Back in Business | First Order Dominion of Halm Hex

[Natasi Fortan]

​

"The heat, while oppressive, will almost certainly give way once you board our most luxurious and accommodating -- ah -- accommodations," the event director said as Natasi opened her parasol. The shade helped, but only marginally, and she could feel the breezy silken day dress she wore clinging to her back in a most uncomfortable fashion. They were standing outside the resort where Natasi had stayed the previous two nights during last-minute preparations for the Economic & Financial Summit. This year, instead of returning to the Whitetower Arms Hotel in Cloud City, or featuring the beautiful new city of New Advora as originally planned, they had elected for safety's sake -- and to avoid subjecting corporate attendees' security and convenience -- it had been moved to a neutral location: Halm.

"Don't worry," Natasi said flatly. "As the saying goes, though we Galidraani are effete, we're quite impervious to heat." This was, strictly speaking, not true, but the more time Natasi spent dealing with the overly solicitous event director, who was a blue-skinned twi-lek with an earpiece -- or whatever-twi-leks-had-for-ears-piece -- a clipboard, and a pen which she insistently clicked during quiet moments. "Where is the car?"

"Just there, ma'am," said the event director, pointing to the hotel's forecourt where the armored limousine speeder was pulling around. Natasi glanced at the antique watch that adorned her wrist; the ride would take them to the boat by 1545. The guests would be arriving a quarter hour after that. That left just ten minutes to do the final walkthrough, but with all the changes that she had requested already, everything should be in place. If it wasn't, it was safe to say that heads would roll. Lekku, too, probably. The car pulled up and Natasi, Clémence Wallace (her new PPS), and the event director piled in. "You'll be pleased to know that we were able to get the wisteria blossoms you requested in, and you were absolutely right about the linen press and it has been completely repaired."

Natasi looked out the window at the smear of sand-colored blur that was the streets of the resort town that hosted the main mooring station of the Desert Empress and made an imperceptible sigh, tapping her parasol's handle with her fingertips gently. "I know you think my demands are unreasonable -- " She lifted a hand to give the event director a pre-emptive wave of her hand. " -- there is no need to deny it. But it is important to put the best foot forward. If these guests feel special -- if they feel cared for -- they will be more willing to deal. So -- the little things, like wisteria blossoms and namata liquer, like properly pressed linens and the right staff, are more important than most people realize. But -- I'm sure you know this."

"Of course," said the event director with an abashed look.

"Oh -- before I forget, was there any problem with my luggage? I had the hotel send it earlier with my maid, Banks."

"Yes, it's been placed in your suite, and Ms. Banks has been installed in the servants' room across the hall." Natasi nodded. That was as it should be.

The tour was a brisk walkthrough of the main reception areas of the ship, plus a few of the suites, to ensure that everything was up to scratch. Natasi pruned a few wilting blooms from a suite on C Deck, smoothed a wrinkle on a bed on D Deck, and nodded her approval of the bar selection that was on hand to provide cocktails during the evening's cocktail reception. As they strolled along the corridor towards the reception area, Natasi complimented the event director. "You've done good work, Shilara. The ship is a veritable oasis of comfort and luxury, and almost as important is that it is air conditioned." The three women shared a laugh. "You'll be on-hand if I need you?"

"Of course," said Shilara, in what was becoming a regular refrain. "Here you are, ma'am, the Imperial Suite." She withdrew a keycard and used it to unlock the door, then opened it for Natasi. "Bedroom through there -- adjoining conference room, accessible from the hall. Ms. Banks is across the hall with and adjoining room for Ms. Wallace, both of whom will have keys."

Natasi looked around the room. It was airy, well-appointed and full of light, with a large bowl of wisteria blossoms on the table in the foyer. "This will be fine, thank you. Would you send Mr. Eriksen to me when he arrives?" With everything settled, Natasi waved Clémence in, with her two red boxes containing her state documents, shut the door and set the air conditioning to eighteen degrees centigrade. "Let's try to get through at least a quarter of the war box before the guests get here..." She looked at her watch. 1558.

"Let's go."

OBJECTIVES - Below the Spoiler!

