Ask Nar Shaddaa Best of Interests

[Kai]

THEME​

Suits and formal attire were not comfortable. At least not for Malakai Beck. The party he was attending was not strictly formal but the Grysk felt that it was probably in his best interest to dress in something other than the usual baggy and simple clothing he normally wore. A jacket with a mantle of black feathers and pressed pants was the outfit for the night. A small stun blaster in his jacket was all he had on him in terms of weaponry but he wondered if that was going to get confiscated.

He had come to pick up Nashyr after their last meeting. Malakai's mind pondering how best to go about the social gathering. It was going to be on a modified luxury sail barge. The cover Legionnaire was not entirely sure who would be there but he knew people with deep pockets would be attending. So he had to at least look worth their time even if he did not like it.

Malakai's plus one was bound to arrive at some point. The long nights of Nar Shaddaa meant the party would be going for awhile and he was in no rush. Any other vessel other than the designated boarding skiffs were not allowed to dock with the pleasure barge. So for this event they would wait to be chauffered. Others had already passed him and went. For now he stood at a landing platformed waiting for the gilded skiff to come back around. The host of the party was some business mogul's son and while his credits were plentiful. The sail barge hung in the distance over one of the sports arenas. Even from here Kai could hear the chears of whatever was happening in the games below. Maybe I'll get me one of those. The Grysk thought as he brought out his third cigara of the evening.

@Killa Ree

 

[Nashyr Ris]

They were higher up on the levels than Nashyr Ris had ever been. She had spent hours getting prepared for this event, and even though she knew she had looks dressed to kill, she knew this social circle was not even close to the levels she resided in. She kept it simple; to offset the russet and cream of her natural colors, the silver glittering in the light. The deep plunge in both front and back highlighted smooth curves, while the thin sequined shawl she wore accented the line of her shoulders.

She wasn't going to give them the benefit of the doubt. She strode her date's way... and gave her best sultry smile, head cocking at him slightly.

"Don't you scrub up well, Malakai," she teased, tapping a nail to her lip. She glanced up towards the barge... and squared her shoulders. Business... or pleasure. The night was young enough yet.

Spoiler: outfit

Link

 

[Kai]

His mind had zoned out for a moment. His head turned as he heard the foot steps of what he could already tell were fancy shoes. His mouth opened and but he managed to catch his cigara before it hit the ground. "Well damn" She complimented him and he realized he had an expression of pleasant surprise. "I mean...you know it."

The man turned his body towards the skiff that was slowing down. One couple got off, both clearly lightweights and headed to continue their prematurely plastered night elsewhere. But at least they looked classy.

There was one other couple, both Zabraks as well as an elderly Dug who grunted every other step for some reason. But all of their clothing seemed to be rather classy. Laslty there was simply but cleanly dressed chauffer. Malakai would not be surprised if the man had a blaster on him or tucked into the console of the skiff. The chauffer also doubled as security.

Even with that many people on the skiff there was room for Malakai and Nashyr to not be too close to anybody they didn't want to. "If it wasn't obvious, you look amazing." He said as the skiff took a smooth guided flight over the sparkling Nar Shaddaa skyling. In the night time the moon could be beautiful and it reminded him why he liked living here.

When they got the barge the sound of music, merriment and the sports even from below filled the air. It was not deafening at all, but it certainly was a lively event. Multiple people looked towards Nashyr and Malakai, each for different reasons but it did not last indefinitely. "I think drinks are a good start, right?" He felt a little nervous though he tried his best to not show it.

@Killa Ree

 

[Nashyr Ris]

She could feel eyes on her; she kept her head held high, one hand on her hip when Malakai stared. "I suppose I'll do," she grinned, dark brows raised subtly. Eyes took in the glittering lights that sparkled below them, and for once in this crowded ecumenopolis she felt alone. She grinned at him, giving the Grysk a subtle wink.

"Good, because if I looked horrible we'd have problems," she almost murmured throatily at him. He seemed almost... anxious? The Cathar couldn't explain it, but there was something to the male that felt different. Perhaps it was the new business opportunity. "Drinks would be lovely," she nodded once, following him with a tall, straight spine and slow, easy walk. She could feel so many eyes on her; jealousy, open curiosity. The music that flowed through, the screams of the crowd below... all of it screamed of a world she knew that, without the Grysk's help, would never touch.

And yet, oddly, it didn't appeal to her.

