Dancers and Dark Jedi

[Joza Perl]

The dense cityscape of New Santaissa was an uplifting sight for Joza. While the gentle rolling hills and clean air of Voss evoked feelings of peace and serenity, it was a more urban environment that inspired thoughts of home. Any why wouldn’t it? Raised in the entertainment district of Pleasure City, Joza found an odd sense of comfort in the grid of city streets. She’d grown up running alongside buildings scrunched together tightly, bright lights and colors all around. Everywhere there was noise and smoke. And glitter. It would be no surprise if Zeltros was discovered to be hoarding the galaxy’s glitter.

Regardless.

She’d come to Tygara on business, to meet with the CEO of Firemane Industries & Technology herself—[member="Siobhan Kerrigan"]. Joza didn’t know much about the woman beyond the most public of basics, namely her well-known company and the fact that she often lent a hand to The Silver Sanctum. Despite her own ties to the Sanctum, she’d yet to actually meet Miss Kerrigan in person. The Dark Jedi had been described as a master in the telekinetic arts and an intimidating presence on the battlefield, giving Joza cause to wonder what she was like.

She was interested in dancers, apparently. Heartbeat House had been steadily growing in popularity, and Joza had reason to believe that a certain galactic celebrity who booked private lessons with her might be the source of the sudden surge in requests. The increased income allowed for better costumes, higher quality makeup, and above all, more supplies for the studio’s underground operation. Who would suspect a simple dance studio of harboring escaped slaves?

The pilot took the ship lower, hovering just on the edge of the mountains outside of the city. Joza hummed softly, preening her hair in the reflection of one of the consoles. Ivan, her grumpy pilot, simply rolled his eyes at her antics. He was often the target of the Zeltron’s more irritating habits, but she’d spent the duration of the flight preparing for her meeting. Only when they got closer to their target did she start peppering him with questions.

“How do I look?”

It was hard to strike a balance between business casual and sexy—of course, it’s not something that one often went after. Unless you were a Zeltron dancer who owned a dancing studio, then it was important to look both professional and cute. She’d chosen a sleeveless pleather top with spiraling cut out patterns, layered over a black cut-off top. A white pencil skirt skimming just above her knees completed the little ensemble.

Ivan gave her a quick sideways glance. “Annoying.” He muttered.

Joza grimaced. “I meant the outfit.”

“It’s fine.”

The Zeltron rolled her eyes and brazenly adjusted her bra. He was a good pilot, but why did he have to be so cranky?

 

[Siobhan Kerrigan]

[member="Joza Perl"]


The arrival of Joa Perl and her grumpy pilot had been expected and so their ship was quickly directed to a landing pad near the villa. The Kerrigan-Alcori estate was massive and designed to show off the two matriarchs' wealth and power without being absurdly ostentatious. The estate was dominated by a classy villa that merged Old Eldorai elegance with modern aesthetics.


When Ivan's ship landed, Joza would find that she had a welcoming party. It consisted of a tall, black skinned woman dressed in a beautiful but somewhat brief white dress, and two female Eldorai guards with an amazonian build and dressed in Firemane uniforms. It was lovely weather, the sun was shining and so far the day had been spared the tempestuous storms that often plagued this continent.


After Joza presumably exited the craft, the dark skinned woman stepped forward. She was from the planet Dahomey and a long-term attendant of the two Firemane matriarchs. "Greetings, Ms. Perl. Welcome to Tygara. My name is Harmony, personal attendant of Lady Kerrigan," she said warmly, extending her hand.


Her eyes swept over Joza, giving the Zeltron a good one-over. The nice outfit did not escape her attention. "The Lady Mistress is expecting you. Please follow me, I shall take you to the villa." Lady Mistress? Firemane's peculiar operational culture and Eldorai cultural influence had produced some odd titles. Behind her lay an elegantly manicured and well-maintained garden, which would lead to the large villa overlooking the gleaming Eldorai capital of New Santaissa.

 

[Joza Perl]

Disembarking from the ship, Joza’s eyes immediately tracked to the attendant and her escorts, having figured that there’d be someone to greet her here upon her arrival. Inhaling deeply, the Zeltron drew in a deep breath of fresh air. Slightly humid, but generally free of the taint of the smoke and smog that often choked cities.

“Thank you, Harmony. It’s lovely to meet you.” Taking the offered hand in a firm shake, Joza smiled brightly at the woman. The brief roving eye did not escape her notice, but she did not bring attention to it. After all, her people did like being noticed and took pride in their appearance.

In following Harmony, Joza had a good chance to let her gaze wander around the estate. Gorgeous structures, beautiful gardens, enchanting women… “Lady Kerrigan has excellent taste, it seems.” She commented politely, nodding towards the nearest bed of flowers.

