Public A New Beginning for Darvannis

[Credit Wizard]

Oasis City; Darvannis.

The System of Darvannis if one was going to describe it would be a almost identical to the planet of Tatooine. The main difference between them would be that the system of Darvannis was a more nicer and friendlier place than the hive of scum and villainy that was Tatooine. There was many pirates and other criminal syndicates but that was to be expected as Darvannis is relatively unknown by the galaxy that has been engaging in never ending conflict over resources. The Planet of Darvannis itself is a hot and humid environment with sand in every direction save for the few outpost that occupied the landscape; a more interesting feature of the world is that it is devoid of any valuable natural resources or native sentiment species. This made the world unattractive to anyone and made it the perfect hideout for those looking to stay low on the planet and draw less attention to themselves or refugees that have escaped from the carnages of war; beyond that no one would have any particular reason to visit the world as it offered little to anyone. With a dense asteroid field surrounding the planet it made approach difficult for any invasion force or otherwise conquerors that looked to establish themselves on this world. In Ancient Times; The Hutt Cartel built prosperous market villas on the planet that prospered through the illegal trade of weapons and other black market goods; through this the world of Darvannis had become a an appreciated retreat for those of the hutt species, as they could avoid attention on this backwater planet.

The Settlement of Oasis City; is the only major city on the barren world besides a few small outpost in the outlying regions but communication with them is limited due to the conditions on the planet surface. Oasis City has expanded in recent years to accommodate new factories and an expanding populace that has made the city into one of the more profitable places; this advancement has been done underneath the directive of the self proclaimed "Lord President of Darvannis" Paranoda Mancheron Boggurobb. Although being ruled by the hutt families is normal for the citizens of the planet as they have been ruled over by the hutt cartel in the past; the administration of the Mancheron Kajidic over the world has greatly expanded the opportunity for many on the planet. None would challenge the self proclaimed despot of the world; as they would risk to much for little gain even though the system of governance would be better than listening to a lorda in his high desert castle much like the situation with Tatooine and the Ancient Hutt Lorda Jabba Desilijic Tiure. The city itself is covered in a dense oasis and buildings made of sandstone and durasteel that make for a normal atmosphere instead of flashy buildings one might find on the System of Coruscant or the Smuggler's Moon of Nar Shaddaa.

The Proposed "New Beginning for Darvannis" is a common slogan employed by the Mancheron Kajidic to retain power on the world. In order to fool the populace into believing that they are the best government that they can have; a strategy was employed using underhanded means. A Grand Festival of Prosperity; celebrating the 1st Anniversary of Mancheron Kajidic's influence over the world. Organized as a means of keeping his power as the Lorda of the Mancheron Kajidic and the Lord President of Darvannis, Paranoda Mancheron Boggurobb is using this to showcase his wealth & growing power in the galaxy. With the securement of the orbital dockyard construction over the world; it is an opportunity to celebrate both objectives by throwing a lavish banquet and festival to rally the populace into serving the administration without using force to accomplish such. Although in the event of this failure; the Mancheron Kajidic still had its armed merchant fleet in orbit to enforce the rules and regulations and prevent the planet from being conquered by outsiders through any means necessary even if it requires sacrifices' to be made to keep their control over the barren world. Oasis City would have been decorated in bright colored banners and decorations to reinforce the idea of a festival of prosperity; bringing a unique change to the otherwise dreary atmosphere that normally occupied the planet's capital city.

The Lord President of Darvannis; Paranoda would be inside the capital city. Hosting his own private banquet inside his reserved compound inside the settlement. The chance to have people of influence show up to this private event will better allow him to establish contacts and connections with other major galactic powers and would give him an edge over his rivals in the hutt families who have come to despise the Mancheron's Legal Way of Business through his eatery program. The program itself would be to open restaurants on major worlds and use that leal profit to fuel the growing power of mancheron and their operations without being cracked down upon by the governments of the galaxy as that is legal trade. Inside the Main Chamber was where the private banquet was being held; having countless buffet tables inside and other luxury items to keep his gathered audience happy with him and would be more open to business if they had a good time at the event that he was hosting, as Paranoda spared no expense in that department and would gladly use his fortune if it helped him in the long run as the hutt himself didn't react postivility to small term gains that could be lost at any time. As the event would be prepared by the numerous service droids that occupied the hall, Paranoda himself would write out invitations to his fellow hutts and other people of influence like he did on Sleheyron years ago before its occupation by outsiders; once done with the invitations he would have a person upload them on the holonet for people to see and maybe arrive at the event itself.

"Dear, Hutt Families & People of Influence."

"The Mancheron Kajidic invites you to the neutral planet of Darvannis for a Grand Festival of Prosperity an event of gigantic proportions. The Festival will include all the typical pleasantries one might expect at such a large event of this scale. Security has been provided for and is the best that money can buy. There is also a strict no fighting policy within the Festival Grounds and any such violation of this agreement will be met with force and the offending parties removal from the grounds of the settlement. This is a chance of a lifetime for those that wish to purchase rare goods and try out new experiences that the Mancheron Kajidic can offer you. I; Paranoda the Hutt will personally be taking request and deals with anyone who wishes to stop by and check out the festival for themselves. The Mancheron Kajidic will also provide you with anything that you need during your stay; just stop by my private compound in Oasis City for inquiry's."​

"Signed; Paranoda the Hutt, Lord President of Darvannis."

 

[James A. Rackham]

"Oi' 'aven't the foggiest idea what you're referring to mate, the las' time Oi' owned a ship was years ago. You must be mistaken, I reckon."

