Ask [Raxus] Celestial Dining

[Max Dram]

THE RAXULON LEDGE RESTAURANT
Raxus, 18.00hrs local time​

"Your reservation Sir?"

"Dram, 1800". Max eyed the Maître d expectantly.

"Ah yes, you are the first to arrive Sir. We have you on table five, by the pillar there".

"We'll take the corner table".

The Maître d was thrown. "The corner - no Sir I am afraid that table is reserved - as I say, we have table five for-"

Max took a step towards the officious man and his little lectern, leaning over him imposingly. "You'll give us the corner table. Any issues, tell them to take it up with Commander Barron, 17th Regiment". He stared the toad down, hazel eyes brooking no argument.

"Very well Sir". The Maître d swallowed his pride and led Max across the room. He might complain to someone, but the Lieutenant doubted it. Few on Raxus would trifle with the Imperial armed forces holding the planet in their grip. As it should be.

Max had showered and shaved, his blond hair cut with military precision. He wore a crisp, tailored blue suit and dark tie that followed the line of his broad shoulders perfectly. Some might think the tie a bit much for a simple dinner, but the Ledge was one the capital's most exclusive eateries and Max was a military man after all. He didn't do second best. Besides, he wanted to play all his cards right tonight.

That was another reason he wanted the best table. The Maître d seated him at the corner one he'd picked out, beautifully dressed for two and flanked by floor to ceiling windows on either side, giving panoramic views of the Raxus skyline. It was also sufficiently far away from the few others that they could talk in confidence.

Max waved the man away, perusing the wine list while he waited eagerly for Celeste. He only met the woman a few hours ago, but there was no doubt in his mind.

This was a date.

@LadyRen

 

[Celeste Stythani]

It was a little hard to believe that Celeste had gotten the chance for such a pleasing, upcoming dinner shared with someone interesting here on Raxus as she was well aware of the fact that she'd leave this academy soon. There was not much more she'd learn her and she knew Vahliri planned on heading back to her old home, Rattatak, soon. Whenever the master would call her, she'd have to leave, but it was probably not tonight. Tonight dine in a fine restaurant with pleasant company and leave all work related concerns behind for now. This was also something she had learnt: Regardless of how ambitious and used to constant, never-ending work she was, breaks were actually an excellent way to re-center and focus and she had a slight feeling that this night would still aid the both of them in various areas.

She arrived right one time and was content with his choice of scenery as the fine dining restaurant actually held a renowned, excellent reputation in the Capital. There were all kinds of higher ranked Imperials and a few prosperous civilians around, but the location was fortunately not too crowded for now. She was dressed in a elegant, made-to-measure black dress that was gemmed with transparent, white crystals that sparkled underneath the brilliant pompous ceiling lights with every step she took. She had given her now opened hairs soft curls and a soft, sweet fragrance accompanied the woman as she was walked towards the table where Max was already seated.

Her black heels softly clacked against the floor, making her realize that the last occasion she had gotten to dress up had been Altair's coronation. Her steps were graceful and she was content to find herself in such a place again. The last months had been draining, but absolutely worth it and that was also a proof to it. "Wow...I've got to say that I'm impressed. The suit might even suit you better than the training clothes...". She greeted him with a warm smile, her lips now dark red. She was never one to overdo make-up at all, but for such a special occasion she had applied some lipstick, eyeliner and mascara. Celeste was curious and excited to find out what that night offered, but it still seemed like the chemistry matched.

@Alhon

 

[Max Dram]

Max was still thumbing the wine list, glancing up now and then, when he saw her.

His mouth actually fell open slightly before he caught it. Celeste looked incredible. She was walking over to the table like she owned the place, golden hair falling in soft curls and her petite figure beautifully silhouetted in a knockout little black number that left just enough to the imagination. High heels clicked rhythmically as she drew closer, sounding the march of a woman who projected power in every way Max understood.

"Well that dress sure as hell does" he replied, rising and looking her up and down, unable to hide his reaction and not even wanting to. "We'll have to do our wrestling in first class circles from now on".

He pulled out a chair for her, simultaneously loving every moment and pinching himself. How had he got here.

"What would you like to drink?" It struck him he still knew so little about Celeste. Where she was from, what she liked, what her favourite things were. Max didn't care about the details of most people's lives, but he'd been fiercely interested in this woman from the moment they met. "Do you have a favourite? It's probably Tevraki whisky for me".