Spoiler

[SIZE=11pt]Objective 1 - Attend the 2nd Annual First Order Economics & Finance Summit, aboard the Desert Empress river cruiser on Halm. Take part in high-level negotiations, hammer out contracts, and enjoy a life of luxury aboard a beautiful, all-expenses-paid cruise on Halm. Friendly or Neutral corporations seeking contracts with the First Order are welcome![/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]Objective 2: Cerea[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]The First Order has received a distress signal from the Cerean Council of Elders. It seems a group of pirates and mercenaries has established a stronghold in one of the Outsider Citadels on Cerea, and has begun to expand its influence and polluting activities on the otherwise-pristine planet of Cerea. They are desperate for assistance from a fighting force capable of eliminating these polluting criminals before it’s too late, and have pledged to join the First Order if they will help the Council with their plight.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]Objective 3: Marzoon[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]The First Order Security Bureau and the Knights of Ren have uncovered evidence of a rogue Force-training academy operating in secret on Marzoon. The academy’s teachings are in direct opposition to the First Order and the Supreme Leader himself. The Knights of Ren, and their allies in the armed forces and Security Bureau should investigate and determine the threat level of this academy, and what steps should be taken to mitigate the threat.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]Objective 4: BYOO[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]It’s your thang - do whatchuwannadooo.[/SIZE]

 

[Ardgal Raxis]

Post: 1/20
Objective: 1

If you wanted a job done.... You sent the right tool for the job. A man who's call sign included Madman was not the right man for business or diplomatic negotiations. But, well, here he was. He was a warmachine but here he was, sent by the powers that be to secure a contract for Raxis Mercenaries and Independent Arms. Sure they were on the small side but the company was high end in services, all you had to do was look at the deep black on black Godkillers or Alpha Company to understand that. Or Ardgal for that matter.

"Hold still," Muttered Doctor Taylor as he administered Ardgal's morning injection of drugs. "I swear, can't that wait till later?"

"No," Ardgal grunted turning the page of the file. He was brushing up in the intel he had gathered on those present. It wasn't for murder or blackmail, he needed to know all he could before going into this. He needed to be able to give these people what they wanted to secure the deals he had.

And what could he do? Specialized weaponry, high troop training, and of course provide what everyone wanted when they hired a mercenary, quality work and plausible deniability.

"Fierfek be careful with that," Ardgal grunted as he flinched.

"It wouldn't hurt as much if you would just hold still," Doctor Taylor sighed.

[member="Natasi Fortan"]

 

[Ysane Varn]

Obejective: 1 Economic Summit​

​

This being the first time, away from Onderon for anything business related, Ysane didn't know what to expect from the First Order. She had heard rumors, but the thing with rumors, you never know what is a truth and what is a lie. Though her company was fairly small, and tended to keep operations to only Onderon, she wanted to see what it was like with other governments. Joining her as her entourage were two of the Onderon Engineering Corporation's PR-490 Suppression Droids though not carrying any weapons, the droids were just meant to show there was security for the CEO. Look towards the ship as she stepped out of her taxi, all she could do is stare in awe. Ysane never saw something on this grand of scale, and yet couldn't help herself thinking who built it and how the specs of it were. The engineer in her was all a glow with curiosity. She couldn't wait to get aboard to see what the other CEO's brought to show off from their company.​

 

[Progflaw99]

-- -- --​

Objective I​

Location: Dunes
Post: I​

-- -- --​

The heat was nothing new to the avid sports enthusiast and Co-owner of Brandt-Volcata Industries. With a grin, the boyish businessman pulled hard at the accelerator sending the speeder he rode shooting across the sand even faster. The thrill consumed him, sand kickig up behind him as he cut across the desert, dunes sending him briefly high into the air with each hill crested.

Archer had been keeping his ear to the ground for an opportunity, and this economic summit had been just the thing. Located entirely in First Order space, it had only made sense to look towards the government itself for contracts, with nearly unlimited funding, BVI could flourish, and maybe even open up that additional facility they'd been talking about for months. Though, all of that had been lost in the moment as Archer brought his speeder to a sweeping halt.

The man had been taken somewhat aback at the beauty of it, the city below. He was no stranger to civilization but there was something unique about Halm. The way the river cut powerully through the landscape made him wonder - and impulsive as he was, he indulged his wonder.

Checking the chrono at his wrist, Archer took a breath. He was beginning to run short on time. If he headed back now, he'd have just enough time to get cleaned up and grab his portfolio before making quick time to the docks. With another grin, Archer sent himself cutting once more across the sand, headed to his suite.