"<No mistake, you parked that piece of schata on my landing pad. You park, you pay Hutt's taxes. No exceptions for you, human.>"

"Captain" James Rackham rolled his eyes rather enthusiastically as the Nikto pointed angrily at him as if to emphasize his point. James put on an offended expression as he retorted: "Jus' because you keep repeating yerself, doesn' make you any more correct than you were a moment ago mate." The 'dockmaster' began cursing in Huttese with such rapid succession, it was hard even for James to follow him, clearly near his whit's end in dealing with the brigand. What the ridge-faced official didn't know, was that James had him exactly where he wanted him. "Clearly there's been some mix-up - do oi' really look like someone who would skimp on taxes of all things?" The scoundrel raised his eyebrows suggestively, as if to prove his point, and swiftly continued before the Nikto could interject: "Oi'm a man o' honor I am. My 'eart feels for the predi--- prodi--- the problem you 'ave on yer hands. What if I help in coverin' yer time spent on this?"

James tossed a pouch of credits on the Nikto's upraised datapad, with the slightly less annoyed dockmaster shifting his gaze at it. James was very good at reading people - he knew the amount in there was enough to get the man's attention, but not enough to seal the deal. He threw another, smaller pouch next to it. "Savvy?" The Nikto diverted his gaze back to James. One may wonder why James wouldn't simply pay the docking fee, which was likely less money than the amount sitting in front of the Nikto. The docking fee may pay for the space, refueling, and minor maintenance checks, but it didn't pay for discretion. Even though this was a Hutt world, he didn't want people snooping on his newly acquired ship. Not much was necessarily 'illegal' on a Hutt world such as this, but that didn't mean he wanted them knowing his business.

Clearly, this wasn't the first time someone else wanted to pay for the same privacy, as the Nikto gave James a slight nod as he deftly extricated the pouches from their perch atop his datapad, and slid them under his coat. "<The owner must have snuck past me on their way to the festival. I guess I'll need to close this landing pad to prevent anyone from sneaking back onboard.">

"Yer the boss, mate. Sounds like the ri' move to me." James winked, and gave the Nikto a broad smile. He patted the dockmaster on the shoulder and strode past him, making his way to the landing pad's exit. As it happened, he was on his way to the same festival the Nikto mentioned, in the hopes of ingratiating himself amongst Paranoda the Hutt, and perhaps even other persons of stature that could use his... talents. The galaxy may feel that James was a washed up old pirate, but he at least could still talk himself into some extra security at a starport. Hopefully he could make those credits back though - otherwise this would be a wasted trip. There may well be a problem, in that he didn't exactly have an invitation to the private event. But perhaps he could find his way inside, for a happenstance meeting?

He made his way to the compound of the event. The main entrance was apparently open to the likes of him, so as to allow for the general riff-raff to avail themselves of the goods the unique vender stalls within had to offer. There was a particularly alluring cart serving adult beverages near the entrance to the main building. Maybe one drink wouldn't hurt...

 

[Credit Wizard]

James A. Rackham

The Hutt Lorda was relaxing inside of the large audience chamber at his private event. Picking up a large bottle of boga noga and bringing it up to his lips. Sipping on it as the cool fluids would flow down into his empty gullet. Before turning and devouring some food from his private buffet table that was next to his ornately carved throne; picking up a large crab leg and shoving it down his gullet as well. His Chief of Security; a Trandoshan would walk up to the Hutt Lorda, telling him about a situation at the dockyard earlier, Although Paranoda himself knew this because no one did anything on his planet without his gaze watching them through his numerous spies in the city that owed some manner of life debt to him. Once the Chief of Security had told him the problem in full; did the Hutt Lorda of Darvannis send him away to carry on the task of patrolling the event grounds for any trouble.

Paranoda the Hutt would call forth his Ma'alkerrite Ape-man Guardsman to bring the troublemaker before himself for judgement as he was the only law that mattered here on this Retreat World. These Guardsman where in some simple terms; armored gorillas with vibroweaponry at there disposal and a few of them carried blaster carbines as their secondary weapon incase the brute force tactic didn't work. While the Guardsman left the Event Chamber; Paranoda himself would slide off of his throne and emerge into a private room for a mud bath to clean himself. Having a distaste for humanoids washing his form; he had programmed service droid to suit his needs. He would undress himself and hang his clothes aside on a bench; to dry clean them of the massive amount of slime that hutts generated. While he emerged himself into the mud pool in front of himself and relaxed. Scrubbing the areas that he could reach and leaving the rest to the service droids.

Meanwhile; the Ma'alkerrite Ape-man Guardsman would walk around the vendors stall with a photo of the person that they were looking for. Asking anyone in sight if they had seen this troublemaker and making it clear that whoever held information was going to be punished severely by them or the Lord President of Darvannis himself. How they had obtained the picture was by the camera system that Paranoda himself had set up to monitor all activity on the planet; these cameras were often hiding in plain sight but it took an extremely good eye to notice them as they blended into the background scenery. After obtaining no information that was of any use; they would proceed to the main entrance drinking stand to interrogate the people that had no doubt gathered around there as this planet was filled with drunks and low lifes.

 

[James A. Rackham]

There was nothing like rum to brighten the soul, particularly for an old space-dog like James. While he had certainly had better at other locales, this was far from the worst he had ever had either. One could tell he was in high spirits, as he was near the tail end of a joke he was sharing with whatever ears were near him by the drink stall: "...then the Garu Bear looks the hunter up and down, and says: 'Yew ain' in this for the hunting, are you?" Partially from the apparent liberal use of alcohol, and partially because of James's boisterous delivery, the small crowd around the stall burst into laughter, with a few nearby patrons nudging James on the shoulder, which nearly caused him to spill the remainder of his drink. He righted himself just in time for him to notice... walking apes?

