Edge of Glory

[Syrenia Renkl]

"I can show up in my uniform, Tatiana!"

The older Renkl sister glared at the younger sibling. "Don't make me Moff Renkl you, Syrenia! It's a huge event; and you're as much nobility as military!!"

"Don't make me Captain Renkl you, damn it!"

The two brunettes stared at each other, as if they were about to get at each other's throats. Although they were alone in the large patio, the atmosphere was heavy.

Tatiana eventually broke the standstill and walked up to her troublesome sibling, not caring that even with heels, Syrenia was still a tad taller than her. It had never fazed the Moff whose tag name had been the Kinslayer since her early days in the Navy during the civil war.

"What now? You going to scold me some more, Moff Shorty?"

The Moff suddenly punched her sister. Syrenia growled and stared at her before retaliating, her sister unable to fully avoid the blow.

Both Renkls then stared at each other in shock; before suddenly erupting in laughter at the same time.

"You're a brat," Tatiana spat.

"You're a mean bitch," Syrenia retorted, although both of them were grinning at this point.

Certain things changed; but harsh sisterly love was still a Renkl trait; even though they were both adults and had climbed up the imperial ladder.

"Alright, you said you have this amazing fashion designer that shouldn't turn me into some ostentatious meringue. Let's meet her."

Tatiana tucked a wild strand of hair behind her ear, uncaring that a bruise was forming on her cheekbone.

As for Syrenia, she tried to tame her short brown curls with little results. She smoothed her slant grey uniform, not giving a thought about the black eye forming on the left side of her otherwise pretty face. It wasn't the first one, nor the last one she got in her family life or her career. As she straightened her posture, she heard the very subtle whirring of her left shoulder and elbow, a permanent reminder of some older battle wounds.

Tatiana went to press a button on the wall terminal, asking for their guest to come in.

[Rachael Nystrom]

Rachael Nystrom, assistant to the fabulous Yessica Fantoun - a high level fashion designer for Romanage's, an expensive, chic, clothing label - waited patiently with her mentor. They were both instructed to wait patiently as Moff Renkl spoke with her sister about this last minute arrangement. Rachael thought this extremely odd since the fitting was booked weeks ago, but who was she to argue? The wealthy and powerful often had bizarre requests. One of the last rones was creating a dress out of cargo netting as a statement against animal cruelty.

The credits required to create the strapless dress based on all the hours put in to sewing up every damn square with multicolored vinyl was more than Rachael's salary in a year. It was sickening because that money would have been better suited as a donation to actually fund relief efforts.

She spared a glance at her mentor. Yessica was busy tapping at her datapad, adjusting options that Captain Renkl would prefer. Her blonde hair was perfect, every strand pulled together tightly in an overlapping braid that started at the side and met at the back of her head, weaved together into a low hanging singular one. The dress worn was by her own design - dark blue and black patterned from shoulder to thigh with a mid slit, with see through fabric that covered part way down either arm. She looked exquisite where Rachael looked like an unrefined mess.

Dark hair was tied back haphazardly and what was loose hung wildly around Rachael's face. Her grey blouse was lightly tucked into black slacks, the first two buttons of the blouse opened to show off the gold necklace around her neck with a small trinket displayed of two trapezoids facing away from the center. Yessica always told Rachael that her personal fashion sense was atrocious but the girl's natural talent to create art from clothing onto others was a gift. Rachael was a complete conundrum to the veteran designer.

Hazel eyes widened at the door in hearing muffled yelling, pounding, and then laughter. Rachael's eyes squinted at her mentor, who was clearly unfazed by the incident by still tapping away. She licked her lips and started chewing on the inside of her cheek, waiting and keeping questions to herself when the doors finally swooshed opened.

She quietly yelped, biting too hard on her cheek with surprise. Yessica rose gracefully, smiling towards Moff Renkl as if nothing strange at all happened behind these closed doors.

"Thank you so much for the invitation, Moff Renkl!" Yessica's fluid voice hit all the right notes for pleasantries, but was entirely fake. "Romanage Industries was delighted to hear from you again."

Rachael darted her head past the doors to see if the coast was really cleared because she swore she heard a fight here! She looked to Moff Renkl to Yessica to Captain Renkl, really scrutinizing the later because one of her cheeks were red - and not from blush.

[Syrenia Renkl]

Syrenia could have exquisite manners; but she never had the political and aristocratic flare her sister could retain while handling all sorts of tasks, from fashion frivolities to killing an enemy. She was fine with that though. She just really wished she didn't have to put up with this whole mess. She understood the general purpose of it; but she would still be fine showing up in her dress uniform, featuring all the commendations earned in her still young career. And as military she had the rightful excuse to always remain in uniform when she chose to.

She looked at the woman who first entered, and she already wanted to strangle her. The whole dressed perfectly with ostentatious neatness made her skin crawl. She trusted Tatiana in her pick, but boy, she bet it was going to be painful. She was happy to let Tatiana greet the woman with required fuss.

In the meantime, Syrenia peeked at the second woman, who seemed to wonder what she was walking into. The look on her face when she saw her was telling. Syrenia reached a hand to her face, slightly wincing at the tender flesh where her black eye must be forming. She grinned and shrugged before refocusing on that other brunette. She looked she was either fresh from a flea market or a war zone. It was amusing to the military, and somewhat relaxing.