[member="Natasi Fortan"] | [member="Aurelia Volcata"] | [member="Ardgal Raxis"] | [member="Ysane Varn"]​

 

[Perth Levov]

Objective 2: Cerea
Post: 1

There were many stories told of Cerean system, most of them featuring heroes and the brave decisions made in a growing time of crisis. From Perth’s perspective, fortunately, there were also tales of darkness and dishonour. The Jedi of Cerea had a mandate from the Force and their mentors to protect all life, but, like all mortal beings, some fell off the path of the righteous at times. And when they fell too far, they became a dangerous embarrassment.

So Perth found herself at the Cross-Wings It was the cantina she’d been recommended to start her investigations into the polluting criminals. The clientele was remarkably similar – they were all downing suds and Rodian ale until they passed out. And she noted a lot of the customers were flight crews. It seemed this place was one that people passed through as opposed to stay at.

So she grabbed a bottle of beer and sat herself in a corner and listened. Anything and everything was on her radar – any small clue as to where best to start.

There was talk of the Alliance. Of the First Order and all subjects in between, from killer droids to Jedi. The general consensus across the bar was that people just wanted to be left alone. There was nothing that even vaguely sounded criminal – unless you included a couple of dubious games of Pazaak and someone dealing death sticks.

 

[Dunames Lopez]

Objective: Economic summit
Location: Halm
Post: 1/38

For years now has Dunames been a party in the shipping industry, which, for her, also meant passenger transportation. When an all-expenses-paid summit by the General Ministry has been announced, she wasted no time in getting a spot there. True, she had a series of run-ins with the First Order authorities, most notoriously on Quintas and especially Jiroch-Reslia, But the Star Tours of today is quite different from the Star Tours of the era of the first summit; back then Star Tours was but a limited-scale operation and just began operating the Lipstick Express. Today's Star Tours is a much larger enterprise, with a galaxy-spanning network of destinations, capable of making travelers fly at high standards of luxury. And not only that, but Star Tours is also active in the entertainment, infrastructure and hospitality industries, even though, on the infrastructure count, she focused almost entirely on the spaceport aspect (the Subterrel one fell to Alliance hands while it was under construction but, for the time being, they would pretty much leave its construction to its own devices). She approached the gangway leading into the Desert Empress...

"Time has come to board the Desert Empress"

"Your identification please" an usher asked Dunames.

"Dunames Lopez, Star Tours"

[member="Natasi Fortan"] [member="Ardgal Raxis"] [member="Ysane Varn"] [member="Archer Brandt"]

 

[Perth Levov]

Objective 2: Cerea
Post: 2

Perth continued listening, but her eyes were no longer fixed on any of the men but on something she had glimpsed on the wall above one of the booths. It resembled a bioluminescent flitter – a bug native to this planet. This one, however, wasn’t moving from its spot on the wall. The reason became apparent once Perth probed it through the Force. Not only was it a fabrication, it was also a listening device.

Perth scanned the room, then turned to face the mirror. The device wasn’t very sophisticated; its large size was evidence of that. Even so, that didn’t mean that whoever was eavesdropping on the men at this table had to be inside the cantina. But Perth suspected that they were. Without looking at it, she focused her attention on the artificial flitter and screened out all extraneous sounds: the pulsing music, the dozens of separate conversations, the noises of glasses clinking or being filled with one inebriant or another. Once she could discern the muted beeping of the device’s transmitter, she listened for signs of the receiver with which it was in communication.

At a round table to her left sat a Rodian and a Twi’lek, apparently engaged in a game of cards. Perth watched them for a moment. Their playing was desultory. She observed their facial expressions as the men at the bugged table continued to converse. When one of the men said something of interest, the Rodian’s faceted eyes would flash and his short snout would curl to one side. At the same time, the Twi’lek’s head-tails would twitch.

The Rodian’s left ear was sporting an earbead receiver, while the Twi’lek’s receiver took the form of a dermal patch, disguised as a lekku tattoo.

Perth had no way of telling who these two were, but the level of sophistication of their bugging meant they were the best lead she had so far.

 

[Eugen Aker]

Location: Aboard The Desert Empress, Halm
Objective: Economic Summit, Weapons of Mass Destruction
Allies: First Order
Opposition: Alcoholism

A personal invitation by Natasi to the First Order's next Economic Summit brought the desert world of Halm to her attention. Quite literally on the surface, it was an unremarkable dustball of a planet, but one rich with natural resources. Most notably, Adegan crystals. The Force reactive crystals had a wealth of consumer and military applications, and so would be a useful component in the building of Albion and the next generation of Republic warships. She deployed some survey teams while ahead of the summit's start date, hoping to track down new veins, or acquire some already operating. Getting her hands on the rarest variant Adegan crystals, pontite, was ideal, but any kind would be of great use to her.

