Let's Get Makeb [Tmoxin Temi]

[Ibby]

Location: Solida Hesk's Resort, Makeb
Objective: Marry, then kill, the head of the Makeb Business Council

Vinatia Blackwood sat on the VIP porch of the resort's lounge, sipping on a martini as she awaited her cohort, a certain princess by the name of [member="Thais Kallisto"]. Though the girl was younger than she, the information Vinny had managed to dig up (or rather, a large sum of credits and several talented hackers) indicated Kallisto was someone who'd make an excellent ally -- or an unsavoury enemy. Cold, ruthless, and about as power hungry as she was. The girl reminded Vinatia of herself, almost.

The woman smirked, swirling the liquid in her cup. Mother of course had been the one to point her daughter's attention towards the CEO of the KMC. After Fenri and Daddy Dearest had been taken care of, the fem-duo set about looking at the next step towards garnering more power. Vinatia curled her lip slightly. Killing those two idiots had been easy; a healthy dose of ground suicide pills sprinkled onto their desserts and both were frothing at the mouth. Her darling brother was the first one to go; but then, wouldn't anyone who shoveled their food in without minding their manners? Disgusting. And by the time her father figured out what was happening, it was too late.

Similarly, the medical examiners had been paid off to declare the deaths a result of an allergic reaction to some rare alien product. But the dear cook was not arrested, because the product was too rare for an allergy to have been known.

A delicious clean up for some detestable relatives. But, as sweet as revenge was, the meeting today was not for reminiscing. Rather, it was for step two of her and Mother's plan: world domination. And if she had to pay taxes to a larger entity? Just fine, so long as they stayed out of her business.

And how did she plan on going about this? Simple. With the help of Princess Kallisto, Vinatia would seduce and marry Viktor Avesta, head of the Makeb Business Council. His family had been in charge of the Council (and, in turn, of Makeb itself) for many, many years, but soon, that would all change.

Soon, Vinatia would be a step further towards even more power. She licked her lips in anticipation.

Soon.

 

[Crix Meriet]

Location: Solida Hesk's Resort, Makeb
Objective: Degrade and embarrass [member="Thais Kallisto"] and perhaps help [member="Vinatia Blackwood"] in her endeavour

Crix was enjoying his new and dare he say it rightful position as Lord of Isis. He was enjoying his newfound free time and the trappings of royalty. His dear Toby was finally treated with the respect he deserved, for now it was he who was waited upon and Thais who did the waiting. It amused Crix to recall that he had come to Thais to serve and he had served her well, he would have continued to serve her well had she never dared to make claim on his T's Liberty. Alas she had and Crix had turned all his resources from keeping her upon the throne to kicking it out from beneath her.

Thais's fall had been sharp and fast in one day she lost her husband, her daughter and her liberty. That was why he was the one sat in the luxury speeder not her, a bejeweled hand stroking through his Toby's hair. wrapping the soft strands round his fingers. Toby's hair reminded Crix of a stuffed toys fur, steadfastly Comforting. He thought as he carded his fingers through his 'slave's' hair that he ought to have a crown made for Toby, one as subtle and yet captivating as his own dear love. Crix drifted to wonder wether his T was asleep. Crix rather hoped he was for it would mean his T was relaxing, it was ever Crix's endeavour to relax his Toby. No Thais was elsewhere, likely in a speeder of her own far from Crix's sight. Better for both of them that way. Stripped of her dignity and her wealth but for once dressed in the garb of a queen. Queen of the fools and half wits, long may she reign.

Their arrival was heralded by a loyal servant of Thais's court. A fool dressed in motley and blowing their tribute on a kazoo. Then Crix entered "My Lady Blackwood I present Thais Kallisto, Once the regal flower of Isis ... deflowered now" Then Crix gave an exaggerated bow and yanked upon a golden chain which had been a fixed to Thais's waist, hopefully yanking her forward, the bells on her fools crown jangling. She must have looked a state.

The he walked off to the side hopefully followed by his Toby to look out over the resort whilst Thais recomposed herself. He would let her make a show of her own before he swept back in to get down to business. He rather hoped to be able to enjoy some of the resort before he returned to Isis to plan Thais auction.

[member="Toby Meriet"]

 

[Armand Temi]

This could not have been more of an embarrassing situation for Princess Kallisto. Being a royal emissary for the Techno Union was something that she would have dreamed of a few months ago. But all of that changed when she was arrested on Ascension under a number of charges, including attempt to coup her own government of Isis. Thais was a walking reminder that bad deeds have consquences. At least if you get caught.

Either way, Princess Kallisto's situation was unique. She was able to avoid execution and jail time by handing over her assets to her main courtier for seven years. She was also required to serve him as if he were her King. But despite this, Thais was resolved to greet Lady Blackwood with the same dignity and grace as if she were still a ruling Princess. Lady Blackwood deserved no less.

But blast it, Crix Meriet was going to make this very difficult. He had dressed her up in some type of clown's costume, complete with a golden chain around her waist, decorated with crystals from her own quarries. Obviously she suffered the first few hours in outrage, and then when she was alone in her own speeder, she suffered a shame spiral, musing upon her dreadful situation with nothing to ease the embarrassing ache. But by the time the speeder arrived, following on behind Master Crix and Toby's, she had formulated a plan.

When the unlikely trio entered the Resort, Thais shot Crix an angry glance over the deflowering comment. She didn't do this often, but with telepathy, for Thais was a relatively unskilled Force user, she hissed inside her Master's mind: You leave the state of my virginity out of this. It's obvious that my maidenhood is not inact since I've had a child. She would pay for the mental intrusion later, that was sure.