While Tatiana discussed with Yessica, Syrenia beckoned the other woman closer, so she would be inside the room. Afterwards, she closed the large doors behind them. Smiling to the other brunette, she introduced herself.

"Captain Syrenia Renkl." She extended a hand. "Don't mind the black eye. Moff Renkl always has to wrangle me into putting up with frills and lace or whatever is currently in fashion."

[Rachael Nystrom]

Rachael scrunched her nose because she thought her eyesight went wonky seeing the captain gestured for her to enter. She even thrust a finger up to point at herself just to confirm. The amused look on the younger Renkl's face made her hustle through the doorway, slightly yelp in surprise as the doors began to closed, and immediately chuckled quietly at her antics. She rolled her lips inward and smoothed out her clothing in an attempt to regain her composure.

Yessica and Moff Renkl were enjoying each other's company, laughing and chatting up details about the upcoming social event. Which meant she was off flying solo with entertaining the captain. At least she was smiling towards her and it didn't appear fake. That was refreshing.

She awkwardly crossed the distance and shot her arm out so they could shake hands. "RchaelNystrom! Reallyhappytomeetyouandyourblackeye!"

Her eyes squinted, lips pressed together tightly as heat warmed her cheeks utterly embarrassed that her nerves came out.

"Heh." She chuckled and let her hand drop loosely, letting it swing back and forth as she attempted to regroup. "So ... no frills or lace. Unless that works with your body. That's, ya know, what I do. In style or not, I like making sure the dress works for you no matter how long it takes."

She really hoped that this disastrous first impression didn't destroy this opportunity for her internship! Not many beings in her position had the chance to design a dress for a high ranking Imperial.

[Syrenia Renkl]

That brunette was one hell of a spaz. Syrenia had a hard time wrapping her mind around the way she had managed to work with that walking annoyance that was impeccable Yessica. At least that one was all over her sister. It was pathetic to think that this fashion designer could even think one moment she could wrap Tatiana around her finger. The younger Renkl guessed it was why her sister was damn good at politics, while she had never wandered away from military. Armed forces was her territory; but pleasantries made her gag.

She quirked a brow as she accepted the handshake, providing a firm one as she listened to the excited and way too endearing greetings from this Nystrom woman. She would go insane with a soldier like that on the field; but there was something unexpectedly charming about this newcomer. "Well, me and my black eye are happy to meet you as well," she replied in a very tongue-in-cheek way.

"I'll be clear. I'd rather just wear my dress uniform. But even I have to appease the powers that be. So I need something that is not a bloody uniform."

She leaned closer to the other brunette. "If you have the tuxedo of the century to suggest, I'll take it over any dress or skirt you can come up with."

Taking a step back, she canted her head to the side, and stared at Rachael. "Impress me," she dared Nystrom.

[Rachael Nystrom]

"Er..." she chuckled awkwardly as her hand retracts.

A tiny nervous bubble of laughter was choked down before Rachael pointing a finger at the leisurely swollen tissue that was forming around the captain's eye. "You sure... you don't ...? You know what. Never mind. Tell me what you want and we'll start there."

She listened empathically, wanting to understand how the younger Renkl wanted to be presented. She definitely got the impression that Renkl the Moff was pulling strings here, AKA the powers that be, and by the sounds of things moments ago, the Moff was not pulling the punches!

"Okay. No frills, laces, and ruffles to drive you nuts." She nods. "Got it."

Racheal took a step back and her posture immediately transformed from the clumsy, nervous, seamstress, to a confident tradeswoman with a keen eye for fashion.

"Tuxedo. No. Not with your figure."

Her nose crinkled in thought while walking around the captain to take in every curve, length of arms and legs, her bust size with professionalism.

"I'm thinking more ... three piece suit."

She tore her eyes from the younger Renkl's figure so their eyes met, and this time the injured eye was less distracting. "It's professional. Also you want a uniform and that's pretty close as you can get without it being one. And I can play with different designs and colors to make it sleek and commanding. Basically you get what you want and appease the uppity upper ups. What do you think?"

[Syrenia Renkl]

Syrenia slightly narrowed her eyes - despite the pain caused by the swelling and bruising - at Rachael when she almost said something about her inconsequential injury. Her expression returned back to neutral when the fashion girl let the matter drop. The Renkl way of handling things and showing tough, if not brutal love among sisters, wasn't for an outsider to discuss. Tatiana and her might not always see eye to eye; but Syrenia trusted her older sibling with her life, and would defend her life with her own, for both professional and personal reasons. Some days it pained her that Tatiana's twin had wandered off more than fifteen years ago. All Renkls had undying loyalty to the Galactic Empire; but Natalia had chosen her own path, off the beaten tracks, while Tatiana and Syrenia served in official capacities.

Coaxing herself before she risked dwelling deeper into her ruminations, the Captain returned her attention to the brunette before her. She was away from duty for a reason, a frivolous but political one.

Hopefully that Nystrom girl knew what the hell she was doing.

Syrenia stood still; waiting for the fashion professional to come up with suggestions, which would hopefully take her comments and preferences into account.

She quirked a brow at the mention of lack of tuxedos in her upcoming options; but kept her mouth shut for the time being. After all, she had to trust the professional. At least Yessica was still discussing her sister's outfit, which was better for her, for she bet she'd strangle the proper designer before she could have spit two sentences out.

When her eyes met Rachael's, she was pleasantly surprised by the suggestion of a three piece suit. That was a new one to her; but she loved the idea. Her lips slightly curved upwards and she subtly took a half-step forward.

