Private Fortuitous Encounters

[Makai Dashiell]

Ears picked up on the tempo of her voice, the excited tenor it took as Ellie had described her varying studies in language. It brought a small smile to his face, finding it ironic a girl who was mute for so long had fallen in love with xenolinguistics of all things in life. Who would have thought all those years ago she would be chattering on like his excited kid self about the nuances of dialect.

Yet she calls me a nerd.

Makai made a mental note to ask her later about her studies and if she could teach him any interesting curse words. He highly doubted she would oblige, yet it would still be fun to ask if she dove back into being excited and gave him a five minute explanation and origin of the phrase e chu ta.

"I take it you each are representing Salacia Incorporated and Arceneau Trade and its subsidiaries in this expo?" He returned his gaze to Myra with that calm, cordial, but thoughtful demeanor, " Your mother mentioned she would not be participating." it was a nuanced piece of information, but it was there. It said that Casteel maintained direct contact and conversed with the Trade Queen recently, perhaps even regularly.

Makai resisted an eye roll at the flourish of the handkerchief being placed back into his breast pocket.

Dont be dramatic Casteel, this isn't a holodrama.

"Yes. I thought it would be beneficial to attend this Expo given it's proximity to Salacia's most recent expansion efforts. Add in the bonus of spending time with Ellie, and well, I couldn't pass up such an alignment of events."

Was he supposed to be jealous of the small tidbit dropped about Danger Arceneau? Casteel would have to try harder if that was the intention.

While close with the Trade Queen, Makai hadn't spoke to the woman since Celestia Station. He took it as a sign that the woman trusted him with her daughter, rather than constantly checking in to ensure Ellie's safety and happiness.

 

[Myra Elspeth Arceneau]

Myra nodded at Casteel's question in an affirmative, while Makai Dashiell explained how it made sense for him to join due to Salacia's expansion efforts. The added tidbit that it also allowed him time to spend with her gave her such a rush of pleasure her cheeks warmed again. Really, she was beaming so much that she didn't realize the slip Makai made on calling her Ellie instead of Myra. Not that it mattered to Myra. Others, however, would see it as an interesting, intimate nickname for the young conglomerate heiress. After the disappointment of her last suitor, there was speculation on just who Danger Arceneau would possibly allow her daughter's hand to be courted by.

"How are the investor discussions going, Casteel?" Myra asked in earnest, oblivious to the testosterone tension between the two men in proximity. Each making their own assumptions and thoughts regarding the other.

"My mama told me that you managed to set up headquarters on Empress Teta?" she inquired, taking another sip of her wine. By this point, it was well halfway finished.

 

[Casteel Mer'taal]

"Yes. I thought it would be beneficial to attend this Expo given it's proximity to Salacia's most recent expansion efforts. Add in the bonus of spending time with Ellie, and well, I couldn't pass up such an alignment of events."

So the prodigal son returns? Curious. Casteel mused, his face a cool reserved expression of interest. It was, however, the curious use of 'Ellie'? The Companion was not aware that Makai used a shortened nickname for Myra's middle name, Elspeth, so to say Casteel was slightly confused was putting it lightly. Add into it that the Dashiell heir remained close to Myra's side, tossing Judah's commentary about not being assigned Myra's escort due to Makai, and the sudden becoming flush of color dabbing the woman's in question's cheeks...

Well, it didn't take a genius to infer that 'Ellie' was none other than Myra. Casteel gave an internal scoff. The cad's timing is impeccable. Not long after, Myra's previous suitor had been taken care of, and now, the younger Dashiell returns, expecting nothing to change.

All the more tragic being that Myra seemed to be eating up what the Dashiell heir was dishing out. Still as naive as ever, the precious little dove. Gullible. Taken in so easily by her heartstrings and a pretty face. That was the tragedy of such childhood crushes. One holds them up on such a pedestal that one cannot smell the rot from being so close to it for so long. Or in this case, the mind has come up with its own rose-colored lenses that to highlight the good and none of the bad.