Lady Vinatia Blackwood was so beautiful with her wavy, dark locks cascasding down her shoulders. Graceful and poised, she sat sipping her martini with not a care in the galaxy. A hard kernel of envy rolled around in Thais's stomach, which turned to self pity eventually. But one thing was for certain: it was she who still owned the royal reputation, not Crix. It would take time for him to build up the alliances that she'd had since birth.

"Lady Blackwood," Thais said, bowing a Princess's curtsy, the bells on her ridiculous hat jangling. "Forgive my costume. I am going to a masquerade ball later. Mr. Meriet probably failed to mention that." The Princess gave Crix a self-satisfied grin and approached the raven-haired beauty. "May I sit with your Ladyship?"

[member="Vinatia Blackwood"] [member="Crix Meriet"] [member="Draco Vereen"] [member="Toby Meriet"]

 

[Laira Darkhold]

I wasn't sure how I felt about these royal types personally. So many of them were spoiled and pampered and hardly deserved the praise and worship they demanded. Then again, I had seen a HoloPicture of this Blackwood and I probably would spoiler her given the chance myself, so who was I to judge.

The black ship landed quietly on Makeb. Not long ago, ArmaTech had owned several massive mines on the planet, exporting mass amounts of Isotope-5 for the company's own purposes, producing a large number experimental reactors and generators. Those had only recently been closed with the discovery of how to produce large quantities of the substance artificially.

Really I was here to introduce myself to the woman who would rule the planet, let her get to know the Foreman of the Union she was now a part of and offer her my congratulations and perhaps offer her my assistance to the young royal. She may enjoy having a positive relationship with the Foreman and Sovereign of Bothawui.

For this trip I wore a bit nicer apparel, armor with a nexu fur draped over my shoulders. As I walked from the ship and descended on the planet and took notice of the ship sitting on the dock. It looked familiar to me, "Draz, whose ship is that?"

The barabel warrior slithered up beside me quietly looking at the ship for a second, "That would be the Crystal Rose, owned by Crix Meriet. Ner'val spent enough time on it by the smell."

A thousand thoughts entered my head. That could be a bad thing. "Thanks. Lets just hitch a ride to meet with the new princess and hope the old doesn't have a heart attack if she's here." I said as I pulled myself up onto an open roofed airspeeder behind the barabel as a different warrior took the control.

[member="Vinatia Blackwood"]
[member="Crix Meriet"]
[member="Thais Kallisto"]

 

[Lief]

Toby wore the hugest of smiles as he accompanied his master around the former Solida Hesk Estate on Makeb. The slave was ecstatic to be here on the arm of the newly crowned Lord of Isis, and oh did Crix wear his Lordship well. He'd never seen his master look so radiant. Of course, Toby was so obsessively in love with Crix, he would be with him no matter what, but his new title was just the icing on the cake.

Speaking of cakes, Thais looked tarted up quite ridiculously today in a jingling jester's outfit with a gold chain around her waist. He supposed the bells were put on her so that if she ran off, they'd know where to find her. Either way, he felt some pity for the poor woman, as Toby lived his whole life under a master's boot, and knew how it felt to be degraded. On the other hand it was hard to feel too sorry for the former Princess as she audaciously tried to sell him away from Crix once.

Toby himself was dressed in an expensive brocade Nehru jacket and matching pants, but he'd parade around in a loincloth if Crix wanted him to. Completely smitten with the russet-haired slaver, Toby would do anything for his master, now matter how embarrassing. It was a good thing that Crix, while cruel to some, would never harm a soft hair on Toby's head, and would be horrified to embarrass him purposefully.

As they relaxed together on the grounds, Toby leaned in to nuzzle his master's neck. The mute slave knew that in a short while, his master would be would be talking business with that raven-haired lady and he would be a little bit bored. Maybe he would have Thais give him a foot rub to pass the time.

[member="Crix Meriet"] [member="Draco Vereen"] [member="Thais Kallisto"] [member="Vinatia Blackwood"]

 

[Ibby]

[member="Toby Meriet"] [member="Draco Vereen"] [member="Thais Kallisto"] [member="Crix Meriet"]

Vinatia watched the scene before her with a sort of detached interest, continuing to sip her martini in the same fashion. She found the man -- Crix, was it? -- to be rather arrogant, and felt a sort of immediate dislike for him. Of course, that also could have simply been the product of her idiotic male brethren and the influences from her Hapan mother.

The princess, meanwhile, was dressed in a ridiculous garb, but whether or not it was her choice Vinny felt compelled to point out her wish for a little bit of...shall we say...discreteness? An assassination attempt was near useless if half the galaxy knew. But, she held her tongue. Young Kallisto deserved as much for her effort to preserve what little dignity she had left.

In fact, it was clear that this Crix fellow and Princess Thais had no love lost between them... Vinatia's scheming mind began to put together a way to repay the girl. After all, debts were something Vinatia liked to give, not have. No doubt Kallisto was displeased with her situation; perhaps, further down the line, the older woman could send a little help her way? Something to think about, at least.

The slave boy was ignored by Vinatia, who deemed the help to be beneath her unless needed.