@LadyRen

 

[Celeste Stythani]

She had to admit to herself that he looked damn fine in that suit and so she obviously wasn't holding back that genuine compliment. She also didn't miss the way he was looking at her, his eyes literally growing wider and sparkling in both excitement and admiration. She shared his delight and there was nothing fake about her smile, a thing that didn't happen too often.

This slight tension between them immediately came back, but it was partly broken by his little joke and so an chukle followed. "I thank you kindly...Well, while we can try, I doubt that we'd come that far..." she replied amusedly, gratefully slipping into the chair she offered with a soft "Thank you". Now he was not just charming and fun, but also a gentleman. It seemed like the random arrangement of their sparring session had been a rather fortunate one and she was very satisfied with her good-looking company for the night.

She didn't want him to treat her like he did right now because she wielded powers he couldn't even grasp, or due to a rank or anything similar, but it seemed like his interest and demeanor was actually genuine anyway. She was very pleased by that finding and she could literally sense that he was actually glad to meet her again, to get a chance to get to know the other one better and to explore the other person in a way a battlefield would never offer.

She picked up the second wine card as he asked and quickly scanned it, the golden curls gracing her shoulders while she elegantly crossed her legs. "I can't tell you way, but I would have assumed you were a whisky drinker" she replied, her light blue eyes flicking over to him again. She had already found what she had been looking for and so there was no reason not to enjoy the sight. "I've always enjoyed some sweet, spiced wine from Trenwyth" ever since she had met the princess Xyla, she had favored the dark, velvet liquid. "But i also never say no to a refreshing, fruity cocktail" she answered, slightly tilting her head to the side. She was so curios to learn more about him that she wanted to share some of the questions that were on her mind, but they had all night to chat. "Tell me. In which academies did you train?". She had actually seen a few military academies from the inside and so she was curious to know whether their paths had possibly crossed before.

@Alhon

 

[Max Dram]

Celeste settled in at the table and seemed as pleased to be there as he was. For all the esteem Max held her in, she acted like another ordinary girl despite her Sith gifts. But she was extraordinary.

She was as confident as she had been in the training gym though, those blue eyes scanning him unapologetically. The Lieutenant was not remotely self-conscious, but even he had to wonder just how much a Sith could see when she looked at you hard, clothed or otherwise. He tried not to flex gratuitously under scrutiny.

"Can you now?" he said, musing over her already having a sense of his drinking habits. "Spiced wine, very refined. I like a whisky mixer, but wine and cocktails go down just as well with me too". He motioned to the waiter and ordered them a couple of drinks.

"Do you have any other 'senses' about me? I do hope I can disprove a few of them" he smiled and winked.

Her question about his training was refreshing, it seemed she was as interested in him as he was in her. "I grew up on Adumar" he began "we're a pretty militaristic people, I used to carry an actual sword half the time would you believe. So I came into the IDF with more experience of combat than most, but I still did my basic training on the capital."

"I loved it - we thought we knew how to make war on Adumar but the Empire does things on a whole different scale". He smiled to himself - even their leaders are smart, sexy and powerful. "Since then, I've done my junior command courses here on Raxus, but I've been out in the field a lot recently". He decided to ask the same question of her.

The drinks arrived and Max raised his glass. "To you, Celeste".

@LadyRen

 

[Celeste Stythani]

A harmonic unity of classical instruments was faintly playing in the background while the room was filled with chatter from different corners. No one was actually close enough to eavesdrop on their conversation and so she was even more relaxed about this all, her good mood even improving further. Also, she was relaxed and relaxation didn't come easy when you were often under a lot of pressure, maybe that was exactly why she enjoyed his company so much as well. It was lighthearted in a way as if they'd known each other longer than just a few hours.

While she obviously had ethereal advantages on reading him, he was also still a thrilling mystery. There was much to discover and his preferred beverages were just one of them. Her lips curled further into a smirk and she added a little, confident "Mhm" to his question, her gaze lingering on his. As he asked her to elaborate what she was sensing she pretended to focus properly, her eyes narrowing as she pretended to study him analytically. In fact, she wasn't doing such a thing and she was also not diving into his mind as he gave her no reason to do so or be mistrusting about him. "Confidence is radiating off you, because you do trust your skills" she began, "You're ambitious, passionate and determined and know exactly want you want...I admire all those attributes" and she shared them too. "I can sense that we're getting along so well because we're indeed much alike. I have a feeling that our aspirations and goals are also shared to vast extents" she gently stroked a strand of loose hair that had fallen forward behind her ear. The latter fact was indeed some feeling she just had. Their motives seemed aligned and that was also a rare occurrence. There was quite some unrest and tensions in the ranks of the Empire, but the two of them simply seemed to share a different kind of tension while the rest seemed rather fitting.

