Ice Queen

[Lynmeira Verashy]

When Lynmeira had semi-crash landed on Ilum with her late master eight years ago, she hadn't expected to develop a fondness for the ice-covered world. She still recalled her bewilderment at her sick Togruta mentor marveling at the landscape, while the younger human was complaining about the cold. Yet it had not only provided strong opportunities to grow her skills in the last year that Tullya had had before passing away, but she had genuinely learned to appreciate it.

Although much of her pre-Jedi life had been spent busy traveling as an interpreter for the company her father owned on Bakura, she had found herself enjoying the solitude in the abandoned outpost Tullya and her had turned into their home. While it was a rather small one, there was plenty enough room. Her pet project from the early days, converting a hangar into a plant nursery, had turned out to be how she had earned money and been able to upgrade her home and sustain herself since then.

The nursery had become her sanctum, especially as the arts of herbalism and healing were her specialty as a Jedi. It was also a perfect way to hide in plain sight among the small population of Ilum, which mostly consisted of some imperials who wondered what they must have done to get the posting, some scientists still fascinated by the planet, and a lot of outlaws, ranging from that Black Sun base that scared a few, to isolated groups. She was known as a hermit, or the Panther Lady, due to the two Asharl Panthers (http://starwars.fandom.com/wiki/Asharl_panther) she had domesticated, Tul and Lya, tokens of remembrance for her deceased mentor and friend.

Once a month, she headed to the Dead Fern settlement, which served as one of the few hubs of semi-civilization on the planet. It was far enough that she retained her privacy the rest of time, but close enough she could rely on her airspeeder (http://starwars.fandom.com/wiki/T-47_airspeeder/Legends). which was especially practical as she had been working on an old space ship for a few years, but expenses for her home always took priority over it.

The airspeeder was big enough to accommodate the goods she had. She was at peace with not overstretching herself, so she could continue to serve a decent amount of customers, but also ensuring that they were quality goods. She mostly sold remedies and herbs, but every visit would have her include some vegetables, fruits, or legumes, she grew as well, but mostly kept for her own consumption.

She sometimes mused that some Jedi of old or more recent times, might frown upon how she sold food and medical supplies to people considered enemy of peace and justice. She knew too well how the imperial cogs could be, and she didn't necessarily think any good of criminals. Yet she believed that being helpful for people' health was a virtue regardless, and that by being charitable, she also embodied Jedi values regardless.

Of course, this was all inner musings, for nobody had any idea she was Jedi, for she never displayed her Force skills, or even made the mistake of carrying a lightsaber with her. The brunette had thought about building a new one for several years, having lost the first one during dangerous times with Tullya, but she had never got around to do it. She believed time would be right one day. Yet she had found the right Adegan crystal for her a few years ago while hiking around Ilum, something she did from time to time even with the chilly weather. She had been wearing it as a pendant (https://cdn-img-2.wanelo.com/p/265/275/f1f/b87b457f8f0bd86e44bf063/x354-q80.jpg) since then, a little sophisticated touch in what otherwise was a very functional wardrobe.

For now, daydreaming and walking down memory lane was to end, for she had just landed her speeder in the large hangar bay where the few vendors and visitors mingled. Powering the vehicle down, she soon climbed out of it. Since she flew solo, she had space by the other seat to store decent amounts of merchandise, even with Lya accompanying her this time. The panther soon jumped out and began to trot around the hangar, sniffing the air. In the meantime, Lyn began to unload the few medium sized containers she had. On cue, one of the lifting droids appeared to help.

They might be in the middle of nowhere, but the whole thing was well-organized at this point.

[Kalail Rotas]

Flick. Flick. Flick.

The lighter's spark warred with the cold winds of Ilum and was currently losing, much to the aggravation of one Black Sun Vigo.

Flick. Flick. Flick.

The action produced nothing as Kalail Rotas continued to roll the metal under a gloved thumb with hopes a flame would come as she oversaw Rodian grunts unloading a cargo ship in the hangar. They were delivering monthly supplies to base, which the Imperials ignored in part that both sides despised the planet and they left each other alone due to a long standing relationship that once occurred with Sorsha and Miranda. Despite her cousin's downward spiral of obsession that took root since Miranda agreed to marry Gallus, the Empress kept pleasant relations with Black Sun as long as nothing overt happened against the Empire. It was why a far out of the way outpost on this planet operated without any care. Ilum was a drop point for refueling and repairs and no one gave the syndicate a second glance when in fuller numbers. They came and went and traded, keeping the locals happy with their good behavior.

Flick. Flick. Flick.

She growled in frustration and tugged the fur lined hood closer around her head as a gust pushed it back ever so slightly that the chill ran down her neck. The white insulated jacket kept the rest of her body warm while waiting for one of the locals to arrive. Overseeing a supply drop was beneath her status as a Vigo but negotiating medicinal supplies was not.

A Hutt cartel was expanding spice production with a new potent grade. A new technique had been utilized on Cona to accentuate the natural compound of sodium chloride, an addictive substance for Arcona, and it was found that it could be used to amp up ryll, a mild form of spice. The idea was to lace the substance with this new refined technique that would make the ryll appear normal and mild, but it would cause immediate addiction. The addict would want more ryll and soon realize they would need something stronger and boom, here come the creds rolling in as the purchases of more potent and high grade spice increase.

Black Sun did not like at all and were working on a counter agent that they could sell while they received word that the Alliance was looking into stopping the supplier. Either option was a boon for the syndicate.

Flick. Flick. Flicker ...

"Yes!" Kalail's free hand balled into a fist with victory as a tiny yellow flame finally ignited to life ... only to be snuffed out with the next uptick of wind that blasted through the hangar.

