Fandom Fight for Control [closed]

[Lucyfer]

Reveille doubted Governor Tarkin could have planned this. This was somehow her brother’s plan to tighten their control over Sienar Fleets. Not a terrible idea, if it weren’t for the fact that Tarkin was heavily invested in Lothal and their mining industry, to the point of nearly making it a monopoly.

Thankfully, he let contacting anyone slide, for the moment.

They would move forward with that on the Exigency, instead. “Thank you, Supreme Leader.” It would be far easier to mediate from that ship than from a simple datapad. Easier to speak with Governor Tarkin and try to talk sense into either party.

Assuming the worst hadn’t already happened.

~***~

Armitage Hux considered there was much he could ask for, due to this setback, but he’d resist the urge to be so petty. At least, for the moment. He might save that pettiness for tomorrow’s conversations. “That will be all for the moment. Please, show us to the rooms we may make use of,” he indicated with a gesture away from the hangar.

“Right this way,” the Governor turned away from them, and started to lead. Armitage fell in step behind him, making a mental note to do some digging on Tybalt once he was behind closed doors to see how he did fit into all of this.

It did not take terribly long for them to be brought into the Governor’s manor, and escorted to the guest wing where some rooms had, indeed, been set aside. “Is there anything we can get for you at this moment?”

“No,” Hux shook his head, “We’ll determine what else is needed once we’ve settled into the accommodations,” and once he had figured out the best way to go about that, as they stood outside the rooms, “Thank you,” his tone was dismissive. He didn’t need them lingering around any further.

 

[cleopat]

Reveille was fortunately monosyllabic in her response, so Kylo turned back to gaze out the viewport, even if there wasn’t much to see as they traveled through hyperspace. The blur of stars rushed by them, and nothing else was left to be said.

He didn’t dare mention what happened last night. The nightmare. The scream. Begging for her comfort. It disgusted him, yet his mind dared to remember how soft her touch was, a stark contrast to her infuriating personality.

But the trip wasn’t all a waste. He found a holocron, an ancient one by the amount of Force emanating from the object. While the first hologram had been merely an interesting tale, there was more to be seen. He would finish it later, when he was alone. Though Reveille wasn’t gifted in the ways of the Force, there may be a weakness exposed in the message she could exploit and use against him to her advantage. He couldn’t risk it.

~~

Lavinia followed after them, falling to the side of Armitage. She greatly desired to glare into the back of Tybalt’s head, or better yet, put a blaster to it before he had the chance to say or do anything. But there was an audience. How sad.

They reached the wing they would be sleeping in for the night, and Tybalt added his own message before he departed. “I hope you all have a good rest.” His icy gaze settled on Lavinia for a second too long before turning and heading back the way they came.

She noticed, but her face remained expressionless as he turned away. Once the governor and his guest were gone, Lavinia felt comfortable speaking. “General, if I may suggest, perhaps it would be best if we were to share a room, in case should something of great importance or further inconvenience come up during the night.”

The words fell from her lips with ease, even if they were full of bullshit. Maybe he could see that as well and refuse, but if she wanted to further keep an eye on him for her own reasons, and not that of the Supreme Leader’s, then she had to try.

 

[Lucyfer]

In truth, Reveille was too distracted with her own irritation to think much of the night before. At least, initially.

Travel was not as fast as it should be, despite the name ‘lightspeed’. Given, they were traveling a substantial distance. Without lightspeed, they’d likely never make it in a year, let alone the same day. Still, with each passing second, she grew more concerned for what Tarkin may know, or what he may be doing.

Or what situation her brother found himself in.

Still, she could only cycle those thoughts and the possibilities of them for so long. Eventually her thoughts turned back, to try and think if there had been anything she could have done, before or during the events on Korriban. ‘There was no way to get a message, or receive one.’ A fact made obvious by the way she was woken when a message did come through, and the situation she’d awoken in.

Any other day, she might have been pleased to talk about it, or even joke about it, with Kos’tel’lanni. If the tensions between herself and Kylo weren’t as high as they were, she certainly would have. As it was, it didn’t seem like the sort of rumor she wanted spreading, even if it weakened the Supreme Leader in the eyes of plenty.

“Before we return to the Exigency, I believe I should make my request that the events of this mission should be classified.” She was referring to one thing in particular, but didn’t doubt that Kylo would disagree. It wasn’t as if most would understand what a holocron was, anyways.

~***~

Armitage found he couldn’t believe the well-wishes of Tybalt, but he wouldn’t call the man out on his insincerity. He’d been insincere plenty of times without conspiring any action. Immediately, anyways. He would allow the man to leave their presence without a word; in his opinion he’d said enough.

As the space cleared out, the conundrum of how to split the rooms awaited them, and Althea spoke up to address that. It seemed she preferred to bunk with him, and set the pilots together. It was not a terrible idea.

Not to mention Kylo would likely be upset if it was established any other way. She was, after all, still his spy. If she reported of a time where she wasn’t aware of his actions in a strange environment, it could get them both in trouble. It didn’t mean he was pleased with the fact they were in this situation to begin with. “Very well. I believe that arrangement will work,” though perhaps he should have looked at the rooms first before agreeing.

He nodded to the pilots. “You’re dismissed from duty for now. Retire to your chambers, we’ll retrieve you when we’re prepared to leave.”

“Thank you, sir,” one of the two spoke, and then went to their room, as Armitage turned to his own to see what sort of horror awaited them.

 

[cleopat]

Kylo didn’t know what he would do should Reveille spread around what happened last night. Killing her would be his first action. No use keeping someone around with loose lips. But the damage would already be done. People may get the idea that their Supreme Leader is weak and stir an uprising. He was already doing his best to ensure that didn’t happen.

At that thought, he took out his own datapad, filled with unread messages, but he ignored them for now. He was searching for a message sent from the officer he tasked with watching over General Hux. What was her name again? Oh yes, Lieutenant Althea Storax.

She sent a message during the night, and nothing he didn’t already know was detailed. Only what Reveille had already mentioned, that they had gone to Lothal for negotiations. Kylo felt some irritation that nothing else happened. That the general wasn’t truly planning a coup behind his back.

