Back in Business | First Order Dominion of Halm Hex

[Commander Lusk]

Location: Headed towards Citadel and Criminal Outpost
Objective: 2/Strike Force
Post: 4

Getting into the citadel, that was the hard part. From there it all amounted to surgical strikes on specific locations and individuals. Get in, kill, gather Intel, and then get out. Those were very simple instructions to go off of, and while Lusk wish he had more challenging work to do than just putting down a few criminal. He understood that this was their first mission for the First Order, and gauging on how they did here and on jobs in the near future, it would allow their new overlords to see how effective they were. Lusk wouldn't complain though, Keira and Preliat has taught him better than that. He'd let his actions speak louder than his words, and right now his action was getting to the citadel.

"So here's the plan. Uno has the map of the city cued up and we've located the building in question. The job is simple, once we get past the city gate we make our way to the objective and hit it hard and fast." There was a round of stifled laughs and chuckles from inside the cargo unit of the freighter a fellow clone was piloting.

"You said hit it hard and fast." Bottle Cap chuckled under her helmet and Lusk simply face palmed in response.

"So the way you like it from Roach right you sicko?" The troopers known as Uno threw his comment in the mix and the cabin erupted in laughter.

One had to remember that even though these were trained and deadly commandos, and while biologically they were about age thirty. These men and women were about sixteen years old, so some of them still had a very juvenile sense of humor. Lusk didn't mind it so much, they were still on their way to the citadel via speeder freighter so noise discipline wasn't needed quite yet.

"That never happened and you know it! The idea of any of you makes me sick to my stomach!" Bottle Cap shouted back in mild anger.

"That's not what Roach told us. He said you were all over him like flies on Bantha crap. The description was quite fitting really." Gumball chimed in and flipped his hair a bit to show off his rather pretty features.

"I WILL END YOU BOTTOM queen!!!" Drawing her stun baton the female clone was about to charge before Uno grabbed her from behind and wrapped his arm around her clavicle to put her in a low headlock.

"The mission." Lusk spoke his two words and then everyone calmed themselves to look upon their brother. It was amazing how much respect they held for him. Though it wasn't surprising, he was the only clone to ever best a Sith Lord in combat. He wasn't the man you wanted to mess with.

"Once inside the building we kill every hostile there. Non hostiles will be tied and bound and held in this freighter for later questioning. Secure any and all credit caches, intelligence, and resources vital to finding the syndicate head and the primary base of operations. Is that understood?" Lusk said to his brothers and sisters as he stared over them.

They all responded in a very firm "Yes, Lusk." And just like that they were ready to go. Just in time too, they had heard the knock at the back panel to signal they were pulling up to the gates. It was time for complete silence and let the driver do their thing.

Ripcord who was in the driver's seat was looking down at a few hate guards. He wore a large cloak over his armor to conceal himself and it was time to talk his way past these bumpkins without getting the truck searched. How exactly would he do this? Well he had to prove he wasn't a cop or here to cause trouble. Best way to do that is to know the lingo commonly used among shady criminal types.

"Jee bahva doneha" The sound of Ripcord's deep voice could be heard from inside the cargo container.

"Business or pleasure?" A voice responded back the sound of other feet shuffling around the vehicle wafted around outside.

"Yanee. Totpa um baw wah lorda. Cha oto vo jen wanta." Ripcord's voice seemed to change a bit as he exuded confidence. The best way to get past these types of scenarios was to act like you were supposed to be there.

"For the boss, huh? Well if that's right then we'll need to check if it's all there." There was a cocking of slug throwers and a hum of blasters powering up as everything went silent from sheer tension.

"Jee hatkocanh gee mee peekasa." There was an utter deadliness in the tone of Ripcord's voice, the trump card he was waiting to use to get them through this.

"What did you say to me?" There was the heavy sound of a shotgun being clacked as the gate guard sounded a bit upset.

"I said I would have your name, underling." That same deadly tone was in Ripcord and it caused a few round of gasps.

"Because the way I see it. I'm going to have to tell the boss why his shipment was late. And I'm looking at the man whose responsible for it. So...." There was a slight pause.

"Jee hatkocanh gee. mee. peekasa." He would have the man's name.

If there was a sound of a man's fortitude leaving him it would be ringing right about now. The gate guard stuttered a few times and then got his composure once more.

"Proceed." And that was the end of it.