Masquerade ball? Tch, Tch. She knew better, but let it slide. "Of course, Princess," Vinatia replied, giving a friendly smile. It was on she'd practiced many, many nights in the mirror, perfecting it until even her mother sometimes believed her. Of course, Vinny rarely used it on her mother. Elyse Blackwood was her only true ally in this dangerous game of power, and was the only one who couldn't be bought with money. "You are, after all, the one I wished to speak with." Her voice purred with welcomeness, but her comment was an indirect jab at Crix and his slave.

The message was clear: you are not the ones I want to speak to, so stay out of this conversation.

Unfortunately, though, she doubted they'd listen.

Pushing the martini away (it was flavourful, but this type of work required a clear head), the noblewoman clasped her hands together on the table. "Did you have an enjoyable ride over?" Eventually they would get to business, but rule number one of negotiating was to open up with small talk. It gave oneself control over the meeting by exuding a sense of calm and a relaxed composure. Jumping straight to business, more often than not, caused the other party to see you as desperate. At least, that was what Mother had taught her.

It was time to see if Mother's advice would hold up.

 

[Crix Meriet]

[member="Toby Meriet"] [member="Vinatia Blackwood"] [member="Thais Kallisto"]

Crix was arrogant, Crix reveled in his arrogance, he knew he appeared as such indeed the whore's whore had told him such as he beat Crix. Out of his league was he [member="Darth Vizios"] , tell that to him now. Now that he held in his hands the fate of Isis and it's porcelain princess in his very hands. However he had earnt his arrogance for he had taken from beneath Thais her entire livelihood and what other could claim such?

Then there was Thais and her tinkling bells greatly amused Crix. How low he had brought her and with comparatively little effort. A turn to his Toby exposed a torn attitude, no doubt his T was torn between his pity and good heart, lamenting on the cruelty inflicted on a girl of only teenage years, on one hand. Upon the other, no doubt was his own dislike of Thais's betrayal of him. She had after all made exhaustive attempts to tear him from Crix's side.

It was clear to all around that Crix had soured upon Thais and she upon him. But it had not always been this way indeed once Crix had favoured Crix, not respect her mind but he would have been contented to serve her. Alas she had behaved most idiotically in challenging him in the one matter that was most dear to him. Indeed there is little that this Lady Blackwood could do to help Thais for her suffering was Ordained by the Foreman of the Techno union himself.

For now however Crix was focused entirely upon his Darlin'. Dressed finely as he always did recently, Brocade suited his darling. Finery brought out the shimmer of Toby's eyes Crix noted as he traced delicate patterns over the back of his Toby's hand. He reveled in his T's nuzzling half listening to Thais. "Thais you are not to sit" He called back eyes still fixed down on His Toby's hand as his held his own. "And I will Talk of your virginity or lack thereof in whatever length I wish for it is a great scandal among the courtiers of Isis, who express fear for the piety of a lady who would defile her self with offspring before joined with another in matrimony ... it is gracious that Crisis was averted by your failure to carry your Baby to full term and her timely demise " His hand gripped Toby a little tighter "Guard your mind, My Lady Blackwood for Thais revels in peering into matters above her concern" Then he returned fully to Toby. He had noted sme small discomfort in Toby as they walked, it seemed that some measure of discomfort had afflicted Toby but Crix could not tell whether his Toby's feet were sore or merely tired, either was crix was at loath to see his love suffer further "Sore feet Darling?" He asked in hushed Tones. ear still on the ladies conversation, as he continued after a short breath "Go and sit down T, my poor boy and I'll see to it you're properly soothed, we'll get you a nice foot rub and then when we get home we'll have a nice long soak in the bath and I'll pamper you" Then he let go of Toby's hand patting it comfortingly before turning back to their Lady host, who had started small-talk with the porcelain whore.

"My Lady, perhaps you have not been informed but Thais is no longer a princess, By order of the Foreman of the Techno union she is confined to 7 years of servitude and all her assets are under my authority as is her liberty ... I speak for the crown of Isis as it's regent whilst Thais lacks the dignity to command" He sat down across from her "So you could speak to Thais if you desire a friend who is enslaved and has all the power of a thumb tac ... or you can swallow your pride and talk to me ... Thais can attest to my skill as well as the price of betraying me" Oh yes he got her implication, she thought herself high and no doubt she was but she was a fool if she did not get that even the most high must stoope a little. For if she did Crix would see that the merchant lords knelt, whether that was by choice or on shattered knees.

She thought she wanted Crix to stay out but she was wrong.

Having said his piece for now he lastly turned to Thais. "As I am a kind master, you may remove that crown from your head and may also continue to talk with her Ladyship so long as you do not lie to her again" He said then as if he had forgotten he exclaimed before continuing "Oh and Dear Toby is suffering with sore feet, you are to attend to him, give him a foot massage and bring him anything he wanrs." How damaging to Thais's pride it would be to kneel before a man who she had tried to sell just a few months prior. Of course If Thais refused to embarrass herself, then Crix would tend to Toby but later he would punish Thais severely "you may bring him to it at her Lady's table if she consents ... so that you may hear of the role your are expected to enact on her behalf" For it was well noted that Crix lacked the renown to back a Nobles rise outside Isis. Not publicly anyway, so Thais would be his puppet in that.

Then he leant in close to Thais gripping her sleeve and talking through gritted teeth "Harm My Toby in anyway and I will open unto you a multitude of pain the like of legend and your seven years of service will be like an eternity, if you ever reach their end alive that is"

A false smile for the two ladies and a real one for his Toby. Then he sat back.

