Leonidas and Titus had barely returned to the Lion's Gaze when a pair of armored fox beastman arrived at the hanger, their fur dyed in the crimson and gold livery of House Vesta. They bore no weapons - they did not need them. Their presence alone was a message.
"The Baron requests your presence," one said, his voice clipped and formal. "Now."
Leonidas exchanged a glance with Titus, then nodded. "Lead the way."
This had been anticipated. The two had hoped they would be ignored as they had avoided bringing any trouble upon themselves.
Baron Vesta's palace was carved into the side of a sheer cliff, overlooking the misty canyons of the Virellan Range. The architecture was elegant and sharp like the foxes who ruled it. Inside the halls were quiet, the air perfumed with incense and tension.
Baron Vesta awaited them in a sunlit chamber lined with stained glass and velvet banners. He reclined on a throne of obsidian and bone, his fur a deep russet, his eyes gleaming with intelligence and amusement.
"Leonidas Lionhart," he said, voice smooth as silk. "The prodigal cub graces us with his presence. For what purpose might I ask?"
Leonidas bowed slightly. "Baron Vesta."
"Why are you here you Lionhart. Did your lord father send you to spy on my affairs?"
"My father has no knowledge of my current whereabouts. I am merely on your world to visit a friend. A fact that could easily be proven by a investigation from your part."
Vesta rose, his robes flowing like smoke. "You must know, I cannot take it lightly when the scion of another great lord decides to frolic upon my backyard."
"No need for concern. I mean to leave by days end. I have already accomplished what I came here for." He grinned.
A servant hands the Baron a datapad to read. He stares at Leonidas then back down at the screen he had been given. "I see. This Ezran served with you at the Academy. A soldier. Very well, Leonidas. Leave my planet. You have a habit of attracting trouble, I will not have you bring it to my doorstep. Should your troubles find their way to me, I will not hesitate to remind you that foxes do bite."
Leonidas inclined his head. "Understood."
They turned and left.
As they arrived at the hanger bay, there he was waiting. Ezran had come, like Leonidas hoped he would. His gear slung over one shoulder, blaster shining.
Leonidas met him at the ramp. "You ready?"
Ezran nodded. "Let's make some noise."
Leonidas smiled. "Welcome to the crew."
As the ship lifted off, the stars opened before them vast, wild, and waiting.