Casteel would have none of it.

"I see. Good show. Judah had mentioned that his son had been conducting fieldwork. Salacia's other expansion must have spread to the Unknown or Wild Regions in the galaxy for some time. Myra and I have toured the Core Worlds and Expansion area for the last six years, and we've only ever seen Judah or his associates when interacting with Salacia at events." that is to say, you've been absent all this time, so now you've decided to show up? "Perhaps we shall see each other more in the future, or do you expect to return to the fieldwork?" he made it seem as if making general conversation and an interest in Makai's work, but it was really to determine just how long would he actually stay.

Turning towards Myra, Casteel gave an incline of his head and the subtlest of smiles. "That is correct. After discussing with your father, I decided to set Corsuca's headquarters there and quickly connected with investors. Please do come visit. I would love your opinion on the artwork selection and the decor at the building and my office. You have an excellent eye." That was not a lie. As an artist, Myra had an excellent eye when it came to color coordination and knew Casteel's tastes enough to guide appropriate artwork to display. It was not only a method of ensuring Myra would be able to spend time with him, but also style headquarters in an appropriate manner befitting any Tetan that would cross Corseca's threshold.

The media observing her participation and frequent visits would also only provide excellent press coverage.

"Perhaps we may dine at Mirazur. I would be happy to take you and your sisters out for a meal." odds were, Rose and Lily would not be in attendance. They rarely were. Rose typically enjoyed traveling out to the Wild Regions to explore, while Lily was making a name for herself with the Force. That meant that Casteel would have Myra to himself.

 

[Azula Tindara]

"Who is this Azula Tin'dara? I've never met her. Apparently some of my pragmatic side is rubbing off on you. I'm only mildly disappointed mind you, we probably should stay and at least be sociable for a little while. I haven't seen both of the kids together since they started dating so, should be interesting to see how this plays out."

She offered a small smile and mulled over his own own perspective.

"You haven't seen your son for some time," she explained. "I didn't think it would be fair just to...go."

"I shouldn't have mentioned the xenolinguistics thing. I forgot Myra is smart as a whip and of course would have deep dived into a bunch of different questions about what you can speak....Just navigate those waters carefully, if you plan on staying around and the kids stay together, its going to be a lie you're going to have to build up."

"The easiest way around it is that I explain it's more of a passing thing, from when I was a Jedi. I can't pretend to be a serious academic. Can't draw thaf lie out forever."

"We should have them over one-on-one in the future. Wasn't an ideal way to introduce the new dynamic."

Azula picked up the tray of drinks, turning towards Judah.

"I do plan on staying around, don't think I missed you slipping that in. Makai has...his own thing going on tonight."

She didn't have to read minds intrusively to pick up a sense of thoughts and feelings through the Force.

"He deserves an explanation and I probably need to tell him why I haven't explained already. We spent a little time on those scouting trips."

Hokding the tray in two hands, she sauntered back towards the group.

"You've known her a long time as well then?" she asked.

 

[Judah Dashiell]

At her mention of planning on staying around, he resisted the overwhelming urge to disagree. Been there, heard that, got the souvenir shirt(well, child) to prove it. To say he was confident was a complete and utter lie, but it was a lie he would keep telling himself for now. No need to self-sabotage so early in the game.

"Yeah, Makai has that fake look on his face. I can tell from back here. I didn't know you two became friends during the scouting trip. Then again, those shuttles are small and cramped with nothing but equipment and sensors, so you'd have to get along quickly or kill one another. Since you both came back alive, guess I have my answer."

Judah wished she would have let him do the heavy lifting and carry everything but there was no point in it now, everything would just spill. He was looking like an idiot, letting her do the work, although he knew she was more than capable and would have pointed out otherwise if she didn't want to do something. Azula seemed to have no issues there.