The window rolled up and the speeder freighter pushed forward past the gates and into the citadel. They were on their way now.

[member="Perth Levov"] [member="Heidi Ziegler"]

 

[Alleycat]

Desert Empress
Halm
Objective: 1
(2)

Bright blue orbs raised up from the datapad in hand when the sound of footsteps from a pair of heavy boots coming towards her got the redhead's attention. A reddish-brown brow quirked up ever so as Mads' gaze looked upon a sight from a Mad Max holovid. The man wearing a riding suit was completely covered from head to toe in sand, dust and mud, well all except for his dark eyes where his goggles used to be that were seemingly peering back at her.

Madlyn brought her datapad's stylist up to the corner of her mouth in a thoughtful way to help keep a smirk from forming on her pale pink glossed lips. He certainly had a way about him that called out rich playboy. She felt as if the man had already undressed her. That was amusing yet not. The diplomatic aide was there to work not play, well more work than play maybe. The Eriaduan was planning to indulge just a little in the amenities offered on the cruise. Who knew when Mads would get another chance to be pampered.

"Perhaps you should have taken a dip in the water before boarding... less likely to clog the ship's drains when you shower up. Hope it was worth it?" she quipped lightly with a small smile as [member="Archer Brandt"] started to pass her by on the main deck.

 

[Zmej Ren]

Objective 3
Post 2
Marzoon
[member="Stardust Raxis"] [member="Kyrel Ren"] [member="Torian Pierce"] [member="Arisa Yune"]


She sensed Kyrel, reaching out through the Force and making her aware of his presence before the shuttle even landed. Zmej ignored the call, seeing no point in responding given she’d see the man in person soon enough. One last piece of armour and she stood ready, fully prepared for whatever awaited her – such as meeting with her brother in faith, definitely the first task to attend to. Then again, Zmej did not consider him entirely reliable, despite his rank. Beneath all that armour was a weapon, not a leader, thus she decided to keep him in line and intervene should he overstep his boundaries.

Even the Supreme Leader’s agents adhered to rules and limits imposed upon them – a wise decision, as the Sith have proven several times. Things always started to fall like a house of cards when incompetence and unlimited authority went hand in hand. Once her gut and the pilot’s voice alike informed her of the shuttle’s stop, the disciple stormed out like an incoming fury itself, positively betraying her current disposition.

Kyrel Ren was a hard figure to miss. A living tank followed by many stormtroopers, he marched on the academy in a manner not entirely different from her own, albeit Zmej’s trajectory headed to intercept his path. A clash between the two heavily armoured warriors became inevitable. Relentless, heavy thuds brought her to the First Order’s force, stopping its advance.

“I look forward to you handling the situation, Kyrel,” stated the armoured disciple as a fleeting smile graced her features, safely concealed behind the mask. Looking around, the helmet's expressionless glare turned to the soldiers seemingly accompanying the Ren. And one Twi’lek Zmej definitely did not know, but as a human supremacist, she did not care to correct that mistake on her own as the alien wasn’t one of the Ren.

“You can start by having the academy surrounded to ensure nobody leaves without your permission.” Zmej’s distorted voice informed before the disciple spun on her heel, armourweave cloak following her motion surprisingly well and sticking to her plated figure.

 

[Ysane Varn]

"3,000 units of the PR-490s alright, lets see that would be about 40,000 credits for the create of them, and another 5,000 credits for the shipping fees from Onderon, to where would you like them shipped?"​

​

Not even a day went by and people already wanted some of the production line from the newest model of Droids from OEC. This would make it easier for the company to grow, as it was Ysane's plan to make this company something to give the people of Onderon pride and the tech they deserved made all locally, minus getting the materials for them. That venture would be something for a subsidiary of OEC where they could mine the more rare metals to make more impressive armor for their droids.​

​

"Now Miss Volcata, what can I interest you in. I heard you are the CEO of Sienar-Jaemus Fleet systems, that is a very powerful company from what I hear, many iconic old ships were built from it if I recall my history, correct?"​

​

[member="Dunames Lopez"] | [member="Aurelia Volcata"]​

 

[Asharad Graush]

Objective: One.
Post Two.

"Of course," he'd say with a smile as they exited the privacy of their suite to join the main throng of people. She was royalty, he supposed. Being in the public eye was what she was groomed for. He knew that, it had solely felt like something he should have vocalized nonetheless.

