Shaak and Maris – A Star Wars Story – Chapter 17
Valles says goodbye to her grandpa, A contact leads Maris to a major find; A new individual takes an interest in Maris
Thanks to followers: DarthMaine
Chapter 17: So It Shall Be Written
Lianna, 10 BBY 11 months, 28 days
The funeral for Kerred Santhé was proceeding on Lianna, at a suburban location roughly 30 km from the Santhé Tower. Valles had seen to all arrangements personally and her assistant, Lasivia Borges, was in charge of the logistics. The service was a false cremation – but only Valles and her mother Mirella knew that, because the family's Force sensitivity was a very closely guarded secret. Only Valles was with him when he passed away and then his body disappeared. In her office at the Santhé Tower before the service, Valles wept openly again in private, and gave a short monologue – to no one in particular:
"Know this, people of Lianna, and of the Galaxy. Kerred Santhé is no longer walking amongst us, but fortunate we were to have this great man in our midst. The best part of him lives on in me. I shall go forward and complete his mission, and then I shall take it to the next level, and then, to the highest level. Someday, Emperor Palpatine, I shall sit on that throne on Coruscant, but I shall make that planet mine just as I shall do with Lianna. And it shall be a world of beauty and a representation of all I bring to this Galaxy – and the people of the Galaxy shall rejoice that I am their Empress. So it shall be written – so it shall be done."
After she had finished, Valles dried her eyes, then went to her private washroom to check her makeup and put everything right. A quick step into the closet and she changed into her funeral garments – a flowing black satin gown with a three-metre train, of the most basic design, plus an elegant black lace veil to cover her head and all of her long black hair. She then stepped out to the platform and boarded her limo speeder which carried her to the service.
When Valles arrived, her mother and other surviving family members – mostly cousins, aunts, and uncles, as her father was estranged from the family and Valles was an only child – were all seated as she appeared at the podium to eulogize her grandfather.
"Friends, family, fellow Liannese, and honored guests ... we gather today on this solemn occasion to honor the life of a truly great individual. Kerred Santhé was not a tall man, but he was a giant in his time. He was much more than a grandfather to me, he was more of a father. He had a long and fruitful life and over his 125 years he accomplished truly remarkable things. No one else had the vision he did – to see that the Santhé organization could reach the heights that it has, and to see that our cherished home of Lianna could be the shining example to the Galaxy of how life should be lived. It was my grandfather's fondest dream – that our people could all live lives of meaning, without want or fear, and in a place as beautiful as we could make it. And each day that he and I were together, he instilled this vision in me. And I want everyone to know that I will carry on this incredible legacy. When I look out on this land today …" Valles turned around briefly and raised her left arm, then gave a sweeping motion, meant to take in the beautiful view behind her of lakes, hills, fields and mountains, then continued.
"I know what we all do … that Lianna is our birthright, and no one wanted that more than he did. So, as we say goodbye to this great man, let us take a moment of silence to consider our place in this world and this Galaxy, and know that he had as much to do with it as anybody."
After the moment passed, Valles turned and was joined by her mother, who handed her a small torch. She took the torch and lit the funeral pyre to represent the passing on of Kerred Santhé. Soon it was consumed in flame and burned brightly, to softly fizzle out, leaving nothing but a small pile of ash. A round of polite applause ensued, whereupon both Valles and her mother bowed to the crowd. When it was over, Valles wept again, quietly, and was helped into a repulsor chair by her mother, then the two of them left the service together. As they floated away, Valles looked up into the clear turquoise Liannese sky. May the circle be unbroken …
The Wheel, 10 BBY, 11 months, 17 days
Maris and Varda arrived at The Wheel on the Cloudlee. They were on an errand to find more replacement parts for the Order's starships – both the Cloudlee and the Forager. After they had left the landing platform, they headed for Players Club so Maris could have an ale and learn some of the latest scuttlebutt from her friend who tended bar there.