The old pirate was well traveled, but he had seldom been in the company of Ma'alkerrite Ape-men before, particularly ones so well armed. They were rushing about in small groups, holding up a picture of some figure they were looking for to different patrons attending the festival. Naturally, James hadn't the foggiest idea that he was actually the one they were looking for, at least right now. After all, he merely negotiated different terms terms regarding the docking fee - surely that happened all of the time around these parts, yeah?

Any hopes that James may have had regarding the person not being him were soon dashed as he caught a glimpse of the picture the ape-men were holding, and noticed a few festival goers pointing in his direction after being interrogated. James' eyes darted in every direction, trying to find some way to easily slip away - but it appeared as if these ape-men were more capable than James gave credit for, given how well they covered the area. Plus, in his experience, it generally wasn't a good idea to run from a Hutt unless you already had reason to believe they wanted you dead. Sometimes, running from an audience with them, even over a petty crime, would anger them enough to issue a death sentence anyway.

Even if he had wanted to make a run for it, the proverbial 'nail' in his coffin was driven home as he heard the voice of the patron next to him speak semi loudly: "Yeah, he's over here!"

Bollucks James cursed mentally, casting a sour look at the bovine-like near-human who ratted him out. His snort-like laugh was annoying anyway. James downed the rest of his rum, wiped the excess off of his lip, then turned around with his hands up, and his most charming smile on his lips. If he was going to get manhandled and brought before a Hutt, he would at least do so with some level of dignity (while he could help it).

 

[Credit Wizard]

James A. Rackham

Once the patron had called over to them about the suspect that they were looking for. The Ma'alkerrite Ape-men guardsmen would rush over with their vibroweaponry held out in two hands. Surrounding the troublemaker with pointed vibrospears they would lead him to the Private Event Chamber; after knocking him around a little because they were bored gorillas after all. The Chamber's Main Entrance would be opened to reveal a lavish banquet hall that rivaled even the most outrageous parties on coruscant; with many buffet tables and fine dining experiences available to all inside. The Room itself was richly decorated with fine crystal statues and silk banners; the soft carpet would lead up to the personal throne of Paranoda the Hutt; who wasn't occupying it at the moment due to still being inside of his bath.

The Ape-men Guardsman would hit him on the knees; making him kneel before the throne itself. Holding their vibrospears at his neck incase he tried anything funny with the Lord President of Darvannis. A few of them would hold blaster carbines just incase the troublemaker got past the malee guardsman. A few moments would past; as the main figurehead of the event; Paranoda the Hutt would leave the bath hall and emerge back into the lavish banquet hall. He himself had not gotten redressed into his suit; as he made the decision that this person wasn't worthy of seeing him in his full regalia. Sliding himself into his rancor throne lounger; he would be an impressive sight at 10ft and 4,000 pounds of pure weight. His glowing reddish yellow eyes would peer down at him; brushing his long beard in a thinking manner before allowing the person to defend themselves in a court of law as the hutt wasn't that unreasonable that he would punish them for no reason.

While the Hutt Lorda waited for a response; the lavish banquet hall would be almost filled with important guest from around the galaxy; such as other hutt families and their retainers, corporate officials; senators and other people of influence. A service droid would come by with a tray for the Lorda of the Mancheron Kajidic; as he accepted the buffet food that was on the tray and setting it aside on his lounger to be easier to grab. Munching on the buffet food and sipping on his large containers of boga noga; while silently judging the person before him. Besides; if this person had value in them, Paranoda would gladly force them into working for him in exchange for sparring their lives from his arena section in his Palace on the outskirts of Oasis City.

 

[James A. Rackham]

Despite trying to keep himself from looking even remotely threatening, these armed Ape-men handled him about how one would expect to be handled by... well, an ape. It was a wonder in James' mind why he wasn't pissed on during the whole ordeal, but one would think they would at least be 'potty trained' if they were also expected to handle firearms and dangerous bladed weapons. Alas, despite indeed smelling like dispersing bodily fluids was their preferred method of subduing individuals, James was conveyed into the audience chamber with nary a drop of urine on his person (even his own, go figure). He was led into what appeared to be a throne-room of sorts, and non-too-gently forced James onto his knees. He wasn't bound, and wasn't stripped of his weapons, but honestly with the quantity of blade tips held mere inches from his throat, he was of the mind that only a complete imbecile would attempt any threatening action at this point. Contrary to popular belief, James was no imbecile. In fact, he was fairly well practiced in being in these types of situations. So far, he had avoided being decapitated up until now, so hopefully that trend would continue. He kept his hands where they naturally fell after being forced on his knees, namely down at his side. He kept his hands outstretched to show that he had nothing in his hands, in a clear gesture of... submission? What did apes associate that with?

Any further thought about ape mentality was cut short upon the arrival of his host - a massive Hutt with a tuft of facial hair circling his face. James did his best to appear respectful, as he knew most Hutts had a profound ego and sense of pride. It wasn't his first time dealing with a Hutt, unfortunately. As the Hutt entered, a protocol droid emerged behind him, announcing in its monotone, metallic voice: "Introducing His Excellency, Lorda of Mancheron; Paranoda the Hutt." The droid grew silent as the hulking form of the Hutt moved toward his throne, and only spoke again after he settled atop it and began munching on some food brought to him. This time, the droid directed its attention to James: "Who are you?"

James knew full well that, unlike his usual self, he had to be careful what exactly he said. His life hung on a knife's edge, and if he unintentionally hurt the Hutt in some way, it could very easily be cut short. The scoundrel swallowed, but otherwise showed no sign of fear. Instead, he gave a very broad smile that seemed out of place given his current predicament. "Captain James Rackham if ye please, yer Excellency." This time, James forwent the obligatory 'Maybe you've heard of me?' tone in his voice (and actual words, to be fair). He paused, but got the impression he was expected to say more. While he still endeavored to remain respectful, life spent as a criminal had drilled into him to never admit to something he didn't have to. "If'n I may beg yer pardon, yer Excellency - why... er... why am I here? Don't get me wrong, It certain'ly is an honor to make yer acquaintance. But I wager Oi'm not 'ere for pleasantries." James' smile waxed slightly impish as he (slowly) shrugged his shoulders.