On the day of her arrival to Halm for the summit, she received news of positive progress by her teams on locating sites for deeper study. Places that had been overlooked by others before, but Kiribians new their way around a planet as terraforming masters. Along with that news, she had set up a meeting with a local mining company about the possibility of a buy out. So, her day was already off to a good start when she appeared to board The Desert Express around noon time. She always liked to appear to these events quite early for networking opportunities as one of those first on the scene. It also gave her some time to settle in before a long day of events.

As both the head of state and government of the burgeoning new Republic, she was given a tour of the vessel following check-in. On the top deck, the harsh desert sun beat down, but she didn't sweat a bit, the comfort range of the augmented hybrid much wider than others. Still, she she always preferred things to be cooler, so she was happy transitioned to the air conditioned halls of the interior as the tour moved onto the decks below. The whole vessel was quaint in function, but quite extravagant in design.

At the end of her tour, she was shown her suite, a grand spacious affair that was perhaps only second to the suite of the Grand Moff herself, only a couple doors down. The Moff's door was closed when she passed, but she could feel the familiar aura of Natasi within.

She took some time to enjoy a tall class of chilled sparkbee honey - made available on the voyage by personal request ahead of time - and freshened up before stepping out of her suite. Outside her mingling earlier, there wasn't much yet to do with most people still arriving. She gave Natasi's door a knock to see if she'd enjoy a friendly chat before things kicked off.

Spoiler

[member="Dunames Lopez"] [member="Archer Brandt"] [member="Ysane Varn"] [member="Ardgal Raxis"] [member="Natasi Fortan"]

 

[Ryne Hathu]

Objective 1​

Post 1​

Ryne Hathu was a Neimodian who knew what he wanted and what he wanted was, as always, lucrative business deals. He shuffled along the deck of his luxury cruiser en-route to Halm, pacing to and fro. State sponsorship would be a radical new path for his company, one with opportunity but also great risk. To openly contract and align with the First Order's Government could be an obstacle to functioning in the wider galaxy, especially with the First Order's less open approach to the free market.

As if on cue one of Hathu's assistants glad in blue uniform spoke up, "Have you considered what problems this may create, sir?"

Hathu turned to face the man whose name he could never recall. "Of course!" It was one thing for Ryne to doubt himself but to be questioned by another? Unthinkable! "I have seen every eventuality and see only profit in front of us!" He dismissed the man's concerns with a flamboyant hand gesture. "Either we secure a healthy relationship with our Government or at the worst we enjoy a luxury cruise with the rest of high society." Hathu grinned, 'high society'. He liked that. "You see? As ever, my genius is truly unmatched! Now bring my things forwards! We shall be landing momentarily and I don't want anything left on the ship!"

He was ready, everyone else was just being slow and useless as always. Hathu crossed his arms and huffed. He wasn't nervous, no. He wasn't nervous at all. All would go well today. He was sure of it.

 

[Zef Halo]

THE DESERT EMPRESS
HALM


"Quite massive, isn't it ?" June rhetorically asked as her eyes fell on the massive ship that they were bound to board.

"I'd expect nothing less from the Order, to be honest." Vitor replied, his eyes also scanning the ship.

"I really hope you don't have seasickness. Like really."

"You don't have to, you're not paid to clean up after I throw up." Avendahl smirked and instead received a long drawn out sigh to which he raised an eyebrow. "What?"

"It's not that, Vitor. I bought this dress just a week ago and I plan on wearing it tonight."

"I-"

"No, listen, you better tell me now whether you have one or you don't, okay ?" June raised a finger at the young acolyte making sure that he realized how serious this was to her.

"Well." The Sith let the incomplete sentence form silence between the two.

"Well what?" The Pantoran's patience was running critically low, it was not only her face but her tone that implied as much.

"We're about to find out." Vitor snorted but before June could open her mouth in fiery protest, they had approached the security check point. Even she knew it was time for business.

"IDs please." The man barely uttered the last word when Avendahl and June revealed their IDs. "Right, Vitor Avendahl and June Ando of Corondex Arms. Please proceed through the scanner."

After which the duo was wished a pleasant trip on board the Desert Empress.

"You know what surprises me, June ?"

"Hmm?" June raised an eyebrow, her demeanor by far calmer now when they were not alone. Vitor could only guess that she genuinely still felt troubled about her dress and the possibility of Avendahl having seasickness. The Force said as much.

