Dance with the Devil

[Nicolás Cormond]

Wakeelmui was not a proud world, nor a very important one. Situated in the Inner Rim and recently colonized, the planet held little industry that most worlds long already had, and despite its rolling hills and vast forests, it was neither known for its natural beauty unlike Alderaan or Chandrila. Still, its position along the Hydian Way still gave it some taste of galactic traffic, therefore interesting the Republic into involving itself onto the planet and its residents. While its population had not declared itself for the Republic, the Senate was hoping to change that. And not only the Senate, but especially Nicolás Cormond. Given Wakeelmui was a close neighbor to Brentaal on the Hydian Way, he was desperate to leave a trace of his influence on the world and its government.

Unfortunately, the partner the Republic insisted he take with him was none other than Aurora Adasca. Senator of Arkania, a personal rival and an all-around ignoramus, Nicolás was not very pleased with having to negotiate alongside the likes of that woman. He couldn’t stand it. On the whole journey from the Core and to the wayward planet, he refused to even acknowledge her presence, instead keeping to himself in his personal cabin and occasionally peeking out from the cockpit to see how long they had to go. Of course, he knew, there was no escape from her. Nicolás was going to have to confront her eventually. A confrontation that finally came to a head once he woke to the hum of the engines and the ache of the transport as it descended into the planet’s atmosphere.

The Senator groaned. Once he was signaled by one of his personal guards, the man quickly dressed himself up for the occasion. Wrapped in his typically suave outfit shipped straight from Brentaal and with his hair pulled back, Nicolás was more than ready to take on these negotiations. What he was not ready for, however, was how he would deal with the woman bound to badger him every step of the way. Already, he imagined Senator Adasca would allow these proceedings to fail simply to spite him. Of course, he didn’t know the woman long, but the moment the two had met, he instantly knew she meant trouble. And not the eccentric, kinky kind. But a practical thorn in his side.

He stepped from the confines of his room. Slowly but surely, he moved for the transport exit. And needless to say, there was Aurora, standing patiently, waiting for guidance off to the city palace. Not wanting for her to throw in the first word, Nicolás cleared his throat and stepped up to the ramp. “You’re out early, Senator Adasca.” A pause. “Or have you just been waiting here since we left Coruscant?”

@Malon

 

[Aurora Adasca]

.

Wakeelmui was beautiful. A world covered in oceans of lush greenery and dark forests. She wished Arkania was like this instead of the cruel, frigid shell that it was. Perhaps some saw it as lesser in beauty than the more traditional Core Worlds, such as Alderaan, but, to a woman like Aurora, it was in a league of its own. But she was not here to fawn over the greenery. This was a diplomatic mission aimed to bring Wakeelmui, freshly colonized, into the Republic. And who else would they (they being, of course, the Senate) stick her with than her longtime rival: Nicolás Cormond.

He thought he was so clever, hiding away in his quarters, giving her the silent treatment like some cowering cave rat. She saw through his game and was all too happy to let him play it. Let him expend all of his energy brooding in the shadows. She had better things to do. Her dress, for instance. Today it was blue — the color of her eyes, except perhaps slightly darker — and featured a loose cape draped over her shoulders and secured around her neck. She wore the tooth of an Arkanian dragon for a necklace, and her platinum-blonde hair was braided back into a ponytail. She looked positively ravishing if she said so herself.

She was putting the final touches on her hair when a handmaiden walked in and informed her that they had arrived. A moment later, she was waiting dutifully at the bottom of the landing ramp, her dress slightly fluttering in the wind. She at least was more punctual than her traveling companion, who came sauntering down the ramp a few moments later.

He spoke first. Of course he did. He always had the first word. She didn't even resist the urge to roll her eyes and then arch her brow. "Some of us understand the meaning of punctuality," she replied sharply. "Others, quite apparently," she looked him up and down condescendingly "do not. Now, are you going to lead the way, or are you quite content to continue gawking at me all morning?" @Deviant

.

 

[Nicolás Cormond]

A royal shawl, eyes like sapphire, silver hair that twirled down to her shoulders, a blue dress secured around her slender frame. Any other man would have instantly fallen for the woman then and there. They would have glanced in her direction, widen their eyes and adjusted their pants. But Nicolás was not one of those men. He might be willing enough to accept whatever or whoever came at him, man or woman, but Senator Adasca was one exception. It was hard to find her attractive when her personality was as riveting as a piece of tax legislation and as pasty as her complexion. That, and her words never failed to cut deep. Already, she was making the rounds, and Nicolás was not having it. If she was going to breath fire, then he would douse her in a little kerosene and watch her crash and burn.

“Apologies for staring, Senator.” He offered a guilty nod of his head. By the seemingly genuine tone of his voice, it was almost as if he was conceding early in their match of words. Until he opened his mouth again, of course. “But we on Brentaal have a penchant for exploring the strange and unknown.” He flashed a smile, a reference to how a native of his world had charted one of the hyperroutes firsthand. While a bloated analogy, Nicolás relished in his glaring taunts and insults. There was nothing he enjoyed more than roasting one of his greatest rivals. Still, the Senator was not intent on letting these negotiations go to waste simply because of their ongoing rivalry. He already sacrificed much of his well-being just being within her vicinity, so he might as well make the trip worth it.