As they took their seats at the bar, Maris spotted her friend. He was a stocky, middle-aged, dark-complexioned man, who had a gregarious manner, one well-suited for his occupation.
"Well, good to see you, my friend. How's my favorite Zabrak?"
Maris laughed. "Ah, Jett, you say that to all the girls."
He laughed in return. "Only the hot ones. And I must say, Maris, this is your night …"
Varda chuckled, and gently patted her friend on her forearm. Maris had on a tight-fitting red dress and matching shoes, leaving little to the imagination.
As Jett poured her a draft, she smiled. "Tell me, what's going on? Anything I should know?"
"Actually, I think you might be interested. Your purple-skinned friend was asking me about you. She has something of a tip."
"Purple?" Maris chuckled. "You'll need to be more specific … I have more than one."
"This would be that pretty Rodian lady. Shelley, I think her name was …"
The name registered immediately. Maris took a swill of the ale, then picked up her com.
"Hel-loooo … yes, it's me. Who did you think it was?" The Zabrak said in a sarcastic manner. "I'm at Players, with a friend … oh, really? … Yeah. Let me finish my beer, and we'll be right over,"
A couple of minutes passed as Maris drained the ale, something she was rather skilled at. She left a 25-credit chip on the bar, and waved bye-bye to Jett.
"Where are we going?" Varda asked, softly.
"A cozy little spot on the tenth level. They call it the Dew-drop Inn."
Varda laughed. "Cute name."
"Right. The kind of place Shelley likes. They serve those tropical, fruity drinks."
"More of a ladies bar?"
"More or less."
The two women strode out of the Club and headed for the lift. Maris mashed a couple of buttons and they were off, arriving a few seconds later. Coming out, they walked about 30 metres and came to a quiet little establishment, with its name in pink Basic script. As they entered, a Twi'lek hostess with turquoise skin came up to them.
"Good evening, ladies. So nice to see you both here. My name is Verenia, might I show you a table?"
"Sure," Maris deadpanned.
Verenia wasted little time, as she brushed up close to the Zabrak, then led the way, swiveling her hips seductively. Varda blushed a little as she saw Maris's reaction. For her part, Maris had little objection to the Twi'lek's antics. She led them to a cozy booth. As they were seated, Verenia made her move and climbed in next to Maris, then grasped the Zabrak's right arm.
"So strong …" she said softly.
"Why, thanks." Maris answered, wondering just how far this might go. She relaxed as she realized this was something of an escort bar and Verenia was just doing her job.
"Perhaps you can assist me, I'm supposed to meet a friend. She's a lovely Rodian … might she be here?"
Verenia smiled, while continuing to caress Maris's arm. "I think so … you are referring to Shelley Faizon?"
"That's the one." Maris turned towards the Twi'lek and smiled, giving her a wink. The two kissed for a quick second, but then Verenia rose.
"I'll fetch her. A pleasure meeting you, Miss … I've got a thing for pretty Zabraks."
As she walked away, Varda could barely contain herself. "Maris! Aren't you a little … you know … embarrassed?"
"Not at all. She's kind of sweet. Not my type, but … whatever."
Varda exhaled and sighed.
"Here comes Shelley," Maris then noted.
The Rodian was in a lovely yellow silk ensemble, which must have cost a fair amount, and she was already on her third cocktail. "Hello, girls!" she exclaimed loudly.
"Won't you join us?" Maris laughed.
"Sure! What are you drinking?"
"Just whisky. Neat."
"And you, Miss … Verna, was it?"
"Varda."
"My apologies," the Rodian gushed, as she pushed in next to Varda, who reluctantly slid over. Shelley then signaled and Verenia quickly returned.
"Get my friend some of your best whisky. Varda, how about you?"
"Just an ale for me."
The three women sat quietly for a few seconds, then Maris broke the silence.
