Its About Who You Know (Cal)(Panna)

[Raytheon]

The Majestic Casino and Hotel, definitely one of the more upscale gambling venues in the Southern Province of Zeltros it's interior decorated with faux venetian plaster upon every wall, bronzium fixtures, marble flooring and red carpeting to make every guest and visitor feel like a holo-star. Slot machines decorated the main floors with rich and poor alike flocking to them for a hopeful fortune.

Upon an elevated floor sat chess & dejarik tables set according to house rules, a rarity on Zeltros to offer the intellectually gifted a chance to both gamble and try their skill at a price. Beyond them sat dozens of pazaak, sabacc and bannak tables each with a dealer each taking a cut for the house. Regardless of each game there was a single solitary truth to those not too caught up with personal glory. House always wins, massive amounts of credits flushed in daily off the hopes and dreams of those who came only to have that dream crushed or for the lucky few who left with a fortune.

Above the main floor was a large screen dedicated to those who played the hourly Corellian lottery game, choosing a series of numbers with the hopes they would win a jackpot, rarely did one ever win and when they did win rarely did they leave with the winnings instead wishing to double their luck. A foolish gesture to be sure, yet the Casino never complained only complied with it's winner.

This day however was one unique where the Casino Owner himself Mr. Haust was present among those who had the bank roll to enter the Majestic's Millionaire club, a step up from the High Rollers Club where needs were catered free of cost and wants always available for a price, women, spice, exotic meals all available located at the forefront of the Casino the era was secured by more than a dozen armed guards, and dozens more internal club staff to ensure members and guests of the club were not disturbed or harassed.

The interior of the club held black granite flooring impeccably polished and glimmering as one would easily use it to see their reflections. Gold and silver trimmed fixtures expensive open bar of every drink imaginable for distinguished palate and kitchen staff on call for any meal, any time. However the elevated area has been cordoned off usually available with lounging for all Millionaires Club guests was completely reserved, with perfect view of the club and mirrored transparisteel paneling to offer one sided view of the casino floor.

Here sat Lord Callidus an esteemed member of the club his privacy and wishes met with the utmost discretion and success. Haust himself atop the elevated area dressed in a black business robes often worn by the senatorial or nobility, his black gloved hands clasped behind him as he looking through the mirrored transparisteel to the casino floor below always vigilant of the running of his business venture calculating the variables of expression, behavior and probability of each game and the success of it's players.

He remained silent and would remain so unless addressed, by Lord Callidus and given his staff specific and direct instructions to not be disturbed now would anyone atop this cordoned off area, only a one other permitted to enter, the expected guest of Lord Callidus her bio metrics already on file and given clearances to enter the club and the secure area.

[Poludnica]

((If I messed up some details, let me know ^^))

It had been truly taxing to choke down the swill they tried to pass for a good red. You would think such place had some nice drinks readily available but apparently Zeltros was home to loose morality much more than good liqueur. Danica winced and placed the glass back on the counter, her eyes flicking to check time, deciding she was running a bit late. The elegant woman left her seat, straightened impeccable business attire and directed her steps out of the small bar and toward the large, pompously named hotel and Casino.

The moment Danica's high heels began to echo on dark, marble floors, the woman experienced deja vu. She let her gaze to take in every luxurious detail that evoked clubs Cassius owned. Maybe all rich human men decorated their casino's in the same, absolutely tasteless way. The woman wrinkled her nose in disdain, absentmindedly adjusting her cream colored attire, making sure everything looked flawlessly. Of course after breaking all ties with Cassius, there was no one to judge her to harshly for possible mistakes but old habits died hard. Especially when meeting someone who knew her father. She caught a glance of few scantily clad female waitress loitering about which elicited a small sigh. So it were these kind of men that visited this place.

The young woman swallowed a tight knot of anxiety forming in the core of her being and climbed up the stairs. In before finding the level for the most important guests, she stopped and took out a small mirror out of her purse – checking for the last time if the carefully applied make up remained on its proper place. Finally, when the last opportunity for procrastination was used, Danica took a deep breath, trying to force her breathing control and walked toward the man she was here to meet. Hopefully, as they were the only beings there and the instructions were quite clear.

It didn't escape the woman's attention that the place was deserted, all patrons remained downstairs. She smiled in a charming manner, hiding all the fear and discomfort that wrecked havoc under this polite mask. ”I didn't know it was a private party.” The girl joked lightheartedly, looking pointedly around. It made her nervous, she preferred public placed to conduct business, especially now.

And who is this guy? Her eyes stopped at the tall, blond haired man, with very unsettling eyes. Maybe he wasn't a human after all. A bodyguard? Danica started to regret she didn't bring Nieraan with her, or anyone who knew how to fight, really. The woman quickly shifted her verdrous gaze to who supposed to be the fabled crime boss and someone Cassius despised very much. Just an ally she could use.

[Cavalry King]

Callidus sat casually on an extremely expensive sofa flanked by two female "attendants". In his hand was of course a small cup of Corellian Brandy, this time from Haust's special reserve and not his own. Between the exquisite decor, brandy, and this fantastic sofa, Callidus knew he was dealing with a man of refinement. He was actually growing quite fond of his apprentice, he had to check himself though and remember that for a Sith, even best of friends could happily slide a saber through your gut if they thought it would advance themselves. Things seemed to operate a bit differently in this iteration of the Sith Empire but Callidus remained cautious none-the-less.