"Myra is his childhood best friend, so I've known her a very long time. Might as well be a daughter at this point, I'm just as protective of her as I am Makai. Maybe more so, Makai sometimes needs to learn lessons the hard way in order to understand. He's got to figure things out on his own to really get it."

 

[Makai Dashiell]

"No,I have no taken over the role of overseeing our mining and gas extraction division. For the most part, I will be settling near the Core, both in proximity to the business ventures and to Myra. I feel we will be seeing much more of each other Castie. I'm looking forward to getting know you much better."

Makai could care less about Casteel in all reality. However, as the man spoke, it was clear the blonde bastard was intent on weaseling himself further into Ellie's life. What was this guys deal? It was clear he had aligned himself well and wisely, did his part, and was now looking to further move deeper into society as a banker. It was time for him to move on now, find someone else flutter next to like a soap opera star on too much stimulants.

Azula had returned and he picked his drink off the tray, along with Ellie's fresh one for when she was ready, a small murmur of thanks for Azula and his father.A thought sprung to mind as Casteel continued to bather on about his banking venture and ensuring Ellie came to visit and pick out artwork. Makai made another note to follow up on the art comment ; was she now a painter, collector, or both?

"Perhaps Myra and I can find the time to visit together. I do have a fraternity brother, Harlon Tanau, who works in investment banking now. Part of the Tanau family dynasty of bankers, I'm sure you've heard of him. Perhaps I can arrange for a meeting, see if you can further your connections into this new foray of yours Castie."

Two can play this game Casteel.

 

[Casteel Mer'taal]

"No,I have no taken over the role of overseeing our mining and gas extraction division. For the most part, I will be settling near the Core, both in proximity to the business ventures and to Myra. I feel we will be seeing much more of each other Castie. I'm looking forward to getting know you much better."

"Wonderful." although the pleasure of such joyful news did not reach Casteel's eyes. They were glacier shards that studied the heir of Salacia Consolidated as if he were an inconvenience he would have to deal with. The deliberate and informal use of a nickname unprompted was a breach in decorum. Alas, it was clear that the chav had no sense of propriety. Yet, as Makai had started it, Casteel would end it, "Great to hear, Makky. Do let me know if you need any assistance navigating the waters. I am more than happy to provide you with introductions to strategic gentlemen's clubs that would require a sponsor."

This was boring and annoying.

Casteel ran the flat of his tongue along the front of his teeth, then pleasantly smiled once more as he saw Judah and Azula return. Ah, at least one friendly face. True to his theory, the appropriate amount of drinks came with them. He'd have to speak to Judah to gather more information later. Casteel had already successfully set himself as a trusted ally to the elder Dashiell. His position was confirmed the moment he had pulled Judah aside to discuss the errant trash that was Blythe De'taar.

Before Myra could answer regarding the visit to Corseca Headquarters, the Dashiell heir inserted himself instead.

Shameless and typical as ever.

"Perhaps Myra and I can find the time to visit together. I do have a fraternity brother, Harlon Tanau, who works in investment banking now. Part of the Tanau family dynasty of bankers, I'm sure you've heard of him. Perhaps I can arrange for a meeting, see if you can further your connections into this new foray of yours Castie."

Then, the true depth of Casteel's handsomeness shone with the broad smile that flashed those perfectly pearly white teeth. The frost in his eyes scintillated with an electric blue, and it was with immense pleasure that Casteel swung his attention from Myra to Makai.

It was an extremely old trick. Utilizing the connections forged in university to pay forth the image of conducting a favor for another. It was no different than what Casteel had personally offered to Makai, but it was, instead, a flex to indicate that the younger Dashiell had the means to expand and pursue Corseca Bank's future. Ah, little did he know, that this was not his first time in the shockboxing ring.

"That I have. Makky, I am glad we are familiar in the same circles. Baylan Tanau is a fraternity brother from our time at Greater Coruscant University. He is Harlon's older brother. Good chap. I am pleased that the Tanau family has taken me under their wing and already has invested in Corseca. " The delight in his eyes was mesmerizing. "I shall send an invitation to Baylan and Harlon; you should join us at Chandrela's gentleman's club. They have a wonderful bash-ball court and grab golf course."