She bared her teeth at the offending lighter and threw it at the cargo ship. "Stupid ass mother fucker!"

Her shoulders sagged after the outburst, not feeling any better as the lighter bounced harmlessly off the hull.

"Huh ..." She straightened her posture as she honed in on the panther sniffing near a speeder that had just arrived. There was a woman unloading crates and it had to be the Panthar Lady that Kalail was briefed about. She was the local expert on Ilum's native healing flora and should have substances that Black Sun drug lords were looking for.

Kalail tucked gloved hands into the front pockets of her coat and headed over with a little swagger in her step but mindful of the panther's presence. She figured that the pet would alert its mistress there was a visitor ...

[Lynmeira Verashy]

Lynmeira was always cautious when unloading her cargo; but she was also used to do that on a regular basis, and thus tended to do some people watching in between. It was a force of habit as well, for she liked knowing who she dealt with, whether directly or not. Keeping track of regulars, newcomers, and visitors, made sense, especially since Ilum making it easy due to how isolated it was. She knew that aside from the scientists, she was an oddity for willingly stay on the ice cube. She knew she would eventually leave; but she trusted in the Force's timing and guidance.

For the most part, the people around were ones she had seen before, including some goons she knew to belong to Black Sun. The Rodians were busy, while someone she had never seen before, a woman whose features the Jedi only vaguely and briefly got a glimpse of, seemed very aggravated by her current location. It was obvious to notice upon the lighter toss.

Lyn didn't give it too much thought though, and continued unloading her supplies, for she knew usual customers would be happy to get their hands on both her regular and unusual goods.

Lya growled moments after the Jedi had sensed a presence approaching. She looked up and saw it was Miss Lighter. She gently brushed a wave of calm towards her furry companion. The panther nevertheless stood between her mistress and the stranger.

"May I help you?"

There was something incisive about the other woman, and she was curious to see what it was about.

[Kalail Rotas]

Kalail may be brash and crazy, but she wasn't going to press her luck by encroaching any further and piss off the panther. This up close, she found the predator beautiful - from the sharp dual claws to sleek fur that made it appear broader in size - the creature was magnificent and she was lucky to be near such a specimen. What impressed her even more was the Panther Lady had really good control over it. Yeah she heard the stories about this healer but seeing it first hand? Kalail had mad respect for the beast tamer and was happy the panther was quiet instead of growling. She wondered how the hell she managed to tame one, let alone two.

She offered a tiny wave to the animal protector first, not caring if beast or mistress thought her strange. "Heyas pretty kitteh."

Afterwards, Kalail stuffed the hand back into the coat pocket and nodded in affirmation towards the healer. "Yeah. Need some rare herbs an' stuff an' heard you'd be the best lady in all of Ilum that might be able to help."

[Lynmeira Verashy]

Watching people' reactions to her panthers was often a solid indicator of how they would behave. Felines could know better than humans, really.

While Lynmeira always had her senses cast out out of habit, she considered the Force a quiet humming in the back of her mind most of the time. She trusted in it; but she didn't want to give up on her intellect or personal observation skills. That was something her late mentor and friend had ingrained in her. The Force was a guide and an asset; but it would never replace the brain of its wielder.

Lya sniffed the woman and kept watch by her mistress's side; but both the Knight and the predator appreciated the genuine compliment as the stranger greeted "the pretty kitteh." Many regulars, including some Black Sun and Imperials, were wary of the panthers, much to Lyn's satisfaction.

She grinned to the reason why the woman sought her out. "You were well-informed. What are you looking for?"

One thing she had learned was that not asking why people needed stuff was a good way to fly under the radar.

[Kalail Rotas]

"I've a list." She pulled out a datacard for the merchant, cradling it with a thumb and index finger, glancing between panther and mistress. "I can toss it to ya if ya want."

The unspoken question was there, can I approach and hand this to you if it's alright with you and the kitty protector. Kalail wasn't going to make a stupid mistake and move forward without consent.

"Though, I'll be honest," she added with adventurous smile. "I really have no idea what the hell's all on the list. Plant stuff's not my thing."

She was more of a blowing up the plant kind of lady that happens to have a brilliant mathematician mind. With her cousin gone, Kalail had to take over running the family banks on Corellia and Imperial Center. Thankfully the Kasajian Exchange was in good hands with the accountant.

[Lynmeira Verashy]

Lynmeira's expression brightened at the mention of a list. Not only did it mean that she would sell multiple items, but she liked an organized customer. She had seen a few that had a general idea but kept getting things mixed up. As much as the Jedi didn't mind offering suggestions, having a list made things so much easier. And if certain things were lacking, it also was quicker for her to spot that.

She grinned at the mention of the woman potentially tossing it to her. She appreciated the silent question, and looked at Lya.

"What does my pretty kitteh think?"

The panther emitted a slight purr and then sat down so she let the stranger and her mistress close space, so the Jedi could retrieve the datacard for herself. Depending on what Miss Lighter had heard about her, she might realize it wasn't that common for the feline to do as such, especially upon a first encounter.

Lynmeira knew better than to think this woman was harmless, but something tugged at her senses, even though it felt ambivalent, an uncanny push and pull she couldn't exactly fathom yet.

She shrugged at the woman saying plant stuff wasn't her thing.

"That means I still have business to do," she wittily replied.

She began looking through the list, after plugging it into her datapad, an image of what it was for beginning to form in her mind.

"Hmmm, I have most of it in my crates here. A couple of important items I only have back home."

She looked up at the woman, raising a brow at her.

"Also, I think that unless you already have several herbs on hand, your list might be lacking one or two things depending on what you're looking to accomplish."

She wasn't trying to sell more; or be prying. It was how she worked, and why she had built a good customer base on the remote icy rock that was Ilum.