“Although, thank you for reminding me. I had almost forgotten how condescending you can be.” He took a defiant step forward and into the open air. It had been sometime since he reveled in fresh air. The other Senator had clogged much of the ship with her aggravating presence since the start of the trip, so he was glad to be free from it. Then again, on the other hand, he was not free of the Senator just yet. Nicolás only had to win the appreciation of this backwater government and get these negotiations over with, and then he could be rid of the Arkanian Senator. Of course, who was to say the pair would not leave this world as colleagues, rather than contenders in the Game? Nicolás always was searching for new allies, even if Aurora was a little on the stingy side, perhaps that could change.

Yeah, right. As the Senator approached the entrance into the manor that would be holding the negotiations, he brushed off the idea of ever befriending the woman. There were more important things to worry about, like the opposing diplomats waiting behind the now open gate. One, in particular, reached out and gave a fleeting bow to each Senator. “Welcome to Wakeelmui, Senators. We have been waiting.”

@Malon

 

[Aurora Adasca]

Aurora smirked as Nico trotted off the ramp. Let him have his little comebacks. She saw them for what they were. He was licking himself like a wounded animal, and they were only just getting started. They had two things in common, these very polar opposite Senators: she found him as attractive as he found her. At least superficially. He was crisp and clean and as handsome as they made them in the Republic. Pity he had the personality of pygmy rancor.

While dealing with him was always fun in some ways, Aurora knew she had to be careful with him. In her mind, there was no one more ambitious than Nicolás in all the Republic. He would be willing to cut any corner or anyone to get what he wanted. She just needed to make sure she wasn't one of them; and, all the while, she needed to make sure these negotiations went in favor of the Republic. She was at least somewhat certain they shared that goal, as well, so perhaps there was a silver-lining to this all.

She admired the scenery as they made the journey towards the manor. This world truly was beautiful (quite unlike the soul of the one she traveled with). Perhaps, when this was all done, she would visit again in her leisure time. Yes, she imagined she would quite like that. She could come with her handmaidens — She glanced to the side at Nico. — they were better company anyways.

Alas, this was her lot in life. She was stuck with him for now. Might as well make the best of it. They arrived at the manor moments later and a diplomat emerged to greet them. Aurora stepped forward and bowed in answer to the diplomat's own bow. A pleasant smile adorned her face. Her words, on the other hand, were anything but.

"We apologize for our tardiness," she said politely. "My companion, here, took a bit too long to adjust himself on the landing ramp. But, as you can see," She turned slightly, arched a brow at Nico, and smirked "he's quite alright now." She turned her gaze back to the diplomat. "Shall we begin?" @Deviant

 

[Nicolás Cormond]

The diplomat eyed each of the Senators, curious but ultimately indifferent. They could sense something going on between the pair. Whether it was a sour relationship, a case of some lover’s quarrel or nothing more than a quick excuse, the diplomat did not idle on the subject any further. Rather, he gave a seemingly understanding nod and guided the two Senators into the depths of the palace. Beyond the archaic walls, behind the host of armored guards, at the heels of the gate, a vast estate made itself known. Prismatic gardens, a cobblestone courtyard, pillars covered in vines and token engravings. Despite its age, and the planet’s name as a backwater world, the manor was beyond what Nicolás expected. He had underestimated Wakeelmui.

Perhaps that was why the Republic had opened these negotiations. As vast as they were, the Senate was always looking to expand. Especially with the sudden resurgence of the Exiles and the prying influence of the Hutt Cartel, the Republic would need all the help it could get. Of course, Nicolás did not seriously care for these conferences. At least, he was not doing it for the Republic. In reality, the planet was one of the stepping stones along the Hydian Way, and if he could wrap his fingers around this world, and then Brentaal? He would become one of the most powerful men in the whole galaxy. Then again, Senator Adasca was not helping with maintaining his stellar image and reputation. She was meddlesome, troublesome. He couldn’t allow it.

But what more could Nicolás do? Tell her off? They had entered the belly of the beast, the den of lions, and if they squabbled with one another any longer, they both would be the ones torn apart. Still, the Senator was not willing to concede just yet. He would just have to hold back, to maintain a thin veil as he balanced between fighting words with Aurora and the diplomats strolling before him. So, Nicolás did what he thought best: both. “The Senate is very grateful to Wakeelmui for opening their borders, and their minds, to these negotiations. Many other worlds opt to keep to themselves, to cling to the past, rather than embrace the future and the security it brings.” He glanced at Aurora. “Should Wakeelmui choose to fully connect to the Republic and its ideals, I am certain prosperity will come your way, as it has for Brentaal.”