Most, perhaps, craved this height of status, but she personally found it overkill and almost ridiculously overdone. She was pretty certain this joint wouldn't have her favorite drinks, either; a hazard of going anywhere to any sort of private event. Still, there was a grade of beauty here... and they had ample time to relax, and admire, before the true reason of their coming here would begin.

@Darasuum

 

[Kai]

"Yeah. I hate it when I look bad." He gave a wry grin knowing the irony of the joke. As they made their way to the bar he only looked around for who would be his target for an investment pitch. But there was not a lot of time for that while also trying to look aloof. That was how these people survived. They feigned ignorance since attention and time were valued commodities that even the rich could not always afford.

Ordering the second cheapest cognac available he still grunted to himself at hearing how much it would cost. <"First one is on the house?"> He said in hutttese to the bartender with a hint of suggestion in his question. He did his best to disguise his hand movement as if he were reading from the drink menu though he doubted anybody present would notice.

Turning back to Nashyr he was interested in his new business associated. "So you said you were looking for security before." He referenced what she had said back in Slicer's Vice. "Nar Shaddaa's not known for being a safe place. Why stay here?" Malakai figured the Cathar would have left and tried living somewhere else if it was a problem but he was curious about what motivated her. Some people cheered in the background as someone made a decent play in the game below.

@Killa Ree

 

[Nashyr Ris]

"I did leave, for a little while," she demurred, leaning on the bar to wink at the bartender, then grin in thanks when two drinks were slid over, his cognac and her own sparkling wine. Nothing fancy, but it was something to keep her hands occupied. "Didn't make it. Nar Shaddaa seems to be one of the few places I can keep a xeno strip club without xenophobes trashing it every other Wednesday."

She eyed him contemplatively, giving a small sip of her own drink, head tilted. "Why choose my place? I'm sure there are other strip joints that would ask for cheaper accommodations for business. And don't tell me Sunshine was the convincing factor, the only person she doesn't hate is me." She chuckled, eyes sweeping out across the crowd.

All of them glittering, sparkling, glamorous. Shame it was all a ruse for the gilded prison they kept themselves in.

@Darasuum

 

[Kai]

He chuckled a moment before giving her an answer. He said what his answer was going to be in his head first and it made him laugh because he knew it was probably not what she wanted to hear. "Actually I have approached other establishments. You know that drag race? Well the Hutt that was orchestrating the bets works for me. There's some other weird girl who owns a night club called Nightfall...trying to see if we can come to an agreement. Of course she does kind of give me the creeps...." His mind trailing off, remembering how Alais was dressed. Actually she had been dressed like someone going to the event they were at. Out of place "definitively weird. But she knows her business." He shrugged took a sip of his drink to solidify his decision on that opinion.

He had really checked the place out and figured it was a worth checking out at some point. But it had been a night out with the boys which led to Malakai nudging in the direction of Slicer's Vice. Something in the back of his mind and told him to go there. Can't exactly explain that easily. It had been curiosity, and then perhaps opportunity in that order.

Looking at Nash's face he could see her looking at all the cityscape with a sense of melancholy. "Sounds to me like your priority is what you're doin' not where you doin' it." At least that was what she claimed. Plenty of people had bad reputations elsewhere so maybe Nar Shaddaa was her only place to go. Or it could be something else entirely. But Malakai had a feeling she wasn't lying, at least as far as she knew. Malakai still did not know the woman very well and he wanted to learn more.

"What is it about owning a strip club that has enthralled you so? Are you saying that location is in third place with second place being safety and dancing takes the gold?" His tone was not trying to sound like an accusation though he knew it probably sounded that way. In fact if that was the case then he was impressed by the Cathar's devotion to a specific line of work. There really are dancers with hearts of gold. I may have actually gained a little faith in civilized living. oh hey my drink is empty already.

@Killa Ree

 

[Nashyr Ris]

She smirked, raising a brow. "Alais, huh?" The name didn't ring any bells... but then again, strip clubs were a dime a dozen just about anywhere in the Outer Rim. Oldest profession in the world, she mused to herself wryly. "Hmm." She simply replied to his statement, giving him a side eye. "It's a good business investment to take care of your girls while they're working. Building trust and connections on some level... makes them stay faithful to their work, and makes paydays much easier. And cuts." She gazed out to observe the crush around them, eyes half-lidded.

"You have roughly the same situation. Hired help is good and all... but if you leave it simply to that, they can just as easily stab you in the back."