 

[Laira Darkhold]

The small airspeeder laden with Barabel and two Humans pulled up near the others. The barabel almost slithered out of the little convertible airspeeder and ducked off to the left several paces, his matte black armor bearing a Mythosaur in red stylizing on the left shoulder. The hunter eyed they three beings from a respectable difference. The man driving did nothing more than make himself comfortable in his seat, relaxing and sitting with his helmet in the seat beside him, not a care in the world. Certainly not with Draz and the Drahr'buir being the people he was chaufering around.

And finally the larger of the two human men dropped to the ground from the speeder. Grey metallic armor, black leather tabard and fauld, spotted Nexu fur half cape. Perhaps for once he looked a little like nobility even if he didn't feel it. His eyes cast over the two men and the woman in their charge, shooting a glance at Crix Meriet. Anyone who caught it that had an active mother in their life would recognize it as the universal glare for 'Behave'.

His grey eyes seemed to pass over Thais like she was non-existent, unable to be observed or noticed by the barbarian chieftain. The big man approached the raven haired woman, meeting her eyes and giving her a respectful, but slight bow. "Princess Blackwood I presume?" His voice deep, with an inquisitive tone to it, as though he wasn't sure what title she went by. "I am Draco Vereen, Foreman of the Techno Union and Archon of the Obsidian Order, among a few other less important titles that don't matter here. I came to introduce myself, welcome you to the Union, and appraise you of the mining rights of the planet and how they have been distributed." Pleasure and business in one trip, always far more efficient than trying to schedule them separately. Finally, as though just realizing she was there, he cast a look at Thais, his eyes almost apologetic.

[member="Toby Meriet"] [member="Crix Meriet"] [member="Vinatia Blackwood"] [member="Thais Kallisto"]

 

[Armand Temi]

Oh the pity in Lady Blackwood eyes! She knew. The noblewoman just knew that something was amiss in their situation, despite Thais's attempt to pass off her embarrassing outfit as a masquerade costume. She was even doubly envious of the lovely Vinatia now. The woman was not only titled, but wickedly clever it appeared. And interested in the Princess Kallisto despite her unfortunate circumstances. She wanted to kneel at Lady Blackwood's long legs and scream, I was like you once! Nine months ago, I was a perfect example of a monarch and about to be crowned a Queen! But now? It was too dreadful to think upon it.

Thais began to slide into the seat next to Lady Blackwood, but stopped abruptly when commanded by Crix not too. Her face flushed red with the shame over the situation, especially the comment about her virginity which was not a suitable subject for cocktail hour, and also for appearing so disgraced in front of the beautiful noblewoman. She listened to her former courtier take the lead in the royal hobnobbing. Eventually and when ordered, the Princess removed the jester's hat and set it on the table, eyeing at it as though she would be happy if it spontaneously combusted.

"Of course, My Lord," said Thais with mock graciousness, a slight edge to her voice now. "I will not tell any more lies to protect my dignity." She finally began to sit again, until she received the order to rub Toby's feet. If she had been wearing pearls, they would have been promptly clutched. "Crix, I promise you that Lady Blackwood will NOT want to see this impromptu massage. This is a resort and not a bathhouse after all." She visibly winced now, not sure what his reply would be, but Thais was not going to kneel on the ground with Toby's feet in her face. She would suffer a punishment later. Perhaps a good whipping across the bare back would be preferable to all of this humiliation.

As Thais drew back slightly when Crix grabbed her sleeve, uttering more threats, she noticed the Foreman himself, Draco Vereen entering the resort. Her heart beat faster - the Mandalorian still intimidated her. She also wanted to run up to him, grab him and ask where her child was, but she didn't want to frighten poor Vinatia. The noblewoman seemed to be taking it all in stride, despite the level of crazy in the outdoor area of Solida Hesk's Resort.

[member="Draco Vereen"] [member="Vinatia Blackwood"] [member="Toby Meriet"] [member="Crix Meriet"]

 

[Lief]

Toby was just drinking it all in. All of the subtle and not so subtle social nuances of nobility, and in Thais' case, former nobility. He found it rather amusing actually. Being a slave who was not-really-a-slave allowed Toby a clever disguise in which he could simply watch people, and find out their secrets when they thought he wasn't listening.

As Crix told Thais she couldn't sit down, Toby felt that flash of pity for her again. It was quickly replaced by a flush of pride. His Crix was so masterful when he was being cruel to Thais. Usually catching the slaver abusing theother slaves upset Toby, but there was no love lost between he and Thais now, so instead he felt flushed watching his sadistic master at work. His clever lover had also picked up on how sore his feet were and he was instructed to sit down so that someone could soothe them. Crix was so very good to him. He wanted to tear off Crix's clothes right then and there, but that would completely be impolite. He might have been a slave, but Toby prided himself on his impeccable manners.

A heavily armored man soon joined them, but Toby paid him no mind, fully amused by the idea this sanctioned embarrassment of the Princess. He took a seat and removed his boots, laying them next to the chair. Then he wiggled his bare feet and grinned widely, as if to say "I'm ready."

[member="Thais Kallisto"] [member="Crix Meriet"] [member="Draco Vereen"] [member="Vinatia Blackwood"]

 

[Ibby]

[member="Toby Meriet"] [member="Draco Vereen"] [member="Thais Kallisto"] [member="Crix Meriet"]

Once again, Vinatia watched the whole thing quietly, but this time her attention was less detached. The woman could have cared less whether Kallisto was a virgin or slept with half a dozen men each night; the love lives of others meant nothing to her unless it helped her somehow.

