Invasion Total Eclipse of the Heart || Objective 1: And I Need You Now Tonight

[Velzari Tharn]

O B J E C T I V E - 1
W I E L U

(Senators, Vigos, and Diplomatic Types)

The Corporate Council of Wielu is a prime example of successful Corporatist governance in the Republic, but make no mistake: a true Corpo can’t ignore the allure of extra credits.

For centuries, Wielu’s tropical climate and pristine beaches have attracted the galaxy’s most influential figures, from senators and nobility to corporate executives and trade princes. Crystal-blue waters, exotic landscapes, and high-class resorts make Wielu an indisputable powerhouse of the tourism industry, a boon that the High Republic enjoys now that the planet rests within its borders… but for how long will they benefit from the cash flow?

On Alekie Island, the Corporate Council meets with a benefactor that appears too good to be true. The First Bank of Nar Shaddaa whispers in their ear, offering exclusive trade agreements with subsidiaries, premium lines of credit, and even private security contracts to ensure all of the above is well-protected along hyperlanes connecting Hutt Space to the Corporate Sector. All they have to do is secede from the Republic, a small price to pay for the staggering economic freedom they will experience as an “independent system” with financial backing from the private sector.

Little do they know, the bankers and investors are deep agents of the Black Sun crime syndicate. Will the Republic dissuade the Corporate Council from taking the deal, or will the Underworld sink its teeth into the idyllic tropical world?

Black Sun: Credits are the root of all evil and greed is the vessel that holds it. The Corporate Council is wealthy, but its members realize that their pockets could be much deeper if Wielu were independent. Luckily for them, the First Bank of Nar Shaddaa specializes in facilitating such freedom. Dominate the board room, make the Corpos an offer they can’t refuse, and outplay the Republic senators at their own game.

High Republic: The Corporate Council may be skilled businesspeople, but they don’t know what they’re getting themselves into. The First Bank of Nar Shaddaa is hiding something behind smiles and enticing business deals. Find out who’s backing the deal, convince the Corpos to remain loyal to the Republic, and rescue Wielu from a disastrous arrangement.

 

[Aurelian Veruna]

Objective 1​

Aurelian moved like a man who had never known fear, only performance. The doors of the diplomatic wing hissed open, and he swept through them, his crisp jacket of polished obsidian silk flaring behind him with just enough drama to be intentional. The tropical breeze filtering in from the open windows caught the ends of his dark curls, giving him a windswept look like he'd just descended from some romantic painting of a naval prince.

Sibylla, of course, was just behind him. Always poised, always the "good" one, the diplomatic face which really just meant she was better at pretending not to manipulate people. He trusted her in these situations, but he still held his cards close to his chest. Walking beside her, like some loyal Gundark of a man, was Cassian Abrantes. Aurelian gave him the usual side-eye, the one that silently asked why are you still breathing in my vicinity, before casually adjusting a gold signet ring he didn't remember putting on that morning.

"Tell me again why you're here, Abrantes," Aurelian murmured, without looking at him. "And try not to say it's for the view."

The polished marble hallway of Alekie Island's summit pavilion stretched before them, pristine, luxurious, and intentionally decadent. Around them, high windows framed the glimmering coastline below like a painting from a lost age. Yet, the tension in the air was thick enough to chew.
He felt it first, like a ripple in the wrong direction. The usual noise of activity was subdued, too clean. A lone Veruna Guard in black armor stepped toward them, his polished boots clicking too loudly on the stone. He wore the tight expression of a man trying to look professional while realizing he might already be dead.

"Lord Veruna," the guard said, giving a short, practiced bow. "Apologies, but we've lost communications with the cruisers. Planetary channels are down across the sector. It's likely just interference, weather-related."

Aurelian's smile vanished like a shutter closing. "Mm. Of course. Interference." He dragged the word out, letting it hang like a noose. He turned slowly, his eyes glinting like twin sabacc chips flipped mid-game. His voice dropped, soft and pointed. "Cassian. Sibylla. Are your comms functioning? Or are we all just wandering into a HoloNet dead zone for the thrill of it?"

He already knew the answer. He could feel it. The silence behind the walls, the twitch of the guard's jaw, the way the breeze outside had died, everything was too still. The council chamber was just meters away, behind those double doors, where the most powerful corporate minds in the galaxy were eagerly discussing whether to sell their souls to a smiling bank and a loaded blaster. But something was wrong. Very wrong.
Aurelian's instincts were dancing in his skull. This wasn't the kind of danger that screamed and charged. This was the kind that waited behind a smile, like a banker offering a loan with a clause written in blood. He glanced at Sibylla, then Cassian, his face unreadable.

"Something's off," he muttered, almost to himself. "They've either already sold us out, or we're late to the ambush."

He stepped forward, toward the chamber doors, every step slower now, deliberate. His smile had returned, but it was the kind of smile you gave to a krayt dragon while holding a vibroknife behind your back. Not quite polite. Not quite sane.

"Let's hope they hear our offer," he said, without turning. "Before the jammers start playing the funeral march."

Sibylla Abrantes | Cassian Abrantes​

 

[Sibylla Abrantes]

​

O B J E C T I V E - 1
W I E L U

Interacting with: Aurelian Veruna Cassian Abrantes


The hush before disaster always had a kind of terrible grace to it.