Though he went back a few moments to answer her last teasing moment with a prod in the ribs and a lowly uttered, "Keep you? Isn't that, the only option?" he'd say as he loop his arm through her one. The right one, even if it was cybernetic.

And then, he heard his name. It wasn't said aloud, not actually, but was rather spoken through his mind. His amber orbs scanned the room until he spotted, [member="Vitor Avendahl"] and his gaze threatened to smolder. The man was a Sith from the other end of the Galaxy, though he suspected that his period of disappearance hadn't gone unnoticed, with the use of a stealth ship, it was quite difficult to accurately track the Sith Lord. He was doubtful that Intelligence would've stuck that close to him, especially during the time he was travelling through the Core.

Come here, lest I drag you across the room.

Typically, A'sharad had a sharp way of talking with little to any emotion. Although his warm features had seemingly frozen in the moment that he spotted Vitor, they remained outwardly pleasant, though when the message was sent, it still came with the frosty sharpness that usually came when he issued orders.

"I think I've spotted someone I know," he said to Lily. "Let's meet him."

[member="Lily Kuhn"]

 

[Eugen Aker]

Location: Marzoon
Objective: Diplomacy with the First Order (Objective 3)
Allies: Rogue FU/Seekers
Opposition: --
Neutral: First Order [member="Zmej Ren"] [member="Kyrel Ren"] [member="Stardust Raxis"] [member="Jaina Ventor"] [member="Torian Pierce"]
9/38

On the way to the enclave, Arisa had made contact with ISAF for some possible assets to throw at Marzoon as a backup option, though she was still determined to figure out a peaceful resolution. Now in the cockpit , she switched over open subspace channels to reach out to the First Order that may be in the area as she came in. To appear non-threatening, weapon systems were depowered, though she had shields and anti-concussion primed.

Attention to all parties in the area. This is Watchman Yune of the Kiribian Systems Union. I'm requesting an immediate ceasefire until I'm able to speak with the commanding officer or official of the First Order forces here. The members of the enclave are willing to cease activities and leave First Order space, and I can help make this happen.

I'll be setting my ship down 30km south of the operational zone, and from there, I'll wait for a response from the First Order. Attached to this message is a copy of my official credentials as a Kiribian diplomat.

"There is we go," she said after transmitting the message on a loop.

"So that's it, then?" Norith asked, having helped himself to the co-pilot seat as he coordinated with the Enclave through his comlink. Mair hung out just behind them.

"That's about all I can do without flying us in there and risking us getting shot down. I'm going to give them 15 minutes to issue a response, but if I don't hear anything, then I'm just going to jump in."

"What are the combat capabilities of your people?"

"I'd say about half of us have any real combat experience, mostly out of the One Sith and Ren. There's a few ex-Jedi, too. The rest are pretty raw, only having the training we gave them in drills and self-defense classes. A lot of them are just kids, really."

"Arms?"

"Many of us keep lightsabers or some bladed equivalent, but outside of that nothing special. Just small arms like blasters and launchers. Some explosives."

She nodded. A little better than she was expecting.

"Assuming you all have some training in the Force, then that should be enough to tide over your people in a defensive position for a time if I can't stop the fighting, but that's not going to be enough to hold out against fully equipped stormtrooper units and whatever else the First Order trotted out here for their operation."

"I'm such an idiot," Norith groaned as he sunk into his seat. "This just seemed like a nice quiet place to do our own thing outside all the fighting, but we can't escape it, I guess."

They had arrived, right over a forest. She found a small clearing then set down the freighter.

"So then, what's in the Corporate Sector?"

"Well, my first choice was to take us all to Tython and go full circle, but that place still looks to be a hot zone. We've been hearing about some haven been made in the Corporate Sector for refugees like Mair and me. The Dominion, they call themselves."

The Dominion. That name brought up a well of uncomfortable memories. She didn't dare to ask if it was the same group she was thinking about just then.

"Provided we get out of this in one piece, I'll take you wherever you want. However, there's always a place for you all on Voss, or my homeworld of Kiribi. Both the KSU and Silver Jedi are very welcoming."

"Honestly, I may have to take you up on that offer. If there are people you come from there, then it can't all be bad."

She snorted. "I'm nothing special, just doing my job, like I said."