[member="Siobhan Kerrigan"]

 

[Siobhan Kerrigan]

[member="Joza Perl"]


"The Lady will be delighted to hear you think that way. She has an eye for beauty," Harmony gave Joza a sly smile when she said this, while leading her into the magnificient villa. The mansion's interior could be best described as tastefully opulent. It was not ostentatious, but meant to show off the couple's wealth and influence. Perhaps the fact that both matriarchs had been born in abject poverty played a role in this. Harmony deftly led Joza out of the reception area with its marble floors to the elegantly furnished living room. Tasteful tapestries and artworks decorated the walls, whilst expensive looking carpets were spread across the floor. A shiny chandelier hung from the ceiling, though the sunlight shining through the windows provided more than enough illumination.


The Countess Kerrigan was not seated on one of the comfortable leather couches. Instead she was standing and gazing out of the transparisteel window at the mountain tops and the city, back turned to Joza. Santaissa had been a planned city and reflected classical Eldorai elegance. While the capital was distant, from here one had a good view of the towers and glorious white stone buildings, including the ziggurat that dominated the city centre.


Siobhan slowly turned around when the Zeltron and Harmony entered the room. The voluptuous noblewoman was dressed in a beautiful and probably very expensive grey skirtsuit that projected both style and authority. Her long legs were encased in a pair of sheer silk stockings. Her long red hair cascaded about her shoulders in a full mane since she preferred to wear it long, unless in battle since it would be impractical then.


Harmony curtseyed politely upon entering the Lady's lofty presence. Despite or perhaps because of having been born in the gutter, the Lady was fond of some rather archaic, feudal practices. Of course, at the same time most of her servants were incorrigible trolls. "Lady Mistress, your guest has arrived, Ms. Joza Perl," Harmony announced demurely.


"Thank you, Harmony," Siobhan gave the Dahomian a warm smile. When she approached Joza, the Zeltron would probably notice that the Lady walked with a pronounced limp. It was the result of too many injuries that had never fully healed, though at this point it might be partly psychosomatic. However, her disability did not seem to detract from her presence. It was also quite evident that she was a Dark Master since she did nothing to obscure her alignment. The Dark Side slithered and coiled around her aura like a serpent.


"A pleasure to meet you, Ms. Perl," she took Joza's hand into hers and shook it. Siobhan had a strong, confident grip, but not an overbearing one. Her fingernails were beautifully manicured. "Welcome to my home. I trust your flight was pleasant. Can I offer you any refreshments?"


She did not have much of an accent, but her Basic sounded more like that of a Rimkin than a refined Coreward noblewoman. After trying many times to imitate the accent of a well-bred lady, Siobhan had given up. Partly because according to [member="Tegaea Alcori"] it made her sound like a mentally deficient hyena. Then again, Siobhan suspected most born-and-bred aristos were mentally challenged!

 

[Joza Perl]

Though unaware of how Lady Kerrigan and her wife were brought up, Joza had lived in a fairly similar manner. Raised by a single woman in Pleasure City’s entertainment district, mother and daughter scrounged to make ends meet. While always short on credits, Yulenka Perl was a warm person and had made sure to nurture her daughter to the best of her ability. As such, Joza was always a bit taken with displays of wealth and affluence as a whole. Being a Zeltron, she had an affinity for gaudy things—glitter, lights, and vibrant colors—but could appreciate the tasteful elegance of Siobhan’s villa.

Still, she promised herself that she would not become overwhelmed as she had when visiting the Master of her former lover, Darth Orcus. It probably wasn’t a good idea to accept an invitation from a Sith in the first place, but they’d had a lovely and civil evening involving dinner and a show. It was only a few weeks later that the Herglic fell during the Sanctum’s invasion of Ruusan, and to his apprentice’s blade no less.

As they rounded the corner, Joza’s gaze was immediately drawn to a figure facing the window, her back to the approaching women. As she turned, the Zeltron instinctively took note of her attire—sharp and stylish, as expected of someone with such good taste. That, and she was drop dead gorgeous—though not entirely attributed to her looks. Not that she wasn’t a physically stunning specimen (she certainly was), but Lady Kerrigan projected an aura of experience and authority. It all came together between her looks, the way she held herself, and the strong Dark Sided presence that freely ebbed from the woman.

Oh, and she was a redhead. Score!

The Dark aura didn’t particularly bother Joza. Though she was typically a bit wary of those who aligned themselves further away from the light side, Siobhan was a trusted ally of the Sanctum. That, and Joza had quite a few friends who were either Dark Jedi or who used Darker powers, so there was little issue there. The Zeltron herself practiced a few Dark techniques when needed.

