Private The Clone Zone

[Aurelian Veruna]

Location: Airspeeder, Denon
Tags: Sibylla Abrantes | Dominique Vexx

Aurelian watched Denon rise beneath the airspeeder, a city without edges. Towers stacked on towers, transit lanes braided through glass and durasteel, lights burning even in daylight as if the planet refused the concept of quiet. He rested one elbow against the frame of the window, chin tipped into his knuckles, mouth curved in a smile that suggested he was already planning trouble. This was the kind of place that thrived on momentum. It suited him.

Director Vexx's homeworld spread out like a promise and a warning. Denon did not pretend to be elegant. It was dense, efficient, alive. Aurelian tracked the movement below with a practiced eye, noting security corridors, industrial blocks, the way traffic subtly bent around certain districts. Cloning facilities would be buried somewhere in that sprawl, hidden in plain sight. Dominique's proposal would either become the backbone of their next phase or die under a mountain of practical objections. Today would decide which.

The thought of legacy surfaced, as it always did when he looked at cities. Not monuments or statues, but systems that endured. Programs that survived their creators. The Republic had taken everything he could give without complaint. Now it was loosening its grip. His term as Chancellor was ending. Naboo waited again.

Aurelian straightened and tapped the transparisteel lightly, drawing their attention. "I have never been to Denon," he said, looking towards Dominique, voice easy. "It reminds me of Coruscant. But better. I have a house guard from here, loyal man..."

He glanced to Sibylla, curiosity sharp beneath the charm. "Have you ever been here?"

​

 

[Sibylla Abrantes]

​

Location: Mmhmm...
Aurelian Veruna Dominique Vexx

Sibylla caught Aurelian's glance out of the corner of her eye and answered it with a very deliberate side-look of her own, the sort that said she knew exactly what game he was playing and had no intention of letting him win it. He was baiting her, plain as day, and he knew she knew.

"I have," she replied lightly, rolling her eyes as if the question bored her. "You know that already. You're just being facetious."

She turned then to Dominique, her expression warming as her tone smoothed into something genuinely fond.

"I greatly enjoyed my time here with Dominique. She was an excellent guide and introduced me to all the places one ought to see while visiting Denon."

Entirely accurate, just not complete.

A glance slid back toward Aurelian, brow lifting before turning to Dominique in amusement.

"Do not let him coax you of anything. He is attempting to draw conclusions where none are owed. All he knows is that I danced and that I enjoyed myself."

The corner of her mouth perked up in knowing.

"At this point, I think he's simply jealous I managed to enjoy myself while he was buried in Interim Chancellor duties until the early morning."

 

[Dominique Vexx]

Transportation was, of course, befitting the company. The supple leather seating of the vehicle was padded with the softest down, lathered in cream, and expertly stitched together. Unlike commercial there was plenty of leg room to the side and in front of the occupant. And, of course, there were insets along the sides where chilled refreshments could be kept available for those in search of something to wet the palette.

Dominique sat across from her companions with a smile and lilac glareshades turned nearly transparent so they could clearly see one another. There was nothing to hide. She did avail herself of a slender flute of bubbly, however, to occupy her hand and give off a certain poise for the moment. Not that she expected it to sway the minds of those present; it was just for ambiance. They should get the full experience, shouldn't they?

Flatterer, she thought, as Aurelian made a direct comparison to Denon's rival to stroke Dominique's ego. Of course, she didn't disagree. People continued to flock back to that accursed world, but that wouldn't stop Dominique -- or the Board, she suppose -- from helping people see just how much more they could get from a world that wasn't sacked every year.

The smile didn't waver, but her eyebrows rose just slightly to Aurelian's question. Not that a single muscle belied an interest in answering for Sibylla. The woman was capable of managing the fishing expedition. Dominique knew they interacted often enough to know one another's tells.

"I couldn't help myself. You were without a doubt radiant and enjoyable company. Not someone mired in duty to be present, but that explored the opportunities surrounding you." It had been quite enjoyable. Dangerous even. To be so revealing before another... They'd made a little pact in their time together hadn't they? Well, it was rather nice not to feel entirely isolated from the galaxy any longer.

"Well, if the Chancellor wishes to dance while he is here, I'm certain something could be arranged."

Aurelian Veruna | Sibylla Abrantes​

 

[Aurelian Veruna]

Tags: Sibylla Abrantes | Dominique Vexx

Aurelian turned from the window at last, the city's glow sliding off his features as he faced them fully. His smile lingered, slow and knowing, the kind that admitted nothing and suggested everything. Sibylla's deflection had been expected. That was the mark he was watching for.

"I would never be facetious," he said mildly, eyes flicking to her before settling back with easy confidence. "Curious, perhaps. Concerned for your moral wellbeing. Deeply invested in your extracurricular education."

