Private The Needs Of The Young [Matsu Ike]

[Balun Dashiell]

Location: Yamatai Sasori Mobile Station.
Attn: Matsu Ike .

The Nomad, a rugged commercial heavy freighter bearing the scuffs and scarring of many voyages, eased its way into one of the cavernous hangar bays of Yamatai Station—a marvel of engineering crafted by the legendary Saotome Foundry. Towering superstructures arched overhead, gleaming with polished metal and humming with quiet energy, their immensity dwarfing even the largest docked vessels. Within that engineered colossus, Balun Dashiell descended his ship's ramp into the crisp, climate-controlled air of the bay, his steps unhurried, steady. Strapped securely to his chest in a padded harness was the reason for this journey—his young son, Kellan Dashiell , bundled snugly in a soft blanket, tiny eyes blinking sleepily at the vast world around them.

Though once a Jedi-in-training and still sensitive to the Force, Balun no longer carried himself like one. He wore the clothes of a seasoned spacer—well-worn boots, durable work pants, a utility belt heavy with tools and survival gear, and a weathered leather jacket draped over a light shirt. A K-16 Bryar Pistol rode at his right hip, while his lightsaber hung plainly from the left, more a relic of another life than a badge of identity. He had walked many paths—none fully mastered—but fatherhood had become his truest calling. Since Kellan's arrival, everything else had become secondary: the pursuit of the Force, the ambitions of youth, even friendship. What bonds he lacked in companionship were made up for by the quiet, grounding presence of family.

Today's purpose was simple—yet meaningful. Balun had arranged a meeting with Matsu Ike regarding the potential purchase of a Xantha-class Nanny Biot, a creation of Sasori, known for their grace and advanced care capabilities. The arrangement was made ahead of time, but Yamatai Station was vast—more of a floating city than a station—and the moment his boots met the polished floor, he realized he had no idea where to go next.

He paused, eyes scanning the bustling hangar filled with droids, workers, and fellow travellers, none of whom seemed to be awaiting him. If someone had been sent to greet him, they hadn't made themselves known. With a soft sigh and a glance down to ensure Kellan was still peacefully nestled, Balun reached for his datapad. Navigating quickly to the holonet marketplace, he opened a message window and keyed in a short notification to Miss Ike.

Arrived at Hangar Bay 14. Ready when you are.

He sent it, hoping the rest of this meeting would go more smoothly than the arrival.

 

[Matsu Ike]

Balun Dashiell

The station was always moving and always welcoming others. Matsu had returned to it from the main research facilities that they were developing... expanding to make the Jewels of the Ba'lands which were a massive endeavor but... the cost compared to how much they would bring in was easily balanced out... and they would be operating in the green as she got the message. The quantum biots working to relay it and her hand came out as she waited for a split moment. The Iriyas Network device in her hand activating as it set the coordinates with a golden ring.. the smaller hypergate connecting when she stepped through and looked at the man with the baby on his chest.

"Apologies for the wait." She said it and stood there is all of her five foot glory as the silvery outfit shimmered a mixture of robe and dress but it was designed to shimmer and move around easily in. The jedi master clasped her hands behind her back and bowed her head looking at Balun. "I distracted myself with our testing of the newest model Sakuma." She said it and motioned that he could join her in walking while she checked on some of the stations displays. "We can discuss your order in the office or in the lab if you like. We have developed a few advances since we made the nanny biot for your family which could be added in ot some other ideas."

 

[Balun Dashiell]

"Apologies for the wait. I distracted myself with our testing of the newest model Sakuma. We can discuss your order in the office or in the lab if you like. We have developed a few advances since we made the nanny biot for your family which could be added in ot some other ideas."

Balun greeted Matsu Ike with a warm, genuine smile, his expression softening as he dipped his head in a respectful bow. The gesture, though simple, carried with it the quiet reverence of one who still honored the old ways. Within the subtle current of the Force, her presence radiated strength and control—an aura not unlike that of Junko Ike, whom Balun had met previously during the Coruscant Art Show hosted by the High Society Guild. The resemblance in their power was unmistakable, yet uniquely distinct, as if the Force itself whispered their shared lineage.

