The regal woman's attention remained unwaveringly on Ko as he spoke, her sharp eyes dissecting every word. The corners of her mouth twitched upwards when Ko mentioned Braze's natural talent, an expression that was a mix of pride and something more elusive.
"You've got a keen sense for the obvious," she remarked with a hint of sarcasm after Ko's deduction about their situation.
"As for names," she continued, her voice dripping with disdain,
"Titles and surnames are so... superficial. But for the sake of formalities, you may address me as Lady Seraphine."
Braze's jaw tightened at the mention of the name, old wounds being prodded. He took a deep breath, trying to steady himself.
Lady Seraphine walked over to the main console, tapping a few commands into it. The large panoramic window behind her displayed a holographic projection, showing a remote planet with some notable installations and structures.
"This," she started,
"is the reason you're here. But let's not jump ahead."
She turned back to Ko, her gaze lingering on him for a moment longer than necessary.
"Young 'Master' Ko," she began, her voice dripping with sarcasm as she played with his title,
"I'm intrigued by you. Not just as a Jedi, but as a friend to my son. What could possibly drive someone of your stature to befriend someone with... Braze's history?"
Braze stiffened at her words, feeling a surge of embarrassment and resentment. He opened his mouth to respond, but Lady Seraphine raised a hand, silencing him.
"Now, now, Braze," she admonished,
"let your friend speak. I'm genuinely curious."
Braze cast a desperate look towards Ko, seeking guidance on how to navigate the dangerous waters of this unexpected reunion.
Lady Seraphine exuded an undeniable aura of power, her every gesture and glance radiating control and grace. Her skin was a warm, rich caramel, setting off the striking emerald of her eyes. These eyes were almond-shaped , framed by thick, coal-lined lashes that only heightened their intensity.
Her plush lips, usually set in a knowing smirk or an imperious frown, were currently curled into a challenging smile. Her long, raven-black hair cascaded freely down her back, its wild and untamed nature contrasting sharply with her regal demeanor. The waves shimmered with every movement, adding to the ethereal quality that she seemed to possess.
Lady Seraphine's attire was as grand as her bearing. She wore a flowing crimson gown, which clung to her form and billowed gracefully as she moved. It was adorned with intricate gold embroideries that caught the light, adding a hint of opulence to her appearance. Around her neck lay an exquisite necklace made of shimmering sapphires, rubies, and diamonds, and on her fingers were rings that probably cost more than a small planet.
The whole ensemble was more than just a fashion statement; it was a symbol to her position, her wealth, and her undeniable authority. Every detail, from the fine stitching of her gown to the placement of her jewels, screamed of meticulous choice and deliberate display of affluence.
Her mere presence was commanding, and it was clear she was used to being the most dominant figure in any setting. The way she held herself, the tilt of her chin, even the rhythm of her breathing, all conveyed a single message: she was in charge. And while there might be warmth deep in her eyes, it was currently veiled by layers of calculation, ambition, and an inscrutable intent.
Braze's mother, Lady Seraphine, stood bbefore the two with a grace that commanded attention. Her eyes, deep emerald and almond-shaped, met Braze's with a mixture of sternness and nostalgia. Her raven-black hair flowed in wild waves down her back, glinting with stray light as she moved.
She circled the two young Jedi, her crimson robes trailing behind her, making a soft rustling sound, the heels of her shoes clicking as she walked.
"Braze," she began, her voice laced with emotion,
"You must have so many questions. About your father, about why I left, about... everything. You probably don't remember much of your father or the early days before I... left. But we come from a long line of influential leaders, visionaries who have shaped the galaxies for centuries."
Stopping in front of a large monitor display, she gestured towards, showcasing a vast fleet of ships, each uniquely designed and brimming with activity.
"This...All of this," she said, her voice laced with a hint of pride
, "I've built since I had to make the hardest decision of my life." she announced with pride,
"is what I've built after returning to 'our' world. After the loss of your father, I realized the importance of legacy, of lineage. Our family name holds weight, and I want to ensure it continues."
She turned to Braze, her eyes piercing into his very soul.
"It's time, my son. As a Jedi, you've been trained in ways that could be beneficial to our legacy. I want you by my side, to harness the power and influence that is our birthright."
Braze swallowed, his emotions a whirlwind. Memories of happier days, of his mother's sweet laughter and his father's strong embrace, clashed with the present, creating a cacophony of feelings. The reality of standing in front of the small 'empire' she built was overwhelming.
Lady Seraphine then motioned to a holographic display, which illuminated an intricate design of what looked like a massive space station or city.
"This is my vision, Braze. "
She paused, allowing the weight of her words to settle.
"Your father and I had differences, differences that couldn't be resolved. I had to ensure the legacy of our family continued, even if it meant... taking certain actions."
Tears welled up in her eyes, but she quickly blinked them away.
"I did what I believed was necessary for our lineage. For you. A place where our family's legacy is not just remembered, but celebrated. Where the galaxies come to us. But for that, I need you. Not just as my son, but as my heir. It's time you learned the truth about your heritage, about our family's influence and power."
Braze's emotions were tumultuous. Memories of a childhood filled with his father's wisdom and warmth, his mother's kindness and love, contrasted sharply with the woman before him. The revelations weighed heavily on him.