She then attentively listened to what he was sharing about his life, her vibrant eyes not leaving his. "Adumar? It seems like you've truly found the right path for you" she was sure that his natural aptitude was just adding to a stellar career and she was excited to see him rise like that. "Have you ever gotten back to Adumar?" she curiosly wondered, but it was then when their drinks arrived. "And to you...to us and this beautiful night" she relied, raising her own glass with the vivid, colorful liquid before she moved it to her red lips, taking a sip.

"I was born on Kalist IV and my family has always been involved with the Empire. My uncle was a Sith, so he was the one brining me in. I was trained in different academies all across the galaxy and went into diplomacy and business afterwards" she made no secret out of her unplanned detour with the FWA, yet she assumed he knew all about that. "The Dark lord assigned me to Masted Kahtal when I came back to Raxus and she helped me grow ever since...". But this was probably over soon. She'd probably take the reigns herself again soon. "Right now I've been focusing on the Dark Side. I studied, I trained, but I'll set course for Rattatak and its surrounding systems soon". Without intending it, she was approaching a topic both relevant and probably interesting for him, but there was no need for tiptoeing around those interests. "I might need support in shapes of troops and capable men and women actually, and I feel like I would have just the right task for you as well". This was obviously something she'd do after Rattatak was secured, but the planning was in full swing there.

@Alhon

 

[Max Dram]

Max couldn't argue with her assessment. He was indeed confident, ambitious and determined. Passionate too, though for more than one thing at the moment. He was pleased she felt they were on the same page, he felt the same, and it meant a lot to him that she recognised his efforts to drive the Empire forward in his way, as she was doing in hers.

"I've been back once or twice" Max said, briefly visualising his homeworld. "I still have a lot of time for the place, for the people, there's work to be done there one day. But there's always a bigger challenge to face out here, in the galaxy".

She returned his toast and they both drank in a brief moment of silence, Max watching those perfect red lips as Celeste sipped her cocktail. She had excellent poise, looking a million credits just sipping a drink.

He listened intently to her family background. Unfortunately, he knew little of Kalist IV, though he recalled it was in the Core somewhere, but the family connection was interesting. He had heard the Force could run in families and it seemed Celeste came from a line of Sith. Lineage was prized on Adumar and it only increased his opinion of her.

Her talk of the Dark Side was even more fascinating. In truth, Max was somewhat jealous of both Sith and Jedi. The Force was an incredible power to possess - the few instances he'd witnessed had proved that to him. Having the Force in one's arsenal could replace an entire platoon or more, he knew.

Max had squared with the fact he didn't have it a long time ago and fashioned himself into the strongest he could be without. Celeste made him feel he'd succeeded in that, but uniquely she was offering a way to go further; combining their talents. Maybe they could do it all.

"I have no assignment after Ankus" he said, shuffling in his seat "and, if it's up to me, my next mission will make a real difference where it matters" he looked up at her radiance, extending a hand across the table to touch her wrist. Everything that mattered to him was pointing him towards Celeste, his professional ambition combining with a growing magnetism he felt with her.

"I believe you are that difference Celeste. Name your task and I will see it done".

@LadyRen

 

[Celeste Stythani]

He was not disagreeing with her at all, but it didn't suprise her as she had stated rather positive attributes and she wasn't digging too deep to discover possibe flaws or anything. They were talking and through this pleasant conversation they'd learn, and she was also confident that once they would get to work alongside one another, they'd deepen that knowledge, possibly even stumpling upon more shared intrests.

The last time she had actually felt like she was feeling now was when she had sneaked out of the Palace with Altair, and they had gotten to enjoy a full night off. She had learnt to seize such moments and what she enjoyed the most was that this here wasn't just great while it lasted, but it would hold beneficial long-term effects as well if their cooperation would continue to feel so promising.