And despite having lost her power (alright, a little bit of the respect that Vinatia had for the girl withered away some, but then again, she was just a girl), the Princess still had contacts. No matter where you were or what you'd become, contacts were very, very important. Thus, Kallisto was important.

It also seemed, however, that the woman had run very close to underestimating Crix. As arrogant as he was, Vinatia had to admit he too would be a good ally, especially if he truly had brought Thais to such ruins.

​Even a thumbtack can wreck great damage, if used properly.

So, for now, she would cater to both. Thais Kallisto had the contacts, and Crix Meriat had the power. Put together, they were both highly valuable to her cause.

"Of course, Mr. Meriat. Forgive me for not realising your....importance as well." The smile she gave him was as false as his, and when the slave, Toby?, took his boots off, the smile continued to stay.

Even though she wanted to curl her lip in disgust.

"Princess Kallisto, if I had to hazard a guess, does not have experience in foot massages." No royal should, unless they are the ones receiving it. "But just down the walkway there, I think you will discover a spa that would pamper your dear...Toby...to his heart's content." Reaching into her purse, Vinatia withdrew a card that had the spa's insignia on it. Sliding it forward, she maintained her smile. "Here is my card -- it should avail him to all treatments and perks provided. Consider it the first step towards my repayment of your services, shall we?"

Just then, a man who looked like he was prepping for war walked up, introducing himself as Draco Vereen, Foreman of the Techno Union...among other things. Her grey eyes darted to the girl and back. Was this the same Foreman who had sentenced Thais to 7 years' servitude, as Crix said? And what exactly did Thais do to deserve such punishment? Ah, there -- the two exchanged a look. Something had clearly happened, then.

No doubt a delicious tale, but it would have to be a tale for later. She was more concerned about the present. Particularly, why the Foreman would deem it necessary to visit her, especially since she'd yet to actually take over the Council. But perhaps....

One of the things which made Viktor Avesta such a delectable target were the rumours circulating that he was skimming money from the Techno Union. If he was, there was no doubt the Techno Union would eventually clamp down and rid of Avesta themselves. Unfortunately, that meant if Vinatia didn't get to Makeb in time, a prime opportunity for a power grab would slip through their fingers. Thus, the mother-daughter team had sent the TU a sort of heads up, stating their intentions and promising to keep up with the payments if they pulled off their scheme. After all, what was a little money if you ruled a planet?

Perhaps that was what drew Vereen here. And if it was, then the ball game was beginning to change. The pieces, however, were not.

"It's a pleasure to meet you in person, Foreman Vereen. Unfortunately, the title of Princess is not mine yet, but 'Lady' will do just fine. Before we go on with the mining, however, may I talk about a little...idea of mine?"

 

[Crix Meriet]

Crix rolled his eyes a trifle amused as Thais cast the hat from her head and onto a table. Shooting the garment a most icy death stare, it was a bloody stupid hat but that was why Crix had picked it. It was as If Thais was channeling all the embarrassment she'd suffered into willing the hat to combust ... it did not.

His little show of force had earnt him the attention of their host. He inclined his head as she acknowledged his role "An easy mistake to make My Lady .." Too easy right Thais ? " ... All the best allies are the ones no one fears for people don't defend against things they don't fear, then thus the underestimated can cause great hurt " By snatching away a kingdom right Thais ?

Then Thais began to speak Crix had turned to her a nasty grin "Good" came his reply to Thais's promise not to lie again. Chipping away at her pride was fun so very fun. Of course in typical Thais fashion the royal whore ruined everything. Her refusal to rub Tobys feet was based on sound logic, It was not suitable for Toby to be pampered here and it was impertinent of crix to demand such. However the fact remained he had demanded it and Thais had refused. Slaves were not given the freedom to refuse and Crix didn't care what their Lady host wanted to see, It only mattered what Crix wanted to see and he wanted to watch Thais dragged low. Crix was about to ream Thais out when the Lady Blackwood spoke again. He was all smiles following her eyes to Toby who had made himself very comfortable it seemed, Perhaps more comfortable than it was polite to be but Crix wouldn't stop him . The slaver stifled a chuckle behind a cough, Toby was becoming rather brazen after Thais's fall, Crix liked his new Toby.

"You are correct" He replied, making no attempt to mask his dis satisfaction. Of course Thais had no experience in the art of service but it was not her skill that prompted crix to make her responsible for T's soothing, it was solely to embarrass her and remind her that whilst she had viewed Toby as nothing she had fallen even further than his seemingly Lowly plane. He next remarks brought a genuine smile to Crix's face. He took the card "Your Ladyship is most gracious" He looked over the card "Toby will be most grateful as am I and were he able to talk I'm sure he would express it ... If you excuse me I'll see to it that he leaves us be" Finally someone clever enough to fathom that the best way to get Crix to behave was to do nice things for His Toby. He did so adore the slave afterall. Finally with a nod he rose from his seat, turning to find that Draco had arrived. Kriff.

The sight of the foreman rather knocked the wind from him. Crix hadn't been able to get the blood out of his memory of Draco. "Mr. Foreman" He said firmly as he could. He would behave, Draco could speak and Crix would very likly Obey. Crix both feared and respected Draco Vereen, Draco was perhaps the only person to both scare Crix and carry his respect.