Callidus was actually enjoying this particular sofa so much he was seriously considering buying it from Haust. While he drank and pondered the luxury of this fine seating implement, his two female attendants were seated next to him, competing for his attention. Even behind his mask Callidus was an extreme charmer. Not only was he naturally extremely intelligent, he was also one of the most naturally charismatic men around, likely only Haust rivaled him among the people Callidus could remember. Regardless of his natural abilities, Callidus was also the preeminent master of telepathic force abilities. People's minds were his playground. He could read them, sense their fears, hopes, dreams, desires, he could command them, and if he needed to, control them. He could use the force to make himself even more persuasive. Rarely was it necessary but he could do it. It was also unfortunate that he sought to protect his identity, otherwise his natural good looks could get him quite far as well. These two feeble minded women had fallen easily to his advances. It was like shooting fish in a barrel.

Finally his guest arrived. A beautiful young woman to be sure. Quite beautiful actually. Perhaps as a gesture of ill will towards her father Callidus might take this woman on. He knew though that if she was anything like Cassisus then she would be a force to be reckoned with. Cassius and Callidus had an interesting history, they were both very similar in terms of personality, and at one point worked together, but Callidus betrayed Cassius and cost the man millions of credits. Ever since they had been trading attacks on each other's businesses in a highly tit-for-tat manner. Callidus' work as a Sith Lord and crime boss mostly prevented Callidus from hunting Cassius himself, but he considered the idea of sending one of his assassins after the man. Perhaps Di'shan Pano. He was a very... cruel killer. A fitting way to bring the rivalry to an end. That was for the future, today he had the man's lovely young progeny to attend to.

He stood up, totally oblivious to his two attendants, he spread his hands out at his sides in a gesture of good will and in his most welcoming voice Callidus said, "Ah, the young miss Liviana. It has been years since I have seen you last. My how the years have treated you well. It is well that you have sought me out, you are far too exquisite of a woman for your father's company..."

He paused and held his right hand near his face and pointed upwards as if he was stopping to think, "But you are far more than just beauty, you clearly have the... ambition and intelligence to make it in this industry. I wont make the mistake of underestimating you. But where are my manners? I am known as Lord Callidus, a Lord of the Sith. You may call me Callidus though. This man here is my apprentice, Haust, and he is the owner of this fine establishment."

Callidus made his way over to the stand which had a tumbler of Corellian Brandy and empty cups. "Before we begin may I offer you a drink?"

The entire time Callidus was speaking he was analyzing the woman, reading her face, movements and composure. He began to sense her out through the force as well, he would pick up any surface thoughts. He could delve deeper but he would hold back for now.

[Raytheon]

His eyes though she entered the area remained studying the casino floor from his view of private zone of the club's elevated floor. However he remained also in a sense of meditation keeping awareness of the events happening behind him a daunting multi-tasking endeavor to be sure however it was the nature of running a casino. To have eyes everywhere, ears everywhere to calculate, to read expressions, ever vigilant for cheaters, thieves, peddlers or should he say unsanctioned peddlers. A fair share of spice was sold to keep the patrons of that division compliant, comfortable.

Happy customers played and payed and contributed to the continuing flow of credits even as the conversation would develop behind him he remained silent turning only so slightly to offer the woman a cordial nod when he was introduced by Lord Callidus, before returning his attention to the casino floor as to not appear rude and by that extension rude as a associate and apprentice of Lord Callidus.

Though the two were of like mind and shared the same sentimentality of the galaxy Haust comfortably took his place as his apprentice and more importantly his inferior by that notion. Though with his characteristics it was a comfortable mantle to sit upon not one set within what he often considered a low income and drab apprenticeship often held by other apprentices.

In the quick glance of the female she was quite beautiful, a compliment to be made considering his personal tastes for the exotic and rare or should he say non-human. He watched as the dozens of concierges moved about with wealthy clients on the casino floor and the high rollers area being sure they both catered their desires and did so happily.

Standing straight with his arms comfortably crossed he was also ready to spring into action should the need arise the location to stand in the room wasn't made hastily or out of an ideal of comfort but rather calculated distance he was equal distance to his master as he was to the stairwell the position provided him with a location where he could react quickly and decisively. While the notions of attacking his Master was one that would often seep across the mind of most apprentices it wasn't as much for Haust.

He was a zealot for the science of causality by his calculation there was no cause to attack or attempt to slay Callidus. The effect resulting from an attack success or failure wouldn't benefit him in the long run besides apart from having to be his inferior he was beginning to enjoy his company he was of an agreeable disposition in many facets.

As for the area and accommodations he was sure only the best was catered to this meeting Corellian crystal drink ware. Shot glasses and tumblers edged at the rim with electrum and even Corellian Brandy a favored drink of both him and Callidus. As well as the nearby bar with over 5,000 drink selections fitted with a droid bartender as well as a male Zeltron mixologist. On other planets that profession was seen a low to mid class however on Zeltron where liquor flowed easier than the women it was prestigious often pulling in more in their salary corporate executives.

It would only take a request and a drink of choice would be prepared accordingly.

[Poludnica]

The woman's eyes lazily moved toward two female 'assistants' but expression remained unchanged. The look on their faces were as dumb as that of lobotomised bantha. It didn't wake up any strands of symapthy in Danica who detested men treating women like playthings. She hated her father, a terrible misogynist but not someone who kept female company. No, to say the truth Callidus was more his type than any woman, which only made Dany wonder if Cassius just liked his rival too much to get rid of him. Liviana senior didn't let go of even the smallest slights easily. Whatever was going on between this Corellian and her father, the woman was oblivious to it and despite flickers of burning curiosity, something told her curiosity killed a cat. Especially when it came to such games.

