The Imperial Base Inspector:- File 06 Eriadu :- A Star Wars USB Tale
Posted: Fri Aug 15, 2025 8:32 am
It has been several months since Satine's success in the joint operation between the ISB and the Imperial Navy on Coruscant, and her work continues unabated. Thanks to the efforts of Satine and Cora, the security at Imperial Bases has increased substantially and the Office of Internal Efficiency has the highest clearance rate of any department in the ISB. The couple's relationship has also deepened, with Cora now moving into Satine's apartment full time. However, their successes have not gone unnoticed. Ever since her infiltration of the Fortis Inquisitorus, Satine has attracted the attention of Grand Moff Tarkin who, seeing her potential, seeks to recruit her for his Eidolon task force. In concert with Director Brennic, he has devised a cunning test for Satine to infiltrate his estate on his homeworld of Eriadu and prove herself…
The War Room, Estate of Governor Wilhuff Tarkin, Eriadu, Core Systems 11:00am, 3BBY
“Have you made the necessary preparations, Director Brennic?” Asked Grand Moff Tarkin as he sat behind his desk, tenting his fingers. Opposite him, the blue shimmering hologram of Nils Brennic nodded. “Yes, Grand Moff. I just need to present her with the mission brief and she'll be good to go.” The edges of the Grand Moff's mouth twitched. “Very good, I look forward to meeting Captain Falére in person and seeing her in action.” Brennic tucked his hands behind his back, as Tarkin rose from his desk, raising a curious eyebrow. “Is there something further you wish to add, Director?” Brennic sighed. “I only wish to repeat my misgivings about taking Sat-Captain Falére from her vital work of shoring up the security of our bases, Governor.”
Tarkin ground his teeth before replying in his clipped, aristocratic tones. “Might I remind you, Director Brennic, that Captain Falére was one of our best intelligence assets, before you had her reassigned to your department. A department that has wasted her abilities on trivialities like infiltrating our own bases. What do you have to say for yourself?” Tarkin gestured with his finger before walking over to gaze on the misty crags of his homeworld, his back to him. The grizzled ISB director's holo flickered. “That the security of our bases must take priority, and Satine is on the front line ensuring the rebels cannot strike at us from the rear.” Tarkin shook his head. “With respect, Director, I disagree. You've wasted Captain Falére’s skills unnecessarily that offers us no tactical advantage over the Rebellion, where she would be better served as an Eidolon agent taking the fight to them.” He said over his shoulder. “Is there anything further?”
Resigned Brennic shook his head. “No Grand Moff. I shall take my leave, good day.” As the hologram of the Director shut off, Tarkin smiled thinly looking forward to the prospect of acquiring a gifted young agent.
The Apartment of Satine Falére and Cora Yenner, Apartment 405, Northern Financial District, the Same Moment
“You know for a highly decorated Imperial pilot, Cora, you have brought a lot with you?” Satine said as she helped her lover Cora unpack her personal effects. The Pantoran shrugged, a smile reaching her big blue eyes. “Well you get shipped from place to place, you pick up a few things. Surely, you understand skipper?” Satine nodded, she knew all too well. Looking down at a small medal case, she noticed a holo-picture tucked in beside it. “Who’s this, Cora? An ex-girlfriend of yours?” The holo depicted a much younger Cora arm in arm beaming with a strikingly beautiful young woman, also smiling with long tied back raven coloured hair, with a single silver strip from the centre parting and vivid violet coloured eyes. Both were dressed in the black off duty uniform of TIE cadets, against a backdrop of a bustling neon lit street which Satine guessed was Corulag.
Walking over to her, Cora let out a surprised gasp. “I thought I lost this, thanks for finding it babe.” She gently took the holo, smiling. “You could say that. That's Dendra Vess, my dearest friend from the academy and yes I did sleep with her, twice actually. This was taken the night before we were shipped out; she was deployed to the 103rd Fighter Wing on the ISD Victory and I got the 201st.” She breathed wistfully. “I miss her, I hope she's alright the rebels have been quite active in the Elrood Sector, lately.” Satine gently squeezed her shoulder. “I’m sure she's okay, Cora. What was she like?” Cora giggled while taking a seat on the sofa, Satine joined her hunching up close. “A damn good kisser and the sex was electric but really she was the best friend a girl could wish for. She was a rich military brat from Vardos but she sure didn't like it. Dendra told me that she admired me from afar and had fallen head over heels in love, in the 6 months of our training.” Satine put her arm around her. “Then what stopped you? I heard that TIE pilots have less personal restrictions than stormtroopers.
Cora sniffed. “My roving eyes, that's what stopped me. I had already fallen for a local girl Callie, a nice girl and a transport technician but she dumped me the night I graduated. I remember getting piss drunk with Dendra and the rest of our training wing, then we started to kiss and then the morning after we had sex she came out to me…” Satine nodded in understanding. “Unrequited love, I know the feeling. By the time you realised your feelings it was too late.” Cora then kissed her softly but passionately on her lips. “Thank you, Satine…” Cora said, pulling out gently. “...it's good to have something of the past to remind us where we are going next.” The redhead rubbed her nose playfully on Cora's. “I love you, Cora Yenner.” The Pantoran kissed her again. “Love you too, Satine Falére. You impossibly hot redhead. The sound of bleeping drew their attention to Satine's comm-link resting on the table. “No rest for the wicked.” Satine sighed, scooping it up, as Cora leaned forward.
“Falére? It's Director Brennic. I know you're on leave with Yenner but I’ve got a job for you, and it's big. Bigger than the Fleet Headquarters.” Satine nodded, switching it on loudspeaker for Cora. “Alright, Director let's hear it.” There was a slight pause. “I’ll need you to come into the office, I’d rather not discuss this on an open channel.” Satine and Cora looked at each other, raising their eyebrows. “You got it, Sir. I can be there in half an hour.” Thanking her, Brennic shut off the comm. “Well, Patch sounds more serious than usual.” Cora said as Satine kissed her on the cheek and left for her bedroom to put on her uniform. “Hmm? I wonder what could be bigger than the Imperial Fleet?” Mused Satine, stripping off her clothes and heading into the refresher.
The Office of Director Nils Brennic, 50th Floor, Imperial Security Bureau, 11:35am
“Falére, good to see you. Sorry about interrupting your leave, but this comes straight from the top.” Director Nils Brennic offered Satine the seat opposite him. “Director. You said something over the comm-link about this being bigger than the Fleet Headquarters sting.” Brennic nodded, handing her a datapad and holo-projector. “How does preventing a possible attempt on the life of Grand Moff Tarkin sound?” Glancing at the datapad, Satine smiled. “Tell me more, sir.”
Brennic leaned back in his chair, sipping on a mug of steaming caf. “Our listening post on Sulon intercepted chatter from the Rebellion; we have credible intelligence to believe that a threat against the life of Governor Tarkin may be imminent.” Satine crossed her legs. “With respect sir, Tarkin happens to be one of the most protected men in the galaxy, apart from the Emperor. He is guarded by elite death troopers, high end surveillance equipment and the most sophisticated security network in the core words.” She took a sip from her caf. “The rebels would be foolish to try it. Except if they have any skilled infiltrators in their ranks, like yours truly.” She smiled confidently, sipping her beverage .
Brennic leaned forward, elbows on his desk. “Which brings me to the reason why I pulled you from your break, Falére. The Governor himself requested you and you specifically, to run an unannounced security audit, to guarantee his safety in the event that these threats are genuine.” The corners of her mouth twitched before she took a measure of caf. “Well, I did get his attention when I broke into the Fortis Inquisitorus. Perhaps this is his way of testing us, testing me?” The director grinned, his eyes flashing with pride. “That's one of the things that never cease to amaze me about you Falére; nothing gets past you.” Satine laughed, setting down her empty mug. “So what's the objective? I infiltrate Tarkin’s estate in disguise, breach his security and present my report to him personally?”
The Director leaned back. “That pretty much sums everything, Falére. On that holo, are the schematics of the estate, including the cable car system which is the only way in or out of the facility. Use it to plan your route to the Grand Moff.” Shaking his hand, Satine rose from her chair but Brennic forestalled her with a warning hand. “Satine. Be careful and watch your back, if you are caught by the death troopers, they will shoot to kill before you have a chance to flash your ID.” Her brow furrowed at his use of her given name and there was an odd look in his eye, pride mixed in with sadness. “Don't worry sir, I’ll make sure this doesn't turn into another Aldhani.” Flashing him a salute, Satine turned on her heel and strode from his office. “Good luck, Satine...” He called back to her departing shoulders. “...and goodbye.” He sighed wistfully under his breath.