"So … what was it that Jett was referring to? Some kind of tip …"
"Ah! Of course. Just a second." The Rodian pulled out her compact and was checking her look in the little mirror. She then smirked at Maris, "I must say, dear. You look ravishing tonight."
Maris laughed. "Me?"
"Well … anyway. Oh, here come the drinks. Just a sec …"
Verenia had arrived and she poured some of Varda's ale in a glass and handed it to the human. She then smiled again at Maris. "Just for you, sugar, our Sullustan whisky."
Maris chuckled. "Thaaaank you." She took a sip and nodded. "Smooth."
The Twi'lek winked at her and walked away. Maris's expression grew serious.
"Don't keep me waiting, Shel …"
"Yes, of course. OK, here goes. I just got this tip about a planet with a deep vein of some cortosis ore. The genuine article."
"Seriously?"
"Would I lie?" The Rodian laughed again.
At the mention of cortosis, Varda perked up. She then gazed into Maris's eyes and gave a short, sharp nod.
Maris drummed her fingers on the table top for a second, then stared at Shelley. "OK, I'll bite. Details?"
"Mid rim, not far from here. The Empire hasn't discovered it yet."
Maris knew that cortosis was a rather unique element, its structure making it possible to resist blaster fire, even lightsabres, it was said. She remembered hearing about this as a Jedi. Varda, of course, was even more familiar with it, due to her experience teaching various sciences. The thing was, cortosis was very difficult to find and there were very few authenticated sources. One of these was the Core world of Duro, which the Empire had full control over and they had essentially closed off production soon after the first Empire Day. Another source could be a fantastic find.
Maris finished her whiskey, then looked across the table.
"OK, Shelley, if this is on the level …"
"It is, sweety. I'll even take you there to show you."
"What's in it for you?"
"Ten thou … in advance. But you owe me nothing if I can't produce evidence."
"Just a second. Varda, can we go to the washroom?"
Shelley understood, then graciously rose so Varda could get out of the booth and follow Maris.
"I'll stay right here till you get back."
Varda whispered into Maris's ear before they reached the restroom. Maris nodded, and chuckled. When they went inside, they could see there was a small lounge to sit in, while other women were checking their makeup.
Varda spoke in a hushed tone. "I think Master Shaak will be most interested, wouldn't you say?"
"Sure. But I doubt she'll trust Shelley. Ten K is a large fee. But she will at least show us where to go."
"OK, but I'd feel better if Shaak knew what was going on."
"Agreed."
The rest of the encounter with Shelley was uneventful, and the Twi'lek hostess Verenia was sad to see Maris leave, but the Zabrak at least exchanged another quick kiss with her before she and Varda returned to the Cloudlee. Upon boarding, Maris initiated an encrypted transmission back to Felucia.
"Master … we're at The Wheel."
Shaak picked up. "Why are you there?"
"Buying spare parts for the ships. But we learned something I think you will find most interesting."
"From whom?"
"A friend. She says they've found a cortosis vein on a Mid-Rim planet, not far away from here."
Shaak ran this over in her mind for a second, then answered. "What's the catch?"
"Ten thousand Imperial."
Shaak laughed softly. "I'll approve it, but make sure she's legitimate. If she is, it's worth far more to me."
"I thought you would agree. So I'll do the deal? She says the Empire doesn't know about it yet …"
Shaak scoffed. "I doubt she can back that up, even if it's true. Be careful."
"You know I will, Master."
Dathomir, Quelii Sector, NE Outer Rim, 10 BBY, 11 months, 13 days
The story of the one-time Sith apprentice to Sheev Palpatine was tragic in many ways. Originally born on Dathomir and raised by the Night Sisters, around 32 BBY, Maul was riding high as Darth Sidious's "good right hand" and the proud Zabrak could see himself as instrumental in the plan to someday eliminate the Jedi Order and create the Galactic Empire. But this all came crashing down on Naboo. He was able to kill Jedi Master Qui-Gon Jinn, but Jinn's apprentice Obi-Wan Kenobi seemingly returned the favor, slicing off the lower half of Maul's body.