She smiled at the compliment, her cheeks blushing lightly. How long it had been? More than a decade for sure. Danica didn't really remember much from meeting Callidus, though it was possible she danced on the party he had been invited. Cassius was a show off and liked to flaunt his daughter, if only to make everyone in awe of his non existence parental skills. ”Years has been kind to you as well.” The girl smiled nervously pulling a loose strand of hair behind her ear. That was nice to hear, even it was a manipulative lie, to be better than Cassius. She had lived in her father's shadow for so long, it felt strange to be treated like a business partner more than a doll to show off.

The woman relaxed slightly, feeling much more at ease after initial uncomfortable awkwardness. Danica still felt a bit inadequate, considering experience and age difference. She tried to behave as professional as possible, folding her hands on her lap, forcing her emotions to calm, even a little. ”Mr. Haust.” The woman nodded at the supposed owner, trying not to show how much the information of the man's affiliation appeared. Now I know why Cassius hates Sith.

Now Danica knew this world was out of her league. Two force users, very dangerous ones. The young woman inhaled slowly, regretting leaving Nieraan behind even more. Wait...Did they possibly know each other? All those force using cults. Strange, weird, barbaric but oddly compelling in their notion of using such power. But it wasn't that Danica had come here but to do business absolutely unrelated to such things.

”Yes, please, something strong if you will.” Maker only knew, she would love a drink, dropping all paranoid ideas about the poison. The man could kill her with a flick of his wrist, no amount of careful would save her. Though he seemed a start contrast to Nieraan – suave and socially skilled but maybe Sith came from different backgrounds. With this one receiving decent education, coming from the Core. That was certainly a Corellian accent. Danica sighed, fishing into her handbag, she produced a small, silvery compact which she clicked open and retrieved a slender cigarette from.

”I hope you don't mind.” Before receiving an answer, the dark haired woman retrieved her cigarettes and lit up, watching with a mixture of apprehension and curiosity the two men. With hesitation, she offered the expensive cigarettes to them, wondering why a Sith lord would conduct such business, was he working for the Order on this one? Was Cassius dealing with Sith before knowing their affiliation?

[Cavalry King]

Callidus cracked a crooked smile underneath his mask. As the woman stood there he realized two wonderful things about her. First he sensed the force potential within her. It was raw, untapped but present. He wondered if she was aware of it. Her lack of a lightsaber and lack of utilized force abilities here hinted that she did not. Callidus was perpetually utilizing his force abilities, he guarded his mind and cloaked his presence in the force, or at least diminished it depending on his surroundings. It allowed him to go unnoticed or underestimated. Those who made the mistake of either often sealed their own fates.

He was surprised her father had not trained her, but then again, it did not surprise him. His trained daughter could have posed a threat to him. She clearly lacked the loyalty and obedience to him that an apprentice should have. Haust, thus far had demonstrated both.

The next thing he noticed was her apprehension. He didn't need force senses to surmise that much. It was the way she moved, adjusted her hair, looked at Callidus and Haust. He couldn't tell if she was incredibly stupid or incredibly wise for coming to this meeting totally defenseless. The thought briefly crossed Callidus' mind to subdue the woman here and now and hold her hostage to strike at her father, but it quickly passed. She would be a much greater blow and threat to him by actively opposing his operations and willingly allying himself with one of Cassius' worst enemies.

Callidus laughed slightly at her request and desire for a drink, as if to dismiss any thought of there being an issue. He spoke calm and cooly so as to withdraw the tension the woman felt and put her at ease. She had to feel comfortable around Callidus. Callidus would be the powerful, yet caring and sensitive man her father was not. He would be Cassius' antithesis. "Not at all, Danica... May I call you Danica? I find it much more enjoyable if we dispense of such formalities, wouldn't you agree?" He was turning up the charm now. This statement carried with it many implications. It gave her respect because he did not assume the right to call her by her first name, acknowledging her as an equal in this room, secondly it would give a friendlier tone to the proceedings.

He personally poured her cup from the decanter and offered it to her. This level of familiarity from Callidus would potentially come as a surprise to Haust. Despite their friendly relationship, Callidus demanded to be called either "Master" or "Lord Callidus", he expected the man to kneel before him and now with this civilian, he was pouring her drink for her and walking it to her himself. Then again, Haust likely knew him well enough to know why.

Callidus laughed as he handed her the drink, she was only a child when he had last seen her. "When you and your father knew me I was still a simple man. I had yet to embrace the Sith." This was only half true, yes the Sith Order had yet to return, but Callidus was still a powerful Dark Jedi and at the head of a large crime syndicate. "And you were but a child. My how things change."

He swirled his drink and drank from the small hole that would open in his mask when he brought the cup to it. He wondered if she had been old enough to remember his face. Her father knew his identity to some degree but did not reveal him to the galaxy. The reasons were many, mutual respect, sportsmanship, but mostly due to the fact that they each had enough information on the other to destroy them thus they respected their deep secrets. "All talk and no work, while enjoyable, would empty all of our pockets. Lets get down to business shall we? What is it that you wish to do?"

[Raytheon]

"Security eyes on T-76, 76 clear. Possible BL on entry, T-27V asking for new dealer, Require security in the restroom east side spice overdose" The ear wig Haust wore was full of constant chatter from the security teams stretched across the casino most dressed in the most obvious of Majestic Casino Uniforms while other were plain dressed security personnel, mingling with the guests gauging for cheaters.