@Malon

 

[Aurora Adasca]

Shameless self-promotion, was it, Senator? She was convinced bragging about Brentaal's physical location (and the wealth it had accrued as a result) was what got him off at night. Perhaps, she thought with an inward smirk, even at this very moment. But as much as imagining Nicolás getting off might be appealing, she needed to focus on the moment at hand. She couldn't afford to let him take the lead, nor let him win their little game.

What she couldn't seem to figure out was what he was really playing at. What did he stand to gain from all of this? Nico was not a man who left Coruscant or Brentaal unless he stood to directly benefit from the mission. So what was the benefit on this world? He was clearly miffed that she had publicly humiliated him; his body language said as much. That must mean he wanted to maintain his image for these people... for some reason.

She was certain that she could get him to reveal his hand somehow over the course of these negotiations. He was already trying to bring his homeworld into the equation. Perhaps some subtle digging would force him to play his best cards early. Or maybe she wouldn't be subtle at all. "I share my colleague's gratuitous tidings. We are very grateful for your willingness to participate in these talks. The state of the galaxy is uncertain from day-to-day, so the Republic is fortunate you are considering membership." Now, like a viper, she struck. She turned to face Nico ever-so-slightly. "Come to think of it, both your worlds lay along the Hydian Way, don't they, Senator Cormond? Why don't we begin by having you tell our hosts just how membership in the Republic has benefited Brentaal's trade revenues."

The arched eyebrow was implied. @Deviant

 

[Nicolás Cormond]

Despite his underlying taunt, Senator Adasca seemed to be stepping back too. Had her wit and wordplay finally crash into the muck where it belonged? The only thing left for her to do was force to agree with his statement, to concede to the fact that Brentaal was the better. After all, by opening its mind rather than shutting others out like that of Arkania, it had indeed prospered. But Nicolás knew not to underestimate the young woman. Like a snake, she was rearing her ugly head back, hiding behind a veil of reconciliation, before she would strike. And indeed she did. Because not a moment later, Aurora angled her head into his direction and shifted the conversation against him.

Looks like the bitch can bite as hard as she barks. He thought to himself, seeing what she getting at. The Senator was attempting to expose him, to force him into saying what he either shouldn’t or couldn’t say so early into their meeting. Fortunately, Nicolás would ensure he tread this road carefully, and when he was done, he would only tighten the leash. And if she snarled again, it was back to the kennel. He could not allow the other Senator to throw the whole negotiations, or at least his own hidden ambitions, into jeopardy. Nicolás was hoping to plant the seed of influence on Wakeelmui, but Senator Adasca was the weed swaddled around it, desperate to never allow the grain to grow into crop for him to reap. So, he would just have to pull the weed out from its root.

“As a member of the Republic, Brentaal has been given a say on how best to manage its business. By connecting with the countless other worlds through the Senate firsthand, by having the chance to make its voice known, we are able to trade more freely. Lacking tariffs, no need for permits or fees I am sure Wakeelmui must deal with when trading with the Republic. When united together, we virtually unite each of our very different markets. And in doing so, Brentaal has benefited greatly.” He smiled. While he could not have avoided playing one of his cards early, Nicolás had a lot of cards to play. He was only getting started, and by doing so, his charming image was only growing. And what did Senator Adasca have to show for it? Nothing. Absolutely nothing.

She had walked into a trap with her very own words as the pair walked into the polished confines of the manor. Now, it was her turn to answer the question, and from what Nicolás knew of Arkania, he doubted she had anything worth providing. While it might hurt the Republic’s stance in these negotiations, he was more concerned about his stance with Wakeelmui rather than the Senate’s. “What of Arkania, Senator Adasca? If I understand correctly, both of your worlds stand on the verge within the Inner Rim. How has the Arkania’s participation in the Republic come to benefit their, as I’m sure, thriving world.”

His own arched eyebrow was also implied.

@Malon

 

[Aurora Adasca]

He was a brilliant soothsayer. Aurora had always thought so; he was gifted in talking his way out of almost every hole he found himself in. But what impressed her the most about him was that he was able to spar with her, and her with him, all the while making a very convincing case for membership in the Republic. Honestly, the both of them would make a brilliant Supreme Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor duo... were he not such a manipulative bastard.

She matched his gaze a moment. His eyebrow arched, as hers had before, but her eyes twinkled knowingly. She knew what he was doing, or trying to do, at least. Okay, pretty boy, she thought, If its a game you want to play, let's play. She smirked at him, hoping to unnerve him ever-so-slightly, then she turned back to the diplomat and put on her pleasant mask once again. She was, she had to admit, way too good at this politician thing.

"Arkania has also benefited from the trade laws of the Republic. Access to the Republic's vast trade markets has done wonders for our diamond exports." She smiled again and paused a moment, feigning thought. "We have also seen a boom in business, particularly in our health and technology sectors. The influx of credits and customers has kept our economy bustling." Now she smirked, and wasn't afraid to let it be seen. She hoped Nico was at the very least miffed, or fuming, preferably. "As a result, we have some of the most technologically advanced and prosperous cities in the Republic. You really must visit sometime."