The limp did not go unnoticed, but it would not be commented on. She had enough tact not to. “And you as well, Lady Kerrigan. Thank you for inviting me to your home; it’s quite stunning. You must enjoy some lovely views.” Joza was certainly enjoying a lovely view of her own, but she had enough sense to keep herself grounded. This was business, after all. She responded in kind to the hand shake, her own grip firm but not tight.

“Please, do not trouble yourself on my behalf.” She offered a polite smile. “I must say, it’s a pleasure to finally meet you in person. I’ve heard of your prowess in battle and your skill in telekinesis.” Telekinetics was something that Joza had a decent grasp on, but the Zeltron was more partial to elemental powers and supplemental skills. Maybe learning how to fight better at long range would leave her with less broken noses.

[member="Siobhan Kerrigan"]

 

[Siobhan Kerrigan]

[member="Joza Perl"]


Siobhan's own policy for Sith was rather simple. It involved killing them without mercy. "It's the best view of the city, other than the Queen's, or so I'm told. I suppose every matriarch thinks that of theirs," Siobhan chuckled self-deprecatingly. "It's even more delightful if a beautiful woman appreciates it with me."


The Countess was an incorrigible flirt. Her red lips curled into a broad smile when Joza complimented her. For all of the Countess' good qualities, she was very susceptible flattery. Especially when it related to her prowess on the battlefield, in the bedroom or her looks. "You flatter me, Ms. Perl. Perhaps you'll get the chance to experience that prowess first-hand. I am open for teaching."


Harmony was doing her best not to burst into laughter. "The Lady is a very dedicated and hands-on teacher," she was not snarking at all. Siobhan expected a certain degree of deference and demanded a lot of attention, but was more egalitarian than most Eldorai noblewomen.


"Harmony, be a dear and fetch us some drinks please." The Dahomian gave a slight bow, turned on her heels and walked out, though not before giving the Zeltron an encouraging smile. Meanwhile, Siobhan gestured to a table and limped towards it. Sitting down on one of the comfortable looking leather couches, she crossed one toned, stockinged leg over the other. The couches had nice, embroidered cushions. "Please sit down. I've heard good things about your company. I understand you've got quite the selection of dancers. I'd be intrigued to hear what you have to offer and what your terms are."

 

[Joza Perl]

“Oh? I certainly wouldn’t mind being ragdolled by a fellow redhead.” A wry grin began to seep through her polite visage, but Joza kept herself in check for the most part. Flirting came naturally to the Zeltron, and Perl was no exception in that regard. Sure, she had a tendency to overthink and work herself up into an anxious ball of nerves, but she’d have been a very different person if she hadn’t learned to control it. Or dead, most likely. Probably dead.

One of Joza’s closest friends had been a telekinetic specialist of a Dark Jedi, so she held a certain fondness for the skill. “Of course, it would be an honor to see a true Telekinesis Master at work. Beautiful and deadly is such a winning combination.” At the mention of Siobhan being “hands-on”, Joza’s lips almost curled into a smirk. Already this was far more interesting than she would imagine a typical business meeting to be, but those who usually hired dancers were usually quite interesting themselves.

Returning Harmony’s smile, Joza’s head tilted downwards slightly as she left to fetch the refreshments. Following Siobhan’s cue, the pink skinned woman would drift to the opposite couch and seat herself neatly, hands smoothing against the back of her skirt as she shifted one of her ankles to cross over the other. Her movements were smooth and natural, telling of her experience as a dancer. “Certainly, Lady Kerrigan. Heartbeat House has quite a few dancers available for hire. Whether it be for a party, club performance, or even something a bit more long term.” Opening the clutch purse she’d brought with her, she retrieved a data pad and tapped the screen a few times.

“Here you can see all of our current dancers. Please, let me know if any catch your eye and you’d like more information on them.” The catalogue was filled with pictures of the studio’s dancers, most all dolled up in makeup and glitzy costumes. Beside each image was a short blurb consisting of the dancer’s name, species, skill level and dance style. Siobhan would find that there were mostly women listed, with a few men as well. Species wise they consisted largely of Twi’leks, Zeltrons and Humans, though there certainly were a few more alien types. All appeared near-human or humanoid.

“As terms are concerned, I ask that the dancers are not touched. To further enforce this, I generally have security of my own employ accompany the dancers. Though to be honest, those who hire dancers my are typically…” She waved a hand around to accompany her words. “…far less affluent then yourself, My Lady.” A polite smile crossed her features, but there was a thinly veiled hint of protectiveness. Not aggression or suspicion, but Joza was defensive of her dancers and put their safety at top priority. Siobhan didn’t seem like the type of person who would harm any of those under her employ, but the two had only just met and Joza was used to being careful.