Credit Wizard

 

[Credit Wizard]

James A. Rackham

The Hutt Lorda of Mancheron would peer down at him; watching him as he outstretched his hand as to show him that he had nothing in them. If he believed; that the Lord President of Darvannis was amused by magic tricks, he was mistaken heavily and another crime added to the already damaging crime that he was about to state to him. He was uninterested in his droid servant's proclamation of himself, why did this peasant deserve to know of his proclaimed titles that he had gained through ruthlessness and cunning in the food industry. Once the 'Captain' had given his name; did the hutt lorda pick up a bottle of boga noga and drank it. Allowing him to finish his sentence and as he did. Paranoda would clear his throat and proceed to speak to this so called "Captain James Rackham." to inform him of his crime's and give him a chance to defend himself as he wasn't a despot unlike other hutt families might be in this situation.

"You are correct about this not being for pleasantries. Captain James Rackham. You have been charged with the crime of bribery in the 8th degree. You will have the opportunity to defend yourself in a court of law; but know this that I am the Judge; Jury and Executioner. Although bribery itself is not illegal on hutt planets; bribery without my permission is a capital offense with the penalty of 15 years in the rock mines."- The Hutt Lorda would exclaim to him. Waiting for him to defend himself in front of him and would give his judgement weather to release him or force him to work in the mines for 15 years without food or water. While this was happening; the Hutt Lorda would devour some food from his private buffet table next to himself. Leaning back and brushing his long grey beard tied in locks; while he observed what the captain had to say for himself in response to these criminal charges.

Meanwhile the Private Event would be in full swing; with everyone having a good time and liking the food that was provided by the host; Paranoda Mancheron Boggurobb. As head of the Mancheron Association of Food & Beverages; the hutt lorda held a large amount of influence in the food industry and could provide any faction with top of the line food and beverage products to keep their populace fed. The Ape-men Guardsman would still be on standby with their weapons pointed at his neck; silently watching for any wrong move on the captain's part. The Blaster Wiedling Guardsman would have left though to patrol the other party guest but were always watching back over here incase of any trouble with the captain on his knees. The atmosphere near the throne was intense; but the atmosphere at the event itself was joyful and high spirit with everyone of influence enjoying themselves as the Service Droids ran around the clock to provide everyone with food and beverages and to keep everyone happy at the event itself.

 

[James A. Rackham]

Kriff... James thought as, to Paranoda's credit, they had him dead to rights. It would be foolish to deny the charges, and foolish still to feign ignorance as to when the affair happened. James' intuition inclined him to, at least to a certain degree, be contrite over the supposed slight to the Hutt's authority. "Once again, I beg yer pardon for any offense, Yer Excellency." James' voice took on a slight edge of sincere remorse, mixed with a small amount of incredulity. "However, if I may, I believe there must be some misunderstanding betwix't the instance occurring and the information presented to Yer Excellency!" Far be it to imply the Hutt was mistaken, but rather, the information presented to him being mistaken. James was careful to ensure his implication was clear, rather than implying any fault in the Hutt himself.

"While I have traveled the galaxy for more years'n I care to admit, I cannot say oi've visited this port wi' any real sense o' regularity. Based upon wha' travels I have embarked upon, it's always been moi' understandin' that when money is given... the er, 'bribe' as Yer Excellency calls it, to ensure added protection of a vessel, tha' all the people deserving of such money be given their due from the amount. T'was why I gave more than the normal amount due fer taxes, nary a copper less!" A slight shrug manifested itself on the scoundrel's shoulders - slight enough to hopefully avoid being stabbed over it. While James was definitely embellishing his reasoning for offering the credits to a certain degree, he did not speak entirely out of falsehood. In truth, he cared little what the person receiving the 'bribe' did with it provided unnecessary attention stayed off of his back. Most of those he delt with paid those deserving of that money to guarantee that. Clearly, this Nikto was either more unsavory than James and kept more for himself, or the ridge-faced scalleywag just thought to gain a laugh from James' misfortune. "I care alot about me ship, ye see - call it an ol' spacer's sentimentality. Naturally, I would be hesi'ant to imply anything unto'ard about another honest soul under yer employ - but clearly ye' 'avn't been given yer due from the money I gave. If'n it please Yer Excellency, I willingly offer myself to settle the ma'er in whatever way ye' see fit. Preferably in some other manner than these, er - rock mines, if'n it please m'lord."

James played his hand (as paltry as it was) the best he could, given the circumstances. Hopefully he didn't play it in such a way where he lost his head along with his ship. Time seemed to slow to a crawl as he awaited the Hutt's response.

Credit Wizard

 

[Bovos]

Once again the Cha'ta'ri machinist was far away from home. It seemed after the hunt of the mystic Krayt dragon the tribe became more involved in the galaxy. The Mithrax were indeed evolving, becoming larger in size and power but this brought them a major issue, an issue Bovos was sent to solve. That was his reason for arriving at this distant planet somewhere no Cha'ta'ri had yet set its feet. Darvannis a planet with quite familiar geography to the machinist. Once again Bovos found himself on a deserted planet yet the difference between Tatooine and Darvannis were vast. Bovos did however enjoy the sight of an asteroid field as he entered the atmosphere, it always evoked memories of home to see those accumulations of drifting rocks in space.

