Chapter 5: Into the Banking World
As Iz'phal staggered through the front door of the block and got the turbolift to the twentieth floor she hadn't expected to see the senator awake, working this late. She had wanted to slip quietly into her room without any fuss but immediately he spied her injuries and questioned her about what had happened. Reluctantly she told him and immediately he was concerned. Iz'phal flashed the huge stack of credits she'd won and offered some to him as usual, but he declined, and this time did it fiercely. Whilst he appreciated her kindness, she needed the money to help her get back on her feet, but she felt like she hadn't repaid him enough for his generosity. After he'd treated her to a meal of her favourite Kath Steak and fried up chips Iz'phal bid him goodnight before slumping to her room, wondering if she'd ever go back to that casino again after tonight. It wasn't her fault however that some men were bad losers. She pressed her tired frame against the mattress as she changed into her night garment before remembering what Alexia had said and called him quickly to say she was home. Glad to see she was safe he promised they would see each other soon before he wished her goodnight. Iz'phal just sighed, resting her head against the pillow, cheek on her forearm. Iz'phal confessed to herself she was falling for him…He was charming, was a lovely guy but she'd only known him one night. They would need to get to know each other better as friends but Iz'phal was grateful to have another friend in the galaxy that she could trust, talk to if she had a problem. She anticipated a friendship growing between them and that made her happy. The young twi'lek girl was about to drift off to sleep when she heard her holocommunicator beep, a blue receiving light showing that a call was trying to get through. Annoyed at being disturbed, just wanting to relax she flicked the acceptance key, but her mood and expression changed immediately when she saw who it was.
"Good evening, Miss Trua. I trust I'm not interrupting anything?" The important voice said, a well-groomed, finely dressed man meeting her eyes as the holocall activated. Immediately she set about changing her tone, knowing how important this call was. It could be her fresh start.
"Oh of course not Vice Chairman. To what do I owe this pleasure" Iz'phal spoke, heart almost in her throat as she realised, could this be the breakthrough she'd been waiting for.
"Well Iz'phal I have some good news for you…" The Vice Chairman spoke, Iz'phal waiting with bated breath and when he relayed the news, she had to contain herself from letting out a delighted squeal, wanting to jump around the room in happiness. "I have had a long discussion with my team, and it seems you impressed them. How would like a full-time position at our banking branch?" He asked Iz'phal not sure how to respond as she was almost trembling for getting out her answer, trying to keep a straight face.
"Sir I don't know what to say…" Iz'phal said truthfully, admitting she was a little shocked. The trials for the position had been over a month ago and Iz'phal was beginning to feel she hadn't been selected but she had been successful.
"You are a talented young lady with a lot of potential Iz'phal and can go far in the banking sector. I hope you will accept the position" The Vice Chairman stated his offer again as she forgot one major factor, heart sinking…She wasn't sixteen…She was too young. If he knew this, why was he calling her?
"Sir I would love to accept. This job would mean everything to me. But I'm fourteen. I legally cannot work for you…" Iz'phal spoke up, tears wanting to spring to the surface of her eyes, but she pushed them away immediately when she saw him smiling through the holo at her.
"Don't think we'd miss a detail out like that Miss Trua. We also had a discussion with the Hutts in charge of this sector and they have agreed to overall the legal age this once, for your talents. Is a starting date next week too soon?" The Vice Chairman asked, Iz'phal heart almost becoming weightless as she couldn't believe it. She had a job! A proper full-time job and now was going to blend into galactic society and be a normal person. This had been an emotional year and it was only going to get better. The senator had been right…Change was for the better. She thought herself worthless, with no skills, unable to get anywhere other to sell herself on the streets but now she was fierce with a blaster, a great gambler, great with numbers and now had secured herself work at one of the most prestigious banks on Coruscant. Trying not to let an excited grin escape her she kept a serious face in front of her new boss, excited to turn her resignation notice into those spice running Hutt's first thing tomorrow.
"Sir I can't thank you enough for giving me this opportunity. I won't disappoint you. I accept!" Iz'phal said, keeping her tone level-headed as he nodded, glad to hear she was enthusiastic about the position.
"Very good Miss Trua. I shall see you next Monday morning. Don't forget to bring your paperwork so we can authenticate your details. You'll fit in well with my team. Congratulations." The Vice Chairman said, glad to see how much it meant to her as he bid her goodnight before she cut the connection and punched the air when she knew she was alone, screaming in joy, leaping around the room, before jumping on the bed.
"Son of a Hutt I can't believe it! I have a proper job! Well blow me down and kiss me a Wookie! Wohoo!" Iz'phal yelled triumphantly as she continued her celebration as confused by the noise Khaled knocked on her door, wondering if she was okay.
"Iz'phal what in the name of House Organa are you doing in there?" Khaled couldn't help but utter a laugh as she sprung to floor and swung open the door, giving an excited squeal in his face.
"You never guess what! I only got me a job! I start at the bank next week. Full time job! Can you believe that. I'm gonna be a banker!" Iz'phal harped not being able to contain her excited as she flung her arms around him, knees almost wobbly from the sudden approach of good luck. He beamed at her, proud that ever since he'd rescued her she'd made a real effort to fit into society, to get herself back on her feet and to make a life for herself. "I'll be out of your hair soon sir! I'll get myself an apartment with my wages! Got some money saved up too. I've got my own job. Soon I'm gonna have my own place! I can't wait!" Iz'phal couldn't contain herself as she jumped up and down, but he calmed her down, his soothing voice making he cease her celebrations.