Norith looked like he wanted to say something more, but his comlink came alive again with panicked voices from the enclave. None of them wanted to die or get imprisoned/reeducated for just trying to find their own way in life in peace. She could understand how they felt perfectly, being constantly tormented by the Sith even when she tried avoiding them. But in times like these, there was nothing to do but stand their ground to protect all that meant dear.

 

[Kyrel Ren]

Objective 3
Post 3
Allies: [member="Stardust Raxis"], [member="Zmej Ren"], [member="Jaina Ventor"]
Nearby: [member="Arisa Yune"]
Kyrel marched in a purposeful stride towards the steps of the Academy, determined to bring about bloodshed to it's very walls. He stopped suddenly when he saw a feminine figure clad in armor, and when he heard the distorted voice he could tell it was Zmej. He was surprised to see her clad in armor, her features covered by a helmet. He knew that she disliked him and hardly even registered him as a Knight of Ren. Despite her thoughts just like the others of the Order viewing him nothing more as an instrument to be wielded, a lapdog of the Supreme Leader so to speak. Kyrel grew angry every time and his anger even sent ripples through the force. Even from hearing her distorted voice, he quietly assumed that she was mocking him at every turn, and he wouldn't let any Disciple order him around especially her.

He nodded, and decided to take her words into account, he stared at her remaining silent for one moment, he than spoke coldly the metallic tone not hiding the slight lace of venom that was within the baritone. "Zmej what a pleasant surprise, I shall take your words into account, but this is my mission that I am leading, I will be ensuring that our Supreme Leader's wishes are carried out and that the pitiful children inside are dealt with as he wills. Do not think you command me, and if you get in my way make no mistake I will not hesitate in cutting my fellow sister down."

He had a feeling an eventual fight was brewing between the two, and he made sure to make the point of his words clear by fixing her an icy stare through the dark lenses. He than turned to the captain who was clearly pointed out by the black shoulder guard he had on his right shoulder. He said to him as his gaze was drawn to the main entrance of the academy. "Captain." "Yes Sir?" "I want you to divide our forces into squads to occupy every opening, and make sure that if anyone tries to escape kill them without a second thought." The captain gave a nod of respect as he looked to the 30 plus men that came with them. He said to them harshly. "You heard the Ren men, fan out into squads of 4 and cover every opening to seal them off." The troops nodded and spread out into said squads, walking carefully and scouting there surroundings searching and position themselves at every possible opening or exit, while a couple of squads stayed to provide backup to the Ren.

It was than that the comlink within his helmet beeped, and so Kyrel answered curiously, he had heard a slight fearful but attentive voice speak to him. "Commander Vekarr here my Lord, It seems that our scanners have picked up a transmission coming from the south not far from your position." Kyrel grew increasingly more curious upon hearing the news of such a transmission. He responded his tone making no hint that he was surprised. "Very well you may play it Vekarr." He than heard the message play out to him.





Attention to all parties in the area. This is Watchman Yune of the Kiribian Systems Union. I'm requesting an immediate ceasefire until I'm able to speak with the commanding officer or official of the First Order forces here. The members of the enclave are willing to cease activities and leave First Order space, and I can help make this happen.

I'll be setting my ship down 30km south of the operational zone, and from there, I'll wait for a response from the First Order. Attached to this message is a copy of my official credentials as a Kiribian diplomat.


Kyrel cursed himself. He had not expected company, and thought their would be no complications with the massacre, no matter it would still be carried out regardless but for now he would humor this diplomat. He than spoke quickly to Vekarr as soon as it was over. "Patch me to the same frequency as that transmission Commander." "Yes my lord." The transmission was than cut short as he was switched to the same frequency as the transmission was. He than responded coldly to the message. "Greetings Watchman Yune, I am Knight of Ren Kyrel in command of this mission. I am afraid that I will not come to you, but I am willing to discuss with you outside the entrance of the Academy. I assume you know where that is so I will not waste time sending the coordinates. I'll be expecting you."

He ended the transmission. He knew that he won't agree to what a diplomat says, but he was willing to humor her knowing that in the end it would end in blood and the Supreme Leader's will carried out. He than looked to Zmej. "Good news Sister we are going to have company." He chuckled despite not having a sense of humor he poorly attempted to induce a bit of sarcasm into his tone. Weather it had an effect or he looked to the captain, and another trooper [member="Torian Pierce"] pointing at them "You two come with me." He said commanding them to follow him atop the stairs and towards the door that lead inside the academy. He than stopped turning around to patiently wait for the diplomat to show up.