The insectoid heard about this prestigious event on the holonet a wondrous discovery he made on his search for technology. Not really understanding what the "letter" was about besides making deals with some important Hutt person he believed it would be best to just show up and discover what this was all about. Travelling with the Dropship made it possible to bring some Cha'ta'ri brethren with him as backup and protection and, he informed his tribe leader about the destination and origin of the mission. They were not fully confident in the idea but gave the machinist their praise and sent him off with other less important Cha'ta'ri. Although he was accompanied by others it would be suspicious if a large group of hooded individuals were walking together and so Bovos was alone when he approached the Oasis City.

Landing at the Banquet Bovos was tailored in a large robe covering his four large arms and insectoid like features. Not many knew about his race and he was going to make sure it stayed that way. His face was barely visible because of his oversized hood but there was no way anyone could overlook his four sky blue eyes glaring at passerby's, they were like a fire in complete darkness a bolt of lighting in during a rainy night or a star in the sky. He was not very small which made it difficult to blend in but thankfully he was not the only larger creature here. The festival was bustling with creatures of various races some Bovos had never seen or sampled before.

The gateway to the main event was wide open making it straightforward to enter. The Cha'ta'ri was sent here in peaceful conditions and was not planning on causing any turmoil which was going to bring the wrong attention. The machinist was roaming down the picturesque streets looking at shopkeepers and their produce nothing interested him he was here for business. A person of power and influence was his target someone who would have access to large numbers of slaves or whatever they were called on this planet. Someone who would not ask many questions and still be reliable.

 

[Credit Wizard]

James A. Rackham Bovos

The Hutt Lorda has listen to the Captain defend himself and try to pivot away from the charge into a simple misunderstanding between them. The Hutt Lorda had to roll his eyes at him in a short fashion; he was Nine Hundred Standard Years Old, he had used every tactic there was known to galactic kind to avoid trouble with the law. Although that should have been the end of it; he decided to be merciful for once. Why should he punish this captain for something that anyone would do under the circumstances that he presented to him through carefully picked words. And such; the hutt lorda would raise his hand to his chin to act like he was debating inside of his head about his decision, before proceeding to speak to the captain and deliver his verdict.

"Well; Since you put it that way. Then I will release you from the charges upon the condition that you pay the dockmaster all your credits that you currently have on hand. You did say that people deserve a large amount of credits for their dues, am I correct. After all protection comes at a steep price on all hutt planets and especially since you did it without my authorization in the first place. I do hope that this is a fair agreement." Exclaimed the Hutt Lorda; not giving him a choice to refuse this offer because the alternative would be to work in the rock mines for years without food or access to clean water. He would peer down at him from his throne; banging his fist against the loungers' armrest, as the ape-man guardsman would return to their neutral stance and bring their weapons away from his neck. But still alert in case he tried to argue against the Lord President of Darvannis. He would still be devouring food on his part; eating an entire buffet in minutes and having it be replaced; this process repeated four or five times during their conversation.

The Hutt Lorda then heard the flapping of toydarian wings; as his majordomo would fly over to his ear and whisper that a strange person had wandered into the festival of a species that he had never seen before. This interested the Hutt Lorda; wanting to know why this being was here and for what purpose. So; he would record a simple holo message and give it to a service droid, telling it to head to the alien's location to bring them to himself at the Banquet Hall Private Event Chamber. Sending some of his Ma'alkerrite ape-man guardsman to accompany the droid; these guardsman were in simple terms armored gorillas with vibro weaponry and a few of them had blaster carbines as a secondary weapon incase negotiation failed, they would drag him to the hutt lorda through brute force if necessary. While the small envoy group left the chamber to find the alien and bring them before him; he would stare down at the captain and wait for his response to his judgement.

 

[James A. Rackham]

It probably said a lot about James that he, for a moment, contemplated going to the rock mines instead of giving up what credits were on his person. Not that he had a lot on him right now, but the principle of it all. Thankfully, his "audience" with the Hutt wad briefly interrupted by the arrival of a Toydarian servant who whispered something in his ear. It gave him a few moments to think.

Truly, this outcome was among the better ones he could expect given this was a Hutt he was dealing with. On a whim, Paranoda could order his guards to cut him into human-confetti. Most Hutt "guests" would jump at the opportunity to simply empty their pockets to buy their freedom. James had an idea. It was a gamble, but wasn't life a gamble? "O'course yer Excellency," he began, a chuckle rose in his voice, his body adjusting slightly to gain some modicum of comfort as he'd been on his knees for some time now: "I don't think I'm in any position to argue yer judgement." His eyes drifted down as if a thought arose in his mind, and shortly after gave voice to it: "I do have an... idea to add, if I may propose it yer Excellency."

His roguish grin returned as he continued: "As you may have concluded, O'im a spacer that's traveled the stars a time o'er two, savvy? I came here in the hopes of developing some new prospects. It would be my 'onor an' privilege to perform a job fer ye fer free, as both a token o' my sincere regard for your mercy... and, if'n Oi may be so bold: an audition?" The die was cast, and the next few moments would reveal whether he had reached what he came for, or lost it all.

Credit Wizard

 

[Credit Wizard]

James A. Rackham Bovos

The Hutt Lorda would ponder inside of his head over his words. He was glad that the captain understood that his judgement was final in that regard; but still had the audacity to pivot around his judgement by gambling with a bargain in exchange. Paranoda had lived for a long time as evident by his long grey beard, to which he brushed with his hand while going over his deal inside of his head. The Hutt Lorda can always use more connections with people; no matter to whom they belonged to or what personality that they have. But the captain was an annoyance to him; with his relaxed attitude in the face of danger, he could have always picked him up and ate him but decided that crashing his bargain to the ground would be a humiliation worth a thousand folds. Although he was careful with his words; incase the captain came for revenge at later time, although he had hundreds of security personnel on standby the event of an invasion on his powerbases homeworld. He would raise his arm from the armrest on the lounger; as his remaining ape-men would lower their spears again just about an inch from his stomach; one wrong move would have him bisected and in half on the floor.