Reveille’s question drew his attention away from the message. “I didn’t particularly had anyone in mind I wanted to tell about the trip,” he sardonically answered. “And since you brought it up, I can expect the same confidentiality from you?”

~~

Lavinia was pleased that Armitage took her suggestion without question. Besides, she really did not wish to share a room with either of the pilots she didn’t know.

She followed after Armitage into their shared room, and she cursed under her breath at the accommodations. The room was quite spacious, with a large window overlooking the surrounding area, but it lacked furnishings. There was a large bed, enough room for the two of them, and a dresser against the opposite wall.

Of course there’s only one bed, Pandion that bastard. She took a few steps into the bedroom, not looking pleased with the arrangement. “I hope you don’t kick in your sleep,” she said dryly, an attempt to lighten their situation.

 

[Lucyfer]

Kylo did not plan to tell anyone. ‘He doesn’t have anyone to tell.’ The thought crossed her mind, but certainly wouldn’t be spoken. There was no one within the Order who used the Force like him, and no one he had as a superior who he needed to report information to. He also had no friends, or even friendly acquaintances.

Unlike Reveille, who’s thoughts went to Kos’tel’lanni as Kylo asked for confirmation. “The vast majority of this I will keep to myself,” she stated, “Some of it I may share with Kos’tel’lanni, but it will not go beyond her,” not to her brother, and even then it would not relate to things that were beyond the scope of the mission.

At least, Reveille didn’t plan to say anything. “Occasionally she has more information on things than I do; she may know more about Korriban, the fiends we encountered there, or other matters.” Kos’tel’lanni’s interest in the Force was different than Reveille’s own, but it was present, and her own knowledge couldn’t be discounted.

She might pick something up that Reveille couldn’t from the holocron – what Reveille remembered of the holocron, anyways. “If she has any insight, I would be willing to have those shared with you.”

~***~

Armitage was less than pleased with the accommodations. If the pilots had a similar layout, he could already imagine the scandalous rumors being created. He was half-tempted to insist he’d just share a room with the father of Commander Sienar, but he doubted that would be appreciated any further.

And it might spark its own set of rumors that he didn’t want to deal with.

Althea at least did not seem bothered by the situation, and Armitage knew he shouldn’t be. His sister wouldn’t. They’d lived in communal spacing for so many years in their youth that it should be normal, and yet, he had enjoyed the luxury of separating himself from it. He didn’t want to go back to sharing spaces.

There was no help for it, except the offer, “I could sleep on the floor.” Even if she’d made it clear she didn’t mind, she may simply be doing so because of his rank and the desire not to upset someone in authority.

Then again, she could have made the same offer for the floor, following that line of thought.

There wasn’t even a table to eat at…this was ridiculous.

 

[cleopat]

Kylo gave her a firm look. He was not pleased she would tell this to even Kos’tel’lanni, but he wasn’t surprised. The Chiss was probably the only other person, aside from her brother, whom she trusted. “If it goes beyond her, both of you will be punished.” Hands clenched tightly before he willed himself to push away the anger. It wasn’t worth getting irritated over right now.

He was intrigued though if Kos’tel’lanni could provide any information on Korriban that he already did not possess. What would a non-Force user know? He had no hope that anything useful would come of it, but the possibility interested him.

“Do so. I am wondering what it is that your Lieutenant-Admiral may know or find out that could be of use.” He tried to play it off as nonchalance, and he tried to not mull over if Reveille could see through him.

The ship left lightspeed, and the Exigency loomed ahead. Kylo focused back on flying the ship into the hangar, finally ending their prolonged mission.

~~

Lavinia knew she wanted to say yes to Armitage’s offer. To see their great general sleeping on the floor? It would be fantastic, and an amazing story to tell.

Yet she didn’t agree to it. “Don’t be ridiculous. There’s plenty of room on the bed.” Her response was strange to even herself, but she didn’t pause to ponder on the potential implications. “Besides, you didn’t sleep last night, and we have a very important meeting tomorrow morning. You need to be well rested. Also, the floor is not good for your back.”

She particularly didn’t mind sharing beds. After spending years alone, she enjoyed the infrequent companionship she had. But this situation was far different. The bed would be shared with the general of the First Order, someone she figured didn’t exactly cared for her. It would be awkward.

But really, in the governor’s estate, why did he have rooms that barren? Maybe it was intentional, somehow. Maybe spite from the last minute

 

[Lucyfer]

Reveille doubted it would ever go beyond Kos’tel’lanni, unless her lieutenant-admiral had reason to speak to the Chiss Ascendency about this. It was unlikely that any of it would warrant such attention. The words of the holocron had been more of a morality tale. The events in the temple did not seem like much to report on. Perhaps more could be gleaned about the creatures they had found, but Reveille didn’t care much.

“She has surprised me from time to time. She is not from the Republic system. Sometimes, she knows things they obfuscated or hid away, from the stories passed down among her own,” of course, she wouldn’t be mentioning Kos’tel’lanni’s own history with the Force, and her own reason to be interested.

Even if it still amused her that they called such individuals ‘skywalkers’.

As the Exigency came into sight, Reveille felt immediate relief. She knew they were not out of trouble yet. There remained a situation to handle with regards to what her brother chose to do, and what Tarkin may yet do. “We’ll get a briefing from her of the situation. If nothing has changed, I believe we should reach out to General Hux and convince him to forgo these plans.”

~***~

Althea was right, and Armitage knew it. He was exhausted from the day, even if he was accustomed to hiding it. Sleeping on the floor would not be good for his rest, nor for his mood in the morning, and he did not need to sour negotiations.

He hadn’t shared a bed in ages. He hadn’t had need or desire to, and even then it was usually Reveille who insisted on it because he’d woken from a nightmare. Despite being younger, she’d taken pains to try and help in those moments, to act almost maternal. He still didn’t know why, or where it came from. They’d never been taught kindness.