"That this ship is not operated by Star Tours." Vitor smirked and June puffed out her cheeks barely withholding laughter. "Anyways, let's get ready for tonight. Dress up quick and I will see you at wherever the first part of the summit is held."

Both headed into their separate suites that were right next to each other. Vitor had to only adjust his attire well before he had to leave, an instictive grasp towards his hip made him realize how much used he had been to his lightsaber.

The magical cylinder was not with him today. Just his wits.

[member="Natasi Fortan"] | [member="Archer Brandt"] | [member="Ardgal Raxis"] | [member="Dunames Lopez"] | [member="Suravi Teigra"] | [member="Ysane Varn"] | [member="Asharad Graush"]​

 

[Priscilla Utorna]

Objective; 2
Post; 1

She too had heard of the Cantina [member="Perth Levov"] was present at, although not pre-planned she was aware generally of who would be assisting her. Although not overly large in both consumers and size, she saw the value of it as a starting point for her inquiry.

She saw the woman intently staring at the bug on the wall, although not apparent to her the reason for this she continued walking until she too saw the Rodian and Twi'Lek present. Although she didn't plan on talking to them directly, she did have a way of grabbing their attention, perhaps with a more indirect means of sparking a conversation.

She approached the bar and asked for a small glass of water, she wouldn't be drinking it. The barkeep handed her it, and in turn she handed over a few credits, more than enough to cover the expense of the drink. As she walked from the bar to just near the end of the room; but before making the full journey and pretending to wave to a Bothan who gave her a confused and disgruntled look, tripped, -- on purpose -- spilling the contents onto the Rodian.

No words were spoken as he stood up and gave her an angry look. his black eyes staring into her own.

"I'm so sorry! I didn't mean t-.."

Before she could finish, his companion Twi'Lek started to giggle while he was confronted. She couldn't understand his language at first, a series of mouth movements made no sense to her. He then spoke a language she could comprehend. She couldn't even tell if he was angry anymore, she had previously little to no interaction with this species apart from at her University campus, where Rodians were a very small minority.


"You stupid girl! Look what you've done!"

The card game continued in the background as the men took advantage of it. Although she didn't know much about the game they were playing, he certainly had a lot of credits gathered on his side, although he didn't pay attention to this. As he raised her hand in to wipe off the water, or at least attempt to, she spotted the receiver. This was somebody of interest, whether it was somebody who was of interest to what she was investigating, she was still yet to find out.

[member="Perth Levov"]

 

[Sunny Lee]

Location: Aboard the Desert Empress, Halm
Objective: Economic Summit
Post: 1

The CEO of Daehan Industries stepped out of her transport at the mooring station, she stood to her full height and ridged posture and gazed out towards the Desert Empress. It was quite an impressive sight to behold. Her head turned slightly to look over her shoulder as her bags were brought over to her side.

“Do you need any assistance, Mrs. Lee?”

The Seoularian woman shook her head curtly and retrieved a pair of sunglasses from her clutch.

“Thank you, no. I will manage.” She responded politely, but with a bit of a cold edge.

With that, she took hold of the handle on her suitcase and made for the ship. Never one to be tardy, she had arrived exactly at 1558. Brisk steps brought her to the queue that was forming and she joined at the end. Her dark eyes peeked over the rims of her glasses, watching as the other guests boarded. The amenities would be a major attraction, she mused… not that she planned on taking advantage of anything more than the basics. After all, day spas were simply too restful for Sunny.

A slender hand showed her invitation to the gentleman and she was promptly shown to her suite. When she was left in the solitude of her luxurious room, the dark-haired woman pushed out a great sigh, almost like she had been holding her breath the entire time. If she’d had her way, she’d be locked inside her office on Seoul, not about to get ready for a cocktail reception. However, she understood that sometimes business simply demanded that one be social. As she dressed, she made a silent promise that she would do her best to show an amicable disposition.

And she sent up a silent prayer that she would make it through the night.

 

[Zmej Ren]

Objective 3
Post 1
En route to Marzoon


Rumours of a secret academy that practiced outright heretical teachings quickly flooded the usual topics discussed among the knights of Ren. Even the freshest of graduates knew exactly what it meant, the danger and discord it presented. Naturally; to have a sect of trained Force sensitives at one’s doorstep spelled trouble, especially if said Force practitioners followed a direct opposite of Sieger’s teachings. History offered dozens of examples; one did not even need to look particularly far. When two opposite orders clashed, only one could emerge victorious – the other either burned to ashes or converted to the winning side, embracing a new cause and hoping at least bits and piece of their former self survived throughout the ages.