Then with a glance away he rushed over to Toby sinking to crouch beside him. Whilst Draco drew the attention of Lady Blackwood crix would care for his T alittle Crix smiled and put the card in Toby's hand before sinking down by Toby's feet "Take that to the spa and let them pamper you for alittle while I'm too Busy to dote on you as you deserve and Thais has other work to do " He began as he gave Toby a breif once over pressing his thumbs into the spots where Toby was usually most tender, his poor Baby, soft lingering presses at the tender flesh at the top of his feet then firmer rubs to the arches of Toby's feet before he finally moved to gently soothe Toby's sore pinkend toes. " I promise she will pay later though and I'll dote you you properly when we are done here" Once he had given both T's feet some breif attention he gently eased his 'Slave's' boots back on "Let's get you pampered" He announced pulling T back to his feet and gesturing for a royal guard to chaperone T "See that Toby is properly attended to, stay by his side and bring him back to me when he's ready ... You will speak on his behalf" With a breif goodbye kiss to T's cheek,Crix returned to business. He was going to miss his T, even if it was only for an hour or so.

He was quieter when he returned to the table, he had to be careful around Draco. So he lent on his hand glaring subtle daggers at Thais, plotting a way to punish her for her defiance. She was still forbidden to sit unless it was on the floor where slaves belonged. It seemed, from what Crix had gathered, that the Lady had an idea. No doubt it would need work. Hopefully not too much though Crix was lazy and desired to go back to swanning around tormenting Thais.

[member="Vinatia Blackwood"] [member="Toby Meriet"] [member="Thais Kallisto"] [member="Draco Vereen"]

 

[Laira Darkhold]

He looked at the raven haired noble woman for a moment, listening to her speak, and paying close attention to what she had to say. In truth, he was here solely for his own purposes. The Union's loss of a few credits was hardly noticeable and his plate was full with a thousand other things at the moment. Bothawui ran itself and his corporation handled the day to day affairs with little need for the CEO to step in and point at things to be done. But the Union was always in need of his time, and now the Obsidian Order as well. And then he had a four year old hidden away to go visit as often as he could. No, making the trip out here for some credits when he could have easily sent an Obsidian Knight with a small task force wasn't his purpose on Makeb.

"Of course, Lady Blackwood. I didn't mean to intrude on you, I simply came to throw my weight behind you." said with a smirk and a raised eyebrow. "I can't openly support you as Foreman, but I can ensure things fall in your favor, if I had good enough reason." His grey eyes met hers with a smile as he took a seat beside Lady Blackwood, opposite of Thais. "Princess Kallisto, please sit." He said without looking at her, his voice somewhat sympathetic. He was hoping she was long gone, that she had been sent off and dealt with so he didn't have to see what had become of her. Seeing her broken, humiliated like this wasn't easy. He would almost prefer she'd been dead than see his daughter's eyes piercing him in with a look of utter mental anguish. Crix and he could speak of that later.

"Please, tell me your idea, milady." Of course the Foreman of the Techno Union couldn't do anything directly without cause, but the Mercenaries of Clan Vereen could, if they were hired.

[member="Thais Kallisto"] [member="Toby Meriet"] [member="Crix Meriet"] [member="Vinatia Blackwood"]

 

[Lief]

Toby simply sat back, letting the breeze cool his bare toes, while he studied the machinations of the group. Lady Blackwood mentioned that Kallisto would have no experience performing foot massages and that Toby should go to a spa down the street. She was probably right, upon thinking about it, and all of a sudden being touched with those wet noodle hands of Thais' filled Toby with dread. He nodded his head in affirmation at the spa idea. Not only could he get a proper foot rub, but frankly, the educated slave found all of this talk of mining rights dreadfully dull. The only thing he rued was being apart from his beautiful master.

Soon, Crix was kneeling before him, a sight that made Toby blush with adoration. The slaver gave his Darlin' a nice mini foot massage and then lovingly put his boots back on him. With a kiss from Crix as his send off, a royal guard soon escorted him to the luxury spa, where he was put in a Zeyd-cloth robe and then rubbed and scrubbed until he drifted off into a deep sleep. His Crix really did know how to treat him right.

[member="Crix Meriet"] [member="Thais Kallisto"] [member="Draco Vereen"] [member="Vinatia Blackwood"]

 

[Armand Temi]

It seemed like everyone wanted to speak for Thais rather than let Princess Kallisto speak herself. Why I could almost be a Princess again if I closed my eyes very tight and then completely pretended I were somewhere else!

But it was clear by her words that Lady Blackwood was on her side. She immediately saved Thais from the indignity of the foot massage. The royal beauty had an idea, and no doubt it was probably the most savvy idea she had ever heard for the Princess's envy over the Lady's freedom had reached a fevered pitch. Does she want the Kallisto throne while she's at it? She's so adorable, rich and intelligent she could probably take it right from Crix's shaky palm!

Get it together, Thais, she told herself. Jealousy was a little bit of a new emotion for her, and by the maker, it felt pretty awful. You are a Princess still, no matter what your circumstances.

When Draco offered Princess Kallisto a seat, she glanced warily at him, and then back at Crix. The power play between the two of them was very interesting. She tentatively slipped into a chair besides Lady Blackwood, eyeing the noblewoman's frosty martini.

"I too am very intrigued by this idea of yours," said Thais with a self-satisfied grin now that she also had a seat at the table.

[member="Draco Vereen"] [member="Crix Meriet"] [member="Toby Meriet"] [member="Vinatia Blackwood"]

 

[Ibby]

[member="Thais Kallisto"] [member="Toby Meriet"] [member="Draco Vereen"] [member="Crix Meriet"]

A slight smile briefly alighted the woman's lips, conveying how pleased she was to finally be able to get to business.