She paused to let this all sink in. Of course, Arkania had its issues. Segregation was still a problem, along with a variety of other social issues; but she was the proof that it was slowly beginning to change. Her progressive mindset had already won her a Senate seat. How long until it infected the minds of her species and brought Arkania up to the times?

"But you must forgive us," she went on. "One's economy is certainly important when considering membership in the Republic. We were began as a trade coalition, after all. But, with the recent affairs in the galaxy, you must be more concerned with foreign policy." She could almost at once see the diplomat perk up. Her head turned again to Nico, and she feigned a most pleasant look—veiled, of course, for smug triumph. "Perhaps I might allow Senator Cormond to take over here. His work, after all, in ensuring the Republic's security from its enemies is, as I'm sure you're aware, legendary."

She cocked her eyebrow a second time, and her lips curled upward in another smirk. Nico always did what was in his best interest. The Republic's, though? That was a matter of perspective. She was quite intrigued to see what perspective he pulled out of his ass for this one. She was certain it would prove most enlightening. @Deviant

 

[Nicolás Cormond]

There it was, the smirk. That taunting, twisted grin. If only he could slap that smug smile off her face, but he knew he would only draw the ire of the diplomats before him. After all, Wakeelmui treated their wildlife with respect, so there was little reason for him to break that tradition by smacking the Arkanian bitch. Still, as an invasive species, he would be doing good for them all. Needless to say, Nicolás stayed his hand and his anger as the other Senator continued to drone on about how amazing her world was. He half-expected the woman to start boasting her dick size just out of spite for him, but he knew if she did have any balls, they would be as shriveled and weak as her attempt to humiliate him. If she seriously wanted to leave a dent in his iron shell, she would have to do better than that.

“Legendary is certainly one way to put it, Senator Adasca.” He said, lips twisted into a forced smile along with a forced chuckle. Fortunately, he was skilled in the art of bullshittery, and he remained unfazed by Aurora’s move against him. While Nicolás knew nothing about chess, he saw it was nothing more than moving a pawn against his king: meaningless. “The Hydian Way is chockfull of trade and traffic. And with that, there will always come pirates, smugglers, the alike scum. Either to prey on the passing caravans or attempt to slip into the Core unnoticed. But with Brentaal, and the help they’ve received from the Republic Judicial Forces? A pirate in the Core is as rare to find as injustice on Arkania. Wouldn’t you agree, Senator?”

He looked down to Aurora, that taunting smile in place, and continued, “The Republic has an excellent record of tolerance and impartiality with its many worlds, and as I’ve heard, so has Arkania. After all, there is nothing more important to the Republic than the rights of its citizens and member worlds.” Aurora had treaded too close to Nicolás, and in doing so, would cost her. If she wanted war, he would give her a war. Already, he couldn’t wait to see what answer she had in store. Or really, what answer she would be pulling out of thin air or from the loose confines of her ass. With Arkania’s own stellar record of oppression and prejudice, he knew her response would make a fitting addition to the hall of bullshittery. “So, please, Senator Adasca. How has the Republic, and Arkania, come to aid in ensuring galactic wide equality?”

That certainly had to be it for her. Meanwhile, the pair were now sauntering through the halls of the elaborate manor, which felt to be a lot larger than he expected. Still, the natural artwork, the ancient history presented within, and the light filtering through the many windows of the corridor painted a beautiful picture to be remembered. Not simply out of its picturesque charm. But mostly because he knew it would be the moment he saw his rival crash and burn. Or at least, stumble as he walked on unscathed.

 

[Aurora Adasca]

But she was ahead of his game. The remark stung, yes, but she had mastered the art of keeping a neutral face whenever surprised. To infuriate him even more, as she knew only she could, she actually smiled in reply. Blue eyes glistened and she made sure to hold his gaze a moment, as if to let him know that he would have to step his game up if he sincerely hoped to cause her to flounder. Her eyes went back to the diplomat.

"A prudent question, Senator," she replied. There was only a bit of edge to her voice. "The Republic is farther along than any other galactic entity in terms of equality. The slave trade is illegal. The rights of non-human species are championed. Sexism and homophobia are discouraged." She took a pause. "The individual systems are another matter, depending on who rules them. But even those still stuck in the old ways are making progress. My world, for instance, is horridly backwards and conservative in its values when compared to others, like Corellia and Chandrila. But look at me." She eyed Nico, smirked, and yanked the rug out from under his veiled trap. "I'm the first progressive-minded Senator to be elected from Arkania. The first of many. So, change is happening."

But she didn't stop there. Nico thought he had craftily avoided her trap by smokescreening with talks of pirates and smugglers. But Aurora was not about to let him escape her net so easily. The diplomats would want to know about the true threats in this galaxy, she told herself; and, it just so happened, she too wanted to know about them—or, rather, she wanted to know what Nico's stance was about them. Where he stood. Not to mention, having his own trap turned against him would no doubt fluster the man who was struggling to keep a straight face.