He shouldn’t have cared to be kind to Althea, for that matter, to consider her comfort or dignity by offering the floor. He could, in fact, order her to sleep on the floor or join the pilots, but he wouldn’t. “Very well. We’ll share the bed, and make sure we do not stay here another day after.” He shrugged off his own coat and moved to place it over the dresser, rather than within.

The irked thought that there was nowhere to hang it came, and went.

He didn’t even bring a change of clothes…his mood was going to be sour tomorrow no matter what, he suspected.

 

[cleopat]

Kylo gathered that Kos’tel’lanni wasn’t from the Republic. He hadn’t seen anyone like her before, and she bore the same physical traits as an old Grand Admiral from the Empire, and he was certain that one was from the Outer Rims.

He needed to learn more about this Lieutenant-Admiral.

The ship descended into the hangar, and as it safely landed, Kylo stood from the seat. “Good, we need to do so immediately.” As if he needed to tell her that.

The ramp descended to allow the two to disembark from the shuttle. He hoped Kos’tel’lanni was already waiting for them right there, for her sake. For their sake.

He needed to find a way to end Tarkin’s life. Already he had caused far too many problems, which did not bode well for the future regardless of any decisions in poltiical relationships.

~~

Lavinia was pleased when Armitage agreed to her reasonings. It would be silly to argue against something that had such an easy solution. And if he suggested that she’d sleep on the floor instead? She would’ve planted herself firmly on the bed. No way she’ll sleep on the floor.

“Don’t worry, I’ll manage to keep my hands to myself,” she smirked. The next challenge presented itself in the form of their clothes. Obviously neither of them had any change of clothes, and she briefly entertained the notion of sleeping in her underclothes.

Under her light grey tunic Lavinia wore a similarly colored undershirt. She would at least sleep in that. Her belt clinked as she removed it before placing it in one of the drawers of the dresser, and her tunic soon followed. It was her pants she didn’t know if she should keep them off or remove them. “If we’re forced to stay another day, then surely we could argue to return to our shuttle?”

 

[Lucyfer]

Reveille rose after Kylo, only then recalling she wasn’t in uniform. Well, in that moment, recalling. She had already sent Kos’tel’lanni a message that she needed a new uniform, and so, she followed Kylo part-way, but would not descend the ramp.

Kos’tel’lanni was present in the hangar.

So was Commander Sienar, who did not look good. He was pale. Anxious. It was unusual, given his cocky attitude – something had definitely changed.

Kos’tel’lanni greeted Kylo with an inclination of her head, “Supreme Leader,” folded over an arm was a white outfit, “If you’ll allow me in your ship a moment, I need to deliver this to Admiral Hux.” Who was not in sight, which meant she certainly wasn’t decent enough to step out and acquire it for herself, or make the trek to any other room in the hangar.

However, Kos’tel’lanni knew better than to simply barge into the ship.

~***~

Armitage couldn’t help but pass Althea a slightly disgusted look at the remark of keeping her hands to herself. Of course she would. He wasn’t sure if he should be offended at her joke or not – he doubted she honestly would want to reach out to him in the first place. However, he left it at that, and turned aside as he recognized she was taking actions to undress.

Something he would have to consider.

He was at least wearing a tanktop under the uniform. That was practically standard, but pants? No, he wasn’t wearing more than his underwear. He was already determined to keep those on as it was. “If we’re forced to stay another day, we can just take the planet.” That was extreme and he knew it, but he was irritated with the situation already. “Or they can meet us on our terms.”

He certainly hoped there would not be a next time, though. “I suppose we should at least take care of their hospitality for food, even if this is…lacking in a place to eat it.” He wouldn’t eat on the bed. He’d probably eat standing up and use the dresser as a table. It seemed the best idea for now, and another reason he wouldn’t dress down just yet.

At least there was a holoprompter on the wall that he could use to send and receive messages to various areas in the mansion.

 

[cleopat]

Kylo initially didn’t process that Reveille still had his borrowed clothes on, but when she didn’t follow him out, he realized her situation. He had half a mind to bark at her to hurry, but he continued to where Kos’tel’lanni and Sienar stood. He momentarily entertained the image of Reveille emerging from the ship in nothing but his clothes, but he didn't dare think of the gossip that would immediately spread.

Sienar’s expression did not bode well for good news. A hand twitch, but he did not lash out. He needed to hear everything first and see what could be done. He did nod at Kos’tel’lanni, a motioned a hand out for her to board his ship.

Once she made her way, Kylo turned to Sienar with one eyebrow raised. “What happened?” His words were hard, prepared to be angry at the news that awaited them. Sienar normally didn’t look so somber. He crossed his arms over his chest as he awaited the not-so-good update.

~~

Lavinia didn’t notice the slight look of disgust from Armitage. If she had, no doubt she would have poked a little more fun at the situation. It may have helped in lightening the situation. Or she may have irritated him even further. She didn’t once think of the possibility that Hux had never once been touch in a manner beyond platonic or familial.

He spoke as she sat on the edge of the bed and removed her boots. No use in having those on anymore. “Let’s wait to see how tomorrow plays out before we make threats on taking the planet.” She offered him another smile as she clearly sensed his annoyance with the whole situation. She was annoyed as well, as she didn’t look forward to sharing a bed. Or rather, sharing a bed with someone she couldn’t curl around in her sleep.

Armitage did have a point in taking advantage of their hospitality. Neither had eaten in quite a while, a fact Lavinia was sudden aware of. The lack of a place to eat was evident. Maybe she would just eat on the floor, leaning against the bed for support. Maybe she would use the dresser as a table. Something to ponder on when they actually had food.

She looked at the holoprompter. Might as well see what they could offer. She stood from the bed, walking over to the messaging system. “Anything in particular you want?” Whatever he said, she would just make it easy and order the same thing.

 

[Lucyfer]

Kos’tel’lanni gave another nod, grateful, before she moved by Kylo Ren and onto the ship. A glance told her where Reveille was, and she offered out the clothing wordlessly.

Not without expression, though. She raised an eyebrow at the overlarge shirt she was wearing, a hint of mischief touching her gaze. She would definitely be asking about that later.