That was Sibylla's first thought as her boots touched the marble, the soft swish of her skirts brushing against her legs like a whisper. The gown she wore shimmered like evening light on water, a layered shell spider silk that moved delicately but wasn't as fragile as it looked.

Each step would reflect light upon the white gold and gemmed threaded filigree hairnet curled through her pinned hair and upon the necklace of pearls that rested upon her chest and dangled from her ears.

Experience had taught her plenty now. And while Sibylla did not dress for war overtly, she'd learned that war had a habit of dressing itself in silk and civility recently when it came to Naboo.

She walked behind Aurelian with Cassian beside her, all protective strength and caution, reassuring in a way that only a brother who'd take a blaster shot for you could be.

Which of course meant Aurelian was, naturally, already finding reasons to be difficult by asking Cassian why he was here. Sibylla didn't stop her graceful amble, but her brow arched just a fraction at the query.

"Must we really do this?" she asked, glancing between them. "If you two insist on bristling like Nexu cubs every time you share a hallway, I will place forth my recommendation for both of you to oversee the refugee encampment audits on Arba."

She let the idea hang. If there ever was a more boring world to be foisted upon, Abra would be it. Endless forested hills and Hoojibs akin to small rodent rabbits trying to build nests in your boots. Not to mention the endless amount of paperwork. Maybe it would teach them cooperation.

Or maybe they'd throttle each other.

The thought made the corner of her mouth twitch upward. But only for a second, because the guard approaching them had the look of a man who knew things were already going wrong.

He had the pinched, constipated expression and walk that indicated he knew what he had to relay wouldn't be received well. Sure enough, as he spoke, the words came with a ripple of unease that ran straight down Sibylla's spine.

Sibylla's brow gave a slow arch at the news -- Interference, indeed.

"Is that so?" she murmured, glancing toward the tall windows, where the sea and sky met in an unbroken line of calm. "I wasn't aware a light coastal breeze could scramble half a sector."

Seeing as how her commlink was a very important factor in her daily tasks and communication efforts, both professional and personal, Sibylla's fingers brushed her commlink, the ring she wore on her hand catching the light. She thumbed it once, twice. Nothing.

Not even static.

Dead silence.

She looked back at Aurelian, catching the faint tension in his jaw. His expression hadn't changed, but something behind his eyes had.

"Nothing on my end," she said aloud, her voice even despite the thrum in her chest. It wasn't panic. Not yet. Just focus, tightening like a cord. So when Aurelian muttered, Something's off, she gave a small, certain nod.

Of course, the change in Aurelian was noticeable, predatory. Just as quickly as he mused on the implications, thoughts raced through Sibylla's mind.

"This is the Corporate Council of Wielu... there is no chance they would risk not being able to check their stock prices. I am sure they will try to rectify it. If not, well.. that certainly is telling." Sibylla murmured, following Aurelian as he strode forward.

"If that is the case, we will adapt as necessary." Her heart-shaped face swiveled over towards Cassian, "Do you think you can investigate if there is another method of getting in contact with our diplomatic ship if necessary? It is best we plan for all outcomes."

A half smile, "Don't worry, I can protect myself better now," she assured her brother. "I've a few new ways to."

After that, Sibylla let out a slow exhale, and then she straightened her spine, determination sparking within the golden flecks in her hazel eyes.

"Well then, let's remind them, gentlemen," she said, eyes forward, "That Naboo did not rise to its place in the galaxy through decorum alone."

x | x | x | x | x | x
​

 

[Viktor Sylvain]

Wielu

“Well isn’t this a most precarious situation,” Viktor said in an accent so crisply Imperial you’d have thought him an Eaduan rather than a Denonite. His posture, too, was reminiscent of a Moff, but the tiny red pin on his lapel gave away immediately that Vik was—and likely always would be—a true-blooded Corpo.

He stood before the Corporate Council of Wielu with one arm folded behind his back and the other bent at the elbow as he looked at a datapad in his hand. Despite being the best that credits could buy, not even his top-of-the-line device could cut through the convenient interference that had plagued him since his ship entered the system.

“Looks like we’ll be doing this the old fashioned way,” Vik mused. He wore a charming smile, but the room was not nearly as eager to do business as he was. It mattered not; the Corporate Council was beholden to the CSA, and by extension, to Viktor. This was a fact that kept them quietly observant rather than outraged by the political climate they faced.

Viktor slid his datapad into his suit jacket, tucking it neatly in a pocket before finding a seat at the large polished conference table. He eased into the cushion, impressed with its quality. From touch alone, Vik could ascertain the thread count. Leave it to the Corpos to spend more on a chair than they paid the help, he mused.

“Right then,” the Denonite said, watching the crowd behind red-tinted glasses. “I’m here on behalf of the Direx Board to serve as a mediator of sorts. Seeing as Wielu’s current senator is away from your beautiful planet and we’ve no way to contact her thanks to the strange interference, I shall stand in for her and help to resolve this matter as quickly and peacefully as possible.”