The smile sharpened, just enough to give him away. He had known. Of course he had. Denon was not the sort of place one visited quietly, and Sibylla admitted to not coming here quietly, clubbing actually. Watching her pretend otherwise was half the entertainment.

He shifted his attention to Dominique, interest brightening. "I do not doubt that she was radiant," he said. "That part I can already picture. What I lack are the details." His tone turned conspiratorial. "Sibylla Abrantes, letting loose on Denon. I would very much like to hear that story from your perspective, Director. I suspect it differs from the edited version I am being offered."

His gaze slid back to Sibylla, amused rather than accusing. "You danced. You enjoyed yourself. That much is clear. Beyond that, I am forced to imagine." He paused, then added smoothly, "And my imagination is rarely charitable."

At Dominique's suggestion, he gave a soft laugh. "I could be persuaded to dance," he allowed. "Eventually. It would be irresponsible to deny Denon the experience entirely." He lifted a hand, palm out, signaling restraint. "But first, business."

The charm shifted into focus. He straightened, posture attentive, eyes back on Dominique with the weight of expectation settling in. "Tell me how the proposal is landing. Where the board stands. What concerns remain."

His gaze drifted briefly back toward the city below, already anticipating answers. "And the facilities," he continued. "I want your honest assessment. What works. What does not. If we move forward, I want no surprises waiting for us."

He looked back at them, smile returning, measured and intent. "After that, Director, I am entirely at your disposal. For dancing. Stories. Or both."

​

 

[Sibylla Abrantes]

​

Dominique Vexx Aurelian Veruna

At Dominique's compliment, Sibylla flashed a playful wink over at the Denonite's direction, her hazel eyes dancing with mirth at their shared secrets. Although it turned into actual laughter at the thought of Aurelian clubbing at a Denon nightclub. She had felt out of place until Dominque helped her try to blend and told her to just let go and enjoy herself.

For some reason, she couldn't picture Aurelian amidst all the lights and the gyrating music playing in the background. Although the way his eyes flicked over to her and that maddening smile perked up at his comment regarding his interest in her extracurricular activities, and where his imagination went was enough to give the slightest hint of pink over her cheeks. Thankfully, the shadows of the speedercar were enough to hide it.

At least she hoped.

Deciding to take one of the drinks provided, Sibylla opened a bottle of water, using the time to follow up with, "Well, considering all that nonsense with the Senator of Malastre trying to invoke an archaic rule to relieve Aurelian of his interim Chancellor duties is enough to make anyone need a well-deserved bit of entertainment."

There was no need to withhold the information from the Denonite. Sibylla and Aurelian both trusted her and knew this was important information the Denonite would want to learn in advance.

"I would expect Senator Ravion Corvalis to broach it to the Senate shortly, as he already has submitted it to me to review and vet." A pause, and then she gave a short exhale after taking a sip of water.

"I have been meaning to talk to you about him, Dominique. My mother praises him to me at every mention of him, but something feels off."

 

[Dominique Vexx]

What Aurelian thought he knew, or knew, of those events would go hitherto unremarked by the Denonite. Especially given neither of my guests sought to dwell on it. With reason. There had, in fact, been dancing, but where they danced and 'extracurricular' subjects engaged with before and after they danced... that was where the truly remarkable matters lay. Not that anyone had need to know what transpired. It was uplifting to know the man cared so much for her 'education' though. And, of course, amusing to think Aurelian suggested something scandalous might have transpired with his insinuation.

"What happens on Denon stays on Denon," Dominique replied off-handedly, but with a smile. An otherwise true proverb with just as much left unsaid. What happened on Denon stayed on Denon wherein it involved a Cyber Runner's hangout. Everything else was merely best effort; what with those Runners trying to worm their way in to everything.

Aurelian's dare to be invited to dance warranted Dominique's full and complete attention. A smile invited him to regale them with his skills at that. A topic for them to revisit after business, as he said. Not one soon forgotten either. After all, even with things turning as they were, she hardly thought of the man losing value. They were of a kind, Aurelian and her. This was when he was slighted by those he thought to elevated. As someone known for taking matters into their own hands already, Dominique expected he would orchestrate a response so any perceived loss was compensated.

Her golden eyes slid from Aurelian to Sibylla and then back again. Talk of Ravion might go at length, whereas the Cloning project had natural pauses in conversation; and so the Director began there. "The Board expressed concern. After all, the High Republic hasn't committed to a procurement of services officially at this point. Ultimately, they succumbed to the obvious truths. Kamino is no longer a regional power able to monopolize services. Denon is well positioned to take up that loss on this side of the galaxy. And, most importantly, should the High Republic not pursue the venture," there was a slight shrug of a nod acknowleding at times cards did not always land as planned, "Denon will find other partners to make use of the facilities." So there was no risk of a failure to recapture their expenditure or failing to securing a profit; though admittedly other factions might not submit as large an order as Aurelian sounded inclined to offer, so it might take longer.