"Alright Iz'phal girl alright! Calm down. That's very exciting news. I'm so pleased for you. When did you hear about this?" Khaled asked seeing Iz'phal still had the holocommunicator in her hand.
"Literally just came off the holo to the Vice Chairman himself. Can you believe it?!" Iz'phal beamed as before she had any more time to celebrate, he ushered her back into her room and to her bed. "Aww can't I stay up and drink some of that Corellian Brandy? It's great stuff" Iz'phal tried her butterfly eye tactic, but it didn't work as he merely pulled the covers over her before sitting on the side of her bed.
"Not for you Iz'phal. You must have had a few drinks when you were gambling!" The senator laughed, seeing Iz'phal about to protest but he interrupted her "Besides now you're going to be working in a Coruscant high rise we can't have you dressed like you're from the lower levels. I have a day off from senate business tomorrow and I could do with some good company. I'll take you to some of Coruscant's finest tailors and get you some work clothes fitted. You'll be sure to make an impression" He offered, Iz'phal stunned at his kindness, time and time again, now she was beginning to think he was spoiling her.
"Aww sir that's too kind of ya but I can't. You have done so much for me, and I don't want you spending anymore on me. I'm sure I can find something" Iz'phal protested but he shook his head before standing, winking at her.
"Iz'phal you're coming with me tomorrow and that's all I have to say on the matter. No arguing. Now get some sleep, we've got a big day ahead of us tomorrow" The senator's heart growing another three inches as he could see how much this meant to her, Iz'phal accepting the generous offer of a new wardrobe. She was going to look like a professional businesswoman from the upper sector of Coruscant, giving the impression, she was rich and well off but a year or so working in this job and she would be in her own right. Not quite believing how much her fortunes had turned in the past year she turned over on her side to get more comfortable as she fell into the embrace of sleep.
The young twi'lek girl beamed happily as she clutched three bags in her hands containing three perfect outfits for her new work. She protested all the way through it, determined to buy him something but he said it was out of the question as she was measured head to toe, as they tailored the clothing to fit her. Iz'phal felt she was being pampered and didn't want the day to end. Both the senator and the twi'lek weary from walking the upper sector of Coruscant all day he steered them into a store that did sweet treats, Iz'phal choosing anything that had a name twi'lek in it, remembering Alexia's words of trying to embrace her culture. She had chosen various flavours of different fruits which somehow even though she didn't remember much of it reminded her of home and it tugged at her heart slightly as the memory panged to the surface. Pushing it away she ate the cold, pulped up fruits as they talked, Iz'phal admitting it was the most delicious thing she'd ever tasted.
"Son of a wompa this is delicious! What is this stuff?" Iz'phal asked, wishing her mouth and the spoon was bigger.
"It's what we Coruscanti call Mulsh and it is most welcoming in the summer months. I must admit you have good taste, the twi'lek fruits are my favourite as well" the senator smiled warmly down at her as they parked themselves on a bench from where they could see the stately monuments and the avenue of the core founders below.
"Do you know much about Ryloth?" Iz'phal wondered, eyes sparking a curious expression as she paused her eating to listen intently. He wondered why she'd asked the question but given her life recently realised she hadn't lived there long enough to witness its beauty.
"Only when I have visited for small state visits, but I have been to your world. You should go home someday Iz'phal. I know how much the past hurts you but think of how grateful your family would be if you saw them again. Just think about it" the senator almost pleaded with her as Iz'phal shook her head, lowering her eyes to gaze at her lap, pressing her hands into the bench just trying to get the words out, lekku hanging over her face.
"Of course, I want to go home. I have wanted to for ages, but I can't face my family after what I've done. Not yet…" Iz'phal let out a heavy breath as she scooped up the last of the berry mulsh and wiped her mouth. "I will one day when I can be strong enough to face them but I'm tired of hurting them. If I told them now, they'd never forgive me. Please understand sir. They would disown me and as much as I want to go home I can't…I will but not now. Once I have built my life and made new friends then I will see them again." Iz'phal made a vow to herself when she'd left the escort life behind that she would not see her family again until she was a woman in society that they could be proud of. They would speak her name with their friends and say how much she meant to them. She longed for that day, but she knew that was some ways ahead. The senator examined her for a moment before he crossed his legs, hands folded in his lap.
"Of course, Iz'phal I understand. You have done so much already and what you have achieved is remarkable. I'm proud of you Iz'phal and if you ever need my company or help again, I'll be there" Khaled said, just wanting her to know he would always be there, as a companion for her as she beamed at him, never thanking him enough for everything he'd done, from that cold rainy night he'd saved her to now.
"Thank you, sir. That means a lot…Really…" Iz'phal's heart becoming warm and fuzzy as before he got emotional, he stood to his feet and she followed suit, skipping by his side, bags in hand. "Where we going now?" She asked, almost dancing on her tip toes down the street as he strode behind her, glad to see how happy she was.
"I thought we might play a friendly game of Sabacc. All this exploring has tired me out" the senator said, bringing up her favourite game as a wide smile split on her face, showing her teeth.