Even if she was well-educated and had traveled a lot in the past, Adumar had never been her destination before and always, she was eager to learn more about it. She could once again see that his work ethic was just like hers. There was always stuff do to, so visiting homeplanets wasn't actually a thing you could do often. She still wondered whether his family still lived there, but this was something she'd figure out sooner or later. "I know exactly what you're talking about" she replied with a sympathetic smile, taking another sip of her drink before she put it down. It had been quite some time since she had drunk alcohol and so she was assuming she'd get a little tipsy if she'd drink too much before dinner. While she didn't mind being a little drunk, she was afraid of what would happen with lowered inhibitions and passion running even higher...especially because this never-ending tension didn't disperse right now.

He seemed fascinated, perhaps even enticed by what she told him next and she was happy to elaborate. She had seen it before and she sensed it now. He wanted to learn more about the Force, probably because he hadn't been in contact with it often and she was excited to show him. He suddenly shuffled and then reached out, another very bold move she'd actually found hot and tempting at once...Without hesitating she gently laid her hand on top of his, her thumb briefly but softly grazing his skin while her smile widened. He seemed more than interested in her and to work with her and she had purposely wrapped him around her fingers or anything. Their shared interest was organic and mutual and she seemed to thrive in that genuinely passionate encounter.

"I'm glad your interested" their eye contact was getting unbearably intense and now she had to shift on her chair as well, trying not to loose herself in those upcoming emotions. "I'll give you all the details once I've returned from Rattatak, but I'm looking forward to our collaboration". Now, they were crossing the line to business and serious matters again, but it was good to know that he had not just agreed, but seemingly saw that as a huge chance for both of them, and well, it actually was. Still, they found themselves in the here and now and she couldn't deny that almost paranormal attraction that was bringing her back to the present and not the future just now.

For a moment, her thoughts flicked to darker places and she was painfully reminded that she could not fully lower her guard. The Force was telling her to trust him, but as her back touched the backrest, a hint of pain shot through her body and she was reminded how trusting someone easily had led her into a spiral of unpleasant events and the greatest mistake she had ever done. As she was all composed, he might not have noticed a single thing about what was going on in her mind, but that internal battle was soon over. This was something different. She could feel it and she'd follow her instincts. "Choosing this restaurant was an excellent move. It's stunning...". She was back here in the present and the tension that lingered in the air almost soothed her. She had a few things on her mind, but cautioned herself, considering her current position, and reminded her to be careful though. She still couldn't grasp why she found his presence so overwhelming right now, but maybe it wasn't her place to question it. Stunning was her view indeed and that longing remained...

@Alhon

 

[Max Dram]

Celeste didn't pull away, but instead laid her own hand on his. Her touch was electric and only urged Max on. She wasn't pulling up the drawbridge, but inviting him in. It was fast, but it was right and he was not going to question it.

"Then I hope you're not held up on Rattatak long" he said, never taking his eyes over her as he stroked her hand "If I wasn't deploying myself, I'd find a way to come with you. Today has been too good to have it cut short unnecessarily".

Her sudden interest in their surroundings was unexpected and he thought he saw a brief flicker behind her eyes, the smallest cues indicating concern. "You have worries?" he asked softly, wanting her to know she could share them. He was confident he'd proven himself a cut above most soldiers - most men even - but there were still half a dozen valid issues Celeste might foresee in dating an officer.

"It's fair to say that exploring....this...is not without risk, for both of us" he paused, leaning closer and taking her hand in both of his now. "But, for reasons I can't quite explain Celeste, I feel like to hell with any risks". It did surprise him how much he was invested, a girl had never got inside his head quite so quickly before. But he just knew he wanted this and he was certain she did too.

The waiter drifted near, but Max warned him off with a look. He was only hungry for Celeste, and her answer.

@LadyRen

 

[Celeste Stythani]

Maybe it was because she had been forced to contain any sparks for quite some time, or maybe it was just this unexplainable effect he had on her. They had stumbled upon each other coincidentally, but it didn't seem like either of them intended to keep it that way and make nothing for than a easygoing training session out of it. No...this was different and she didn't seemed to be the only one who was holding something back for a little while...

Sparks seemed to fizzle all around them while she couldn't get enough from those calming, beautiful, warm and kind, yet passionate, hungry eyes. She was drawn to him like a magnet and it suddenly became hard for her to resist the temptation to lean even closer. Not here, she thought. She had to be careful. She was off duty, yet this didn't mean she could use such a fine dining establishment to unleash that raw passion. Not in their positions.

