Private Friends in Low Places

[Jonah]

When Jonah last descended upon New Cov, it was alongside beings who could hardly be described as human.

The planet was home to a number of domed cities - and there was a vicious Sith Lord who wanted to bring each of them to their knees. His reasons were his own and Jonah didn't much care about the motivations. What did drive him to join the assaulting force then was finite, monetary gain. The Sith had promised any mercenaries who came along the run of the domed cities, and this was an opportunity that Jonah and his partner just couldn't pass up. At the time, the two were just beginning to explore their partnership. They were thinking small but dreaming big.

So it was that they robbed a bank amidst the chaos and left before the toxins could be unleashed upon the population. Jonah did not think much of the city, its people, or the corporation that had been targeted until much later. Several months in the future, he and his partner had begun to think big and to dream even bigger. Together, they had seen a criminal syndicate come under new management. And through this, their perspective about the mission to New Cov changed.

Jonah decided to pay the planet a little visit. In the hopes of, ideally, walking away with a new ally. It was oh so hard to protect one's holdings nowadays. So difficult to face down the ambitions of rampant Sith and nation alike. But, if one was offered security? Would they leap at the opportunity? Would they be skeptical? The Underlord of the Haxion Brood was hoping to find out. Thus, Jonah touched down in the commercial district of New Cov's capital city. This time, he had made an appointment and was expected by the woman of the hour.

He was searched for weapons, vetted, and escorted via turbolift into the offices of one Liin Terallo . And as the turbolift rose, he was afforded an unparalleled view of the domed city. There had been damage done, quite a bit in fact, but the citizenry were bouncing back. There was construction everywhere and, what appeared to be, hazmat teams addressing some concerning stains on some of the architecture. But in all, the capital was healing. This was good. But could they bounce back again next time? And the time after that?

When the lift doors parted, the office staff were greeted by a Jonah who had abandoned his typical trenchcoat + body armor combination. In its place was a finely tailored suit. The only thing which remained ever-present, no matter how he dressed, were the sunglasses. He gave them a brief adjustment before striding confidently forward. The receptionist, a young woman, buzzed him in. Soon, Jonah would be face-to-face with the one who had stared down a Sith Lord's ire.

"Greetings," he began, "thank you for meeting with me."

Tag: Liin Terallo

 

[Liin Terallo]

It has been a few months since the devastating attack on Ilic City. However, we are very lucky that such an attack only transpired within the Capital City's dome. For if it had happened in each of the domed cities, the tragic losses would have been far greater. Perhaps this is but a test for New Cov to navigate the turbulent waters of the Galaxy's current state of being.

Reconstruction of Ilic's damaged neighborhoods has begun. Although the mental and emotional damages will take far longer to heal. Some of the citizenry were abducted by Darth Nefaron and his monsters. I only hope that they will be found and returned home. But of that I cannot be certain. I do not know where they would have gone. I have no spies or contacts within his organization, and so for the moment my efforts have reached an impasse.

A part of the outside jungle was also raided with some of the flora and fauna removed. I could say that they were 'harvested', but the invaders did not know what they were doing; and so a section of the jungle was merely collected. The biomolecules were what the invaders were after; yet without a raw sample from our labs, their collection is worthless. This is why Nefaron demanded access to our labs and vials containing isolated samples. But those were not given. We have protocols to follow during such attacks to protect our resources above all else, and those protocols were followed to the letter.

Life carries on, however. I am doing my best to recover from this incident, and as such meetings on New Cov will be far and few between. More often than not, I will attend meetings elsewhere in the Galaxy. Until there is such a time that safety and security returns to New Cov, this will become the norm.

I sip my wine, if only to keep any nerves from rising up as I am to attend my first meeting in my office since the attack. Already my guest had arrived within the building and I know that it will not be long until he is at my door. I have a few spare moments given that I know that he is to be checked for any risk to both myself and to New Cov before he is to even reach my office. And it is in those spare moments that I set down my wine, check my reflection in the mirror to be sure that my appearance is the very best. I also collect my feathered fan which hides a small dagger within the handle. Darth Malum of House Marr had given me a self defense lesson upon which I had surprised us both with my ability to protect myself with such a weapon. I will rely on this dagger, if need be.