"You have my full attention, Miss Nystrom," she replied. This sounded like the perfect compromise

"I would normally chose black and blue shades; but I am open to suggestions, as long as we stray away from yellow and orange."

[Rachael Nystrom]

With the way Syrenia said full attention, it made her feel like some little cadet that received a commendation by her commanding officer. Felt rather nice and it made her nerves settle a little. Her mask slipped away a little, allowing her to speak a little more freely, jokingly.

Rachael's face was heavy with disgust at those last two color choices. "Why the hell would I dress you in that? You're not some fuzzy porg."

She rolled her eyes and went to work on the datapad, holding it out lengthwise. "But seriously tho. Stand there and don't move as I take your measurements."

The datapad's camera honed in on the captain and worked on uploading her basic measurements starting from the boots. "I'll have to take exact measurements to confirm with what's here, but at least you'll get an idea. And.... astral. I think you'll like this."

She tapped excitedly, customizing colors, buttons, lengths, and fabric choices. She kept the fabric in a save folder marked 'Bruised Captain' for later to sift through once the color palates were agreed upon.

"Here." Rachael turned the pad around for Syrenia. "What'cha think (https://ae01.alicdn.com/kf/HTB14.YLajLuK1Rjy0Fhq6xpdFXap/Women-Three-Piece-Set-Trouser-Suits-Office-Women-Blazer-Vest-Trouser-Ladies-3-Piece-Pants-Suit.jpg)?"

She had chosen black with Imperial inspired gold buttons for the jacket. The vest's were tamer, just a shade darker to accentuate how the fabric was cut. The shirt underneath was white, trimmed with black, the collar snug and imitating an officer's.

[Syrenia Renkl]

The look on Rachael's face at the mention of yellow and orange, and the comparison with a porg, brought an amused grin on Syrenia's lips. She had a sense of humor, and this was refreshing.

"Anyone thinking of me as a fuzzy porg would likely end with more than a black eye, even if it was my sister."

Tatiana on cue interrupted her exchange with Yessica. "The day I call you a porg I will be senile," she snapped. Both sisters glared at each other but smirked in amusement.

As Syrenia returned her attention upon Rachael, she stood in perfect stillness, her years in the military speaking for themselves, while her measurements were taken. She nodded at the mention that more precise ones would have to be taken care of later.

She grew curious as the fashion professional seemed quite excited as she worked on some design on her datapad. Watching her work was a compelling view to the Captain. The quirky klutz disappeared as the creative frenzy took over. It was quite a dichotomy, which she found even more endearing. There was no pretense or obnoxious charade while Rachael worked. She was just doing it, instead of rambling about it.

When the datapad was handed to her so she could look at the woman's suggestion, she closed the distance between them and took a close look at it. That was a very welcome contrast to frills and other elaborate outfits that had driven her crazy since her childhood.

"Oh," was all she said for a moment, reviewing it as an idea sparked in her mind. Not wanting to have Tatiana potentially argue over it, she discreetly leaned to whisper into Rachael's ear.

"Would it be possible to adjust the breast pocket to display my rank bars and decorations, at least the rank?"

She wouldn't be able to wear her uniform, but if she could make the outfit as close to one as possible, she would be happy.

[Rachael Nystrom]

These two sisters were crazy with snide remarks that were supposed to be sibling banter? If it was all fighting with fists and words, these instances made her happy she was an only child.

The captain's silence was making her nervous. She did take it as a good sign that nothing was said right away - she had the feeling if the design was miserable Renkl would have immediately stated that outright. Her left foot began to tap, nerves taking over, and sped up when Renkl invaded her personal space and spoke in her ear.

Her face was beat red, eyes wide as saucers and lips pulled inward to keep the gasp contained. She worked her mouth and finally felt confident no odd squeaks would come out of her mouth, but she did have to clear her throat to make sure her voice remained strong.

"Sure ..." her voice cracked ever so slightly. "I mean, sure!"

She lowered her voice, wishing her nerves weren't so heightened. "I mean ... sure." She said with a forced deeper, confident tone.

Refocusing on the screen instead of the captain hovering over her shoulder, feeling her breath against her neck, she expanded the suit jacket and outlined the breast pocket. She removed the current design and pulled up the image of Renkl in uniform that she just took. She copied the rank bars and the decorations, adding it to the suit design. "I might have to narrow the lapels, but I think I can get it all in there."

[Syrenia Renkl]

Syrenia didn't normally like spazzy. It easily got on her nerves; but Nystrom had this flustered and cute blend that offered an agreeable counterpoint to her professional skills. The fact she was considering such things surprised the Captain. The last thing she had wanted was to be present for this frill and fashion horror; but Nystrom was making it almost palatable.

While the younger Renkl knew how to enjoy her time off, she wasn't the kind to really have wandering eyes. And here she was, unable no to find Nystrom quite easy and even really nice on the eye. She was no celibate individual; but she didn't either have the voracious appetites that characterized her older sister. Syrenia had little interest in flings, and either fellow military didn't catch her eye, or the aristocrats hovering around the Renkl family drove her insane. There were reasons she wasn't in the military. While she had no interest in running away as her sister Natalia had, she was a far cry from the socialite and political animal Tatiana could be.

Nystrom's reaction made Syrenia stand quite close all the time she was working on adjusting the design per her request.

"Thank you," she whispered into the other brunette's ear, before returning her attention to what she was doing. She appreciated the woman's willingness to work with her to make the whole outfit as close to a dress uniform as possible.