She was surprised by how he picked up her slight change of demeanor, which resulted in a slightly raised eyebrow. He must have indeed been interested in her in more than one way as most men probably wouldn't have thought anything into yet. Yet he was caring, somehow worried, but this was nothing he should worry about. She softly shook her head, the warm touches they shared electrifying her body. "It won't be long, no. I'll be back soon. And no, no worries, but an idea" she clarified, leaving no doubts she was saying the truth. She briefly broke eye contact just to scan the room like she had done when she had entered. Bingo.

He encompassed her delicate hand in his much larger hands. What he softly phrased only added more fuel to that inferno inside her, her heartbeat accelerated while it seemed like she wouldn't be able to hold back much longer. He made her smirk once again, wondering how bad this would actually be. Exploring that wasn't a crime, the only thing she knew that she couldn't let anything interfere with her training and loyalty, but none of that was at stake. This was so different and it already seemed precious, because it was so damn tempting. They were in a restaurant, yet food was the least of her concerns. She needed something different and it seemed like he'd willingly give that to her. Her smirk changed from seductive to mischievous as she reached out with her free hand, grabbed the glass and skillfully inconspicuously spilled a swig over her lap. "Oh no" it was actually nothing but an excuse. "Can you help me wash it out?". She had seen the entrance ports to the restrooms and they weren't too far off. Admittedly, this wasn't a classy, fine location, but what choice did they have? This unresolved tension had to leave and it seemed like she wasn't the only one with that on her mind.

@Alhon

 

[Max Dram]

If Celeste had any worries, she seemed to decide to banish them. There was a resolved look in her eye and a sudden excitable edge to her words.

"An idea? About what exac-" but Max trailed off as Celeste picked up her glass and deliberately - clearly deliberately - tipped a small amount onto her perfect dress. Had she gone mad?

Then she asked him to help her wash it out, in the restroom. He knew in that moment she was indeed mad - not crazy mad - but mad about him, for him, in the way he was mad for her. It was clear now they felt exactly the same, both completely committed to the passion blazing in their hearts.

Max rose and followed Celeste to the restroom without a word, buttoning his jacket for appearances and muttering to the waiter about his date needing to freshen up. Blood pounded in his ears and it took a great force of effort to cross the room at a gentle pace, casually following his extraordinary woman into the restroom as if there was no hurry at all.

They entered and Celeste turned to face him expectantly. The door closed behind them and Max's self-restraint finally broke.

He reached down and grabbed her by the waist, sweeping her off her feet and pulling her close. He didn't ask or wait for permission this time, seeing everything he needed in those fierce blue eyes. He took her sweet red lips in his own and kissed her long and deep. She was everything he had expected and the kiss was like a volt switch, sending his whole body into overdrive. He turned slowly, holding her easily in his strong arms and lost in her brilliance.

He pressed her up against the back of the door, a lifetime of clearing buildings assuring him they were alone. Her hands grasped at the lapels of his jacket and he reached out and closed the bolt on the door.

@LadyRen

 

[Celeste Stythani]

They disappeared gracefully, Celeste giving her best to appear worried about the possible stain and Max the gentleman as always, simply wanting to aid the lady in rubbing the drink out of the fabric. She scanned the room for a moment, but it truly seemed like no one was paying actual attention to the pair that was headed towards the bathroom in no particular hurry. She resisted grabbing his hand and instead just walked, seemingly concerned about her dress when she was actually more concerned about losing it asap. Max followed right behind and soon the fiery duo vanished behind a closed door.

Once again, she turned and looked at him and everything was just written in their eyes. They didn't hesitate another second before their lips meet, the last distance between them closing while he lifted her with ease, soon pressing her against the door while they passionately made out. Her whole body felt electrified as this tension suddenly broke, now finally ending in a fervent exchange. Without breaking this intimate contact, she reached for his suit jacket and it was the first layer of fabric to be removed while the two were both not holding back any longer.

----

After quite a while the bolt flicked open, but before Max got the chance to exit, she pulled him close, sensually pressing her lips onto his one more time. She held him by the jacket for another moment, gently rubbing off the trace of lipstick that was smeared across his lips. It was obviously an expensive color and it was claimed to be smear-proof, however they had seemingly overstrained the usual scope of that promise. "Good. That's better" she softly whispered, the grin on her lips wide. She was quickly leaning over the sink, actually tending to the spot before she smoothed it back down, just like her hair, before she made her reappearance.