 

[Stardust Solus Skirae]

[member="Kyrel Ren"] [member="Arisa Yune"] [member="Zmej Ren"] [member="Torian Pierce"]

Obj 3
Post 3

Stardust had stopped just behind kyrel as she looked to the newcomer, she was clad in armor and by the feel in the force and by what kyrel said a ren, she glanced between them before she idly checked her items before she looked up again listening to them, she felt the tension between them...not good...least to her

She shook her head as she followed kyrel, she was under his orders at the moment, she listened as she spoke

what type of company are we expecting

The modulated voice rang out as she followed him up the stairs as she looked around making sure every corner was clear and no traps were set, after making sure she turned the same way he had and crossed her arms as she scanned the land carefully

She didn't know what was going to happen at all, but she prepared herself for anything, she wanted to make a better place for those who wished for peace....evem if it meant spilling blood to create a red peace

 

[Zef Halo]

THE DESERT EMPRESS
HALM

[3]​

​

The man acknowledged him through the Force as well. Quite authoritative and threatening for Vitor's taste but he could understand why. Avendahl looked back at his Pantoran aide and for a moment regretted bringing her. It would've been a bit disrespectful to leave her behind and the acolyte shook away those thoughts.

"Hey, I've seen an old acquaintance. Let's go meet him. Looks like he's married." Vitor lied, adding some spice to it to sound more believable. Hopefully June would not talk too much and mess everything up.

The two had to cross the whole lounge to approach Graush and his companion. The ship began filling up with people thus obstructing many a prying eyes. Vitor considered all his options carefully through the whole short journey from one side of the lounge to the other. Did he begin with his name ? Most likely not as it might have been a faux one that he had used in the Sith meeting. Too much thinking and he knew he was already overthinking it. Vitor let the Force guide him.

Vitor. He whispered telepathically his own name. Just in case Graush would act as if they knew each other.

"Well, long time no see." The acolyte smiled, the most dishonest smiles one could have ever seen. He was being casual as all of this was so normal. Avendahl was quite pleased with his theatrical skills. He turned to Graush's companion as if she was the only one out of the two that he did not know and introduced himself. "Vitor. Vitor Avendahl. And this is my aide - June Ando. Pleasure to meet you."

[member="Asharad Graush"] | [member="Lily Kuhn"]​

 

[Claire Organa]

Objective 1 - Attend the 2nd Annual First Order Economics & Finance Summit, aboard the Desert Empress river cruiser on Halm.

Post 2

[member="Lydia Finn-Camden"] | [member="Hector Finn-Camden"] | [member="Natasi Fortan"] | [member="Vitor Avendahl"] | @ardal raxis Anyone else aboard the ship​

Claire settled in quickly she looked down at her portfolio it had many of the dresses she had designed as well as designs for others who sent items into her shop. She contemplated whether to carry it with her. Perhaps the best thing she could do was to wear her own design.

Nodding to no one except herself she went to the closet and looked at the three dresses she had brought, cocktails, formal dinner, casual which to wear. Which would entice someone to ask where the dress came from.

She really enjoyed the black and white contrast of her line the shimmersilk so soft to the touch, or the weave of shell spider silk. Yes, she knew what to wear. A half hour later she emerged from her rooms dressed heading down for a drink and a bit of networking. The dress was simple black it was the sleeves, and neckline that gave the dress its elegant flow.

She was greeted by a staff of the ship holding out a tray of drinks, Claire smiled and lifted one of the offerings. A quick sip that sent her sense of taste reeling, wow a little stronger than I'm use to. Claire stood still acclimating to the taste trying to hide that she was caught off guard by a single sip she smiled nodded and glanced about as if looking for someone. A soft whistle escaped wheeoooo ok, let's take it slow.