[Kalail Rotas]

Kalail was so delighted that the panther allowed her to approach that the utter joy couldn't be hidden from her eyes. They shined just as bright as the smile on her face and she briefly wondered if she put her hand out, if the panther would sniff it.

Or bite it off, so she wasn't going to go there. Still it was a rare honor that someone of her not so innocent activities got vetted by the kitty and offered the datacard to the plant lady.

She chuckled at the wit but the firebug's attention was focused on the panther who was so close! Kalail had to fist her hands inside the coat pockets in fear that she might do something stupid like, actually trying to pet the animal! But she was pulled back to duty after the vendor spoke up.

"That's fine. I'm here for awhile, so I can wait for another drop off tomorrow." Kalail's orders were simple. Acquire everything and come back to Corellia to have the ingredients processed for immediate testing. Of course why she needed these specific ingredients was not on the list and the fact that Panther Lady caught on quick made Kalail wonder what else the woman could suss out.

She decided to be honest but not blatantly so.

"Got a bit of ... potential addiction problem that might need mending. My people came up with this as a possible solution, but you're saying it's not so good huh?" Her tone was pressing but also curious, knowing that from what she heard about this woman is she wouldn't try and pull a fast one on her for more money. It was about being reliable so if there was a deficit in the derived formula to combat the super addictive ryll, Kalail had to know.

[Lynmeira Verashy]

Miss Lighter's awe at the panther was an adorable counterpoint to how frustrated she had seemed earlier, as well as the no-nonsense business approach she had. It wasn't lost on Lynmeira, especially as the sheer interest in Lya was like a beacon through the Force, besides the expression on the other woman's face.

As always, the Jedi was good at just blending in, keeping her heightened perceptions to herself. She knew that once upon a time, the Jedi lived together as a singular order, and that there had been words during her travels that the remnants had gathered under the banner of a reformed order. She couldn't help but thinking that living among everyday people, even those who might be looked down upon for many reasons, was a way to make the galaxy a better place. She had little interest in grand organizations of any kinds, and had greater faith in the Force, and how every day life and the little things people did could change the course of the world in a subtle but longer-lasting way.

She was glad to hear that the woman had time for a next day delivery. Some of the plants she was looking for weren't among those Lynmeira carried with her for every "market day" as she had come to call her regular trips to the outpost.

"I can bring everything else tomorrow then," she confirmed.

She appreciated the bit of explanation about what the plants were for. That helped her assess the list with greater accuracy.

"Depending on the type of addiction, the list has two ingredients that might counteract each other. And one of them can have dangerous side effects unless it is blended with Blue Korash, and I would recommend having some Prima Lavera as a binding agent, because it helps many species's respiratory system."

She didn't directly ask for specifics, but at the same time it was her duty as healer to ensure that her products might be used in the best combination possible in such cases. And if Miss Lighter needed to speak with her medical team before pursuing with her purchase, it was better to have her do so prior to it.

[Kalail Rotas]

"Oh yeah?" Kalail was focused, eyes narrowed in determination to absorb every word. She didn't know shit about this stuff but Kalail could grasp a general understanding of what the woman was urging to do to make this recipe work.

These were major issues with the antidote that weren't anticipated. She was sure their scientists would've figured it out, but plant lady was giving them a head start. Probably saved a few lives too.

"Can ya note that stuff down? I wanna make sure when I return the substances that don't play nice with each other are examined further." Pretty plant lady had the information after all and it would be rude of Kalail to snatch it out of her hands. "Idea is helping, not fucking them up further, ya know?"

Kalial wasn't heartless and didn't want people dropping dead because their scientists fucked up. She left the whole profiting off of it part because that really wasn't necessary information. Black Sun was going to provide a service and services required creds. This was a business after all.

"And the Blue ah Korash - do you got some of that with ya? Or at your home? Think with what you're saying, be good to have it on hand to tinker with the recipe." She squinted as the glare of the sun hit the snow just right that immediately brightened the area. What she wouldn't give for cloud cover right now. "The Lavera too? Considering there's a chance of immediate issues that can involve breathing problems, best to have that on hand. Specially so since multiple beings can use the stuff."

She flashed a smile. "Make it worth your time too. Compensate not only for the goods but the information."

[Lynmeira Verashy]

Whatever Black Sun wanted to do with healing stuff, it wasn't Lyn's concern. She sold edible and healing plants, as well as culinary spices. It was a business and she had no issue with earning money to sustain herself. She might be the weird holed up hermit in the middle of nowhere on Ilum, but there was no reason to starve. She helped at her level and it was fine by her.

Whoever was working on what Miss Lighter's list, they were some lacks for sure. She wasn't going to tell her that her team sucked, but it was only honest to let her know about the problems at hand. She had her integrity after all, and she remained a healer at heart.

"Sure thing," she replied and opened a copy of the file where she jotted down notes with plant names and their uses.

It was second nature to her, and she appreciated having a solid reputation in the area, even when she sold to imps and Black Sun. She was helping people, and under the millions galactic suns, as long as they were alive, she had a duty to help people. Maybe it was unorthodox, but she cared little as to what others would think. After all, only her knew what she really was underneath the merchant and hermit layers.

"Yeah, making people sicker to save their lives is rarely the way to go," she observed.

"I have both Blue Korash and Lavera Prima at my place. The Korash can take a few hours to be prepped for transportation and use once it's harvested, so that would required a delivery in two days, but the rest I have ready."

She realized that to a non-herbalist, it might sound weird. And she liked making sense. There was no reason to appear haughty with customers. She liked explaining things in a simple and concise way.

"The Blue Korash needs to be dried a certain way and then turned into powder before being usable for anything. Once it's done though, it has a very long shelf life."