She smirked at him at his final comment, shrugging. "What can I say, people love me when I move. As for the rest... I'll leave you to puzzle that out for yourself." She was definitely teasing him now, a grin on her lips and eyes glinting in amusement. She was easing into this, not being forced to socialize just yet... but yet talking about that rust burner race reminded her of someone else that was there. That kid... Hannibal.

There was something about these two that almost felt familiar... but then again, maybe that was just an old Cathar reading into people too much.

@Darasuum

 

[Kai]

I WISH someone would take me out. Do you mean like on a date or like with a blaster? Surprise me. His mind drifted for a moment. He had a satisfied buzz going thanks to the cigaras. "Then again this is kind of a date." He mumbled, realizing he said it out loud the Grysk cleared his throat and placed the empty glass on the bar. Raising a hand he ordered a second overpriced beverage, this time paying for it.

"So you dance for the sake of everyone else?" His tone skeptical. Perhaps he was not understanding what she was trying to say. Or maybe she was just making something up and did not want to tell him the truth. He shrugged and accepted his new drink.

There was a Falleen there, a member of Black Sun who looked to be chatting up his some elder gentleman and his own significantly younger wife. She looked bored out of her mind. "I think I see someone to talk to." He said to alert the Cathar. Without delay he began heading across the deck of the sailbarge to talk with the Falleen.

@Killa Ree

 

[Nashyr Ris]

She grinned, then shrugged. "I dance also because it's fun and keeps me limber," she commented easily, watching as he seemed off in his own head. It seemed the Grysk was the type to get lost within his own thoughts; it was strange in the least, such a spacey guy would have so many connections.

When he spotted the Falleen she wordlessly followed, drink still in hand. Though the idea of getting plastered was nice, she needed her full focus tonight, especially in the face of a race known to be charming in its' manipulations. Black Sun... of course.

Why did she have a bad feeling about this?

@Darasuum

 

[Kai]

Malakai was glad to see Nashyr follow out of the corner of his eye though he would have understood if she had held back. Clearing his throat he made his introduction to the furrowed face of the Falleen. "Pardon me for interrupting. I just had to come over and introduce myself. Malakai Beck." He extended a hand that at first glance looked skeletal but at closer inspection was just a hand with a skeleton like glove. The Falleen would look at if for a moment and not take it.

"And what is it you do...Mister Beck?" He said with an expected reptilian voice.

"I'm in delivery and acquisitions actually. I hope its not to forward of me but I was actually wondering if I could talk to you for a moment." The Falleen had probably been approached by people before. His shoulders dropped and the merriment seemed to be fading from his eyes. "But hey you don't want to hear about that!" He corrected himself and turned to allow Nashyr an opening. The green skinned man looked in her direction, not sure what to expect after seeing a pedestrian Grysk. A singular eyebrow cocked as if he were being kept from more important things. Malakai would gesture with his head for the Cathar to take the lead if she were so inclined. "This is Nashyr Ris. She's in adult entertainment. Do you want another drink Mister..."

"Xash" He said simply and held the glass out for Malakai to take like he was a buttler. "...I'll be right back." He said suddenly remembering that he was going to be paying for yet another overpriced beverage. Talk about spending money to make money.

@Killa Ree

 

[Nashyr Ris]

"He's not a bad boy," she commented, giving a wry smile. "But young. Some age differences," her eyes scanned the other couple that had attended with the male before, "...shouldn't be attempted." She offered her best smile, a hint of mischief playing in greenish-gold eyes. "Pardon his manners, though."

The musical number changed in the background, and more cheers from below indicated at least one side was winning. She knew something of the Falleen; something to do with pheromones, a thing she appreciated more than once from one of her first dancers; Kiz'ala was very popular before she pulled a retirement stint. A shame, they were lovely for a reptilian race.

For the most part anyways.

"I don't know about you, but tonight shouldn't be a night of strictly business, but of leisure.. and other things." She tilted her head towards where the open floor waited, and other couples danced.

"Care to dance, Mr. Xash?" Her eyes sparked a more sultry note, her voice dropping to a murmur to show her words weren't meant for the Grysk's ears to hear... but maybe he could anyways. And if he dared to look close enough... he would have noticed that beneath the dress, there was little else. A hint of wicked mischief still lingered in her gaze... she could play the game of teasing the Falleen out if she had to. There was a subtle hint of persuasion to her voice...

"You would be doing me a favor as well, he isn't the best of dates."