[member="Siobhan Kerrigan"]

 

[Siobhan Kerrigan]

[member="Joza Perl"]


"You like to be ragdolled and have a thing for redheads?" Siobhan asked innocently, then chuckled. There was a sly grin on her face. "A woman after my own heart. I don't bite, unless you're into that sort of thing." Her lines were as corny as a maize field, though [member="Tegaea Alcori"] tended to find her wife's corniness endearing.


As Joza sat down, Siobhan's eyes were briefly drawn to the woman's shapely legs. The Zeltron's movements were smooth, elegant and graceful. Those of a dancer who knew her trade, as opposed to someone who was merely employing them.


She reached out with her hand and accepted the proffered datapad, browsing through the list of dancers. She focused mainly on the women, though she spared the manlings a few glances. Due to a slightly convoluted set of events, a mind meld had made Siobhan appreciate the other sex a bit more, but on the whole she still preferred the ladies and was rather sexist.


"That is quite an exquisite selection of lovely beauties, Ms. Perl. Amirah and Yasmin look like real darlings, and the Cathar girl, Jaesa, is lovely," she said, licking her lips slightly when she looked at the Twi'lek. She raised her hands to gaze at Joza. Truth be told, Siobhan momentarily looked a bit taken aback when the Zeltron informed her the dancers should not be touched, but then shrugged and nodded.


"You care about your employees. I like that. They're more than a resource. I won't lie, I'm used to dancers who are more, how shall I put it, liberal with their affections, but it's my personal code to respect my girls' limits. It's the basis for any successful relationship, and all the more important if you're in a position of power." There was no trace of sarcasm or snark in her tone, she was being quite serious. Then again, she did have another job as a dominatrix. "I don't force my preferences or desires on others."


At this moment, Harmony returned to the living room, carrying drinks. She glanced over to Joza. "The Lady is very kind and understanding to her employees...and I'm not just saying that because she pays me to fawn," she joked. "There you go, oh Exalted Mistress."


Siobhan wondered whether the Dahomian was trolling or trying to get a raise. "I like that title. You should use it more often," she fondly ran a hand through Harmony's dark hair and planted a gentle kiss on her lips, which the black woman returned, before Siobhan's brown eyes flickered towards Joza.


"I'm not fond of the idea of foreign security on my estate, as I'm sure you understand. I can guarantee that your dancers would be treated with respect and not maltreated in any way. Many of my own employees are former slaves. They wouldn't work for me if I didn't treat them with dignity."

 

[Joza Perl]

Joza joined Siobhan in a soft chuckle at her own response, though thought better of anything she could say back. For one, it would likely be just as corny, if not cornier. While she certainly enjoyed a bit of playful flirting, she didn’t want to take things too far and appear gaudy and unprofessional. As welcoming as lady Kerrigan was, she didn’t want to push anything or overstep her bounds. It would be best to simply wait and see if a line presented itself—if there was a line, of course.

As Siobhan listed off those who caught her eye, Joza nodded slowly. “Amirah has been with me since Heartbeat House’s inception. She’s an excellent dancer, very popular. One of my dance instructors as well.” A fond smile curled her lips as she thought of the purple skinned Twi’lek. Joza had acquired her after busting into a new slave trader’s circle with Solan Charr. The poor girl was absolutely nervous and frightened, but slowly came out of her shell once she settled in to the dance studio. “Jaesa is rather new, but a talented young thing. She can shimmy like no other.” A laugh trickled from throat as she thought of the energetic Cathar.

“Yasmin prefers more conservative styles and costumes, though her dancing is just as sensual and mischievous as the others. Some even seem to prefer that, but preferences will be preferences.” Ah, Joza’s stage name. The layers of silk hid her appearance, but also the scars one would rather not see on a dancing beauty.

Siobhan seemed a bit surprised to hear that the dancers were not permitted to be touched, and to be frank it was a common reaction. But the women and men under her employ trusted her, and if she allowed touching then things could get messy. Joza nodded slowly, extending her senses outwards not to probe Lady Kerrigan’s mind, but to feel for the truth in her words. Her own natural form of mild telepathy was enough, but she disliked prying. Regardless, Siobbhan’s sincerity had convinced her. Respect was highly valued and treated carefully.

A brow arched above her bangs at Harmony’s comment, but a pleasant look was ever-present on Joza’s face. She enjoyed the banter between employee and employer, and Harmony seemed comfortable here. It was reassuring. As the pair exchanged a brief kiss on the lips, Joza observed with a curious eye. She was raised in a culture that appreciated the pursuit of pleasure, and little kisses like this were often exchanged between friends, lovers and those who were both. It was a bit strange to see such things off-world, but not off-putting in the least.