With that feather secured in his cap, Casteel turned that grateful smile of any well-mannered Companion; he inclined his head towards Judah and Azula as they neared.

 

[Myra Elspeth Arceneau]

Hearing Makai emphasize that he will be more present in the Core and within her proximity moving forward gave Myra such a tingly, joyful feeling. The more he kept using the words together, both of us, even Myra and I, kept giving her such a sweet, effervescent feeling. The rosy lenses of being around Makai were on, and their tint made her oblivious to the unique male tension occurring between Makai and Casteel.

After all, Casteel had been a constant support and loyal Companion for Myra since her debut. He went out of his way to ensure her safety, assist her with business, smooth over her anxiety and panic attacks, and served as a confidant to her many... episodes in the past. The majority had revolved around Makai, so seeing and hearing the great news that Casteel was willing to sponsor Makai at the gentlemen's clubs and assist was a welcomed bit of advice. Thirty-Seven was a tier Protocol droid, and while he certainly could help Makai with business and fashion and provide him insight, he needed to have the unique human factor regarding social circles or entryway that Casteel did with a lifetime of being in high society and a Companion

"Oh, that's great news. Thank you, Casteel," Myra answered, her grey eyes glowing and her grateful smile wide. She raised her hand to gently grasp Casteel's forearm, giving it an affectionate squeeze in gratitude.

Turning to Makai, Myra's smile broadened, "It is a marvelous offer. Casteel is well-known and acquainted with several elite clubs within the Core and Expansion regions. He has excellent connections through the Guildhouse, House Mer'taal, and from his time at the Greater Coruscant University." Sure, Casteel was the third brother, but he was still afforded every luxury and connection his family name gave.

 

[Azula Tindara]

Azula didn't like the part of her that thought how perfect the setup was. Male egos attached to so many, many credits.

They would barely even notice what she lifted from them.

She took a polite sip of her drink and pushed those thoughts aside. They were replaced by the reminder that she was being introduced to Makai again as Judah's partner whilst wearing a tunic cut this low.

Makai was getting flustered and Casteel was remarkably smooth. She didn't have a complete read on Myra yet, but she seemed oblivious to the competition.

It was difficult to avoid rolling her eyes at the talk of gentlemen's clubs. Judah had told her that Makai needed to work this out on his own.

"Well that sounds like a good way to network," she said politely.

 

[Judah Dashiell]

The Dashiells were not country club, or this in case, gentleman's club people. They typically stuck to familiar, hard-working roots of association and past-times. The only club the Dashiells had an intimate and long-standing relationship with was the type of sandwich.

He disapproved of Makai sinking himself into such a lifestyle. The fraternity had been enough a stretch, encouraged by others to force his son to join one to ensure connections in the future. Judah had allowed it and the results had been worth it, with Makai finding a more confident footing by the second year of university.

Yet his son was dating an Arceneau. Judah had noticed throughout the years the family was more comfortable with opulent tastes compared to himself.

As he watched Makai interact with Casteel, he wanted to pull the half-Galan aside to tell him to relax. It was plain as day that Myra was crazy about his son, no way was the girl straying off to the blonde.

Its like watching two dogs piss on the same hydrant.

"Best of luck son. I'll just be busy running the company. Go ahead and play golf with Biff and Kiff."

Judah offered a joking smile to the boy. It was best Makai made these connections rather than himself, it wasn't his style. The CEO was more than happy to outsource the task.

 

[Makai Dashiell]

Gentleman's club? Why are we going to see strippers together? Since when did strip clubs have golf courses? Topless caddies would make the game distracting.

Brain finally caught up to what was being said. An exclusive clubhouse for males only, clearly this one with refined sports and most likely a bar or some kind of lounge.