Reveille just snatched her attire from Kos’tel’lanni, “Guard the door,” she said, and Kos’tel’lanni moved aside to do just that, hearing Reveille start to undress to change into her uniform.

Sienar’s voice, thankfully, carried up.

The man stiffened a bit when addressed, and he glanced to Kos’tel’lanni as he moved to stand in the doorway to Kylo’s ship. Her gaze didn’t suggest he should be silent, even if they were in a public space, so he answered, “Governor Tarkin’s taken his ships and has surrounded Absanz,” his homeworld. Home of Sienar Fleets, “He’s threatening to destroy all of Sienar Fleets if we try to buy out Lothal.” His father had only just left, on his way to Lothal.

Everyone else was there. No one could leave.

“It would be a huge blow to our ability to acquire new ships in a timely fashion, Supreme Leader,” Kos’tel’lanni indicated, so that Kylo Ren would see it as more than a personal thing. “Sienar Fleets has been providing the First Order with ships and equipment for well over three decades,” ever since the First Order came into being, really, “they are the ones who constructed the Supremacy and many other ships,” perhaps they were given the blue prints, but things were built on their yards. Not Absanz, of course – the New Republic would have caught wind of that.

~***~

Armitage scoffed at the ‘waiting to tomorrow’, even if he knew that was exactly what he had to do before he made threats to Pandion himself. It was tempting, of course, but he would wait. He would see how things went. It wasn’t as if he believed Governor Pandion to be terribly efficient anyways. This was just more proof to how inept he truly was, and how easy it must have been for Tarkin to keep him under control.

He glanced back as he heard the boots thud to the ground, and noted Althea wasn’t entirely indecent, just dressed down. He turned away from the dresser, a bit more relaxed, but still being more cautious of his gaze and keeping it up.

The uniforms covered all.

Tunics and undershirts did not, and he couldn’t help but notice then how much more color her skin had than most in the First Order.

He rolled his eyes a bit at her question, “I suppose nutritional shake isn’t on the menu?” He just wanted something simple that he could eat fast and be done with, “What are the options available to us?” He was expecting rubbish junk food at this point.

 

[cleopat]

Kylo swore under his breath. He knew the ramifications of what was happening. Of what would happen should Tarkin chose to attack. Both sides were entering a quagmire, but Tarkin held a greater advantage at the moment.

The man knew he could heavily damage the future of First Order ships for some time. A loss like that would take some time to get over. And he wasn’t oblivious to the personal connection. Emotional connections were a weakness that an enemy could exploit, but Kylo couldn’t deny that even he held such connections in the past. Some would argue he still did.

He would not agree or disagree with that.

“Don’t let your emotions interfere with any decisions we may have to make.” It was a light warning, but Kylo’s voice wasn’t stern. It hinted at his own past with familia issues interfering with the First Order. “What is the current situation on Lothal with General Hux?”

~~

Lavinia couldn’t help but to snort at Hux’s query for a nutritional shake. Of course he would. A man who was so obsessed with making sure everything is completed properly in the First Order would likely only have time to drink one of those disgusting shakes. If they had some, Lavinia would lie. The man needed more in his diet. And she didn’t want to order herself one as well.

Fortunately, they didn’t carry those. She figured Governor Pandion never even had to drink one in his life. “Well, their kitchen is still staffed, so it seems we have a variety to choose from right now.” She perused the possibilities, and given the hour, something on the light side would be better.

“How about a salad?” she offered. “They have a small variety of proteins we could add on it. Or maybe a soup instead? Red gourd soup, could be interesting.” She browsed a little more, but everything presented was either too intricate and complex for a quick service, or too heavy for them to eat if they planned on sleeping soon.

 

[Lucyfer]

The warning was noted, but so was Kylo’s tone. Although Sienar’s initial reaction was to narrow his eyes, it vanished shortly afterwards to a softer look as he recognized there was no hostility or animosity in Kylo’s tone. “I won’t, Supreme Leader.” He was certain they would make a decision to protect Sienar Fleets.

He may have issues with his family, but he didn’t want them wiped off the map, either.


“Unknown,” Kos’tel’lanni sighed, “I suspect General Hux remains asleep, as it is not like him to ignore his datapad.” He had also, apparently, quieted it, or he was just that exhausted. It was irksome in either case. “It is too early for him to have entered negotiations, and I suspect Governor Tarkin is aware of this, as well.”

That was why he moved – so he could send a message directly to the First Order.

Reveille was still finishing up changing, but she indicated, “I want to take our ships into lightspeed to Absanz. I want to engage Governor Tarkin in talks, but failing that, we’ll have to strike.”

~***~

Soup was too warm for Armitage’s tastes at the moment. He was a bit disappointed that there were no shakes, but he hadn’t expected it. People didn’t tend to drink them if they were civilians. They didn’t care if they were missing the nutrients needed for a functional body, they preferred to give into their food lusts instead and eat horribly fried things or other hardly necessary foods. “Fine. A salad will do.”

She didn’t indicate what she meant by variety of proteins, “I’m sure I can eat whatever proteins are available,” he didn’t care much. He would eat to eat, “As for dressings, if they have a vinegary one, that would be preferred.” It was lighter, for one, and he usually found the taste agreed with his palate more than the creamier dressings.

He moved over to observe the menu for himself, frown deepening at all the rather rich – in flavor and price – foods available. Not that it was costing them anything, but Armitage was familiar with luxury even if he preferred not to enjoy it himself. Certainly not to these extremes.

His money was better spent invested in the First Order itself, not his own desires.

 

[cleopat]

Kylo was pleased that Sienar understood the unspoken intentions with Kylo’s words. He nodded at Sienar in acknowledgement before shifting his attention back on Kos’tel’lanni.

“How could he still be asleep?” Kylo was angry, and his words almost came out in a hiss. The man practically never slept, and the one time he did, potential war threatened them. He had been convinced that the general slept only in small naps, when he did sleep, and naturally when they needed him, he was silent.

