Private The Catalyst Protocol: A Debt Repaid

[Liin "Tera" Terallo]

This is a new thing for me. I have not quite been hunted before. At least not in the respect that I am now. I do not believe that there is a bounty on my head yet; but that may end up changing in time. Instead I am being hunted by those that do not approve of my latest project. But it is an important project nonetheless. Most especially for those like me.

Yet a sudden shift needs to take place. Whereas for a time my little makeshift laboratory in a long abandoned mining facility was a perfect location. It is no longer. With the theft of some of my project's notes due to a hacking of my data system; my location was found. Imperial Intelligence agents, Jedi, Sith, a Witch, a former Jedi and Mandalorians infiltrated the mining facility where I was working.

Once that situation was taken care of, I had made the back ups of my work, hidden them along with some of my hand-written notes, and left that old mining facility for good. But where to go? I am running low on funds. I have been quite careful in my spending, even going so far as to cut down my meals in the day. I have lost a little weight, I know. But I am not around others enough for anyone to notice. Ever since I had left my homeworld behind, I have mostly kept to myself. And that isolation had helped to stir my scientific curiosity.

Which brings me to my situation here and now. I require more funds, yet I do not wish to be indebted to anyone. And so the answer to that is to call upon some old debts that others owe to me.

Diarch Reign is one of them. His empire has only grown in part from the capital that I had given him. It is high time that I call him for the return of a favor. Earlier in the week I had arranged for an appointment with him via a holo-call. I open up the transmission on my end and patiently wait for his own holo-image to appear before me. I should not have to wait for too long.

Tag: Diarch Reign

 

[Diarch Reign]

​

Location: Bastion | Reign’s personal quarters
Tags: Liin "Tera" Terallo

---

Reign was in his study, a brief moment of respite and reflection from his duties as Head of State, Father, and Husband. He received a small beep on his personal communicator, which he had been expecting. An old friend had sent word that she was in need of aid, aid she had once rendered to the Diarch himself. So as a man of his word and someone he considered himself a friend to, Reign had agreed to the meeting.

As the holo image sprung to life, Reign looked at the visage on the other side of the call.

“Liin”

He said softly. She looked worse for wear, but he was enough of a gentleman to not bring it up. He would let her take the lead in this discussion.

 

[Liin "Tera" Terallo]

I was correct. I did not have to wait for long. It had only been a few minutes before his holo-image came into view.

I offer him a bow of my dead in greeting. "It is good to see you. Although I wish that it was under better circumstances. Suffice it to say; I am in need of your assistance. I have run into a bit of trouble with my newest laboratory and to make a long story short; I am in need of a new one. Exactly where that will be, I do not know as of yet. But I require more credits than I currently have on hand to accomplish such a transition." Having to ask or beg for credits is not something that I am used to doing. But I feel as though danger is lurking everywhere; and those credits are vital for the survival of both my research and of myself.

"Will you be able to help me?"

Tag: Diarch Reign

 

[Diarch Reign]

​

Location: Bastion | Reign's personal Quarters
Tags: Liin "Tera" Terallo

---

Reign listened intently. He had already made up his mind to help as soon as the question had come from his friend. He was indebted to her after all. But he wanted to know more, not solely as a man repaying his debt, but as a man who did not want to see a friend in danger.

"What have you gotten yourself into Liin? I must confess with my campaigns in the galactic North I have been a terrible friend to you. Tell me more, and let's see if I may be able to offer more than just finances"

He studied her holo image again, under closer scrutiny it did appear as though she had been living on the run.

"I offered you protection once as well. My doors are open should you need sanctuary. Any one after you will find Bastion is not so easy to get into now"

 

[Liin "Tera" Terallo]

What have I gotten myself into? Such a question is one that I have asked myself ever since my little makeshift laboratory on Makeb was invaded. And that took place not long after I had discovered that some of my data was stolen from what I had thought was a secured network.

As I was about to respond, he continues on, offering me sanctuary on Bastion. I can see the worry and concern on his face. It made me want to hide myself, for never had I been in a situation where I am to be pitied. I am used to being regarded in high esteem, and not in this sorry state that I am in now. I almost feel ashamed to be reaching out like this and to let people that knew me to see my in such a manner. But I have little choice if I want to pull through and to succeed. I need to be able to count on more people that I can trust.