The Personal Quarters of Captain Satine Falére and Cora Yenner, the Shadow Vane, in Hyperspace 18:00pm Coruscant Time
“So we're actually going to infiltrate the headquarters of Grand Moff Chuckles himself? Talk about living dangerously, skipper.” Cora said gently rubbing Satine's shoulders, as they sat on her bed reviewing the estate's schematics. Satine smiled gently leaning into the caresses, purring with contentment. “And by his personal invitation, no less. Since he apparently fears for his life. But I can't help thinking that there's more to this than what Brennic told us.” Cora kissed her on the cheek. “Well you did get Old Chuckles attention when we broke into the Fortis Inquisitorus. Maybe this is what he meant when he said ‘good things in your future.’” she said in a good impersonation of Governor Tarkin. Laughing, Satine leaned back gently, kissing the Pantoran softly on the lips. “You know you sound just like him, love.” Giggling, the two women turned their interest to the hologram on their bed.
“So there's only one way into Tarkin’s fortress, Cora, and that's through the cable car station. The fortress itself is on one of the highest peaks on Eriadu, so climbing it is out of the question unless I want to get spotted and blasted off the side of the mountain by the TIE fighter patrols.” Cora nodded. “So you go through the most direct route, the checkpoint in disguise by taking out a scouttrooper, stealing her armour and taking the tram up.” Satine smiled. “Good call, love. But I’ll need an officer's uniform and clearance to access the tram, they won't let a grunt scouttrooper on there.” Nodding, Cora looked up at the imposing holographic fortress on the hill. “But once you get inside that place, you'll be on your own babe.” There was concern in her voice, switching off the hologram Satine turned to face her.
“Don't worry, Cora…” she gently caressed her pilot's cheek. “...I’ll do what I always do, improvise.” The Pantoran grinned gently, parting a loose strand of Satine's auburn hair. “And I will be right there in your ear, the whole way babe.” She leaned in passionately kissing Satine, who returned it with equal enthusiasm. “I wouldn't have it any other way, my love.” Giggling she pulled Cora onto the bed and the two lovers gave into sheer carnal pleasure.
Western Highlands, Eriadu, 5 klicks from The Estate of Grand Moff Tarkin, 10:00am local time.
“This is about as close as I get you to the estate, babe, without attracting the attention of the fighter and scout patrols.” Cora said as Satine readed her rappel wire. She had parked the Adjudicator on the top of a small plateau, close enough to the estate but far enough below the notice of any patrol. Securing the wire onto a clip around her waist, Satine kissed her lover on her blue cheek. “Good work, Cora. It's better this way, I don't want you to risk yourself just to give me a head start.” Making sure her guide wire was secure, Satine looked out at the foreboding peaks, shrouded by bleak mists towards the Grand Moff’s bastion that stood out like an imposing permacrete beacon. She sighed. “What a depressing place, Cora. Just about as cheerless as the man himself. This serves as a natural defensive measure in and of itself.” The Pantoran giggled.
“Well you have to hand it to Old Chuckles, he does have a sense for the dramatic even if he doesn't know.” The women laughed as the telltale high pitch drone of speeder bikes pierced through the gloom below them. Flashing her a wink, Cora gave her a passionate kiss which Satine returned hungrily. “I love you. Go get them, skipper.” Standing over the edge of the plateau, Satine blew her kiss. “I’ll be back before you know it, my love.” With that she leapt over the side and began her descent, mind going back to the time she and her father used to go hiking together in Naboo's Northern Foothills.
The Canyon Floor, 4 klicks from Tarkin's Fortress, 10:20am
Cutting through the thick morass of morning mist, like hot knives through butter, scout trooper ES-5973 or Keili Brandt from Kestrel's Fold sat astride her speeder with her partner and boyfriend ES-286 or Hal Onasi from Telos IV next to her. Underneath her helmet, Keili was an attractive girl of 21 with lightly freckled rounded features, high cheekbones and light turquoise coloured eyes; framed by light chestnut coloured hair cut into a functional bob. Looks city boy Hal had called the “Cute farm girl next door, look.” Finding their usual make out spot that they had discovered during their morning patrol, the two young lovers set down their speeders and took off their helmets.
“Looking good, handsome.” Keili giggled seeing the squared jawed blonde eyed, blue eyed visage of her lover Hal. “You're not looking too bad yourself, babe.” He replied leaning across and kissing Keili’s cheek. The girl smiled, caressing his face but her face turned grave. “Hal. You don't think Sergeant Bray is getting wise to us? I mean we had a close shave in the barracks the other night and…” Hal gently put a finger on her lips. “You worry too much, Kel. If Bray did see something and reported it, then he wouldn't have put us on this detail, now would he?” Keili breathed a sigh of relief as her lover took her hand. “Yeah, you're right. Oh Hal, why can't we get a transfer to somewhere like Corulag where we won't have to tread on eggshells and fly through this bloody fog.” Hal chuckled gently, kissing her knuckles through her glove. “Let's get back to base and then we see about putting in for that transfer.” Nodding and gasping in pleasure, Keili leaned in to passionately kiss her boyfriend before a clicking sound from behind them drew their attention.
Keili gasped in shock. “By the stars, what was that Hal?” Instinctively, Hal drew his ankle blaster and jumped off his speeder, facing the threat. “Stay here, Kel, I’ll go check it out. Stay here and if I don't come back, call it in.” Squeezing his lover's hand, Hal disappeared into the mist, blaster raised. Panicking slightly, the young scout trooper drew her own blaster. “Wait, Hal! I should go with you! Don't leave me on my own!” Breathing heavily, her eyes scanned around wondering if there were rebels concealed in the fog.
Hal Onasi peered through the mist, kicking himself for not grabbing his helmet; the built-in thermal vision mode would have come in handy seeing through the morass. “Who the hell's out there?! Is that you ES-578? You spying again for Sergeant Bray? You wait until I get you in my sights, you bastard.” As he rounded the rocks, expecting to see the crouched form of ES-578 Hal felt a slender hand clamp around his mouth, followed by an electric shock that travelled from under his armpit and into his CNS. He grunting muffled, convulsing until he collapsed unconscious into Satine's arms.
“Apologies trooper, but you really should pick a better make out spot than this in the future.” Satine quipped, dragging the man behind the rock. “And trooper. Your girlfriend will be joining you presently, and lucky for you, I’ll be relieving her of her armour.” She said winking at the sleeping scout. With her Bothan stunner still humming in hand, Satine crept silently through the mist towards the fidgeting Keili.
Keili was getting nervous, Hal hadn't called back and she was worried that he may have been ambushed by rebels or worse. “Hal?! Hal?! Where are you, dammit?!” She shouted over her shoulder, equal parts concern and fear. Taking deep forceful breaths, Keili remembered what Hal told her. Calm down Keili. Hal said if he doesn't come back then call it in and get back up. Her hand hovered over the speeders commlink. But if I do that then Sergeant Bray has what he needs to get us separated. Suddenly, before she could make up her mind Keili squeaked in surprise as she felt an arm snake around her slender throat, hauling her up in a stress position. She groped for her blaster but her attacker coiled her arm tighter around her throat, making Keili choke in pain.
“I wouldn't do that if I were you, trooper.” Hissed a female voice in her ear. “Now gently toss your blaster and suddenly move or I will break your neck, understood?” Keili whimpered at the voice making a half hearted nod. “W-who are you? And what have you done with Hal? Y-you haven't killed him have you.” She replied tears beginning to well in her big pretty ears, as she reached down to toss her blaster. The woman chuckled. “Don't worry, I’m not going to hurt you. Your boyfriend is just sleeping. Play your Sabacc right and you may just join him.” The young trooper breathed a sigh of relief. “W-wait? Is this a training op? Did Sergeant Bray put you up to this?” She choked.
Satine reacted quickly. “Damn it, command. It looks like the Loth-cat is out of the bag. What should I ask the trooper?” In her ear Cora played her part well. “Start with the basics, babe. The cutie has to have a name.” Satine grinned, loosening her grip slightly to let the trooper speak. “Sergeant Bray didn't send me, this comes straight from command. And they want to know your name, for the record.” The young brunette blinked the tears from her eyes. “Uh…Keili Brandt, Scout Trooper private. Designation ES-5973, ma'am.” She answered nervously but briskly.
“You got all that command?” In Satine's ear, Cora giggled. “Yep, now let's find out the enemy's strength.” Satine nodded, turning back to Keili. “Okay private; How many troopers guard the checkpoint? And their procedures? Quickly now.” She coiled her arm around Keili's neck for emphasis, the trooper squirmed whimpering in pain and fear. “Alright, alright. Just don't hurt me or Hal. There's three stormtroopers manning the checkpoint into the tram station, and all they check is trooper designations. No facial biometric sweeps. That's all I swear!”