And as if on cue, my guest arrives to my office. While I move to greet him, I take in his suit which I find to be very agreeable attire for such a meeting. There are some others that have come in the past dressed as though they were going into battle, which I can confess is not an entirely untrue scenario. Although the battlefield here is more or less on paper.

"Welcome to New Cov, Mister Jonah. I hope that your journey here has been an easy one. Can I offer you any refreshments before we begin?" The attack has not changed my duties as host, afterall. And I expect that any future attack never will. I cannot reveal to anyone outside of myself of the nightmares that occur to me on some nights. Fortunately there are products available that hide any losses of sleep. And for that I am extremely grateful.

Tag: Jonah

 

[Jonah]

This was the first time he looked the Terallo in the eye.

During the assault, the Sith Lord's "persuasive" attempts upon the woman were all but broadcast for everyone to hear. Being put in such a situation was enough to break most. In fact, when Jonah thought back to his secondary home on Nar Shaddaa, people fell to pieces for less. Not so was the case for the woman seated before him. Despite everything, she had managed to see her city on the road to recovery. And though he had no clue what was going on inside her mind, he could see enough that she didn't quit.

Why? Because she was sitting here in front of him.

That much was enough to garner some respect on Jonah's part. Thus, he offered a light, professional smile as she greeted him. Mister Jonah was a nice touch. Not many people in his neck of the woods would think to even refer to him as Mister. "Thank you for your hospitality, Miss Terallo," he began, raising his dominant hand. "Agreeing to see me is all the refreshment I need."

Jonah joined Liin at her desk and offered his hand in greeting. He'd linger, waiting to see if she'd accept the gesture, before sitting down. Once settled, he'd continue. "Time is an expensive commodity. So, I will endeavor to make the most of each second you afford me."

"In recent history, your world was dealt a grievous blow. One that, I can see, you are well recovering from. My hope is that our conversation today will see to it that New Cov has ample support should such an attack happen in the future." Jonah leaned back in the seat ever so slightly. His gaze was squarely fixed upon hers, attempting to see how she'd respond to this. "I represent an organization that is familiar with tragedies such as these. We know where to look to see them coming. We know what strings to pull in order to mitigate - or even prevent - them from occurring."

"Is this something you have need of?"

Tag: Liin Terallo

 

[Liin Terallo]

There are always two types of people. Those that accept refreshments and those that decline. I take no offence at any that turn down my offer, for it is but an insight into the personality of who I am meeting with. Declining such an offer is for a few reasons that I can surmise; one being that they never take food or drink from strangers, another being that they had eaten beforehand and were unprepared for such hospitality, and thirdly that it had to do with their diet. I am unsure as to which category my guest falls under, but by meeting's end I should have it all figured out.

I return the polite smile in kind with a well practiced smile of my own, followed by a polite dip of my head and gesture for him to accompany me to my desk. "You are most welcome. Let us hope that today's discussion meets your expectations." I am delighted to see the offered handshake once we are in our proper places and I slip my hand into his own. Such a polite gesture again allows me the chance to study my guest. His hand is a near opposite of my own softness, yet not in such a way that it is too rough. His line of work is sure to be far more physical than mine.

Releasing his hand afterwards, I graciously take my seat. As always my posture is perfectly straight, yet never stiffly so. His own posture is far more relaxed than I could ever present. Yet that seems to be the norm outside of Covie society.

I cannot help but lower my head ever so slightly as my guest brings up the recent attack on my city. In truth most off worlders have never even heard of New Cov; let alone about anything that happens here. It makes me wonder if those horrible broadcasts demanding my surrender had been released elsewhere. And if they had; what light do they paint the protocols upon which I had followed to secure our secrets and our livelyhood? From what I have gathered and from what I can see of his eyes through the shades that he wears; that perception of me might not be as harsh as I have feared. A good reputation leads to good business afterall.

"It pains me to hear that such events are so common place in the Galaxy that they would become familiar to any organization at all. As you can well guess, New Cov has been sheltered from war for a long time. So we were a little...unprepared for the situation brought to our doors." A bit of an understatement, perhaps. However, the protocols in place ensured our success in retaining our independence. "What organization do you represent, Mister Jonah? A security firm with a vast spy network within circles of influence?" I know that I'm not directly answering his question. But that will surely come in time.