He didn’t ask if that suited them because he didn’t care. A resolution was all that was required of him, and considering the CSA’s unique system of local governance, it didn’t matter which party between the First Bank of Nar Shaddaa or the Republic Senate was the ‘victor.’ All that mattered was an expedited continuation of Wielu’s presently interrupted profits.

Tags: Aurelian Veruna | Sibylla Abrantes
​

 

[Dominique Vexx]

OBJECTIVE ONE

Dominique stood off to the side amidst a small gathering of delegates. She smiled and laughed comfortably as they socialized. They'd digressed from the matters that'd drawn the entire crowd to this very chamber long ago. A deal was a deal, but there were no surer deals than those conducted between friends. Relationship building was paramount at the upper echelons of society, and there was nothing better for that than idle banter and finding out what people really wanted in life.

Dressed in a crisp, white jacket and pants, the Direx of Denon rather enjoyed the tension that'd been there from the onset. Nothing was more boring than a sure thing. In fact, there'd be no reason for someone of her authority to attend if a delegate would have sufficed. No doubt Wielu appreciated that as well. Everyone enjoyed a little acknowledgement, and a tourist planet might feel overlooked from time to time. Taken for granted as it were.

A humorous situation. Taken for granted. If this Corporate Council of Wielu wasn't careful they'd be taken for fools instead. Not that the Hutts couldn't conduct proper business; they certainly could. Denon had no more a problem welcoming Hutts on their world as they did Sith; why they even had a Hutt consulate back home. But if there were one thing you could count on it was corruption and exploitation. Things not at all unfamiliar to those used to business dealings on Denon. But what Wielu did have with the Republic were the guardrails that came with a representative democracy and all its moralizing. A constant tug-of-war the likes of which Dominique had tried to build between Direx and Darkwire years ago. Tension wasn't to be avoided, but used.

Suddenly, Viktor Sylvain seemed intent on addressing the Council. Dominique and the group around her quieted for a moment to hear what he had to say.

A finely plucked brow hiked a hair at Viktor laying claim to representing the Direx Board, and how he'd be standing in for Wielu's Senator.

With his pronouncement made, Dominique absently remarked, "What a poorly timed interruption. Fortunately, your off-world holdings are in good hands." Whether Wielu went with Nar Shaddaa or the Republic wasn't a matter that directly affected the Authority; but the stability of the Republic could affect Denon, and so Dominique had an interest in keeping the tampestry from being unwound too greedily. If anything, she could find ways of leveraging the Republic to Denon's advantage.

Despite the reassurances, however, Dominique was concerned. A loss in communication might result in certain contingency plans activating. Poorly timed they might be detrimental to her purposes. On the other hand, why had the signal been lost? Corporate greed could at times result in a lack of redundancy or adequate staff to avoid brief service loss, but the timing was... suspect, and Dominique didn't think Wielu nearly as frugal as certain parties on Denon. Until news reached them, however, she'd have to continue on the basis it was just a localized, temporary disruption.

"In fact, Pericles Systems has a new communication Lynx network that may be of service to a prosperous Wielu. Rapid, latency-free holo-services not only keep visiting parties in touch. Meanwhile, Wielu's very own financial interests would enjoy the freedom of communicating with their partners without needless oversight."

Viktor Sylvain | OPEN
Aurelian Veruna | Sibylla Abrantes​

 

[Decarii Tithe]

CONFERENCE ROOM #2
CORPORATE COUNCIL, WIELU

Annasari | Mauve

The economy of Wielu had thrived under the protection of the High Republic, and in no place was this better reflected than the headquarters of the Corporate Council.

The sprawling complex of office blocks, meeting rooms, and data centres had been crafted from luxurious, imported marbles adorned with handcrafted fittings. Esquisite draperies decorated the wide corridors while priceless artworks hung in the offices of senior decision-makers. Even the refreshers, often designed with utilitarian practicalities in mind, were carefully curated. The sound of traditional Wielu steel drums played quietly in the background as visitors were treated to lush hand towels and the waft of the building's sweet, signature perfume.

A woman exited one of the stalls and made her way to the wash area, where she cleansed her hands in the sonic basin. She looked up at the holomirror and rubbed the bridge and side of her nose, sniffing sharply. She took a moment to adjust her hair before using her glamstick to touch up her makeup.

Satisfied, Decarii Tithe returned the glamstick and a small, orante vial into her bag.

Here we go.

The Aargauun exited the refresher and made her way to a nearby executive board room, her heels clicking on the marble floor. This part of the complex, usually bustling with Corporate Council executives and middle managers, was all but empty, home only today to three parties - the Council senior leadership team, officials from the High Republic, and representatives of the First Bank of Nar Shaddaa.

“Executive Councillor Durnas,” Decarii exclaimed with fake enthusiasm as she entered the meeting room and greeted the elderly man seated at the head of the table. “We came as quickly as we could when we heard the news, and I appreciate you finding the time to meet us on such short notice.” Decarii took a seat next to the grey-haired executive, the type of person she would not normally acknowledge in a social setting.

“Now I know I’m early but, I wanted to have a moment with you, alone. This business with the First Bank of Nar Shaddaa - I know the Archcouncilor’s infrastructure project is running over budget, and with busy season around the corner the pressure is on. But I’m certain we can find a way for the High Republic to extend you a loan on terms that work for you, terms that work for us.”