"But these questions of security and equality bring another important issue to mind. Perhaps the most important: the Exiles and the Hutts." She gave a dramatic pause for emphasis. "If you've paid attention these past few days, the Republic is currently embroiled in issues with both sides. I do not need to remind you the danger and threat both pose, not only to Republic security, but your security—and other worlds like yours." She looked up at Nico. Her eyes glistened again. "Senator Cormond, you're more familiar with these matters than I. Tell us, what is the Republic doing to ensure these very real threats do not undermine its sovereignty, as well as the sovereignty of its member worlds?"

She chose to stand next to him and admire the same painting he had selected. The action was meant to goad him. To show him that she could not be so easily dragged through the mud. To show him that, though she might be a green senator, she was not green in general. Smirking, she thought, No... It will take much more than that to stump me, Senator. @Deviant

 

[Nicolás Cormond]

That smile. That cursed smirk. This whole time, Nicolás assumed her had it in the bag, that Aurora was trapped. Instead, she took the sudden attack like a champ, brushing his piercing words like they were nothing to her. What surprised, and angered him the most, however, was how quick she handled the situation stacked against her. Instead of deflecting, the Senator admitted to Arkania’s atrocities while painting herself an image of progression and grace. It was especially upsetting to Nicolás because he couldn’t even be angry with her for it, since she was right. She was turning his own cards against him, portraying him like some politician who knew nothing of other member worlds. But he would show her. He would not give in so easily to her retaliatory attacks.

“It seems I am more familiar with almost every matter than you are, Senator Adasca.” He answered, his tone laden with nothing but joking camaraderie, yet his face was dipped with displeasure, as if he was a boot and she was an ant. After all, she had also admitted to her lesser judgement on these subjects multiple times before. The only thing she was doing now was reinforcing his superior, if a little flawed, image. “But not to worry. Arkania is only just emerging from the shell of its ignorant past, not just thanks to you Senator, but because of the insistence and security of the Republic. A security I am sure will shift to Wakeelmui as well, my friends.” He said, nodding to each of the diplomats, who only pushed on through the maze of the manor. Fortunately, the hall was growing shorter, and a set of mahogany doors waited at the end. While Aurora gazed at one of the paintings, Nicolás ignored her and just moved on.

“The Cartel sits on the edge of the galaxy and the Exiles have been so recently routed from the Deep Core, scattered and led by just a girl who calls herself Andraste. While growing threats, they pose little threat compared to the full strength of the Republic. Hundreds of worlds united under a single banner, a sizable fleet even during the ongoing peace, and a trained army. Simply existing is enough to safeguard the sovereignty of any world. But if I understand correctly, the Senate will be voting soon on legislation concerning direct action against these vile threats. A vote I am sure Wakeelmui would prefer to be apart of.” One of the diplomats glanced back to Nicolás, a strange look plastered over their face. “Standing on the verge of the Inner Rim is dangerous, and leaves your world exposed to such threats. With the Republic, our name alone could hold them back.”

With that, he turned to the other Senator, satisfied. Still, as much as he hated the young woman, he was starting to respect her stubborn resolve and clever wit. If his own career with Wakeelmui wasn’t on the line, perhaps he would have found it entertaining. But the game was never meant to be entertainment. The game was a fight to the death, and only one of them would survive by its end. Or so Nicolás believed.

@Malon

 

[Aurora Adasca]

"Which brings us up to speed," she said, completing his thought. She remained rooted in her spot, next to the painting, fingers steepled and staring down the hall where Nico had led the diplomats. They turned to face her and she slowly began to pace back towards them. She wouldn't let him lead the pack, nor would she allow him the last word. "It is a lot to digest, but it is my sincerest hope that the information we have shared with you will convince you that membership in the Republic is in your best interest."

Her eyes flicked up to Nico, but there was no smirk this time. Instead, her eyes were more akin to daggers. "And do not allow my esteemed colleague's patriotism to fool you. The Republic has suffered decades of war. The enemies we face now are real and they are a threat to us all." She gave the briefest of pauses. Then, she added, "We must all band together, now, in these grave times. Apart, we can do nothing but wait like pigs for slaughter. Together, though, we can resist and even defeat the encroaching darkness and usher in a new age of peace and prosperity for our galaxy."

There, the case had been made, and she had learned exactly what she wished to know. Routed, were they? Just a girl, was she? And what was this nonsense about the Hutts sitting on the edge of the galaxy, when just last week the Senate held a hearing on Hutt corruption on Alderaan? She hoped he could see her expression. This conversation, for the two Senators at least, was not over. But she could deal with that at a later time.

"I am sure you have much to discuss. Please, feel free to deliberate in private. Senator Cormond and myself will remain out here and respect your privacy." Her eyes cut from them to Nico, and she spoke to them with her gaze firmly locked with his. "Besides, Senator Cormond and I need to do some deliberating of our own."

The diplomats seemed bewildered, but they pushed their way through the mahogany doors at the end of the hall to do their deliberations, leaving the two Senators alone for the first time since their arrival. Aurora clasped her hands and waited until she was certain they could no longer hear; then, her eyes went back to Nico. The mask of politics had fallen away, and she began to pace, circling him as a predator might its prey.