"As interesting as that sounds; Captain James Rackham. You are attempting to pivot from my judgement and my authority is final unless you wish to challenge that fact. You will pay the dockmaster his credits in full; from your own pockets. This slight to my hold on this planet can't be undone by simply offering a bargain of a job." Exclaimed the Hutt Lorda; resting back on his rancor lounger. Peering down at him with his glowing reddish yellow eyes that had power and wisdom behind them; reaching over and picking up a glass of boga noga. While waiting for the response from the captain. His toydarian majordomo would flap his wings over to the hutt lorda again, telling him that the Scrapper Series Battle Droid was off of production at the Ancient Skytrooper Factory on the Planet. Knowing that this might mean big money if he sold them to the hutt republic or other factions; he would wave the majordomo away to prepare his sail barge to take him over there.

Meanwhile the Ape-men Guardsman would looking for the alien that had appeared in the festival. Going over to stall upon stall to check for information if anyone had seen anything suspicious that could lead them to the alien itself. They made sure that anyone who withheld information was going to be punished by the Lord President of Darvannis. How they had known that the alien was in the settlement was by the camera system that Paranoda himself had set up to monitor all activity on the planet; these cameras were often hiding in plain sight but it took an extremely good eye to notice them as they blended into the background scenery. After obtaining no information that was of any use; they would proceed to the main entrance to interrogate the people that had no doubt gathered around there as this planet was filled with drunks and low lifes that liked to huddle around areas of influence and hope to gain an audience with the Hutt Overlord of the Planet; who held their lives in the palm of his slimy hands and had the ability to do anything he wished to them.

 

[James A. Rackham]

"I wouldn't dream o' side-steppin' yer judgement, yer Excellency!" James said with mock surprise. It appeared the Hutt had keen intuition, since James was trying to do as he described, just in a well disguised fashion. But he felt so close in securing what he came to this planet for, he wasn't going to totally give up now. He just had to play his final hand. "Wha'ever credits I have on me are yours, whether it be the dockmaster, or my layin' them out here in fron o' ye. That part I recognize as yer final judgement, as clear as crystal m'lord."

James slowly rose to his feet, rubbing his knees as they were starting to become rather numb from their prostration. He winced slightly. He wasn't as young as he wanted to be, that was a fact. "I only suggested what I did as an added recompense for my indis-- indir--- for me' slight against yer honor, as you said. T'was not what ye' said was due, I grant you -"He inclined his head slightly out of respect. "...an' Oi' know Oi'' 'ave no right to expect anything from ye, yer Excellency. Oi only ask that Oi be allowed to demonstrate with my actions themselves, alongside my credits as ye 'ave so rightly judged. If you judge the credits the end o' the matter, Oi'll comply as you've judged an' be on me way. But I hope by me actions, I can prove myself a value to you for any... future profitable endeavors, along with demonstrating my sincere regard for yer status." He bowed, and kept his torso bent as a further sign of respect.

Credit Wizard

 

[Credit Wizard]

James A. Rackham

The Hutt Lorda would ponder inside of his head; going over the rewards and benefits of having them in his service. On the one hand; that he went against his authority on the planet and on the other hand. There might be some method to his madness if he was going to try and fool him with a well timed pivot. So he decided to follow through with it; but would look like he was taking his time; brushing his long grey beard tied in locks with acute interest in the captain's words that were clearly forced to get on his good side. But Paranoda would play this gamble and reap the rewards. He still had to oversee the production at the Ancient Skytrooper Factory on Darvannis and the strange alien that had wandered into the festival as reported by the toydarian majordomo that he had in his court. So he would raise his arm; as he proceeded to speak to him.

"Very well; I will employ your services and see if this gamble will pay off. But I will have to contact you at another time for I have an important guest that was going to arrive soon; and judging by your appearance you would show a bad impression upon them." Exclaimed the Hutt Lorda; although he was lying of course since he didn't have an important guest. But he played it to so well; that he could fool anyone with his words. Paranoda if anything; had been around for a long time and knew all the tricks of the trade when doing business with people. Of course he was busy with going to the skytrooper factory to test the new scrapper-series battle droid that he had developed using the zakuulian technology left over. But he wouldn't reveal that to a complete stranger that had only recently arrived at his festival and caused trouble at the dockyard without his permission. He would carry on eating and dining; while he had this conversation. Waiting for them to leave his presence; while also waiting for the alien to be brought to himself to see what they wanted or if he could make a deal with them for rare technology for his scrapper-series battle droid.

 

[James A. Rackham]

James stifled a victorious grin at the Hutt's final proclaimation. Still got it He thought to himself. He may have been getting old(er), but at least he knew he could still talk himself from the hangman's noose into a more favorable position. At least, he thought so. He would probably wish he had simply accepted the punishment of emptying his pockets rather than committing himself to the Hutt's employ, but that was a problem for another time. James bowed respectfully, and turned to do as the Hutt commanded and leave his presence. Some among the ape-men's ranks gave him a glower, and he winked in return, a slight grin forming on his lips as he exited the audience chamber. While he was tempted to return to the festivities, his first port of call would be to comply with the Hutt's judgement and empty his pockets to the dockmaster. Before he left the chamber fully, he gave one of the Hutt's aides a contact chit with his details on it, if & when the Hutt decided to collect on James' offer of a free job.