Soon enough, the rumours turned true, validated by the FOSB as well as Sieger Ren’s agents.

A deeper investigation quickly became a necessity to properly determine the academy’s fate, with two possible outcomes hanging over its head like an executioner’s axe. Conversion or extermination; no mercy to be found. Curing the disease by rooting it out in its entirety was an effective, ages old method tested and proven numerous times, each order snuffed out and wiped from history book being a silent testament. The other way offered the same, though through less bloody and messy means. One chance to correct their ways would be all the Ren were willing to offer, even if the people in charge would die nevertheless for spreading their blasphemy. The Supreme Leader’s law spoke clearly when it came to training facilities for Force sensitives, offering no exceptions.

Clanking against metal floor, a piece of armour fell from Zmej Ren’s hands when the shuttle experienced turbulence during its descent. She needed her morning caf. Lacking its stimulating effect, the teenage disciple radiated even more anger than usual, quite eager to stomp down the rival in faith. As soon as she managed to put her plate boots on, that is. Going from one mission into another wore her down, but being a stubborn fool determined to fulfil the Supreme Leader’s will, she never allowed herself a break. Following a shower after the usual morning exercise to always keep herself fit, the blonde immediately rushed into a shuttle to drive her to another mission.

But what wouldn’t a good girl do for her father? Especially since his motivational speech that resonated through her very mind. He demanded better than a bunch of hormonal adolescents who hunted after fun and the scent of alcohol – and although only fulfilling the adolescent criteria, Zmej Ren took his words to heart and worked even harder than before. Perpetually angry, yet finding fulfilment in the powerful inferno of rage burning within, she discovered an outright sadistic joy in waging war on enemies of the First Order. Seeing her Father’s opponents broken and lifeless was most satisfying and she looked forward to doing it again.

 

[Kyrel Ren]

Objective 3
Post 1

Above Marzoon, aboard the FIV Inflicter class - Prosecutor

Kyrel was deep in meditation, he was always bothered by how much pain his suit caused him, but he did admit the suit did have it's uses. It amplified his powers in the dark side, and made him feared and intimidated to most officers who had not worked with him such was the case with the young commander whom he had encountered from Dosuun. He had gained permission to lead the investigation and to commandeer a cruiser, and any military assets he required in taking care of the academy that he had recently heard about located in Marzoon.

He had been in deep meditation since making the jump to hyperspace, he needed it in the preparation for taking care of the heretics which could be a threat to the First Order, and to the Supreme Leader. He knew that this would end in bloodshed and he would be most happy to carry out the deed. He had heard about the summit that was going on, and so gladly accepted this assignment where his skills in brutality and combat would most come in handy. He found happiness in the thoughts of letting loose his powers and carrying out the Supreme Leader's will.

He was broken out of his meditation by hearing the door open. The young commander stepped through into the quarters, and Kyrel got up to face him. He spoke in an attentive but slightly fearful tone to the imposing figure. "My Lord we have just arrived in the Marzoon system." Kyrel's breathing which was the only sound that could be made. He than spoke his commanding baritone showing no sign of the hastiness he had showed in wanting to get down to the planet. "Prepare my shuttle for takeoff Commander. It is time we show these fools that one does not instruct children without incurring the wraith of the Supreme Leader."

The Commander merely looked at Kyrel and than swallowed hard as he nodded rushing out of the room. He walked out in a stride, his cape flowing behind him as he was followed by two stormtroopers. This was going to be a simple mission nothing more, he had required the aid of a few assets to take care of these beings. He excitedly made his way down to the hanger a team of stormtroopers measuring about at least 30 of them stood in two lines next to the shuttle. He climbed aboard his old Theta class shuttle with the troops following in line. He waited for [member="Stardust Raxis"] to come on board, as he knew she had accompanied him as well, but little did he know he was not going to be the only Ren coming to this mission.

 

[Stardust Solus Skirae]

[member="Kyrel Ren"]

Obj 3
Post 1

The force
It was a thing of evil and light and in between
That depended on whoever used it
That depended on which side claimed it...

