Session export: Sundowner’s Getaway

The Sundown Overture had always held a special place in Thran’s heart. The Luxury 3000 space yacht was not the newest model, nor was it the most lavish, but it was a classic. It was the type of vessel that a connoisseur would appreciate.

He gazed out of the large viewing windows into the vast emptiness beyond. The guests would be arriving soon and he’d need to put on the airs of a cordial host. Parties, even for those who knew of his affiliation with the Sith, could be so dull.

Small talk about where one summers or droning complaints about the New Republic’s ineptitude would be replaced with equally uncompelling debates over power or strength. Ironically both usually ended with some conflict or scrap, but the latter was less concerning than the former.

He sighed and turned to Rayne.

“Well, it’s time. Are you ready for this?”

Rayne blinked in the illuminated mirror before her, finishing her dark mascara and completing her look for the social party they were about to attend. The Firrerreo woman had subtle cat-like features which were accentuated with make up to look fierce and striking. Her pale golden skin needed little adjusting. It took many years to achieve her overall appearance, and being glamorous was just enjoyable by now. Over a century old, she looks beautifully youthful still. She was getting more used to being seen and being in the spotlight. Her life has dramatically changed in the past couple years. Becoming involved with a intergalactic celebrity/ Sith Emperor was an… adjustment for someone so used to working in the shadows behind the scenes. Together, they were a power couple in the Empire and a dangerous force to be messed with. Atleast she knows how to be unseen if the need suddenly arises. No one is going to find her unless she wishes to be found. Her life couldn’t be better, if she was honest.

“If looks could kill…” she smiled darkly after once last glance in the mirror before shutting off the lights in the refresher with a simple flip of Telekinesis. The Force flowed through her effortlessly. The Nightsisters trained her how to use it long ago and her time spent immersing herself in the teachings of the ways of Sith have perfected her use of it.

“Shall we go?” she spoke softly as she approached Thran.

“Very well. Open the bar and notify the pilot. Let’s get this pleasure cruise under way. We’ll be down to entertain shortly.” Thran said to the servant.

Thran turned from his position near the window. He looked Rayne up and down.

“Be still my beating heart…Ravishing as always, my dear. Let us attend to our guests.” He said.

Thran extended his arm and took his consort and protege in tow. They departed the illustriously appointed private cabin and made their way to the common areas of the vessel. Seated around the vessel was many of “the usual suspects”: K'vin, Derrin, Saris Aran, and the entirety of the TCS squad. Thran nodded to each and promptly retrieved a glass of amber banana nectar from the Bartender.

The Emperor briefly recalled the invitation list. He was particularly interested in speaking with Reiden. Thran hoped he would show. Likewise, the Conrat girl had never formally spoken with him. Her resume was impressive and he wondered if that special Conrat impulsiveness was hereditary. Thran knew very little of Marcus Ignis, perhaps they too might be acquainted. Thran had matters he could discuss with Kah'ri and Brujah, they were of little mystery to him.

He sipped from the glass he was provided and took a deep sighing breath.

Elaine stepped through the corridor and into the main room that the event was being held, her dark crimson cloak blowing behind her as she walked. Typically she was seen with her nexu companion but she did not wish to cause a seen in front of the Emperor and the Proconsul and draw unnecessary attention to herself.

As she glanced over the room and made her way to a corner to observe, she swiped a drink off of a server’s tray, taking a sip of the beverage as she made her way to her destination.

Thran softly elbowed Rayne, and nodded in the direction of the new arrival. “Our first guest. The Conrat girl…punctual. that is good.”

As the sun crested Seraph’s horizon, Kah'ri Marru stood alone, gazing at the Sundown Overture from the viewport of his own ship, his shadow his only companion among the golden glow of the sunset. As with all of the Emperor’s personal crafts, the sleek lines of Thran’s private yacht gleamed under the fading light, its opulence unmatched by any vessel in the Imperial fleet.