Dominique turned to look out the window and smile to herself. "Did you enjoy the fly-over?" She slowly turned to look back at Aurelian and Sibylla. Their vehicle had sailed right over the facility just a moment ago. A small jest at how unassuming it was should anyone come looking. A smart adversary would know where to bomb, but you had to contend with... less professional elements as well. "I arranged a meeting with its Executive Officer, if either of you would care for a tour. Obviously there isn't an army down there for inspection just yet, but there could be. Several subjects have been produced to run the full program through from start to finish in the meantime -- those are available for examination."

Then, the Director turned her attention to Sibylla. "Ravion Corvalis. His movements certainly have all the hallmarks of a plan. I've tasked a few analysts with discretely looking into matters. Not nearly to the extent I pursued the Five Veils Trade Route," a little admission of having pursued it at all as little more than a footnote, "but he has my curiosity. I would be delighted to hear what feels 'off' about him, knowing him far better than I."

Aurelian Veruna | Sibylla Abrantes​

 

[Aurelian Veruna]

Tags: Sibylla Abrantes | Dominique Vexx

Aurelian listened without interrupting, attention shifting easily between them as the conversation sharpened. Dominique's proverb earned a quiet breath of laughter. "What happens on Denon stays on Denon," he repeated, testing the words. "A dangerous philosophy. I find those places tend to be the most educational." His eyes flicked briefly to Sibylla, amusement warm and unapologetic.

He turned back to Dominique as the business settled in. The levity did not vanish, but it tightened into something purposeful. "The Republic will commit," he said calmly. "You have my word on that. We are past the stage of theoretical interest." His gaze drifted to the window, recalling the brief glimpse of the facility below. "We simply need to see it with our own eyes. Systems. Oversight. Practical realities. Once that is done, the procurement will move forward."

He nodded once. "A tour would be welcome. Expected, even. If we are building something meant to endure, I want to understand every layer of it."

The mention of Corvalis pulled his focus back sharply. The smile thinned, not gone, just tempered. "I do not like him," Aurelian said without hesitation. He folded his hands loosely, thinking aloud. "He is too attentive. Too invested in my movements, my authority, my timing."

A faint shrug followed. "Do not misunderstand me. People fixate on me all the time. I am captivating." His eyes lifted, intent now. "But Corvalis watches like he is waiting for something to slip. Like he wants to be present when it does."

He glanced to Sibylla, then back to Dominique. "That does not mean he is incompetent or reckless. Quite the opposite. Which is what concerns me. If your analysts find anything, however small, I want to know."

The speeder began its descent, the city rising to meet them. Aurelian straightened, the earlier amusement returning in measured form. "So. We tour the facility. We confirm details. We finalize terms." His smile resurfaced, dangerous and bright. "After that, perhaps Denon can educate me as well."

​

 

[Sibylla Abrantes]

​

Aurelian Veruna Dominique Vexx

Sibylla's lips curved as Dominique repeated the proverb, and she turned just enough to flash the Director a conspiratorial wink. What happens on Denon stays on Denon indeed. Some lessons, after all, were best learned without witnesses.

The Abrantes' attention slid back to Aurelian at precisely the wrong moment for him, catching his remark about fixation. The faintest snort escaped her before she could stop it, quickly disguised behind a polite breath.

"Yes, well," she said sweetly, "your ability to command attention is truly unparalleled. I am certain entire star systems lie awake pondering you." Tawny eyes sparkled as she looked at him with apparent fondness and exasperation in equal measure.

"Do forgive me if I fail to be suitably impressed by the notion." She teased as she shook her head once, the smile lingering because it always did with him, especially considering their circumstances. His confidence was infuriating, undeniable, and infuriating again. Worse, he wore it with that charming face and that maddening knowing smirk, as though the galaxy itself had personally confirmed his opinion.

When the conversation turned back to Corvalis, Sibylla's expression sobered as her amusement faded away. She drew in a slow breath, fingers lightly drumming over her thigh as she spoke.

"What unsettles me is not his background," she said carefully. "Origins are rarely the problem. It is the timing. He advances too quickly and offers too much reassurance far too readily as though Naboo should be grateful for his presence rather than merely cautious of it." Her brow furrowed. "From the Senate attack, to the convenient fall of his predecessor, to his sudden elevation… it is all just a shade too neat."

She gave a slow shake of her head that swept her chestnut hair over her shoulders.

"I cannot yet name it, but my instincts insist there is more to him than he presents. And instincts, I have learned, are rarely so persistent without cause." She added as she agreed with Aurelian. "I can show you both the proposal he will be setting forth to the Senate to remove Aurelian from the Interim Chancellorship. Perhaps you can find something of interest there to determine where to look."

"But for now, a tour of the facilities is precisely right." She glanced sideways at Aurelian again, brow arching with playful intent. "Afterward, we can discuss just what Denon might teach the good Chancellor beyond procurement protocols."