“I do understand, and I will not insist. However, would it be permissible for me to accompany the girls for a short period? I do believe that you will be good to them, but I’d only be there to ensure that they are comfortable and settled, then I will be on my way.” Perhaps Joza was a bit paranoid, but she was certainly protective. “Quite a few of my dancers are ex-slaves as well, so it is a relief that you understand where they’d be coming from. So much damage to be undone from such a barbaric practice…” For a moment, her eyes would unfocus, traveling over Siobhan’s shoulder and settling on the window beyond. But they would snap back to the other woman after a few moments, that default pleasant look painting her features.

[member="Siobhan Kerrigan"]

 

[Siobhan Kerrigan]

[member="Joza Perl"]


Siobhan was thoroughly lacking in shame and tended to be rather open with her affections. To a degree, this was the result of Eldorai influence. The space elves were arrogant and xenophobic, but ironically a lot less prudish than humans. Admittedly her rather sexualised behaviour sometimes even scandalised Eldorai matriarchs.


She put the wine glass to her lips and took a sip, savouring the taste. Say what you want about the Eldorai, their wine was exquisite. "That's perfectly acceptable, my dear," Siobhan said warmly, her red lips curling into a smile. "There's no need for you to be on your way though right after you've assured yourself everything's fine. You seem like pleasant company, after all. The villa has several guest rooms...or you can share mine," she chuckled and gave the Force Master a wink.


"Seriously, I understand why you're cautious. I was a slave...briefly, but it gives you perspective. That's why Firemane shoots slavers on sight." Siobhan had no problem with executing, torturing, brainwashing or enslaving slavers. Contradictory? Well, that's up to the reader.


"The world I'm from, Dahomey, used to be infested with slavers and warlords. Entire villages were grabbed and never seen again. That's how I first met Lady Kerrigan and Lady Alcori when they drove out the warlords," Harmony interjected gently. She was less scarred by these experiences than [member="Tempest"], but had her own scars beneath the bubbly exterior.


"Sadly, this barbaric practice has been tradition in many native cultures on Tygara. Firemane recently finished a war with the Xioquo - dark elves. Most of their people were slaves, and now we're dedicating significant resources towards giving them a livelihood and education. Contrary to what most Jedi think, things don't just turn shiny and happy by snapping your finger and saying they're free."

 

[Joza Perl]

Seeing as how her host was indulging in the wine, Joza decided that it was appropriate to sample it herself. The Zeltron lifted the glass, taking a slow sip a humming in approval. Earthy, with a fruity note that she couldn’t quite place. Something native, perhaps? She was far from a wine connoisseur, but could appreciate how rich and complex the drink was. Likely something far more expensive she could routinely afford.

“Oh? How generous. Perhaps I will take you up on that offer.” She directed a coy smile towards Siobhan, though made no effort to hide the traces of a less than innocent desire behind it. She was a Zeltron after all, and it was partially ingrained in her to seek pleasure. Not that she didn’t fight against that part of her nature, but she gave into it just as much.

“Mmm.” Nodding from behind the glass, Joza murmured her agreement as she lowered her drink. Her eyes reflected a less jovial attitude upon learning that the Lady was once a slave as well. “It does give me perspective to know that you’ve likely been through the same treatment as I.” She paused, swirling the glass idly for a moment, watching the dark liquid move as it caught the light. “I can’t say that I entirely disagree with your practice in that regard.” There was a hint of amusement in her voice as if to signal that she did not disagree at all. Joza was fairly flexible on many topics, but she was a staunch abolitionist. Slavers decided to control the lives of others, and therefore forfeited their own right to life.

Her eyes flickered over towards Harmony, a spark of sympathy in green irises for the woman’s plight. Though the Zeltron would keep herself as composed and pleasant as possible, not wanting to bring down the mood.

“Absolutely.” Her head bobbed in agreement. “I’ve found that one of the most difficult aspects victims are faced with post-slavery is that they do not know what to do with their freedom. Be it from a lack of resource or education, it simply isn’t enough to free them from bondage. Quite a few are born into the practice, and don’t know how to function without a set of chains on them.” Joza had been lucky in that regard. She had friends that supported her after both of her unsavory endeavors, and places to go and feel safe. Many did not. “Honestly, it’s refreshing to know that someone is looking at the bigger picture, beyond the shackles coming off. It’s so much more than forced servitude.”

“If you ever need an extra blade on the battlefield against forced slavery, I’d be more than willing to lend mine.” A small smile curled at the edges of her lips. Perhaps inadvertently, the rose-skinned woman may have revealed a bit more about her operations than she had intended.