Satine smiled, taking out a syringe full of sedatives from her pack. “That's all I need, and Command thanks you for your cooperation, Private Brandt. But I'm afraid I'll be needing a couple of more things from you. Namely your uniform and your speeder.” She pulled off the cap with her teeth, plunging it into Keili’s carotid. “Ow! What?! Why do you want my unifo-uhhh…?” The young scout slurred as the drug travelled through her bloodstream into her brain. With a low sigh, Keili slumped unconscious into Satine's arms. Satine caressed the sleeping girl's comely face. “It's nothing personal, sweetie. Besides, you'll be sleeping with your honey.” Laughing, she took Keili under her arms dragging her towards the rock, where her boyfriend waited.
“You know Cora? They do make a really cute couple.” Quipped, Satine as she finished getting dressed in Keili’s armour, looking down on the sleeping girl who she had draped over her unconscious boyfriend, their lips brushing closely. Under her armour, Keili had a tight slim body emphasised by the standard issue white ribbed vest and black panties she now wore. Her C-cup breasts staining against the thin fabric, nipples peeking through. Cora giggled in her ear. “A little like us, eh Skipper? You did a decent thing putting them together.”
Satine smiled wistfully making her way back to Keili’s parked speeder, her mind casting back to the secret trysts she and Jan shared during their 6 months on Jedha. “I know what it's like, Cora, to keep a hidden affair going when you share the same barracks with the one you love. You take all the moments you can get.” Straddling the bike, Satine holstered the scouts' discarded blaster before placing the helmet over her head. “ How did you cope, babe. If you don't mind my asking?” Satine snapped down the helmet's visor, then gunned the speeder's engine. “Delta-9 was a family. In the end we all looked out for each other.” With that she twisted the throttle, speeding towards Tarkin's estate.
Tram Station Checkpoint, 10:36am
Coming towards the electrified barrier, which was visible through the thermal optics of her stolen helmet, Satine gently eased the throttle down. In front of her three stormtroopers manned check, one on the tower to the right while two flagged Satine down, standing on either side of the speeder, one wearing the white shoulder pad of a corporal. “Just a minute trooper. What's your designation and assignment?” He asked, a deep voice made imposing by his helmet. Satine leaned back, snapping off a quick but parade ready salute. “Scout Private ES-5973, corporal sir. I’m currently running perimeter sweeps with my partner ES-286.” The corporal glanced at his slightly smaller sub-ordinate who spoke up. “Then why are you here, trooper and not on duty with your partner? Where is he?” Stated the woman, gripping her blaster.Satine took a deep breath. “He's back on the perimeter with a faulty comms unit thanks to the damned mist. He sent me back to grab a mechnik to make in field repairs.” She lied, keeping her voice straight and level all the better to sell the lie.
The tall Corporal facepalmed and sighed. “Damn this bloody weather! We burn through more commlinks than the entire Imperial Army!” He gestured up to the trooper on the tower, with a throat slice. Behind him the electrified barrier faded. “Go on in trooper, we can't have faulty comms, not when we're guarding the Grand Moff!” The corporal added standing aside to admit her. “Thank you, corporal.” Satine saluted the man before gently gunning the throttle and driving forwards past the checkpoint.
Parking up the speeder bike, Satine looked up at Tarkin's fortress which loomed just visible on the tallest peak, shrouded in mist. Above her the familiar roar of Twin Ion Engines cut through the morning haze, a TIE Fighter on a low fly past above the tram station. “There's nothing quite that sound, babe. When I first heard the sound of those engines, I knew I was home.” Came Cora’s awestruck voice through Satine's earpiece. Chuckling, the redhead walked up the stairs into the tramway station.
The Tram Station, 10:45 am
“So you still need a disguise to get onto the tram and up to see Chuckles. What do you see babe?” Asked Cora as Satine scanned the surprisingly sparse platform, seeing mostly male officers and patrolling stormtroopers. Both which Satine discounted. “Look, I’ve been waiting for the past hour. My name is Doctor Bryn Maddox and I’ve a meeting with the Grand Moff which I’m already late for.” Said a nearby female voice impatiently from behind her. Satine turned to see a young, slim attractive brunette woman in her mid twenties wearing an imperial science uniform; a navy blue and grey belted tunic with navy trousers and black leather jackboots, the sigil of the Imperial science corps stitched into her left shoulder. She was holding a metal briefcase. The girl was prim and professional, with smooth heart shaped features, classical tapered cheekbones and big brown doe shaped eyes framed by square wire framed spectacles. The doctor's long dark brown hair was tied into an elegant functional ponytail. Satine smiled. She's definitely my size. And I don't believe I’ve worn that particular uniform, this should be interesting… “Disguise at 12’o clock, Cora. And she's a looker.” In her ear, Cora laughed. “You always know how to pick them, babe.”
The stormtrooper Bryn was talking to, shrugged. “I’m sorry doc, but the trams have been running behind all morning due to a maintenance issue. So you might as well get comfortable.” The doctor stamped her foot angrily. “Dammit, trooper. This is about Project Starburst and what I have to show Director Tarkin is for his eyes only!” The trooper shook his head. “And am I supposed to know what a Project Starburst is? Sorry doc you'll just have to wait for the next tram, whenever that is.” Tutting her disappointment, Dr Maddox turned on her heel heading towards the direction of the ladies bathroom. “Acquiring disguise, love. I’ll be out of contact for 15 minutes, talk to you soon.” Satine said following hard on Dr Maddox's heels. “Take her down gently, babe.” Giggled Cora.
The Ladies Bathroom, 10:56am
Dr Bryn Maddox sighed as she washed and dried her hands in the refresher. Damn this place, it's falling apart. It may be the Grand Moff's bastion but he can't afford to skimp on maintenance. Or the Rebellion will be the least of his worries. She looked up in the mirror, jumping with a gasp at the sight of a scout trooper standing right behind her. “Oh by the stars! Don't do that, trooper, I didn't hear you enter.” She hesitated slightly seeing the woman, cock her helmet. “Um, why are you looking at me like that? Is the tram on its way?” The trooper shook her head. “Sorry Doc, I’m afraid you won't be making that meeting with Governor Tarkin. I will be in your place, but I need your uniform.” Bryn recoiled back in horror. “Wha-mmmph?!” She cried as the troopers hand clamped across her mouth to muffle her screams.
Bryn tried to struggle as she was pulled to her right by her attacker, exposing her slender neck but the trooper was too strong. “Shh, it's alright doc just a little electric shock and you're straight to sleep. Just don't struggle too hard or it will hurt more.” The trooper hissed, flicking out a Bothan stunner, pressing it to Bryn's vagus nerve and thumbing the medium setting. Bryn let out a muffled scream, squirming in pain as the electricity flowed through her nerves towards her Central Nervous System, booted feet scraping off the tiled floor. The scientist in her, knowing that unconsciousness would follow in as little as 30 seconds. Then with a low pained sigh, the young Doctor slumped unconscious into the scout troopers arms.
Catching the limp scientist under her shoulders, Satine dragged the unconscious girl into the waiting cubicle behind her and sat her down on the empty bowl. “So is a cutie, skipper? I happen to have a soft spot for nerdy girls, particularly redheaded ones.” Teased Cora as Satine pulled off her scout trooper helmet, taking a deep breath. “Are you saying I’m a geek, Cora? I’ll take it as a compliment, love.” Cora giggled. “ You're smart as a whip, beautiful as a Pantoran moon and you look great naked. I’m sure she isn't a patch on you babe.” Kneeling by the unconscious Dr Maddox and pulling off her jackboots, along with her white cotton ankle socks, Satine blew her Pantoran lover a kiss. “Flatterer.”
Unclipping Bryn’s belt from around her slim waist and straddling the sleeping woman, Satine unfastened the woman's tunic, opening it out and slipping it off the scientist's shoulders, one arm at a time. “The good doctor does have a nice body Cora, but she's not blue enough for me.” The redhead quipped, taking in the sight of Dr Maddox's lush C-cup breasts enveloped in a blue plunge bra with white lace trim. “Glad to hear it, babe.” Chuckling, Satine unzipped Bryn's trousers, working them off her slender hips and whipping them down past her long legs, exposing a matching thong that protected the good doctor's modesty, leaving her legs spread.
After stripping out of her stolen scout trooper armour, Satine quickly got dressed in Bryn’s uniform before taking off her glasses and putting them on, luckily finding that they were just for reading and not distance. She then loosened Bryn’s hair tie, adopting a small ponytail. Leaving the cubicle, Satine took out Dr Maddox’s credentials and used Iona, slicing them to instead have her likeness. Thanking the little droid, she stored it into Bryn's briefcase then left the bathroom.