“Have you tried Lieutenant Storax?” He assumed the woman he assigned to watch over the general was with him, and there was a chance she was awake. Maybe she would answer her datapad, if she knew what was good for her.

Reveille’s request set the tone for the sheer importance of their future immediate actions. They had to prepare for battle against Tarkin, or they risk losing what they’ve fought for. He risks losing what he’s grasping for. “Do so, Admiral. Prepare our ships for potential battle.”

~~

Lavinia took notice of the sudden closeness of Armitage. She continued on as if she didn’t feel the warmth that his body radiated against her bare arms. “I myself was just going to chose chicken to add on.” She selected the option on the holoprompter, before deciding on a slightly sweet vinaigrette for both of their salads.

“Hopefully something like this won’t take too long,” she mused out loud. At the end of the request, she had also asked for some water for the two of them. Even if they didn’t drink it during dinner, it would still be great to have for the night.

She stepped away from the holoprompter now that the order was in the kitchen. “Do you ever indulge in foods other than the shakes and bars issued by the First Order?” She certainly couldn’t see him feasting on a seven course meal, and the way he looked at the menu made her think so.

 

[Lucyfer]

“Yes, I have,” Kos’tel’lanni answered. She had not forgotten who went with Armitage. She even attempted the pilots, to no avail. It was a difficult situation, but when she received Reveille’s messages earlier, she felt some relief that it would soon be wrapped up. Having Reveille, Armitage, and Kylo Ren all gone at once had left her in charge, and it was not a comfortable situation.

If she made the wrong choice in their absence, Kylo Ren would certainly react with hostility.

Reveille set the tone. She didn’t bother to ask Kylo, but made her intentions clear, and he agreed. Sienar relaxed some, and Reveille stepped back into sight, Kos’tel’lanni moving aside. “I shall get the message to our fleet,” Kos’tel’lanni said.

Reveille nodded. “Join me on the Bridge when you’re done,” she knew Kos’tel’lanni would move first to the communications room to move several of their dreadnaughts, “I will be there to speak with Governor Tarkin and move the Exigency.”

“Understood, Admiral.” Kos’tel’lanni would move from the area immediately, and Reveille wouldn’t wait for Kylo Ren, simply step off the ramp and head towards the Bridge, tossing back to Sienar, “Scramble your squadrons and organize the other commanders.” Rani, and the rest who ranked just below him.

“Yes, Admiral.” He was quick to move, as well.

~***~

“Unless they feel like taking their sweet time to get here,” Armitage grumbled, having little faith in the hospitality of this planet. He could only imagine how much longer it would take if they’d ordered something more hearty. If they ordered a stew, he could imagine they’d make it from scratch and it wouldn’t be ready for hours. It would not be something they had pre-made.

The query that came from her was not unexpected, given the situation. “Indulge? No.” At least, not in a while now. There had been a time in his younger years when he did, but he had grown out of that habit, “I am accustomed to eating it when necessary on worlds of others, but I prefer to stick to what is offered by the First Order. At times I will partake of things beyond the nutritional shakes and bars, but they are the best things for our health.”

Something he knew his sister didn’t agree with, given she was more inclined to have a variety of foods and try to calculate need and intake it based on foods, rather than just take it all in the easy way. “They require all the nutrients we need to survive, and it allows the First Order to have funding for other things, rather than wasting it on frivolous foods that will waste away too soon or not be used.”

It wasn’t the tastiest thing and he knew it, but he also knew that eating actual food was looked down upon. Some of the upper ranks didn’t care – they had worked hard for their position and the rewards that came with it. Admiral Brooks had been one such individual who was too soft, and he had been dealt with.

 

[cleopat]

The news that not even that lieutenant answered any of the messages riled Kylo. The complete lack of communication and total silence was unusual for the man in question, and Kylo just couldn’t wait to find out the reason why this happened. Or rather, how Tarkin discovered what was happening on Lothal.

He didn’t hesitate to follow Reveille, at her side instead of behind her. Everyone was rushing now as the orders were issued and the time-sensitive importance of their mission relied on their compliance. With how they were still rebuilding their ships and troopers, the First Order didn’t need a battle right now, but if negotiations fell south, then they would have no other choice.

“I’m curious as to how Governor Tarkin found out about this meeting,” he voiced his thoughts out loud, hoping to discover what Reveille’s theory on the matter was. She seemed to know Tarkin better, maybe she also know if anyone on Lothal was loyal to the governor.

~~

Lavinia wasn’t surprised by Armitage’s answer, but for some reason, it saddened her. He seemed like a man devoid of any joy in life, to the point where he won’t even indulge in a variety of foods. Just the simple meal replacements the First Order offered to all of the stormtroopers and many of the officers.

“You speak like a droid,” she couldn’t help but observe out loud. She walked toward the bed, taking out the strategically placed bobby pins in her bun and slipping them into her pocket. “Eating something other than those shakes and bars is okay to do, including for your health.” She sat on the edge of the bed, sinking slightly into the plush sheets. At least there was one nice thing about the room.

“Do you ever get tired of tasting that same texture and flavor for every meal of every day?” The supplements weren’t her first choice for food, but as it was standard in the First Order, she did eat them quite often. And while she was on her own, bouncing around from job to job, she was accustomed to pouches of powder she would add water to in order to get a meal.

Lavinia hated it. She missed having variety in her diet, but it was something she could live without.

 

[Lucyfer]

Kylo’s question seemed absolutely asinine to Reveille, but perhaps that was why she was in charge of the Security Bureau. She actually thought about these things. She wasn’t sure if her brother anticipated it, and just thought he’d be faster, or if he hadn’t. “Do you honestly believe a man like Tarkin does not have someone watching over his assets, Supreme Leader?”

He had known what she was doing with Serenno.

He knew what was going to go on with anything or anyone he had his eyes on. His family had been at this game for a long, long time. There was a reason they had their place in the galaxy, and that reason was not dumb luck.

The Bridge was unusually still, even given the hour, but heads turned as soon as the doors opened, “Take us into lightspeed, towards Absanz,” Reveille ordered, marching to the central post of the Bridge’s catwalk, “Hail Governor Tarkin once we’re in lightspeed.”