Left for dead – by Kenobi, and later, Sidious – the Zabrak willed himself to survive. Somehow, he crawled out of the pit he was in and, some years later, was able to get new legs. Eventually, he had made his way to Mandalore and caused great havoc there during the Clone War. He was directly responsible for the death of Mandalorian leader Duchess Satine Kryze and then engineered a takeover of that planet via an alliance between major Galactic organized crime syndicates that he named the Shadow Collective. For a time, this effort was successful, until a resistance movement on Mandalore arose, which was led by the late Duchess's sister Bo Katan Kryze. After some setbacks, the Resistance movement triumphed over Maul with the help of Jedi Padawan Ahsoka Tano after now Master Obi-Wan Kenobi brought in Republic forces. Together, they drove Maul from the planet as the Galactic Empire arose. Kenobi and Tano each went into hiding, as did Maul.
After a few years, Maul had established a new syndicate he named Crimson Dawn. However, because of the Empire and the obvious danger to Force-sensitives operating openly, he preferred to stay out of an active role in managing the organization and thus gave this role to Dryden Vos. But seven months earlier, Vos made a significant miscalculation when he and his subordinates attempted to swindle Maris Brood out of a quarter-million Imperial credits in a deal for some coaxium. Unaware that Brood was a Force-adept person, Vos was held in a Force-choke by the Zabrak ex-Jedi and forced to not only honor the deal but turn over additional coaxium in return for his life.
Unbeknownst to Vos, his assistant Qi'ra contacted Maul on Dathomir and informed him of what took place. As he mulled it over, it became clear to him that a change in visible leadership was necessary for the Crimson Dawn organization. He then summoned Qi'ra to meet with him on Dathomir. As her shuttle landed on the planet, she was contacted by a droid that directed her to the meeting with Maul.
"So we meet at last, Lady Qi'ra." Maul began, in a strange tone that accented certain syllables.
She was not fazed and met his gaze directly. "I am happy to be here, Maximum Leader. What may I do for you?"
He was silent for a few seconds, then answered. "It has come to my attention that perhaps new leadership is needed for the organization. I am still curious about the one you called Maris Brood and her powers and abilities."
Qi'ra took a breath, then exhaled. "I believe I ended things with her on good terms. She may call on us again for perhaps other needs."
"You say she is a Zabrak …"
"That's right. She doesn't try to disguise it. The woman has a very direct attitude about her, and seems supremely confident. If I may be so bold, what might you be considering – that she could be an ally?"
Maul glared at her for a second, then relaxed his gaze. "An ally … yes. Perhaps far better than an enemy. We need much more information. I want you to set up a meeting with her, then steer her in my direction. A fellow Zabrak, strong with the Force. Many possibilities … if she choked Vos, then she is a Dark Side Force user. She also wields a lightsabre … most interesting."
He seemed to go into an almost meditative state for about a minute, while Qi'ra waited patiently. As he appeared to come out of the trance-like state, she offered. "I can contact her at The Wheel. Sources I have say she frequents the place for various purposes. She is a heavy drinker and likes to gamble. The sabre color was a distinct pinkish red, my liege."
Maul nodded a few times, as if he had received some sort of confirmation via the Force. A possible apprentice? Revenge may now be in my grasp, Lord Vader. He turned back to Qi'ra. "Plant the seed and keep me informed. Maris Brood must become our associate. I want to cultivate a relationship with her. She will see the advantages of working as a team."
Qi'ra rose, then curtsied to him. "I will be in touch, Maximum Leader. You can count on me."
"I'm counting on that … Lady Qi'ra. Good day …"
Felucia, 10 BBY, 11 months, 11 days, 22 hours
Shaak, Varda, and Maris were sitting together in the Master's home. She wanted to discuss the possible cortosis find that Shelley Faizon had alerted Maris and Varda about on The Wheel, and what might be the best course of action.