"I can let you borrow the lapels later this week, before I leave for a few days."

She had agreed to personally take some new volunteers who supported the formal military of the planet, on a field trip on the other side of the planet. So she would be fine without her insignia and assorted bars for that time.

"Would you be free to come get them at the Kertoz Garrison?"

[Rachael Nystrom]

Rachael had no idea if Renkl was messing with her or was just trying to be discreet so her older sister wouldn't listen in on their conversation. Maybe it was a bit of both? All she knew is that the whispered thank you made her neck hairs stand up from the shiver it elicited.

"Is everything alright over there?" Yessica said in that demanding tone. She was certain her protege was doing fine since the captain hadn't barked at her, but the squeaks and muttering conversation made her a tad concerned.

"Totally fine, Ms. Fantoun! Just working on some details for the captain!" she said with forced confidence. "Almost done too!"

She pulled up her schedule to see when she was free. "I'm sure I can make some time for you."

Then her eyes went wide once again, her head snapping towards the captain. Thankfully her surprise overwhelmed her because their faces were mere inches away. "The garrison?! I... I don't have any kinda clearance for something like that."

[Syrenia Renkl]

When Yessica interrupted, Syrenia glared at her, not caring what Tatiana might think of her hostility. Her older sister actually seemed more surprised than anything else about her being so close to Nystrom. The Captain even wondered whether it was a grimmer of amusement and curiosity she saw in the Moff's eyes.

Whatever it was, Tatiana seemed fine with her younger sister not throwing further fits about the whole outfit affair.

She grinned when Nystrom reassured the senior fashion designer; and was glad when the insufferable woman returned her focus upon the older Renkl. The less she had to deal with her, the better it was for Syrenia.

The moment Nystrom looked at her in shock, her face way too close for comfort, eliciting unexpected reactions within Syrenia, the Captain was glad the other brunette's surprised question prevented her mind from wandering.

She took a slight step back, though still fairly close to the fashion designer. "I am confident that as Head of Planetary Security Forces, I can arrange clearance for you."

[Rachael Nystrom]

In the time that it took Rachael to process what the captain had said, she stared blankly at Renkl's face as if her brain switched off for a few seconds. When it finally triggered realization and how foolish she was not to realize Renkl could just give her temporary clearance, she laughed nervously, looking away in complete embarrassment.

"Oh ... I knew that too!" She fought off her body wanting to jerk in frustration but Yessica's voice caused her to stiffen.

"Captain Renkl? Are you sure everything is all right back there? I assure you that my intern is quite capable despite her sudden outburst ..." The lead designer's eyes were burning with disappointment at Rachael.

Racheal could feel Yessica's gaze disintegrating a hole in the back of her head. She clamped her mouth shut and worked on highlighting times that she could meet with the captain, hoping that Renkl wasn't as livid as her boss was.

[Syrenia Renkl]

"Did I suddenly get a second black eye, Miss Nystrom?"

Syrenia couldn't help jesting when the fashion designer gave her the blank stare of doom, before realizing who she was. She had seen similar looks on cadets' faces when she had handed their asses to them during training.

"Uh uh," she replied with a wink.

When Yessica interrupted them, and said unwarranted things about Nystrom, Syrenia gave her the most Renkl stare possible, as if the other woman was nothing but an insect she merely tolerated.

"Miss Nystrom has been a gem. Definitely the best fashion designer I ever got to work with. You made a stellar choice in bringing her with you."

Syrenia was certain of the pointed look her sister gave her this time.

Returning her attention to the other brunette, she smiled.

"Would you be able to take my measurements when you come to the garrison then? So you might be able to have everything you need to work."

[Rachael Nystrom]

"Oh!" Yessica' surprise was evident because she was certain Rachael's unique personality had annoyed other affluent clients. The woman was gifted and that's what saved her with her verbal gaffs, but never had she been complemented so wonderfully.

She shared a look with the Moff who appeared confused as well by her sister's response before returning her focus to the captain. "I'm delighted to hear that and will make sure she is properly rewarded for pleasing you, Captain Renkl."

For the first time since Rachael worked with Yessica, the woman gave her a proud smile. Rachael wondered if she were sleeping because this whole afternoon had to be a dream where she somehow didn't embarrass herself in front of Imperial dignitaries. In fact, the playful teasing from the captain showed that her aloofness and laughing at a moments notice was actually welcomed. She fought the urge to pinch herself to make sure this was reality.

"Uh ... yeah. I can do that too while I'm there. That way I don't waste too much of your time, Captain." She handed her datapad to Renkl and pointed out her calendar for the next two weeks. "Just let me know what works for you."

[Syrenia Renkl]

Syrenia was relieved that the insufferable Yessica had only one option and took it, which was to admit that Rachael was talented and doing well. The younger Renkl wasn't one to offer praise when it wasn't justified. She shared criticism as much as compliments when individuals had earned it, and the intern had gone above and beyond when it came to fashion services.

"See that you do. I am looking forward to my outfit for this upcoming event, and my sister will confirm it is an utmost rarity."

Tatiana gave her a puzzled look, but it was brief and had disappeared by the time Yessica looked back at the Moff.

Afterwards, she returned her attention to Nystrom and she was surprised by the look on the other brunette's face, though she found it quite endearing.

"I appreciate it," she replied when taking the datapad. She looked through the calendar and settled for a convenient time.