Tag: Jonah

 

[Jonah]

The woman's touch was as Jonah had anticipated: soft, yet firm.

From this modest gesture, he wondered if how she conducted business was identical. Was she the sort to present an agreeable face, yet move resolutely in the direction of her choosing? Or was she something else entirely? Given that New Cov still stood, he doubted that she was a pushover. Thus, he wouldn't go the route of intimidation or anything else on the negative side of things. Rather, he would present the Brood as being beneficial. Something that she and her people would need both now and in the future.

Once they were seated, Jonah nodded quietly as she responded. It was indeed the reality of late that worlds that had nothing to do with the major powers were being caught in the crossfire. In Jonah's brief time in the Galaxy proper, he visited a border world that had been razed by the Empire - for no other crime than refusing to join them. It was a needless slaughter by all accounts, but was a reflection of the times. But, in the ashes of such devastation rose opportunities.

"It is times like these that allow organizations such as mine to exist. If peace was the common goal of the Galaxy, we would be out of a job." Jonah chuckled lightly at the thought. "However, as larger entities see their ambitions run rampant, chaos is the result. New Cov has enjoyed peace for quite awhile, but it is only a matter of time before another Nefaron, or Empire, or even 'benevolent Jedi', comes knocking at your door."

He straightened in his seat ever so slightly. "So, to answer your question, the organization I represent is called Haxion Brood." Jonah allowed the name to linger in the air for a moment. Their syndicate was not as infamous as the Black Sun or the Hutt Cartel, but their existence had been in place for centuries. Perhaps she had heard of them. Perhaps not. Nonetheless, Jonah continued. "We are a syndicate that lives in the chaos of the modern era. You could say that we are a security firm with a vast spy network - as the results will be the same. But how we go about it is...different than what you'd expect."

He motioned towards the window behind her - towards the domed city that was under reconstruction. "Within every shining civilization, there is an underbelly that we don't talk about in polite company. Men, down on their luck, who do things in ways most don't condone. From the mightiest empire to a world simply trying to maintain freedom, these underbellies exist. It is here that we listen. It is here that we learn of the storms that are coming, and can provide you the precious notice required to keep your world and corporation free."

Jonah then motioned towards the woman with his dominant hand. "I realize that the nature of our organization may not be your desired taste - but in the world we live in, bedfellows are strange, are they not?"

Tag: Liin Terallo

 

[Liin Terallo]

Peace is not as profitable as war. I know that very well. Despite not having conflicts within our borders, NCBC profited from conflicts elsewhere. Our biomolecules are used in everything from medicine, to weapons, to armor and to ship manufacturing; most of which would be a much smaller market if there were no conflicts. And we have many contracts with smaller governments and companies that no doubt use our biomolecules to aid in those conflicts.

Fortunately no Empires of any kind had come to New Cov. There were some Jedi that lived in a temple within the jungle, but for the most part they remain away from the domed cities and keep to themselves. I am glad that their presence has not brought their enemies to our doorstep. We don't need their wars to destroy the jungles that are ever so important to New Cov's economy and way of life.

My guest reveals the name of his organization and although it sounds familiar, I cannot remember the details. It was more than likely a footnote in my history lessons which I shall research later on. Despite the name, I cannot presume that it is the same organization within those history lessons. Afterall, there have been how many different iterations of Empires in recent memory? So if I am to discover a foul history, I cannot in good conscience hold it against the gentleman before me.

Yet I will not allow myself to be naive to it either.

"Receiving ample notice of any actions planned against New Cov would be very well received. There are protocols to be followed in the event of such an attack and this most recent tragedy was a bit too close to call." I barely made it out enough to escape capture. For if I was taken, then our secrets could potentially be compromised. This tidbit of information I do not reveal. Afterall, why bring up our shortcomings? "I cannot expect that all avenues to obtain such information would be pure of intent. I am aware that the Galaxy is not black and white, but more so various shades of grey."

I study him further as I bring my hands up onto my desk and fold the fingers together. "So your organization would provide us with intel of any forthcoming attacks, and even thwart them before they reach this sector? It might not generate much business for you given that we have no formal enemies. The only enemy of note is Nefaron and as far a we can tell, he has disappeared for now. So I am made to wonder, what is the price that you seek for these services that may so rarely be used?" There is always a price. No organization would offer such services out of the goodness of their hearts. Not even those that insist that they are the 'good guys'.