“Yes, Admiral,” one of the officers from below noted, the others getting to work on plotting the coordinates to get the ship moving.

~***~

Armitage rolled his eyes a bit at her statement, “And you sound like you’re getting soft,” he retorted at her mention of eating foods beyond shakes and bars. Perhaps she did take too much pleasure in being a lieutenant and able to have access to meals beyond those. Perhaps the habits of her life before remained. “It’s a matter of efficiency all around. They are cheaper to produce, and they are faster to eat. I see no reason to waste my time on other foods when these are the best choice.”

There were arguments against them, and the shakes and bars weren’t formulated for the needs of every species just yet, but for humans, there was no reason to avoid them. “I barely notice the texture or flavor.” It just went down and was digested.

That was it.

She took her hair down and moved to the bed, while Armitage himself moved back to the dresser, rather than invade her space. “It’s thinking like that which makes the Resistance weak. Frivolous expenditures for variety and pleasure – and no other reason. I suppose it also tends to be what makes the upper class on many planets weak, as well.”

Like here. “You have the luxury based on your rank to eat as you like from what the First Order offers, but why do you feel as if it is better for you to do so?” Clearly, that was the kind of argument she wanted to make – that there was some good reason not to live on the shakes and bars.

 

[cleopat]

Kylo felt a muscle near his eye twitch at the tone Reveille presented with her answer. It added nothing to the situation, a situation that her brother is causing. And he wouldn’t hesitate to remind her. “Your brother didn’t seem to believe that, Admiral.”

If he did, he may have thought twice before going to Lothal, but Kylo didn’t put it past him to believe he could get away with it without causing a potential scuffle. Now not only did General Hux had to deal with the ire of the Supreme Leader, but also from his sister, Admiral Hux, which may be punishment enough for him.

He crossed his arms across his chest, observing how the Bridge worked under Reveille’s command. She demanded authority in every aspect of her life, which he easily witness as she issued out a series of commands without hesitation. He could respect that, as long as her assertive personality wasn’t directed toward him.

Which it often was.

“Do you actually think that Tarkin will be willing to negotiate? He’s a man who will take whatever he wants.”

~~

Lavinia didn’t respond to Armitage’s statement of her getting soft. She imagined he would say that about nearly any form of emotional response. It was no wonder why some joked about how maybe their general was a droid.

She resisted a remark on his assumption that the Resistance spent their money on frivolity. If they did, then many of them certainly did not get that memo. They did what they could to build ships and weapons and recruit more people. They were surviving.

But she did share his disdain for the upper class and their tendencies to spend money on whatever pleased them. Lavinia recalled her mother owning an impressive collection of fine jewelry. Completely necessary (even if there was a dark jeweled broach she coveted after for many years).

As she leaned back some through the support of her hands pressed into the comforter, she considered the question carefully. “I don’t always eat such foods for every meal, but when I do, it helps me relax for just a few minutes. It gives me a moment to unwind and clear my mind before returning to work. Not that I don’t already put forth every effort into what I do, but I know you’re aware how stressful things can be.”

 

[Lucyfer]

Reveille did not know for certain if the man would be willing to negotiate. Given Kylo’s presence, she also wasn’t certain how much actual negotiation was going to occur. “All you would have to do would be to tell him there will be no deal with Lothal. You are the Supreme Leader. Tell him we back out of the deal, and no matter what my brother does, it is voided.”

Lothal did not seem worth it to Reveille. “Barring that, we’ll have to learn what he wants instead, or prepare for an actual battle.”

She would not claim they’d engaged in a true battle, but she was fairly certain this would be it. If Tarkin had forces enough to surrounded Absanz and worry Sienar Fleets, then that meant something. Given, though Sienar had plenty of ships, that didn’t mean they had pilots that could use them to fight.

They had the ships, not the crews. “Unless you see alternatives, of course, Supreme Leader.”

“Call is going through, Admiral.”

Reveille nodded. It would wait on Tarkin to answer, but she doubted he would be long.

~***~

Armitage was more than aware of how stressful things could be. He didn’t find pausing to eat all that relieving. Pausing to toss back a few shots, yes, but on those rare occasions, he made sure he was done for the night. It was more than a few stolen moments for relief. “I’ve certainly heard that rationale before, under the terminology ‘comfort food’.” Rani and Kos’tel’lanni talked about the benefits.

He was fairly certain that was how his sister got ensnared in such thoughts. “Unfortunately I do not find the same relief. If anything it gives me more time to consider what I’m not doing.” His mind never really turned off.

He knew the benefit of turning away for a few moments, but his constant need to be doing something made that all but impossible except in the few minutes before sleep overtook him. He was also aware that sometimes stepping away from a project could allow new insights. Usually, he tried to go to another when he hit a wall, rather than retire completely.

Even right then, just waiting, with nothing to do, was agitating. He should have brought work with him, but he hadn’t anticipated any delays. “My father used to talk of how people would take two hour dinner parties." He didn't think his father taught him much good, but he certainly taught him about all the wrong that was out there. "The Organas in particular were notorious for it,” before Alderaan met its end. He imagined Leia could be much the same. “I’ve never understood it. A few moments reprieve I cannot fault,” much. He did, a bit, “but the amount of time some people spend is excessive.” A waste of time, and a waste of resources.

 

[cleopat]

Kylo already knew he wouldn’t go with Reveille’s first plan. They needed Lothal. He needed Lothal. And he wouldn’t allow them to bend to what Tarkin wants. The man needed to learn he can’t have everything he wants. They would negotiate for now, and if Tarkin wasn’t feeling agreeable, then further action would be forced.

“We will try and negotiate with Governor Tarkin. For his sake, we better hope he’s willing to share.” Not just for his pride, but having Lothal in their grasp would assist in fortifying the First Order’s grasp on the galaxy. Lothal had been a place of constant attention during the Empire, and Kylo felt some pressure to have the planet under his control.