"I will see you then. I entered the info for the garrison. Have a good day."

Without further ado, she bid goodbye to her sister and Yessica as well for duty awaited.

****

Kertoz Garrison, Six Days Later.

Syrenia had done her best to avoid her sister since the tailoring session. Tatiana had left her a message reminding her she had to have a plus one for the reception, and offered a list of potential candidates. It irked the Captain for her sister didn't care whether she had one or not. But it seemed that as the younger sister, she was supposed to abide. She understood in a way, because while her own personal life wasn't that much of a big deal to the public eye, Tatiana as a Moff was much more visible, and refusing to entertain rumors had been a source of power.

She just knew she wanted none of the candidates, regardless of how rich, powerful, or pleasing to the eye they were.

There might be only one person she would consider; but she was baffled enough about how she had been thinking about said person in the last few days. It wasn't some grand romantic crush from one of the holo-movies she used to watch, she thought; but rather a genuine interest in getting to know her better. And really, being Captain Renkl's plus one at some big reception was a far cry from it, she thought.

Still cursing herself for her ruminations, her assistant appeared in her office, announcing that the object of her thoughts had just been handed her visitor pass and was on her way to see her. Syrenia acknowledged it, and once alone again for a short time, she finished to organize the different reports she had been reviewing, so she would be able to give her full attention to Rachael Nystrom.

[Rachael Nystrom]

Rachael said absolutely nothing because she wasn't used to people standing up for her and handing out compliments, which was a rarity for the captain as admitted. She wasn't exactly meek, but Rachael's awkwardness made it difficult for people to take her seriously and was grateful that the hard ass Yessica saw through that and accepted her as an intern on talent alone. It was why she wouldn't rock the ship with her, but an influential Imperial family can do it as much as they wanted!

When she took the datapad back, Rachael blinked several times to bring reality into focus and nodded. "Yeah. See you there, Captain."

Yessica looked stunned but redoubled her efforts with Tatiana's needs for the function as her intern plopped down on a nearby chair, curled her legs on the comfy cushion, and worked on her schedule - occasionally glancing at the doors where Renkl departed, leaving Rachae in a daze.

***

She affixed the visitor bar on her jacket lapel with clear instructions that it was never to be taken off. It would be scanned if required as it was programed with Captain Renkl's approval code, but it did allow a small measure of free movement from the front gates, Renkl's building checkpoint, any fresher along the way that was used for grunts, and Renkl's office. Rachael took it all in as she walked along the designated route - transports went through with boisterous soldiers, an AT-AT stomped around the perimeter with Stormtroopers galore marching in unison for drills. For a civilian like her, it was an impressive and daunting sight. She snugly held the datapad at her chest, which was scanned and approved at check-in, and ducked through the main entrance she was ordered to go through, overwhelmed with everything.

As no one pulled any weapons out or yelled at her, Rachael breathed evenly despite her rapidly beating heart. She was half expecting her memory would fail and she'd enter through the wrong door and cause an embarrassing scene where Captain Renkl would have to save her ass. So far, she was doing good!

With a quick flash of her visitor bar, Rachael was marked down in the system as Renkl's visitor and the Sargent behind the desk was cordial in refreshing her memory of where the captain's office was located. It was appreciated since everything looked the same inside these buildings with the grey and black designs, which she knew was to intimidate everyone as well as project unity.

So left... then a right... another right ... Aha! Yay! Found it!

Yes it was a personal victory that Rachael didn't get lost and waved at Renkl's assistant on approach.

"Hello!" She winced because that sounded too cheery for military people. "Uh ... I'm Rachael Nystrom. I've an appointment with Captain Renkl."

[Syrenia Renkl]

Lieutenant Pionsar, who currently worked as Captain Renkl's assistant, due to her pregnancy, smiled back to the visitor. Syrenia had the habit of appointing military personnel who weren't fit for field action due to illness, disability, or pregnancy, as her assistants. While it often required her to do some extra training due to the turnover that could happen, she thought it was a good way to thank them for their services and support all who served.

"Hello, Miss Nystrom. The Captain was informed of your arrival. If you'll please follow me."

The Lieutenant got to her feet and led the visitor to the Captain's office. After knocking and opening the door, she inquired whether either of them wanted beverages of any kind.

"Some tea would be great, thank you Lieutenant," Syrenia replied after having gestured for the fashion designer to speak up first.

Her assistant disappeared for a moment.

Syrenia smiled warmly to Nystrom, glad she had found her way with ease given the normal amount of time it had taken her to make it to her office. That was also why Syrenia always asked to be told when visitors showed up at the entrance gates, because it gave her enough time to wrap most things up before a meeting.

"Thank you for making time for me, Miss Nystrom. I appreciate it."

Given the upcoming event that likely required much of Yessica's time, and by extension her intern's too, the Captain was glad scheduling had worked out well.

"Would you rather take my measurements now or later?"

She didn't want to just offer a seat to Nystrom if she'd rather take care of that out of the way first. It'd be silly.

[Rachael Nystrom]

Rachael smiled at Pionsar, fighting back a ton of questions to ask the obviously pregnant woman - how many weeks, do you know the sex, is the baby kicking the hell out of your insides. Those were all rude and inappropriate since she didn't know the women! So she behaved and settled with a warm happy feeling that she would see the captain soon. Which, why would that make her warm and happy? The hell?!

"Um, what?" Rachael had been on autopilot when following the lieutenant and missed the question about drinks.