And then he left, straight away to the star port, where he strode up to the Nikto dock master, who carried an imperious demeanor that many a victorious conqueror would envy. He would assume the Hutt's staff would have messaged ahead so the dockmaster knew what James was here to do, but that didn't stop the scoundrel from relaying the directive in a very bemused tone. He rummaged in his pockets and said: "Per the judgement o' 'is Excellency Paranoda the Hutt, I have been instructed to empty my pockets of what'er credits I 'ave on me person, and deliver them to you as penalty for my.... bribe." The last word pushed out of James' lips like vomit he was trying to extricate as quickly as possible. He pulled out a pouch of credit chips, which carried roughly one hundred more credits, and tossed it to the Nikto. James was sure to turn out his pockets in his jacket, showing he had nary another pouch or credit chit on his person.

The Nikto scanned him up and down, tossing the bag of credits up and down a few times before giving the brigand an accepting nod, and extending his hand to James' waiting ship. He let his stare linger on the smug dockmaster as he walked toward the vessel, eager to be on his way before Paranoda arrested him for some other supposed slight to his honor. He proceeded up the ramp, and closed it soon after. Within moments, James was in the seat of his cockpit, flicking switches and checking his gauges to prepare for takeoff. At least he had new fuel for all his trouble, and at least he had a cache of reserve credits aboard his ship that were well hidden, even for those used to searching a smuggler's ship. He wouldn't be destitute, but he felt it high time to fade out into the horizon and find a seedy station, where the taxes were low and the bribes more discrete as he searched for a job to recuperate his expensive job interview.

Spoiler: OOC

James exits stage left.

 

[Bovos]

Credit Wizard

Bovos had been examining the stalls of the opening festival still in search of the person who sent out the holonet invite. He did not know what this person looked like but he would surely be able to tell once he stood in front of him. Whilst pondering to himself what this character would resemble the machinist noticed an increase of guards or more like a small patrol of strange creatures wandering the bazaar. Maybe in search of something or someone. The creatures were fully covered in fur and carried some weaponry. Nothing too serious for the Cha'ta'ri as he carried hidden weaponry and when things turned bad he could always call for backup.

The insectoid was mediating between approaching the haired beasts and asking for directions or to continue stumbling around the bazaar lost and with no way of finding the target of his expedition. He did not often ask for help from strangers but this might be such a situation. The Cha'ta'ri machinist was exhausting all his ideas and still had nothing to show for his expedition plus he was not going to return to his home empty-handed, failure was not an option.

Slowly and composed the large creature addressed the furry beings who were accompanied by a droid. He cleared his throat and began speaking in Cha'tar as he knew little galactic basic. "Hello friends, I am searching for a Paranoda the Hutt, Lord President of Darvannis. Yes, show me the way Yes," His mandibles were clicking slowly but steadily as he spoke his deep and raspy voice, in no way was this hooded appearance fitting with the tone of his voice. Nearly every person around him would be unable to understand his words but the name Parandoda the hurt filled the minds with an image of their lord. He read the strange and long name of the holonet invite as he wanted to get the name right in order to make their exchange easier. After speaking he showed the invite to the primitive-looking beings in front of him and pointed at the name trying his best to convey what he was looking for.

 

[Credit Wizard]

Bovos

The Ape-men Guardsman and the Service Droid Envoy would proceed to look around the stalls for a few more minutes.Before noticing that a rather strange alien was approaching them; halting in their tracks as they waited for the mysterious creature to approach them. They examined the large alien that was in front of them; as the alien spoke a strange language that the creatures' didn't understand, but once he had shown them the invitation letter with their lord's signature on it. They would understand; proceeding to speak to him in a timely fashion. "Unga Tunakog; Dun marun un markao de lodd nay truncho." Exclaimed the Ape-men captain in his native speech which was nothing more than gibberish to even the most kean translator and didn't make sense to anyone around the bazaar itself; which is why paranoda employed them because they could run errands without interference from the locals in the Lord President's Business. Knowing that the alien couldn't probably understand him; the captain would shove the service droid to speak for him, scratching his back with his vibroweapon turned off of course to get some ticks off, while the rest of the ape-men would stand there to keep watch.

"The Lord President of Darvannis is expecting you; Mister. You have been allowed an audience with the Head of the Mancheron Kajidic as a person of influence. If you would please follow me." Exclaimed the Service Droid; rolling on his wheel for transportation as he turned around and headed towards the entrance of the Audience Hall's Private Event Chamber; where the party was being held by the Lord President himself as a means to get well connected with various people from across the galaxy. The Ape-Men Guardsman would head first before the service droid; opening up the large ornately carved chamber door to reveal a lavish banquet hall that rivaled even the most outrageous parties on coruscant; with many buffet tables and fine dining experiences available to all inside. The Room itself was richly decorated with fine crystal statues and silk banners; the soft carpet would lead up to the personal throne of Paranoda the Hutt; who was occupying it at the moment due to still being on it from his previous talk with the captain who had violated his authority. The Service Droid would guide the alien to the throne; before bowing and exiting the chamber to do other duties that it was assigned such as spying on his guest.

Meanwhile the Private Event would be in full swing; with everyone having a good time and liking the food that was provided by the host; Paranoda Mancheron Boggurobb. As head of the Mancheron Association of Food & Beverages; the hutt lorda held a large amount of influence in the food industry and could provide any faction with top of the line food and beverage products to keep their populace fed. Inside the chamber itself were many important senators from coruscant and planetary governors that had come to bargain with the Hutt Lorda for a part in his Ancient Skytrooper Factory that was on the planet. Around the event hall itself would be double the security of anywhere else on the planet; with turret systems coming from the roof; silently watching all inside incase of any trouble; not to mention the combined arms of his normal security service and the ape-men guardsman; who strength rivaled even the most powerful brutes that were in the galaxy.