"So … my dear," Shaak turned to her apprentice. "Tell me more about this Ms. Faizon."
"Yes, Master, I've known her for a couple of years. Her information has almost always checked out. She's a successful trader in various goods and services. We've become friends. She is a bit eccentric and quite concerned with her appearance."
Shaak chuckled. "She's a Rodian, yes?"
Maris nodded, while Varda smiled.
"The ones I've known have often been that way. But a cortosis find could be a very serious thing for us. Here's what I want you to do … reach out to her and tell her you will give her five thousand now as a show of good faith, with the other five once she shows you the goods. Varda and I will follow close behind you on the Intrepid. Once Ms. Faizon gives you the coordinates, transmit them to me and we will set it up to arrive fifteen minutes after you do."
Maris nodded, then smiled. "Got it, Master Shaak. A good strategy, as always."
The next day, Maris returned to The Wheel on the Forager. Once she landed, she placed a call to Shelley, who was still staying there, conducting other business while hoping to hear back from her Zabrak friend.
"Hey, Shelley, I'm back. Can we meet aboard my ship? I'm on landing platform 37-ZA."
Once the Rodian arrived, she and Maris exchanged quick hugs, then Maris presented her the credits and explained the terms. Shelley was fine with it, as she expected her client would be fully pleased once they got to their destination. Once Ms. Faizon was seated on the flight deck, Maris asked for the destination.
"The planet Dinzo. About one quadrant east of here …"
"Thank you." As Maris punched in the location, she then transmitted it to Shaak, who was waiting on Felucia with Varda.
Once Shaak had received it, she wasted no time and lifted off the jungle planet.
"Intrepid is quite a bit faster than Forager so we should be able to catch up to them easily. Once we're in-system, we will wait to see her when they arrive."
Varda chuckled and took her seat. Within thirty seconds, they had lifted off and soon made the jump.
Mirial City, 10 BBY, 10 months, 26 days, 20 hours
Ahsoka Tano and Barriss Offee were having dinner together in the latter's new town home in the elegant city of Mirial on the planet of the same name. Although the weather in the city was often wet and dreary, it was still a lovely place, featuring many gardens that the Mirialans had planted. The various blossoms brought color to things and the homes of the citizens were often decorated by them.
Barriss showed her good friend around her new home and she was duly impressed. The home was five levels and faced on the park near the center of town, a most desirable address. The two women's relationship continued to be cordial and bordered on affectionate, but Ahsoka had begun to feel that her friend might have her mind on other things. She wasn't sure how to approach the topic, as Barriss was always quite sensitive.
As they dined on a multi-course meal that was served by the Mirialan's new housekeeper, Ahsoka gently steered things in this direction.
"Darling, I've missed you. What do you say about maybe taking a lovely trip together?"
Barriss fluttered her eyelashes and smiled. "That would be nice. I've been awful busy lately, did you have any place in mind?"
"Not really. Maybe we could … hmm … pick something out? Someplace warm and bright."
Barriss chuckled, then reached over to her friend and caressed one of her front lekku. "I know what you mean. We Mirialans can be a dull folk, what with all this rain." She thought for a second. "Say … I've got an idea. How about a quiet little planet on the Southeastern Outer Rim? It's lovely there and rather unknown to most. Some associates of mine have been trying to interest me in making an investment there to build some vacation properties."
"Hmm." Ahsoka mumbled. "Perhaps. What's the name of the planet?"
"Scarif."
"Never heard of it. Perhaps it might be good. You could do quite well if things take off."
"That was how they pitched it to me … so, would you like to have a look?"
"Sure … how about in another couple of months? I've got some stuff I need to wrap up first."
"Great."
The two clinked their wine glasses, sipped some, then shared a kiss. Later, before they went to bed, Ahsoka said softly, "Looking forward to our getaway, love."