The Tramway Station, 11:06am
Standing on the terminal, Satine smiled thinly as the tram descended through the mists from the fortress. As an afterthought, she keyed in her hair piece. “Cora? Could you slice into the Imperial Science Corps database and find Dr Bryn Maddox? She's the woman I just replaced.” She asked in hushed whispers, taking care to keep her hand from her ear. Cora's dulcet tones answered briskly. “Of course babe. One of the fringe benefits of working with the ISB, they have the best software credits you can buy…” There was a slight pause. “There. Well, well. Looks like your girl was into some top secret shit. Unfortunately we can't find out just what it is because of our lacklustre security clearance, and even I couldn't slice this.”
Satine nodded as the tram got closer. “Mhm, something called Project Starburst, whatever that is. But that's not important, love. What I need you to do is to temporarily add my face over hers and change a few details? It doesn't need to be anything stellar but enough to pass muster so it gets me past Tarkin's bodyguards.” Cora chuckled, cracking her fingers. “Of course, skipper. Ace pilot, genius slicer and your girlfriend at your service. I can have it all finished in 10 minutes.” Satine smiled as the tram slid into place, the large doors opening with a gust of escaping air. “Thanks, love…” she replied, striding into the waiting tram with a small crowd. “...and while you're at it, patch into the estate's security net. I need eyes in that place.” Cora laughed. “Already done, babe. I did all that while you relieved the good Doctor of her clothes.” The redhead grinned. “That's my girl, always one step ahead. Now I’m going into the Nexu’s den. Wish me luck.” Feeling the tug behind her navel, Satine held onto the rail above as the tram lurched back out of the station towards Tarkin's fortress.
Tarkin's Estate, 11:29am
Using her disguise and borrowed identity Satine emerged from the tram striding towards the first checkpoint manned by a young female security officer. “Good morning doctor. Please present your ID for inspection.” Satine sighed, putting on a show of the impatient Dr Maddox. “Is this all really necessary, officer? I have been waiting for the last hour for the tram to get fixed and I’m already running late for my meeting with Governor Tarkin!” She shouted, taking her doctored credentials and scanning them, stamping her foot angrily for emphasis.” The young guard recoiled back nervously. “Er…yes Dr Maddox.” The blonde said, glancing down at her screen, her youthful features highlighted with green light. The Governor is quite strict when it comes to his security.” Satine pressed her advantage, smiling menacingly. “What’s your name, officer? So I might inform the Grand Moff that you're the reason I’m very late for our meeting.”
In her ear, Cora was sniggering as the young blonde guard stammered buzzing her through. “I-I’m…er…m-my name is Officer Clara Fel, ma’am.” Satine briskly walked through, false authority exuding from her. “Thank you, Officer Fel. Now get out of my way, before you waste even more of my time and the Governor's time.” Leaving the pretty officer to blush bright red with a deep breath, Satine used her photographic memory to make her way to Tarkin's war room. “I love it when you get all authoritative, babe.” The redhead smiled wickedly. “It's the best part of the job, apart from stealing the marks uniform that is.” Her face then turned serious. “But I won't be able to pull that trick with the death troopers. If I pull the impatience card with them, they're liable to shoot me.” Cora chuckled, reassuringly. “Speaking of which, I have finished with Dr Maddox's profile. For all intents and purposes you are Dr Bryn Maddox. Well at least for the day.”
Taking the stairs towards Tarkin's war room, stolen boots ringing off the black polished floor Satine breathed a sigh of relief. “That's my girl…” she paused, coming into sight of the large black durasteel doors, flanked by two tall death troopers who seemed to blend into the shadows with their imposing all black armour. The two eyed her suspiciously as she approached. “...Now here comes the moment of truth.”
11:36am
“State your name and business.” The nearest trooper said, his voice made more commanding by his helmet as his partner shifted his stance gripping his blaster. Satine confidently tilted her head. “Dr Bryn Maddox, Imperial Science Corps.” She replied, clicking her heels together and presenting her stolen credentials. “I was due for a meeting with the Governor an hour ago but I have been somewhat delayed. Thanks to maintenance issues and security hold-ups.” The Death Trooper didn't say anything, he just took her credentials and scanned it on his console, glancing down at the screen. “Dr Bryn Maddox, Imperial Science Corps. Attached to Project Starburst with Obsidian level clearance. You were due to meet Grand Moff Tarkin an hour ago.” Satine nodded. “That's correct and unfortunately I’m only getting later, with all these security measures.” She narrowed her eyes, adding a hint of impatience to her voice.
The trooper was unreadable as he handed Satine back her credentials. “Then I won't keep you any longer, Dr Maddox.” He gestured to his partner with his head to open the door before saluting her. Returning the gesture, Satine strode through the open doors, boots echoing off the black polished floor into Tarkin's inner sanctum.
The Grand Moff's War Room, 11:42am
Hearing the dull ominous thud of the doors closing behind her, Satine walked around the holographic table which displayed a slow spinning globe of Eriadu. And there sat behind his desk on a raised dais at the far end of the cavernous room, was the wiry figure of Grand Moff Tarkin. His fingers tented, Governor Wilhuff Tarkin watched her approach his desk like a kath hound sizing up his dinner.
“I take it from your uniform, Captain Falére, that the real Dr Maddox won't be making our meeting after all.” Tarkin said with his aristocratic clipped tones, gesturing to the empty chair opposite him. Satine smiled thinly, taking off Bryn's glasses and sliding into the seat. “She's somewhat…indisposed in the women's refresher down in the tram station, sleeping soundly in her underwear.” To her surprise, Tarkin nodded impressed. “I’ll also assume that you're responsible for the disappearance of scout ES-5973 and her partner? My men found them both unconscious in a compromising position, ES-5973 missing her armour, naturally.”
Satine grinned leaning back in her chair. “She was most helpful, providing me with her bike, useful intelligence and uniform, Grand Moff sir. Now I have made my observations on your security and found several areas for impr-” Tarkin held up his hand. “No need, Captain. You've probably already deduced that this is no mere security audit.” A dawning realisation hit Satine like a runaway speeder, it was a thought lingering in the back of her mind since they had left Coruscant. “This was a test. You wanted to see my skills for yourself to test me for recruitment.” Gesturing with his finger, Tarkin leaned forward. “Brennic was right, you're sharp. I would say both you and Ensign Yenner have acquitted yourselves well. Definitely Task Force Eidolon material.”
Satine crossed her legs, she had heard of the task force, they were the hidden arm of Governor Tarkin taking the fight to the Rebellion by using their own tactics against them. “ What makes you think that we're Eidolon material, sir?” Tarkin raised his thin eyebrows. “Don't be coy, Captain Falére. Your reputation speaks for itself. From stormtrooper recruit to ISB captain in seven years, most impressive.” He then placed his elbows on the desk and tented his fingers. “I have read your dossier; Satellite Base 7, Nar Shaddaa and the Kuat Drive Yards. All your accomplishments speak for themselves. You are the foremost infiltration specialist in the Empire, and Brennic is wasting your potential. When you can be so much more.”
Satine shifted in her chair, Tarkin's words were hitting home. “The work I do with Brennic in the Office of Internal Efficiency is important, sir. Lest the rebels strike us at our weakest points.” She answered but didn't sound convinced. Tarkin smiled, pressing his advantage. “Don't you wish to take the fight back to the Rebellion? Were they not responsible for the murder of squad Delta-9 and your lover, Jan Kimball.” Satine shuddered as Tarkin twisted the knife.
Suddenly a flood of memories hit her; the ambush on Jedha, her killing the rebel girl and stripping her corpse, the last time she saw Jan, mind broken before plunging the vibroblade into her and freeing her from her torment…
“Don’t you wish to avenge their deaths, Captain? To make the galaxy a safer, more peaceful place. To restore Order?” Tarkin's voice shook her from her thoughts. Satine shook the tears from her eyes. “Yes, Governor Tarkin. It's why I joined the Empire to achieve what the Old Republic could not.” Tarkin reached over with an open palm. “Then join Eidolon and together we can restore Order to a chaotic galaxy. And do what you were trained to do.”