"You have not been terrible. You have a large population to care for and govern, while I am just one individual that is outside of that. Now as for what I have gotten myself into? I can simply say that is a groundbreaking new project with far reaching implications, it seems. I am completely blindsided by the attention that a portion of my research notes have garnered. And that has me a little on edge." I cannot trust the holonet or any form of electronic communications. "Perhaps a personal visit is in order, so that I may see for myself the progress that you have made; whilst I take your offer into consideration."

My mind is already running through different plans, with different back ups and decoys. If I am to avoid danger as much as possible while still continuing my research; then I need to be as covert as possible.

Tag: Diarch Reign

 

[Diarch Reign]

​

Location: Bastion | Reigns quarters
Tags: Liin "Tera" Terallo

---

Reign took in his friends words. A groundbreaking new project, far reaching consequences, and unexpected attention. Well she had his full attention now too.

At the offer of a personal meeting the Diarch leaned forward a bit. He was intrigued, but more so he wanted to see his friend safe.

“A personal visit is a grand idea. Bastion has become quite a jewel in the North. We would be honored to host you”

His voice dropped suddenly

“You should come quickly. I will send someone I trust to meet you. His name is Varlo Finnall. He heads my personal guard. Here is his info send him your location.”

 

[Liin "Tera" Terallo]

I give him a deep bow of my head as he agrees for the visit. "Thank you. The honor will be mine. And there is no need for ceremony or grandeur. I no longer hold a position that calls for it. And given recent events, it is best that this visit remains a quiet one. Although I do look forward to seeing first hand of what you have accomplished."

Information is passed along to me about his personal guard. For a moment I am hesitant, yet I accept it nonetheless. "If all goes well, I shall see you in the coming days. Be well until then."

I wait for him to end the call before I quickly enter my co-ordinates to Varlo. I do not have them set to my residence, but to a space port near by. It will take him time to arrive way out to Makeb, and the highly electrical and unstable upper atmosphere will make it a challenge for his ship to arrive. But it gives me the time that I need to pack the equipment and items that I wish to bring along with me.

Tag: Diarch Reign

 

[Diarch Reign]

​

Location: Reign's quarters | Bastion
Tags: Liin "Tera" Terallo

---

With a brief nod of his head, Reign ended the communication line. He needed to move quickly if his friend was in as much danger as he sensed.

Opening another private line, he got into contact with Finnall. His closest friend and head of the Myrmidons.

"You will be receiving coordinates shortly, an old friend is in danger, we must get her safely to Bastion. I need your direct hand in this my friend, it is of the upmost importance."

The other man stared at the Diarch with ice blue eyes. He had walked through hell for Reign, not because he was "a Diarch", but because he knew the man would be walking the path in front of him, not behind. So if the kid needed something done, Varlo would see it through.

"I'm already on my way, we will get her here safe Reign, and when we do, I'll place a few of the Myrmidons on a security detail. No one will get to her without your say"

No solute from Varlo Finnall to the Diarch, they were beyond such small formalities.

---

As Varlo's shuttle dropped from hyperspace, his view came upon a space station. It was obvious Reign's "Friend" had not sent her direct coordinates.

"She must be in more danger than we thought if she didn't trust even Reign with her exact location... Smart"

He piloted deftly, he had brought Whisper and Wraith with him as back up, just in case it went sideways (as it often did with Reign and his "friends")

As they approached the space station he received permission to dock, while the autopilot took care of this procedure he pulled out his personal comlink and responded to the woman that had given him coordinates.

"Commander Varlo Finnall of the Myrmidons on approach. Tell us where and we will be there. Reign sends his regards"

 

[Liin "Tera" Terallo]

I spend my time packing my things. I do not have a lot to bring with me fortunately. What I have easily fit within two cases. A copy of a fraction of some of my notes lays buried in a chasm about an hour away from my residence, along with a small vial of Isotope-5 secured tightly in a nondescript cannister. Perhaps I will come back to it at some point. Or maybe it will never be discovered for hundreds of years, if my life were to be cut short. Regardless, it is there as a back up should I need it.

And then it was a waiting game until I was contacted by Varlo. The only times that I had left my residence was to eat at one of the restaurants. And even then I kept it to a minimal; always ordering more than I could eat so that I can bring the leftovers back with me.

I hear my comlink ping while I finish my brunch. I quickly swallow my bite and reach over, hearing the message from my escort. They have arrived. Finally. And without incident, it seems. I click the button and respond in kind; "Thank you Varlo. I will meet you in the central plaza in fifteen minutes. I will be carrying two cases. I ask that you please address me as Tera, and treat me as though I am a distant relative being picked up for a reunion of sorts. At least until we are safely aboard your ship. See you shortly"

Whether or not he follows my instructions remains to be seen. It is not an easy request for one stranger to give to another. But I could have asked for worse.