The docking port opened with a hiss, and Kah'ri crossed over to the Emperor’s yacht with measured steps, his boots echoing on the durasteel. The crew, adorned in crisp uniforms, bowed deeply as he passed, recognizing the emblem of the Marru house emblazoned on his attire as the former Quaestor of House Acclivis Draco. Inside, the yacht was a palace among the stars, with corridors that shimmered and lounges that promised comfort and sophisticated conversation.

Kah'ri explored the vessel, his sharp eyes noting every detail—the security measures discreetly placed, the hidden alcoves perfect for private discussions, and the main hall where he could already feel the ever subtle presence of Thran and Rayne. He felt one other strong individual, but could not place where he knew them from.

As he entered the hall, he could feel the hum of the yacht’s engines beneath his feet, a promise of the journey to come, and the power plays it would host…

The Proconsul’s perceptive eyes caught the arrival of the young human, Elaine. Rayne had watched her progress since joining the Clan. She wanted to see her grow even more into her fullest potential. Rayne observed her movements as Elaine waited in the corner with her drink, figuring she needs to make an appearance to her directly.

The Firrerreo woman left Thran’s side and headed towards the human. She’d make the introductions herself. Rayne’s footsteps practically unheard as she approached. She knew her presence could unnerve some people, and rightfully so. But over the years, she learned how to be incredibly charming when the time called for it.

“Elaine, pleasure to see you here. How’s your evening?” Rayne asked cordially.

Thran noticed Kah'ri and nodded slightly. The former governor had only recently surrendered his post, so their acquaintance was still fresh.

Some don’t have the constitution for rigors of polity, and I envy them at times. Thran mused within his own mind

He gestured to Kah'ri to join him, rather than cross the room to speak. Being Emperor had afforded him the ability to make such demands. Being a Master of the Dark Side ensured those demands would be met. He waited patiently for Kah'ri to come to his side.

Elaine noticed the Proconsul make her way towards her though she acted as if she hadn’t. Now that the Firrerreo woman was in the vicinity of her, she turned her attention to her superior and gave a small bow then met her eyes.

“The pleasure is mine M’lady,” she started “I feel as if it is too early to tell. The night has only just begun.” She stated with a soft smile.

“I trust you have been well?” She asked.

Reiden Karr stood up with a sigh and looked at the mirror in the lounge of his ship. He smoothed his dress uniform and nodded to himself. He still wasn’t sure it was the best choice, but at least it was an easy one given the fact that he was going to an Imperial event. He eyed the dagger on his hip. It likely wouldn’t be needed, but it never hurt to be prepared just in case. Life had taught him that lesson on more than one occasion. Reiden felt his ship begin the docking procedures with Thran’s yacht and he made his way to the exit and stepped aboard, his Ascendant drone following closely. The doors hissed behind him and he pressed a button on his gauntlet, signaling for his ship to depart. The droid brain in control of the vessel would stay nearby, awaiting his next command upon returning.

He reached out with his senses and found the other guests, following the hallway to arrive at his destination. Before entering, he turned to his droid.

“Stay here, Blitz, got it? The Emperor isn’t a big fan of droids and you’re here merely as a precaution. I’ll alert you if you’re needed.” He reached out and gave him an appreciative pat.

The droid gave a happy beep before replying. “Understood. Enjoy the party, master.”

Reiden nodded and turned on his heel, making his way into the main area. Well practiced movements made little noise despite the polished floor. There was no need to announce his presence. Most in attendance he would have reason to speak with would be able to sense his approach and those that couldn’t were more than likely ones he wouldn’t have any business engaging with. He passed by a server as he first stepped into the room, his hand deftly securing a glass from the tray being carried.

Rayne picked up a nearby glass with the Force, floating it over towards her with ease and took a sip. Elaine, she noticed, had dual-colored eyes. One was green, the other blue. She could tell the young girl was nervous. A stark contrast to Thran’s daughter, who was close to her age. She smiled gently, musing to herself. The butterfly had sprouted from its’ cocoon yet still the wings were wet.