About to weasel his way out of it, Makai groaned internally when Ellie was all but fawning over Casteel for such an invite. There was no escape now. He would have to do what men in his position had done since the dawn of time : smile and give a yes dear at the news.

"I would be happy to accept. I haven't seen Harlon in awhile. We will have to align on scheduling, I do have to visit a supplier due to some manufacturing issues."

Eyes glanced to 37, willing the droid to keep quiet. He was planning a getaway to Naboo using the Tanau Estate and he didn't need the droid to let the news slip. He wanted it to be a complete surprise for Ellie and as such, was using the supplier story as a cover.

Makai looked to his father, laying the story on thick.

"Nothing to worry about. Just looking into how we can get them to speed up operations and deliver quicker. The expansion is putting a strain on resources and I would like to see if my presence can encourage the supplier to prioritize us first."

Judah nodded and Makai breathed a sigh of relief. Time to get off that subject and one away from himself and Ellie.

"So, Dad...Azula. How long has this been going on? How did you two meet? I'm sure the story is great. First time seeing you with someone and all, has to be an amazing tale."

 

[Casteel Mer'taal]

Casteel's soft voice was the exact opposite of the mischievous expression he shone at Myra: "Always at your service."

However, Casteel was surprised that the Dashiell accepted his proposition. The banking executive had been sure he would relay his gratitude, but he was too busy to participate, or it simply was not his style. Instead, masking his derision, Makai feigned appreciation and agreed to coordinate schedules.

Casteel's eyes narrowed. He is going to be a pain.

"Good show, Makky," Casteel's words were laden with a polished edge, a hint of a courteous smile and demeanor thinly veiling a disdainful perception of the Salacia heir. It was subtle and hard to read, but there nonetheless. "I am excited to make introductions then."

Casteel's outward facade of politeness remained intact, his demeanor almost cordial as he smiled at Myra and Makai. Inside, however, his thoughts churned. He couldn't help but feel that Makai, with his brash confidence and sudden appearance after all these years, was encroaching upon their world, especially regarding Myra.

As the evening progressed and the conversation turned towards Judah's partner and the circumstances of their suit, the facade of civility held strong, yet beneath the veneer of politeness, the tension simmered, and the unspoken discord between two men vying for their own place in Myra's world remained palpable. And in the intricate dance of social niceties, emotions brewed quietly, waiting a moment to break through the decorum and reveal the true sentiments hidden behind posh facades.

 

[Myra Elspeth Arceneau]

By this point, Makai Dashiell had effectively steered the conversation towards the topic that had been fanning her curiosity since Makai had pointed out that Judah Dashiell had not come alone to the expo.

“Have you seen me date anyone? Bring a woman to any event I attend? Haven’t heard me mention anyone when we talk and catch up. So, you can say it’s an easier said than done type of thing, to move on.”

Several months back, Judah and Myra had a very intimate conversation regarding matters of the heart, choices in life, regrets, and if second chances came into play, would Myra take it. Judah had indicated that at one time, he had been tempted to move on, but by the time he finally made a decision to let go and proceed, that door had closed shut.

Did Judah take her words of advice about finding love? That it wasn't too late for him? In her mind, Judah was a man worth his salt and someone who, given the chance, would truly love and cherish someone he let in.

Could this Jedi Master perhaps be it? Had to be for her to be here, standing next to him. Taking a closer inspection of the Togruta, Myra could not miss the low cut of Azula's blouse. If Myra had a deep vee with her own dress with her modest decollete, the amount of perky, azure curves Azula Tindara had with that cleavage certainly was enough to provoke envy and temptation.

The heiress shot an inquisitive gaze towards Judah, and in light of their previous conversation, the question in her eyes would hold more meaning and weight than, perhaps, the one Makai was giving them.

How did you meet? Do you love her? But most importantly, are you happy? Did that ache he had confessed to about feeling numb and alone finally leave?

