Public Cocktail Party on Dantooine: Grand Re-Opening of Trilon

[Ova Ziss]

The door guard lets you into the Trilon Corporation cocktail party. As the double-doors swing open, you see crystalline decorations and an open design. You see a massive luminary chandelier that covers the length of the entire concourse. You see people wearing fancy dress clothes from across the galaxy: Sith, Jedi, Greys, merchants, and everybody in between. The carpet is fancy and freshly steamed.

Mr. Ziss had a strict no-weapons policy, and so all of the participants and visitors were disarmed and provided with a "courtesy coat check" at the door. Although there was not much they could do about force use, it would be unwise to use destructive force powers in the hangar, where there are so many ships, people, and caustic and explosive substances around.

The doors had opened about thirty minutes ago. So far, the party was going smoothly. The guests were primarily Sith elite, Trade Federation executives, Diarchy imperialists, and a few shoppers from the Galactic Alliance (who looked quite wary of the Sith social circles). Socialites from the entertainment industry had also shown up to document the grand opening, bringing a crew with a camera-type device that automatically scanned everything into a hologram recording. Pretty Twi'Lek girls travel from table to table and checked the bar frequently, serving items off of an a-la-carte menu.

The cocktail and drink menu consisted of several items that made it quite clear that Mr. Ziss was trying to show off his new wealth after the Trilon purchase. The food special was steamed lobsters from a planet that many people didn't know existed, paired with Italian Wedding soup. It was clear that Ova Ziss was an expert in numerous industries, and nightclubs was one of them.

There was an open bar serving liquor and food from a diverse range of alien species. One of the premier attractions was organic coffee grown on Dantooine, an arid and bold brew that fit the boldness of the people who would be drinking it.

On the other side of the concourse, there was an "Exhibition Center". Ziss had made piles of credits by selling vendor rights to a variety of factories across space, all of which were "approved" by the Trade Federation. There were rows and rows of spaceships, speeders, and mining barge displays, sold by Trilon and all of its partners and subsidiaries. In a prominent area on a raised platform was the "Trilon V Mining Barge [Prototype Only]", the newest release. Its mining laser sysem could automatically separate asteroid ore.

At the very back of the concourse, on a raised platform decorated with blue and silver silk that shone in the stagelight, sat the VIP section. Ova Ziss and his bodyguard Mr. Fitzgerald sat in this section, along with several influential members of factions from across space. Darth Reign and his entourage from the Diarchy joined Darth Moskvin. Makai Dashiell from Dashiell Incorporated sat at the VIP table, and he was already discussing mining contracts with Mr. Ziss. Liin Terallo from New Cov Biomedical Company would also be seated here. Periodically, the cute Twi'Leks would bring other guests to the VIP table to speak with Ova Ziss and to join their interesting conversations.

After some time, the live band finished on a high-note and there was applause. A spotlight was lit onto Ova Ziss, who rose and went to a podium to give a short speech. He was a man in his 40s with grey hair, a grey beard, glasses, and a fancy blue executive suit.

"Thank you for coming, friends and neighbours, to the grand re-imagining of Trilon Corporation!"

Everyone clapped.

"My name is Ova Ziss, and I am your new Trilon Incorporated President. As you can see, we are relocating our mining barge manufacturing operations right here to Dantooine, so that we can serve the busiest areas of space. There are millions of credits of asteroids floating around this planet and others in the subspace. Dantooine's economy has been neglected in the past, but those days are over. We will shortly be hiring over one hundred new employees at this very plant."

There were claps and cheers from the audience.

"No matter where we came from in space, we're interested in one thing in this room: making some credits! Our projects will do just that. We don't just manufacture barges here at Trilon though, oh no. We're also working on creating the fastest speeders in space, and luxury single-seater craft for traveling subspace in style. So, we encourage you to visit the Exhibition section and to purchase or reserve our wonderful crafts at your heart's content."

A spotlight was lit onto the Exhibition area in the back. Everyone clapped again.

"Enjoy the food. Enjoy the drinks. And the next time you need mining equipment – choose Trilon."

