Roman's transport banked low, sweeping through the grey skies of Raxus toward the diamond-shaped complex below.
Deep down, the squire was glad to have made it this far. Roman had been shocked to emerge from his seclusion on Telos IV to find the Empire at war, with the stinking Hutts of all people. The space lanes were more dangerous than usual and he was fortunate Raxus was a major mustering post. No one questioned a squire on his way to report for duty.
The journey had given him plenty of time to think of course and more than once he had come close to going back on his decision. But then he had grasped the amulet around his neck, felt the trace of power still stirring in the metal, and recommitted to his course. He had to think of himself today.
Roman was getting better at that. He had paid another visit to Moff Stennar before leaving, saying nothing of his plans but reminding the man their deal stood irrespective of future events. He would keep the man's treachery a secret and in return he would have access to the spoils whenever he chose.
He had dropped Jace a message too, though he had kept it vague. Roman liked the Mando and he did not like many people. Part of him had wanted to ask him along, but it would have made his task today much harder. Besides, he could not be sure where he was going next, and he already cared enough not to risk landing Jace in more hot water. Maybe when this was all over, they could reconnect.
The ship set down and Roman had the droid pilot sort the relevant clearances. Imperial squires could go most places, though it was rarer for them to do so alone. He had his answers ready should Czerka staff ask, and the makings of a plan. Strangely, despite everything he was risking today, he also had his old confidence.
The ramp lowered and Roman set out across the landing ground toward the complex, his crimson cloak flapping in the wind.
@Nor'baal