Perhaps this was just one hopeless romantic to another, but Myra was truly concerned for Judah. Just as much as he'd been for her.

Myra thought back to her ma's musing regarding the flooziness of Jedi females and how quick men were to lose their heads and dip their wicks came to mind. A provocative thought indeed. Deciding that since Azula was a fellow Xenolinguist, and because Myra had no doubt that Judah must hold the Jedi Master to the highest of regards to be seen with him as his partner, potentially, even a romantic interest, she was willing to do all she could to welcome Azula.

A wide, genuine smile grew over Myra's lips, shinning it over to Azula, giving her a nod as if to please relay the story.

 

[Azula Tindara]

"So, Dad...Azula. How long has this been going on? How did you two meet? I'm sure the story is great. First time seeing you with someone and all, has to be an amazing tale."

They were doing this right now. Excellent.

You were the one that suggested staying, she reminded herself.

Azula found that she truly hated every word that Casteel spoke. Good show Makky, was like a nail on a chalkboard. She put that aside for now, deciding that she owed Makai an explanation, even with the long streak of entitlement standing and listening in.

"A little while now," Azula said. She glanced at Judah. That was going to sting. She was effectively telling Makai that this had been bubbling along since before they had met. Makai also knew she had some interesting old connections.

"I helped him out with some trouble on the station. Some mercenaries were trying to steal something I was trying to convince Judah to give me," she explained. She had her drink in one hand, but the other gave a Judah's arm a gentle squeeze.

"It was some time later that we crossed paths again and I had trouble with some of my previous business associates. Judah helped me through that and things...took a different turn. I'm happier than I've been in a very long time."

Azula relaxed her grip on Judah's arm. She wasn't wearing a mask. Not now. She was so used to wearing them. It made it easy to recognise the one Casteel wore.

It struck her how true that last sentence would been. She had skirted around the details of the truth without lying, but she'd meant every one of those last words. That she had surprised herself with the strength of the admission was rather obvious.

 

[Judah Dashiell]

Judah knew Makai was comparing notes from the Pacanth Reach visit to the timeline Azula laid out. He had sent the pair out together, not because he had wanted them to meet without any pre-conceived notions, but due to the fact he really didn't know where he stood with the Togruta. All of this was uncharted territory, he had never introduced Makai to anyone because there simply hadn't been anyone. Judah had been devoted to being a father and to Salacia, tossing himself into work.

Even now he felt like he was floating in some purgatory, torn between enjoying his time with Azula and guarding his thoughts and feelings closely. It was too new, too unsure to be completely open and vulnerable about everything in his life.

He had laid out his life to Myra not too long ago, back at a charity event. The older Dashiell had made the poor girl cry but, judging by the body language between his son and the Trade Heiress, the payoff had been worth it. Judah made a mental note to check in with Myra, to put a lunch on the calendar for them to meet without Makai.

I'm happier than I've been in a very long time.

Well, that was news. Something to circle back on later.

"Different turn or you couldn't stay away from me? Its no Outworlder love story." Judah tossed that bit in for Myra's benefit, offering a sly smile. "However, I'm excited to see where the future takes us. We will have to talk more about it soon, bring Myra over so I can catch up on this tale too. I'm sure you two have just as much to tell ."

 

[Makai Dashiell]

"Oh, well, awhile then."

That was before he had even reunited with Ellie. Makai was surprised his father was able to keep it quiet for so long, to not mention the woman. What other secrets did Judah Dashiell have? Had their been other women in his fathers life when he was a child and he was just oblivious? To be fair, he might had been. Makai did miss the not-so-subtle hints Ellie had dropped as they were teenagers that she loved him. It was probably wise to ask Ellie later, she tended to notice these things and definitely would have picked up on his father dating years ago.