"Did you want something to drink?" Pionsar patiently repeated.

She had no idea if Renkl asked for anything, so asking for the same thing could go bad or really bad. What if she ordered nothing? She'd look like an idiot. And if Renkl did, what if she hated it. So there was only one safe option to go with.

"Water please and thank you."

It was a good response because the captain hadn't even said anything yet!

Whew. Social faux pas averted.

With her mouth scrunched together in curiosity a she looked around Renkl's office, she forced herself to relax and give the captain a smile that reached her eyes. "Oh it's no big deal. I'm glad this all managed to work out."

She pulled out her datapad and tape measurer. "How about the measurements so we can leave the rest of the meeting to chat about the design and any questions you might have?"

[Syrenia Renkl]

Syrenia's attention didn't wander off of Nystrom, watching her interact with Pionsar, who had been one of the best assistants she had in the past few years. As much as the pregnant woman was a remarkable field element, she also excelled at desk duties. She could even see that instruction would be a strong suit with her extensive patience and clear mind.

For now, the other woman left to retrieve the requested drinks.

The younger Renkl didn't forget what had been looming in her mind about the upcoming event. She was a force to reckon with, as most would agree; but she genuinely didn't know whether she'd dare ask the fashion designer to be her plus one for the gala. She wasn't shy per se; but she spent more time devoted to her career than attending to matters of the heart, even though she had appetites like most people.

She smiled when she watched Nystrom relax a bit at last.

"Alright, then."

She got to her feet with no hesitation, right on cue when the Lieutenant returned with tea for Renkl and water for Nystrom.

"Thank you, Lieutenant."

Pionsar took her leave on cue, closing the door behind her.

The Captain began to unbutton her uniform's jacket.

"I know this will come off for measurements; what else?"

She asked that matter of fact, knowing that every designer had their specifics, though most of the time they wanted clothing down to undergarments for proper measurements. At least, modesty wasn't an issue for Renkl, given her years spent in the military.

[Rachael Nystrom]

Rachael reached out with both hands to take the glass of water and beamed earnestly. "Thank you!"

Yes she was exuding a lot more energy then what was necessary, but that was how her nerves came out. Much the same when she was introduced to the captain - a ball of nervous energy that was on the verge of exploding at a moments notice. So that meant drinking the nice cold water that Pionsar gave her. She did attempt to drink it a bit more smoothly instead of gulping it down.

But then she choked. Not at Renkl taking her jacket off, just that she was ready to take off more so quickly! Most of her clients were talky talky and drinky drinky before stripping. Then again, she was dealing with a member of the Imperial Army. They were quick to get right now to business.

Geesh.

She tapped at her chest and smiled apologetically. "Wrong pipe."

She cleared her throat and offered Renkl a choice, trying to convince herself seeing the captain in next to nothing wasn't making her nervous. She was a professional clothing designer (in training) and wouldn't objectify her client. "Most accurate measurements would be down to your undergarments. Otherwise I can work with what you're most comfortable with. Can even look at the sizes on your uniform to replicate it."

[Syrenia Renkl]

Syrenia didn't know what to make of finding Nystrom so refreshing and cute. That was annoying to the Captain who had gone into the habit of being career-focused. It wasn't that she disliked the idea of dating, but most of her numerous prospects were just not to her liking. And then the fashion designer barged in and she was feeling like a teenager again. It was frustrating, really.

As she put her jacket on the back of her chair, she caught how the other brunette was choking. Without thinking twice, she had already covered distance between them, standing next to her chair, about to ask if she was okay.

"Oh, you had me worried for a moment," she replied with a slightly concerned smile when the other woman said it was just "the wrong pipe."

Without thinking, she gently squeezed Nystrom's shoulder and took a few steps back.

"Undergarments it is then," she replied matter-of-fact.

Walking back to her desk, she took a long sip from her tea, and then kicked her boots off, and removed her holster and belt, then pants and shirt. Her undergarments were plain black and meant to be practical and comfortable. While missions could try her physical resistance, she saw no reason not to make herself as comfortable as possible.

She padded towards the center of the room, and quirked a brow at Nystrom.

"The Army makes sure to smack your ego and your modesty early on," she quipped.

[Rachael Nystrom]

Rachael was delighted that her eyes were facing the wall because they were wide like saucers at not only the captain being worried about her, she also squeezed her shoulder in reassurance. It was terribly odd but also amazingly sweet. No one was sweet to her like that. No one. She was just an orphan that happened to get a sweet deal through university because of her grades since the other track that was usually easier for someone like her was enlisting. With her foot and mouth syndrome, she'd be skinned alive in basic training and probably end up shooting herself in the face because she point the barrel of the blaster in the wrong direction. Thereby blowing her head off and saving the Drill Sargent further grief except an incident report.

She was thankful her mind had a knack for fashion, hence the high profile internship at Romanage. The portfolio she submitted won over the audacious Yessica Faunton who hated everything but chose the nobody orphan whose second best quality were her run on sentences.

Eying the captain up and down, she managed to look her in the eye and snickered. "Just more reasons why I'd never make it in the military."

She squinted playfully while setting the glass down. That took up all of her courage and then looked away with a nervous chuckle. "So..." she dug into her pocket and pulled out an old fashion tape measure. "Let's get down to business. Arms up!"