"No apology needed, Ms. Ike," Balun said with effortless courtesy, lifting his left hand in a small, dismissive wave. His tone was warm, not performative—genuinely understanding. "I'm sure your schedule's demanding, and I really do appreciate you taking the time to meet with me in person. I work in a similar field, so believe me when I say—I get it."

As she turned and began to walk, Balun fell into step beside her without hesitation, Kellan still nestled securely in his harness, quietly taking in the world from his father's chest. The deeper they moved into Yamatai Station, the more awe Balun felt—not just at the scale of it all, but at the refinement, the quiet hum of industry and innovation woven seamlessly together.

"I have to say," Balun continued, glancing around as they passed under high archways and through bustling corridors, "what you've built here is nothing short of extraordinary. Saotome Foundry, Sasori... they're shining examples of what a vision paired with determination can create. People like me—we look at that and hope to follow a similar path."

There was no arrogance in his voice, no pretense—only an honest admiration. Though still new to the business world himself, Balun saw no need to hide that fact. Not here. Not when speaking to someone whose accomplishments spoke for themselves.

 

[Matsu Ike]

Balun Dashiell

She bowed her head to that. "Thank you, we have tried to stick to two things.. preserving and learning from the past and pushing towards the future. This station served to teach us much about scale, the utopian world itself taught us even more and it has culminated in the Ba'lands. A universal station we have built along the force web. The megastructure that was built billions of years ago. We have learned a lot." She said it and there was some pride as continuing forward she pointed out some of the trade and expo halls. Different companies able to show their best things and other who bought areas with factories and drydocks to construct vessels.

"Now you want a customized Xanthe model as I understand it. I imagine much the same way as the previous one made for your family with emphasis on it passing as human being the highest priority." She said it as the walk came to a lift and the doors opening to reveal the elevator as entering the sounds of the station were gone once the doors closed. Large windows showing more of the station with its massaive arms and she pointed. "Our lavenrings, the largest scale industrial duplicators in the galaxy." She said it as they were working and the programmable matter was being shaped into a mirror of a vessel across from it. The larger yacht being built from the superstructure and interior to the outside as the hull formed.

"We have gotten better with that in some cases and have begun to construct the lavenrings into ships themselves. Allowing vessels to self replicate and repair themselves. Good for defensive forces that governments might need as they can save on construction costs." She said it as the lift went up and up coming to a circular room that was filled with displays. A large desk adjusting itself as it shaped seats for them and several biots came out. "You know our Nanny Biot model, our Pet Biot which works to bond with one and help them... also children love how much they can be snuggled. We have several sombat biots designed to protect above all else."

 

[Balun Dashiell]

The soft hum of the lift faded as it came to a smooth stop, its doors parting to reveal a spherical chamber bathed in clean, ambient light. As Balun stepped out alongside Matsu Ike , his eyes were immediately drawn to the graceful figures emerging in a quiet, orderly procession—Biots, their synthetic forms moving with an almost organic fluidity, each one a testament to advanced engineering and careful design.

He took a seat nearby, positioning himself out of the way so as not to disrupt the presentation, and allowed his gaze to follow the line of Xantha-Class Nanny Biots as they entered the room. Sleek, elegant, and eerily lifelike, their presence alone made it clear why Sasori's work commanded such prestige.

Matsu's voice drew his attention again, this time mentioning an alternate line—Biots in pet form, designed as companions and extensions of the Nanny-class. The concept immediately caught his interest, and he leaned forward slightly, eyebrows lifting with intrigue.

"Wonderful," Balun said warmly. "I'll gladly purchase one of those as well. Credits are no concern when it comes to my son's well-being."

He looked down to Kellan, still peacefully asleep in the harness snug against his chest. The sight never failed to stir something quiet and protective within him. Balun's expression softened as he admired the calm, innocent face of his baby boy, his smile lingering for a moment before he returned his attention to Matsu.

"And yes, the impersonation of sentience is important," he added with a small nod. "My father had a... less-than-pleasant history with droids, and let's just say he's set in his ways. I'd rather not stir up unnecessary concern."