However Haust also remained within the conversation behind him however he remained distant from it, focused on the workings of the casino until Callidus summoned or mentioned him specifically to his attention. The offer of a cigarette did not go unheeded and Haust responded in that respect reaching into his inner jacket pocket before pulling out his own silver cigarette case holding it over his shoulder to show he had his own.

Quickly placing it back into his inner pocket he crossed his arms again, though the sound of a cigarette along with the smell did entice him to smoke one of his own he fought such craving to possibly wait until after the meeting. When Callidus requested she address him informally it wasn't a surprise this was business and business didn't go so well if you acted pompous in front of potential business partners, regardless of how pompous one might actually be. It paid to be cordial, endearing and hospitable even if you intended the man whom you were meeting harm.

It was almost an unspoken rule in the criminal world even offended you smile, nod, be polite and walk away but always remember. Characteristics especially bad ones were remembered by colleagues and co-workers, hot headed individuals in particular didn't last long no matter how many ripples they made. too easy to provoke too easy to lure and eliminate. It didn't wound him in the least bit for him to allow her to drop the formalities they were Sith, Master and Apprentice very few relationships in a Sith's life were closer.

Occasionally from the reflection of the glass he would peer at them both, and the women clung to his Master's sides it reminded him why he loved Zeltros such a fantastic place to sow ones oats.

This Danica was actually sounding quite appealing to Haust a smoker, lover of a strong drink and beautiful must like him but of a different gender. However that was all the aspects in which they were alike, she was raised different she had that look. There was a certain look where one could tell a person's roots hers cried blue.

This meeting would prove to be a learning experience...

[Poludnica]

There was something about how the man laughed that was unsettling. Though maybe it only knowledge of what he truly was gave that impression. Danica shifted uncomfortably in her seat, trying to get rid of that feeling. Force users always made her feel exposed and vulnerable which wasn't a pleasant experience at all. Clicking at her lighter with elegant fingers, the woman held the resulting flame up to the cigarette and drew delicately at the tip, coaxing the soothing smoke into her lungs. Closing her eyes, she exhaled slowly, taking the cig daintily between her well manicured nails. Tendrils of smoke slipped past slightly parted crimson lips to curl lazily upwards, towards the softly glowing lights overhead. ”Of course, Callidus.” The girl gathered all her courage to speak up and call him with the name he had given. ”I never liked formalities, my father is a slave to them.” She smiled slightly. ”As you may know.” She puffed another circlet of smoke, before accepting a drink from her generous host. Or a boss of a host...The woman didn't really get all that apprentice/master thing, neither did she understand the Fore users. They were a strange lot, carrying themselves above everyone else.

”There is never anything simple about the men my father does business with.” The woman said, wondering why would Cassius spend time around someone so powerful, being a mere mortal. Was this why he didn't chase him after the betrayal? Or there was much darker secret there beyond mere statement about 'that fool who prefers few millions to dozen we could have made together'. ”It was a long time ago.” Danica admitted, slightly flustered by reminding her how much of an age gap there was between them.

With a coy simper, she hid her cigarette, nodding at Haust. He seemed like a man with class, such nice looking trivia as cigarette spoke volumes about the owner. At least they weren't typical Nar Shaddaa brutes she had to deal with in the Hutt space – unsophisticated and rude. ”Of course.” Danica nodded, exhaling softly , relieved the chit chat ended and they could get to proper business. The tension was slowly becoming straining and creeping headache nestled itself under her skull.

”My...entrepreneurship needs a boost, I have money but lack social network to start making some more. I was wondering if you could use an art dealer and event planner, maybe drop a word here and there.” The woman started, a bit stumbling over words, something that wasn't typical for someone so well versed and quick witted. But there were things about this man that made it hard to focus around him.

”In..in return I can offer a percent of my earnings.” Danica finished, downing her drink quickly, almost choking on it. She winced, a spontaneous frown marring her features. ”Maker that's strong.” The girl breathed, inhaling sharply.

[Cavalry King]

Callidus watched her and saw in her what amounted to fear and anxiety. It was the total opposite of what he wanted, at least for now. A healthy fear of Callidus was preferable in all those he worked with. This woman though, this woman intrigued him. He wanted her to trust him. She was beautiful, intelligent, at least intelligent enough to align herself with Callidus, and ambitious. All traits he found extremely compelling. If necessary he would employ the force to aid him in this process of building trust but he wished to withhold it at least for now. He had a strange respect for her that made him hesitate in the use of his full abilities. The thought crossed his mind that this could be a potential sign of weakness but he reminded himself that he really didn't have any qualms using these abilities outright. Only that he was hesitant. He felt the victory of winning her over would be all the sweeter if he gave himself a handicap.

Her anxiety was palpable to as strong a telepathic force user as Callidus. He scanned her and realized that her fear stemmed from his force powers in general, perhaps if she realized that she was not any different than Callidus, then she would warm up to him.

Callidus gave a quick laugh at the statement about her father's associates. It was true. Callidus had met his other "friends". He would do what he could to put her at ease. "Intriguing proposal. You seek to tap into my network. You desire clientele. Very shrewd of you.", he said as he worked through the cogs turning in his mind. He could think about multiple things simultaneously, formulating theories proposals and ideas, comparing them to each other, debating their merits and solving an issue almost instantaneously. As he often said, "A Sith dominates with his mind" and so Callidus had honed his intellect to a point. He had multiple issues here. First there was the business proposal. second there was the issue of trust, third there was the issue of Callidus' rivalry.