Satine hesitated for just a moment, weighing up her options. “It sounds like a no brainer, babe.” Cora chimed in her ear. “Traveling round the galaxy with you and sticking it to the Rebellion? Restoring Order? There is nowhere else I’d rather be.” Satine smiled at her words before reaching over and shaking Tarkin's hand. “Alright, Governor. Consider me recruited.” Tarkin nodded, a ghost of a smile betraying his lips. “A wise decision, Captain Falére. Great things are beginning, I can promise you that.” Leaning back into her chair, Satine's mind cast back to the curious look Brennic had given her; He was saying farewell in his way. She thought Brennic knew I’d accept Tarkin's offer. I enjoyed the work but I feel ready to take the fight to the Rebellion again. In her ear, Cora let out a low whistle. “It looks like we're back in the big leads, eh babe?”
The War Room, Estate of Governor Wilhuff Tarkin, Eriadu, Core Systems 11:00am, 3BBY
“Have you made the necessary preparations, Director Brennic?” Asked Grand Moff Tarkin as he sat behind his desk, tenting his fingers. Opposite him, the blue shimmering hologram of Nils Brennic nodded. “Yes, Grand Moff. I just need to present her with the mission brief and she'll be good to go.” The edges of the Grand Moff's mouth twitched. “Very good, I look forward to meeting Captain Falére in person and seeing her in action.” Brennic tucked his hands behind his back, as Tarkin rose from his desk, raising a curious eyebrow. “Is there something further you wish to add, Director?” Brennic sighed. “I only wish to repeat my misgivings about taking Sat-Captain Falére from her vital work of shoring up the security of our bases, Governor.”
Tarkin ground his teeth before replying in his clipped, aristocratic tones. “Might I remind you, Director Brennic, that Captain Falére was one of our best intelligence assets, before you had her reassigned to your department. A department that has wasted her abilities on trivialities like infiltrating our own bases. What do you have to say for yourself?” Tarkin gestured with his finger before walking over to gaze on the misty crags of his homeworld, his back to him. The grizzled ISB director's holo flickered. “That the security of our bases must take priority, and Satine is on the front line ensuring the rebels cannot strike at us from the rear.” Tarkin shook his head. “With respect, Director, I disagree. You've wasted Captain Falére’s skills unnecessarily that offers us no tactical advantage over the Rebellion, where she would be better served as an Eidolon agent taking the fight to them.” He said over his shoulder. “Is there anything further?”
Resigned Brennic shook his head. “No Grand Moff. I shall take my leave, good day.” As the hologram of the Director shut off, Tarkin smiled thinly looking forward to the prospect of acquiring a gifted young agent.
The Apartment of Satine Falére and Cora Yenner, Apartment 405, Northern Financial District, the Same Moment
“You know for a highly decorated Imperial pilot, Cora, you have brought a lot with you?” Satine said as she helped her lover Cora unpack her personal effects. The Pantoran shrugged, a smile reaching her big blue eyes. “Well you get shipped from place to place, you pick up a few things. Surely, you understand skipper?” Satine nodded, she knew all too well. Looking down at a small medal case, she noticed a holo-picture tucked in beside it. “Who’s this, Cora? An ex-girlfriend of yours?” The holo depicted a much younger Cora arm in arm beaming with a strikingly beautiful young woman, also smiling with long tied back raven coloured hair, with a single silver strip from the centre parting and vivid violet coloured eyes. Both were dressed in the black off duty uniform of TIE cadets, against a backdrop of a bustling neon lit street which Satine guessed was Corulag.
Walking over to her, Cora let out a surprised gasp. “I thought I lost this, thanks for finding it babe.” She gently took the holo, smiling. “You could say that. That's Dendra Vess, my dearest friend from the academy and yes I did sleep with her, twice actually. This was taken the night before we were shipped out; she was deployed to the 103rd Fighter Wing on the ISD Victory and I got the 201st.” She breathed wistfully. “I miss her, I hope she's alright the rebels have been quite active in the Elrood Sector, lately.” Satine gently squeezed her shoulder. “I’m sure she's okay, Cora. What was she like?” Cora giggled while taking a seat on the sofa, Satine joined her hunching up close. “A damn good kisser and the sex was electric but really she was the best friend a girl could wish for. She was a rich military brat from Vardos but she sure didn't like it. Dendra told me that she admired me from afar and had fallen head over heels in love, in the 6 months of our training.” Satine put her arm around her. “Then what stopped you? I heard that TIE pilots have less personal restrictions than stormtroopers.
Cora sniffed. “My roving eyes, that's what stopped me. I had already fallen for a local girl Callie, a nice girl and a transport technician but she dumped me the night I graduated. I remember getting piss drunk with Dendra and the rest of our training wing, then we started to kiss and then the morning after we had sex she came out to me…” Satine nodded in understanding. “Unrequited love, I know the feeling. By the time you realised your feelings it was too late.” Cora then kissed her softly but passionately on her lips. “Thank you, Satine…” Cora said, pulling out gently. “...it's good to have something of the past to remind us where we are going next.” The redhead rubbed her nose playfully on Cora's. “I love you, Cora Yenner.” The Pantoran kissed her again. “Love you too, Satine Falére. You impossibly hot redhead. The sound of bleeping drew their attention to Satine's comm-link resting on the table. “No rest for the wicked.” Satine sighed, scooping it up, as Cora leaned forward.
“Falére? It's Director Brennic. I know you're on leave with Yenner but I’ve got a job for you, and it's big. Bigger than the Fleet Headquarters.” Satine nodded, switching it on loudspeaker for Cora. “Alright, Director let's hear it.” There was a slight pause. “I’ll need you to come into the office, I’d rather not discuss this on an open channel.” Satine and Cora looked at each other, raising their eyebrows. “You got it, Sir. I can be there in half an hour.” Thanking her, Brennic shut off the comm. “Well, Patch sounds more serious than usual.” Cora said as Satine kissed her on the cheek and left for her bedroom to put on her uniform. “Hmm? I wonder what could be bigger than the Imperial Fleet?” Mused Satine, stripping off her clothes and heading into the refresher.
The Office of Director Nils Brennic, 50th Floor, Imperial Security Bureau, 11:35am
“Falére, good to see you. Sorry about interrupting your leave, but this comes straight from the top.” Director Nils Brennic offered Satine the seat opposite him. “Director. You said something over the comm-link about this being bigger than the Fleet Headquarters sting.” Brennic nodded, handing her a datapad and holo-projector. “How does preventing a possible attempt on the life of Grand Moff Tarkin sound?” Glancing at the datapad, Satine smiled. “Tell me more, sir.”
Brennic leaned back in his chair, sipping on a mug of steaming caf. “Our listening post on Sulon intercepted chatter from the Rebellion; we have credible intelligence to believe that a threat against the life of Governor Tarkin may be imminent.” Satine crossed her legs. “With respect sir, Tarkin happens to be one of the most protected men in the galaxy, apart from the Emperor. He is guarded by elite death troopers, high end surveillance equipment and the most sophisticated security network in the core words.” She took a sip from her caf. “The rebels would be foolish to try it. Except if they have any skilled infiltrators in their ranks, like yours truly.” She smiled confidently, sipping her beverage .
Brennic leaned forward, elbows on his desk. “Which brings me to the reason why I pulled you from your break, Falére. The Governor himself requested you and you specifically, to run an unannounced security audit, to guarantee his safety in the event that these threats are genuine.” The corners of her mouth twitched before she took a measure of caf. “Well, I did get his attention when I broke into the Fortis Inquisitorus. Perhaps this is his way of testing us, testing me?” The director grinned, his eyes flashing with pride. “That's one of the things that never cease to amaze me about you Falére; nothing gets past you.” Satine laughed, setting down her empty mug. “So what's the objective? I infiltrate Tarkin’s estate in disguise, breach his security and present my report to him personally?”
The Director leaned back. “That pretty much sums everything, Falére. On that holo, are the schematics of the estate, including the cable car system which is the only way in or out of the facility. Use it to plan your route to the Grand Moff.” Shaking his hand, Satine rose from her chair but Brennic forestalled her with a warning hand. “Satine. Be careful and watch your back, if you are caught by the death troopers, they will shoot to kill before you have a chance to flash your ID.” Her brow furrowed at his use of her given name and there was an odd look in his eye, pride mixed in with sadness. “Don't worry sir, I’ll make sure this doesn't turn into another Aldhani.” Flashing him a salute, Satine turned on her heel and strode from his office. “Good luck, Satine...” He called back to her departing shoulders. “...and goodbye.” He sighed wistfully under his breath.