"You play the game well," she confessed. "But now there is no one here to put on a show for." She stopped pacing, but her gaze remained locked with his. "You have a purpose here. Not just for them," She motioned towards the mahogany doors "but for me as well. It's in your words, your glances, your very posture. And since your sense of fashion is beyond repair, I can only presume your aims are strictly political. So, I will be direct: what is it that you want so badly, Nicolás?" @Deviant

 

[Nicolás Cormond]

Kriffing hell. His latter lecture on the security of the Republic had not contained even a sliver of an insult toward Senator Adasca, but she spared no expense at seeking to undermine him with a whole other point of view. Not only was she endangering his stellar image he tried to meticulously paint for the diplomats, but she was now leaving them bewildered with the ever shifting change in argument. Still, they seemed to care less than what Nicolás expected, their focus instead remained on Wakeelmui’s participation and their own personal deliberation of the matter. Because a moment later, the diplomats were gone. Disappearing behind the set of mahogany doors, out of view and out of earshot. The only thing left was Nicolás and an unsurprisingly predatory Aurora.

Not that the man felt seriously threatened by her. All her taunts, while annoying, hadn’t done the damage she might have expected. Even as she circled around him with an expressionless scowl in place, he could had to stop himself short of laughing. The other woman was shorter, even with her head held high and her eyes defiant, she was like a sheep wandering around a wolf. Meanwhile, Nicolás only watched on, giving less than a damn for her presence and shift in personality. Until she admitted he was a skilled player of the Game, of course. Again, not that it was enough to ease his view of her, because a moment later, she was back to questioning his true purpose here and insulting his sense of style. Typical.

“Save your breath, Senator. I’m sure you’ll need it to suck off your superiors back on Arkania.” Nicolás wasn’t in the mood to answering her questions, having preferred giving her the silent treatment or the palm of his hand whenever she attempted to wiggle her way into his personal business. Still, with the diplomats out of the way, he couldn’t help but give in. Not just to Aurora, but to his own cutthroat intentions. So, after a moment of hesitation, he finally answered. “But there are a lot of things I want, Aurora.” Her name fell like poison from his lips. “For you to find some common sense, or maybe learn some respect. For your colleagues and for yourself.” He rolled his eyes.

“If it wasn’t clear enough, Senator Adasca, I’m obviously looking to align myself with Wakeelmui. Their position on the Hydian Way isn’t just vital to the Republic, but to Brentaal.” He almost scoffed. “And here I thought you had it figured out. I suppose you aren’t as smart as I thought you were.” A hint of his respect trickled through his words, but under the mound of insults he threw her way? It would be next to impossible to find. Nicolás was desperate for allies, but with Aurora, he wasn’t that desperate.

@Malon

 

[Aurora Adasca]

Aurora arched an eyebrow. If she was at all bothered by the insults he hurled her way, she didn't show it. In truth she wasn't bothered; this was who Nico was. Or, at least, who he pretended to be. Her gaze remained as her posture: stoney.

"I respect those who earn my respect," she countered pointedly. "Not those who simply think it belongs to them by right." She paused and corrected her posture to feign mock politeness. "But, you're right, where is my common sense? Here I thought I was speaking to a skilled political manipulator. If I had applied my common sense, I would have seen that you were neither skilled nor manipulative. Just a clown dressed up as a sex toy."

She withheld the smirk she was tempted to give him after that last remark. Sometimes, she truly did crack herself up. She rolled her eyes at him and folded her arms tightly up against her chest. When she was positive that he was done brooding, she continued.

"And don't pretend with me. We both know you don't care anything for Brentaal—not truly." She took a few paces towards him, until she was practically chest-to-chest with him. He was taller than she, but she stared up at him and the height difference seemed to vanish. "Every word you've spoken since we arrived here was to elevate yourself. Not the Republic or Brentaal—you. And while I would love nothing more to believe that is a symptom of your less-than-admirable personality, I, unfortunately, know otherwise." Because she knew him, or, at least, knew the way he carried himself. "So, I'll ask again. What is it that you want so badly with Wakeelmui?"

She was, perhaps, the only person in the Republic who dared to stare him down so boldly. Maybe, it was out of some veiled respect for him. Maybe it was because she hated him. Maybe both. She couldn't be sure. He was an enigma to her in many ways. She added only two things to her question after a brief pause. "Why here?" She seemed to gulp. "And why me?" @Deviant

 

[Nicolás Cormond]

A clown dressed up as a sex toy. Now, that was something he wasn’t expecting. His head slowly careened back and his face twisted into a disgusted scowl, as if she had genuinely spit into his face. He took the young woman above such vulgar and direct insults. Even Nicolás, while he never pulled his punches, always kept his taunts and insults on the down low, much like a dagger into the chest. But Senator Adasca brought down an axe onto his head, and she did so without a hint of shame. The roll of her eyes, cross of her arms. Everything about her disgusted him. Now more than ever, Nicolás was ready to slap off whatever balls she decided to grow. Still, he stopped and stuck to his scowl. She wasn’t done yet. But when she was, she’d have hell to pay.