Tag: Jonah

 

[Jonah]

What was the price indeed?

Jonah nodded along as the businesswoman tented her fingers before her. The picture she painted was simple: outside of the Sith Lord who had targeted New Cov, there were no declared enemies of the world or the corporation. For the moment, the toxin-spewing aggressor had returned to the shadows - but Jonah knew well enough that the Sith had not fallen during his assault on the planet. What's more, having stood among their kind during the most recent Kaggath, Jonah understood that there were hundreds of people just like Nefaron.

It was only a matter of time before one of them set their sights on the company once more. "You speak of rarity, however, I would rather you have the security of not having to take up arms to defend New Cov rather than being caught unawares. Countering potential assaults manifests in many forms. Specifically, we'd work to thwart even the idea of placing your people in the crosshairs." Whether it be by bribery, waving alternative targets, assassinations, or otherwise - the Brood had many tools at its disposal for making sure those who were looking at New Cov didn't.

"But to answer your question, the price is simple: join us."

Once more, Jonah allowed the weight of his words to linger in the air before continuing. "Ours is an operation that does not boldly proclaim who is flying our colors and why. However, as a part of the syndicate, you would be entitled to the same privileges and protection as anyone. We'd ask your support in ventures that we pursue as a whole, we'd share assets and knowledge to a degree that would work for us both, and if a storm came for you it would be coming for us."

There were many more details that go over, should she even be interested in entertaining the notion of joining Haxion Brood. But, for now, Jonah shared a broad picture.

Tag: Liin Terallo

 

[Liin Terallo]

Such preventative measures would be ideal. It could better ensure that such an attack and siege on Ilic City or any other location on New Cov might never happen again so long as I remain in my position as Director. The feeling of peace that we had grown accustomed to in our centralized location of the Galaxy might very well be restored. And I could perhaps regain a steady routine of a proper night's sleep.

He gives his response to my question. And that is to join them? Join the Haxion Brood?

My eyebrows lift in surprise before I could stop them. That answer was certainly the very least that I was expecting. In actual fact, the idea of it hadn't crossed my mind at all. At the very least I had assumed that there'd be some monetary payment required, or even so much as a portion of our biomolecule harvest. My wildest imaginings would have me believe that he wanted a seat on NCBC's Board. But it turns out that I was completely wrong.

I can feel the weight of his pause, even as I compose myself once more. This is exactly the response that he was expecting of me, I'm sure of it! And so I respectfully allow him to continue. He speaks as though he was inviting me personally, yet it is New Cov's safety and prosperity that is the utmost paramount to me and it is them that he suggest his organization protects.

"Mister Jonah," I start before giving a momentary pause. There is something about him that I am certain he is unaware of that I know of. "I must confess that I had expected the price to be that more credits for your coffers be given on top of what you had already stolen from one of our city banks. Yes, I am aware that it was you that had commited the crime. Images from the security footage of you and your companion had been shared with me. However unlike the actions of many of the other monsters that terrorized the Covie, you had treated the frightened tellers far differently. And that is why, despite the objections of some of my staff, I had agreed to allow for this meeting."

I maintain my focus solely on him, trying to see past the shades that for the most part hide his eyes. There are so many more questions that I have for him, yet not seeing his eyes clearly doesn't make it easy for me to see how he reacts to my words.

"Now does this invitation to be a part of your syndicate extend beyond myself and to NCBC as a whole? Or is it an invitation solely for me? There is no guarantee that I will continue to hold my position as Head Director until the end of my days. I am at the mercy of the votes of the other members of the Board. So what would happen with my involvement in your organization if I were voted out of my position or worse, out of the Board itself? Would another take my place? If I am to accept your invitation I need to know more about the consequences and the benefits should there be any more other than what you have already proclaimed."

Tag: Jonah

 

[Jonah]

Jonah had anticipated that the businesswoman would be taken aback by his "price." After all, it wasn't everyday that the cost for the benefits he offered were literally a membership. Other organizations would have required an extensive fee, or access to her corporation's technology. However, in Jonah's case, the price was simple: her.