Decarii produced a datapad from her bag and slid it around the desk toward Durnas. She had already taken the liberty of drafting the necessary legal documents to ensure the High Republic remained the one and only financial backer of the Wielu corporate council. If she could cut the First Bank of Nar Shaddaa out of the picture before their representative arrived, this unpleasant business might be over before lunch.

“A quick signature and we can put all this unpleasant business. No more talk of refinancing with outsiders. The High Republic will be out of your way, and you can get back to what’s really important - making yourself filthily rich.”

 

[Cassian Abrantes]

OBJ-1 Wielu
Sibylla Abrantes Aurelian Veruna

"Tell me again why you're here, Abrantes,"

"And try not to say it's for the view."

"Honestly I'd much prefer the Naboo sunset. Beats this place by a longshot. And why do you ask questions, when you already know the answer." Cassian let out a small sigh. Cassian was clad in the armor of the Royal Defense force and fully armed. Why, because in situations like these there were spies and enemies everywhere.

"Must we really do this?"

"If you two insist on bristling like Nexu cubs every time you share a hallway, I will place forth my recommendation for both of you to oversee the refugee encampment audits on Arba."

Cassian smirked as he caught a glance of his sister and he gave a very simple nod. "My apologies, Sister." Cassian chuckled lightly, as they moved on ahead. Being as cautious as he was, he was already raising his hand to his comlink when he heard static, and then seemingly radio silence.

"Cassian. Sibylla. Are your comms functioning? Or are we all just wandering into a HoloNet dead zone for the thrill of it?"

"Nothing on my end,"

"Same here...." Cassian shook his head, as he gave a casual glance around. This wasn't just a normal situation, comms were jammed for a reason. To isolate them from the others and those on the outside. He was well assure that there was something close by that was jamming their comms.

She seemed to read his mind as she she spoke.

"Do you think you can investigate if there is another method of getting in contact with our diplomatic ship if necessary? It is best we plan for all outcomes."

"I'll look into it, perhaps find the source of this disruption and take it out of commission."

He smirked at her as she spoke of defending herself.

"Don't worry, I can protect myself better now,

"I've a few new ways to."

"Regardless, Aurelian......" Cassian gave a small smile and nod. "If your flamboyant self, can look after Sibylla. That would be appreciated."

"Any more of this protection of my sister and I might also support your claim for the throne." Cassian spoke just as he was walking off. And thus came a mild and hearty laugh. "That was a joke."

 

[Arcadian]

"Greetings," Arcadian said as he entered the boardroom. He was flanked by several representatives from the First Bank of Nar Shaddaa, as well as the Zeltron Mauve who, unbeknownst to many in this room, was one of Black Sun's four Vigo Majores. Behind her were several others aligned with the Bank and, by extension, the syndicate - a fact that brought a wolfish grin to the helmeted man's face.

It had been some time since he last parlayed with the Royals, who happened to no longer be so regal. Tatooine to be precise. Mos Algo. Cade looked forward to besting them this time.

The Ubese examined the room carefully, running his fingers along the backs of several empty chairs before settling on one near Viktor Sylvain and the rest of the Corporate Council. He eased himself into the chair and laid a datapad on the table before him. It's screen glowed with lines of information, mostly numerical, that would be of interest to the Corpos.

"I am Arcadian," he introduced. "These are my colleagues. Bankers, investors, and strategists. We represent the First Bank of Nar Shaddaa." He glared through his visor at the Republic delegation. "And if there are no more... unanticipated guests," he said, "I believe we are ready to begin."

Tags: Aurelian Veruna | Cassian Abrantes | Decarii Tithe | Dominique Vexx | Mauve | Quinn Varanin | Sibylla Abrantes​

 

[U40a]

Crystal-blue waters, exotic landscapes, and high-class resorts make Wielu an indisputable powerhouse of the tourism industry, a boon that the High Republic enjoys now that the planet rests within its borders… but for how long will they benefit from the cash flow?

On Alekie Island, the Corporate Council meets with a benefactor that appears too good to be true.

ALEKIE ISLAND RESORT
WITHIN AUDITORY RANGE OF SUMMIT LOCATION

The Black Sun audio droid U40a, known as Euphortia to some, took casual but unchallenged possession of a Coruscanti destination wedding's speaker system and began appropriate theme music for the day.

Euphortia had been given a distinct brief: irreverent, sly, crunchy, lighthearted. It now filled that brief and the island air with a wailing one-two punch that aimed for thematic dominance.

 

[Annasari]

CORPORATE COUNCIL CHAMBERS
CONFERENCE ROOM 2
ALEKIE ISLAND, WIELU
Decarii Tithe

​

The door slid open as Decarii was already at work on Durnas. A united front would have been preferred, but the commlink kept throwing errors when she attempted to contact the legal consultant. Comms must be down, her staffer had informed her, stating the obvious. Annasari did not even have the bandwidth to snap. The foreboding of the words uttered quieted all feeling but intense focus. The senator was able to catch the end of the coercion as she walked in. She had chosen a suit and heels that painted her the stalwart executive. Carefully curated, to remind the council she too was like them. Sitting herself across from Decarii, Annasari interrupted the stuttering protest she sensed forming on councillor’s lips.