I quickly finish my brunch, slip my comlink into my pocket, wash up so that I look more presentable instead of as some refugee, and then gather my two cases along the way to my door.

This is unfamilial waters that I now tread, and it makes me feel even more isolated than ever. But at least there are some wlling to help me in some measure.

I approach the plaza with a pleasant smile on my face to mask my wariness. Now I am to play the part of a lady searching for her family that have promised to come. And I plan on playing that part very well.

Tag: Diarch Reign

 

[Diarch Reign]

​

Tags: Liin "Tera" Terallo

---

As the instructions came through, Varlo smirked, he was sure that what the woman asked for would be seen as a steep request, but the Myrmidons were masters of all warfare. This included infiltration.

"Instructions confirmed. We will see you soon Tera. Varlo out"

The Commander turned to Wraith and Whisper, who stood awaiting orders. The grizzled veteran thought for a moment on what would be the best course of action. They had a number of wardrobes on their shuttle, he would pose as a former merchant marine turned businessman and the myrmidons would be his personal guard.

"Pains me to say, let's lose the armor. Civilian clothes only, our gold cloaks are too recognizable now. I'll play the part of the businessman looking to meet his cousin, you two are my personal guards."

The two snapped into action, no words needed. They trusted the commander unconditionally.

And soon they were off, Varlo feeling ridiculous in silk robes, and the two warriors with him trying to stifle their laughter. However, as they approached the central plaza it was all business. When they arrived, Varlo peered around for his target, and when he spotted her, he put on the fakest, cheesiest grin he could.

"Tera! Cousin! How are you! We've all missed you so much! You call far too little!"

He yelled as he ran forward crushing her in a big hug.
whispering in her ear as he did.

"Too many eyes here, play it up and let's move quickly"

 

[Liin "Tera" Terallo]

Ah ha! There he is!

I did not gave to wait for very long. The one that I can only assume is Varlo approaches quickly calling me by my assumed name. No sooner could I answer him when he wraps his arms around me and gives me the biggest and tightest hugs that I have ever had. I drop my cases and return the hug in kind, although not as tightly for I haven't the strength to match his. "Careful cousin! I am far more delicate than you are. But yes, it has been much too long."

Only when he releases me do I pick up my cases once again. I flash him a big smile as I start to walk in the direction of where he came from while I played my part; blabbering on about nonsense. "Well look at you. You are still just as handsome as ever. So tell me how is everyone? The last reunion was full of drama. Is that expected again this year? Is grandmother still complaining that I have yet to find a husband? I swear that if she had it her way, then she would pick out one for me herself......"

On and on I would go, giving Varlo the chance to blabber on about things as well. And despite it all being fake, I find that I was rather enjoying the little improv session. It was kind of nice to feel like I was in some large family, when the opposite is true.

I do not drop the ruse until Varlo tells me to, which I can bet will not happen until we reach his ship. And I think that I can see it on the landing dock now.

Tag: Diarch Reign

 

[Diarch Reign]

​

Tags: Liin "Tera" Terallo

---

To his credit, Varlo played the part magnificently. Big grin on his face and chipper upbeat tone he answered her

"It's worse than you think! Grandmother has become so consumed with seeing you married before she passes that she has started reaching out to suiters herself. I should expect you'll be beating poor scoundrels off with a stick before too long!"

His tone was light, but his eyes scanned constantly. Reign said there was danger, and Varlo would be damned if he let anything happen on his watch.
As the shuttle came into view, Varlo picked up the pace a little, anxious to be back in the security of his armor and shuttle.

"We are clear, Wraith begin takeoff sequencing. Get us away from this blasted station. It may be paranoia but I could swear I felt eyes. I want us back in Diarchy space immediately."

He turned to his guest. Sizing her up fully for the first time. She was a small thing, compared to Varlo's large frame. When he spoke to her however, his voice was soft, as if consoling a frightened youngling.

"You must be awful important if the Diarch is sending me to fetch you. You should be safe now, there's just space between us and Bastion.. and the world is a fortress now. Beautiful, but secure. Try and relax, get some rest. My men and I will ensure nothing happens to you until you delivered safely to the Diarch."