"A friendly game huh?" Iz'phal pondered, before turning to face him, eyes showing that daring spark. "I accept. But just because it's friendly doesn't mean to say I'm gonna take it easy on ya" Iz'phal laughed as the two made their way back to Khaled's apartment after a day of sightseeing and shopping to wind down for the evening as the senator admitted it had been pleasant to walk through Coruscant's upper districts and not have to think about politics and rules. If he won one hand against her, he would call it a victory.
Feeling slightly nervous Iz'phal thought how she was going to great her new work colleagues as the turbo lift shot up to the top floor of one of Coruscant's most famous spires, the Khaldani Spire. As wellbeing the home of one of Coruscant's well renowned banks it was also a luscious apartment block for those who had the money to buy a room. Iz'phal just stared in wonder at the view from the lift as she travelled higher and higher, the constant stream of air traffic whizzing all around her, buildings as tall as the one she was in now rising to greet her on her accent. It was a truly breath-taking sight to see the capital from his height as she just took it all in. Khaled had wished her the best of luck and wanted to her all about her first day when she got home. She was dressed for her first day, being only fourteen years old just trying to keep herself together as she wore an elegant white blouse with a black waistcoat wrapped around the front of her bust, buttoned up neatly. Her black leggings were tucked into short boots and her lekku as always were tied behind her head. Blowing out her breath and straightening the creases in her shirt she gave herself a pep talk for a few seconds before stepping out of the lift to meet her new boss. She was on time, always a good start for a new employee in the banking sector as the higher up couldn't stand their workers being late or the business running behind schedule. As if on que the Vice Chairman of the banking clan himself Temax strode towards her, shaking her warmly by the hand as she reciprocated. He was a Munn, the native species from the world of Muunilinst and judging by the power in his stance was not to be messed with. A long crimson and silver coat flared at the shoulders before spreading down to his feet, wearing an elaborately woven silver and flame coloured tunic beneath it, black eyes squinting at her, trying to smile. His people didn't smile often but when a Munn was happy, you'd know about it, especially when money was concerned. The entirety of the banking clan was made up of Munns and in her time in the sector Iz'phal would get to meet all of them. She engaged him in eye contact as he addressed her smiling broadly.
"Welcome Miss Trua, my you do scrub up well" Temax said, seeing she had tried to suit herself to her new role and that pleased him.
"Thank you, sir. I shall make the most of this opportunity" Iz'phal expressed how grateful she was as after talking about her journey and the weather he handed her, her staff ID card which looked very professional and briefed her on the day's events.
"You've joined us in the middle of a busy time Iz'phal" the munn said, keeping her abreast of the situation, leading her to meet her work team. Her first proper work team…Perhaps I can make friends with all of them…Iz'phal hoped as he ran through the formalities for her training. "I was impressed by your skills with numbers. You passed the test with flying colours. You shall be in the transactional department, but this week is all about training and fitting in. As we say in the banking world: Money goes in and out every day, but the industry never rests!" Temax laughed light-heartedly seeing Iz'phal adopt a confused expression before she began her training. She was willing to learn and take in every new experience. It was going to be a real change!
3 Weeks Later
Iz'phal had almost completed her first month in her new post and she was loving every moment of it. She made assumptions that people who worked with money were just like Hutts, big headed and greedy but they were nothing like that. A proper job was the best thing to ever happen to her. She now had friends, a steady income and a place to call home every day. After only her second week Iz'phal had been promoted to team co-ordinator as she drifted up to her floor, getting into the routine, a flask of Corellian caffeine in her hand as she clocked in, swiped up her black folder from the head desk as the usual greetings met her ears, replying in kind.
"Morning Iz!"
"Did you catch the podraces last night?"
"Good to see you Izzy."
"Izzy doll I need those processed cheques now!"
"Good morning to you all too!" Iz'phal laughed, not being shy of admitting how much she loved her team. It was only a month and already they were beginning to feel like family, Iz'phal obviously knowing they were all friends as they spent a lot of time together. She got on well with everyone and they had a good laugh from time to time. She slumped at her desk, ID tag around her neck to find a wodge of cheques slapped on her desk in a pale brown envelope as she swung her chair to face the female cathar behind her who had made the request. "Processed cheques coming your way Sabine, glad processing got their job done otherwise we wouldn't be seeing these" Iz'phal fretted slightly as the cathar called Sabine beamed at her.
"Could you imagine if we didn't meet our deadline. Man, I've seen Temax mad but when a cheque isn't processed on time, clear the building!" A green skinned twi'lek Iz'phal called Snix enacted an impression from over his monitor as Sabine and Iz'phal snorted with laughter.
"Guys shut up we could get in real trouble. Goddamn Temax is always around when you don't need him!" The third member of her team a human male named Toran, Iz'phal rarely hearing him speak but he provided much needed laughter.
"Oh, big ol' Temax. He's quite nice once you get to know him" Sabine sighed, rolling her eyes to the ceiling, Iz'phal tapping furiously away on her monitor, answering to all her correspondence and Snix scolded her, grinning widely.
"Oh, so you and the boss are quite close then I guess?" Snix giggled, throwing a wink at Iz'phal as Sabine just told him to shut up, grooming her feline like ears before glaring at the processed cheques and scowling.