Barriss laughed softly. "Me too."
Dinzo, Perkell Sector, Eastern Mid-rim, 10 BBY, 11 months, 9 days
Shaak Ti's ship Intrepid arrived in the Dinzo system about one hour before Maris and Shelley did. The Master put her ship in a high orbit some 500 km above the planet's surface. Below, Dinzo seemed like an ordinary world, with patches of green among a rocky and mountainous surface. There were some expansive bodies of water, but no important settlements, let alone any cities.
"Have you ever been here before, Varda? I know I have not."
The elder ex-Jedi shook her head slowly. "It's new to me. But it doesn't seem like the Empire is here yet. I wonder why."
"We may find out soon enough."
Soon a reminder alert sounded, signaling the arrival of the Forager. Maris then turned to Shelley.
"OK, where to?"
Shelley pulled out her com, tapped a few buttons, then showed it to Maris. The Zabrak glanced at it and nodded. She then sent a signal to Shaak without the Rodian being aware of it. Soon the Forager had touched down on a rocky part of the surface. As the two of them exited the ship, Maris looked around at the mountainous landscape.
"We should be close," Shelley noted. The weather was a bit warm, but mostly agreeable, under a clear pale blue sky.
Circling the planet, Shaak received the signal. "They're down."
Varda exchanged glances with the Togruta. "Let's see what they come up with. I'm as curious as anyone. You?"
"Skeptical, but, yes, curious. I've got some questions of my own for Maris's Rodian pal."
Shelley led Maris about 100 metres away, and soon they came upon it, gleaming in the sunlight: various flecks of white material, looking similar to mica, but with quite different properties. Maris stopped and knelt to examine it. She pulled out a short knife and dislodged a chunk of it, then held it up to the light. She nodded.
"I think this is it." She turned to her Rodian friend. "I hope you don't mind, but I asked my friend Varda to join us. They should be down soon."
Shelley nodded and smiled. "I told you I had it. Now … if you don't mind …"
Maris laughed. "Not to worry. Hang on a sec." She looked up and soon the shape of a ship came into view. The Intrepid was landing.
"Nice boat," Shelley remarked, as it touched down. Soon Varda emerged, coming down the gangway, followed by Shaak.
The Togruta stepped in front and came up alongside Maris, placing an arm around her shoulders. Maris handed Shaak the specimen she had extracted from the rock. Shaak held it up and checked its properties carefully, then turned to Maris and Varda and nodded quietly. She then looked to Shelley.
"Ms. Faizon, my name is Shaak. A pleasure to meet you, my apprentice here has told me about you. This is indeed a remarkable find. Quite interesting how it's just out here in the open, far different than the veins on Duro. How did you come to learn of this?"
"The pleasure is mine, Madam Shaak. I've known about this cortosis occurrence for a few weeks. I hope you can put it to good use." Shelley chuckled.
Shaak did the same, then her expression turned serious. "Maris, please join us aboard Intrepid."
Shelley then stared at Maris, her jaw dropping slightly.
The Zabrak acknowledged her, then whispered close to her master's montrals. Shaak laughed, then turned to Shelley and pulled out her com device from her black velvet robe.
"Ten thousand, as agreed upon, then. I can send this to your account."
Shelley nodded and recorded the transaction on her device. "A pleasure doing business with you, Madam Shaak. Please let me know if I may be of further assistance …"
Shaak patted the Rodian on one shoulder with a smile, then led Varda and Maris back aboard her ship. They trooped into the shipboard lounge and sat down. Shaak then spoke.
"Maris, dig up a few more samples of this and take it back to Felucia after you drop your friend off. Then have Sanjip organize a group of acolytes to do some further exploration of this planet. Varda, I'd like you to supervise this endeavor. My aim is to recover enough cortosis such that we can conduct experiments with it, and also to gain a general idea of how much this planet may contain. At some point, the Empire is going to learn of this – let it not come from any of us."