It was heartening to know that the businesswoman did not immediately leap into bed with just anyone. She carefully considered her response amidst a pause, before uttering his name. Of course, what Miss Terallo brought up was the elephant in the room: Jonah's own part in the assault on New Cov. He didn't know if this would be brought up or not, but nodded slightly when she pointed out that he treated the denizens differently.

"I can only hope that they made it out in one piece." he said simply. Jonah then continued to listen to her concerns. Upon hearing her request for clarification, the man simply motioned towards her with his dominant hand. "The invitation is for you. We recognize that, like many corporations, you are at the mercy of your board. And we are happy to maintain appearances so that your position is not threatened by associating with us. For example, our presence could be written off as mercenary services. Our warnings as whistleblowers, et. cetera."

Jonah paused in order to remove his sunglasses. In doing so, he set his amber eyes upon hers in a piercing stare. "If you were replaced, you would still have a home in the Brood. You are the one who evaded Nefaron and guided your world's reconstruction. You are the one steering the ship in this bold new age. If you were no longer a part of your corporation, you would still be a brilliant individual with exceptional talents. And, you'd still have our backing."

Tag: Liin Terallo

 

[Liin Terallo]

I dip my head to acknowledge to him that the tellers did indeed make it out in one piece. And they had not been abducted like some had, which is even more fortunate for them. Others were not so lucky.

And it is my understanding that all of what is being said here today will not be shared with any others. Parts of it may be, such as the promise of intelligence relating towards any possible future attacks on New Cov. But everything else? This will be my secret to bear. It is most fortunate that I have none courting my favor for Mister Jonah to worry about me sharing the details with. Not even any of my personal staff will hear of it.

His shades are removed and it is now that I see him fully. His gaze is strong and confident. Yet therein lies a hidden danger as well. I can see a faint glow coming from them. My eyes hold his gaze, yet at the same time I work on devising a way for me to test out my Covines Ring on him. I can only assume that if I were to cup his hand in mine in a darkened space, I would more than likely see the jeweled ring glow. I will safe that for another time, however.

I cannot help but feel a little flattered by his words. Following protocol during the attack had somehow made me an exceptional candidate in his eyes. I would assume that any other Director in my place would do the same thing, yet there are a couple of members of the Board that I know for certain would not. They'd of surrendered themselves and the Covie's freedom would be lost.

"You are too kind, Mister Jonah. You have the talents of a pure politician. I could say that your talents are being wasted, but if your organization is what you make it out to be, then I would be wrong. Now you have pointed out the benefits of membership in said organization. What are the downsides? I know that there is more than what you're offering on a silver platter." There has to be downsides. There just has to be! His syndicate wouldn't be a secret otherwise. There has to be a very good reason for it.

Tag: Jonah

 

[Jonah]

The businesswoman's response caused Jonah to smile ever so slightly.

Her compliment about his 'political' talents tickled him admittedly. Given how his father had practically wrapped the Galaxy around his finger for a number of years, it seemed the fruit didn't fall far from the tree. However, unlike "dear old Dad", Jonah's ambitions didn't involve bringing countless worlds under his command. He was far more subtle. He wanted to create a system that lasted far beyond his own life. A system that would allow he and his fellows to have influence across the stars. That system was Haxion Brood.

And if all went well, Miss Terallo would be apart of it.

Of course, she wouldn't seated where she was if she didn't look at everything from every perspective. It was great to know the benefits of joining the syndicate. It was great to know the specifics of the offer - and should she accept, the finer details. But, before signing on any dotted line, drawbacks had to be considered. So it was that the businesswoman inquired and Jonah intended to answer honestly. He paused, taking a moment to return his sunglasses to his face.

"You speak truly, so I will answer truly." he began, "The downsides are tied to the very nature of where we do business. Our hands are the furthest thing from clean. Some of our midst smuggle narcotics and weapons. Others engage in piracy - whether contracted or otherwise. The list goes on. Were it discovered that you joined a syndicate of this nature, it may be a blemish on your career. Hence why we offer to keep things quiet so that your life isn't adversely affected."

To put it simply, in the eyes of most civilizations, they were criminals. Criminals who could benefit the woman seated before Jonah, but criminals nonetheless.