The Personal Quarters of Captain Satine Falére and Cora Yenner, the Shadow Vane, in Hyperspace 18:00pm Coruscant Time
“So we're actually going to infiltrate the headquarters of Grand Moff Chuckles himself? Talk about living dangerously, skipper.” Cora said gently rubbing Satine's shoulders, as they sat on her bed reviewing the estate's schematics. Satine smiled gently leaning into the caresses, purring with contentment. “And by his personal invitation, no less. Since he apparently fears for his life. But I can't help thinking that there's more to this than what Brennic told us.” Cora kissed her on the cheek. “Well you did get Old Chuckles attention when we broke into the Fortis Inquisitorus. Maybe this is what he meant when he said ‘good things in your future.’” she said in a good impersonation of Governor Tarkin. Laughing, Satine leaned back gently, kissing the Pantoran softly on the lips. “You know you sound just like him, love.” Giggling, the two women turned their interest to the hologram on their bed.
“So there's only one way into Tarkin’s fortress, Cora, and that's through the cable car station. The fortress itself is on one of the highest peaks on Eriadu, so climbing it is out of the question unless I want to get spotted and blasted off the side of the mountain by the TIE fighter patrols.” Cora nodded. “So you go through the most direct route, the checkpoint in disguise by taking out a scouttrooper, stealing her armour and taking the tram up.” Satine smiled. “Good call, love. But I’ll need an officer's uniform and clearance to access the tram, they won't let a grunt scouttrooper on there.” Nodding, Cora looked up at the imposing holographic fortress on the hill. “But once you get inside that place, you'll be on your own babe.” There was concern in her voice, switching off the hologram Satine turned to face her.
“Don't worry, Cora…” she gently caressed her pilot's cheek. “...I’ll do what I always do, improvise.” The Pantoran grinned gently, parting a loose strand of Satine's auburn hair. “And I will be right there in your ear, the whole way babe.” She leaned in passionately kissing Satine, who returned it with equal enthusiasm. “I wouldn't have it any other way, my love.” Giggling she pulled Cora onto the bed and the two lovers gave into sheer carnal pleasure.
Western Highlands, Eriadu, 5 klicks from The Estate of Grand Moff Tarkin, 10:00am local time.
“This is about as close as I get you to the estate, babe, without attracting the attention of the fighter and scout patrols.” Cora said as Satine readed her rappel wire. She had parked the Adjudicator on the top of a small plateau, close enough to the estate but far enough below the notice of any patrol. Securing the wire onto a clip around her waist, Satine kissed her lover on her blue cheek. “Good work, Cora. It's better this way, I don't want you to risk yourself just to give me a head start.” Making sure her guide wire was secure, Satine looked out at the foreboding peaks, shrouded by bleak mists towards the Grand Moff’s bastion that stood out like an imposing permacrete beacon. She sighed. “What a depressing place, Cora. Just about as cheerless as the man himself. This serves as a natural defensive measure in and of itself.” The Pantoran giggled.
“Well you have to hand it to Old Chuckles, he does have a sense for the dramatic even if he doesn't know.” The women laughed as the telltale high pitch drone of speeder bikes pierced through the gloom below them. Flashing her a wink, Cora gave her a passionate kiss which Satine returned hungrily. “I love you. Go get them, skipper.” Standing over the edge of the plateau, Satine blew her kiss. “I’ll be back before you know it, my love.” With that she leapt over the side and began her descent, mind going back to the time she and her father used to go hiking together in Naboo's Northern Foothills.
The Canyon Floor, 4 klicks from Tarkin's Fortress, 10:20am
Cutting through the thick morass of morning mist, like hot knives through butter, scout trooper ES-5973 or Keili Brandt from Kestrel's Fold sat astride her speeder with her partner and boyfriend ES-286 or Hal Onasi from Telos IV next to her. Underneath her helmet, Keili was an attractive girl of 21 with lightly freckled rounded features, high cheekbones and light turquoise coloured eyes; framed by light chestnut coloured hair cut into a functional bob. Looks city boy Hal had called the “Cute farm girl next door, look.” Finding their usual make out spot that they had discovered during their morning patrol, the two young lovers set down their speeders and took off their helmets.
“Looking good, handsome.” Keili giggled seeing the squared jawed blonde eyed, blue eyed visage of her lover Hal. “You're not looking too bad yourself, babe.” He replied leaning across and kissing Keili’s cheek. The girl smiled, caressing his face but her face turned grave. “Hal. You don't think Sergeant Bray is getting wise to us? I mean we had a close shave in the barracks the other night and…” Hal gently put a finger on her lips. “You worry too much, Kel. If Bray did see something and reported it, then he wouldn't have put us on this detail, now would he?” Keili breathed a sigh of relief as her lover took her hand. “Yeah, you're right. Oh Hal, why can't we get a transfer to somewhere like Corulag where we won't have to tread on eggshells and fly through this bloody fog.” Hal chuckled gently, kissing her knuckles through her glove. “Let's get back to base and then we see about putting in for that transfer.” Nodding and gasping in pleasure, Keili leaned in to passionately kiss her boyfriend before a clicking sound from behind them drew their attention.
Keili gasped in shock. “By the stars, what was that Hal?” Instinctively, Hal drew his ankle blaster and jumped off his speeder, facing the threat. “Stay here, Kel, I’ll go check it out. Stay here and if I don't come back, call it in.” Squeezing his lover's hand, Hal disappeared into the mist, blaster raised. Panicking slightly, the young scout trooper drew her own blaster. “Wait, Hal! I should go with you! Don't leave me on my own!” Breathing heavily, her eyes scanned around wondering if there were rebels concealed in the fog.
Hal Onasi peered through the mist, kicking himself for not grabbing his helmet; the built-in thermal vision mode would have come in handy seeing through the morass. “Who the hell's out there?! Is that you ES-578? You spying again for Sergeant Bray? You wait until I get you in my sights, you bastard.” As he rounded the rocks, expecting to see the crouched form of ES-578 Hal felt a slender hand clamp around his mouth, followed by an electric shock that travelled from under his armpit and into his CNS. He grunting muffled, convulsing until he collapsed unconscious into Satine's arms.
“Apologies trooper, but you really should pick a better make out spot than this in the future.” Satine quipped, dragging the man behind the rock. “And trooper. Your girlfriend will be joining you presently, and lucky for you, I’ll be relieving her of her armour.” She said winking at the sleeping scout. With her Bothan stunner still humming in hand, Satine crept silently through the mist towards the fidgeting Keili.
Keili was getting nervous, Hal hadn't called back and she was worried that he may have been ambushed by rebels or worse. “Hal?! Hal?! Where are you, dammit?!” She shouted over her shoulder, equal parts concern and fear. Taking deep forceful breaths, Keili remembered what Hal told her. Calm down Keili. Hal said if he doesn't come back then call it in and get back up. Her hand hovered over the speeders commlink. But if I do that then Sergeant Bray has what he needs to get us separated. Suddenly, before she could make up her mind Keili squeaked in surprise as she felt an arm snake around her slender throat, hauling her up in a stress position. She groped for her blaster but her attacker coiled her arm tighter around her throat, making Keili choke in pain.
“I wouldn't do that if I were you, trooper.” Hissed a female voice in her ear. “Now gently toss your blaster and suddenly move or I will break your neck, understood?” Keili whimpered at the voice making a half hearted nod. “W-who are you? And what have you done with Hal? Y-you haven't killed him have you.” She replied tears beginning to well in her big pretty ears, as she reached down to toss her blaster. The woman chuckled. “Don't worry, I’m not going to hurt you. Your boyfriend is just sleeping. Play your Sabacc right and you may just join him.” The young trooper breathed a sigh of relief. “W-wait? Is this a training op? Did Sergeant Bray put you up to this?” She choked.
Satine reacted quickly. “Damn it, command. It looks like the Loth-cat is out of the bag. What should I ask the trooper?” In her ear Cora played her part well. “Start with the basics, babe. The cutie has to have a name.” Satine grinned, loosening her grip slightly to let the trooper speak. “Sergeant Bray didn't send me, this comes straight from command. And they want to know your name, for the record.” The young brunette blinked the tears from her eyes. “Uh…Keili Brandt, Scout Trooper private. Designation ES-5973, ma'am.” She answered nervously but briskly.
“You got all that command?” In Satine's ear, Cora giggled. “Yep, now let's find out the enemy's strength.” Satine nodded, turning back to Keili. “Okay private; How many troopers guard the checkpoint? And their procedures? Quickly now.” She coiled her arm around Keili's neck for emphasis, the trooper squirmed whimpering in pain and fear. “Alright, alright. Just don't hurt me or Hal. There's three stormtroopers manning the checkpoint into the tram station, and all they check is trooper designations. No facial biometric sweeps. That's all I swear!”