As the speeder descended and the city rose to meet them, Sibylla leaned back slightly, flashing the pair a cheeky smile. It was a sight to behold, truly, for the once strictly composed Daughter of Abrantes to smile so openly at them both.

Time and their friendship had softened the edges around Sibylla, allowing her to open herself up to discover not only her true self underneath, but that she didn't have to perform or pretend with either Dominique or Aurelian.

A circumstance that Sibylla was truly, utterly, so grateful to Shiraya for.

 

[Dominique Vexx]

Dominique's smile broadened at Aurelian's reassurances. Building a new vertical of industry -- especially one to abide by all the ethical requirements inherent to it -- was not cheap; it was a sizeable investment. The sort Denon would be required to recoup its investment in regardless of customer. It would be most appreciated if it were with a friend. After all, if the one mandating above-board satisfaction pulled out there was a historic trend of such studious adherence to lofty ideals being replaced by sheer practicality.

"Rest assured, you will have full auditing access." Obviously not full system access. Select auditors could be given the full examination, but certain bits of data could not -- in any way -- leave the premises. Cloning was an exact art, but not one unique to a particular company. With the right research data, design specifications, and someone smart enough to follow instructions the heart and soul of their industry could be stolen right out from under them. Naturally, the loss of such intellectual property would not be allowed; nor the risk of such occurring.

The ship began to circle around and descend toward the facility as they spoke of Ravion.

"He focuses on public perception. A wise tactic. The Champion of the People. Dazzle them with tales of fighting for them in a corrupt system while intending to profit from that very system once certain elements are brushed aside. For the Republic's sake, I hope that isn't what he intends." Dominique's eyes shifted to Aurelian and back to Sibylla. Her friend seemed to have concerns of her own; though she wasn't entirely sure of what nature. Obviously, the Director of Denon knew of the matters she spoke. The Executive Board -- and herself -- had used the very same or similar strategies to control the masses. Though, to a degree, Dominique liked to think she was being honest in promoting the elevation of all Denonites. Not that they would all become filthy rich with floating mansions or island resorts, but somewhere 'respectable' to call their own at least. A lack of concern where food for their table would come from. The fundamentals to avoid a repeat of Darkwire. It was a lofty ambition easier said than done, but she would try.

"I would be happy to share our findings, of course," she replied in response to Aurelian's interest. It needn't be said that she hoped the same would be true if they uncovered anything. Why ask for what they'd already begun to share? And should they unseat Aurelian? Dominique wasn't short sighted enough to cut someone lose because of something like that. She'd lived through something similar. You would be surprised just how much influence you could exert when the entire galaxy wasn't watching your every move.

Once their transport landed, the wide lifted to permit them to depart. Dominique held out a hand to invite her guests to go first.

Standing on the landing platform were three figures awaiting their arrival. The one at the fore was a Chiss male with the ramrod posture one might expect. To their right stood an Arkanian man with hair as white as fresh snow; and to their left a bright-skinned, horned Theelin woman.

"High Chancellor Veruna. Queen Abrantes. Director," the trio bowed in unison at their approach. "I'm delighted you could make the time to tour our facility. I am Chief Executive Val'enkas. With me are my Chief of Development, Arren Jatheed," he turned his upper body slightly and gestured to the Arkanian, "and Chief of Instruction, Khae Nevro," and another indication of the Theelin followed. "We heard you are interested in hearing about our developmental and educational operations, with some interest in our administrative infrastructure as well." There was no question to his voice, but it was an opportunity for Aurelian to clarify what it was they wanted to see now that they were there; whether that was more or less than the advance indicated.

Lysander von Ascania | Sibylla Abrantes​

 

[Aurelian Veruna]

Tags: Sibylla Abrantes | Dominique Vexx

Aurelian's smile widened at Sibylla's snort, catching it without missing a beat. He tipped his head toward her, eyes bright with amusement. "You wound me," he said lightly. "I cultivate mystique with great effort."

Her shift in tone drew his full attention. As she spoke of Corvalis, Aurelian's humor faded into something quieter. He listened closely, committing her concerns to memory. Timing. Advancement. Gratitude demanded too early. Neat stories always hid messy truths. He had learned that lesson young, and painfully.

"I agree," he said once she finished. "Too neat is rarely accidental." His gaze drifted briefly toward the descending city, thoughts turning inward. Corvalis wanted him watched. Measured. Removed at the right moment. Aurelian had no intention of being convenient. "Show me the proposal later. I want to see how he frames the argument. What he emphasizes. What he avoids."

The speeder settled, and Aurelian rose smoothly as the doors opened. The facility stretched before them, clean and unassuming, exactly as Dominique had promised.

Three figures awaited them. Aurelian assessed them in a glance. Discipline. Precision. Pride. He returned their bow with an easy inclination of his head, practiced and sincere. "Chief Executive Val'enkas," he said. "Thank you for receiving us."