“May I remind you, Executive Councillor, these terms are reserved for member worlds. The Republic cherishes their own. We prosper together. Advisor Tithe has your very best interests at heart - and your bank account.”

A flash of a smile revealed teeth, and the woman made an exaggerated gesture to motion at herself. She was living testimony to subdue any doubts they had in their financing needs.

“It is for that very reason myself and the Trade Federation chose the High Republic as the home for Rimward Logistics. A free market - and knowing exactly where you stand - are good for business.”

 

[Mauve]

"I am Arcadian," he introduced. "These are my colleagues. Bankers, investors, and strategists. We represent the First Bank of Nar Shaddaa."

And this particular investor wore a black on black ensemble with gold rings, gold earrings, and a gold necklace. A subtle yet intentional color combination, sable and or. Yellow and black. The colors of the Syndicate. Mauve was mostly unarmed, in the sense that she did not waltz in wielding a blaster like some of these other vagabonds might. She did, however, have a very specific ring, with a particular gemstone, should it be needed. She also wore a bracelet that doubled as a miniaturized personal shield generator when activated. Very limited use, but… what was it they said? Better to have it and not need it then to need it and not have it.

Beside Mauve stood her manservant, the Nikto named J’dor. He dutifully pushed forward a trolley. What was on the trolley was impossible to say, as it was swathed in a scarlet blanket, but apparently some sort of bulky object by the shape of it. Mauve stepped forward behind Arcadian, appearing utterly at ease despite the weight of these negotiations.

Violet eyes studied each of the councilors in turn, mentally ticking boxes. Everyone had their own little vice. You didn’t get to this level without finding a way to cope. None of them were pure bastions of goodness and generosity, much as they might outwardly front. That one had no less than three mistresses - the pictures Mauve had dug up, ugh, they would be delicious as blackmail. And this other one with the pinched expression and sallow features was concealing a long-term illness from his family. And that one in the far seat was embezzling money from her own charity, how perverse.

Mauve’s painted lips curved up in a smirk, which faltered slightly as she counted.

Wait a moment. They were missing a councilor. Where was Durnas?

Mauve’s smile turned glassy. She turned to J’dor. “Stay here with the device. Do not let anyone reveal it before it’s time.”

The Niko nodded stoically.

Gliding away, Mauve slipped back through the doors and into the hallway, eyes narrowing as she almost ran into a familiar figure just outside the board room.

Quinn Varanin

 

[Quinn Varanin]

//: Mauve //:
//: Hallway //:
//: Jacket //: Attire //:

Quinn had received an invitation to this meeting. It surprised her, but it seemed to be related to her recent involvement with the DeathDrop group. There was obviously another reason, particularly involving a certain Zeltron, who appeared to be unable to keep her mind off the Echani Princess.

Said Princess would be lying if she said she didn't enjoy the attention and the game they played.

Gracefully, she removed the coat, fingers working the thick belt that cinched it closed. One of the associates of the Syndicate moved to assist the woman, as she shrugged off the coat. A smile exchanged as she returned to the conversation she was having with an interesting individual.

He seemed far too interested in her funding. Naturally, she didn't mention her title. A few well-placed laughs, a coy compliment, and the gentle touch of her hand on his arm had him forgetting all about it. He melted, and Quinn was free of the banker's curiosity.

Out of the corner of her eye, she spotted a walking red flag—also known as Mauve.

Her attention faltered. Despite her best efforts, the Zeltron captured it fully.

With a smile, Quinn excused herself from the man and turned to face Mauve as she appeared down the hallway. The woman hadn't answered her last message since she interrupted Quinn's paperwork.

Quinn didn't hide her intention as she walked down the stretch of the hallway. Her steps were in a perfect stride, the way she enunciated the beauty of the fabric against her porcelain skin.

One hand lifted to gently rest against her jawline, the other poised across her waist. That dangerous, flirty smile bloomed just for Mauve.

"You should be more careful showing up like this." Quinn purred, stepping in close enough that her breath lingered warmly against the Zeltron's skin.

"I might think you missed me."

 

[Aurelian Veruna]

Aurelian didn't bother hiding the grin that slid across his face when Cassian fired off his parting jab: "Support your claim for the throne." The gall, the bravado, the sincerity so deeply buried in the joke it was practically printed in italics.

He turned just slightly, offering Cassian a slow, dramatic wink as the man began to peel away. "I'll take immaculate care of Sibylla," Aurelian said with too much charm to be comforting. "I've been told I'm excellent under pressure and impossible to corrupt. A... model gentleman."

He leaned a little closer to Sibylla as they resumed their pace, murmuring just low enough for her to hear, "I didn't know you needed a babysitter."

The doors to the boardroom loomed ahead, all polished grain and understated menace. You didn't have doors like these unless you were trying to remind people how expensive it was to get through them. He slowed just before reaching them, taking a final moment to fix his cuffs and glance sideways at Sibylla. His expression softened, just for a moment, a flicker of something real behind the usual performance. He trusted her to play this well, maybe even better than he would.

Then the moment snapped shut, and his usual grin returned like a switch had been flipped. "Let's make an entrance," he said. The doors opened.