[member="Siobhan Kerrigan"]

 

[Siobhan Kerrigan]

[member="Joza Perl"]


The situation on Tygara was fairly complex. As much as Siobhan would have liked to set every slave free the moment she set foot upon the planet, it was not practical. Experience and the school of hard knocks had taught her the disparity between high ideals and the often grim reality. There was a reason why there was no Jedi presence on Tygara. Well, beyond the fact that the Eldorai were a racial matriarchy who were strongly opposed to foreign meddling. Few Jedi saw the larger picture because all they knew was the Code and they expected everyone else to conform to their ways.


"You're completely right. Unless you provide opportunities and education, you'll just leave them destitute and then they'll be easy prey. Then their freedom won't be sustainable. I have a few servants who used to be slaves. Some were a...gift from a local ruler," she shifted a bit, looking a bit uncomfortable by the admission. She'd accepted the 'gift' to make sure the slaves had a better life.


"They're all free employees now, but it's taken a long time to wean them off despotism and make them understand I won't abuse them. They expected harsh punishment for the slightest mistake. It was deep-seated indoctrination for some, to the point where they saw it as natural. One of my elf knights is a former slave-soldier. Poor thing had been abused and branded by her mistress, but she's settling in well now. Making her former owner pay was satisfying: The queen is currently toiling on a plantation on Arkas, living like the poor, common folk she used to disdain and oppress. It's probably rather tiring for her delicate constitution."


She did not mention the fact that she'd actually wanted to mind wipe the Mirza of Lakish and replace her memories with those of a slave. Her wife had been uncomfortable with doing that, so manual labour had been her next choice. "So, Joza - you don't mind me calling you that, right dear? - are you very active slaughtering slavers and freeing the oppressed? I could certainly use a hand," she said innocently.


Harmony refilled Siobhan's glass and then did the same for the Zeltron. On the way out, she leaned forward and whispered into the pink lady's ear. "Siobhan likes you. Just so you know, her appetites are voracious." Then she sauntered out. Siobhan's eyes briefly darted towards her butt before she turned her attention back to Joza.

 

[Joza Perl]

Both brows rose again briefly at the mention of some of her employees being gifts. But the explanation that followed was fair enough, and Siobhan had given her no reason not to believe her. In truth, her words made Joza slightly uneasy, but not for anything that the other redhead had done. The talk of forced submission stirred some of her more recent memories as a slave-girl to a Hutt, where she’d been beaten routinely into submission. There was a certain point where she’d either broken or come to terms with her situation, and had to force herself to believe that she really was beneath Kossak and his court. It was the only way to survive until she’d managed to escape, or so she saw it.

The mention of the brand caused her to physically squirm in her seat for a moment, gripping the thin stem of the wine glass with a bit more vigor. Her own mark—at the base of her neck—was hidden by a curtain of red waves. If she had a steady hand, she undoubtedly would have singed it with saber or flame by now. The Zeltron would rather wear an ugly scar than a symbol of her abuser.

She nearly snorted in agreement, settling herself back against the chair as her formal posture began to slip just a bit. “That sounds fitting. I’m not typically one for revenge, but there’s a certain Sith Priestess and a certain Hutt I wouldn’t mind watching burn to ash.” She smiled mirthlessly, staring into the wine glass before refocusing on Siobhan and her question. “Of course. Call me whatever you’d like.” A playful spark lit her gaze, and her smile melted into something a bit more genuine.

“I wouldn’t say slaughter exactly, but I do no grant quarter to slavers. I prefer to keep things as clean as possible, but whatever gets the job done.” A sweet smile met Siobhan’s innocent tone and she took a hearty sip of the wine. Clean, yeah. If you called severed limbs, charred corpses and smashed heads clean. Occasionally, it was a release as much as it was well-intentioned. Typically her operations were more…methodical. “I try to focus most of my attention on their captives, however.”

She paused as Harmony whispered to her, unable to help the sly smile that curled her lips upward. The spark of desire in her chest couldn’t’ be helped either. Subjected to a woman of beauty and power who likely had a sexual appetite that could match a Zeltron and possibly beyond? Please, no. Anything but that.

Leaning forward, Joza looked as if she were about to say something. Hesitating clearly, the Zeltron took another sip of her wine, humming gently into the glass before lowering it. “My studio functions not only for dancing, but also as a safe house for freed slaves that have nowhere to go. We feed and clothe them, and they help out around the studio. Cleaning, cooking, and whatnot. Nothing forced, of course—I would never do that. But my goal is to help them settle into life beyond slavery, and integrate properly into society. Some have left, establishing themselves elsewhere, but all are welcome to stay. It’s something I’d like to expand, if possible.” She paused, a bit of a sheepish smile coming over her face. Had the wine loosened her lips, or was it something she was eager to get off of her chest? “I intend for that to stay between the two of us. I like to keep the circle of people who know about Heartbeat House’s ulterior function to be…small.”