Claire careful to put one foot in front of the other moved forward

 

[Ellie Mors]

BROOKLYN IS BURNING

Objective: 1
Post: 2

The moment that the two stepped foot outside of the room it was as if Lily was an entirely different person than she was before - she could have played a supremely playful act, or perhaps the warm persona she took when greeting others as Empress of Teta, but chose to be the sophisticated and severe woman that someone as stoic as A'sharad should be seen with. While she was certain he probably didn't really care too much about how she acted, as long as he liked however it was she was treating him, she knew the politics of dating in the sphere of influence. Rich people slept with either people that were richer than them, or people who looked gorgeous - sometimes both. Lily, while certainly both, knew she couldn't tout her real wealth and importance and would need a suitable way to answer any personal question thrown her way. Today - or at least for as long as she was in First Order territory - she was no longer Lily Kirsche Kuhn - she'd be little more than a pretty face with an attitude that said she was reserved just for A'sharad.

She felt her heart skip a beat when he looped his arm with hers, mechanical or not, and her faux-smile became true. "You make it sound like it's a chore to stay with me." She said with a forced frown, leaning her head against his shoulder when he seemed to lock his gaze on [member="Vitor Avendahl"]. She'd hoped for a little more open flirting, away from whatever acquaintances he might have had in the First Order for as much time as she could steal away from him, but the galaxy seemed to conspire against her in that moment - already pushed into meeting with someone that she didn't recognize from any propaganda about the First Order. And for all of her preparedness in changing her demeanor and adjusting her attitude she had realized the two of them had never actually came up with a cover story about who she was or where she came from. 'There goes being anything more than arm candy.' Lily thought to herself, mentally cursing herself for her shortsightedness.

"Pleasure to meet you"

Even as he'd said the words she found herself thinking of how to best introduce herself - was she a friend of A'sharad's? Who was this man, did he know Ash, and how close were they if he did? A trillion questions pushed through her mind as she smiled with a condescending smirk and blinked twice, the universal Do you know who I am? series of expressions. "I am Ella Keto, it is truly a pleasure." She said, stressing, perhaps sarcastically, how truly a pleasure it was. Her head tilted a bit, eyes glancing at [member="Asharad Graush"] questioningly - she didn't know anything about anyone in the First Order, much less any of his friends, and she knew that none of them knew who she, or her alias, were. The alias, of course, was something of a cross between her name and that of her best friend's, Nadja Keto's. The Keto family, as alarmingly Tetan as it were, was also notoriously riddled with Sith and heavily involved with the Krath. And that was a group she had intimate knowledge of.

 

[Ashin Varanin]

[SIZE=11pt]OBJECTIVE: 4[/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt]LOCATION: Halm, in the general area of Objective 1[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]The civilian science frigate [/SIZE][SIZE=11pt]Shamballa[/SIZE][SIZE=11pt] drifted low over the dunes, no easy task. Gritty wind, maybe the beginning of a sandstorm, snagged the wingtip nacelles and torqued the spaceframe. Though the [/SIZE][SIZE=11pt]Shamballa[/SIZE][SIZE=11pt] mounted acceptable civilian-grade hull plating, perfect sensor resolution required it to drop its shields, and the desert sun was having a noticeable effect on hull temperature. Captain Ashin Karrde had cranked life support’s air regulator functions to a hundred twenty percent, and her jumpsuit was still plastered to her lower back. She shifted uncomfortably in the command/helm chair, to no effect. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]Shields down, low to the ground and scanning myopically downward, the [/SIZE][SIZE=11pt]Shamballa[/SIZE][SIZE=11pt] had to be the most vulnerable target she’d ever flown. Thankfully, the First Order was running some sort of trade summit in the same general region. Onboard professors might gripe that the [/SIZE][SIZE=11pt]Shamballa [/SIZE][SIZE=11pt]couldn’t perform geological scans in a certain nearby area, quite a large one, but the First Order had to be keeping a close eye on this planet today. The odds of pirates, raiders, Undergrounders, or local authorities messing with the [/SIZE][SIZE=11pt]Shamballa[/SIZE][SIZE=11pt] tended to drop when TIEs were on patrol.[/SIZE]

 

[Asharad Graush]

Objective: One.
Post Three.

"Yes," he'd say. "My favourite chore to do," he'd continue on to say in reply to his companion before they came face to face with his Sith acquaintance.

Long time no see.

A'sharad refrained from a snarky reply of their last meeting having not been that long ago. Instead he stretched his arm out to [member="Vitor Avendahl"] to shake as if they were good friends, or rather, friends that were excellent business partners. "It's good to see that you are well," he said with a smile. He leveled his gaze on Vitor again, as if to communicate to him to tread carefully before he manipulated his features, and the smile appeared to reach his eyes this time.