"Would you believe it! Those sons of Hutts have left the clearance stamps off this! I'm going to processing right now!" Sabine scolded as she swung herself from her high-backed chair and was about to take the lift when it opened and a handsome blue skinned twi'lek stepped onto their floor, grinning widely.
"Guess what Sabine sweetheart, I got that stamp for those cheques you wanted!" The blue skinned twi'lek male beamed at her as she scowled, snatching the stamp from him and began to verify the money before handing the slips to Iz'phal.
"Yeah, will you and your team do a better job next time. You could've got me in real trouble!" Sabine glowered at him as she expected him to head back to work but he stood there and folded his arms, Iz'phal still not realising who had graced them with his presence as she was too busy answering messages and taking calls. "And why are you still here?" She shot back, yellow eyes filled with interest.
"Yeah what's the big idea Alex!" Snix said suspiciously as the blue twi'lek just folded his arms across his chest, smiling widely.
"Well what can I say…Temax has put me on your team now. I'm moving up in the galaxy. Transactions for me from now on. Now give me a desk and hand me over to where the money's at!" Alexia laughed as Snix and several other members of the team rolled their eyes before sniggering.
"Listen to him will ya…Sabine give him a job before he does my head in!" Snix growled before swinging back to his desk and taking a call.
"Hey Sabine, I missed you sweetheart. I was beginning to think you missed working with me" Alexia through a wink at her as Sabine just shoved a folder in his chest giving him the go away gesture with her hands.
"You wish Alex and besides…" Sabine scowled finding it hard not to smile in front of her friend. "You're not my type!" Alexia rolled his eyes, replying in a bold fashion.
"Does a certain someone want to have a drink after work and talk about it" Alexia suggested but Sabine just shoved him in the chest playfully laughing.
"Get out of my face will ya and do one thing you're good at! You're job!" Sabine snorted with glee as over the past few moments Iz'phal couldn't believe her eyes. She'd looked up from her work and almost dropped her drink when she'd heard that familiar voice but thought it was someone else that looked like him. She must be dreaming? Alexia, the twi'lek she'd met and become friends with…He was on her team…She was working with him. She got up gingerly from her desk and strode over to where he was making calculations, preparing a folder of bank notes to be filed for Snix as she tapped him on the shoulder, not sure on how to get his attention.
"Urgh not now Sabine girl I've got a shed load to do!" Alexia snapped, convinced it was that wiry cathar trying to wind him up but when he saw the beautiful light blue skinned twi'lek girl behind him his mouth nearly fell open, just standing there not sure how-to reaction.
"Iz'phal!" Alexia gasped, stunned at her sudden appearance before he wrapped her in a tight hug completely forgetting what he was doing. "Girl what are you doing here?! It's so good to see you!" He beamed, rocking her from side to side until he relinquished the embrace just gazing at her.
"Don't you know…I work here now. I co-ordinate transactions. Got the post a few weeks back" Iz'phal said not believing what was happening as he stepped back from her to give her some space, heart hammering against his chest.
"You've been here for nearly a month! What a coincidence. Why didn't you come talk to me?!" Alexia gawped at her, still not over the shock of her and him being in the same sector in the same building and now being on the same team.
"I had no idea you worked here! This is amazing. We're gonna have such fun!" Iz'phal smiled warmly, clapping her hands together, large brown eyes full of excitement. "And Alex…That's a new one…" Iz'phal laughed at Sabine's nickname for him earlier as she rolled her eyes the next time he addressed her by her full name. "I think since we're gonna be work buddies now and we're gonna be seeing a lot of each other just call me Iz or Izzy. That's what everyone else calls me round here. It's kinda catchy" She grinned, seeing him regain his composure as to his relief everyone was still working around him and hadn't been listening in on his conversation. "So, transactions hey? Why they move you up here?" Iz'phal asked curiously, still not believing her luck as he shrugged his shoulders.
"Heard you guys need some more support up here besides if I stayed any longer in processing I have ended up being Hutt slime on the floor. My brain is dry from working in that section. I need a change of scenery" Alexia explained, Iz'phal seeing he was in his work attire and was more formal looking, his face and good looks still the same from that night, the night they'd first met.
"Anything to do with Sabine?" Iz'phal jibed sweetly, making a kissing sound and batting her eyes at him as Alexia snorted, waving his hand in front of his face shaking his head.
"Are you out of your brain Iz!? True she's a nice girl but we just have a laugh. It's nothing serious!" Alexia protested as it was true, he and the cathar were just close friends but Iz'phal teased him, making more kissing sounds. "It's not like that Iz. Come on why don't you believe me?" Alexia sighed as she turned on her heel and walked back towards her desk, but he caught her by the arm before she could walk fully away from him. "Iz I'm sorry I just feel like I barely know you and we're working together now. Fancy a drink after work? Nothing too forward but just feel like a hardly know you. After all we're partners now right?" He winked at her as Iz'phal's heart fluttered in her chest, a pink tinge taking over her cheeks. Her silence got him worried as if he'd put her off, so he apologised. "Unless you have plans…I'm sorry…" he muttered before closing his eyes and slapping his forehead cursing under his breath…You hardly know her and your inviting her out! She won't say yes! What are you doing? He scolded himself, but she flashed a smile at him, cheeks flushed with colour.