However, her tone shifted from her mindless attack back into those eagle-eyed, sharp-witted taunts. Of course, she already knew Brentaal mattered little to him. He was virtually banished, shunned by his own family and the courts they now controlled. But that was now. Could Nicolás have seriously ignored his own homeworld forever, and stay exiled from what was rightfully his? Ridiculous. With the power base he grew and the bridges he built, the Senator would tear Brentaal back from his father’s hands. While he was influencing Wakeelmui for his own benefit, it was also for the home he sought to regain. Not that Aurora might have ever considered the thought. He supposed that, in her view, he was just a manipulative bureaucrat who had resigned to his fate.

“But you’re wrong, Aurora.” He scoffed, as if he relished in the fact that the Senator was, for once, wrong about him. “What good does influencing a backwater world do for me, especially if Brentaal is the real power on the Hydian Way?” Another scoff. “This is just me planning ahead. Because, soon, Brentaal will be mine. Completely mine. Not like the pathetic control you have over Arkania as some Junior Senator, because even you struggle to end the rooted prejudice of your homeworld. I’m talking about real, tangible power no mere Senator has. And when I take it, Wakeelmui will already be mine, and with them, so will the Hydian Way. Behind the Chancellor herself, I will become the most powerful Senator in the whole Republic.”

“But, alas. You wouldn’t understand. The only thing you know is a few good quips, and the power you think it gives you.” He towered over her now, his glare now burrowing deep into her own sockets, widening whatever gap she sought to narrow. “The only reason why you’re even here is because the Republic Foreign Committee thought you might make another fine addition to these negotiations, and because I thought so too.” He finally made it known. While news of pairing up with Senator Adasca disturbed him, almost infuriated him, the man had made no real effort into demanding the committee to find someone else. As much as he hated the woman, he knew she perhaps one of the most capable players of the game. “But, it was clear I was wrong about you. Because you’ve been nothing but a pain in my ass since we landed.”

@Malon

 

[Aurora Adasca]

"And what would this power bring you?" There was a noticeable shift in Aurora's demeanor. She had seen something. Behind his quips, behind his scoffs, there was a fire there that wasn't just fueled by anger and spite. No... she saw something there, though she could not put her finger on what it was. "Do you intend to wield it benevolently? To help those who haven't the power you possess? Do you presume it will bring you happiness? Contentment? Security? Why does being the most powerful Senator appear so appealing to you?"

They were genuine questions edged slightly with condescension. The truth was, she didn't know his past, nor had she made an attempt to get to know more of it. She saw him as what he presented himself to be: power-hungry, greedy, and sporting a horse's ass of a personality to boot. She did not see his familial or personal struggles. But would she have understood even if she did?

"And would you look at that? For the first time today, you're absolutely right. I wouldn't understand. I don't." She paused for a moment, and her eyes seemed to search his expression. "But it appears I'm not the only one. I don't care about controlling Arkania or amassing more power. I care that mine will be the first voice that many on Arkania have in the Senate."

But the softness was gone from her now. They said the House of Adasca was forged in the fiery breath of an Arkanian dragon, and Aurora stared him down with all the ferocity of one. His height did not seem to frighten her as much as he hoped it might. Her voice became quiet, but thin, and razor sharp. "You were wrong. Because this isn't about you; and I am not here to make these negotiations easy on you. It's about them." She motioned her head towards the still-closed door. "The future of their world. The future of our Republic. Or have you, in your quest for power, forgotten to which government you represent your people's interests?"

She stopped for a moment and her eyes fell upon the door where the diplomats were deliberating. He would find her expression difficult to read, for her thoughts had drifted elsewhere for a moment. But when she came back, her expression was as icy as her voice. She turned slightly to face him. "If power is what you're after, you shall have it, I have no doubt of that. You are a man who always gets what he wants in the end." Then her face softened. She almost appeared sad. "I just hope you're prepared for the consequences that come with power. The cost, sometimes, is terrible."

It was her one piece of wisdom, offered freely to him. She doubted he would take it, and, if he didn't, she was sure her words would haunt him again some day. But it didn't matter now. She had said her piece. Let him live with the impact. @Deviant

 

[Nicolás Cormond]

Her question bounced around his mind: what would such unbridled power bring? His thoughts screamed back: satisfaction, fulfillment, pride. For his whole life, his father saw him as less than the heir of House Cormond. Despite the foundation and the tower of influence he built in the courts of Brentaal, his father just saw him as a threat to his family name. A dangerous, unpredictable value in the equation. So, he cut him out. He was still his son, still a Cormond, but to Nicolás, he lost everything. Maybe by regaining Brentaal, maybe if he took control of House Cormond on his own and leveled his name to the highest peak of history, he could spite his father for believing what he did. Or, deep down, he could make him proud. Nicolás could be everything he ever wanted.