His eyes moved briefly to each of the others as they were introduced, committing names to memory. Development. Instruction. Administrative control. A solid triad. Encouraging.

"You heard correctly," Aurelian replied. "I want to see the full arc. Development through instruction, and how oversight is maintained once the process is complete." He smiled, polite but intent. Internally, he felt the familiar pull of curiosity sharpen. This was where legacy lived or died. In systems that held under pressure.

He gestured lightly toward the facility. "Lead the way. Impress me."

​

 

[Sibylla Abrantes]

​

Location: It is cloning time!
Aurelian Veruna Dominique Vexx

With the matter of Ravion Corvalis set aside for deeper inquiry, and with Sibylla promising to send the proposal prepared that would allow Aurelian to step away from the Interim Chancellorship and return fully to his crown while the Republic moved toward appointing a permanent leader, the moment arrived to turn their attention to the cloning facilities.

As they approached and introductions were made, Sibylla's hazel gaze moved calmly across the assembled figures -- Chief Executive Val'enkas, Chief of Development Arren Jatheed, and Chief of Instruction Khae Nevro. Her expression remained cordial, attentive, giving nothing away while missing very little.

"A pleasure," she said, inclining her head as they were guided onward.

She lingered half a step behind the others, choosing observation over immediacy, committing details to memory in silence. The question of ethics brushed against her thoughts then. Clones raised for a Grand Army had proven contentious before. History had not been gentle in its judgments. Yet droids, too, carried their own shadows.

YEt there was no denying that the High Republic needed the ability to defend itself now more so than ever. But that always begged the question -- what rights would these clones have? Would they be expected to serve the Republic Grand Army all of their lives or work through a way where they could serve their time and then live thier lives as Republic Citizens?

Perhaps this visit would offer clarity. Or, at the very least, refine the questions so the answers could be gleaned from them.

Professional first, then a more relaxed environment after.

 

[Dominique Vexx]

The Chiss had the subtle, knowing smile of his people on his lips as Aurelian confirmed where their interests lay. "If you'll follow me, I'll be happy to guide you through the facility. Mister Jatheed and Miss Nevro will accompany us along the way to answer any technical questions you may have." He pivoted on his heel, one arm crossed behind his back with the other gesturing to the site ahead. "To be clear, our premiere customers are always afforded an open record policy. Should you wish to validate everything you've seen today, you will be free to do so any time. Our company will strive to publish, in advance, any... maintenance periods where in-depth auditing may not be possible due to limited resources; to avoid any faction from misconstruing a declination as being a means of avoiding oversight."

Dominique looked over at Aurelian from behind her lilac glareshades. "There is an extra fee associated with such freedom of information -- to offset the resources they'll need to facilitate such reviews. It helps deter everyone in the galaxy from demanding such a level of openness that would bring their enterprise grinding to a halt. Customers with limited purchases certainly wouldn't need anything so thorough. A full write-up is available complying with certified auditing standards for those that wish to ensure at least a certain level of moral, ethical, and administrative standard is upheld."

Val'enkas chuckled as his precisely measured gait carried them through the outer doors that led from the landing pad into the facility. "The Director was kind enough to put us in contact with a number of very reputable supply chain vendors. For the Republic, we've waived the fee for the first year as a result. You are our primary customer, after all."

Arren grunted. "Perhaps we should begin in the laboratory," the Arkanian interjected with a gruff tone. All the administrative talk was hardly intellectually stimulating; especially with neither party trying to outwit the other. "The beginning."

"We shall proceed from start to finish as the Chancellor requested. The security and administration aspects will be saved for last," their Chiss Executive acknowledged.

The interior was spotless with some signs of being fresh installation. None of the doors stuck opening or closing, so the most dreadful of bugs didn't mar the tour. The laboratory, meanwhile, was fully stocked and quite expansive. In fact, the facility bolstered three different lab sections to avoid disruption to research and development for any reason, and to accomodate multiple orders. Even the various safety measures were highlighted to demonstrate the company took the safety of its own employees quite seriously.

The army of vats where clones were made extended far, wide, and toward the expansive ceiling of the incubation section. Various mechanical arms would help move tubes around with mobile circulation able to sustain occupants while in motion. At the same time, thin walkways lay between the tubes at the higher levels if it became necessary for personnel to visit in purpose for any reason.

They'd pause in each area to provide time for the guests to ask any questions on their mind. Next were where clones would live and receive instruction.

Aurelian Veruna | Sibylla Abrantes
Chief Executive, Val'enkas | Chief of Development, Arren Jatheed | Chief of Instruction, Khae Nevro​

 

[Aurelian Veruna]

Tags: Dominique Vexx | Sibylla Abrantes

Aurelian walked at an unhurried pace as they entered the facility, hands loosely clasped behind his back. The place smelled new, sterile without being cold, which told him as much about intent as it did about funding. Someone cared how this looked.