"Good. Before we begin, though, perhaps some drinks?" She snapped her fingers at one of the waiters, who hurried over. "Bring my friends something palatable to drink. On the double." As he scurried off, Vinatia once again returned her attention to those who were gathered around her table.

"Alright. I will be blunt. I want this planet. Simply being a noble on a planet is rather constricting, in a sense. But if I could rule one..." A subtle smile returned. "Of course, I am preaching to the choir."

She intertwined her fingers on the tabletop. "With the help of you three, I would like to get rid of Viktor Avesta and his Council. Well, alright, the Council could stay, just with some minor adjustments. Avesta, however, must go. Unfortunately, I lack the resources and contacts to pull off such a coup." She fell silent as the waiter returned with drinks, waiting until he'd left before continuing.

Her grey eyes turned to Crix and Thais. "Princess Kallisto, despite your, ah...situation, you ought to have many contacts yet, particularly those who know Avesta. Mr. Meriat, I am more interested in the fact that you are the one currently in charge of the princess's assets. Together, I want you two to help me get as close to Avesta as possible."

The woman's steely eyes then turned to the Foreman. "Mr. Vereen? It's a shame I can't have your open backing, but I understand." And she did -- if this failed, it might be detrimental to the Foreman if people knew he'd been helping her. This way, win or fail, his hands were clean. It was smart, and something Vinatia would do herself. "Nonetheless, there might be something yet that you can assist with. For starters, you obviously have a large amount of influence over customs."

Vinatia gave him a coy little grin. "Mayhaps I could convince you to assist me in smuggling some less-than-savoury substances in? More specifically, some malkite themfar?" A nasty little toxin, it was used by assassins and bounty hunters when their target was better off dead. It was also fast-acting and could be applied to one's fingernails without losing potency. Unfortunately, she and her mother lacked the resources to purchase some discretely. "Just a tiny bit, mind you. I want to kill a man, not an army. Also, some glitterstim and the accompanying accessories would be nice." She tilted her head for a moment, thinking. "Is there also a possibility of being allowed to borrow some men for intimidation factors? The Council might need some convincing."

Her demands done, the woman leaned back in her seat and waited for responses. The things she requested were by no means small, and she very much doubted they'd do it for free. But, the schemer had that planned out too -- after all, the reason why she chose Makeb was for its isotope-5 content. Not as meaningful to Vereen (they'd have to work something out), but to the other two...Well, it was something to think about.

 

[Crix Meriet]

Crix watched Toby leave with a frown. They better look after Toby at this spa Lady Blackwood had spoken about, crix didn't know what he would do if they didn't but he knew he'd do something. Then once his love was gone Crix turned back to the table grunting in displeasure as Draco allowed Thais to sit. He would punish her for that also but not for now, he feared Draco's anger afterall.

"Silence Thais, Your input is unneeded until you are asked for it directly" He snapped. She might be able to sit in his presence and force him to suffer it but she was yet to be granted a voice. 'Please don't let her talk Mr. Vereen' Crix thought. He was beginning to get a headache already.

Finally he settled his attention back on [member="Vinatia Blackwood"] . Smirking at her bluntness, she rather amused him. Like Thais 2.0 all the charm without the annoying character traits or, lack thereof. "I know of those constrictions " Crix smiled "I have suffered as you do now" He didn't suffer any longer. No Thais suffered for him now and suffer she would.

He listened with a tilted head as she stated her intent. Deposing the lord Avesta and taking his place "A coup is nothing new to me " He smiled turning to flash a grin at Thais " Is there no way to get the council onside? They greatly assist in these matters" The government of Isis was most helpful in his little coup d'etat and now Crix was helpful to them. Never before had isis been so democratic a new governor was soon to be elected. Then once Thais was sold off Isis would begin transition to a full fledged democracy with a parliament. Where the sovereign was in charge only of scissors for state openings and speeches for dignitaries and special events. All in all a peaceful, carefree life for crix.

He lent forward. Yes, Crix was more interesting than Thais ... and much more attractive to look at. She was Porcelain and he cut crystal. "Thais will assist you My Lady, I will see to it that she hosts a gathering of these nobles who know of the Late Lord Avesta and I may self will see that their opinion of the Pretender sours. " Crix had a great many ways to turn a noble against their betters. "Then I shall get you close to to the Lord"

Crix lost interest as the Lady turned to [member="Draco Vereen"] . Drifting from the conversation to focus on the drinks that now arrived, Beautiful a marteeni. Crix smiled and took up the glass sipping at it gentle "Non for Thais, she is in recovery from the loss of her Baby ... " He sipped again " water only ... Doctors orders" He smiled once again at Thais, lifting his glass "Your Health" He saluted.

Then he waited on Draco he was the most powerful after all, he would make or unmake her plans and he held Crix's fortune in his hands. Thus Crix was at loath to publicly act against his wishes. He sipped at his Martini still glaring at [member="Thais Kallisto"] . Daring her to speak, challenging her silently to defy his prior order. Oh what fun he would have turning his moths of silent seething into agony for Thais. But how to go about it without marring her and sending her price into freefall. [member="Toby Meriet"] would likly object to anything too harsh ... Oh he was missing His T already.