A chuckle slipped from him, dry but genuine. The Dashiell family had faced enough complications lately. The last thing he needed was Judah Dashiell lecturing him over perceived risks to his only grandson.

Balun's gaze shifted to the Biots now standing in silent display before them. After a thoughtful pause, he spoke again—this time, his tone more inquisitive.

"Unlike my brother, however, I did want to ask—how do your Biots handle Force-sensitives?"

He leaned back slightly, one arm resting casually over the back of his chair as his eyes swept over the models with growing curiosity.

"Before Kellan, I was the first in our family to show any sensitivity to the Force. It's unfamiliar territory for the Dashiells. No one else can really understand the challenges he may face as he grows… not like I can." His voice lowered slightly, the weight of that reality pressing beneath his words. "So tell me—how do you think your Biots would fare with a child like mine? A budding Force user?"

 

[Matsu Ike]

Balun Dashiell

She gave a small grin to that. "We have a couple of options, we looked at the new generation research the mandalorian scientists were conducting to see how to best clone and cultivate force sensitivity... so we have been able to induce it within some of our biot models. It sounds more technical then it is but the organic agena that functions like a blood holds chloxians which allow a rudimentry connection to the force that can be strengthened.. and from there we have developed biots able to utalize the force and biots able to resist and even track the force. With hybridization we were able to use DNA from force hunting creatures to create biots that will disrupt and alter the natural connection to the force of others."

She said it and didn't push on what had happened to the family patriarch... it was something personal and well unless there was a risk he would attack it and actively try and harm or accidentally activate the protection protocols of the nanny biots... it wasn't a worry and she had known him enough within the CIG to know he was above most reasonable. "We can augment and develop it along the lines that you would like even including our quantum biots for communication virutally from anywhere in the universe that we have been able to develop. They can also be given some of the equipment such as the emergency enclosures which will wrap a bubble shield around an area for additional protection."

 

[Balun Dashiell]

THE NEEDS OF THE YOUNG
Accompanied by Kellan Dashiell
Matsu Ike

"Your Biots can sense and use the Force?" Balun echoed, his voice low with disbelief, his brows lifting in genuine astonishment.

He hadn't anticipated that answer—not even close.

His original question had been posed with far more modest expectations, centered around safety: would the Biots be resistant to the occasional unintentional burst of telekinesis from a Force-sensitive toddler? Could they handle being flung across a room by accident or weather the wild unpredictability of a youngling first discovering their power? What Matsu had revealed instead was something entirely different—something almost beyond comprehension.

The idea that these constructs could not only interact with the Force but actively use it… it was nearly unbelievable.

Balun took a breath, steadying his thoughts before speaking again, his tone now edged with caution.

"If I were to order a model like that," he began carefully, "what assurances would I have that the Biot couldn't access the Dark Side? Or worse—teach my son how to?"

There was no accusation in his voice, only concern—measured, sincere, and heavy with the weight of responsibility. This was unknown territory, and the stakes were painfully real. Were he considering the employment of a living Force-user to help guide or protect Kellan, there would be layers of scrutiny—background checks, philosophical vetting, deep character assessments. Even then, risk would remain. People, after all, were unpredictable. The Force amplified emotion, and emotion could so easily become a pathway to darkness.

And Kellan… Kellan already bore a complicated legacy. Half-Sith spawn, whether anyone chose to say it aloud or not. The bloodline alone was enough to make Balun wary.

His expression softened, conflicted. "I have to admit," he said, almost to himself now, "a Biot with Force knowledge and practical skill would be an incredible advantage in my son's future."

He looked up, gaze distant as the possibilities unraveled in his mind—an image of someone else there, guiding Kellan through the intricacies of the Force, helping him understand what he was, what he could be. Someone who wouldn't look at Balun like he was speaking nonsense, like he was cursed or broken, as some members of his family occasionally did. Someone who understood.

"Even just… being able to talk to someone else about the Force," he added quietly, "without feeling like I'm alone in it."

Then, after a pause, his eyes returned to Matsu. "Where does that knowledge come from? Are the Biots programmed from Jedi sources? Other Force traditions?" His voice carried a mix of hope and guarded curiosity.