Her eyes opened up, she had been setting by her own fighter that had docked within the ship, she let a breath out, looked around seeing the ground crews moving around her, some giving glances and whispering, she gave no care as she stood and stretched out, she checked her sabers and westars, she looked to her helmet as she picked it up

She looked forward as she walked towards [member="Kyrel Ren"] she slipped her helmet on as it sealed on and wrapped itself around her lekku before clicking in place, she let a breath out as she sat down in the shuttle across from him, the mandalorian looking helmet looked at him as she spoke

they gave me very little on what we are doing, all I got is that a rogue force element is active and needs to be investigated....guess that's the skinny for me huh

 

[Natasi Fortan]

Objective 1
Post 2

"And -- the war bond effort," said Clémence, lifting the folder out of the red box that sat on the bed of Natasi's room. The Grand Moff was standing in front of a full length mirror as Banks knelt to her side, adjusting her dress. She held the folder out to Natasi, who took it and flipped it open to study the figures inside. "Oh -- well, some good news at last," the Grand Moff murmured. "Can this be true? Fifteen billion from Bespin alone? I knew our propaganda was good, but I didn't realize it was that good."

"Moff Eriksen did mention you would be pleased with the final figures," Clémence said.

"Isobel will be delighted," Natasi said dryly. "If I go a day without her complaining about money it's because one of us is in hospital."

"Didn't that happen when she had that wrist fracture?"

Natasi paused. "That was a glorious week, wasn't it?" The women shared a dignified chuckle, and Natasi -- not for the first time -- felt a vicious pang of grief. Clemmy was -- well, she was good. She was efficient, she had a dry sense of humor, and knew how to comport herself in public and private. But she wasn't Sioux. "Be a dear and send a digital copy of that to the Supreme Leader's attention. He'll be pleased." As Banks placed a beaded necklace over Natasi's shoulders and fastened the clasp, there was a knock at the door. Natasi glanced at Clemmy, who nodded and went to the peephole, then returned to Natasi and murmured, "[member="Suravi Teigra"]." Natasi was impressed that Clémence managed to remember all the names and faces from the facebook of attendees, and nodded. "You can let her in. Banks, my gloves, and then you can go." Banks placed a pair of opera gloves in Natasi's left palm and then exited through the adjoining conference room.

Meanwhile, Clem opened the door. "Ms. Teigra. She'll see you now." Natasi turned towards the door as she worked her left glove up her arm, offering the Republican a smile. "Supreme Commander, I'm so glad you could make it. I'm not late, am I?" She glanced at her watch; the cocktail hour would be starting in a few minutes. "What do you think of the ship? It's not to... I don't know. Too much?"

 

[Natasi Fortan]

Objective 1
Post 3

Hector wasn't bothered by the heat, but he did hate being in a stuffy, starched suit in hot weather. So he was pleased that, as the sun sank behind the dunes across the river, the temperature dropped to a balmy and temperate level. He and Lydia were attending the summit as businesspeople -- well, he as a businessman, she as a member of the media covering the event -- but his main purpose here was to get close to members of the First Order establishment, and the object of his fascination, the Grand Moff. Here he would be in his element: charming, debonair, competent, and intelligent. The group was large enough that his presence made sense, but not so large that he wouldn't be able to secure some time with the people he needed and wanted to see.

It would be perfect.

The two showed their invitations and identity cards at the gangplank and were waved aboard. An usher took them to their rooms -- a two-bedroom suite situated around a small but well-stocked sitting room which featured a small balcony. He looked around, nodded his approval, and offered a tip to the usher who, after a furtive look up and down the corridor, took it and tucked it into his breast pocket. Once alone, he shrugged out of his lightweight linen jacket and hung it on the back of a chair before going to the minibar and producing two small bottles of scotch. "You want?" he asked Lydia, who was exploring one of the bedrooms.

"Sure," Lydia replied. "Look, they've already hung up our clothes."

"It's the same as when we're at home. Do you think Natasi would settle for less?" He put a few ice cubes in two heavy-bottomed glasses, then poured a small bottle of scotch into each, carrying one over to her. "Look, don't get too feminine tonight. I need to frame you as a capable reporter who can keep up. It's a hard sell at the best of time, but it'll be impossible in sequins and stilettos."

Lydia made a face, then sighed. "Pimping by other means."

"It's respectable," Henry said quietly. "I'm going to see about getting you officially embedded. Frame it as mutually beneficial relationship. So just be cool." He drained the scotch, pleasantly chilled, and set the glass down on the table before turning to his room. "I'm going to wash the journey off. Be ready to head out in twenty minutes."