 

[Liin "Tera" Terallo]

I do not remember ever meeting my grandmothers. Yet I am certain that either one of them would be trying to have me married. By all rights I should be right now, but I have not even been on a single date. I have kept my focus on my work and so there has been little time for anything else.

Especially now. Now I am living and working on the run. My research is just too important and too valuable for me to step aside from it for the sake of having a love life. And it is easy to surmise that anyone that got close to me would be putting themselves in danger. Someone could easily kidnap and blackmail me with their lives. Perhaps that kind of threat is another good reason for me to not have anyone get close.

Yet at times I do think about the 'what ifs'. Any lady would.

I bow my head in thanks to Varlo as he offers me a bit of instructions. "Thank you. My level of importance is....well that would be something to ask him. I will do my best to try to relax, although right now such a thing is a bit difficult. Do you happen to have any wine on board?" I plop down my two cases nearby in what looks like a spot that is out of the way of things.

Tag: Diarch Reign

 

[Diarch Reign]

​

Tags: Liin "Tera" Terallo

---

The soldier looked at the woman with a mix of kindness and pity. Being a friend to the Diarch had its dangers and it looked like this woman was no exception.

“I believe we have some Alderaanian red somewhere here. We keep it for when Diarch Rellik comes to visit.”

He disappeared briefly and returned with an unopened bottle of wine and a glass.

“Do try and take it easy, we’re Reign’s best of the best, nothing is going to get you here.”

As their shuttle made it through the cordon of defensive space stations around Bastion they flew to the special VIP hangar.

“Reign will be waiting at the government building. Not the grand forum but the admin buildings. He and Rellik have personal offices there”

 

[Liin "Tera" Terallo]

"Thank you." I reached for the glass and bottle as Varlo returns with them. He tries to reassure me with his words, but I cannot help feeling a little on edge. Afterall, my research is of the kind that could turn allies into enemies. I know of that well enough with the way my discussion over my research to Mister Dashiell had turned out.

After opening the bottle, I pour myself a glass and bring it to my lips for a long and slow sip. The vintage is a good one, with a rich and deep flavor. It was lovely. And certainly helped me to relax a little.

The trip felt longer than I am sure that it was, and I spent a lot of that time staring out of a transparasteel window watching the streaks of stars and just waiting for any sign that I was being tailed. So far there was none.

With the shuttle now landing, I rose to my feet and adjusted my dress. I had no mirror to use, yet I know myself well enough to tell when my appearance is perfect or not.

Varlo gave me his next set of instructions. For someone that has visited Bastion frequently; it would be the perfect instructions to give. But this is my first visit and the layout of the city, let alone the government buildings, is not one that I am familiar with. "If you could escort me and show me the way, I would appreciate it."

Tag: Diarch Reign

 

[Diarch Reign]

​

Location: Bastion | Ravelin City
Tags: Liin "Tera" Terallo

---

Varlo inclined his head slightly, he had grown fond of the woman on their short trip. He held his arm out for her to take it.

"Of Course, I told Reign I would deliver you personally, please it is this way"

As they walked towards a waiting hovercar, some more of the Diarchy's personnel leapt to provide security.
The vehicle was a hard top hover limo, one used for the transport of Diarchy upper echelon and respected dignitaries.

Varlo opened the door and motioned for his guest to take a seat.

As they flew through the city, Liin would be privy to all the wonders that the Diarchs had built here, parks and markets to military bases and skyscrapers. Under the rule of Reign and Rellik, Bastion had become a jewel in the galactic north. Not just a fortress world but a place trillions called home.

"The people here want for nothing, I've seen what came before Reign and Rellik came to power, I believe if the galaxy could see what they've done here, they would not resist or revile them so much."

The gruff voice had softened slightly while he spoke, it was not the voice of a fanatic, but one who had seen the destruction and war, and also saw what could come after it.

"I want to extend a heartfelt welcome, and let you know that should you ever need anything, anything at all, you can call me. Even if it is to talk of fake grandmothers"

They then landed at the government center, and took the turbolift up to the top floors. Where Reign, Rellik, and Maldor Sancetti all had personal offices.

Coming to Reign's they entered.

 

[Liin "Tera" Terallo]

An offered arm is taken gratefully. I hook my arm up with his own and walk right along side him. The awaiting hovercar is quite the treat for it has been some time since I could afford such luxuries. And as take my seat inside of it I cannot help but feel a pang of remorse over the direction that my life has gone. In the past these types of political visits full of fanfare were common. But now I had given that all up; and only to find myself working on a scientific breakthrough while on the run.