If what she said was true, then this—this was no longer just a purchase. It was the beginning of something far more profound.

"Speech".
'Thought'.

 

[Matsu Ike]

Balun Dashiell

She thought about it as one hand interacted with a hardlight interface and a New Generation Biot came out. The sleek uniform covering them as the more life like looks were there. "Hmmm initially accessing the daarkside wouldn't be done. We traain and teach them but they can learn so in theory there would be no limits on them being able to outright learn." She was thinking about it as a potential risk now while she moved but was looking aat it... this wasn't something to be dismissed either and she did have to wonder. "Now their initial programming would have the ethical measures of not harming and the darkside can harm so they might be able to be taught teaching it can cause active harm to another since its use can damage the body and cells."

She said it and another biot walked in as the Iron Maidens Biot was there and it was muscled, impressive and less life like but its stomach had an open section as it stood there. "The Iron Maidens are made for shards, they can function without them but when housing a shaard crystal it allows the shard to utalize their body as an extension of their own with the force similar to the Iron Knights." Then a third came in as the small Choushin Vessel biot moved in and went to the desk. Sitting on it and its long ears flopped around... the black fur of it with a white underbelly... the bunny cat looking thing getting attention as the jedi master looked at it and motioned when it ran towards the window going out a small airlock onto a balcony and jumping while a second Choushin Biot came that had been holding it.

"As to what the biots can do." She said it and the show came as the bunny cat lept from the balcony and moved fast and away... faster and further then even with low gravity while flipping and stretching. Each liimb becoming a point while the body expanded into a bulked hull. "We have developed sub-atomic materials... specifically generaators allowing hyperspatial pockets to be made to hold larger amounts of bulk. The specially made biots can become vessels allowing them to be fully automated and act like personal vessels. It also makes storage much easier aas you can carry it with you or with your assistaant." She indicated the biot standing there with long purple hair and her blank expression. "She is the main interface with the ship allowing it to be much harder to slice."

His other querstion was important while she brought up some information. "They can be given information about any tradition I have studied which is vasdt. From across the galaxy." She brought up some information as it began to file across the screen. entry 2, entry 3, entry 10 with two entries marked in red entry 6 and entry 9. The red ones marked as studies and research into sith and darkside groups. "I have tried to study all aspects some to learn and some to defend against. The darkside can be insidious and some of the darkest groups manipulate and entice rather then outright slaughter as you know." She said it but there was a good deal more to learn. "But there is always more to learn, more to study and teach. My mentor said aa tree dedicated to knowledge should always look like a sapling as there is room to grow."

A smile though played on her lips when she was offering all of it. "A skilled biot trained with the right knowledge they might not be able to utalize aall of it. Mostly it has been minor force capabilities but their ability to store the knowledge would be vast and improved. THey could give all of the advice and all of the information to one that they are teaching or reciting for... to kick off the ideas and the spaark as it were of being able to understand some of the mysteries of the force or what it is able to do."

 

[Balun Dashiell]

THE NEEDS OF THE YOUNG
Accompanied by Kellan Dashiell
Matsu Ike

The options presented by Matsu Ike were nothing short of extraordinary—both impressive and, frankly, a little surreal. Balun had expected advanced models, certainly, but the Choushin Biot in particular defied conventional understanding. Watching the demonstration unfold before his eyes, he witnessed the synthetic being manipulate the space around itself—shifting mass, expanding storage, and even adapting into a transport-capable form.

He didn't fully grasp the technology behind it—dimensional compression, or some other cutting-edge feat of engineering—but witnessing it firsthand silenced any doubts he might have entertained.

"Your Newer Generation Biot and the Choushin model sound perfect," Balun said, nodding in quiet approval. The decision came easily now, as the possibilities these Biots offered settled firmly in his mind.

He allowed himself a small smile as a thought struck him. "I have a pet Merqaal who'll probably get along with the Choushin like a house on fire," he added with a quiet chuckle, the image blooming vividly in his mind—his wide-eyed son watching in delighted awe as the sleek, curious Merqaal darted around the ever-adaptable Biot, the two forming an unlikely pair of companions.