Callidus drank from his refilled cup of Corellian Brandy. It was his favorite, extremely expensive and top of the line alcohol. He laughed as she winced at its strength. He had long grown accustomed to it. "Its can be something of an acquired taste. Corellian Brandy. This particular brand is distilled from fruit grown on the Magnus-Solo estate outside of Kor Vella. Truly magnificent." His brand of Corellian Brandy was the only connection he maintained publicly to his "other life". He ensured that Haust would always have it available here for him.

He looked at her through his mask, "Please Danica, relax. You are in good hands here. First rule of doing, lets call it high risk business, is confidence and cool. You have something I want - business opportunity, and you have no reason to think I would do you any harm. Even if you are walking into a den of... Sith", he laughed a little at this jab at himself and Haust, people had good reason to fear Sith, "You must own the conversation. Death awaits us all so do not limit yourself by fearing it. Trust me, I would not wish to see such a rare beauty as yourself come to harm." His tone was a mixture of mentoring, caring, and slightly flirtatious. He had taken interest in this woman and almost without thinking, his teaching instincts began to kick in. He wanted her to succeed, just as he wanted Haust to succeed. Granted his reasons weren't all charitable, but some were. It was a change of pace for him.

"Now for your proposal. It seems like little effort on my part but high reward." Callidus drew from the cup again. He rarely smoked, if ever, but brandy was likely 50% of his body's fluids. Callidus asked her casually, as if you give her a chance to learn from this conversation, "However why should I help you?"

[Raytheon]

(Skip me, not much change to occur here.)

[Poludnica]

Her dark expression grew slightly darker as her mind raced. She still hesitated whether or not to trust Callidus. He is a Sith, of course not. And yet, Nieraan was one of them as well and had saved her life more than once. Despie the mask obscuring his features Danica could sense the similarities to Cassius. My oh my, did he think awfully highly of himself. Presumptuous and prideful, like every other rich human man she knew but like no one before, he had made her feel accepted and demanded as a business partner. Something she couldn't say about her father. The girl adjusted in her seat, for a moment watching a flicker of dying cigaret reflection in a dark mask before speaking. Small tremble shook the woman's palm hen she crushed a cig in the ashtray. ”Yes, I figured you wouldn't mind helping me to deal with my father. Considering your past.” Danica blew the last of smoke from her lungs and leaned back, frustrated it was impossible to read the man's expression.

This was what the woman counted on all along, the brewing resentment between old time rivals. Not really for Callidus charity, there would never be such thing in criminal underbelly but vindictive motives had always been a part of it. The woman gingerly put away the glass, not really convinced to have another of those. ”I am sure you can get used to it.” The woman responded diplomatically, now realizing why her father didn't keep much of Corellian beverages around. They could kill your customers. The Liviana senior was probably the first and only male CEO to prefer cosmo over strong brandy.

The reminding her of Sith den didn't really help, even less than stating the obvious. Danica called in for all the self control she had to put tight leash on her livid emotions. The woman had never been like Cassius – cool and controlled man with not a shred of emotionality to him. Her father had been terrifying in his indifference but Dany just couldn't muster such confidence and stability. ”I am sure even a den of Sith isn't as bad as my father's summer estate.” The woman stated bitterly, finally letting honest anger at Cassius to show. A faint smile appeared on her lips tho Danica refused to play on flirt Callidus intended. But being called a rare beauty was always nice, especially for a girl so terribly deprived of parental acceptance. It worked only slightly, bringing small reprieve. ”It is not death I am afraid of.” The woman admitted truthfully. There were worse fates and that, Cassius knew them he knew how to apply them. There was not a single doubt this man had such means as well. Though something in his demeanor changed. A subtle shift to more of a mentor rather than a partner. A goodhearted teacher.

Her eyes darted briefly flicked to Huast, the pupil but quickly returned to the top dog of the Sith. Was he Nieraan's boss or something? That was a scary thought. She placed chin on her folded fingers pondering the next important question that was threw into the air. Slow hum of ventilation system filled the silence when Danica's mind worked feverishly. ”Because it will urt Cassius more than millions you could steal from him.” The woman finally said, inhaling deeply.

[Cavalry King]

Callidus stood and listened intently. He smiled as she finally answered his challenge question about why he would wish to help her. Perhaps it was the obvious answer, perhaps anyone could have seen the true reason for his aid to her, at least the truth behind why he had approved this little meeting. Now his desire to help her had taken on a new basis, but what, he could not tell. It was perplexing to him, he usually was extremely calculating. Perhaps he had taken a liking to her, perhaps her allegiance was part of his effort against Cassius. He knew not and he would meditate upon it later but for now he would continue along the path he set out.

"Very astute of you Danica. Understand that all decisions should be well reasoned and have purpose." Callidus said approvingly, but he changed his tone quickly so as not to sound condescending or superior to her, "Though you clearly already knew that, of course."

He finished his drink and savored the flavor as the dark liquid went down his throat. It warmed his soul much like the coursing of the dark side of the force through him. It was an indulgence he could afford and one that he enjoyed. He had earned that much. Looking back to Danica he said, "You see Danica, much like I was telling Haust here the other day, Power is a very broad term, it can take on many forms and can come from different sources, but it can all be measured in the same way - your ability to assert your will on the galaxy. Having you as an ally increases my power as it is my desire to see you father taken down a peg. Additionally I can tell that this will be a highly profitable venture" He smiled, his voice and demeanor had managed to revert back to that of a caring mentor. It was almost the same way he spoke with Haust, although with Haust there was much less of an affectionate tune. He was preparing Haust for the vigor of the life of a Sith. Hell, Callidus half expected Haust to try to kill him at each and every turn. Even if his fear was unfounded, it still gave him pause and less personal affection.