His voice began to reach a fever pitch, anger woven into every syllable. “Because power brings respect. Respect your bleached mind seems to lack. A respect I haven’t had for almost all my life. But of course you wouldn’t understand that, Senator. I’m just another two-dimensional, cardboard rival without regard for anyone except myself.” He stared her down, this time pushing onto the offensive, both through his words and his looming figure. Already he was making his steps forward, looking to force Aurora to back off. If she hadn’t, then the man would simply push her back through his superior strength. It didn’t matter how hard she looked at him, how much fire laid behind those sickly eyes. She was nothing to him. Absolutely nothing.

They say that the House of Cormond traversed the endless dunes of Brentaal for decades in search for a home, suffering through the heat and the horrors of the desert and sun. He and his people had suffered far worse than whatever fire this Arkanian bitch thought she could conjure. Douse him in kerosene and light the match, she would only make him stronger, brighter, more brilliant than before. Fire could not kill an Arkanian dragon, but neither could it extinguish a sun— or a son— of Brentaal.

“And maybe you’re right, Senator. In my quest for power, I have found that the best interests to serve are my own.” He continued, catching her icy tone, but it was not enough to chill him to the bone. Whatever sense of sympathy she held or bothered to portray, Nicolás cared little for. “There is no cost too great for me to take, no price I am not willing to pay, for what I need.” He held his head high now, defiant and proud. While there was no telling if her words would not sink in later, he remained blissfully unaware. Before either could continue with their taunts and insults and lectures, however, the door behind them swung back open. The diplomats stepped forth, their decision ready.

Nicolás waited for what was to come.

@Malon

 

[Aurora Adasca]

She refused to back down. Sure, she backed up as he marched towards her, but not out of fear; she kept her gaze locked on his to let him know as much. Inwardly, Aurora wondered what could possibly drive a man to such blatant narcissism. Maybe he has daddy issues, she thought light-heartedly not knowing how close to the mark she had hit. She was about to level another quip at him, some form of retaliation because he just could not be allowed to win, but found herself interrupted at the arrival of the diplomats.

They looked on the two Senators — who were practically chest-to-chest and glaring at one another — with some trepidation, but one of the less meek among them stepped forward.

"We have reached a decision," he said carefully. "While there is still a process that needs to be observed by our goverment—the decision ratified and all that—we are going to recommend that our government move ahead with its membership into the Republic. Our world's trade interests and security are best protected and upheld together with the rest of the Republic."

Aurora stepped back from Nicholas. "A wise decision, I assure you," she said, smiling pleasantly. "We will report your decision back to the Senate. The Chancellor will be all too please to welcome Wakeelmui into the fold." Finally, she looked sideways and gave Nico a half-interested glance. "If there is anything more, I'm certain my colleague and I would be more than happy to assist you. Otherwise, I think I speak for us both when I say that we are pleased with the outcome of today's negotiations. You have all been most gracious hosts."

Surely, she thought, Nico could not find a way to ruin that. Perhaps their decision would put him in a better mood, too. She wasn't certain she could take him squabbling with her the entire way back to Coruscant. Perhaps she would have to be the one locked away in her chambers this time. @Deviant

 

[Nicolás Cormond]

The pair were chest to chest, eye to eye. As the diplomats exited, one could have sworn they saw a spark of fire between their disgusted glares. But the moment the pair of Senators saw them, whatever contempt they held for each other immediately disappeared. In a puff of smoke, the flames between either vanished, now replaced with feigned smiles and impromptu pleasantries. “A wise decision indeed.” Nicolás echoed her sentiment, as if they were now the best of friends. “And Senator Adasca is dead on— if you require either of our assistance, be it consulting on what is best for the Hydian Way to how to manage domestic issues, we are always here to help.”

He flashed a wide, white smile. Welcoming, inviting, although that changed little on how the diplomats viewed the pair. They were afraid enough as it was. Already, they were quick to motion the Senators out, nodding willingly and reflecting friendly smiles in turn. “Why, thank you, Senator Adasca and Senator Cormond. We will be sure to keep that in mind.” The man bowed, as did Nicolás, who already figured they would not be contacting the pair anytime soon. But he wasn’t going to take that for an answer. Later on, someday, with Aurora out of the picture, he would be sure to tighten his grip on Wakeelmui, and therefore over the Hydian Way. It didn’t matter what these diplomats saw him as now. In the end, Nicolás always got he wanted.

Except for a trip home free of Aurora. With the negotiations over and what they came for completed, the two Senators would inevitably return to their transport and rot for the next day or two on their way back to Coruscant. Whether he would remain in his cabin again, or ensure Aurora stay locked up in hers, he would soon find out. As long as he didn’t have to look at the damned Arkanian bitch a second longer than he had to, Nicolás was satisfied. He might have got a kick out of his little fight with her though, and in turn found a little more respect. But a bridge was not built, and the Senator doubted it ever would be. She was just too much for him to handle. Still, he was likely going to invite her to the gala he had planned regardless. Maybe, and hopefully, she could act as one of its unfortunate victims. Just a thought, though.

There was still much to plan, and much to do, other than dancing with the devil.