It looked genuine.

He was good at this sort of thing.

"A'sharad," he'd say with the faintest of inclines of his head to the Acolyte's Aide. "High Marshal of the First Order's Army," he said. his gaze happening to have swept back onto Vitor when he said that. He could sense the sudden tension that had come across the group as [member="Lily Kuhn"] replied in kind to Vitor's own dishonest appearing greeting. In response, he tightened the hold he had on Lily's arm, as if to tell her to relax, but all the while he was saying, "I wouldn't have imagined you in such company, Vitor." As ironic as that was coming from him. "What brings you so far from home?"

 

[Ashin Varanin]

OBJECTIVE: 4
LOCATION: Halm, in the general area of Objective 1

It was possible, she supposed, that NHU executives might be on that river cruiser, attending the economic summit. NHU ranked as a solid upper-mid-grade post-secondary school, and the general faculties council and board of governors had been making noise about closer relationships with the First Order. After the purges, anyway. The First Order hadn't even needed to intervene to make sure NHU's academics stayed in line: the university administration had taken care of that. A couple of outspoken political science professors had been shuffled off elsewhere. One tenured research chair, non-human, had apparently felt it wise to take emeritus status and retire to Corulag. A student club with Jedi ties had experienced difficulty booking facilities, half its exec team had resigned or even transferred schools, and the club's remaining administration had amended its constitution and schedule comprehensively. Now, from what Ashin heard, they hosted the occasional panel examining Jedi history through a deconstructionist lens.

As far as she could tell, the First Order hadn't lifted a finger to make any of that happen. They'd simply taken control of the planet in a polite, efficient, and uncompromising way, and the implicit force behind their takeover had been enough to make Varunda IX roll over.

It hadn't all come down to fear, of course. This particular research expedition, wherein the Shamballa applied specialized geological sensors to the deserts of Halm, was a prime example. Certain grants and perks incentivized NHU's researchers and administration to prioritize research projects that would be of value to the region's new owners. Adegan crystals, for one, were much in vogue.

 

[Fiolette Fortan]

Objective 1
Post 1

[media]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WI9mvYNLp2o[/media]​

​

Fiolette arrived in typical fashion, late. She also arrived to represent Primo Victorian Shipwright, the company that was more than responsible for some of the ships that now rest in the First Order's grasp. She was here to renew that contract as well as pen new ones with the new engine that Primo Victorian created. There were at least two customers wanting it, and one of them was here. The newly blonde fleet admiral had recently celebrated her sixty-fourth birthday and felt great for it, of course - not many sixty-four-year-olds looked like she did. Then again, not many of them underwent the same treatment she did. Something like enteching but without the same price. "Fiolette Yvarro," she said to the staff aboard the Desert Empress. Once again her niece had picked well, "leave it to Natasi to make such a grand gesture." The fleet admiral mused, "thank you." She remarked to the staff as she stepped to the side and moved down to check into her room.

The 2nd Annual Economic and Finance Summit was being held on a cruiser, last year it was held at Bespin and at least now they would all be trapped together, how lovely. Was the thought that entered her mind as she walked down toward the staterooms. Checking the chronometer along the wall, Fiolette noted that she had arrived before departure rather, just before it. Finding her room she set her things down and checked in from the interactive holo pad on the door frame. From there she decided on a shower and a change of clothes, checking the time again she decided to make her way toward the cocktail reception.

 

[Zef Halo]

DESERT EMPRESS
HALM

[4]​

​

The Force spoke to him of deception. Unfortunately for him, in such a crowded locale and having his complete focus upon Graush, it would be impossible for the acolyte to pinpoint it. He did not even try. Nodding at Ella, Vitor was able to feel June's unreleased scoff at Keto's arrogant introduction. The businessman was glad the Pantoran knew that being direct in gatherings where the majority were stuck up politicians was not a good move. If Ella was someone of importance to the Sith, he would've paid her more attention. Alas, she was not.

High Marshal of the First Order.

Vitor let that sink in.

Graush was a Sith, he had to be. There was no way a High Marshal would be acting as a spy for the First Order within the diluted ranks of the Sith. Did the First Order know ? How did they accept it ? So many questions and yet no solid conclusion. Business was one way to find out. In the end, this was an economic summit, right ?