 

[Laira Darkhold]

A bold plan indeed. A particularly potent nerve agent and glitterstim weren't hard to get through customs, they could simply be tossed on a vessel marked as his own and customs agents wouldn't even bother searching it if it had proper codes denoting it as belonging to the Foreman. No customs agent wanted to be the one to find contraband on the Foreman's vessel, especially if he could make them disappear fairly easily. He nodded to Lady Blackwood, "I could be convinced to arrange as much. Give me a day or so to have the substance brought to the planet." Sounded like she wanted to mix the nerve agent with glitterstim and slip it to Avesta.

As for men, that was one benefit to having a small private army. "My clan has a number of warriors for hite. Put them in nondescript armor and have them do your work. They excel at such operations, but stealth isn't their forte. They can, but they aren't great at it." All except the Defel Ner'val who was lurking around in the Obsidian Citadel somewhere. He could be called upon if needed with a single transmission.

Hearing Crix talk about Abigail at all caused Draco to stir. Crix was telling people she had been lost, which wasn't a bad thing, nor was it good. He wanted to apologize to Thais, but he couldn't. It would be as hollow to her as Crix's own false sympathy, regardless of how sincere it may be.

"But, I must ask, what's in it for me?" Seeing as ArmaTech was poised to lose in this situation, whatever she had in mind had to be good. With the planet currently evenly split between ATC and ArmaTech, in order for Lady Blackwood to sell any for a profit, one of the two companies had to give up something. "Perhaps, while we wait for your substances to arrive, we could discuss it over dinner?"

[member="Thais Kallisto"] [member="Crix Meriet"] [member="Vinatia Blackwood"]

 

[Armand Temi]

Thais tried not too look too eager at the thought of a drink. But it had been a few weeks since she'd had really good wine. In the Crystal Palace where she was currently residing, she was allowed to drink the servant's grog, but quite frankly that tasted to her like water from a refresher toilet. Not that she'd tasted it, but she could imagine.

The Princess sneered in a quite un-lady like way at Crix and then nodded graciously at Vinatia. "I do indeed," she confirmed. "Why my parents were close to House Avesta... before their deaths. But I kept in touch with him and his court over the years."

So freely the Lady spoke of assassination. Yet I do it, and I'm sentenced to a seven years as a slave. It hardly seems fair. But Thais wasn't in a position to judge or barter. She wanted her freedom, and if getting a little closer to it meant assassinating a former friend of her family's, she would do it in a heartbeat. She had no family now, they were dead or, like Xander Blackmoore, had fled after her arrest. In fact, my only family now are Crix, Toby and even Draco to some extent. Her belly ached with self-pity and even more so when Crix brought up the lie about her dead infant. The child was very much alive, but she did not know where or with whom. If she was able to get Draco alone, Thais would ask him.

After Draco and Crix both offered to help Lady Blackwood, the shrewd Foreman went straight to what Vinatia was going to give him in return. As well he should, thought Thais.

"I would be happy to serve in Lady Blackwood's court for a time," Thais said and since telepathy was about the only useful Force power she knew, she implanted these words in Draco's mind: Let me be a spy for you. To spy on Vinatia. If she is going to assassinate an Avesta, she will likely kill again.

[member="Darth Vulkan"] [member="Vinatia Blackwood"] [member="Toby Meriet"] [member="Crix Meriet"]

 

[Ibby]

[member="Crix Meriet"] [member="Darth Vulkan"] [member="Thais Kallisto"]

Though Thais's suspicions were not even close to being picked up by the noblewoman, Vinatia's writer had to admit the likelihood of the woman of mixed blood killing again was very, very high. Particularly if the death was of someone lowly offending her. Because that was the type of person Vinny was. Just look at her other family members.

In the meantime, Vinatia sought to reply to the three.

"Shopping always was a skill of mine," she purred. The nondescript armour would not be difficult to procure; unlike the illegal drugs, nobody cared if you bought armour. As for stealth? She didn't want stealth, she wanted blatantly displayed power, to better deter the council members from rebelling. "But dinner would be lovely, particularly since I am in no hurry. Give me a time and place, and I will be there." She would have much rather been the one to choose, but right now Vinatia was at the mercy of Vereen, at the mercy of all of them. Thus, she was forced to step out of the way and let others control things....for now.

Vinatia then turned to Crix and Thais. "Let me know if there is anything I can do to help with the gathering, and I will lend you what I can. As for you...." She shot the girl a small smile, one of welcoming on the surface, but on the inside she was a little wary. Not so much because she thought the girl and Vereen might work together; no, her thoughts were more selfish.

If the girl "joined her court", as she said...things would be interesting. As much as it flattered her so, Vinatia doubted it was wholly due to the girl being dazzled by her charm and beauty. The Princess could also be hoping to swoop in and attempt to take what was hers, in an effort to get back at Crix. Revenge was something Vinatia wouldn't mind helping Thais out with, but if her personal costs were great...

Then again, the girl could simply be wanting a break from being under Crix's thumb. Vinny herself knew how chafing that position was.

"I am sorry to hear about your parents. I don't know what I would without my mother." The woman paused for a moment, then continued. "Your connection would be most useful for this, provided Avesta doesn't grow suspicious." And most dangerous. Vinatia would have to keep an ear out, in case the Princess decided to have a turn of heart. She considered herself well above such struggles, but Thais was young yet. And, if her ears heard correctly, had also lost a baby. Was that the cause for the stranger tension between these three? Who knew. "But if this succeeds, you are more than welcome in my court."

Leaning forward, she gracefully plucked her new martini from the table and took a sip. All important matters were finished; now they simply needed to get the ball rolling.