Shifting slightly in his seat, Balun's tone turned more inquisitive. "With regard to augmentations… is there anything specific required to manufacture my order?"

His eyes flicked toward the models on display. Impressive as they were, he assumed these were prototypes or demonstration units—templates, not the final product.

"I'm not entirely sure what kind of customizations I should even be looking for, if I'm honest," he admitted, his voice contemplative. "I've never had much reason to explore this kind of thing before… but now that I have Kellan in my life…"

His voice drifted for a moment, trailing off into the quiet space between thoughts.

Balun had always been mobile—sometimes by necessity, sometimes by choice—and that hadn't changed. There would still be missions, dangers, places he couldn't take his son. And when those moments came, he needed to be certain—absolutely certain—that Kellan was protected. That whoever—or whatever—was left to care for him could be trusted beyond question.

The thought lingered, darker now, unspoken but heavy.

There was always the possibility—no, the threat—that Kellan's mother might come for him someday.

Balun exhaled slowly and met Matsu's gaze again. "Like I said, credits aren't a concern. I'm willing to go all in when it comes to my son's safety," he said, his voice quiet but firm. "So if there are any augmentations, add-ons, or enhancements you'd recommend—even ones not typically listed—I'd be very grateful to hear your thoughts."

This wasn't just a transaction anymore. It was a matter of trust, of legacy, of protection—and Balun wasn't about to take chances.

"Speech".
'Thought'.

 

[Matsu Ike]

Balun Dashiell

"Customizations come down to what you might like or need... or in some cases what there should be. A flawlessly skinned being for instance might raise suspicions. SMall alterations to add imperfections so it adds to the realness factor. Personality quirks outside of the standard programming. The nanny biots are meant to be guardians and protectors and they can monitor the child at all times but if that is all they are doing when in the compaany of others it could alert to something being off. Their having a passing knowledge or conversational skills on certain subjects." She gave him an idea and some options.

"I know one we sold without too many details is able to once their charge is asleep in bed often there to play dejarik with the mother for a few hours to let her wind down after working all day.... and then proceeds to clean up so she can sleep. Laying out clothing for the next day and having a lunch made. Domestic living and needs are a part of it but also small things can add to them such as glasses or non-detrimental quirks others might find endearing." Hopefully it was a better example he could go off of.. it wasn't meant to replace but it was able to do more as having it just stand in the room with the child might eventually be kind of scary at night.

 

[Balun Dashiell]

THE NEEDS OF THE YOUNG
Accompanied by Kellan Dashiell
Matsu Ike

"Physical appearance isn't a priority for me," Balun said, his voice calm and sincere as he considered the vision he had in mind. "I'm not looking for perfection. Human, Iridonian, Twi'lek, Kiffar—whichever races you have available, I'm open to. What matters to me is personality. The kind of person they are, or in this case… the kind of person they feel like."

He paused, eyes distant for a moment before continuing. "I want someone with integrity. Kind. Compassionate. Non-judgmental. But also grounded—law-abiding. Someone who can set a good example for my son, the same way I intend to. Not just a caregiver, but a presence he can learn from."

There was something deeply personal in his tone now, a quiet resolve shaped by a father's hope.

"Education," he added after a thoughtful breath, "might become important down the line too. If Kellan struggles in public schooling or doesn't adjust well, I'd like the Biot to be capable of teaching him at home. Ideally, we won't have to rely on that, but having the option—it offers peace of mind. Even just helping with his homework, staying involved quietly in the background... that could make all the difference."

He shifted in his seat, glancing briefly down at the slumbering form of Kellan nestled in his harness. The child's breathing was slow, peaceful, oblivious to the intricacies of the future being carefully laid out on his behalf.

"I'd also like the Biot to encourage Kellan to embrace my side of the family," Balun said after a pause. "The Dashiells… we're who he has now. His mother is no longer in his life. My family will play a huge part in his upbringing, and I want the Biot to actively foster those relationships. To bond with them—earn their trust, build friendships. I want it to feel real, to everyone."

His voice dropped just slightly, quieter, more personal. "There should be no doubt in anyone's mind that it is anything less than sentient."