“Indeed I have. We’re waiting to see what the next move the Chiss has for us. But tonight, enjoying the finer things in life,” Rayne said as-a-matter-of-factly, glancing around the opulent hall they were in. “Tell me, have you seen any emberoot on the planet? I’m in need of more.”

She could sense a familiar yet subtle presence make himself known to the room as she conversed with Elaine.

Kah’ri’s emerald eyes met with Thran’s and he nodded back. The Emperor beckoned him. Half on muscle memory and half based on the sheer power backing Thran’s command, Kah’ri was compelled toward the host’s side.

As he walked, he sensed Reiden Karr. A feeling of joyous anticipation comforted his mind at the thought of his former master — he was perfectly content with the thought, yet still longing to see him.

Kah’ri set his mind back on the grandiosity that Thran so readily embodied.

“Emperor Occasus.” Kah’ri said, reaching behind him. “For you.”

In his hands, the Firrereo presented a bottle of Namana liquor.

“Ahhh, a gift. How kind of you. I’m afraid I have nothing to exchange for it. I will accept with gratitude.” Thran said, bowing slightly, and craddling the bottle in his hands.

“A fine marque of a fine house.” He said inspecting the label. “I must admit, it surprises me that your mind would venture back towards the outer rim in the search for a gift. I’d’ve thought you’d dip into the deep history of Onderon. But nevermind that, it’s but a trivial thought on a fine gift. Many thanks.”

Thran placed the bottle down on the table adjacent to him.

“How is life finding you now that you’re free of duty?” Thran asked.

The Emperor raised his hand to Reiden, whom he could see in the distance. He waved him over, an informal invitation to join the conversation that would be developing in the coming moments. Thran and Reiden had never been close as friends, but there were few among the Clan’s ranks that held such a long and esteemed tenure as the two of them. Together, they were Palpatines, status symbols of the Imperial clans long and storied legacy.

Although he wouldn’t count him among enemies, Thran was still uncertain if Reiden would fall on a list of allies. Of one thing he was certain, Reiden likely shared his appraisal of their relationship.

Elaine reached into the pouch on her hip that was hidden under her cloak and pulled out one of the two vials that contained the herb Rayne spoke of.

The herb was already ground and prepared for immediate use.

She extended her hand with the vial of emberoot towards the Firrerreo.

“I happen to have picked some this morning. Please use it wisely.” She spoke.

Kah’ri chuckled a bit louder than he would meant to before clearing his throat to compose himself. “Duty, my Lord, is a relative thing. Mine is… a test of endurance. As for the gift, I very often do my research before I commit to something. Surely, you already know this.”

“Oh I will at that,” Rayne chuckled with a mischievous glint in her bright blue eyes. She took the vial, careful not to overly disturb the volatile powder contained within. As the powder rolled inside the glass, an orange glow was slightly seen within and would die back down as the ash-colored particles settled into place.

“I’ll cut to the chase, Elaine,” Rayne said, tucking the vial in a cloth gently. “Would you like to learn more secrets this galaxy has to offer? Sykes taught you much and I would love to show you how to harness your potential even further.”

Reiden caught sight of Thran and his former apprentice and made his way over. His eyes picked up on Rayne off in a corner with someone. He recognized it was Elaine and he raised his glass to them in greeting before finding himself in front of the other two. He nodded to his clan mates. “Kah'ri. Thran - sorry, Emperor. You’ve got a great ship here. It’s been a while and I appreciate the invitation. Good to see you again.”

“Likewise. No need to stand on pretense, Reiden. We’ve know each other long enough, I think we can forgo the titles and pomp. Regardless of that, let’s hope this time our evening can be a bit more…civilized…than last time we met. Things took a rather strange turn.” Thran said, sipping from his glass.