Tag: Liin Terallo

 

[Liin Terallo]

The removal of his shades had been only for a moment, yet it was enough for me to see him a little more clearly. How many others were given the opportunity? Very few, I can imagine.

I take in his words revealing what could be the only downside. However a part of me insists that there are more downsides hidden beneath the surface. Or perhaps it is a reaction from the trauma I recently endured.

Regardless, I had to think not of myself, but of New Cov. To protect it from another such attack is something that I could not easily turn down. Most especially that in doing so our way of life is preserved. Further to that, there may very well be an added bonus that my guest had not given voice to just yet. And so I must do so instead. "If I am to accept your offer, is there a possibility that the Covie abducted by Nefaron could be found and returned home?" Even though some of them might of been tortured and killed, it would only be fair that their remains be brought home. That is what I would want to happen to my body if I was in their position. And despite following protocols, it still pains me that any Covie were abducted at all. It is a guilt that I have not been able to fully shake.

This is my final question that I will pose for him before I make my decision. Of that I know.

Tag: Jonah

 

[Jonah]

The question truly illustrated what motivated the businesswoman as an individual - and thus why her joining was even a possibility. She cared deeply about this world and its people. She was not the average corporate entity who desired only to see their bank account skyrocket.

Thus, there was no benefit on Jonah's part to be dishonest when it came to this question. During the assault by the Sith Lord, citizens had been kidnapped and whisked away to parts unknown. Given the nature of the man responsible, Jonah doubted that the people who were abducted were even alive at this point. And if they were? Would they even be considered people? Or would the be monstrosities of flesh like his henchmen?

Jonah exhaled and answered. "Well, let's set expectations. Is it possible that they be found? Yes. Picking up the trail and determining what happened to your people is certainly within the realm of possibility. Returning them is where things get complicated. Given the nature of who we're dealing with, if your people aren't already dead then there's a chance they are no longer human. That being said, if a member of the Brood wanted to pursue this road, then we'd pursue it."

The man offered a smile. It was light and reassuring. The odds were stacked against them in this regard, but nothing was impossible. Especially not for the Brood.

Tag: Liin Terallo

 

[Liin Terallo]

"No longer human. That is a terrifying thought even worse than being killed. I saw some of those monsters that Nefaron brought with him. No doubt they too had also been taken against their will..." Would I of also suffered the same fate if they had managed to catch me? No. For it was my life that Nefaron demanded that I give him. I am certain that if he had gained access to our labs through me, my life would be brutally snuffed out shortly thereafter for all to see. I almost shudder at the thought yet I cannot allow my guest to see that.

I give myself a moment's pause as I go over the pros and cons of his offer once again in my mind. It is perhaps impolite to maintain such silence during this meeting, yet I am encouraged by the belief that he knows exactly what is on my mind. The fact that he doesn't press me for a snap decision speaks volumes of his character. Although I would hate to see him in a sour mood.

So, there it is then. In my mind I had made my decision which was solely reached on the basis that our recent history will not be repeated.

I unfold my hands and rise to my feet, extending one of my hands to his for a shake. "I accept your offer, Mister Jonah, for reasons that I'm sure you can surmise. May New Cov continue to thrive and uphold it's way of life for many years to come."

Tag: Jonah

 

[Jonah]

Jonah offered a grim nod at her words. He had the distinct displeasure of seeing the monstrosities up close and personal. If there was anything remotely human left within the creatures, Jonah certainly couldn't tell. However, sparing thoughts about the minions of Nefaron wasn't the entire focus of the conversation. If the businesswoman wished it, they would walk that path.

But only after she agreed to stand with the Brood.

She took some time to mull it over and Jonah patiently waited. He would have completely understood if she asked for more time to think things through and scheduled a follow-up. Yet, she rose to her feet and extended her hand. Jonah rose in turn, returning the gesture. Her words caused a bright grin to form on the man's face as he rendered a firm shake. "Well met Miss Terallo. We'll do our best not to disappoint."

When Jonah released the woman's hand from his grasp, he reached for the inner pocket of his coat. There, he produced a rather interesting item. It appeared as little more than a playing card. One with a jester printed on its face, specifically. "This contains the coordinates to our headquarters." he began. "When you are ready, come by and I will provide you with a thorough orientation. We have much to discuss about the future - but I'd prefer to do so where we can both speak freely."