"Alexi that's so sweet. I'd love to. Here's to the start of a great friendship!" Iz'phal beamed as his eyes opened wide, not sure if he'd heard right.
"Wait what did you say?" Alexia stuttered slightly just to be sure he'd heard right but the expression on her face confirmed her answer.
"I'd love to. Thanks for the offer. See you after closing hours then. Meet you in the lobby" Iz'phal through a wink his way, giving him a friendly hug.
"You're on Iz. I'm looking forward to it. I know a good place" he smiled at her as the dark blue skinned twi'lek went back to work Iz'phal slumping at her desk, heart in her mouth, still in shock. She couldn't believe they were now working together. Was this a dream? This was just too perfect. Her team were the greatest people she could hope to meet and just as she thought it couldn't get any better Alexia stepped through the door. Now they were on the same team she had to get to know him. They were going to become good friends and she wouldn't have it any other way. She embedded herself in the days work, hoping the hours would fly by.
Fifteen minutes before her shift ended and it was dragging, feeling her concentration beginning to slip as she kept checking the time every few seconds. Her holo beeped as she got a visual message, slipping it out of her pocket to read a message from Alexia, a smile crossing her face.
Finished earlier than expected. Don't worry about rushing, I'll wait for you.
See you soon Iz
Alexia
Iz'phal beamed happily as she pocketed the device and stared at her screen before Sabine opposite her rose from her chair grabbing her coat, bidding her goodbye as she clocked off.
"Goodnight guys. Iz don't stay here all night. I'm sure you have an exciting life outside of work" Sabine said, not wanting her friend to overexert herself as Iz'phal nodded bidding the cathar goodbye as Iz'phal put forward a question before she left hoping on the odd chance that she would be free.
"We should meet up sometime after work. I know this really great bar in the upper district" Iz'phal suggested as Sabine flung her coat over her shoulders, eyes smiling at the invitation.
"I'd love that for sure Iz. Say the time and place!" Sabine said bidding her work colleagues goodnight as she stepped into the turbolift, Iz'phal seeing the time read 17:59 beginning to pack her stuff away and close her desk until the morning.
"Have a good night Iz'phal. You keep that Alex in check would ya" Snix grinned at her as she flicked her light blue lekku over her shoulders smiling broadly, picking up her black folder with some filing to take home.
"I'll be sure to. Night Snix" Iz'phal smiled warmly at him before he rolled his eyes cheerily wanting to clock off himself but needed to stay overtime to process more payments. As she stepped into the turbolift she was determined to have a good night with a guy who obviously wanted to be her friend. He seemed so kind, so genuine and she wanted to get to know him better, now they were going to be work partners. Checking herself in the mirror while the lift was descending, combing her lekku back from her face she was taken aback by Coruscant at night, how beautiful the city looked from above, various lights twinkling from the buildings so the landscape was like a sea of stars. She applied some red shine to her lips before the doors of the elevator opened as she smiled when she saw the blue skinned twi'lek arms folded waiting for her.
"Heya, ready to go?" Iz'phal asked as he turned to face her, almost tranced by the radiance of her face, wanting to remark on how beautiful she was but though that forward knowing he'd only known her for two days. Perhaps in the future as their friendship developed he would let know but for the time being he was just happy to have another person in the galaxy he could spend time with.
"Sure, am Iz, you can choose if you fancy. I'm sure you know some pretty swell places" Alexia suggested, as both twi'lek's strode side by side engaging in conversation, both turning in their ID cards as they exited the building, Alexia immediately dropping the formal front he put on in his job and just wanted to have a good time.
"I'll surprise ya" Iz'phal grinned, knowing her way around the upper levels of Coruscant now having lived here for the best part of a year. "So how long you been working for Mr Temax? He sure comes across as a nice guy to work for" Iz'phal guessed spying Alexia roll his eyes, trying to supress a laugh.
"I'll let you into a secret about Mr Temax" Alexia lowered his voice as if he didn't want to be heard, striding by her side before he loosed a laugh, realising she was still the new girl and didn't know much of the banking world. He supposed he'd have to teach her. "He seems a pleasant kind of guy on the surface but if you get on his bad side…Not fun!" He threw a wink her way as she wanted to press the matter further wanting to find out more about her boss as he'd been nothing but nice to her since her first shift before Alexia put a question to her. She was slightly surprised by the nature of his words, but they weren't in the work environment anymore and besides he only wanted to be her friend. "So how old are you really Iz?" he asked, light blue eyes gazing at her trying to figure it out for himself as they took a left into a bustling street, Iz'phal knowing where she was taking them.
"You got a clever mind…You're good with numbers…Guess!" Iz'phal beamed, quirking a smirk his way as he examined her face, the make-up probably making her look other than she was, so he took that into account, but all things considered she was very young.
"Twenty…" Alexia guessed initially seeing Iz'phal flash a rather offended stare his way as he deduced quickly he was wrong, trying to think again. "Eighteen, no really sixteen?" He thought that was right, but she merely shrugged her shoulders, shook her head, lekku swaying by her hips as she made the gesture with her hands that suggested lower. "You're kidding girl…Okay…Fourteen…" Alexia said almost in shock as she nodded giving him the thumbs up.