The Punisher came to a smooth landing next to a ship that Vincent Brujah recognized as Reiden’s. This would be twice in as many weeks that the Sith had been invited to a social gathering, which was quite the change from the past 13 years in hiding. Anxiety coursed through Brujah’s veins. He wasn’t great with these kinds of gatherings. His years away from the Brotherhood had put him on high alert almost constantly, waiting for the next blaster bolt that might be fired his way.

With a crush Vincent extinguished a death stick. A loud hiss accompanied the exit ramp of the ship lowering to the ground. Brujah grabbed the helmet of his armor, but spoke before putting it on.

“A very nice landing, Punisher. You’re getting better with every attempt.”

“Thank you, Master Brujah” a metallic voice responded.

Brujah slid the helmet over his head and waited for it to close and seal before responding in a much deeper voice.

“I’ve told you before; Vincent or Brujah… Do not call me Master.”

“Yes Ma.. Mister Brujah.” the ship responded back.

Sighing, the Sith walked off of the ship and made his way toward the yacht. What adventures would tonight bring, he wondered.

She gave a small nod to Reiden as he passed by then turned her attention back to the Proconsul. Elaine’s eyebrow raised at the question presented to her.

“I’ll admit, I’m intrigued. What did you have in mind, M’lady?” She replied.

Reiden raised an eyebrow at the mention of the previous night out and nodded in agreement. “That was certainly something, all right. I’m sure tonight will prove to be a different story.”

He took a sip from his glass and surveyed the room. Aside from those few clan members currently in attendance, he had a hard time picking out any faces that he recognized. Aside from K’vin, that is. Then again, such a thing didn’t surprise him. Despite holding various positions over the years, he had usually been one to keep to himself. For better or worse, he was at his best when on the ground and doing the work that needed to be done, rather than being the public face.

“Ahh. Most excellent. We prepared some festivities for the evening. Just some fun and games to get the night rolling. Come gentlemen, let’s wager on the races.” Thran said, motioning towards the servant.

Rayne heard the bell as the servant announced the game, interrupting their conversation. She turned back to Elaine with a reassuring smile. “Let’s discover that later. Knowing you’re interested is enough. For now, let’s enjoy tonight and have some simple fun. Shall we join the others?” the Proconsul gestured.

Elaine smiled and nodded “Of course.”

She finished her drink then levitated the empty glass onto a tray as a fresh drink was brought to her hand through the Force.

She made her way to the derby track with the sound of cages rattling from the scurriers moving frenetically.

Brujah stepped aboard the yacht just in time to hear the announcement regarding the scurrier races.

“Interesting” the Sith thought to himself while looking around to see who all had arrived. His eyes first caught the Emperor and Mistress Rayne, each seemingly in mid-conversation with Reiden and Elaine Conrat respectively. Not wanting to interrupt the conversations, Brujah made his way towards the Consul and Proconsul, nodding at the group of Clanmates through his armor.

“Despite the irony of running a rat race whilst on a getaway from the rat race, I suppose I’ll have a crack at it.” Thran said

Reiden turned to look at the servant and listened to what he said, his eyes settling on the track.

They’re really pulling out all the stops for this, aren’t they?

His mind mulled it over for a moment before he shrugged to himself. It seemed amusing enough as a concept and it meant there was something to do. A little change of pace from the typical function he attended - when he went to one, that is.

“I’ll get in on this, too,” he said to the servant.

“I’m in,” Rayne said as she joined the others, acknowledging the newest addition to the Summit, Vincent, giving him a nod.

Thran leaned over to inspect the small creatures. He wasn’t quite sure what he was looking for, but like with all games of wager following ones intuition often proved the best path. Until it didn’t, then you’d pick the opposite. Regardless or his awareness of the Gambler’s Fallacy, he looks for clues as to which of the small mammals would have the upper hand.

He scratched his chin as he inspected them. The Bakuran was taking his sweet time making a choice.

“Hrmmmmmm.” He cooed as his eyes looked over the creatures haunches and locked momentarily with their beady eyes, before passing over to the next.

“That one.” Thran said, pointing at Grundok.