With that one hunger satisfied, she actually felt ready to order some light, fine dinner. The night was obviously still young and it still seemed like their absence hadn't been noted by any of the dining guests. The staff seemed too busy to notice either and so they could easily make it back to their reserved table without any inconvenient encounters. "Are you hungry?" she cheekily posed the same question she had posed in the training's center, her cheeks still slightly reddish.

@Alhon

 

[Max Dram]

Max held the last kiss for a long moment, not quite wanting it to be over but knowing they had to go back out. He took one last look at the two of them in the mirror, Celeste tending to her lipstick and him straightening his tie. Somehow the tie had stayed on throughout - but they had otherwise looked quite different only a few minutes ago. Now there was virtually no sign they had been up to anything at all. They made each other look invincible.

She gently rubbed the trace off his lip and he nodded, looking into those eyes. "Oh yes, that-" he nodded to what had become their favourite spot behind the door "-is better". He knew she agreed. They had been building up to it all day and now they knew who and what they were together. No more maybes. Only yes's.

They headed back out to their table, seemingly unnoticed, but Max's hazel eyes defied anyone to raise it with him anyway. He was so on top of the world right now any man would be a fool to mess with him.

"Still ravenous" he answered, though his smile was a little more relaxed than earlier in the day. "It's going to have to be the steak for me. How about you?" He was a big meat eater and was looking forward to getting to know Celeste's likes and dislikes and everything in between.

"Then tell me more about this task you need help with. Is it big, small? Overt or covert? And whereabouts?" he plucked an olive from the small bowl on the table and ate it slowly, thinking. "I can use the time between now and when you come back to get ready".

@LadyRen

 

[Celeste Stythani]

That awesome mood that had been triggered after their doings was carrying over to the table, just like this electric feeling that still bolted through her body. Even though they had just left, she somehow ached for more, as this had been just a little taste of what else could derive from that...

She still cleared her throat as she was now seated, forcing her mind not to wander off and relive what they had just done in that fancy, surprisingly spacious and well-maintained restroom. She had checked the mirror before they had left and so she knew that a slight darker, wet spot from the water was the only hint testifying their little spontaneous adventure.

She gracefully took a sip from her drink before her gaze flicked back to her handsome date. Even if this first appetite was satiated, she felt like this night was far from over. "Hmm..." she playfully tilted her head to the side, studying the menu for a moment before she looked back to him. "I'll have the filets". With the assorted sauce and the side dish of fres, sautéed vegetables, it did sounds delicious.

Once they had placed their order, they were left to themselves, being offered the right privacy they needed for sharing such confidential details. "You seem curious...and eager to begin" she noted amusedly once again, actually delighted about this shared intrest. "Once we've secured Rattatak, I was thinking to reach out a little. With the planet leaving the FWA, trade agreements will cease. Rattatak needs food as the ground is not fertile and the terrain hostile. The choice was then rather obvious..." she paused, nipping at her drink again. "Endor is in such close proximity and it's independent. It started off as an idea a while ago, but I'll planning as soon as Rattatak is under the Imperial banner". While Endor was valuable for quite a few reasons, she was also toying around with that idea for other reasons. By conquering the planet she could fully close this chapter. "It's something big and while I wasn't expecting any peaceful information, I was considering doing some covert detail gathering first".

@Alhon

 

[Max Dram]

The Lieutenant listened closely. The fact she was also a meat eater was a small win, but her plans out in the Rim were an even bigger one. He turned her proposals over in his strategic mind, considering the possibilities.

"I know those sectors well" he said "they don't lie far from our space as it is. Having Rattatak back will be a major coup and Endor lies between the two. Bring that into the fold too and we tie up most of known space out there". It was a straightforward win win for the Empire; he should have known Celeste would have the instinct for making such logical gains.

"I'm no farmer" he continued, chuckling at the thought "but a blind man would agree the terrain on Endor is more suitable to agriculture and food production. Might mean a smaller forest, maybe a few less Ewok vermin, but millions of people would benefit. Your people". He did so love that she would soon rule an entire world. It was hot.