With a thin smile, Rachael sounded her most comfortable and confidant as she moved behind Syrenia. She extended the white tape around her bust without hesitating, then lowered her arms to get around the waist and lastly squatted to get around her hips, memorizing each number. "Okay. Got it."

Rising to her feet, she picked up the datapad and keyed in notes. "You can get dressed now..."

[Syrenia Renkl]

Oblivious to Rachael's shock at her caring instinct to make sure she was alright, Syrenia was simply happy that the other brunette was alright. She found it really sweet and endearing how the fashion designer could be both so on point with her work, and yet a bit of a klutz as well. She hoped that Miss full of her talented shit behaved with her; because Nystrom was definitely the best designer she had worked with, and she hoped that after the interim with the obnoxious monster, she might be able to have her personal customers. The Captain knew she would be happy to help spread the word.

She couldn't help laughing at what Rachael said of why she would have never been a good fit for the military. "At least, you're clever enough to realize it before attempting to enlist and being a pain in your instructors' ass."

She grinned and canted her head to the side, still perfectly comfortable in her undergarments.

"Also, I'm glad you're in a position to help me with dressing up in way that does not drive me batty for one of those gala things."

Once the old fashion tape measure was out, she obediently followed Nystrom's instructions. Nodding when it was done, she promptly put her uniform back on.

"You're a gem. I'm glad that I could steal you."

She paused, realizing that there was still something else on her mind.

"I don't know how your fashion works, but do you normally get invited to these galas? I know I saw your boss at a few."

After all, she had no reason to embarrass herself if Nystrom was already invited to it and had a date.

[Rachael Nystrom]

During the last bit of measuring, Rachael hummed with understanding. "Gotta like what you wear to feel confident in it. And since you said this isn't your sorta scene, kinda made sense to mesh formal with military formal so you can hopefully feel more like yourself there. Maybe you can have some fun too!"

It was a ramble, but a pertinent ramble. She was in her element and could focus better, offering more insight to how clothes could invoke emotions and make one feel beautiful on the outside to match what was inside. Though she couldn't predict how the Renkl sisters would behave. They were throwing things when she first met them and even if they were to be on their best behavior, it didn't mean they couldn't find a place to cause a private scene with one another. That was her impression at least!

With the compliment, Rachael's finger slipped on the pad which accidentally widened the waist of the pant suit making the captain look rotund. She hastily tapped and slid the profile back into place in case Renkl stole a peek. Needless to say, no one ever called her a gem before either and it took her by surprise. More than the genuine concern that was shown to her moments ago.

"Oh yeah. Not surprised you've seen Yessica here and there. She's always getting invited to those sorts of things. Her company does do some charity work and she's a well known person in the industry," she explained. "But for little ol' me?"

She looked up and chuckled at the idea. "Nah. Interns don't really go to those things. Unless it's to do background stuff for the boss. Then you're incognito."

[Syrenia Renkl]

Syrenia smiled to Nystrom's smart remarks about fashion and why this outfit would likely made her feel better than previous ones she had had to put up with for galas. It wouldn't turn such events into her favorite settings; but hell, she wouldn't mind managing to enjoy them just a bit, and maybe even have some fun too, as the designer said.

"I hope so. I tend to run away as soon as I can, so I can eat something more consistent than finger food, and if possible get comfortable and relax."

Off duty time wasn't always so extensive that she took it for granted.

Oblivious to what her praise did to the other brunette, Syrenia felt tension in her shoulders at the designer's answer to her question about the gala. She had thought it would be easier for her; but now she realized that she had no choice but to ask Nystrom out the good old fashioned way. It wasn't that she didn't know how to do so; but it wasn't necessarily where she shone either.

She slid her hands in her pants' pockets, leaning slightly against her desk and looked at the other woman.

"Would you like to go with me?"

She realized it might not be interpreted the correct way, so she clarified, just in case.

"As my date, I mean."

[Rachael Nystrom]

"Okay," she announced and with a sharp nod, saved the work on the pad. "So ... this should be pretty easy to get done before the gala. Need a good time to bring the final product by for a fitting to make sure I don't need to tweak anything. Gotta fit right or you're back to being not so comfy during the party."

She smiled and tapped in a few more notes about the hem and what stitching would work best to keep that military look. As she was oblivious to what Syrenia was warring with, she kept babbling. "I'll need to know when's a good time to come back here for you to try it on. Need at least a day or two to do any alterations. So keep that in mind."

If she had to pull an all nighter, she would. The captain was a busy woman and who knew how their schedules would line up.

But apparently they were lining up all kinds of weird because Rachael misunderstood what was just said. Or really asked of her.

Her nose and lips were squished together trying to fathom why the captain wanted to bring her with. Maybe to piss Yessica off? Syrenia was not a fan of the woman so that wouldn't surprise her. And that was when her eyes widened as it hit her that had to be it! Why else would the captain ask about going to these events and seeing Yessica at some of them.

It really was too generous of an offer, but mostly Rachael was concerned about making an inadvertent ass of herself since she was so nervous and clumsy. She didn't need to make a bad impression or cause a scene that would embarrass Captain Renkl.

Of course what Renkl said next stunned the intern that Rachael leaned forward with wide confused eyes, who slightly turned her head as if trying to hear something better. "You want me to ..."

Her mouth hung open, unable to finish the sentence or question - Rachael wasn't sure what she was trying to say.

"You're asking me out?" Now she was squinting, eyes darting back and forth around the office because this couldn't be her reality. "Like ... out out?" She emphasized the last part by pointing in the air after every 'out'.