She caught how the blonde squinted her eyes because of the Ilum's sun refracting on the ice.

The brunette quirked a brow at what Miss Lighter said about what she could earn for it.

"I appreciate your sense of business," she responded with a grin.

She wasn't going to charge crazy amounts, but being able to charge for the information was an appreciated gesture.

"I'm adjusting the quantity of the two other plants according to your list, so you should be covered."

She fell silent as she was calculating a solid estimation to hand to her new customer, on which they should be able to agree on.

[Kalail Rotas]

"Wait... two days?" Kalail narrowed her eyes as she did some quick mental calculations. It wasn't that she was on an actual schedule, but there was a timeline that her people needed to try and stay on.

She did give a pensive smile back at the business remark, not wanting to be totally rude as she texted back information to Valtor, their lead scientist on this, about the slight delay. "Business is always important and making sure people are compensated properly is what I do."

Which was a true enough statement. This was a situation that called for monetary gains for plant lady since she was providing a service. When beings screwed over Black Sun, compensation varied from extortion to death. Her favorite was blowing personal property up and it had been far too long since she had the chance! That Devaronian's speeder exploded to perfection, the force cracking the windshield, blowing panels out as fire consumed the vehicle.

Damn the memory made her hot, but the quick message back put her needs aside. "A'right. Whew."

She tucked her link away and flashed a grin, happy that the cloud cover she wanted arrived, and blinked a few times to adjust her vision. "Since this is vital, I can hang here for an extra day or two. So ... I guess you're stuck with me."

Kalail waited patiently with hands going back inside pockets to get all snug and warm again as plant lady tapped away, making adjustments to the list with notations. "Make sure to use small words," she suddenly added. "I've gotta feeling my guy's gonna need them to get the recipe right."

[Lynmeira Verashy]

"Yes, two days. And that's counting I'll work during part of the night to crunch the process."

Miss Lighter's reaction to her timetable left Lynmeira look impassible. Her posture was still confident and calm, for she had seen people decline certain transaction because of such things. She knew it was part of business; but she had to keep her integrity in how she treated both her customers and her goods. Providing subpar merchandise or service was beneath her, and she valued her work ethic. It was one of the few things that mattered a lot to the lone Jedi.

She waited quietly to know whether the two days wait was agreeable for Black Sun.

The brunette smiled to the other woman, grinning at the remark about proper compensation. She appreciated such things.

When Miss Lighter said the trade got the green light, the healer nodded politely.

"Wonderful," she replied in earnest, for healing addiction was always a worthy goal to pursue.

She quirked a brow and her grin turned just a tad mischievous at the blonde's remark about them being stuck together.

"I could think of much worse fates."

Lya tilted her head at the stranger, then back at her owner, but stayed put.

She continued working on her calculations and eventually had a number, six thousands, which might seem a lot for just plants; but some were difficult to acquire, especially via private educated sellers, and she only computer a 10 percent bonus for the information she provided. While she liked making some decent money, she considered that sharing her medicinal knowledge, especially in such a minor way, shouldn't be charged too much.

She handed the datapad to the blonde, waiting to see what she would have to respond.

"The notes should be clear enough for a smart child to understand, so I'm sure your guys will have no problem with them."

[Kalail Rotas]

Kalail, for once, wasn't purposefully flirting. She was being her usual charming self and making light of the situation since this planet sucked. Her duty to Black Sun and seeing this transaction through afforded some measurement of decorum, earlier lighter tossing aside. They had the means and time for the Vigo to wait this out, which was the right thing to do since her people failed hardcore on the recipe. Beings dropping dead after using their product was bad for business and it served no purpose. Kalail didn't get her kicks off of senseless deaths.

Plant lady's remark was filed away but there was a rakish grin in response and she completely missed the panther's curiosity - or was it confusion?

She cackled and took the datapad back to look over the notes. "I dunno. You said smart child. Not sure if my guy qualifies for that after fucking this up so much. I could probably do better and I don't even know this shit."

True to her word, the language used was basic and Kalail was able to easily follow. On the side was the price and her lower lip tugged out in thought, but not entirely about the proposed fee.

"So ... about those worse fates ya mentioned." She tapped at the screen to propose a new amount for plant lady's services. "Would said fates cause any disruption to that night time overtime? And if it does ..."

She turned the datapad around and presented it. " ... maybe I can be convinced in staying a half day more since it's still within our timetable."

The number Kalail offered was 2000 more.

Kalail had no issues feeling out that little bit of flirting to see if it went anywhere, and if it did, it was only polite to offer an increase in payment for the extended time it would take for her to refine all the supplies that were needed. Plant lady was more than easy on the eyes, was intelligent, and technically showed a bit of interest first.

If not, Kalail was cool to back off and keep it professional, though she was rooting for some fun because that would make this trip a helluva lot better.

"Or if the fates are wanting to work late, we're good with the original estimate too." She smiled confidently with a firm nod, making it clear that whichever way this was going to go, plant lady was in charge of any extracurricular activities.

[Lynmeira Verashy]

Lynmeira might live like a hermit but she still recognized a gorgeous and intelligent woman. And Miss Lighter was very much both. While the Jedi normally avoided any long-term entanglements, she had had a few scattered flings over the years, but it was still a rarity. She wanted to be recognized for her business, not for how good she was with locals in bed. That was why she only ever selected travelers.

Bedding a Black Sun member who might get to come back for some reason wasn't the most clever thing she might do; but really, she didn't dislike the idea. There was just something about her that called to her.

She had never claimed to be any sort of traditional Jedi anyway. Maybe she would be considered an outcast even if she tried to be part of a bigger thing. Anyway, she knew where her calling laid, and she knew that her sex life had nothing to do with it.