He motioned to the waiter for another whisky, taking a decent swig the moment it arrived. The fiery liquid seemed to course through his veins, only enlivening his appetite for Celeste and her mission. "You will know what you want to achieve" he said "but if you want my opinion I'd go straight in. The risk of serious resistance is minimal - beyond the Ewoks I didn't think there's anyone much there - we can land with a couple of platoons, establish an operating base and basic infrastructure to oversee the planet. We can build from there".

Max found himself shrugging his shoulders nonchalantly even though he was completely confident in his advice. "Only a suggestion". She had pushed him onto one of his favourite subjects, namely expeditionary operations, and he had to be careful not to lecture. She was a Sith still.

"I say we because I will be there however you approach it, if you want me that is". He ran a finger around the rim of his glass idly, before whispering childishly "my money says you want me there, and not just for your restroom breaks".

@LadyRen

 

[Celeste Stythani]

Right as she had uttered her rough plans, he seemed to think. In fact, she could already see how involved he was from the very first second, apparently evaluating a couple of plans concerning her endeavor. She couldn't quite tell how long she'd be busy in Rattatak, but once she was off and the planet with its factories fully secured, she planned on getting started.

"Oh I'm glad you do too. I've been around in the grid a lot. Bunduki, Endor, Gannaria, Trenwyth. It's all close, right out of FWA territory as well, apart from Gannaria, so it's indeed an obvious choice. Endor won't be the last..." Her ambitions were higher than that. After securing and winning over independent systems, they could even take advantage of the scattered FWA planet situation on the long-run, but for now, Rattatak and then Endor were on the agenda and she was glad that she could count on him from now on.

She joined in with his chuckling, not fully being able to repress the images of Max on a field wearing some dungarees, that were forcing their way into her mind. "Exactly. It will not only help Rattatak, but ensuring stable food supplies will help expanding the factories, which would then again aid the Empire" she liked his way of thinking and it continued to get even better.

While they sat there in relaxed candlelight, they were starting to outline the plots of something big and she started admiring this strategic brain of his. "True. I don't actually except much resistance either, though I know of some other folk that has settled there. Weakening a planet first can entail advantages, but I do see your point. What we'd also have to consider is how we'd spin this though. Invasions don't make for good PR" and after all, she was still a diplomat as well. Forcefully taking planets was always an option, but finding other ways was often more helpful. "Establishing an actual base absolutely makes sense. Endor has so many desolate forests to offer that we wouldn't even harm the valuable ecosystem" she mused, taking another gulp of the sweet, alcoholic beverage. It was actually truly fascinating how they'd come from sparring, to some nice chatter, to a date, to the restroom and then right into strategic planning.

He seemed confident about his plan and it was obvious that he was also convinced this would be the most beneficial solution, but after all Celeste still had to talk to the superiority first. However before she followed those thoughts, his next reply made her laugh. "That is good to know. I'm glad this seems to work so well, and while I'll appreciate your help one way or another, I'll definitely schedule some bathroom breaks" she answered with a wink, continuing to use this fitting metaphor amusedly. It still hadn't been the most classy location, yet there had been nothing better in sight and it had been rather obvious that they wouldn't have survived dinner. What usually didn't work so well was mixing business with pleasure, but they seemed to be the perfect exception. The night had already been worth it in countless regards.

@Alhon

 

[Max Dram]

She wanted him there. Well, she said so, but he just knew it anyway. He could see it in her eyes. Max smiled and chewed his steak to stop himself saying something else suggestive. The seasoning was divine.

"I'll have you a base up in record time" he said, swallowing and taking a swig of his drink "with a secure perimeter, comms, everything you need to plan your conquest of Endor. My men cut their teeth holding ground on occupied worlds; they know how to get such things done".

He paused, chasing the last few morsels around his plate idly. "It's going to be a little...difficult...being the field with you" he lent back and reached for his drink again, smiling amusingly "do you think you'll be able to control yourself, lady Sith? The uniform has a strong effect on some folks..."

@LadyRen

 

[Celeste Stythani]

While discussing the plans, they enjoyed the amazing food that had been served not long after they had ordered. It was unbelievably delicious and just proved that he seemed to have a great taste. She found a wonderfully harmonic mixture of spices and textures accompanying the perfectly prepared meat. This was all set at a beautiful location and a date spent with thr right company.