I listen quietly to Varlo while I observe the city as we pass by. It seems an odd thing to point out that others resist and revile the Diarchy so much. For that has not been my experience. But there has not been much that I have seen in regards to their tactics and methods when it comes to outside worlds.

As Varlo extends his welcome, I cannot help but laugh softly at the fake grandmother remark. And so I respond in kind; "Thank you. I truly appreciate it. And you played your part very well. Such a memory will always amuse me. I will be sure to pass on word of your incredible work to Lord Reign soon enough. He is very lucky to have you in his staff."

The hovercar came to a stop. I slid out of my seat and allowed Varlo to once again escort me. The government building reminded me somewhat of one of the government buildings in Ilic City. Oh the feeling of being homesick is real. Yet I shove that aside as we step into Lord Reign's office, putting on a well practiced smile.

Tag: Diarch Reign

 

[Diarch Reign]

​

Location: Bastion | Diarch Reign's offices
Tags: Liin "Tera" Terallo

---

As the door opened, the Diarch looked up from the reports in front of him. Their holographic displays flickering out as he stood.
As Varlo bowed and exited without a word, Reign moved forward, extending a hand.

"Liin, it's great to see you, I trust Varlo was decent enough company on your voyage? The old man can be gruff but he's got a heart of gold."

He motioned then to a seat at the desk, and as he poured himself a small glass of Corellian Whiskey, he took in the view of his friend.
She did look somewhat worse for wear, but it was obvious she had taken pains to not appear so.

With a softness in his eyes and voice, he motioned to the drink cabinet.

"May I offer you some wine? Please, help yourself, and tell me what you've gotten up to as of late. And what this danger you face is"

 

[Liin "Tera" Terallo]

As we entered, I could see that Lord Reign was busy. And as much as I hate to intrude or impose on anyone; I was invited to do so. So I should not allow myself to feel too badly in that regard.

I dip my head in thanks as Varlo makes his exit before I begin my approach to Lord Reign. He meets me part way and I place my hand in his, giving it a soft shake in greeting. "Thank you, it is good to see you as well. Varlo gave me a bit of a tour. He is a delightful man. I saw no hint of gruffness in him; a true professional."

The invitation to sit was made. However as soon as I was about to take it, so too came the offer of wine. It has seemed like forever since I last was able to have a glass and relax. Yet even now I know that I cannot fully let my guard down. Those days may never come again. But I approach the cabinet gratefully and pour myself a glass of dark wine; responding to his question while I did so. "Thank you. As you may have guessed, I had stepped away from politics and business once New Cov was invaded. And it is truly a breath of fresh air. However the research that I have dedicated myself to has caused quite a stir. I did not expect it to occur so early in the research stage; but as it is I have had to resort to building decoy labs to deter unsavory people."

With my wine in hand I allowed myself to have a large sip. It had great body and flavor which is what I was hoping for. I then pivoted on my heel and stepped over to the offered chair. Only then did I sit down; maintaining the grace and poise that I have always used. I may not be dressed as splendidly as before, but the lab coats, long skirts and blouses suit me. "That is what I require the extra funding for. It is to create one of those decoys."

Tag: Diarch Reign

 

[Diarch Reign]

​

Location: Bastion | Reign's office
Tags: Liin "Tera" Terallo

---

The Diarch listened carefully, he was aware of the loss of New Cov's independence. As he was aware of what transpired with the major powers of the galaxy. However, he had somehow managed to lose track of his friend. That alone was a feat as Reign usually maintained tabs in one form or another on all of his contacts in the galaxy.

"I was sorry to hear of New Cov's invasion. I'm glad you were able to get away unscathed."

He gave thought to the rest of what was said, decoy labs, secret research projects, and finally the reason she needed more funding.

"The funding you will have, the Diarchy is forever in your debt for the aid you rendered us in our humble beginning. I am willing to take this a step further should you need as well"

He paused for a moment thinking things through.

"As our influence has grown, many planets have come under our protection. I would offer you a permanent lab, should you want it, as well as round the clock security and access to the Myrmidons, the unit under Varlo's command, or perhaps a dedicated security force that you vet yourself."

He took another sip of his drink, before continuing.

"You can trust me Liin, you are my friend, all you need to do is tell me exactly what you want done, and we will do it. I can keep you safe, as I promised those years ago."