Anyway, she just felt slightly silly over it, because mere flirting could very well mean nothing.

The priority was to ensure that the order was perfectly handled, and that was a forte of hers.

She was brought back to reality at the mention of the Back Sun guy whose intellect Miss Lighter appear to doubt just a tad.

"Well, you should hire more women then," she replied at once.

Watching the blonde's reaction to the proposed fee, Lyn waited to see whether it would be debated or not. She knew it was a possibility, but she was also known not to go under ten percent lesser than what she put on the table.

What was said and offered next took her by surprise, though her expression remained about the same. One could say she just had a good Sabacc face; but truth was that the Force helped her remain centered.

"Hmm," she mused pensively, her fingers slightly tapping to the side of the datapad.

"I would appreciate not having to work all night long for sure," she added, still considering the option.

It was weird but really, she felt a tug to accept, and she was focused enough to know it wasn't just unattended hormones.

She let Miss Lighter finish her offer, and express that going with the original plan was still good.

"I like your offer better; and I propose to put some of that extra night time towards letting you sample some of the liquor I distillate."

Lya was definitely staring at one woman and then the other, back and forth, as if wondering what the hell was going on.

"It makes the cold more bearable, I hear."

[Kalail Rotas]

Kalail snorted. "I can't argue that. And we do. Just need more, eh?"

Then added after a beat. "Wanna job?" She was half serious, half joking, because plant lady was well established on Ilum. Locals loved her, Kalail's people respected her, and she knew that beings tended to like their routines. And the lady had a nice lucrative routine here.

Black Sun was ran by a female and a good number of the organization was women, like hers truly as Vigo. Everyone had their strengths and weaknesses, and Valtor was not cutting it. Now that she was able to understand what was needed, she'd be able to keep a watchful eye him or he'd be replaced. Hopefully it was just a bad spell for the guy and he just needed the right push to get results on a challenging problem.

Which plant lady was able to decipher really quickly. That meant Valtor was currently displaying idiocy.

She shrugged and would see how things played out on Corellia. The Vigo would transmit the recipe ahead of time to give him a head start in confirming the additions to the formula and prove he wasn't useless. Right now, she was more concerned if her open invitation for pleasurable warming activities were going to be accepted.

Kalail watched her tap at the datapad, imaging what else those fingers could do and felt a rush of heat warm her belly. It was the warmest she felt since coming here, and not for lack of trying, or looking, but no one caught her attention that she would want to generate some heat with. Until now. Kalail didn't really hear how attractive the healer was as most of the stories from her people were about avoiding the panthers and being respectful of her time - a playbook on how to get what you wanted from the green thumbed hermit.

She thought it all silly, except the sincere warning about the panthers. Kalail was good with people and didn't have to put on a fake persona to get what she wanted. She knew what was needed and had money, the woman beside her knew her shit, so it was a win win if you weren't an ass. And truth be told, a lot of Black Sun grunts stuck on a base in the middle of no where were sometimes going to be claustrophobic asses. And that's why they were still grunts maintaining a refueling station.

"Yeah?" Kalail's interests perked up on personally brewed alcohol, eyes narrowing with a sly grin as she took one step closer to the healer. She couldn't even imagine how potent the brew she could make with all the fresh ingredients available to her. "Sounds like just what I need since I'm kinda allergic to cold."

She glanced around wistfully and noticed the panther looking at her. "Actually hate the cold. So ..." she glanced back at her with playful pout, "... I'm really happy you can help me out with my little problem."

[Lynmeira Verashy]

Lynmeira wasn't so familiar with the Black Sun's hierarchy; but she smiled at the mention of women being part of the organization beyond Miss Lighter, and a few female grunts and a few higher ups she had witnessed in the past few years.

"Good, there's enough sexism around this galaxy."

She canted her head to the side at the question whether she'd be interested in working for Black Sun. That probably sounded like the most un-Jedi like thing to do; and it was likely mostly meant as a quip; but it made her think.

"Where's the job and what's the pay and perks?"

She grinned, showing she was still fine if it was all banter; but there was something in her eyes that indicated she partially meant the question. She had carved a lucrative space for herself on Ilum; but at the same time, everything she had could be transported elsewhere with the right containers.

And she didn't feel any warning in the Force about the discussion. Her instincts made it clear it was a weird situation to be in; but it had been the same vibe since she had decided to stay on this world anyway. She went with the flow, and kept an open mind, serving others where she could, and making a decent buck out of it to continue doing so.

She grinned at the woman's reaction to her mention of home brewed liquor. She didn't move as Miss Light took one step closer. She caught how Lya got to her feet, still quiet but ready to move. Lyn raised a calming hand, gently reaching out through the Force to her panther who stayed where she was.

"Allergic to the cold? I have remedies," she replied with a wink.

"Good thing I'm good at that healing business, hmm?"

She held the blonde's gaze as she continued.

"What about we meet back here or wherever you're bunking at sunset? I have more transactions to handle and need to go back to fetch the liquor; but I'll be back in the evening to help you stay warm."

[Kalail Rotas]

Kalail looked pleasantly taken aback and grinned. "If you're serious, I can put together a proposal. I'm sure our health plan will get better with enlisting ya."

Then she winked. "If you're not, I can still give it to ya. Food for thought, ya know?"

The Vigo didn't think the playful banter would go anywhere, but it didn't hurt to try if the planet lady was even a tad serious about finding new work. Though she couldn't help thinking the way she was looking at her, that maybe Ilum's resident healer might be considering one helluva career change.

Though she watched how the healer's motioned to something Kalail couldn't see. She took a peek and saw the panther getting territorial, but not in a mean growly kind of way that the Vigo needed to be defensive about.