The Proconsul studied the two remaining critters for a quick moment. She left it to fate and chose, pointing to the one called Limpso. “I’ll take that one.”

With the Emperor taking what would have been his first choice and the second going to Rayne by virtue of the order in which they picked, Reiden was of course left with the only remaining option. He gazed at the creature with curiosity. He’d mostly only heard of scurriers, but he supposed he may have come across some during his travels and simply couldn’t remember it. They were interesting little creatures. Still, the one named Joyar felt like a decent enough pick. Only time would tell.

“Looks like you’re with me,” he muttered under his breath. “Good luck, little guy.”

“Amusing.” The Firrereo man said completely occupied by the activity. Kah’ri reached into his vest pocket and pulled out a handful of credits. “20 credits on Limpso.”

“I’ll give it a shot.” came a deep voice from Brujah. “20 credits on Grundok.”

Kah’ri’s eyes seemed to shimmer with fixation, glancing up once to look at his new opponent. He recognized the man before him as the replacement Quaestor for House Caliburnus. Even now, sifting through his mental personnel records was force of habit.

Reiden gave an appreciative nod to the small animal after its performance and then watched the two men. It was good to see his former apprentice again and that he seemed to perhaps be settling into life after his stint as Quaestor. The armored man he had only heard of before but had never met - one of the new Quaestors. He had heard some stories, but he always preferred more trusted sources or seeing things firsthand.

This could prove to be an interesting evening.

Kah’ri casually swiped the credits, tucking them away with a smug look on his face. He slapped Vincent on the shoulder plate, “Better luck next time…. Brujah, was it?”

Vincent reached up pressing a button near the bottom of his helmet. With a hiss the helmet released its seal and opened. Brujah had spent too much time around former Clanmates with a fixation for dioxis, and after spending 13 years on the run, he had decided to always be prepared. Returning to the Brotherhood afforded him the luxury of buying this new armor, which he was terribly fond of. He pulled the helmet off revealing his scarred face and long black hair pulled up into a bun. With a smile, he spoke.

“Well played. Yes, Vincent Brujah. Quaestor of House Caliburnus, and if my research hasn’t failed me, you would be Kah'ri Marru, correct?”

Reiden looked at the scurriers once more and nodded to himself. “I’ll go again, with Grundok this time.”

The name reminded him of Gundark Company, the military unit attached to Battleteam Krennic in years past, whose red colors adorned his armor now. It only felt fitting to choose that one. And he seemed like maybe he was looking for another chance to run, which hopefully didn’t hurt.

Elaine had stood idly while she watched the past two games play out.

“I’ll wager 75 credits on Limpso,” she said, dropping the said amount of credits on the table. The metal plates made a short and abrupt click on the surface of the table.

Reiden smiled, dropping some credits onto the table as well. “I’ll match that bet for Grundok.”

Holding his helmet under his arm, Brujah turned his attention away from the scurrier races and to the bar. His eyes quickly fixated on a Correlian ale, which he scooped up and took a big drink from. So far, his senses had not detected any threats in the area, so he was beginning to feel comfortable letting his guard down slightly. Looking over to <@232396983854301187>, the Sith spoke.

“Reiden, right? I’ve heard a lot about you, but I don’t believe we’ve been properly introduced. I can say one thing for sure; your picks in scurriers is second to none.”

Reiden turned to face the man decked out in armor. His eyes studied his face for a moment, something working in his brain before recognition settled in and he nodded.

“Yeah, that’s me. And you must be Vincent Brujah. I’ve heard of you as well, but it’s good to finally meet you.” He glanced at the track briefly. “Well, what can I say? I figured the little guy was due for a win after coming up short so far. Sometimes you get lucky.”

“Sometimes, indeed.” Kah’ri’s voice agreed as he walked up from behind Vincent. “It’s been a long while, master! I see you have met Caliburnus’s new governor.”