He felt that his last sentence would be an excellent means to bring out the fact that what separated Danica and Callidus was merely training and so he followed up his last statement with, "But what does your intuition tell you? Something tells me that you likely have always had a strong one." Again his words took on something of a caring, almost fatherly tone. He had quickly realized his flirtatious approach was getting him no where so he dropped it. He put a slight emphasis on intuition because Callidus knew it was not mere intuition that guided her.

[Poludnica]

Instinctively she looked for sarcasm and backhanded compliment in his words. Danica wasn't used to praises, especially coming from men like her father. It was by now a habit to seek for malice. Cassius would often play it nice but when you looked closer, there was insult after insult after insult. Snide, passive aggressive, condescending and patronizing. At first Callidus comment seemed that way at first but Dany stopped her suspicious mind to to go into places potentially dangerous. It didn't matter of the Sith Lord put himself above her, giving his affiliation he probably thought anyone beneath him. It was important he seemed inclined to help, nothing else mattered. ”There is always a purpose behind what I do.” The woman said slowly, still feeling tension in her body, though now more from anticipation than fear.

Despite all the dread that the Sith and dark jedi brought, one even had tried to kill her, Danica just couldn't stop herself but to be drawn toward this taint. It was exciting, thrilling. The moment she had met her first dark sider the young woman knew something in them resonated with her. With what she wanted and deep down Dany wasn't much different from Cassius. She wanted power, so no one could dismiss her like it had happened for years. Bashful smile graced her lips at Callidus' speech. ”I agree that we can help each other, a common goal makes good allies.” She wasn't much convinced if wanted to be a tool in increasing power of a Sith lord but nothing came without a price.

The woman was now much calmer, appreciating the fatherly approach, feeling much more safer, though keeping in mind it could still be a game just to earn her trust to use later. This paranoia wouldn't be something Danica wanted to let go, it had kept her alive as much as alliances she had made. Nevertheless Callidus had no gain nor motive to harm her, doing that would only be a favor to his rival. Armed in newly found confidence, Dany reached for another drink. Feeling assured enough to get slightly tipsy.

”My intuition?” The girl blinked surprised, wondering what did he mean by that. But she knew of course, those strange feelings that often brew at the edge of her conscience. Warning her, giving silent advice if to take another step. The problem was Danica only on occasions followed those feelings, deeming them silly when met with rational facts. Too many times the dark haired girl begrudgingly had to admit she should have had listened to it.

”I thought everyone has it.” Danica shrugged dismissively. Her emotions were often strong, shifting currents but it didn't change the fact she was a rational and logical thinker rather than believer in guessing. This was main reason why the woman strove so much to put reigns on her passions that clouded common sense and good judgment.

[Cavalry King]

And so it began. Callidus could sense in this girl a strong passion, ambition, and a penchant for the thrilling. These were all traits that Jedi would preach volumes against, all because they were some of the most common traits that led to the Dark Side. This girl had far too many attachments and her hatred for her father could serve as an infinite source of hatred and passion to fuel her fall. Callidus knew he would have to be cautious and careful with this process. He looked on Danica right now like an adolescent Akk Dog, vacillating between recklessly pushing forward, and fleeing at the sight of trouble. Force sensitives seemed to scare her, especially Sith. If he simply laid it all out from the start, she might be frightened off. No, the Dark Side required careful seduction. It was like a drug parents preach against their children trying even once. People shy away from it but tempted to call upon it even once, it might ensnare you forever.

Callidus sensed her change of emotion, however her new confidence would have been easily seen from her actions. Almost chuckling as he said it Callidus replied, "Not like you Danica. Yours has always been especially strong, and... especially accurate has it not?" In feigned tone of doubt Callidus continued, "I believe you have always been good at predicting things, somehow knowing them before they happen."

Callidus casually leaned over to pour himself another drink while he spoke to her. Casually and with his back turned he said, "I presume that is why you felt comfortable enough to meet me here. A meeting of my choosing - the time, the date, the location. A potentially fatal arrangement."

Satisfied with his new round of Corellian Brandy he turned back to her, holding his cup in front of him Callidus said in a calm, professional yet still very friendly manner, "As for your proposal? I will take 5% of your early profits as your enterprise gets some wind beneath its sails. Once it has developed as a profitable, self-sustaining enterprise, I want 15% of your profits - not total earnings - just profits. I will extend a 2 million credit line if you wish it, at 10% annual interest - Galactic Standard Years of course. Agree to these terms and I will see to it that your clubs are the talk of the galaxy."

He drank from his cup and looked at her from over its brim. He was curious to see how she responded. Callidus was curious to see what Haust was thinking about the whole affair. As their relationship developed, they would be more able to read each other, even at vast distances, however for now Callidus was opting to focus his attention on Danica. Haust was very strong in telepathic force powers so Callidus would have to be very cautious if he was trying to poke around in Haust's mind. Callidus had always emphasized to Haust the necessity to always shield one's mind, even if he didn't expect any threats.

[Raytheon]

A small smirk formed on Haust's lips not at the mention of intuition but rather her questioned notion of it. "She doesn't know... interesting." Haust thought aloud for Callidus to hear the man was always listening. Haust learned from both him and experience to block his thoughts constantly should the mental voyeur be watching and listening. A small smirk formed at the left side of his lips as he focused on the reflection of her from the transparisteel paneling before reaching into his tunic pocket and pulled out a silver cigarette casein a single hand, with the flick of his thumb opening it. Plucking out a single black and gold papered cigarette and slipping it between his lips before closing the case and slipping it back into the pocket.