Still she had manners and took a step back and gave the panther an earnest apologetic look. "Sorry pretty kitteh. Just being friendly and all."

When the conversation picked up between them again, the healer had Kalail's complete attention and grinned. She liked that plant lady was on the same page when discussing healing remedies and briefly ran her tongue along the back of her teeth while numerous, delicious, ways entered her mind on how they could stay warm tonight.

"I think ya know where I'm bunking."

She was staying at the Black Sun base and it was not uncommon to have extra entertainment there as long as it were maintain in designated areas. She could meet the healer and provide an escort to the nicest quarters on base. Everything they would need would be in her room so plant lady didn't have to leave, unless she wanted to leave the base.

"If you're okay with that, you can head to main gate. I'll alert my guys to expect you."

[Lynmeira Verashy]

While Lynmeira knew that one day she would leave Ilum, the unexpected opportunity was still a surprise. She was willing to take a chance though. The Bakura-born Jedi knew that fate was what one made of, even when they were trained in the ways of the Force. As attuned as one could be, free will remained.

And she felt the pull. And she wanted to respond to it.

She grinned to Miss Lighter's answer.

"I'm serious," she said with a spark in her intelligent eyes. She felt Lya staring at her. Her panther was a little unsettled but especially she was curious, for she could feel no tension from her mistress.

"I didn't get up this morning expecting a job opportunity; but I'm not the kind to turn an appealing option down."

Ah, double-entendre, how I have missed you...

Besides all teasing and banter, she was looking forward that proposal Miss Lighter was willing to put together.

Lya gave a look at the blonde and leaned forward, sniffing the woman from a little distance, before sitting upright again.

When the topic returned to the upcoming evening, she chuckled about knowing where the other woman was bunking.

"Well some of you who just stop by prefer staying aboard your ship, so I didn't want to just go knocking on all doors if you weren't there, you know..."

She nodded to the arrangement, feeling unfazed that she would go spend the evening on Black Sun base.

"Sounds good to me. I'll see you tonight, then."

From the corner of her eye, she saw a few other customers waiting for their turn. Business was good this month.

[Kalail Rotas]

This was certainly a strange twist of events for the Vigo. She came here for supplies, bordering on exotic and special requests, and wasn't expecting to find an intelligent, savvy, beautiful woman to share a cold night with. Nor being serious about an employment opportunity with Black Sun. Kalail didn't know what to make of it because she wasn't someone to believe in signs and that nonsense. She followed business acumen and knew that Verashy (yes she was aware of plant lady's name) was an good catch. Ripping apart the list of ingredients into a workable solution based on hunches of what Kalail was trying to do was brilliance. The healer went beyond the plain and ordinary, anticipating needs and thinking things through with an honest assessment.

That was the sort of science know how that her organization could use so it tickled her that the healer was serious.

"Well then, looks like I've got a proposal to write up until I see ya tonight, huh?" she said, chewing lightly on her lower lip and enjoying the banter. "I'm very detailed orientated so I'm sure you'll find it to your liking."

She chuckled at the imagery and conceded with a nod. "Yeah, I'm sure that's not a good way to potentially make a good impression with the crew since you may be joining us."

Then she winked. "Though, first impressions are already great."

Kalail leaned forward and grinned with genuine enthusiasm about later tonight. "I am too." She stepped back and spoke with amusement but eyes were serious. "Just don't go hurting anything prepping for all your clients today. Hate ya have to cancel later cuz of some garden shear incident."

She kept a wide berth from the panther but offered the pet a slight bow. "Pretty kitteh. Was nice to meet ya too."

[Lynmeira Verashy]

Expressing interest in working for Black Sun was rather crazy for a Jedi; but Lynmeira felt no warning signs. On the contrary, it felt right in ways that she knew were only her intuition and her deep immersion in the Force. That was one of the results of having been a hermit in the past years: hours and hours of meditation. Of course, she also ensured that all her abilities remained on par and eventually grew as time went on; but gardening and preparing goods were extra meditation to her, besides the actual time she spent sitting between her panthers, letting herself be one with the Force.

This was a most bizarre turn of events; but she trusted it, trusted in the Force.

There might have been a textbook way to be a Jedi years ago; but such times were long gone.

"You do," she replied with a sharp nod to Miss Lighter's remark about having a proposal to write.

"Just as you're freeing some of my time to relax, I'd hate to have you work all of tonight," she added with a wink.

"Although I like the idea of you working up a sweat."

She was genuinely excited about the upcoming night as well as the professional prospects.

"Oh, you'll see me for sure, Miss Lighter," she replied with a grin.

She bit her tongue as she realized the nickname had come out without a warning. Oh well, she wasn't going to take it back.

Lya sniffed the woman as she bowed to her and stood up to take a few steps towards her but stopped shy of being in range of touching her. The panther had thresholds of tolerance after all. Instead, she went to growl at one of the next customers who finally approached, coaxing a scolding from Lynmeira.

***

The rest of the day was busy with the usual transactions, taking in some orders for the next visit. It was already late in the afternoon, and basically night time, when the Jedi flew back to her home.

Even though she had plans for the night, she made sure that she put everything back in order, spent some time with both panthers who were always happy to reunite. She made the rounds in her plant nursery, and eventually took a long shower. She rarely indulged in those, but she couldn't help wanting to be extra pampered for that night. It was another weird benefit of being good at herbalism: she hand crafted mean soaps and skin products. It was one of her secret talents.

She didn't feel bad about not having anything fancy or sexy to wear, given the life on Ilum; but at least she had decent clothes (https://i.pinimg.com/originals/70/a3/c8/70a3c8cc7758d4f21ad51a3631e74164.jpg) to wear underneath her big cold jacket.