The talk of open records caught his attention. He glanced to Val'enkas, then to Dominique. "Auditing access with notice," he said. "Reasonable." Internally, he noted the fee structure. Transparency always came with a price. He preferred it stated plainly.

He let the executives lead them into the lab, eyes lifting as the space opened up. Rows of vats stretched upward, orderly and immense. "How early do you begin cognitive development?" he asked, gaze steady on the incubation chambers. "And how much variance do you allow?" He turned slightly toward Khae Nevro. "Instruction shapes loyalty. I want to know what you teach before they ever hold a weapon."

As they moved deeper, his questions sharpened. "Service terms," he continued. "Defined or indefinite?" His tone was calm, but his attention was absolute. "If they serve the Republic, what comes after? Citizenship. Choice. A life beyond utility."

He paused at a railing overlooking the vats, resting his hands against it. Internally, he weighed the answers he expected against the ones he hoped for. An army could be built quickly. Trust took longer. "I will not authorize a force that exists only to be spent," he said quietly. "That path ends badly. For everyone."

He nodded at the layered security. "And containment?" he asked. "Both physical and informational. If someone tried to interfere, extract data, compromise growth cycles. How fast do you know, and how hard do you respond?"

​

 

[Sibylla Abrantes]

​

Dominique Vexx Aurelian Veruna

Sibylla kept pace beside Dominique and Aurelian as they moved through the facility, her hazel eyes taking everything seen and said with a quiet intensity. She listened while Aurelian questioned and the directors answered, noting the confidence of their explanations but also trying to discern anything underneath that could be hesitation or more to the eye. The rows of vats stretched overhead in neat, unbroken lines, impressive in scale but just as unsettling in implication.

It made her think of Fenn Stag and how he had spoken regarding his brothers. How they had been bred for war and defense, and then how that had broken him in turn. A shadow darkened her eyes and when a pause naturally presented itself, Sibylla spoke with a gentle and composed tone, but one that carried a firmness that invited consideration from the group rather than debate.

"If I may," Sibylla began, eyes lifting from the incubation chambers to the assembled directors, "I would like to ask about matters beyond efficiency and output."

The young woman gave a thoughtful tilt of her head, "Clones, after all, are not machines. They think. They feel...and they remember."

She clasped her hands loosely before her as she held her gaze steady towards the Directors.

"What provisions exist for their mental and emotional well-being? Not merely in training, but over time. How do you address stress, identity, or the quiet toll that service inevitably brings?"

And while there was a brief pause, there was no mistaking her intent.

"If a clone begins to struggle, what support is offered? What care is extended?" Her eyes softened, though her resolve did not. "Service given freely is one thing. Service endured without recourse is another."

Sibylla's attention drifted once more to the vats before returning to them.

"I have no wish to see an army that endures only in body," Sibylla added quietly. "I would rather know how you ensure they remain whole in mind as well."

 

[Dominique Vexx]

The pale Arkanian turned to regard Aurelian with the same sort of regal aloofness the King himself presented. Perhaps a touch stiffer. "Immediately."

Which led the Theelin, Khae, to quickly add, "What he means to say is we begin fostering their cognitive development as soon as their initial acclimation is completed. And if you allow him, Arren will drone on about his accelerated growth cycle and genetic memory. He claims it'll make him a candidate for the Queen Amidala Artisanal Prize." A face-splitting smile was cast over at the stoic scientist.

With a soft clearing of the throat, Val'enkas cast a look back at the pair. "As our guests may be aware," he said patiently, "the Spaarti cloning process is significantly faster than the Kaminoan technique. There were, however, drawbacks. Chief Jatheed has pioneered a means of implanting genetic memory into the clones so that while the body may grow rapidly, the mind has a solid collection of basic skills when they emerge. Unlike the Spaarti, we won't try to implant an entire lifetime worth of memories; instead we'll form those and their cognitive functions out here," the Chiss gestured to the facility around them, "organically."

"Which means we have full control over what to emphasize in terms of philosophical outlook and lifetime priorities. Given a chance to explore within the bounds of the program, any natural variances allow individuals to migrate into fields best suited to them." Khae added; her demeanor was by far the more upbeat of the trio.

Val'enkas looked to Aurelian with that expectant and proud Chiss glow to his eyes. "Service terms? Indefinite. Once they leave the facility they would be in your capable hands. Should you require assistance after they have left, there are additional programs, but we are ill-equipped to take back an army's worth of clones, Chancellor. If your intention is to naturalize them after service, you will have no objection. Provided, of course, the clone accepts your offer." After all, if they prioritized free-thinking that always meant the end game might turn out differently than originally imagined.

A slight turn of the head and Val'enkas' gaze shifted toward Dominique.