Turning to Vincent, Kah’ri began venerating Reiden’s accomplishments, his title as a member of the ‘Legacy of Palpatine’, rank, and service as predecessor of Quaestor of House Acclivis Draco, before ending his commendations with the proudest “and he was my master during my time as a Journeyman.”

Vincent couldn’t help but smile at Kah'ri’s enthusiasm. Not much made the Sith truly smile these days, but seeing a strong Master / Apprentice relationship between two highly skilled Clanmates was one thing that Vincent found very admirable, having never truly had a Master himself.

“Yes, if the databases are to be believed, Reiden is the pick of the bunch for Master. I’d say having him at your side has served you well.”

“History tends to agree with you.” Kah’ri nodded and turned to Reiden. “Very nice earnings, master. I’m glad to see your judgement is still sharp as ever.”

Elaine step to the side of the crowd and made her way beside The Emperor himself. She cleared her throat to gather his attention towards her.

“My Lord,” she bowed from the waist down, “I wanted to thank you personally from the invitation. It is quite a spectacular event to be able to attend.”

<@693983046197706842>

Thran looked up, returning from an excursion deep into his own mind. He smiled softly and returned a courtesy nod.

“It is my pleasure to have you attend. I don’t believe we have had the courtesy of being formally introduced. I, of course, require no introduction. But, You are Elaine Conrat, are you not?” Thran eyes shimmered slightly.

“I am. I regret not introducing myself prior to this evening.“ She smiled softly, feeling slightly nervous in the presence of someone much more powerful than herself.

Reiden looked at Kah'ri and Vincent, cracking a grin himself. “Oh, no need for that, Kah’ri. I’m merely a servant of the Empire, someone doing what is asked of them. Although that last point, that one I’m proud of. Over the years, I’ve heard many lament that their apprentices wouldn’t cut it or would disappear never to be seen again - and who knows the circumstances involved there? I dare not pry too much myself, some things are better left alone. But I had a good student. Capable, eager to learn, and simply in need of guidance. Perhaps that was luck again. Or maybe the will of the Force. Who can rightly say? But it is good to see you again, my apprentice. You led Acclivis Draco well when my time was done. I regret that my other duties have kept me occupied recently, but I’m hoping that has changed now.”

He could sense her fear. It filled the space around her like the musky scent of incense. As a younger man, he would have revelled in the appropriate response to his power and authority. That would be foolhardy and serve no utility. Despite outward appearances, wisdom has caught him up as he aged.

“Regrets are the burden of the old. You, my dear, have far too much life ahead of you to regret anything. Pleasantries aside, I am glad you could come. My duties leave me with far too little time to properly entertain. But, on this evening I’ve been graced with an abundance of time. Perhaps we might get to know each other a bit. So…Elaine, when you’re not too busy eagerly plotting fratricide, where do you dedicate your attention?”. Thran said.

“I spend a my time in the woods with Callé honing my abilities until I am summoned, My Lord.” She replied.

“I am proficient with herbs and I yearn to become even better in the use of them.”

“Plants can tell us many things about the world we inhabit, the culture we are a part of, and even ourselves. I don’t fancy myself as an herbalist, but one could say I share study in at least a portion of your preferred field. I had curated a rather impressive collection of orchids and epiphytes from around the Galaxy. Few have medicinal purposes, but what they lack in utility they make up for in beauty. Which, rather fittingly, is also something often said about me…” Thran said with a slight laugh

Thran waived his hand dismissing the servant.

“Not now, Jeeves.” he said “Wait…” He took one more glance. “Have Cesare grill me a cheese.”

Thran looked down at the tray, then back up to the girl, then back at the tray, then back at the girl.

“You’re Derrin’s cousin, aren’t you? Go on…pick it up. Take it back to the galley and get a fresh cheese.” He said.

The calm and patience in his voice made him all the more frightening.

“Well, it is my pleasure to formally meet both of you, and I hope to work together in the future for the good of the Empire.” Brujah said to Kah'ri and Reiden. Turning his attention specifically to Reiden he spoke again.