Holding two fingers up in the fashion of a 'peace' symbol with his right index and middle finger he arched a small charge of force lighting, pressing the tip of the cigarette in between before lighting the cigarette and puffing out a few plumes of smoke from the sides of his mouth. The tip glowing bright orange as he took in the menthol smoke, exhaling it through his nostrils.

However the thoughts began to rush through Haust's head calculating the five percent, and the eventual jump in fifteen percent. Depending on the venture it could result in the net of millions for Callidus though of course through actions of causality, aiding Danica would be a cause and the most calculable effect is profit but also actions on the side of Cassius. A small but nevertheless obstacle in the path long term but easily remedied.

He pulled his view from the reflection only after a slight distraction on the casino floor, a man accusing the dealer of cheating before withdrawing a vibro blade and attempting to stab her. Haust canted his head bringing the cigarette back to his lips as he inhaled the refreshing menthol smoke into his lungs before exhaling it again as security personnel grabbed the man, confiscating his chips and dragging him kicking and screaming curses to the back rooms.

The man was low income, not a Zeltron and likely never heard from again, if lucky he would be found by law enforcement nearly dead somewhere. While Many casinos usually abide by the law, this wasn't a usual casino. A Casino on Zeltron run by a human no less wasn't hard pressed to succeed without breaking rules to achieve advancement. Haust smiled, the man would be his to determine a fate for later after this meeting.

[Poludnica]

Her lips poofed out indignantly as soft, embarrassed flush stained them. Despite fatherly demeanor and charming attitude toward her, Danica felt being assessed. The woman straightened up and wriggled slightly, unsure of what to do with her body. She couldn't exactly escape from her seat and put off the final decision. The woman had nagging feeling, whatever was happening now would be a turning point of some kind. As if the talk about this strange intuition primed something. ”Maybe...” Danica started, suddenly wondering about Cassius' decisions. There were things the man just shouldn't have known and in most cases he was right. Aside from business venture with Callidus, of course. Curious.

”I try to make reasonable choices.” She frowned slightly, catching strangely enticing smoke. Her eyes turned to Haust who enjoyed a luxurious looking cigarette. The man had stayed silent so far; a fact that made her curious. Was this his choice or a demand of his master? The woman's inquiring gaze lingered on the fair haired man for a while, before snapping back to Callidus. His question taking her by surprise for a moment. Dany didn't feel coming here was more risky than anything else she had done for last few couple of weeks, yet there were meetings the woman declined. The ones she didn't really felt like going to.

With gentle movement Danica waved away curls of smoke that wafted through the aromatic air, thinking about Callidus' remark. What was this all about? ”I don't understand, why my intuition is so important to you?' Dany asked bluntly, tired of that strange game. She didn't tolerate well vague situations that meaning escaped her. Danica hated to feel like a misguided idiot.

But one thing the girl knew and blinked, her surgically crafted features marred a frown of confusion. It wasn't the worst kind of deal. Fifteen percent sounded steep but it was from profit only, which ensured she wouldn't go down to zero. A Sith could be so generous? Maybe he hated Cassius enough or there was a catch?

What kind of catch though?

The woman nodded, biting down on her lower lop, her green gaze trailing off to the mysterious apprentice whose silence slowly became disturbing. Why to attend a meeting and only watch? Was this some kind of trick? ”What do you think mister Haust, is this a good deal?” She didn't expect an honest answer really but anything really.

That was a good deal for a fugitive running from her father as Callidus could certainly say she was rather desperate to meet her father's sworn enemy. And knowing that, the Sith lord appeared to be a decent man, who was willing to offer her more power than own parent had ever wanted.

[Raytheon]

”What do you think mister Haust, is this a good deal?”

In the few seconds it took for him to turn and meet eye with her he hadn't considered being asked that question. It wasn't a logical, while the question was it's intended party was not. Haust was the inferior to Callidus in the meeting venue and while it could be deemed offensive to question him in front of his inferior. Haust merely turned around towards her, the black papered cigarette between his lips as he pulled it out and held it firmly between with right index and middle finger exhaling the long trails of smoke from his nostrils.

His expression flat and uninterested was far from the truth of the matter as he looking to Callidus then to her. The look was to gain a degree of approval before speaking or at best showing that you acknowledge his presence. His voice was casual yet toned in a slight informative fashion.

"The deal, yes it's a good deal, if you make a hundred credits he takes only five. Most legal agents charge twenty here you get the protection offered, known association, advertisement plus the line of credit better than a bank could offer you.

Though I suspect you'll rake in somewhere near the millions, What my master asks for is a small fraction of it. In the end both parties win..."

He finished pulling the cigarette back to his lips before pulling it away the thick white smoke lingering in his mouth before being suddenly inhaled and exhaled back out in a large plume.

"Just found the Litzen party licking the walls in the men's restroom." A voice spoke out in his ear wing that made him smirk slightly he stood there looking to Danica as he leaned back against the Transparisteel panel. Crossing his arms and holding the cigarette in between his fingers on the outside crossed arm.

[Cavalry King]

Callidus lightly chuckled at her confusion and thought to himself, she really hasn't a clue... Interesting. He was about to reply when she asked a most strange question. She asked Haust about the details of their deal. He was at first annoyed that she would seek to circumvent his position like that and ask his apprentice for his opinion. Had she been Sith, those could have been her last words. Callidus was a pragmatic man though and allowed the slight to pass. In fact he was curious as to how Haust would respond. He turned to face the man and put his arms behind his back. When Haust looked to him, Callidus nodded in approval. Callidus knew Haust to be loyal, he doubted that Haust would challenge his authority here and now.