"I had a number of well adjusted slicers and professional soldiers -- those looking for new prospects -- chosen to fill out this facility's security, Chancellor. I cannot express what value was expended in doing so. I would gladly have persuaded them into some of my personal initiatives for Denon, but a handful tasked to ensuring the security of our latest industrial achievement seems a wise investment." Dominique smiled over at Aurelian and Sibylla. "They, of course, hired and trained others to fill out their ranks. Rest assured, they will respond accordingly to any attempt to intrude upon this facility." What else could they expect? This was Denon, after all. Industry and Security were their trademarks -- and not always for the best reason.

The group slowly turned their collective gaze to Sibylla as the young woman called attention to herself.

"We have professional counselors, physciatrists, psychologists, and even a few telepaths to help support both clone and staff alike," Khae replied without hesitation.

The Arkanian quietly harrumphed off to the side when she mentioned the telepaths. It earned him a knowing look from the Theelin.

"As the Director mentioned earlier, part of my role is to ensure the continued development of the clone after they leave Chief Jatheed's care. Not only physically, but mentally and emotionally as well. Much like a work of art, it isn't enough to just hang it on your wall for the elements to wash its splendor away."

"The Director stressed the Republic's desire for a morally and ethically sound practice when she approached us with her proposal. An ambitious requirement that required considerable research and planning. We are confident, however, that it will ensure the clones are able to live a long, prosperous, and fulfilling life provided they're in good hands." As Val'enkas had said earlier, once they left they couldn't control what the customer did. So if there were ethical concerns after development that would be on the Republic to satisfy. All the facility could do was enable the countless possibilities in fashioning a well-adjusted sapient entity.

Aurelian Veruna | Sibylla Abrantes
Chief Executive, Val'enkas | Chief of Development, Arren Jatheed | Chief of Instruction, Khae Nevro​

 

[Aurelian Veruna]

Tags: Sibylla Abrantes | Dominique Vexx

Aurelian let the silence stretch after Sibylla spoke. He did it deliberately, giving her questions the space they deserved. He watched the directors as they answered her, not with suspicion, but with focus. This was not a line of inquiry he would have led with. He knew that. Armies, logistics, outcomes. Those were his instincts. Sibylla's concern cut sideways through the problem, and he found himself grateful for it.

As the answers came, his posture eased. Not relaxed, but satisfied. Telepaths. Counselors. Long-term care. Choice. None of it was perfect, but it was thoughtful. Intent mattered. He had learned that systems built without conscience always collapsed inward.

"Good," Aurelian said at last, voice quiet but firm. "That tells me you understand what you are creating." He glanced briefly at Sibylla, a flicker of approval passing between them before he turned back to Val'enkas. "An army that survives only in body is a liability. To itself and to the state that commands it."

He stopped briefly near the instructional wing, eyes following the layout. "You will provide us with a full outline of the philosophical framework," he said. "Civic responsibility. Republic law. The right to refuse unlawful orders." His gaze sharpened. "Those are non-negotiable."

At the mention of indefinite service, he considered it, then spoke carefully. "Service will have defined terms on our end. Renewal by consent, not assumption." He met Val'enkas' eyes. "Citizenship will be offered. Declined if they choose. That choice must be real."

They resumed walking. Security details earned a nod of approval. Experienced hires. Layered response. Fast escalation. "I expect discretion," Aurelian added. "And restraint. This facility does not become a provocation."

"So far," he said, a smile returning, measured and genuine, "you are answering the questions I did not know how to ask."

​

 

[Sibylla Abrantes]

​

Dominique Vexx Aurelian Veruna

Sibylla listened as the answers came, letting her mind muse on them as she followed along as they moved onward, pausing at the overlooking gallery where the clones below were gathered for a meal. Her gaze softened as she watched them.

They were not uniform copies, not an army of mirrors. There were differences in posture, in expression, in the easy way some leaned together in quiet conversation while others ate in companionable silence. Orderly, yes, but unmistakably alive.

It was… good to see.

Sibylla turned first to Dominique, offering her a pleased, approving smile, before her attention shifted to Aurelian. There was reassurance in her expression now.

"I am pleased with the answers and the results," she said simply. "If we can maintain regularly scheduled reports and prudent oversight, I have no objections."

Her gaze lingered once more on the clones below, thoughtful but no longer troubled. This, at least, felt like a beginning she could stand behind.

 

[Dominique Vexx]

"The specifications of the Clone's makeup, training, and freedom remain in the hands of the customer. In this case, the Republic. It's a mutually beneficial arrangement ensuring there is no dissatisfaction toward the end of their intended service. They should be compatible with whatever environment they will reside in long-term."

Dominique looked over to Sibylla as she expressed similar satisfaction. "Intellectual property and trade secrets aside, this facility has nothing to hide. No cut corners. No off-the-book activities. I assure you, in good time Denon will be renown for its cloning services just as Kamino itself had been."

"Far be it from me to dispute the Director," Val'enkas added with a Chiss' dry humor. "What she says is true. With her generous assistance, we have a premiere facility operational, and its expansions will constructed in the near future."