“Reiden, you and I will have to meet one night for drinks and conversation. There are a lot of things I have missed in my 13 years of absense, and I could use any knowledge you might be able to provide that would help me with reestablishing myself here with the Clan and the Brotherhood as a whole.”

Thran turned back to <@971875986654257162>. “It’s so hard to find good help these days…”

“I understand what you mean, My Lord.” She said.

“I vaguely recall a time when I had help of my own.”

Reiden raised his glass to the other man and took a sip. “I’d be happy to help however I can. Although the farther back, the less I remember. The last seven or so years are more fresh. My early days, not so much. Despite making it to knighthood, I wanted to make sure I was ready for what might come my way, so between going off to train elsewhere, being called on by contacts in need of help and various job offers, I was kept out of the Cocytus system for a long time, or stopping in briefly before departing once more.” He paused for a moment, thinking. “But the time around the attack on Cocytus and the search for a new home, and all that followed, I was in the thick of it.”

The girl grabbed the attention of Brujah who stepped over with a clank from each step of his armor. Reaching out he grabbed at a piece of the cheese.

“Oh! Cheese!” he said as he stuffed it in his mouth and chewed. “Delicious!”

Kah’ri tried to keep up with the conversation, but had no reference point outside of the few historical Shadow Academy documents he had read sometime around his knighthood. At the time, he had a disinterest for academia which was beginning to resurface now - his mind wandering and effectively tuning out his companions. He became fidgety and his gaze floated around the room before landing on the lovely <@169597761379893249>, who had been betting on the races.

This was his preferred form of study: people-watching. He knew her well enough to know she was usually plotting something (most often, long-game stratagems). She continued with her betting which seemed very…. pedestrian for someone with her power (though he suspected that was the intended perception). He frowned at the sight. He could never be sure what she was thinking and it bothered him… Thran was the same way, of course, but his obligations as Emperor provided a bit more predictability in his actions.

Kah’ri thought hard on this and how the new Quaestors would handle them. “Or perhaps…” he thought, “We will see how our fearless rulers handle the newest change of staff.”

Thran stood staring at Vincent, gobsmacked. Perhaps the Quaestor had some kind of intolerance and a single cocktail had the impact of a dozen, Thran thought. He brushed it off.

“Anyway…” he said turning back to Elaine.

Elaine found herself not knowing how to react to the events that played out before her eyes concerning the Emperor’s cheese.

“Did…” she drew herself out of her daze and focused her attention upon the Emperor once more. “Did you have something else on your mind, my lord?”

“Umm…” Thran shook the confusion from his head. “You’d mentioned you once had servants. Do you not have them any longer? Did you misplace them? I left Siinek at the Spaceport once. He just stood there for 7 hours.”

As Vincent listened into the conversation, he suddenly heard a voice coming from inside of his helmet. He slipped the helmet back on, sealing it in place and determined that the voice was of his friend, the Mandalorian, Jaz Holden. He sounded worked up about something, but to the others in attendance, all they heard was Brujah speaking.

“Understood Jaz. Keep the situation under wraps for now. I am on my way.”

With that, Brujah turned to the Emperor and Rayne.

“Lovely party you’ve thrown here. The cheese was wonderful. I hope to do it again sometime soon, but duty calls for now. Please excuse my sudden leave. Hopefully I will have new information to bring to you soon.”

Brujah bowed to the Summit.

Elaine chuckled. “No, my family was wealthy however we dismissed the servants when I was a child.” She said. After a moment, all hints of happiness faded from her face and were replaced with grief and hate. “That was before my parents died.”

“Ergo the lust for fratricide?” Thran said, raising an eyebrow.

“Something like that,” she replied.

“That will be all, Thank you.” He replied. “Now you’ll excuse me, there is a mirror in my quarters with a tragic lack of me in it. Good evening.”

“Of course, my lord. And a good evening to you as well.” The young human female spoke. She gave a small bow of her head to her superior.