With that, Shaak looked sternly at both Maris and Varda, then rose. "That is all. I have spoken."
Maris then rose, and quickly curtsied to her master and left the Intrepid, returning to Shelley.
Shaak quickly went to the flight deck and began preparing for the return trip to Felucia. She then asked for Shelley to come aboard.
"Ms. Faizon, you seem like an enterprising sort. How would you like to make an additional 25 thousand?"
Shelley's eyes seemed to light up. "Very much, Madam. Very much …"
Shaak chuckled. "If the Imperials do not learn of this find within the next sixty days … the money is yours. Maris will handle the arrangements. I have spoken."
"I will see to it, Master Shaak." She then bowed to the Togruta and left the ship.
Soon, the Intrepid lifted off and had made the jump. Maris was quickly able to find enough cortosis to bring back home with her, and then she and Shelley boarded Forager and were soon on their way to The Wheel.
Lianna City, 10 BBY, 10 months, 5 days, 10 hours
Valles Santhé had called a conference of a select group of Santhé-Sienar company management to her office atop the Tower. The aim was to discuss the new goals for the company going forward and announce her decisions. Ry Kyver (as Sen Kaydo) was asked to attend but as an observer only. About ten participants, with the same number looking on, were present. Once all were seated, Valles began:
"Welcome, everyone. I'm so glad everyone could make it. We've got a multitude of things to cover, so let's just get right into it … first, I am formally creating a whole new division for the foodstuffs production. I am also adding a new division for hospitality and entertainment – with many openings here for those who've always wanted to work in that industry. This effort is two-fold: first we will be looking to construct getaway properties on our nearby sector worlds, and then there is an exciting opportunity to work with Corporate Sector firms on bringing Galactic-class properties for vacation and gaming to the previously undeveloped world of Cantonica.
"Our defense systems remain a key priority and we've collaborated with the Empire on a new class of state-of-the-art interceptors, a new addition to our TIE line called the Defender. Recent tests with prototype models show these ships are truly best-in-class. And, finally, our newly created Lifestyle division that will be creating products for the population of Lianna and other Tion Sector worlds. These will include everything from fashion and basic apparel to health-related products to enhance the daily lives of billions of people. And we are also giving away free stays in our vacation properties to Santhé-Sienar team members – these include one-of-a-kind getaways to some of my personal residences on Lianna and the newer ones that are currently under construction on Pasmin and Cadinth. We will continue to remake most of our less-inhabited nearby worlds and give them the Liannese Touch."
When asked why the Company was starting to branch out into all these seemingly unrelated fields. Valles answered:
"It's because we not only can do these things, we have the resources – capital and talent – and the knowhow, to do them better than anyone else. I know you won't let me down."
Left unstated, of course, was Valles's plan to immerse herself into almost every facet of life on her home planet, and then to extend that influence to neighboring worlds – a methodic, step-by-step plan to eventually rise to rule the entire Galaxy.
As the meeting attendees filed out of her office, Valles addressed each one separately, letting them know how grateful she was for the fine work they did every day that was helping to make Santhé Corporation great. Once they were done, she asked Ry to stay behind.
"Well, my friend, what did you think?"
"Quite impressive, Valles. It seems your plans continue to come together. Was this a way of honoring your grandfather?"
"Yes … to a degree. But Grandpa was never too excited about expanding our company's core mission of weapons production. I foresee a day when there will be a lessened need for these weapons so I want us to be involved in doing good things for people, not just making newer and better ways to kill them."
Ry chuckled. "Seems like a noble cause. Do you see a day when we get into health care as well?"
Valles laughed, but only for a second. "Now that you mention it …"
She spun around and strode to her desk, checking the screens. "Always lots to do. But most of this can wait. How about joining me for an early lunch? I'm starving …"
Ry nodded. "I'd love to …"
To be continued …