It seeme like he was almost bragging about how fast he'd build something up that'd help her move in. Actually, it was sweet, but she wondered why he was promising to put so much effort in this upcoming mission even though the had literally just met. Had she swept him off his feet like that? The thought amused her and a smirk landed on her lips again after swallowing another bite. "That sounds promising" she replied, tilting her head to the side while she was still looking in his eyes. "I feel like the casualties ca be kept at bay. I happen to speak Ewokese and while being fierce every now and then, the Natives usually know when it's time to retreat". If they would relocate, they wouldn't have any troubles. There was no need to slaughter them. They'd obey...

After the serious, strategic discussions something cheeky flashed up in his gaze once again and she already sensed what was about to come. The sheer imagination already made her chukle and as he elaborated on his concerns, she amusedly shook her head, the grin on her lips mischievous though. "I can keep it professional. Can you though?" she teasingly returned the question, reaching for his hand once again, her thumb brushing against his skin. As tempting as uniforms were indeed, nothing could come into the way of a mission. Passionate Sith weren't often known for their patience and ability to resist such temptations, but she was too headstrong to lose focus while on a mission. In this case, business and pleasure had to be separated, especially because they weren't alone. "I'll find different settings to rid you off that uniform". She glared at him, eye contact as intense as ever and that tension seemingly starting to rise once again while he was obviously provoking such a reaction. They had both finished their meals and so a different question laid in the air. "Are you off service until tomorrow morning?".

@Alhon

 

[Max Dram]

So she spoke the Ewok lingo, that was unexpected. Max wondered yet again at Celeste's hidden depths; her interest in Endor had seemed fairly new and yet she had clearly had a brush with the place and its natives before. Oh my there's just so much to find out with this girl.

Max was not so convinced the furry critters would go quietly. Small things were often still meddlesome in his experience, but if they could be encouraged to keep away that would be good enough.

Her riposte was expected. "I owe it to too many people to keep it professional in the field" he replied evenly "most of all you". Max meant it, he was pretty passionate about Celeste, but equally passionate about helping her build what she - perhaps they - deserved. He would not put that at risk when they met again as Sith and soldier.

They touched again and he felt her warmth. "Of course there will still be...opportunities" he agreed, glancing up briefly as his thoughts went to what they might be. A stolen moment in a narrow barrack room, pressed against a cockpit floor, laying together in a ocean of long grass. They could be smart, yes, when they needed to be. "A commander often has to report back to his Sith mistress...".

More moments passed, many of them dives of silence in each others eyes. Eventually, Celeste laid down her cutlery and enquired about his remaining time before the morning. "I am" he replied "off duty that is. We don't ship out to Ankus until 0800". He looked out the window for a long moment, still astounded at the strength of feeling he felt at the thought.

0800 would come far too soon.

@LadyRen

 

[Celeste Stythani]

He seemed surpised about her knowledge about the admittedly exotic language, but didn't as further questions, which was good. She didn't feel like unraveling the story behind it and the only thing he needed to know was that it might be advantageous. Again, PR mattered too and peaceful negotiations would shine a brighter light on the Empire. Yes, it would be an invasion, but keeping casualties low would be a principle to pursue.

"Good" she softly replied, her small warm after he agreed with her in that regard. It was an important condition and they'd both have to remind themselves of it. He started teasing about opportunities and she reciprocated that suggestive glance, however then...he continued into a different direction. Was he overstepping a line there? So far, they hadn't worked together this closely like they apparently would in the future, but if he was reporting to her, they'd have to keep it professional. Just like he said. Celeste, too, had to learn that the hard way. Ranks must be acknowledged and hierarchy did mean something on the battlefield or on missions, even though Celeste was not one of those proclaiming unreserved Sith superiority.

Just with Altair, once his promotion would go through, she'd even be the one following his commands and even if this idea stemmed from her, he could potentially become the one in charge. He kept teasing right now, and since their newfound connection was something new, the construct was rather frail, the boundaries not clearly defined. He couldn't get too cocky. "Careful Lieutenant" she warned him, a dangerous tone underlying her voice. Pillowtalk needed to be kept in the bedroom...not in the midst of such a discussion. Respect still had to be granted, and thus passion had to be kept at bay in certain moments. Not that she wasn't assuming they'd find such opportunities, but he seemed to have gotten a little too carried away.

Her expressions softened again, not breaking eye contact yet though, watching him share the information on his departure. It would be quite a bit until they'd see each other again, so she wanted to make the most out of it. "Good...the night is still young after all". A smile returned to her lips. "Would you walk me back?".

@Alhon