@Darasuum

 

[Kai]

Malakai made it to the bar, returning the empty glasses. With nobody but himself and the bartender nearby he didn't worry about holding back on the force. <"Help me out brotha. What really happens at these sort of place."> he wanted to give the man a sense that they were kindered spirits. The Grysk spoke in Huttese, with a more street wise inflection that was all to real. Kai's words were not too far from the truth all things considered. "Also two more of these I guess."

"Sure thing." The bartender took the glasses and set them aside before making the drinks. Kai looked over his shoulder at Nashyr. She was already heading towards the dance floor with the green skinned arms dealer in tow. "Sometimes things can get wild. Flashy displays that live up to their reputations. There's a reason there's no carpeting on this barge if you catch my drift." While it confirmed some feelings Kai had about this situation it didn't make him feel any better.

"Are you jealous?" A stranger's voice came into his ear as he saw a woman approach the bar next to him. The man turned to look at her with an expectation for introduction or explanation. What he saw was a displeased woman that quickly turned into a smug smile. "Pardon?" She tapped her golden finger against her lip and then nodded towards Nashyr and Xar. "Are you Jealous? I am. He hasn't danced with me in awhile." Malakai was starting to piece together that this woman was Xar's plus one or maybe another guest that had a thing for him. It made sense. "I'm envious of plenty. But I don't think stealing a dance is all that bad." Though admittedly he did think she was a total sniper. "Though I'm sure you look good in green." He admitted a smile and began heading back towards the table with the drink refill for Xar.

@Killa Ree

 

[Nashyr Ris]

She gave a knowing smile as he didn't seem to dismiss her like he did so easily her companion. At least she was making some headway... from the corner of her eye, she saw something pink and gold step in Kai's way, and had to suppress a chuckle that the woman thought she was going to score. Many women here were looking to be used, it was part of the business down here on the Smuggler's Moon; you had to be willing to sell a few assets to gain a few.

And she was laying it out for this man, arm linking through his. Her voice was low... gentle to his, head cocked slightly. "And if I'm feeling especially nice... how would you like some more private arrangements? Ones without attachments... or business. All pleasure," she hummed, then leaned back, giving him a sly, knowing smile.

"Think about it... and if you're interested, you'd be welcome to rescue me anytime." She gave him a small wink, and when Kai approached she didn't relinquish her newfound 'friend' just yet; she dangled the bait, now he just had to take it. And maybe that woman that gave a sweet moue to Kai earlier could be of some use too.. but the air was swirling with something else that hung over the crowd, and it dripped even thicker than the money that glittered over each and every body here.

Lust, of all forms. And she could imagine in a place like this, using it to your advantage could gain many allies... she looked forward to pulling all the cards she could to get what she and Kai needed.

One thirsty sucker at a time.

@Darasuum

 

[Kai]

The man set the drink at the table instead of handing it to Xar since he seemed to be preoccupied with Nashyr. The Falleen, ironically seemed to have fallen victim to the temptations of the Cathar woman. Xar was trying to figure out how to get what he wanted. Malakai did not need the force to watch it play out on his face. "I think I've got some work for you Mister Beck...if you're up to the task." Only after he finished the sentence did the reptilian man look directly at Malakai.

"No need to be so formal. Malakai, please." The skullish grin stared back. Xar nodded a little in response. "Alright, Malakai, I've got some freight needing a pickup on Ixtar. But I need it moved to Pantolomin"

That was enough information for the dark sider to believe the Falleen was serious. "Is there a time frame?" A hint of confidence in his voice. "Yes as a matter of fact. I hope you have a ship that is as discreet as it is fast because you'll need both. I shouldn't need to tell you those Sector Ranger have been more active recently. Consider this a chance to prove yourself."

"Seems fair. Should I have my people get in touch with your people or...." He trailed off with the joke though he was just as ready to pull out a commlink and get any details from the man. The Falleen sighed and would exchange some information. "I'll give you the details later. You can understand I don't want to talk business on a night of leisure." Xar took his drink allowing Malakai to look at Nashyr to see how she was doing. From the side he felt like the other woman was still eyeing him for some reason. "You ever been on a luxury barge before?" Kai finished his own drink shortly after Xar . Silently the man agreed with Xar and even if he wanted to he would not get anything more from the Falleen. At least for tonight. The Grysk was lucky how well things had gone so far. He was going to enjoy the opulence at his fingertips while he could.

END THREAD​

@Killa Ree