After providing some pleasantries, Jonah would take his leave shortly thereafter. The card, if scanned by a navigational computer, would provide coordinates for the Polis Massa asteroid field. On paper, the destination would seem quite random - but arrival would reveal a base situated upon the surface of one of the many rocks. This is where the Brood laid their heads. This is where the next chapter of Liin's story would begin.

Tag: Liin Terallo

 

[Liin Terallo]

It didn't take a psychic to know that he'd be happy with my decision, yet the appreciation written on his features was wonderful to see. Inspiration is one of the best feelings in the world. It brings hope and joy. And I can tell that it was inspiration for a brighter future for his organization that brought him to me today.

A playing card was not what I expected to receive, however. I take it in hand and flip it over, studying the logo of the jester. Is this some kind of calling card for them? I'm sure that I'll learn of that soon enough. "Thank you, Mister Jonah. I look forward to our next meeting. Until that time comes; safe travels." I escorted him out of my office, as is customary and then closed the door behind him, all the while the playing card remains in my hand. I certainly hope that this choice of mine is a good one.

It is a couple of standard weeks later that I am able to follow the co-ordinates given. My travels recently has taken me to quite a few meetings with other corporate heads that are concerned over new laws being drawn and enforced by one of the larger Empires fighting for dominance over the Galaxy. New contracts are being made and New Cov will soon find some of it's assets secured, new business and research with our biomolecules, and a bolstering of our defence forces. All of these are key to our survival in the times ahead.

This venture too is a part of it. And as my small diplomatic vessel arrives at the rock's base, my security team does well to remember the rules that I had set in place. And that is that they are to remain at my ship. I am adamant in my stance that I am to enter the base alone and as their Director, it is crucial that they obey. Afterall it isn't as though I am attending some negotiation with a terrorist. Mister Jonah is an ally.

I put in some last finishing touches on my appearance; adding a jeweled clip into my wavy hair. My gown sparkles, matching that of the jewels. My feathered fan with the dagger hidden within the handle is also present. How long this visit is to be, I am uncertain. But there is plenty of supplies and clothing for me here within my ship should the visit be longer than a day. I am not sure of how thorough this orientation will be, nor did I even ask. Yet it will be worth it, this much I know.

I walk down the ramp soon after it was lowered for me and look for my host. Instead of spotting him, my eyes are drawn to the security detail standing in wait. In truth I only half expected to see them. A part of me considered that he'd of been so bold to greet me without them. Yet this could be part of the orientation that I was told would take place.

Standing firm at the bottom of my ship's ramp, I raise my voice to them and declare my identity. "I am Director Liin Terallo here to see Mister Jonah. Please inform him of my arrival." Whilst one of my hands brandishes my feathered fan, the other holds the playing card at my fingertips. If anything I treat it as though it was an invitation like one would expect from a formal ball. Although I hardly expect there to be any dancing today.

Tag: Jonah

 

[Jonah]

It was not until several weeks had passed that the Director made her appearance at Ordo Eris. Her vessel docked without incident, causing the local security team to greet her upon disembarking. They sought what she brandished before them: the playing card which served as an identifier and a set of coordinates to their base. Upon confirming that she was no stranger or adversary, the detail spoke over the comm.

"Boss, got a Director Terallo here for ya." said the lead guard into his earpiece. He then waited, nodding as a reply was uttered. "Got it." he said simply before facing the woman of the hour. "I'll be escorting you to the Observation Deck. Underlord Jonah will meet you there."

From there, the armored guard led the way into an adjoining turbolift. The ride up would occur in silence, as the man wasn't getting paid for idle chatter with new contacts. However, the ride would be fruitful in one aspect. As the lift ascended, through the glass, Liin would be afforded a great view of the facility. From the fighting pits brimming with competition, to the bustling watering hole filled with patrons, to the armory where weapons were being manufactured. Ordo Eris was alive and active - and soon, she could call it home.

After a few moments, the lift doors gave way to a more serene locale. This space was much quieter and was characterized by the sound of gently running water. A large pool was on the left, illuminated from the bottom. On the right was a garden, complete with a gazebo beside a marble fountain. There were polished droids wandering the space, bearing bottles of wine and other gilded beverages. The guard motioned towards the gazebo before returning to the lift. "Boss will meet you there. Enjoy your stay."