Kylo made no other noise after the call went through. He would step back and let Reveille begin the conversation, test the waters, and Kylo will interject if he felt it necessary. That is to say, he didn’t immediately threaten Tarkin to withdraw his ships.

~~

Armitage sounded very technical when he mentioned comfort food. She felt some pang in her chest at what she could only describe as some form of pity and sympathy for the man. What kind of life did he have growing up that made him so...robotic?

But if anything, she could relate to long, anxious thoughts over what she could be doing, what she should be doing. Insomnia plagued her some nights during her time in the First Order, although she imagined her agitated contemplations were of a far different matter than Hux’s.

Lavinia sat back up when Armitage began talking about his father and his childhood. She pinned him down as a deeply private man, and so for him to speak about it was slightly jarring. But it wasn’t about something completely foreign to her. “I’ve been forced to attend some of those dinner parties.” Her words were dry, as she recalled those events with less-than-fond memories. “I was always forced to attend them when I got older, and being forced to sit still and feigning interest in their blather about nothing that mattered was torturous. And the opulence they always displayed was ostentatious. It disgusted me.”

 

[Lucyfer]

‘Of course we can’t just take the simple route.’ Reveille didn’t say that aloud, but she did nod to indicate she was aware of Kylo Ren’s wishes. They would attempt to negotiate, and see how things proceeded from there.

As the image before her flickered, she moved her hands behind her back and straightened.

Governor Tarkin appeared in hologram, his posture almost a perfect imitation of her own, though he appeared a bit more relaxed in it, “Admiral Hux.”

“Governor Tarkin. My apologies for the delay in responding to your messages. I understand that you have taken to surrounding Absanz in light of an act of the First Order and Sienar Fleets.”

“That is correct,” he wouldn’t be denying it, after all, “As I recall, your Supreme Leader agreed to honor a truce for a week.”

“We have not broken it by going to Lothal. It is neither in the Seswenna Sector, nor is it Spira or Tepasi. Further, we have not approached Lothal with hostility. You know our intent to take over the galaxy and bring some semblance of order to it, Governor. We intend to assist Lothal by bringing new opportunities to it through Sienar Fleets, and rejuvenating it.”

Matja Tarkin’s gaze seemed to briefly take on a new glint, a new consideration, though his posture never changed, nor did his expression alter much, “Sienar Fleets is also, not technically, a part of the First Order. My actions with Absanz should not concern you, either. Sienar Fleets has committed crimes against the New Republic, which I, technically, remain a part of. If I wish to target them for that, it should be of no concern to you. However, I can overlook it, given they do not act on Lothal.”

Of course he would turn it. An issue not with the First Order and Tarkin, then, but with the New Republic and Sienar Fleets. Of course. Of course.

~***~

Armitage had suspected that Althea would know from experience, based on what she had divulged of her life before the First Order. He nodded, glad for some confirmation of her knowing its existence. He somehow thought it would make it easier to relate to his position and the reason he tended to abstain from such pleasures.

“I do not want the First Order to ever consider such things to be good. The sort of corruption that comes from such excess and waste is not what we strive to bring. While I am allowed certain luxuries from my position in the Order, I don’t want to prove to be an example of the corruption of power.”

He wanted to be steadfast, and seen as someone absent those faults. It may not be entirely true, but so long as he kept himself aware and practiced the habits, he would at least be less corrupt than most.

“Perhaps it seems…small to you, to try not to eat foods like these often, but it is a practice in diligence and setting an example for the Order to follow.”

He didn’t want to lose himself, either.

His father had been a hypocrite, after all. His father’s girth certainly hadn’t come from nutritional shakes.

 

[cleopat]

Of course he would turn it. An issue not with the First Order and Tarkin, then, but with the New Republic and Sienar Fleets. Of course. Of course.

A finger twitched, and Kylo envisioned wrapping his hand around Tarkin’s throat to slowly see the light leave his eyes. Of course he would attempt to find some loophole in the agreement so he could do what he wanted from the beginning.

He supposed he should’ve consulted with Admiral Hux before speaking up. Kylo shifted so that he may further be in the view for Tarkin, and nothing but contempt radiated from him. “Don’t forget that Sienar Fleets is our ally. Have it known if you wish to pursue this course of action, you would have declared war on the First Order as well.”

There was a slight pause, but Kylo continued before anyone could interrupt. “And yes, I agreed to honor a truce. I am not the one on Lothal, nor did I agree of this endeavor by my general.” And if this situation goes south, he will certainly let General Hux know exactly how unhappy he was.

~~

Lavinia had to wonder what Armitage’s life was like growing up for him to have harsh thoughts on something as seemingly small as the comforts of a warm meal. It was as if he never experience anything else but only eating what he did for purely fuel. Maybe this was partly why he could be so abrasive at times.

“I’m quite used to not eating this sort of food often.” Her life after Coruscant spent never in one place, which came with never knowing when she’ll find a small job for more credits. Yet it felt more free than in her mother’s clutches.

She quickly moved off of that topic, not wishing to divulge any more of that part of her past. “So, because the potential for excess and corruption is present, you wish to outright vilify it?” That potential was in nearly everything, but that simply wasn’t a way to live. Moderation was key, but she could almost hear his response. ‘Why waste resources with that?’ Still, she sought to understand his logic better, to understand him better.

 

[Lucyfer]

Admiral Hux absolutely wanted to palm her face when Kylo stepped forward and declared that Sienar Fleets was their ally. They weren’t. She had been careful in her own speech to separate them from the First Order, to indicate them as a different entity.

Tarkin just looked amused with Kylo’s statement, “No, they aren’t,” he pointed it out bluntly, “At least, Darrin Sienar has told me numerous times he is not taking sides in this war, and Sienar Fleets has sold me plenty of TIEs. I admit, I’m not a huge fan of the new style, but they’re cheap."

Kylo was trying to throw his General under the starship. “If this is against your wishes, Supreme Leader, then stop your General, and this does not have to go any further.” That was, after all, what Matja wanted. He didn’t really care how he got it, whether by threatening Sienar Fleets or demanding it of the First Order.