Satine smiled, taking out a syringe full of sedatives from her pack. “That's all I need, and Command thanks you for your cooperation, Private Brandt. But I'm afraid I'll be needing a couple of more things from you. Namely your uniform and your speeder.” She pulled off the cap with her teeth, plunging it into Keili’s carotid. “Ow! What?! Why do you want my unifo-uhhh…?” The young scout slurred as the drug travelled through her bloodstream into her brain. With a low sigh, Keili slumped unconscious into Satine's arms. Satine caressed the sleeping girl's comely face. “It's nothing personal, sweetie. Besides, you'll be sleeping with your honey.” Laughing, she took Keili under her arms dragging her towards the rock, where her boyfriend waited.
“You know Cora? They do make a really cute couple.” Quipped, Satine as she finished getting dressed in Keili’s armour, looking down on the sleeping girl who she had draped over her unconscious boyfriend, their lips brushing closely. Under her armour, Keili had a tight slim body emphasised by the standard issue white ribbed vest and black panties she now wore. Her C-cup breasts staining against the thin fabric, nipples peeking through. Cora giggled in her ear. “A little like us, eh Skipper? You did a decent thing putting them together.”
Satine smiled wistfully making her way back to Keili’s parked speeder, her mind casting back to the secret trysts she and Jan shared during their 6 months on Jedha. “I know what it's like, Cora, to keep a hidden affair going when you share the same barracks with the one you love. You take all the moments you can get.” Straddling the bike, Satine holstered the scouts' discarded blaster before placing the helmet over her head. “ How did you cope, babe. If you don't mind my asking?” Satine snapped down the helmet's visor, then gunned the speeder's engine. “Delta-9 was a family. In the end we all looked out for each other.” With that she twisted the throttle, speeding towards Tarkin's estate.
Tram Station Checkpoint, 10:36am
Coming towards the electrified barrier, which was visible through the thermal optics of her stolen helmet, Satine gently eased the throttle down. In front of her three stormtroopers manned check, one on the tower to the right while two flagged Satine down, standing on either side of the speeder, one wearing the white shoulder pad of a corporal. “Just a minute trooper. What's your designation and assignment?” He asked, a deep voice made imposing by his helmet. Satine leaned back, snapping off a quick but parade ready salute. “Scout Private ES-5973, corporal sir. I’m currently running perimeter sweeps with my partner ES-286.” The corporal glanced at his slightly smaller sub-ordinate who spoke up. “Then why are you here, trooper and not on duty with your partner? Where is he?” Stated the woman, gripping her blaster.Satine took a deep breath. “He's back on the perimeter with a faulty comms unit thanks to the damned mist. He sent me back to grab a mechnik to make in field repairs.” She lied, keeping her voice straight and level all the better to sell the lie.
The tall Corporal facepalmed and sighed. “Damn this bloody weather! We burn through more commlinks than the entire Imperial Army!” He gestured up to the trooper on the tower, with a throat slice. Behind him the electrified barrier faded. “Go on in trooper, we can't have faulty comms, not when we're guarding the Grand Moff!” The corporal added standing aside to admit her. “Thank you, corporal.” Satine saluted the man before gently gunning the throttle and driving forwards past the checkpoint.
Parking up the speeder bike, Satine looked up at Tarkin's fortress which loomed just visible on the tallest peak, shrouded in mist. Above her the familiar roar of Twin Ion Engines cut through the morning haze, a TIE Fighter on a low fly past above the tram station. “There's nothing quite that sound, babe. When I first heard the sound of those engines, I knew I was home.” Came Cora’s awestruck voice through Satine's earpiece. Chuckling, the redhead walked up the stairs into the tramway station.
The Tram Station, 10:45 am
“So you still need a disguise to get onto the tram and up to see Chuckles. What do you see babe?” Asked Cora as Satine scanned the surprisingly sparse platform, seeing mostly male officers and patrolling stormtroopers. Both which Satine discounted. “Look, I’ve been waiting for the past hour. My name is Doctor Bryn Maddox and I’ve a meeting with the Grand Moff which I’m already late for.” Said a nearby female voice impatiently from behind her. Satine turned to see a young, slim attractive brunette woman in her mid twenties wearing an imperial science uniform; a navy blue and grey belted tunic with navy trousers and black leather jackboots, the sigil of the Imperial science corps stitched into her left shoulder. She was holding a metal briefcase. The girl was prim and professional, with smooth heart shaped features, classical tapered cheekbones and big brown doe shaped eyes framed by square wire framed spectacles. The doctor's long dark brown hair was tied into an elegant functional ponytail. Satine smiled. She's definitely my size. And I don't believe I’ve worn that particular uniform, this should be interesting… “Disguise at 12’o clock, Cora. And she's a looker.” In her ear, Cora laughed. “You always know how to pick them, babe.”
The stormtrooper Bryn was talking to, shrugged. “I’m sorry doc, but the trams have been running behind all morning due to a maintenance issue. So you might as well get comfortable.” The doctor stamped her foot angrily. “Dammit, trooper. This is about Project Starburst and what I have to show Director Tarkin is for his eyes only!” The trooper shook his head. “And am I supposed to know what a Project Starburst is? Sorry doc you'll just have to wait for the next tram, whenever that is.” Tutting her disappointment, Dr Maddox turned on her heel heading towards the direction of the ladies bathroom. “Acquiring disguise, love. I’ll be out of contact for 15 minutes, talk to you soon.” Satine said following hard on Dr Maddox's heels. “Take her down gently, babe.” Giggled Cora.
The Ladies Bathroom, 10:56am
Dr Bryn Maddox sighed as she washed and dried her hands in the refresher. Damn this place, it's falling apart. It may be the Grand Moff's bastion but he can't afford to skimp on maintenance. Or the Rebellion will be the least of his worries. She looked up in the mirror, jumping with a gasp at the sight of a scout trooper standing right behind her. “Oh by the stars! Don't do that, trooper, I didn't hear you enter.” She hesitated slightly seeing the woman, cock her helmet. “Um, why are you looking at me like that? Is the tram on its way?” The trooper shook her head. “Sorry Doc, I’m afraid you won't be making that meeting with Governor Tarkin. I will be in your place, but I need your uniform.” Bryn recoiled back in horror. “Wha-mmmph?!” She cried as the troopers hand clamped across her mouth to muffle her screams.
Bryn tried to struggle as she was pulled to her right by her attacker, exposing her slender neck but the trooper was too strong. “Shh, it's alright doc just a little electric shock and you're straight to sleep. Just don't struggle too hard or it will hurt more.” The trooper hissed, flicking out a Bothan stunner, pressing it to Bryn's vagus nerve and thumbing the medium setting. Bryn let out a muffled scream, squirming in pain as the electricity flowed through her nerves towards her Central Nervous System, booted feet scraping off the tiled floor. The scientist in her, knowing that unconsciousness would follow in as little as 30 seconds. Then with a low pained sigh, the young Doctor slumped unconscious into the scout troopers arms.
Catching the limp scientist under her shoulders, Satine dragged the unconscious girl into the waiting cubicle behind her and sat her down on the empty bowl. “So is a cutie, skipper? I happen to have a soft spot for nerdy girls, particularly redheaded ones.” Teased Cora as Satine pulled off her scout trooper helmet, taking a deep breath. “Are you saying I’m a geek, Cora? I’ll take it as a compliment, love.” Cora giggled. “ You're smart as a whip, beautiful as a Pantoran moon and you look great naked. I’m sure she isn't a patch on you babe.” Kneeling by the unconscious Dr Maddox and pulling off her jackboots, along with her white cotton ankle socks, Satine blew her Pantoran lover a kiss. “Flatterer.”
Unclipping Bryn’s belt from around her slim waist and straddling the sleeping woman, Satine unfastened the woman's tunic, opening it out and slipping it off the scientist's shoulders, one arm at a time. “The good doctor does have a nice body Cora, but she's not blue enough for me.” The redhead quipped, taking in the sight of Dr Maddox's lush C-cup breasts enveloped in a blue plunge bra with white lace trim. “Glad to hear it, babe.” Chuckling, Satine unzipped Bryn's trousers, working them off her slender hips and whipping them down past her long legs, exposing a matching thong that protected the good doctor's modesty, leaving her legs spread.
After stripping out of her stolen scout trooper armour, Satine quickly got dressed in Bryn’s uniform before taking off her glasses and putting them on, luckily finding that they were just for reading and not distance. She then loosened Bryn’s hair tie, adopting a small ponytail. Leaving the cubicle, Satine took out Dr Maddox’s credentials and used Iona, slicing them to instead have her likeness. Thanking the little droid, she stored it into Bryn's briefcase then left the bathroom.