[member="Siobhan Kerrigan"]

 

[Siobhan Kerrigan]

[member="Joza Perl"]


It was just Joza's luck that she'd been invited to a household filled with some rather oversexed ladies! However, the Zeltron's apparent unease did not escape Siobhan. There was a story behind it, even though Joza might understandably not want to divulge it. She could get behind burning Sith and Hutts to ash though! That was totally on her wavelength.


So she toned her flirting down. "My, my, there's a lot more to you than meets the eye, my dear. I think we're gonna get on very well," she said after Joza spilled the beans. "It's a very noble cause. I'm glad you trust me enough to divulge it to me. Rest assured, your secret's safe with me. I'll treat it with the confidentiality it deserves," she promised, taking her sip from her wine.


"Firemane already helps protect a town composed of escaped slaves, Freetown on Arkas. So I'd be happy to aid your safe house, if you need support. How many occupants does it have right now? And what are your plans for expansion?"

 

[Joza Perl]

Joza nodded slowly, quickly raising the glass to her lips and taking a slow drink, using the time to better organize her thoughts. Siobhan certainly knew what to say to make her feel at ease, and the Zeltron sensed no deceit around the other woman.

She was right in saying that they were getting on well, no doubt about that. Though she was still in more of a formal mode, Joza could easily see herself sinking into desire among all of the pretty ladies here. Pretty ladies who were down for that sort of thing, moreover. Oh, and a potential business deal on top of that. Life was good.

Memories of her past flickered away for the time being. Joza was a fairly emotional person, but she’d learned how to reign her feelings in when necessary. Which was quite often, lately.

The glass lowered, and a soft, genuine smile settled onto her face. “Thank you, Lady Kerrigan.” It was all she could say on that matter.

At the mention of Freetown, the pink skinned woman hummed softly in thought. She wasn’t a big fan of advertised safe havens, only because she saw them as an easy target. But Freetown was well protected and well supplied from what she heard, so they likely didn’t face the same set of potential problems Joza would. She typically took good care to hide the studio’s ulterior motive, only a few people knowing what she did. So far, only Solan Charr and her pilot, Ivan knew of the safe area beneath the studio. And now Siobhan.

Joza hesitated. She was taking a bit of a chance in trusting the woman, having known her for so little time. Perhaps it was paranoia that someone—a particular Sith, perhaps—would discover the other reason behind an otherwise innocuous dance studio. To have that taken from her would shatter her.

“Twelve, at present. I’m looking to acquire the building next door, but I’d also like to expand to several locations throughout the galaxy.” She paused, her smile shrinking a bit but still evident. “I admit, at first it was just about the dancing. I had a small studio that could fit about six people. When I started doing well, I moved to a new, larger location to accommodate growing class sizes. I never thought I’d get the idea to harbor escaped slaves, but one thing led to another.” She shook her head, laughing softly. “I guess what I meant to say, was that I’m an amateur business woman and I don’t know how to go about expanding properly, much less managing such a…delicate business at different locations. I’d really appreciate any advice or help you can offer, Lady Kerrigan.”

[member="Siobhan Kerrigan"]

 

[Siobhan Kerrigan]

[member="Joza Perl"]


Freetown had been a bit of a pet project for Firemane since they wiped out the pirates and warlords of Arkas. The settlement was located on an island and run by an elected council of ex-slaves, though Firemane advisers liaised with them. Farming was undertaken on a voluntary basis. Obviously it was not a utopian paradise since inevitably the most educated slaves, such as those who'd been personal servants of cartels or Hutts, rose to the top. This had led to criticism, along with the allegation that Firemane was exploiting former slaves as sweated labour.


The latter accusation was nonsensical. Moreover, providing for the slaves and helping them maintain the infrastructure came at a considerable expense for Firemane, though the settlement was expected to be self-sufficient soon. A few former slaves had found their way into the Firemane ranks though.


"I'd be ready to help and offer you advice," Siobhan said warmly. "Even with the security measures you got in place, it's best not to put all your eggs in one basket. Accommodating a larger number of slaves will make operations more complex and their needs more diverse. Helping slaves is noble, but you must think of your business and employees, too. If you want to put down roots in my corner of space, I can provide room on the Tirathana Skyport."


Given the way Siobhan phrased it, one could easily get the impression that she considered herself the real ruler of Tygara. Too much ego? She certainly had a very big one, but at the same time she wielded a lot more power than a her fairly junior rank in the Peerage would imply.