The night was not quite going as planned. By now he was supposed to be half-way through making the rounds through the Expo so he could be relaxing in bed with Ellie watching HoloFlix. Instead he was here with Casteel, Judah, and Azula - not exactly the company he wanted to be entertaining. It was wise that he start plotting an escape before he had to do any more further 'bonding' activities with Casteel. If he didn't watch it Makai would end up on a slow-pitch graviball team, forced to interact with Casteel on a weekly basis.

"We really should probably check in on the Expo floor before it gets too late, even though I would hate to depart such company, business waits for no one. The point of the trip after all."

Makai prayed it was subtle enough yet loud and clear that he was ready to go. Of course, if Ellie wanted to stay with Casteel, that would through a wrench into their plans. Besides, didn't Castie mention his bank? It would be wise for the blonde man to focus on that first.

 

[Myra Elspeth Arceneau]

Myra was a romantic at heart. Through and thorough. She was also gullible regarding the men who knew her for her entire life. So if Judah Dashiell said he was excited to see where this romance would take him with Azula Tindara , Myra fully believed him. She understood the reference to Outworlder and that while it may not be a Jamye and Claire love, perhaps it might eventually grow to be.

Ultimately, what Myra wanted was for Judah to be happy. To smile. To not be alone and feel like he had someone completely worthy of him.

As for Azula's tale, Myra was not Force user, but her skills developed during her time at the Oiran Companion Guildhouse allowed her to be able to read body language and actively listen to discern true intentions. It came in handy with the various business meetings and engagement she had to take. The skills allowed her to pick out if someone was trying to pull a fast one on her; or El-Three would give her identifying information regarding what his life sensors would read to take that into account.

She picked up on how Azula squeezed Judah's arm, how she would look upon him with what appeared to be genuine affection, perhaps, even a bit of surprise. Hmm. Something to consider. It didn't appear that the Jedi Master was making up a story; then again, prejudices tended to color one's lenses.

While the heiress may not thoroughly pick up on we hooked up and banged and now it may be something more concept of Judah's and Azula's entanglements, Makai, on the other hand. Well, with a doctorate degree in all things Makai and more than half her life spent observing him, it was the tone when he said, "Oh, a while then." that drew her attention.

Glancing at him, grey eyes subtly swept over his face. She finally recognized the lines of nuanced tension along his lips and the tiny furrows right between his brows when he was mulling over in thought.

He'd only have to mention making the rounds for Myra to accept it. "Of course. We do need to go. " turning towards Azula, Myra smiled.

"Thank you for your time; it's a pleasure to meet you, Master Tindara." Myra gave an incline of her head towards the Togruta. After that, she stepped forward close to Judah to press a kiss on his bearded cheek. If that bothered Azula, well then, a make-shift first test would mean the Togruta would fail.

Judah wouldn't stop showing affection to Myra for anyone. Not even if she did have the perkiest blue boobs there ever could be.

"Comm me, okay? Let's get brunch when you have time," she murmured, gracing him with an affectionate smile after kissing his bearded cheek.

 

[Judah Dashiell]

Judah was a little jealous ; he saw how easily Myra had picked up on Makai's subtle hint and ran with it. If Azula had been the voice of reason, Myra was definitely the accomplice. He supposed it came with the territory though ; Makai had literally talked for Myra at one point in life. Reading someone when you had that type of connection was easier.

Instead of just settling for a goodbye kiss on the cheek, Judah gave the Trade Heiress a hug after prying the young woman away from his son. Fatherly kiss was placed on her cheek, offering a smile.

"For you Myra my schedule is wide open. You pick a place and time and I will be there. No need to work around me."

Judah hugged Makai next, holding his son tightly before releasing the boy with a clasp on his back. The elder Dashiell could only imagine the range of emotions Makai was feeling, especially for such a bombshell.

"We will catch up later too, come over for dinner. Sometime before Life Day, before our fishing trip, alright?"

Finally, Judah moved to speak to Casteel, shaking the young man's hand firmly.

"Casteel, don't forget about our meeting. Your investment for Coursca is secured, I'd just like the chance to catch up on your progress and see how you're faring in this new adventure."