"Took you long enough!" she loosed a laugh before leading them through the door to her favourite place. A bustling bar on the upper levels called "X" as he just gazed at her, wondering how she'd managed to swing the job considering she was under the legal age to work in the sector.
"Okay wait a minute! You have to tell me about this! First off you look older…I'm impressed. Have already have a job in the sector before your sixteen. You're going places!" Iz'phal gushed at the complement as she quickly grabbed them a comfy looking booth in the corner, wanting to get a seat before all the Corusanti finished work and it got busy. The hustle and bustle of place brought back warm memories when the senator had showed her around the nightlife and despite her being underage her flirting tactics always got her where she wanted and the help of a fake ID. Alexia told her to surprise him with whatever drink she chose as she ordered her usual twice before she made her way over to the booth where he was sitting, Iz'phal getting some wolf whistles from the group of republic officers perched at the bar as sometimes she admitted she still got a thrill from attracting the attention of men but she never wanted to go back there: Not after where she was now.
"You always get that kind of reaction Iz? Not that I can blame them" he teased her as again her cheeks went red from the compliment, but he still didn't approve of their behaviour. "They should back off. Girls aren't pretty objects just to be stared at you know" Alexia made his point, taking a sip of his drink before glowering at the officers who had hailed her.
"Oh, ignore them Al it's fine…I'm used to it…Mind if I call you Al, if not I'll think of something else" Iz'phal asked as he nodded, a smile lighting up his face.
"Course Iz. That's what Sabine calls me, so I get it all the time…Besides my full name is a bit of a mouth full" he flashed a grin seeing her nod from across the table as she took another draught through her straw.
"So, what you think…Good right?" Iz'phal prompted, gesturing to the drink in her hand as he smiled again, just gazing at the modern yet vibrant decorations and bar area and knew she had good taste.
"Best place I been in a while Iz, you sure got some style. Still can't believe you're fourteen though. You're going places in the galaxy already, bantha hide knows what you'll be like when you get to eighteen. You'll be chairman of the banking clan for sure" Alexia said, feeling pleased for her and what she achieved so far as he adopted a serious expression, resting his chin on a closed fist wanting to know more about her. "So, tell me Iz. You must've left Ryloth pretty young. What have you been up to since you left home?" Alexia asked, Iz'phal's heart sunk realising what this meant. If she told him the truth he would find out what she really had been up to, how she'd been making her money and she didn't want him to walk out on her or never speak to her again. However, she couldn't face lying to a guy that was possibly going to be a great friend. She just implored with him as if she wanted his understanding, but he already understood, the twi'lek male knowing what a lot of the women of his species went through and it made him sick to his stomach to think his people were being sold, traded, used…It needed to be stopped, all women taken off the streets.
"Well…It's been kinda hard you know…Leaving home, moving away from my family. But I did it for them Al honest. I never really knew what I was doing until I…" She paused, the memory of Skavak poisoning her and beating her up coming to the surface as she screwed her eyes shut shaking her head. Alexia instantly guessed by her expression she didn't want to talk about it and put a sympathising hand on her arm before she took a deep breath and continued, looking into his eyes all the while. "I wanted to make money for them. My family had nothing. We were scraping for food, resources, anything…So I told my parents I worked at a cantina and I was staying with a friend…But what I was really doing…Goddamn I'll never forgive myself!" Iz'phal scolded more to herself than to him as he knew that was difficult for her wanting to tell her to stop if it became too difficult, but she continued just wanting someone else to know, someone she could spill her heart to. She let it out and just bit her tongue waiting for his reaction. "I was an escort okay! I was selling my body for money. I'm sorry if that's not what you wanted to hear but it's the truth. And I hated it, every moment of it. What I forced myself to do…The people I dealt with…It was horrible and I'm never going back…" Iz'phal again shut her eyes just waiting for him to stand up and leave her on her own but he still sat opposite her, just gauging her eye contact, realising what a step she'd made in turning her life around and that was all that mattered. "Wait…You're not mad…Not even a little…I though that…" Iz'phal began but he cut her off, downing his drink, holding her gaze with sympathy.
"Look Iz, I barely know you, or what you went through but for you to tell me that when we've really just met is the bravest thing you could've done. I mean look where you are now. You have all of us, you have friends. I know Sabine and Snix care a lot about you and this job will stand you in good stead. Iz you're gonna do great I know you are and you never have to go back there or think about it again…Sorry to make you bring that up…Are you okay?" Alexia asked in concern as she nodded trying to push the tears away and thankful her resolve made that possible.
"Yeah don't worry about me Al…I just get these flashbacks sometimes to who I once was you know, and it hurts but hey that's enough of that…Another drink?" Iz'phal smiled as seeing the enthusiasm in his facial expression she nodded but before she could get to feet he put a hand on her arm, offering this time.