 

[Bovos]

Credit Wizard

It seemed Bovos made the right choice to approach the haired beasts. He was being escorted by the guards ad their droid passing many more stands until reaching a large chamber entrance decorated with color full banners that could be detected in various spots throughout the entire bazaar. Clearing the entrance doors revealed a noble room even more decorated than the before seen areas, strange furs were laid on the floor leading to a throne and statues made of coloured rocks dotted the room. This compartment was overflowing with various exotic foods but non attracted the insectoid as he craved for something different to eat, living flesh was his choice of nourishment. Bovos enjoyed his pray alife with blood gushing through their veins when he ripped them to shreds all while they are paralysed by the natural poison he injects whilst nursing from their body.

There seemed to be a whole different environment in this majestic room all the people were dressed better and locked of higher influence the decorations were more royal and the security was packed with multiple different troops stationed inside the chamber. At the end of it, perched upon his mighty throne a large slug-like figure this creature was obviously the authority and displayed himself as such. The guards and droid now left Bovos returning to their original assignments. The machinist knew little about galactic customs and politics but tried his best to act respectfully of his opposition. Bovos went straight into the conversation not bowing or doing any other formalities beforehand. Speaking in an ugly galactic basic he attempted to communicate with the hurt. " Greetings Paranoda the Hutt, I am Bovos Yes" His voice was high pitched and scratchy, his mandibles clicking faster than normal and he would often pause to think about the words he said.

He continued talking to the Hutt sat upon his throne "I come to planet to meet you and talk Yes, I come to planet to make deal Yes, Deal benefits both and all be Happy" talking in this language existed Bovos and he would take many breaks to think and relax his throat but the mandibles attached to his head would continue clicking through the whole dialogue. The Cha'ta'ri machinist was expecting the Hutt to understand his language barrier issue. He also hoped that the Hutt would accept his offer of making a deal even though he did not know what it was about, before leaving Bovos was instructed to I've away as little information about the tribe and their race as possible and if too many questions were asked he would have to abort and find someone else who was less nosy to make dealings with. Bus Bovos was sure the deal he would give the Hutt was enough to keep him from asking questions.

 

[Credit Wizard]

Bovos

The Hutt Lorda would be pondering over his construction of the Scrapper-Series Battle Droid Model that was produced in his secure factory away from Oasis City. He peered over as his service droid had brought the strange alien before himself; nodding towards the service droid as it bowed before him and departed to fulfill its other roles along with its company of ape-men guardsman that were assigned to protect it per the Lord President's instruction. The Lorda of Mancheron would observe the aliens appearance; and manner of speaking as he went straight for the business side of things instead of owing him his due respect, but paranoda didn't find this offensive at all considering that he had never seen this creature before. Although paranoda himself knew many languages; he found this attempt to communicate with the alien difficult, so he naturally pressed a button on his throne that allowed its droid translator to commune to the hutt lorda what he was trying to say in regular basic instead of this crude version. Once this was done and the alien before him stopped speaking; he would proceed to speak to him.

"An arrangement can be accomplished; stranger. I will not pry into your business or place of origins; as a sign of mutual respect with each other. Instead; I'll be willing to make a deal with whatever you can offer." Exclaimed the Hutt Lorda; wanting to know more about this strange creature. But he wouldn't press him on it; after all there were still many species that were not documented by the galaxy, so there was a chance to see others of his species at a later time. Besides; if he pressed him on a sensitive issue he might lose out on the benefit of their arrangement. And like all hutts; knowing that arrangements ment power and connections with various people that he could call upon in the time of need. Instead; he would play along with the strange creature and see what he had to offer to himself. As he got done talking; a passing service droid would drop another load of buffet food next to his throne that he gladly devoured; respectfully of course due to having a guest in front of himself. He had nothing to worry about anyway; he figured. The room was filled with the top of the line security systems and numerous guardsman at his command that he could use to dispose of anyone he saw fit without having any harm coming to himself. Although he was still careful regardless; he didn't know if this person was a force user or not and could possibility bring this place down on his head. He would look around for a moment; enjoying the atmosphere of people having a good time at his event. A success story in his mind and that made big sums of credits in the end if they made deals with him and vice versa.

 

[Bovos]

The Hutt Lord had seemed to understand Bovos and his message towards him, this would make future cooperation much easier for both of them. Whilst Bovos was formulating another sentence in his head more food arrived platters filled with all variations of nourishments. The creature gulped down food in a respectful but beautiful manner, the insectoid had seen many other species but none he had met ever had such a similar mindset towards consuming foods than the Hutt.

The Cha'ta'ri appreciated the acceptance of the Hutt and furthermore, he admired that the Lord kept to himself when it came to asking questions. This was a trait he adored in the businessman. It also seemed that the Hutt had a way of dealing with the language barrier between the two which would allow the Hutt Lord to better understand the insectoids broken galactic basic. Bovos would someday need to acquire a translation droid himself as he somehow often wondered into situations that required such a tool. Losing his train of thought because of the wonderous machine standing in front of him, the machinist awkwardly started saying something in order to fill the conversation gaps he left. "I am happy to have the opportunity to talk, Yes. Time is worth much for both you and me so I will go straight to my reason for coming to this place, Yes" The four-eyed creature was revealing more of his face in order to make eye contact with his opposition this also revealed the origin of the clicking which came from his maw where a set of mandibles where located. More and more people would be able to see the face of the creature standing in front of them.

He continued talking in his shriek clicking voice "I come from a strong tribe far away from this place we are stiving and are expanding our grip on the region, Yes. But we require slaves, Yes. I hope that you can give us this and we could give you something in return, Yes" He purposely left the part of what the Hutt would gain from this deal out of his sentence in order to see what the businessman would want. This cross-species interaction exited the machinist and furthermore, he would gain much importance in his tribe if he achieved this deal. The insectoid's blood was boiling and he could not wait for the opposition to state their requests.