"... willingly?" She added after a second because this was too good to be true. No one ever gave her a second glance, especially a ranking officer in the damn Imperial Army!

[Syrenia Renkl]

Syrenia nodded to Nystrom's words about needing one last fitting before the gala. She fetched the datapad on her desk and flipped through her schedule in the days prior to the blasted event. She stopped though as the fashion designer continued to ramble. She didn't know what to think of finding that so damn endearing. Nystrom was smart, quirky, and downright adorable.

"I have two possible times before the gala, two days before it. Would that work for you?"

She felt way less sure of herself, despite her confident sabacc face, when she asked the other brunette out though. She could give orders to hundreds of people and be confident about it; but asking someone out was a whole other beast.

The look on Nystrom's face confused her as well, and she expected a flat out no for whatever reason. Really the other woman didn't have to give her any in the first place. Then she registered the shock in her expression, and the realization.

The question that came next floored her. She couldn't comprehend how weird it was for Rachael to be asked out as such, and willingly, as she had put it.

"Yes, very willingly. I mean, I'd rather just hang out in a lower-key way; which I mean we could do if we scamper off early on."

She was the one slightly rambling, and she felt awkward, which would probably make her sisters roll their eyes, even Natalia if she was around.

"If you'd rather not, that's fine. I... I'd just be happy to have you as my date even if it's a formal and annoying event."

[Rachael Nystrom]

Rachael couldn't care less about scheduling time for the final fitting anymore because there was an important matter thrust onto her lap that needing an answer. The captain had willingly asked her out to one of the biggest galas in the system. No professionally, not just to have someone on her arm to quiet her sister but an actual date.

She did believe her because from what she saw and heard in the short time of being around the captain, Syrenia Renkl did not use words like scamper. It made the young intern question if she was awake or not because this couldn't be her reality that the well spoken officer was babbling because of her.

"Uh ..." She nervously licked her lips and looked awkward, shifting her weight back and forth. "... so ... wow!"

A small laugh bubbled up that made Rachael look away at the floor. "This is a first. Usually this happens in my head because no one asks me out."

She winced, eyes squinting tight while making a fist. Her fanciful daydreams were numerous but never shared. "I wasn't supposed to say that out loud ..."

Embarrassment flushed throughout her body that her ears were burning. "... and since I did, you can totally take back asking me out. I won't be offended ..."

[Syrenia Renkl]

It was ironic how Syrenia was a force to be reckoned with in the military; and had earned every bit of power and medals she had gathered over the years; but in her not-very-existent private life; she was drastically different. She refused to settle for what didn't align with her soul; but she could be a klutz about the whole dating scene. She cared a lot, maybe too much at times; but she was very much a low-key person. Heck, many would be shocked to know her love for cooking at home and watching romantic holo movies, when not reviewing how to fine tune and push her soldiers even more.

She felt horribly nervous about Nystrom turning her down; but she would respect a negative answer. She wasn't the kind to be pushy when she wasn't wanted. That only made everyone miserable.

She stared in shock at the other brunette's revelation that nobody asked her out. She couldn't really comprehend that; but maybe it just proved she was the weird one in the Renkl family, even though she wondered how Natalia was these days. The twins had always been all business and even more secretive and utterly rare play even when younger.

She waited expectantly for Rachael to say yes or no; and when the answer was mostly a blushing fashion designer and more awkwardness, she shook her head.

Realizing that they might be dancing around it over and over again, she managed to gather some more courage.

"I'd love to get to know you better. So yeah, I'm still asking you out."

[Rachael Nystrom]

And there it was again. Confirmation that the captain wanted to ask her out and get to know her better? This was too good to be true and the confusion on her face never vanished. In only deepened the lines on her forehead as Rachael's brain attempted to accept what was happening.

"Just ..." she held up a finger and spoke with a stupefied tone, "... one second."

That same finger joined her thumb and aggressively pinched her forearm. She winced and mouthed 'ow' while flicking her arm from the self inflicted sting. "So, okay. This really is my reality."

Which meant that Syrenia saw that.

Shit!

Rachael's face grew long, pulling her lips inward with embarrassment, and nodded with acceptance that her quirkiness took over. "So!" she said after her lips opened with a soft pop. "I'd be really excited ... Well, am excited considering my off the wall behavior here, that I would be really happy to accept you asking me out as my reality and would like to go with you. To the event. Thing. That I got you fitted for."

Her head hurt with how dumb that was.

[Syrenia Renkl]

Syrenia kept thinking she couldn't find Rachael more adorable; and it seemed that the other brunette was set on proving her wrong. She couldn't help chuckling as the fashion designer pinched herself to make sure that the discussion was real. There was no mockery in her expression and behavior though; she found Rachael's attitude and quirks utterly refreshing.

As much as she was proud of her military career and how she served the Empire as a patriot, Syrenia also cared about having a personal life; and Rachael made her forget the overwhelming professional aspect of her everyday life.

"Fantastic!"

She had replied with utter, almost girlish, glee. And she didn't care.

"I'm happy to hear that. I promise we won't get stuck longer than necessary to ransack the buffet, and show your exquisite fashion creations."

She chuckled.

"That's the good thing about being the "secondary" Renkl of the bunch. As long as I show up for a bit, they're happy to just have my Moff sister around."

She was delighted and proud to have Rachael as a her plus one for the gala; but really she was looking forward to spending time with her away from the crowd too.