Jatheed coughed softly off to the side. "Yes, the additional room will enable us to rapidly spin up even a large force. Should the," a notable pause ensured and he drew in a deep breath, "unforeseen occur." His eyes slid over to Val'enkas and Nevro as if to ask if that had been up to their expectations. Marketing and sales were not his specialty. It pained him to explain the obvious, and dance around the even more obvious. The unforeseen was obviously war! But in 'polite' company...

"Several facilities are planned off-world," Dominique clarified. "To prevent the Republic's enemies from disrupting its means to respond by striking a single target." And to distribute the risk of such attacks so Denon didn't have the galaxy's largest target painted on it. It already was a notable target given its industrial power, but striking the 'barracks' of the enemy was slightly more effective than merely taking out a few arms factories.

The tour would continue and ultimately end up in the far less... notable locale of the administrative area. Where the audits would find all the personnel and records to pour over day after day in an effort to find some sign the facility was programming the clones to attack Jedi or whatever people were worried about these days.

Perhaps they'd adjourn to a nice conference room for some light refreshment and the opportunity to talk casually about whatever was still on Aurelian's and Sibylla's minds. Dominique was grateful things had gone so well thus far. She'd trusted these able people to the task, but one could never be certain until the product was delivered.

Aurelian Veruna | Sibylla Abrantes
Chief Executive, Val'enkas | Chief of Development, Arren Jatheed | Chief of Instruction, Khae Nevro​

 

[Aurelian Veruna]

Tags: Sibylla Abrantes | Dominique Vexx

Aurelian paused at the gallery railing, following Sibylla's gaze as the clones gathered below. He watched them eat, talk, exist. Not identical. Not hollow. Alive in the small, ordinary ways that mattered. Something in his chest eased. This could work. More than that, it could last.

He nodded once at Sibylla's assessment. "Then we are aligned," he said simply. Oversight. Reports. Accountability. All manageable. All necessary. Hearing about off world facilities drew a genuine smile from him. Distributed risk. Redundancy. Foresight. He liked foresight. It meant fewer emergency sessions and fewer graves.

"Multiple sites is wise," he added, glancing to Dominique. "It keeps enemies guessing and allies sleeping better at night." Internally, he filed it away as another reason this partnership made sense. Denon thought like a power that intended to survive.

By the time they reached the administrative wing, the tour's intensity had bled into something calmer. The conference room was quiet, polished, private. Once the doors closed and it was just the three of them, Aurelian dropped the formality without apology. He leaned back into the chair and kicked his boots up onto the low table, folding his hands behind his head.

"You have done well for yourself," he said to Dominique, tone easy and sincere. "This is no vanity project. It is disciplined. Thoughtful. Dangerous in the right ways. Denon should be proud."

His eyes shifted to Sibylla, amusement flickering. "Now," he continued lightly, "while we did want to see the operation with our own eyes, that was not the only reason we came all this way."

He let the silence hang, then turned his head toward her. "Care to take it away?"

This had to be handled gently. No pressure. No spectacle. The Chancellorship would soon be vacant, and the Republic needed someone capable, credible, unafraid of the weight. Dominique fit that profile too well to ignore. Sibylla knew how to ask without forcing an answer. That was why this part was hers.

​

 

[Sibylla Abrantes]

​

Aurelian Veruna Dominique Vexx

Sibylla settled back into her seat as the speeder leveled out, the privacy of the moment finally giving her time to breathe. A quiet sigh escaped her, and she lifted a hand to rub at her forehead as composure slipped just enough to reveal the strain beneath it.

She brought her datapad up to pull up the documents Ravion had sent her to review and approve.

"As I mentioned," she began, turning toward Dominique, "Ravion Corvalis is maneuvering with the clear intention of removing Aurelian from his position as Interim Chancellor." Her tone remained calm, but there was no mistaking the seriousness beneath it.

She lowered her hand, fingers folding neatly in her lap.

"Neither Aurelian nor I are seeking to move forward as Chancellor candidates. Not now. We were only just elected to our current roles, and it would be both premature and irresponsible to the people of Naboo suggest otherwise."

A brief pause followed, her gaze thoughtful as she genuinely brought up the question that was at the root of the matter. Without any news or indication on the whereabouts for Kalantha, and the longer it took to find her despite all the effort the Republic was using, they all knew this moment would come.

"So should Ravion succeed in forcing such a vacancy, the question becomes unavoidable -- the need for a new High Chancellor." She glanced at Dominique, wondering what she would think of it, "Would that be a path you would consider? I do not doubt Ravion will strive to appear above reproach, but I do not trust him to resist using the opportunity to his own ends."

And while her expression soften, there was no denying the steel of resolve underneath.

"And I would rather ask the question plainly and have a plan than be caught unprepared by the answer. Not with the way the galactic currents are turning even more chaotic by the day."