The Tramway Station, 11:06am
Standing on the terminal, Satine smiled thinly as the tram descended through the mists from the fortress. As an afterthought, she keyed in her hair piece. “Cora? Could you slice into the Imperial Science Corps database and find Dr Bryn Maddox? She's the woman I just replaced.” She asked in hushed whispers, taking care to keep her hand from her ear. Cora's dulcet tones answered briskly. “Of course babe. One of the fringe benefits of working with the ISB, they have the best software credits you can buy…” There was a slight pause. “There. Well, well. Looks like your girl was into some top secret shit. Unfortunately we can't find out just what it is because of our lacklustre security clearance, and even I couldn't slice this.”
Satine nodded as the tram got closer. “Mhm, something called Project Starburst, whatever that is. But that's not important, love. What I need you to do is to temporarily add my face over hers and change a few details? It doesn't need to be anything stellar but enough to pass muster so it gets me past Tarkin's bodyguards.” Cora chuckled, cracking her fingers. “Of course, skipper. Ace pilot, genius slicer and your girlfriend at your service. I can have it all finished in 10 minutes.” Satine smiled as the tram slid into place, the large doors opening with a gust of escaping air. “Thanks, love…” she replied, striding into the waiting tram with a small crowd. “...and while you're at it, patch into the estate's security net. I need eyes in that place.” Cora laughed. “Already done, babe. I did all that while you relieved the good Doctor of her clothes.” The redhead grinned. “That's my girl, always one step ahead. Now I’m going into the Nexu’s den. Wish me luck.” Feeling the tug behind her navel, Satine held onto the rail above as the tram lurched back out of the station towards Tarkin's fortress.
Tarkin's Estate, 11:29am
Using her disguise and borrowed identity Satine emerged from the tram striding towards the first checkpoint manned by a young female security officer. “Good morning doctor. Please present your ID for inspection.” Satine sighed, putting on a show of the impatient Dr Maddox. “Is this all really necessary, officer? I have been waiting for the last hour for the tram to get fixed and I’m already running late for my meeting with Governor Tarkin!” She shouted, taking her doctored credentials and scanning them, stamping her foot angrily for emphasis.” The young guard recoiled back nervously. “Er…yes Dr Maddox.” The blonde said, glancing down at her screen, her youthful features highlighted with green light. The Governor is quite strict when it comes to his security.” Satine pressed her advantage, smiling menacingly. “What’s your name, officer? So I might inform the Grand Moff that you're the reason I’m very late for our meeting.”
In her ear, Cora was sniggering as the young blonde guard stammered buzzing her through. “I-I’m…er…m-my name is Officer Clara Fel, ma’am.” Satine briskly walked through, false authority exuding from her. “Thank you, Officer Fel. Now get out of my way, before you waste even more of my time and the Governor's time.” Leaving the pretty officer to blush bright red with a deep breath, Satine used her photographic memory to make her way to Tarkin's war room. “I love it when you get all authoritative, babe.” The redhead smiled wickedly. “It's the best part of the job, apart from stealing the marks uniform that is.” Her face then turned serious. “But I won't be able to pull that trick with the death troopers. If I pull the impatience card with them, they're liable to shoot me.” Cora chuckled, reassuringly. “Speaking of which, I have finished with Dr Maddox's profile. For all intents and purposes you are Dr Bryn Maddox. Well at least for the day.”
Taking the stairs towards Tarkin's war room, stolen boots ringing off the black polished floor Satine breathed a sigh of relief. “That's my girl…” she paused, coming into sight of the large black durasteel doors, flanked by two tall death troopers who seemed to blend into the shadows with their imposing all black armour. The two eyed her suspiciously as she approached. “...Now here comes the moment of truth.”
11:36am
“State your name and business.” The nearest trooper said, his voice made more commanding by his helmet as his partner shifted his stance gripping his blaster. Satine confidently tilted her head. “Dr Bryn Maddox, Imperial Science Corps.” She replied, clicking her heels together and presenting her stolen credentials. “I was due for a meeting with the Governor an hour ago but I have been somewhat delayed. Thanks to maintenance issues and security hold-ups.” The Death Trooper didn't say anything, he just took her credentials and scanned it on his console, glancing down at the screen. “Dr Bryn Maddox, Imperial Science Corps. Attached to Project Starburst with Obsidian level clearance. You were due to meet Grand Moff Tarkin an hour ago.” Satine nodded. “That's correct and unfortunately I’m only getting later, with all these security measures.” She narrowed her eyes, adding a hint of impatience to her voice.
The trooper was unreadable as he handed Satine back her credentials. “Then I won't keep you any longer, Dr Maddox.” He gestured to his partner with his head to open the door before saluting her. Returning the gesture, Satine strode through the open doors, boots echoing off the black polished floor into Tarkin's inner sanctum.
The Grand Moff's War Room, 11:42am
Hearing the dull ominous thud of the doors closing behind her, Satine walked around the holographic table which displayed a slow spinning globe of Eriadu. And there sat behind his desk on a raised dais at the far end of the cavernous room, was the wiry figure of Grand Moff Tarkin. His fingers tented, Governor Wilhuff Tarkin watched her approach his desk like a kath hound sizing up his dinner.
“I take it from your uniform, Captain Falére, that the real Dr Maddox won't be making our meeting after all.” Tarkin said with his aristocratic clipped tones, gesturing to the empty chair opposite him. Satine smiled thinly, taking off Bryn's glasses and sliding into the seat. “She's somewhat…indisposed in the women's refresher down in the tram station, sleeping soundly in her underwear.” To her surprise, Tarkin nodded impressed. “I’ll also assume that you're responsible for the disappearance of scout ES-5973 and her partner? My men found them both unconscious in a compromising position, ES-5973 missing her armour, naturally.”
Satine grinned leaning back in her chair. “She was most helpful, providing me with her bike, useful intelligence and uniform, Grand Moff sir. Now I have made my observations on your security and found several areas for impr-” Tarkin held up his hand. “No need, Captain. You've probably already deduced that this is no mere security audit.” A dawning realisation hit Satine like a runaway speeder, it was a thought lingering in the back of her mind since they had left Coruscant. “This was a test. You wanted to see my skills for yourself to test me for recruitment.” Gesturing with his finger, Tarkin leaned forward. “Brennic was right, you're sharp. I would say both you and Ensign Yenner have acquitted yourselves well. Definitely Task Force Eidolon material.”
Satine crossed her legs, she had heard of the task force, they were the hidden arm of Governor Tarkin taking the fight to the Rebellion by using their own tactics against them. “ What makes you think that we're Eidolon material, sir?” Tarkin raised his thin eyebrows. “Don't be coy, Captain Falére. Your reputation speaks for itself. From stormtrooper recruit to ISB captain in seven years, most impressive.” He then placed his elbows on the desk and tented his fingers. “I have read your dossier; Satellite Base 7, Nar Shaddaa and the Kuat Drive Yards. All your accomplishments speak for themselves. You are the foremost infiltration specialist in the Empire, and Brennic is wasting your potential. When you can be so much more.”
Satine shifted in her chair, Tarkin's words were hitting home. “The work I do with Brennic in the Office of Internal Efficiency is important, sir. Lest the rebels strike us at our weakest points.” She answered but didn't sound convinced. Tarkin smiled, pressing his advantage. “Don't you wish to take the fight back to the Rebellion? Were they not responsible for the murder of squad Delta-9 and your lover, Jan Kimball.” Satine shuddered as Tarkin twisted the knife.
Suddenly a flood of memories hit her; the ambush on Jedha, her killing the rebel girl and stripping her corpse, the last time she saw Jan, mind broken before plunging the vibroblade into her and freeing her from her torment…
“Don’t you wish to avenge their deaths, Captain? To make the galaxy a safer, more peaceful place. To restore Order?” Tarkin's voice shook her from her thoughts. Satine shook the tears from her eyes. “Yes, Governor Tarkin. It's why I joined the Empire to achieve what the Old Republic could not.” Tarkin reached over with an open palm. “Then join Eidolon and together we can restore Order to a chaotic galaxy. And do what you were trained to do.”
Satine hesitated for just a moment, weighing up her options. “It sounds like a no brainer, babe.” Cora chimed in her ear. “Traveling round the galaxy with you and sticking it to the Rebellion? Restoring Order? There is nowhere else I’d rather be.” Satine smiled at her words before reaching over and shaking Tarkin's hand. “Alright, Governor. Consider me recruited.” Tarkin nodded, a ghost of a smile betraying his lips. “A wise decision, Captain Falére. Great things are beginning, I can promise you that.” Leaning back into her chair, Satine's mind cast back to the curious look Brennic had given her; He was saying farewell in his way. She thought Brennic knew I’d accept Tarkin's offer. I enjoyed the work but I feel ready to take the fight to the Rebellion again. In her ear, Cora let out a low whistle. “It looks like we're back in the big leads, eh babe?”