"It's the big space station in Tygara's orbit. It serves defensive purposes, but it's largely a trade hub and residence for those that can afford it. Most of the offworlders who haven't settled in New Santaissa live there. Firemane has its own section since we helped build it. I could reserve some space for you. Living quarters for freed slaves, cargo space for supplies and so on. It wouldn't raise eyebrows if you opened up a dance studio, since the station has a thriving entertainment sector. In addition, there's the option for your company to become a Firemane subsidiary."


She paused, letting her words sink in. "I understand if you're concerned this would compromise your independence, but my conditions wouldn't be arduous. You'd run your company the way you do now. I'd be able to offer substantial financial and logistical support, along with security if needed. Alternately, I can offer a loan at generous terms."

 

[Joza Perl]

Joza ruminated over the offer as Siobhan spoke. A rather generous offer. A thoughtful gaze settled on the lovely form of Miss Kerrigan, draped so elegantly over the couch. “I’m not particularly worried about my independence, so long as I can teach, my dancers can dance, and my charges are safe and cared for.” Becoming a subsidiary was not a bad thing in her mind, but she’d had to check out Firemane’s operations a bit more to see if the merger would be good. Her company was little, and she never thought it would grow at the rate that it has been.

“This is all so generous, Lady Kerrigan.” Admitting that was easy, especially considering how this seemed to be a safe option. Her only defense on Lianna was her cover—it would certainly raise some brows if a dance studio were to purchase a shield generator, and she was unsure of what channels to go through in order to keep it secret. Thankfully Lianna was protected by the SSC and not too far from Voss, the Sanctum capital.

But that didn’t mean that something couldn’t happen. The Zeltron was not without her enemies, and her studio could become a potential target for retaliation.

“I have to ask though, what would you get out of this deal? I’m not sure what use Firemane has for dancers.” It wasn’t a veiled question, but an honest one. “Not that I think you have any ill intent, Lady Kerrigan. I’d just like to know about any strings or caveats beforehand.”

[member="Siobhan Kerrigan"]

 

[Siobhan Kerrigan]

[member="Joza Perl"]


Siobhan was often labelled as impulsive, and it was true to an extent. After all, she had not known Joza for long. However, she liked the young woman. It helped that the Countess and her wife treated Firemane as their personal fiefdom and didn't have to answer to a board of directors.


"I'm not really into strings. I'm more of a rope person, truth be told," she said innocently because it would not be Siobhan without corny innuendo. "Seriously, it means I get to help emancipating people and spread a little culture. Firemane's mainly a paramilitary corporation, but there's profit in the entertainment sector. It helps that I love being surrounded by beauty. Finally, I like you."


Siobhan had cunning, which many aristos at the Eldorai court had realised too late since they dismissed her as an oversexed sledgehammer, but outright deception was not her style. She was extremely loyal to her friends, which was probably one of the reasons they stuck with her despite her tempestuous moods.


"Feel free to think things over. There's no rush. The offer of space on the Skyport is independent of my other proposals." In other words, declining would not mean that Siobhan would suddenly not help her.

 

[Joza Perl]

Joza paused for a moment, and it actually took a couple seconds for the innuendo to register in her head. She initially looked caught off guard by Siobhan’s innocent tone, but a sleazy smile took its place once she realized the implications.

“Ah,” Another pause, and Joza have the wine a brief swirl before taking a hearty mouthful. A thoughtful look painted her face as she reigned herself in, reminding herself to not get too familiar with Miss Kerrigan. This was a business deal after all, though…sometimes deals were punctuated with a little something else.

“I’m certainly more than a bit curious to see how you handle your ropes, Lady Kerrigan.” Doing her best at a rebuttal, perhaps Joza ended up sounding just as corny, if not cornier. But flirting, regardless if it was empty or a promise of things to come was both natural and welcome to her. Again, Zeltron.

“Abd you’ve certainly given me quite a lot to think about. It's not often that I meet a woman as generous as she is stunning.” There was certainly much to be admired here, given Siobhan's apparent prowess in both business and on the battlefield. In truth she was a little intimidating, but Joza could work past that. “I think that this may be the start of a beautiful…partnership.”

[member="Siobhan Kerrigan"]

 

[Siobhan Kerrigan]

[member="Joza Perl"]


Siobhan grinned like a Cheshire cat. The jury was still out on whether this business meeting would lead to a fun romp, but she was still pleased. "I have plenty of skill with ropes. I'd be be more than willing to show you," she said cornily. She was probably under the impression that she was being very witty.


She savoured the last taste of the wine on her tongue. "I believe this partnership should work out very well. You're staying for dinner, aren't you, Joza? If you'd like to stay for the rest of the day and spend the night on Tygara, I have a lovely guest room available or I can book a classy hotel."


It was probably obvious that Siobhan would prefer it if Joza stayed at her villa, but she did not want to be pushy. "It would be my pleasure to show you New Santaissa. My villa also has its own training area."