Which, Reveille knew, was not what Kylo Ren wanted to do. However, recollection of what happened at the café kept her silent. Matja wouldn’t care for what she had to say now with Kylo Ren in sight.

~***~

Armitage arched a brow at the phrasing, but answered, “Yes.” There was no need for it. “We have come a long way in our understanding of nutrition. We could feed the entire galaxy if we wanted, simply, and cheaply, but rather than do that, the galaxy vilifies nutrient shakes and bars and claims them as disgusting, while exalting variety of food, and all sorts of unhealthy things, while allowing planets to starve if they happen to have a bad season or a natural disaster.”

It was disgusting.

“If instead this sort of excess and variety were vilified, if survival were highlighted over luxury, then the wider galaxy may come to make more of these and distribute them more fairly. If luxury were vilified instead of being a desire of the masses – foolish as they are,” they’d never have it, not the vast majority of them, “then it would be easier to do what’s necessary without having to fight through these negative conceptions of what one should strive for. People will ignore the well-being of others just to get their ridiculously priced iced and flavored caf, because it’s a comfort in their so stressful lives.”

Until the galaxy was in order, there could be no time to spare for comforts such as that. Flavor, variety, these were secondary concerns when people were starving and rotting away. The nutrient shakes and bars weren’t disgusting, anyways – people needed to stop spreading that rumor.

It was a healthy alternative. “Just imagine if excess and variety were vilified in the galaxy. Imagine how that would change things, Lieutenant.”

 

[cleopat]

Kylo’s teeth grounded against each other as he was forced to hold his anger and frustration back. Tarkin was right, they weren’t allies, which in turn made him wonder, then why protect them? Why protect a planet who obviously did not wish to pick a side? Guaranteed protection only came from those who pledged their loyalty to him. Darrin did not.

General Hux still could not be reached, and if Tarkin received word of this, humiliation would soon follow. If Kylo could manage to reach the general, would he tell the man to back off of the Lothal plans? Most likely not. And whoever was Tarkin’s little spy on Lothal would be sure to keep the governor up-to-date on anything new that happens.

If only they could somehow get a hold of someone on that damned planet, tell them to find Tarkin’s friend and eliminate him, consequences be damned. “Surely we can come to some other arrangement, governor?” He spared a fleeting glance in Reveille’s direction. She had a silver tongue. Surely she could say something that Tarkin will like to hear.

“As the admiral have already stated, I have not broken our truce. Lothal was not part of the agreement, nor is General Hux there with any ill intention. Should you choose to attack Absanz on behalf of the New Republic, then I will assume you have already made a decision regarding our offer.”

~~

“Do you truly think survival will ever be highlighted over luxuries and comfort? You may try and enforce it, write it into law, but the people will never accept that.” Lavinia leaned forward, her elbows resting on her knees. “I agree that selfishness can be devastating, and the cheaper alternative foods should be used in instances of potential famine.”

To her, it was clear they wouldn’t agree on this issue. Armitage was firm in his beliefs from what she could only assume was a less-than-ideal childhood and indoctrination into the man he was today. “And if you ban these luxuries and comforts, people will find other ways to dismiss the well-being of others, because that’s just human nature.” Her thoughts may border on the pessimistic side, but only in rare circumstances did someone prove her wrong. Those in the Resistance did exactly that.

“I think it would only create a blackmarket for even more luxury goods. Not only that, but I think it may anger a lot of people, and unhappy people lead to civil unrest.” Would it tick him off if she ordered a decadent dessert for the both of them? Maybe so, maybe borderline petty, but the man, or maybe droid, needed to sort out his priorities better. Surely there’s more to focus on than the variety of food the galaxy had to offer?

 

[Lucyfer]

‘You’re the one who chose to step up, idiot.’ Reveille saw Kylo’s look, but her mouth remained closed, at the moment. To speak up would be the start of overriding his authority – and being silenced by Governor Tarkin – on her own damn ship.

She wasn’t going to deal with that right then.

Matja’s gaze remained even, “You would be correct, if this goes through, I will have chosen a side, for better or worse.” He wouldn’t even have the gall to deny Kylo’s accusation. His words were a dare. His words were a promise. Lothal would be a turning point for Matja – to the Resistance, to the New Republic, to put him squarely against the First Order, and further secure Lothal in his own grasp.

He would be Lothal’s savior from the First Order.

Perhaps Governor Pandion would disagree, but Governor Pandion was a weasel who needed to be put back in line, anyways. “I have stated what I wanted quite plainly, Supreme Leader.”

“Governor, with all due respect, I suspect there’s more you want than a backwater planet like Lothal.” Reveille tried.

He shrugged, “And what would it matter if I did? You can promise me nothing, admiral.” Reveille ground her teeth. As suspected, as soon as Kylo came into the picture, he stopped caring. “Besides, did you not just make it clear the First Order intends to take over the galaxy? Which, do not get me wrong, under the right circumstances I would be willing to support such a thing…so far, however, your move to Lothal has shown a certain…desperation, and lack of coordination. Much as this entire conversation seems to be revealing a rather serious lack of coordination and cooperation.”

Which meant easy picking’s for him, really.

~***~

Armitage snorted, “Ban them? No, I would not do that,” he knew the consequences of that, “There is a difference between banning something and vilifying it.”

There would still be those who ate to excess, still be those who wanted the variety, “Peer pressure is a rather powerful influence when wielded, Lieutenant. You’ll notice plenty of the ships in the First Order offer luxury foods, and you’ll notice the majority of those who choose to eat it are looked down upon within the Order.”

Reveille had stopped giving a fuck some time ago, as did a few others, but the stigma was there. Even he would eat some, but usually he kept it to his own quarters when he did.

“Banning such things would make it forbidden. Taboo. People chase these things. Making instead be unpopular, frowned upon, and something to mock a person for would work far better. If people are assumed to be weak or lacking in a favored trait, because they indulge in such things, then they are less likely to do so.” Time would change things. Perhaps there would even come a time when the villification of it could be lessened...but that wasn't for a while.