"Business, as usual. On the other side of the galaxy, true but being sponsored by the Order kind of forces me to be here. So here I am. Looking for ways to expand the business even more." The acolyte's eyes had fixated on Asharad before he released the gaze to glance between Keto and the High Marshal. "I'd assume both of you are for the same reason here, no?"

​

[member="Asharad Graush"] | [member="Lily Kuhn"]​

 

[Dunames Lopez]

Objective: Economic summit
Post: 5/38

Because she received basically no answer from [member="Aurelia Volcata"], and that the price quoted by [member="Ysane Varn"] was, well, a complete steal, she decided to take up the offer, even though the costs were more consistent with bulk orders 1/10th that size. So, even if she got 1/10th the promised quantity, she would be happy. Yet 5,000 credits from Onderon to somewhere in First Order space sounded about right: there was enough droids in that order to fill an AT-AT barge all to itself. True, [member="Claire Organa"] had nothing to do with the business of ship maintenance or other items that might be important in the operation of starships or spaceports, unless perhaps delivering made-to-order items was what she asked for. That was a little fast but she had to make do with what was available. Perhaps another company or two would be willing to try their hands with Star Tours, either to get them to buy their products or services, or to get said products delivered across the galaxy.

"We accept that offer, so we would like the shipment delivered to Jiroch-Reslia please. The agreed-upon number of credits will be transferred to your account shortly"

 

[Natasi Fortan]

Objective 1
Post 12

Aurelia raised a brow at the peculiar woman across from her; she had heard rumors of [member="Dunames Lopez"] being an odd little woman, and from what she had observed thus far, the rumors were spot on. She seemed to be a Savant of some kind, and had managed to somehow continue to find favor with the First Order despite a series of infrastructure boondoggles that nobody needed, wanted, or authorized -- a certain ski resort came to mind, as did a spaceport on Kaeshana. Perhaps Lopez was a skilled Force practitioner and used that gift to manipulate the people behind authorizing contracts. Only the First Order's stranglehold on the media managed to keep Lopez's exploits from enraging the people with frivolous and unnecessary credit expenditures during the time of war.

The offer, however, intrigued her. "We don't typically barter, but -- well, perhaps we can come to a deal." It wouldn't do to become too closely associated with Star Tours, whose reputation was not all that to be wished, but she could still stand to benefit from a several-arms-length transaction with Star Tours.

She turned towards [member="Ysane Varn"] and smiled. "Tell me more about your operations? I'm dying to learn more."

 

[Ysane Varn]

"Well [member="Aurelia Volcata"] there isn't much to it, just a small weapons, armor, and droid company based off Onderon as it stands right now. Though we are looking to expand more around that area. Right now however it is mostly contracts with the Onderon Royal Guard."​

​

There wasn't much to the OEC it was small in comparison to Sienar-Jaemus Fleet Systems, Ysane was sure that Aurelia would find her operation antiquated and maybe a tad backwater, but to Onderon it was everything, OEC made everything they needed for self defense for the most part, though ships were a bit out of their league right now. Ysane would hope there could be some cooperation with another company so Onderon would be able to get their fleet built back up. With the Galaxy on the verge of war the small independent planets would need something to protect themselves in case of unwanted incursions.​

​

"I do hope you find my operation something of interest, though we are small at OEC, the Queen and citizens of Iziz rely on us for most of their work and items they see in day to day life."​

 

[Natasi Fortan]

Objective 1
Post 13

"Excuse me," Natasi said to [member="Suravi Teigra"] and [member="Hector Finn-Camden"], bowing slightly as she separated herself and took to the stairs. The Grand Moff emerged into the golden haze of the sun, snatched a glass of cold champagne off the tray of a passing waiter, and surveyed the deck. It would be another half hour before the ship shoved off, but Natasi needed to make the rounds, and that she did. She circled the deck and then went back belowdecks, entering the lounge where she saw [member="Asharad Graush"] conversing with a stranger. It was as good a time as any, so the Grand Moff approached them, clearing her throat gently as she inserted herself into the conversation.

"Pardon me," she said pleasantly to Graush. "High Marshal -- good of you to come. Before I forget -- if you have a free moment during the weekend, there's someone I'd like you to meet about a proposal. We can discuss the details later." She turned to [member="Vitor Avendahl"]. "Hello, I don't believe we've met. I'm Natasi Fortan." She extended a hand in pleasant greeting, offering a pleasant smile.