After retrieving two bottles of her home made liquor: a plain one closer to vodka, and a flavored one with peach hybrids, she stormed off and powered her ship up quickly.

It was about 800 local time she landed at the Black Sun compound. As Miss Lighter had said, her arrival was expected at the front gate and someone escorted her to the appropriate door inside the building.

She nodded to the grunt who had led the way, and then tucked both bottles in one arm, and knocked on the door.

[Kalail Rotas]

The rest of Kalail's day was filled with reports. It was a constant with her public and private persona, whether it was the wealthy banker that owned the Kasajian Exchange or the Vigo that oversaw daily operations with her Lieutenants to send on up to the Boss Kitty.

Valtor was first on her to do list, transmitting the updated recipe to him for review with detailed notes that the Vigo transcribed. She was honest with Plant Lady, not having a clue what all this stuff meant. So to entertain herself as she wrote up his report, Kalail had another screen solely for the use of looking up words and plants for giggles. Unsurprisingly everything that the healer said was confirmed but that wasn't why she did it. Kalail was a curious creature and when she was about something, or someone, she liked to do her research.

That was why she was doing a little digging on the healer too. Kalail enjoyed her intellect and playfulness, and was happy to find a someone to keep her warm, but she needed to make sure there were no red flags on the woman. Which, thankfully, there were none. Everything was on the up and up during her stay on Ilum but there was as sizable chunk of missing time since she was last on Bakura. That could mean anything. She had hired on people that had been MIA before. Only known alias Lyn had were the Panther Lady and well, the Plant Lady that she came up with. Cursory digging found no other aliases or a family name, but Kalail will put the feelers out for a thorough background check if Lyn agreed to come work for Black Sun.

She worked on a contract while sipping wine, filling in blanks for the scientific pay grade, resources allowed during the month trial run and if satisfied, would be granted a stipend for approved research that would benefit Black Sun and possible side interests with proper documentation. There were detailed information of sites that had openings for Lyn's talents and if things went well, the Vigo wouldn't mind if Corellia or Coruscant caught the healer's fancy since those were her main stomping grounds. There was also the standard nondisclosure agreement that everyone had to sign. It went without saying you don't snitch on Black Sun, but this had to deal with all research funded by the organization and sharing was not caring.

Engrossed with her work, she forgot to eat as the hours went by and blinked in confusion as to why there was a knock at her door. Tapping her lighter on the desk in annoyance, she glanced at the chronometer and laughed.

It had to be Lyn and the Vigo approved of her promptness. She moved the contracts onto a datapad and locked down the main terminal before getting the door.

She was leaning against the edge of the doorway when it slid opened, still wearing the same clothing as before minus the big puffy coat. The grey sweater was baggy on her and fell off one shoulder and hung past her hips. Lyn would notice that Kalail wasn't using the cold allergy as a complete come on either since the heat inside was a few degrees warmer than the hallway.

"Hey ..." she said after taking in the delightfully dressed Lyn, appreciating the casual choices. "I can assume my guy was nice?"

Lyn's escort, a blue skinned Twi'lek, shrugged. "You zad to expect her and bring her. I bringed her ze way youz told me to."

Kalail looked to Lyn for confirmation.

[Lynmeira Verashy]

Lynmeira's eyes took in the silhouette of the very attractive blonde. It was very un-Jedi to be attracted in a Black Sun big name, for she had no doubt that Miss Lighter was up in the food chain; but she didn't care.

Heck, it was the first nudge of the Force she had felt that strong in years. She had even made some time to meditate after putting her ship on autopilot on the way there. For some mysterious reason, she knew that wherever Black Sun would take her, she would be able to do good and be of service. It was ironic given what Black Sun could do; but hey, what mattered to the Bakura-born brunette was to help, regardless of how bizarre circumstances could be.

The exposed shoulder stirred something inside the healer that was purely carnal, and it made her grin. She had no shame in how her gaze lingered over the Black Sun woman.

"Hello there," she replied with a smile as their eyes met.

She felt how the woman's room was a bit warmer than the hallway; but she kept her quip about needing some body heat for herself as the blonde asked about her escort.

Lynmeira chuckled and nodded.

"He did the job."

She waited for Miss Lighter to dismiss the Twi'lek, but she took a step forward, arching a brow."

"Hallway scandal or the privacy of your bunk?"

She was only half-joking as she danged the bottles before the blonde.

[Kalail Rotas]

Plant Lady was enjoying the view and smiled in return once it was confirmed that her escort was acceptable.

"Cool." She tore her gaze away from Lyn's to properly dismiss him. "You can head on out. Just make sure the fuel's properly stocked for the crew coming in a couple days. I want them in and out in a few hours."

"Az you wish ..." He paused, looking at Rotas' guest and decided to leave her title off as it was her prerogative to inform the healer or not. But the Panther Lady was a savvy human and had to know that his boss had clout.

With him gone, she was pleasantly surprised by the continuing boldness of the Plant Lady.

She smirked, eyes twinkling with mischief. "If you're daring me, be careful. I really love dares so ya might find yourself in a scandal."

Kalail had pushed the envelope with PDA before with her men helping to provide a modicum of privacy. Making out in the hallway of the base was nothing, but she dropped her arm and allowed entrance into her temporary abode. "But I can't promise we wouldn't break those bottles full of yummy goodness so ... do come in ..."

[Lynmeira Verashy]

Lyn had already put together that Miss Lighter was no goon; and her exchange with the Twi'lek confirmed that. Where exactly in the food chain the blonde was remained unknown; but the Jedi believed she would eventually find that out, especially if she ended working for the Black Sun, against all odds.