 

[Azula Tindara]

"Oh, well, awhile then."

Eyebrows went up and down in response to that rather pointed comment. Her body language was quite clear. Yes, before we met.

She hoped that Makai wouldn't hold it against her.

She was glad that excuses were made for everyone to go their own way without her having to concoct something with Judah. It all felt more natural this way. She would want to dissect it all later. Try and revisit quite what path the conversation had followed.

Azula felt like an outsider as she watched the pleasantries play out. She had been on the outside of almost every interaction for two decades. She had played her parts, kept everyone at arms length.

She wanted to be a part of his life and this was just a piece of that. Azula silently chided herself. She couldn't start feeling social anxiety just because she finally cared.

"I'll see you again soon Makai...lovely to meet you Myra..."

She repeated her farewell to Myra in three languages just for fun.

"...and you casteel."

Whoever the fuck you are.

She took Judah's arm and was steered away. She let out a sharp breath.

"That was not too bad?" She offered quietly.

 

[Casteel Mer'taal]

It was clear the Makky boy was starting to feel the heat. Certainly, the news that his father was testing the waters on companionship appeared to be quite the blow. Behind his veneer of cordiality, Casteel was faintly amused. The irritation came next when the younger Dashiell made a point of trying to excuse himself, only growing when Myra agreed to depart.

While Myra said her goodbyes to Judah and Azula Tindara , Casteel turned to Makai Dashiell .

"A pleasure to finally meet the one responsible for so many stories Myra told me throughout the years. Feels like I know you well already."Casteel's voice was smooth, dripping with genteel courtesy that masked the annoyance simmering beneath. He extended a hand to Makai, a gesture steeped in formality. "You'll be hearing from me, Makky,"

As they exchanged pleasantries, Casteel's eyes subtly scanned Makai-- a man whose sudden return stirred a storm of conflicting emotions within him. His lips curved in practiced politeness, but inwardly, he seethed at the audacity of this interloper who dared to insert himself into the delicate equilibrium he'd carefully maintained with Myra.

The air crackled with an unspoken tension, an undercurrent of unresolved history tugging at Casteel's restraint. His mind churned with conflict-- protecting Myra was an instinct, a duty ingrained in him by years of shared moments, protection, and his duty as Myra's contracted Companion.

"Casteel, don't forget about our meeting. Your investment for Coursca is secured, I'd just like the chance to catch up on your progress and see how you're faring in this new adventure."

Makai's father's offer lingered in the backdrop, a tempting lure that clouded Casteel's judgment. The promise of financial backing for his banking venture wrestled with his protective instincts, leaving him torn between concern and opportunity.

Then again, out in public, just what could Makai Dashiell do?

In the end, Casteel chose to discuss business ventures with Judah, despite the Jedi Master's cordial but dismissive goodbye. She would do well with the haute court of the ton on Coruscant. It must be all that Jedi haughtiness.

"The pleasure is all mine, Master Tindara." He smiled at her with a pleasant, genteel manner that would be above reproach, bending at the waist to honor her. Say what you want about Casteel; he was always a perfect gentleman.

Either way, it slid off Casteel's shoulders, the man straightening. What mattered was Judah, his opinion of him, and continuing to be pleasant as decorum dictated. "If you like, Judah, let me accompany you both, and we can discuss the matters for the meeting." He offered with a smile, aware that if Judah offered to remind him, he would not be turned away.

Before he continued, he turned to Myra. With a fond look in his glacier eyes, he bent at the waist, gently took Myra's free hand, and kissed the back of it. Myra smiled.

"I bid you adieu, Myra. We shall be in touch." Casteel's tone remained poised, though his reluctance was evident.

"Of course, El-Three should be able to provide you notice of my availability. I'd be happy to come to your headquarters." Myra replied, accepting his request from earlier.

"It shall be done." Casteel straightened, turning back to Judah and Azula. A ghost of a smile lingered over that blonde banking executive's face.