A faint smile tugged at the corner of his lips as he added, "The Choushin Biot can be seen as its pet. Let them play that role publicly if needed. In private, of course, I'll oversee everything. But for the sake of appearances—and for Kellan—it's important they blend in."

A new thought crossed his mind, and he let out a quiet hum of consideration.

"Domestic services would be a huge help, too," he said, a touch of amusement in his tone now. "Cleaning, organizing—anything that can be handled in the background while Kellan's needs are being met. I won't pretend I won't appreciate coming home to a tidy space after work and a long day with him."

He gave a small laugh, the weariness of fatherhood softened by affection. "It would give me a little breathing room. A few more moments of rest. Maybe even a chance to just… be with him without feeling like I'm running on fumes."

"Speech".
'Thought'.

 

[Matsu Ike]

Balun Dashiell

"There is a lot of that which can be done, fostering relationships yes, helping and being almost unconscious of it while being the most realistic. Helping out is easily done... There will be safety overrides in case of problems which shouldn't be present but emotional bonding can be... interesting at times." She said it and pulled up the design. "I give you the Dashiell Caretaker Droid model biot." She said it and it was a moutful but it covered what he wanted and would be able to do. "The looks will be whaat works for you. We have the options while it is being grown and programmed as well as we have it with the latest in our technologies. Doorsteppers, will allow it to preform a gateless hyperspaatial relocation to set coordinates in the event of danger and it will be able to take its charge. As well as the Iota armory which uses pocket dimensions to store its weapons for safety so it can use several option in case of a danger."

 

[Balun Dashiell]

THE NEEDS OF THE YOUNG
Accompanied by Kellan Dashiell
Matsu Ike

Balun's brows rose with visible surprise—and a hint of delight—at the mention of a Dashiell Caretaker Biot. The title alone brought a smile to his face, warm with approval. A custom model, tailored to the unique needs of his son and family. That was more than he'd expected, and far more than he'd thought to ask for. It was clear that Matsu Ike had listened closely, and her attentiveness to his concerns left him deeply appreciative.

"That sounds perfect, Miss Ike," he said, his tone earnest as his smile lingered. "Thank you kindly. If you could forward me the invoice, I'll arrange full payment immediately."

There would be no delays, no back-and-forth over credits. Balun was more than capable of handling the cost—his growing success with Dashiell Retrofit™ had afforded him that freedom. And while the trust fund left by his family remained untouched, safeguarded for Kellan's future, the resources he'd earned on his own were more than enough to invest in the one thing that mattered most: his son's well-being.

He glanced toward her once more, tilting his head slightly. "I suppose that concludes our business then?" The question was rhetorical, spoken more from politeness than uncertainty. He didn't wish to seem abrupt or dismissive by simply departing.

"It's been a pleasure working with Sasori," he added sincerely. "This was my first transaction with your company, but I've certainly heard of your accomplishments through the corporate channels. The reputation is well-earned."

Balun hesitated briefly before offering one final thought, adjusting Kellan's harness as he prepared to stand.

"My company—Dashiell Retrofit™—is still relatively small, but growing steadily. We specialize in salvaging, refitting, and manufacturing starships and tech systems. We're based in orbit of Kesh, at our orbital foundry. Should you ever have an interest in collaborative efforts or custom retrofitting for Sasori projects, I'd be more than happy to open that conversation."

With that, he rose to his feet, careful not to disturb the slumbering weight of his son pressed gently against his chest. The soft hum of the station pulsed quietly in the background, the future already unfolding—one careful step at a time.

"Speech".
'Thought'.

 

[Matsu Ike]

Balun Dashiell

"Yes, it may be and if there are any questions needed do not worry about asking. The biots will have one option should you want to use it included. To turn off the automatic updates when we improve some of our technologies. We have developed the materials to upgrade itself rather then have to be brought in and changed. Without continued expansions further and further out it is much better." She said it going around the desk as the biots who were there left the room. "And should your family get the bug, we have begun operations in further galaxies as well as planes. Allowing colonies and acquisition of more exotic materials from across the universe and beyond. It is how we found the ether dust which allows one to see the ripples of the force."