They entered not like diplomats, but as if gravity had shifted to accommodate them. The air in the boardroom was immediately thicker and colder. The kind of cold that smelled like durasteel and too many credits in one place. Aurelian was the first of the trio through the threshold, his stride easy, confident, not at all rushed, though by any other measure, they were late.

"Well," he announced to the room, "we would've arrived sooner, but it appears someone decided to test a planetary-wide blackout just to humble our delegation. Very clever. Ten out of ten on the dramatics, one out of ten on the hospitality." He let his gaze sweep the room, and his smile thinned. There were too many suits in this room, and not enough flags.

He hadn't expected a friendly welcome, but what greeted him was not just businesslike, it was unseemly. The Zeltron at the far end of the table didn't even pretend to hide the smirk she wore like a badge. The bankers were stiff and polished and soulless. Then there was him, the Ubese, he had vaguely heard about. Aurelian's brows ticked upward slightly. Really? They brought a criminals to a boardroom? He didn't falter; he never faltered.

He stepped further in and gave the kind of bow that said, yes, I'm mocking you, and yes, I look better than you while doing it.

"Aurelian Veruna," voice smooth as a Naboo fountain. "Future King of Naboo. Prince of Parrlay. First of His Name in diplomatic nonsense and savior of half a dozen trade deals that would've gone very sour without my charming intervention. Apologies for the delay."

He slid into the nearest empty chair, not far from Dominique, close enough to speak, not close enough to seem clingy. His voice lowered as he turned slightly toward her. "Senator Vexx," he said, conspiratorial, "What thrilling chaos have I missed while being rudely locked out of the galaxy? And please, don't say financial projections. I'm not dressed for graphs."

The glow from Arcadian's datapad caught his eye. Too many numbers. Too little accountability. The kind of display designed to hypnotize board members while you robbed them blind. He leaned back slightly in his chair, crossing one leg over the other with a casual elegance that suggested he belonged here more than anyone else in the room. He rested one arm along the side of his seat, the other loosely across his lap, fingers drumming idly against his knee. The smile never quite reached his eyes.

Still, something was wrong. The weight in the air, the hush beneath the small talk. Black Sun was here. Not in theory. Not in whispers. In presence. In the kind of silk-covered steel that didn't just hint at violence, it dared you to ignore it. Aurelian glanced toward Sibylla, just for a moment. It was all still a game, but the board was bleeding.

Sibylla Abrantes | Cassian Abrantes | Viktor Sylvain | Arcadian​

 

[Mauve]

Conference Center Hallway
Attire
​

"You should be more careful showing up like this." Quinn purred, stepping in close enough that her breath lingered warmly against the Zeltron's skin.

"I might think you missed me."

A thrill tingled down Mauve's spine and her heartbeat quickened. She drank in the sight of the princess of Eshan, whose dark attire echoed the cut of a robe, daringly loose at the front and nothing but the soft curves of taut, ivory skin beneath that funneled Mauve's gaze along a narrowing v, down, down, down. No doubt exactly as intended. And Mauve fell for it. How could she not? The Varanin reeked of desire.

"Quinn," Mauve rasped, then she shrugged a bare shoulder. "I could say the same of you."

Violet eyes looked past the woman, studiously avoiding the way the gossamer thin sable fabric of Quinn's sleeves looked transparent in the right light.

"Have you seen Councilor Durnas? He was supposed to be-" Mauve felt a swirling of emotions from the second conference room, a build up of anxiety and stress that felt brittle and acrid, like battery acid. "There... I need to deal with this first. You can help. And maybe then we can discuss..." she trailed whispering fingers across Quinn's arm as she walked past, "who missed who."

The door to Conference Room 2 slid open, admitting the two women in their stygian dress, and revealing quite the sight. Durnas sat with two Republic officials, clearly under double pressure. Some sort of datapad in front of him.

"Well, well, well, and here we were looking for a spare room to discuss..." she glanced at Quinn, "...business. And it's already occupied."

Without so much as a by-your-leave, Mauve glided forward and sat on top of the table, beside Durnas, craning her neck down so she could look at the datapad and her feet dangled off the floor. Purposefully ignoring the other two, who by their looks and auras of outrage were no doubt some sort of Republic politicos, Mauve read the title of the document open on the datapad.

"What's this? Oh my. Loan documents. You weren't about to sign these were you?" She lightly shoved Durnas' thigh with a heel, and gave a silvery laugh, "naughty dog."

For the first time, Mauve looked over a bare shoulder at the two Republic officials, in their smart business attire, professional, starched. High powered business women. Straight laced and well-versed in boardroom battlefields. A smirk curled up Mauve's painted lips as the smell of jasmine grew thick and cloying in the room.

They didn't stand a chance.

Quinn Varanin Annasari Decarii Tithe

 

[Dominique Vexx]

When the doors opened and Arcadian with his entourage of suits appeared, Dominique looked away from the clique she'd surrounded herself with for only a moment. Just as quickly she turned back to those she was conversing with. "You're concerned about the state of the Republic Fleet?" she repeated. "Fortunately, being our," Denon's, "neighbor means you don't need to worry about such things while the Republic's orders are fulfilled. We would naturally come to your aid should anything happen." Provided Wielu could get a signal out, which at the moment they could not. "Denon has been producing ships since well before any government standing today was founded. We provide them to customers all over the galaxy, including ourselves. The Corporate Sector Authority isn't blind to just how turbulent galactic affairs can be."