"Iz you got the last one. What you having?" Alexia offered as Iz'phal beamed happily having another usual as he strode to the bar, not worried about being on her own anymore. She was a strong girl and needed to be strong on her own. She was glad those officers weren't interested in her anymore as the bar began to get busier, the crowds bustling through the door as she was about to go search for him as he'd been gone a while when her heart froze in her mouth. It all came back in that one moment, the past, that night, the whispered lies, the sickness…Everything. She wanted to run away and cry, but she wasn't that little girl anymore. True she was only a year older but had experience with weapons, a streetwise mind and she could fight. She was not without support anymore. She had friends and people who cared for her and nothing would upset her, especially when she was out with a work friend but still his presence unsettled her. Her fingers itched for her blaster as she spied his face in the crowd as he immediately went straight for a girl who he found attractive and began to try his seductive tactics. Red rage boiled inside her as the girl in his hold was fooling for it. Iz'phal recognised his annoyingly attractive face anywhere. Skavak was on Coruscant, would recognise her if he saw her but she wanted to save that poor girl before anything happened, just like it had happened to her. She tried to push the image of him being in the same room as her away as Alexia got his way through the crowd with two drinks in his hand and slumped opposite her, apologising for the time he'd been, light blue eyes containing an irritated expression.
"Sorry bout' that Iz. It's suddenly come alive in here. What's up?" Alexia asked curious about why she was looking over his shoulder as she shook her head immediately and engaged him in conversation giving him her full attention, large brown eyes gazing at him, face flushed with colour.
"Oh, don't worry Al, just thought I saw someone I knew…Anyways tell me all about you…Family, friends…A girlfriend…?" Iz'phal laughed as the two fell into a long discussion about Alexia's past and pushed the notion of a girl in his life away. She jokingly said Sabine but judging by the serious expression in his eyes whenever she brought it up he wasn't seeing anyone. After at least an hour and half of the twi'leks talking about the banking sector, Ryloth and twi'lek myths and their favourite galactic sports Alexia offered to walk her home as she nodded, admitting she'd had a great time with an awesome guy and hoped it was the first of many invitations. They were going to become great friends…She was sure of that. Someone she could always trust to be there for her.
"I've had such a great time. Thanks for the invite Al. It's been fun! So, I guess that makes us friends, right?" Iz'phal quirked an eyebrow at him as he ruffled her lekku and pulled her into an embrace, Iz'phal again blushing, as being in the arms of handsome man who was genuine, who gave her attention made her swoon, but this was the right kind of attention and she welcomed and trusted it.
"Course we are Iz. We gotta work together and besides you're pretty awesome. I've never seen a meaner Sabacc player in all my life. You gotta teach me some of your moves!" Alexia laughed, eyes dancing with a challenging nature still holding her as she nodded, hoping he had as much interest in the game as she did. Still the presence of Skavak was bothering her and it didn't take long for Alexia to realise that something wasn't right as he was protective of her, knowing some sleaze ball of a man might try to take advantage of Iz'phal if he left her side but she told him not to worry as they made their way from the bar. His arm draped over her neck she wanted to say something but that poisonous presence in the room was clouding her mind. She prayed he wouldn't speak but his voice came, that seductive drawl that rattled in her head, made her blood freeze as she bunched her hands into fists.
"Would you believe what the Akk Dog dragged in!? Izzy darlin' I was worried to think you forgot all about me" Skavak shot cold from behind her as wanting to gouge his eyes out then and there and get revenge on him for the hell he'd put her through she spun on her heel, eyes clouded over in hatred. "Never been able to get over our little encounter, you did a good job girl I'll give you that…" That set her off, gritting her teeth inside her mouth as she leapt at the pirate, wanting to take his eyes out with her nails.
"You take one step closer to me and I'll kill you, you piece of Hutt slime! I'm gonna kill you! You piece of filth! I hate you. Son of a Nikto I hate you!" Iz'phal yelled as Alexia realised what she meant and tried to hold her back as she desperately struggled against his arms that were preventing her from going for the pirate's throat. The male twi'lek's strength was enough to stop her, but she resisted, trying wildly to throw his arms aside to get at him.
"Izzy girl stop! Please calm down! Just ignore him. He's nothing. Let's get out of here…" he pleaded her, but she still tried to break through his hold on her, shooting Skavak a stare which held more venom than a vile of arsenic. Alexia wanted to get her out of here, only for her safety. He didn't know the pirate, but it was enough to know from her reaction that he was a dangerous womp rat that couldn't be trusted. "Come on girl he's not worth it" Alexia tried to calm her down before shooting a venomous glare at Skavak, not knowing the man but disliked him already, trying to guess how she knew him but didn't know what had happened between them, what he had done to her.
"Al use your brains! This piece of filth tried to kill me! You attacked me and drugged me and don't think I'll let you forget it. You'll pay for what you did to me! You disgust me! I'm gonna kill you just you wait!" Iz'phal cursed him to hell as he just laughed at her being held back by a similar looking twi'lek with dark blue skin.
"I'd love to see you try sweetheart. However, I don't think your partner's going to let you. Seems like I was right about you…You haven't changed one-bit Iz. How much you paying this one, coz if you want my advice she should give you a discount, she was not what I expected in the bedroom department but hey I'm only helping you out. I was overcharged by some considerable amount. You're everything you look Izzy, but perhaps you should lower your price the next time someone wants a cheap fling…" Skavak shot the hurtful remark at them both, spite dripping from his tone as affronted at someone thinking he picked up women from the street he stormed up to him, leaving a seething Iz'phal in the centre of the room, people all around her as her head began to ring, the images coming back stronger as she just clutched at her head. Before Iz'phal could stop him, Alexia made his move and his intention clear. She almost gushed that he was standing up for her but the fact her past had come to find her here, when she thought she'd turned her life around made her queasy.