 

[Dunames Lopez]

Transportation infrastructure... that ought to relieve some pressure off the First Order government. That was the main thing Star Tours could do for the First Order and still be mutually beneficial. After all, several planets, like Verkuyl, Sump and Lanteeb were having transportation infrastructure problems before there was that meeting during the first Summit. Looks like every summit of that nature will be held in the lap of luxury, she thought. While, of course, acknowledging that the booze was pretty refined, she had to be careful in how much to drink. She knew that several businessmen invited took it as an opportunity to drink, but that was not her case. Her hopes is that [member="Natasi Fortan"] would actually get Star Tours to manage a chunk of the First Order's spaceport maintenance and infrastructure, with priority being given to planets on which Star Tours actually did some infrastructure work, or otherwise service (as in "flying to there").

"If there is one issue I would like some updates on, it would be transportation infrastructure. While, of course, in several new annexations, we built some transportation infrastructure, Star Tours obviously did not contribute everything up to this point. This is crucial to our war effort especially on the logistical side" she told one of the other attendees.

 

[Eugen Aker]

Location: Aboard The Desert Empress, Halm
Objective: Economic Summit, Weapons of Mass Destruction
Allies: First Order
Opposition: Sand in my boots.
2/38

"Thank you," she said as she gave Clémence a respectful nod before approaching Natasi. The door clicked closed, and they were alone.

Gleaning their surface thoughts, she could see that finance had been a topic of discussion before she had arrived. War was a huge drain on the coffers. In her last days in the old Galactic Senate, it had been a constant balancing act of allocating funds between various (failing) sectors of government. Much to her chagrin, she had to constantly deal with foolish peers who had still thought it was a good idea to spend precious credits on frivolous domestic projects at a time when their territories were being overrun on all sides. She would not allow that mistake to happen again.

There was a hint of pain, there too, but without context, she really didn't know what to make of it. The Grand Moff was still very much a stranger to her, even with the extensive dossier ONI (Office of Naval of Intelligence) was building on the First Order hierarchy.

"It's my pleasure. If it wasn't for your personal invitation, then I wouldn't have thought to look into Halm on my own. So many opportunities here."

"The Desert Empress? I think this vessel works just fine for the venue. Not everyone can say they were able to ride a boat in their lifetime, so this setting may serve to make this Summit quite the memorable experience."

She came around the other side of Natasi, towards one of the suite's large portholes offering a splendid view of the glittering azure waters below.

"Between us, unless you'd like to keep things formal, you may refer to me as Suravi in private. I expect future events will make us quite familiar. Hopefully for the better."

Said events would lead to either Avalonia or Pinyumb going up in flames. Of course, she wished for the latter.

"As for the time, we look to be right on schedule. Though, I'm not in a rush. How about yourself?"

Spoiler

[member="Dunames Lopez"] [member="Natasi Fortan"] [member="Sunny Lee"] [member="Vitor Avendahl"] [member="Ryne Hathu"] [member="Archer Brandt"] [member="Ardgal Raxis"]

 

[Asharad Graush]

Objective: 1.
Post: 1.
One of many luxurious staterooms.

Minutes ago the two had entered one of the many suites on the nautical vessel. Inseparable in the last few weeks, A'sharad had made sure his companion's identity remained a mystery. It'd save all of their lives in the long run, especially since she was to be considered the enemy. And so he kept her close, for he loved the thrill in the potential of her being discovered. Once, he lived for the thrill of battle, to kill, to fight, to win over his opponents. His outlook had changed, the cloak and dagger way of things had a different thrill, though it was of the same nature - almost.

He stood in front of the mirror in the main room of the suite, going through the process of tying his tie.

"It's going to be difficult to keep you out of sight of cameras and news broadcasts," he said as he brought the wide end of the tie up through the loop he had created moments ago. He pulled the tie to the left, and then to the right, before to the left again as his eyes widened fractionally when he realized he had made a mistake. He stared at himself in the mirror, running a hand through his hair as he continued on to say, "They're usually noisy," he said, though he figured she of all people would know that. "We'll make do," he said before he just wrestled himself out of the tie and chucked it on the bed as he turned to [member="Lily Kuhn"], "I do miss your red hair though." He said with a mysteriously genuine smile.

And soon enough, they were on their way to the lounges. The High Marshal's purpose on the cruise was to further diversify the First Order Army's equipment and to find those that were worth his time, and more importantly, the Order's. In a few hours, he wondered how many propositions he would've politely declined.

[member="Vitor Avendahl"], [member="Ardgal Raxis"], [member="Hector Finn-Camden"]​