Shame the Republic likely didn't see things the same way, of course. Call upon Denon's self-defense forces to aid in an incursion? No, no, no. The Fleet could handle it. No doubt a lesson to be learned if they all survived the day. One of several.

Then Arcadian addressed those assembled and the Director drew in a breath and turned her head slightly in his direction. "Unanticipated?" Nothing more needed said. An idle rumination, nothing more. Just enough to draw attention to the fact the planetary system did neighbor the economic powerhouse of Denon; there shouldn't be much unanticipated by their presence nor that of the Authorities. Just because Dominique happened to be a Senator shouldn't unnerve anyone.

Then the trio of Republic-specific delegates arrived. They were a capable bunch and together with Dominique they certainly could represent the interests of the Republic. Dominique's eyes slid back to those near her, and she politely excused herself to 'meet' their new guests. Now that things were about to kick off it would be better if everyone took their places.

Dominique stopped with her hand on the back of her seat when Aurelian Veruna introduced himself as the Future King of Naboo. It was on brand. And then he kept talking. No sound or expression was issued before she took her seat with Aurelian soon finishing his introduction. She'd trust it was a calculated move on his part despite the seemingly needless self-promotion.

After he had settled in and leaned in her direction, Dominique replied to his whisper, "Not at all, Future King of Naboo," she had smiled as her head turned to regard the man. "Arcadian only just arrived and introduced the bankers of the First Bank of Nar Shaddaa. In the meantime, I've been introducing our friends to some of Denon's latest products and listening to their concerns. And now I think you're just in time to hear about their actuary tables." She was tempted to ask what they might know of the communication loss, but didn't want to hold up the proceedings or give others the wrong impression.

Arcadian | Aurelian Veruna | Cassian Abrantes | Sibylla Abrantes​

 

[Arcadian]

“Future King,” Cade rasped, “is not a title I’ve encountered before. I see people swinging the weight of thrones that are not theirs, but these men are usually self-proclaimed pirate kings… not Kings of Naboo.” The Royals had a home court advantage on Wielu, but only barely - the planet was an Alliance world not even a year ago. It was only beholden to the High Republic through obligation to the CSA. Obligations could be broken, and Black Sun was quite persuasive.

“Apologies,” the majordomo went on to say, “for the difficulty you experienced entering the system.” Behind his helmet, his face bore a wolfish expression. Predatory, almost. For a change, he was glad his scarred lungs required a breathing apparatus. Otherwise, he might have struggled to hide his eager grin.

He would have eyed the shrouded device Mauve was responsible for it if would not have drawn too much attention. For the moment, Cade wasn’t sure anyone had noticed its arrival. This made him grin more, though he spoke plainly through it without revealing his grim pleasure in the syndicate’s plan.

“The First Bank was not expecting Republic visitors in our meeting with the Corporate Council.” He turned slightly toward Viktor Sylvain with a soft tilt of the head. “But we would never refuse a competition. Better for business to best a rival than win a game with no players.”

Tags: Aurelian Veruna | Cassian Abrantes | Decarii Tithe | Dominique Vexx | Mauve | Quinn Varanin | Sibylla Abrantes​

 

[Decarii Tithe]

CONFERENCE ROOM #2
CORPORATE COUNCIL, WIELU

Annasari | Mauve | Quinn Varanin

Decarii could feel the anticipation growing as the Executive Councillor reviewed the contract she had presented. While the Aargauun was calm and collected to an outside observer, wearing a straight face that most elite sabaac players would envy, she could feel the excitement building. In moments, this nasty business with the First Bank of Narr Shaddaa would be behind him. Another legal victory would be chalked up to her name and etched into the galactic statute books.

The Senator for Tatooine joined Decarii in the conference room, applying the right amount of pressure to close the deal. The two had practised their routine on the flight over: Decarii, the good lawyer, and Annasari, the bad senator.

The Wielu official reached for the stylus, seemingly happy with the terms the High Republic had put forward. Only through years of courtroom practice did Decarii have the self-control to refrain from sitting forward in her chair in anticipation.

At that moment, the conference room door opened with a hiss, admitting the two representatives from the Bank of Nar Shaddaa.

Decarii clenched her teeth as Mauve and Quinn Varanin sauntered into the room, causing Councillor Durnas to put down the stylus. The term ‘representatives’ had been used liberally by the Republic Intelligence Service to describe the Zeltron and Echani pair. It was impossible to imagine either of them sitting in a loan approvals office calculating monthly repayments for a speeder tech. There was one thing that Decarii, Annasari and the RIS all agreed on.

The two were trouble.

The High Republic needed to seal the deal, and fast.

“We were just showing the Councillor the High Republic’s latest offer,” Decarii replied, her voice losing the warmth she had been applying to the Wielu official. “You’re welcome to review the offer. I think you’ll agree the terms are most generous. And frankly, refinancing a loan of this magnitude is much easier than going with another provider. But… the Corporate Council is a free agent, and well within their legal rights to approach the market for a second quote.”