When her host warned her about the dare, her smile widened and she found herself even more interested in the other woman. Finding someone with good looks, great brain, and energetic spirit was a rarity on this rock, and if she was honest with herself, the brunette missed that. She did well as a hermit, but living in isolation could be taxing and quite lonely.

"Scandal? Well now, that's an invitation by itself," she replied with a wink.

Yet she didn't push further and stepped inside the quarters when invited to. She couldn't help chuckling at the incentive to behave that the bottles provided.

"That would be a shame to break them. Trust me!"

She placed the bottles on a nearby table and took her cold weather coat off, putting it over the back of a chair.

"I didn't bring glasses."

She didn't care whether Miss Lighter went straight for the bottle or not. She was good either way.

"Also, should I call you something else than Miss Lighter?"

[Kalail Rotas]

As the door slid closed, Kalail admired the healer's spirit. She found the retorts refreshing and enticing and liked how they both agreed that breaking the bottles would be a great travesty. The Vigo was absolutely certain if not for those bottles, they would still be on the other side of that door but in a liplock.

"Psh. I've got glasses." She smiled as her guest got comfortable and padded into the kitchenette. It was modest in size and well stock with food and supplies. One of the cabinets had several choices and went for the small crystal glasses ... which was a pleasant surprise to find!

Dangling the glasses by the tips of her fingers, she returned with a delighted chuckled. "Miss Lighter's cute cuz of my tantrum. But might not be the best thing to shout out when we're in bed."

With a wink, she set the glasses down and started uncorking the first bottle with the opener she already had set aside. It was a simple metal spiral attached to a polished wooden handle that carefully pierced the center of the cork before Kalail began twisting.

"I'm Kalail. Kal for short if ya like." She lightly bit her lower lip as the cork was freed with a small pop. Waggling her brows, she began to pour for them. "Do I get to call you Lynmeira?"

Her nose crinkled playfully. "Or should I stick with what the locals call ya, Panther Lady..."

She smirked and offered Lyn a glass. "Or maybe Plant Lady?"

[Lynmeira Verashy]

Lynmeira was quite enticed by the Black Sun woman; and she was perfectly comfortable with getting some fun out of the situation, besides good business. She was still curious about that possible new job offer; but she was happy to take it as it went, for finding herself in close quarters with a hot blonde was quite great in and for itself.

She chuckled at the mention of glasses and appreciated her hostess's curves in the most unapologetic way as she retrieved said glasses and dangled them before her. It wasn't as if they were supposed to be courting in some old fashioned way. The Jedi had never really blended in when it came to proper manners and stuff, even when growing up in supposedly proper Bakuran society.

She burst into laughter at Miss Lighter's retort about what to shout out when they were in bed. She liked her spirit, and she had no concerns about whether it would or would not happen. She bet that the Black Sun woman was a hoot including in bed.

"Kal... I like the sound of it. And complicated names aren't the best to shout during sex. Hell, if you can articulate a long name in such circumstances, the sex must be really bad and boring," she replied with a wink.

"And if I had thought it could be the case, I wouldn't be here."

She kept her attention on Kal as she opened the bottle and poured them glasses. She grinned at the question and the mention of her nickname around the locals.

"Lyn is fine, though I like your new one, Plant Lady."

She took the offered glass, her fingers brushing against Kal's.

"If you use my full name though, I'll take it that I need to do much better though."

Somehow she could picture the blonde do that as a dare, at least before she totally turned her into a happy puddle.

She chuckled and clinked her glass against Kal's before downing it, the home made liquor rolling down her tongue and throat with its usual burn, with a hint of sugary citrusy flavor.

[Kalail Rotas]

Unrestrained laughter was the Vigo's response, finding the healer's wit just as attractive when they first met. She appreciated someone that could keep up with her whether it was business or in bed. Bonus if they didn't mind her unbalanced pastimes that involved a wide range pyrotechnics. Kalail Rotas wasn't dubbed the Black Sun's Firebug without reason.

She grinned and unabashedly nodded at the inferred compliment as to why Lyn agreed to be here. "I aim to please."

Her mouth twitched at the light sensation of fingers brushing against hers and the challenge. "Oh you're on, Plant Lady. Though, pretty sure we won't have to result to such drastic measures." She purred at the end before eyes twinkled with mischief. "Then again ..."

Brows waggled before she downed the liquid contents and hummed with appreciation to the exotic flavors. She never quite tasted anything so sweet after a the familiar burn of hard liquor. One could get develop a taste for the warring flavors that somehow played nicely with one another and had a feeling that Lyn was much the same.

"... maybe you'll have to guess if you're actually doing a good job or not." She winked while pouring them a second drink. "Could be fun."

[Lynmeira Verashy]

Lynmeira was already having a splendid time, and she bet that it was merely a glimpse into all the delightful mischief the night would bring. She doubted that many Jedi would suggest flings with Black Sun ladies; but really she did not give a damn. She hadn't survive so much in her life to let societal expectations corset her. Her conscience was clean; for bedding hot women had never made a healer any less efficient to help others.

Also, Kal had one hell of a sexy laughter. She loved the freedom in which the woman carried herself. It was extremely attractive to her, and not just because she had chosen a mostly solitary life on Ilum for the past few years.

She laughed as well after finishing her drink in a few sips.

"Oh, you can bet I'll make sure I am doing a stellar job, Kal," she retorted with a wink before fetching her refilled glass.

She closed the short distance between them and curled the fingers of her free hand on the other woman's waist. She tilted her head and was tempted to capture those tempting lips into a heated kiss already; but retained enough self-control for the time being for she had a question to ask.

"Would you rather discuss that job offer before, after, or in between rounds?"

After all, Miss Ligher was the one who had brought it up in the first place. Regardless of the result, Lyn was staying the night, ensuring that everyone in the area heard what was going on in Kal's quarters.