"What was that?!" Alexia barked fiercely as he stormed up to the fair faced pirate, grabbing him by the scruff of the neck. "Repeat what you just said to me!" He snarled, Skavak trying to get free but Alexia wasn't loosening his grip. He'd never had anyone accuse him of using women, particularly his kind, that was the last thing he would do and the way he'd spoken about her made his blood boil over. When nothing came out of the pirate's mouth he snorted in derision, eyes narrowing in distain, the anger flaring up inside him even higher. "You'll say that to a young girl but don't have the guts to say it to a man do you?!" Alexia threatened as Iz'phal now just wanting to leave this place rushed up to him and told them both to stop but the male twi'lek was so riled by anger he wasn't going to comply until he taught the pirate a lesson. "I'll have you know Iz'phal had changed a whole bunch since you met her. She's a bantha stretch ahead of you and you know it. I know what men like you do…You use women for your own gains just like you used her. You ever come near her again it won't be pretty. I'm here for her now so back off!" Alexia snapped as he pushed him away not wanting to waste his anger anymore as he just wrapped an arm around her shaking shoulders, escorting her from the bar but the painful images and his crooning voice still hurt her, way more than she'd thought it would.
"Looks like you got yourself a friend to protect you Iz. I still think the same of you. You're nothing sweetheart and will always be nothing. Enjoy your life Iz as it sure won't last long. Don't think I'll treat you nice if I see you again!" Skavak retaliated now the threat as gone as not even wanting to look back or waste his energy on him he escorted her outside, not a word said between them as he walked her home, a strong arm wrapped around her shoulders as they said nothing throughout the journey. She was so shaken by the sudden appearance of her past in what she thought was her new life that she was shocked into silence before they reached the front door of Khaled's apartment block before it all hit home, his words, that voice, everything about him and the way she used to live her life making her want to be sick as she burst into tears burying her face in his chest, shoulders shaking from the weight of her sobs. Slightly taken aback by her sudden outburst he cradled her in his arms, just letting her have his shoulder to cry on. After all she was his friend and that's what he was here for. He dreaded to think what that monster would have done to her if she'd been on her own with him but Iz'phal couldn't get that image out of her head. She thought he was gone…Long gone but instead he was on Coruscant and sensed he would come looking for her, would seek her out and do horrible things to her until he killed her, and this time make sure she stayed dead. Her face in the dark warmth of his chest she wanted to banish the frightful, hurtful images away but she couldn't not after seeing his face again, that face that had lulled her in before…She cut the thought off completely as his soothing voice tried to bring her back to the present, noticing she was far away from him but that was little consolation as she felt like she'd ruined the evening and brought him into her personal battles and that was the last thing she wanted. Iz'phal just trembled in his arms, a frightened girl, a world away from what she thought she was. She just needed to get over this and get back on her feet, but it would be difficult, especially knowing he was on the same world she was. Feeling a comforting hand stroke up and down her back she lost herself in the kind nature of his hold and tried to think of happy thoughts, the senator, Sabacc, her job, her friends but it didn't work. She was still in shock.
"I'm sorry…I didn't mean to drag you into it. He tried to kill me, and I'll never forgive him. He made my life a living hell. He poisoned me goddamnit! I would be dead if Khaled hadn't saved me…I'm just angry. I wanted to make him pay…You know…" Iz'phal's voice was a sad moan as her breath hitched in her lungs, frightened for Skavak now knowing she was on Coruscant and coming to find her.
"Izzy girl don't blame yourself. It was my fault if anything. I shouldn't have got involved but I won't have anyone speaking to you like that. He's scum Iz, the lowest of the low. Forget about him Iz. You're more than he could ever be. He's just jealous and trust me I know that when I see it. He's trying to bring you down to his level…You have all of us Iz, we'll always be here for you" Alexia tried to gage her eye contact, but she refused to look up at him, just feeling sorry for ruining the evening with the past that had come back to haunt her.
"Always?" Iz'phal questioned, managing to find the courage to look up and saw his bright blue eyes swimming with kindness down at her.
"You know it Iz! I had a great evening and besides he's just mad that all the girls he tried to pull in that place weren't half as beautiful as you" Alexia paid the complement as he meant it, stroking a soft hand behind her lekku as she lowered her head not wanting him to see the blush that came to her cheeks.
"Oh, Al cut it out! It's nice that you think so. Minus the incident I had a lovely night. Thanks for getting me out of there" Iz'phal said, relieved to be home as a silence lingered between them before he pecked her on the forehead, glad to know she was home safe.
"Anytime you want to talk Izzy I'll be here. Call me whenever you like. I better be getting home Iz, it's late and you look tired" Alexia said, as he released her smiling broadly.
"Don't forget to get some rest yourself. See you in the morning" Iz'phal bid her friend goodbye as he made sure he was safely in the apartment before walking his own way home. If she hadn't been at side, he would've had no qualms about flooring that pirate scum. No one used women in front of him and went away unpunished. It hurt him to think she had been used and treated badly but now her life was different, good people and her friends were around her and it was going to be different. Trying to banish the image of her suffering out of his mind, just relieved she was home safe he pulled his coat around him, making his way to the upper levels, thinking of the quickest route home…He hoped his sister had a late-night snack ready.