The answer was acceptable and Callidus smiled under his mask. He turned back to Danica and spoke with slight amusement, "It seems our friend here also thinks this would be mutually beneficial. All that matters though is what you think..."

Callidus brought a hand to his mask and idly rubbed his chin. "Always consider Danica why terms are offered the way they are, especially initial terms. What can I gain and what is the strength of my bargaining position?" He was teaching her, he realized. Part of him was yelling that he should have taken advantage of the situation, but he quickly quelled that thought. Here he could have a powerful ally, if he only cultivated her for it. Her force sensitivity only made that notion all the stronger.

Callidus hatched an idea, he detached his lightsaber from his belt and offered it to her. Immediately though he began to sense for danger and heightened his telepathic abilities, trying to detect any aggressive thoughts from anyone nearby. Even though he offered it to her, he felt confident he could use to force to snatch it back in the event of danger. Callidus was never one to leave himself vulnerable.

As he handed her the blade he said, "Here, ignite this. I want to show you something."

Lightsabers were incredibly dangerous weapons, especially for the wielder if untrained, or worse, non-force sensitive. The issue with lightsabers is that they are deadly from all angles and have no counterweight. The blade part weighs nothing so the body has no way to feel where the blade it. What makes force sensitives able to use it however, is that the force tells them where the blade is, thus they don't cut themselves with it. Non-force sensitives don't have this ability. Thus it is almost impossible for them to use one. Callidus wondered how much Danica knew about the challenges of lightsaber use, but he would use this principle to demonstrate her latent abilities to her.

[Poludnica]

The woman nodded slowly, turning her gaze away from the fair haired man, expecting nothing else but for the apprentice to agree with his master. What was more important, she confirmed her initial feelings toward Haust and something about this Sith gave her creeps. Why, Danica couldn't tell, maybe the way he smirked or his flat, indifferent voice with only hints of casual tone.

Brrrr.. Dany shook off the shudder and returned her attention to the masked man, whose demeanor didn't seem to change apart from faint amusement playing in his voice. She fixed her gaze at the dark mask as if it could tell her true intentions of its owner. It looked less and less like negotiations and more like some strange classes in how to bargain a Sith. He could ask for more, could force Danica to give him half of the earnings for sheer protection. The Outer Rim was his background with all the toys slapped 'owned' on them.

And yet Callidus didn't even try to get more. The cautious part of her screamed 'no', that there had to be a catch. Danica was a mistrustful creature, especially of men, Sith and business partners. Callidus was all that but she desperately needed a powerful ally as her father was no easy to get rid off. ”I agree.” She simply said, with a faint smile. It was a gamble of course, a deal with the devil but Cassius didn't leave her much choice in that regard. The arrangement seemed to be good but Callidus had cheated his business partner before but that was a risk Danica has to agree on.

Then she saw him reaching for the saber and tensed up immediately, her muscles coiled, preparing for the worst but the attack never came, only the strangest of offers. Sudden fear relinquished her but the confusion stayed as for a long moment Danica looked at the lightsaber with bafflement painted all over her pale features before slowly reaching to take it. Once her finger closed on the small, cold handle, she almost sighed feeling it weighted nothing.

How you could even fight with that? Danica has seen people using it, more than once but never actually knew what stand behind the principal. The girl's curious gaze moved up, searching for any clues but the mask remained empty and cold. ”How do you even...” The woman shook the handle and the blade sprung to life. With a response too fast to even register in her consciousness, she moved, avoiding the deadly string of light. By a hair, literally. A long, black curl fell on the floor, cut from loose from the neatly made coiffure. Danica yelped, staring wide eyed at the lightsaber that nearly killed her.

What the...

[Raytheon]

Haust now standing back and watching them as took another long drag from the cigarette and blowing the stream of smoke up to the ceiling vents he watched them both curiously. She seemed very reluctant for a simple business proposition. But the conversation behind all the more interesting as he handed her his lightsaber, it was a curious move that he concocted perhaps a ruse to show her some ability. Regardless of the motivation it was be extremely curious to watch, holding the cigarette in the corner of his mouth to keep the smoke from rising in his nose uncomfortably.

As he watched her clumsily handle it, the emitter close to her face as he debating speaking up, then decided the amusement of killing her self would far outweigh saving her taking and drag and quickly exhaling the smoke from both mouth and nostrils he watch amusingly as the blade turned on and she only barely missed her own head instead cutting away parts of her own hair.

He didn't flinch nor show an expression of concern or care, while many would contribute this to him being a Sith the reality was he didn't care. When a person died to carelessness or ineptitude, he found it as a course of nature weeding out the weak rather than tragedy to be mourned over. "She survived.." was the thought the ran through it head, it wasn't hidden as his many thoughts but an obvious surface thought he didn't care if Callidus heard it.

The room illuminated crimson as the blade turned on and even the fearful reluctance of the women that flanked Callidus's sides were flinched and intimidated. A small chuckle that lasted only a fraction of a second left his lips as he cleared his throat reaching to pull the cigarette from his lips as he inspected the cigarette before sticking it back between his lips.

However he quickly crossed his arms a single hand ventured into his jacket, his finger tips softly grasping the hard metal grip of his curve hilt lightsaber worn in a shoulder holster fitted for the design of curve hilt sabers to keep concealed in business suits.