"Sorry, I didn’t catch your name - it’s the First Bank of Nar Shaddaa, correct? You’ll have to excuse me, I’m not super plugged into the, ahh, smaller regional banks out this way. It’s just, you know, always a bit of a risk going with a lesser-known provider. Cheaper rates, sure, but do they have the backing, or is it all just a karking house of sabaac?”

“But hey, I’m sure everything is tight over your way. House in order, Republic-compliant, no known criminal ties. It’s just, the name you know. Nar Shaddaa. Doesn't exacly conjure images of financial stability does it?” She figured the more time she could spend referencing the criminal world, the better.

 

[Rathmar Praji]

"Are you certain that you know what you are doing Vigo Praji. The Corporate Council of Wielu could be an important asset to the Trade Federation's expansion into the High Republic. To have them leave the Republic now would be disastrous for our profit margins in the region." Senator Sentapoth Findos 's voice seemed to drone endlessly in his ear as the Vigo of Ruusan navigated the corridors at a steady pace.

The Neimoidian was a worrywart yet there was a valid point to be made in that the First Bank of Nar Shaddaa had the credits but they weren't experts in finance.

"Do not concern yourself, Senator Findos. I will ensure that proper care is taken to ensure that Wielu becomes a prime location for your business interests." He replied with a thin smile as he swiftly approached the first chamber without much fanfare, having taken a different shuttle from the rest of the Bank of Nar Shaddaa to confer privately with the Federation's envoy.

 

[Velok Brokentusk]

the headquarters of the Corporate Council.

The sprawling complex of office blocks, meeting rooms, and data centres had been crafted from luxurious, imported marbles adorned with handcrafted fittings. Esquisite draperies decorated the wide corridors while priceless artworks hung in the offices of senior decision-makers. Even the refreshers, often designed with utilitarian practicalities in mind, were carefully curated. The sound of traditional Wielu steel drums played quietly in the background as visitors were treated to lush hand towels and the waft of the building's sweet, signature perfume.

The Aargauun exited the refresher and made her way to a nearby executive board room, her heels clicking on the marble floor. This part of the complex, usually bustling with Corporate Council executives and middle managers, was all but empty, home only today to three parties - the Council senior leadership team, officials from the High Republic, and representatives of the First Bank of Nar Shaddaa.

Sitting herself across from Decarii, Annasari interrupted the stuttering protest she sensed forming on councillor’s lips.

The door to Conference Room 2 slid open, admitting the two women in their stygian dress, and revealing quite the sight. Durnas sat with two Republic officials, clearly under double pressure. Some sort of datapad in front of him.

VELOK BROKENTUSK
BOUNTY HUNTING LICENSE #006
SEEKING: 5 million credits
TOGGLE: Verified

APPROACHING CONFERENCE ROOM 2
Mauve Quinn Varanin Annasari Decarii Tithe

By someone's design, this part of the island's corporate complex was quiet just now. Velok wouldn't have cared much if he'd encountered people — at nine foot six and nine hundred pounds of Whiphid boar with a trenchcoat and an upscaled Geonosian sonic blaster, he was not especially stealthy nor did he maintain those expectations — but the stillness was nice, the view contemplation-apt, the decorative plants tasty.

Unerringly, he followed the blood trail freckles with which he'd marked Mauve on Ruusan.

In a region of conference rooms, he breathed deep. His cavernous nostrils picked up a Zeltron in full bloom. He sneezed prodigiously and thought with longing of a magnificent sow he'd known a hundred years ago on Toola. Ah, memory.

He wiped his nose, readied the sonic blaster, and headed down a lovely hall. He intended to knock at the door of Conference Room Two.

 

[Annasari]

CORPORATE COUNCIL CHAMBERS
CONFERENCE ROOM 2
ALEKIE ISLAND, WIELU
Decarii Tithe | Mauve | Quinn Varanin | Velok Brokentusk

​

Contempt lined Senator Vahl’s face as she looked their visitors up and down. Dressed for a nightclub - or a brothel - it was clear their expertise did not lie in business. Whoever they were, they were not walking into the Bank of Nar Shaddaa day after day. Her chair rolled around, to see around where the zeltron has sat herself. The poor Councillor. Drool was beginning to form at the corner of his mouth. The zeltron pheromones were cloying, Annasari not resistant herself. Her collar felt suddenly tight.

“What percentage of the Corporate Council’s revenue was brought in by tourism last year?” If there was anything to break the spell the enchantress had cast upon him, it was threatening his dividends. “Three quarters, perhaps? People want to feel safe when they travel. You are already ripping them away from the comfort of their homes. Would you really sour that reputation by associating yourself with financiers from one of the most dangerous planets in the galaxy? What’s next, hutts in your master suites? Women of the night in your bars? Consider the headlines!”

The monologue was interrupted by a rap at the door. Nostrils flared in irritation. She and Decarii would have a hard enough time competing with the more exotic as it was. Further reinforcements, and the battle would lost.

“Expecting someone?”

The seat slid back behind her as she rose and opened the door. A tusked, hulking monstrosity with a gun met her face first. Swallowing, she stepped back, allowing him uncontested entry. She had always been well aware her strengths and weaknesses - and combat was not one of them.