Woosh. The doors slid closed.

Liin wouldn't have to wait to be received, however, as Jonah had been eyeing the lift since receiving the message. Dressed almost identically to their first meeting, the Underlord strode confidently towards his esteemed guest. As her form graced his eyes, the man smiled. "Director, I'm glad you made it safely. Welcome to Ordo Eris!" he began. He then turned and offered her his arm. "We have much to discuss. Shall we?"

Tag: Liin Terallo

 

[Liin Terallo]

Underlord? Is that his preferred title? I keep that in mind as I dip my head in thanks and slip the playing card within a pocket hidden in a fold of my dress. At least the security team is well mannered.

I follow the guard into the lift. It surprises me that the walls within it are clear. And as we rise through the many floors, I cannot help but notice all of the various sights. Each floor was completely different than the rest; and there were some that I was sure that I would not be venturing in. Or at the very least, I could hardly believe myself to be visiting there very often.

I appreciate the silence. Guards that are quiet are what I am used to. Silence is not an uncomfortable thing for me. At times it can be a blessing. Most especially when one is around a lot of people for multiple hours at a time.

The lift doors open and my eyes are greeted with a pleasant sight. The observation deck is rather beautiful and it reminds me of my family's vacation house on the other side of New Cov. I am rather fond of gardens for they inspire my paintings. Although, I had not lifted a brush in quite some time. Duty trumps a hobby. Always.

My host soon steps into view. I offer him a polite smile and bow of my head. It seems that now the tables have turned. Now he is the host and I am the guest. And thus far he is proving himself to be a pleasant enough host.

I take his arm, cradling it within the crook of my elbow. "Thank you for having me, Underlord Jonah. I came as soon as I was able. I do hope that the wait was not too long." Great distances are not so easily travelled when one wasn't within a Star Destroyer or other vessels of similar size that can carry large quantities of fuel. But in due course I may have my own vessel of a similar size some day.

I walk with my host towards the gazebo, allowing my gaze to take everything in. "Your garden is very beautiful. it adds a touch of grace and serenity to an otherwise bustling and dark establishment."

Tag: Jonah

 

[Jonah]

"The pleasure is mine." began the sable-skinned man. "The wait was perfectly acceptable. After all, you have a business to run."

As the pair advanced towards the Gazebo, the Director commented on the aesthetic. Jonah smiled, offering a light nod of gratitude. "You are too kind. The garden was a recent addition. Something for those of us who appreciate the quiet."

While Jonah was no stranger to noise, it was nice to have a reprieve every once in a while. Each night did not have to be a reflection of Nar Shaddaa when residing aboard the station. Soon, the pair were within the gazebo and Jonah led Liin to the bench. He'd wait for her to sit before taking his place beside her. "You must have no end of questions, so before I begin prattling on about everything Brood, are there any that you'd like answered now?"

Otherwise, the man was likely to vomit words for quite a few moments uninterrupted.

Tag: Liin Terallo

 

[Liin Terallo]

Both a business and a planet to run is surely what he really means. Mister Jonah is well aware of this fact, yet perhaps he is keeping it quiet in case of anyone listening that could take advantage of such a thing.

I take my seat on the bench, turning at an angle towards him, all the while maintaining my perfectly poised posture. For some it might seem stiff and uncomfortable, yet for me it is very comfortable indeed. I had never gained the habit of slouching. My ankles are crossed and slipped underneath the bench. My feathered fan is placed onto my lap, which provides a convenient and soft place for me to rest my hands.

"I do have some questions, yes. For instance; how often am I expected to visit here? Are there secure channels for emergenies? Are there any safehouses that can be utilized should I be under threat? Can other members be hired for other purposes? What are the rules that I must abide by? And then finally; is there a ceremony for this orientation?" I can imagine myself and other newcomers being celebrated for their membership as one has in NCBC when one becomes a part of the Board of Directors. Yet how others conduct their own organizations may be entirely different.

"I hope that that is not too many questions for you at once., Underlord Jonah." Mister Jonah has a nice ring to it, but it is not proper to give him a title other than that which he declares.

Tag: Jonah