Nar Shaddaa

Zeno continues the work on his guard shoto, not aware yet that this was going to be a lesson in how to properly make one, rather than actually making one.

D2 EE, Cool, Recover Strain: 1eA+1eP 1 success

1 strain regained

Zeno wasn't the only one out on the spaceport tonight, he was joined by a trooper going out for a stroll. Seeing as he lacked his helmet and wore a long coat over his armour, he was likely off-duty. Vec didn't seem the Sith working on his craft, rather more preoccupied with getting an idea of the place. From his chatty squad and the rumours that travelled around, there was supposedly an explosion that happened here?

Wanting to take a break from the busy work on his hilt, he looks around and sees the Imperial trooper. "You on patrol? You were at the briefing yesterday no?"

He perked up when a voice called to him and raised a hand in something of a salute. Placing his hands in his coat pocket, he walked closer to Zeno so that they weren't shouting across the way. "Nah, not exactly. And yeah, that was me. I am armed, however. Can't be too careful anywhere around here. Heard a few of our own got hurt around here."

"Yeah. I'm not surprised. I guess I'm fortunate that I didn't dock in Mezenti first. I can't imagine the Republic would be too happy with my videos and recent actions," he says with a nod. "But it's being looked into by Intelligence I'm sure, and I have no doubt the Hutts have stepped up screening."

"Why should they? This is probably just a normal day for them, explosions and assassination are just a normal order of the day for them. It's nice that Intelligence is on the case, but it'll be good to get that dossier before the next explosion happens. Get the news before making it, yeah?"

"They should because they offered a service and if they fail to provide they'll have upset Imperials and Republicans which is bad for business. And the Hutts only care about business," he says with a shrug.

"You're likely right about that, my lord," he nodded. "The Hutts won't get that much business if we're all dead. I'm sure they'll make amends in some way with a bottle of champagne and a sugary treat on a pillow."

"They're a lot driven by their greed and hunger for power. They may take actions that will increase security but they won't let us forget that it is our fault for fighting each other and try to pawn the cost off on each side as well. And see if they can't use it for an opportunity to make some extra credits. Maybe have the added security do some shakedowns or something less than obvious to make up for it as well. Resolve their investigation and fine someone including extra costs for added security." He shrugs at that.

He raised his brows at Zeno and glanced off with a snicker. "For a moment, I might have mistaken that you have a real soft spot for the Hutts here. But, you seem to know more than I do. Never had to deal with one directly but the are renown for their reputation. My apologies. Not the first time you got burned by them, you take it?"

"Oh, I haven't been yet, but I assume it's just a matter of time. Their reputation precedes them," he says with a chuckle. "And when that day comes they'll know it was a bad idea to cross me. But for the most part they prefer to make profitable decisions, and they have a nose for a favorable deal."

"Yeah, which should work out so long as you remain more profitable than anyone who might be after your hide. I'd personally rather not see a mess like the one here yesterday. I've done a lousy job if Imperials here start dropping like flies."

"It would probably be seen like that by your superiors regardless of the truth," Zeno says with a nod. "But hey, maybe we can find some stuff to work on together here and I might be able to send your superiors a good word, earning you a promotion or commendation or some such. What have you been up to so far?"

"Heh, sure," he said with a few nods, unconvinced that promotions will be found in this assignment, nor was he gunning for one exactly. "Me? Just doing my job and patrolling the Imperial compound until I'm needed directly. Can't say I've rubbed enough elbows nor can talk enough to do much in this peace negotiation with the Republic."

"There's more that can be done. Plenty of Imperial folks with personal interests around here, myself included. That's how you get to rub elbows," he says with a chuckle. "Gotta let some of your fellows take patrols and get your name in the ears of important people."

"Yeah, I'm sure I'll figure out a way," he said noncommittally and nodded toward his direction. "I don't blame you for making the most of your time around here, seems smart if we're going to making the most of enjoying the offered hospitality around here. And what sorts of interests do you have, interests you can share, anyway."

"I've already secured one object my master was looking for. Hunting a bounty that will lead to a lost Hutt ship as well. Gotta go to Kintan eventually for some boring geological stuff."

He looks over at the saber he was taking a short break from. "Working on a new saber."

"And always up for finding new contacts and allies."

"Quite a list of things, you've been keeping busy all right. It almost makes it seem like I'm slacking," he said as he rubbed his chin in consideration. "Shouldn't be surprised that a Sith would have plenty of side projects."

"Well, you can come along with me on something if you want. Not sure what I'll run into on Kintan, but I'd rather make a day trip out of it. See if I can't get in a bit of trouble. Probably head there in a few days. I might ask Nem'ro if he's got anything interesting there that he wants dealt with."

"Funny enough, a Sith earlier today suggested that I should consider seeking some action on the side," he brought up carefully. He didn't know if Zeno was considered the same kin as the Sith he met into and rather not get into a headache distinguishing their noble bloodline. "I was thinking of offering a hand if you have something in mind, if it's within reason of serving the Empire. I won't ask too many questions and keep things to myself, if you'd prefer it."

"I generally don't concern myself with keeping a lot of secrets. Some here and there, but for the most part I live openly. Imperial intelligence wouldn't be too appreciative of me doing things that could hurt the empire."

"But sometimes simply seeking out a challenge yourself, to overcome and help you grow, is in service to the Empire. It wants it's servants to improve their potential."

"I wonder if the actually Sith have to fill out paperwork whenever they off the rails," he murmured in an aside comment, not really wanting an answer for it. "Yeah, that sounds about right for Sith philosophy. I've been just a creature of habit for the last decade or so. I admit, going off does has its allure and dangers."

"Gotta break up the monotony from time to time at the very least. What better time than when on Nar Shaddaa?"

"We'll see," he said in a slightly grim tone. "Once I know that the Imperials here are in relative safety. I'd hate to find that there's been a bombing at the Imperial compound because of Sarge was moonlighting at the lounge bar washing dishes, or something."

"You dream of bussing tables," he asks with a smirk, clearly just teasing.