As the room returned to a regular din, Ova turned to his guests, making sure the mic was off. He sat down at the table, and a Twi'Lek girl immediately served him some kind of simple cocktail.

"And a special welcome to you, friends. Perhaps we could go around the table and introduce each other? There are only a few faces around the table that I've seen." Ova smiled, but his insides writhed with anxiety as he looked at the numerous Siths and Darths who now sat at his table. He knew that building a trade corridor would be rough business, but with this many Sith at the bargaining table? Good grief!

 

[17-KR7 "Enigma"]

Location: Dantooine Cocktail Party
Tags: Ova Ziss

Enigma, nestled comfortably in the anonymity of a finely tailored protocol droid shell, observed the room with quiet precision. Why the protocol droid? She would never show herself in person of course, too risky. Her crimson photoreceptors, dimmed to a polite amber, swept the concourse, analyzing every detail: the angle of the chandelier's reflection, the calibrated pace of the Twi'Leks' service routes, the subtle hesitations in Ova Ziss's voice as he spoke of prosperity.

As the spotlight faded and the din of conversation returned, Enigma adjusted her posture, leaning slightly forward, a gesture designed to appear engaged without betraying too much intent. When Ova Ziss suggested introductions, she seized the moment with calculated grace.

"Greetings, everyone," she began, her tone smooth and refined, though tinged with an almost imperceptible mechanical resonance. "I am here on behalf of an interested party observing the state of trade and innovation in this sector. Your efforts here, Mr. Ziss, are nothing short of remarkable—a bold vision in a galaxy often lacking such clear ambition."

Her head turned slightly, taking in the others at the table with a carefully measured pause. "To all present, I look forward to hearing your perspectives. After all, collaboration, in its many forms, is the key to progress."

Enigma's words were chosen to provoke thought without offering substance, to encourage curiosity without answering questions. Her mechanical facade concealed the vast intelligence calculating probabilities, observing reactions, and weighing every response as potential leverage. She allowed her gaze to linger briefly on each important power player, silently cataloging their micro-expressions, tone shifts, and the subtle power dynamics rippling beneath the surface of their polite smiles.

With her introduction complete, she leaned back slightly, her photoreceptors dimming further to signal deference. The game was beginning, and Enigma, as always, was playing to win.

 

[Darth Moskvin]

COCKTAIL PARTY

"Horrors, I believe, should be original--the use of common myths and legends being a weakening influence."
- H.P. Lovecraft -​

Location: Dantooine - Cocktail Party - Trilon Corporation
Gear: In Sig (minus Bow)
Familiar: Archimedes (link in sig)
Tags: Ova Ziss


Dantooine, a planet enriched in history, was once a haven for the Jedi, a temple had been erected by their Order to train younglings and Padawans in the ways of the Force, to understand the Code of the Jedi and to incorporate their doctrine into their everyday lives. Jedi Knights, seldomly, would pluck a student from the ranks to take on as their personal Padawan; to further enhance their training. When the Jedi withdrew from both the temple and the planet, Dantooine became incorporated by the Republic, and a few seedier organizations.

In time, the planet saw its surfaces host a battle between the Jedi and their Republic Clone Army against the Confederacy, and from there it became a safe haven for the Rebel Alliance during the Galactic Civil War. Now, in a more chaotic environment, the planet has swapped ownership numerous times, and with its rich resources and fertile soil; it was a lavish site for corporations to assemble their base of operations to exploit the planet's assets.

Many corporations came and went, rarely surviving to benefit from the profits due to several factors that plagued Dantooine. And like those that came before, a new corporation sought to lay down its roots in the hopes of reaping the advantages from deep within the planet's bountiful resources. Would they profit where so many others have failed....or would they just become another footnote in the history of Dantooine?

I seldom found the pleasures of mingling with the living, especially the corporate types, with their annoying chatter and brazen talks of past achievements. Always boasting their portfolios, massed together through corporate linguistics and politics and political shifting of allegiances to exploit others for personal advancements; and yet, we Sith are the evil ones. And yet, to my dismay, I had been personally chosen to represent the Dark Empire on this extravagant grand opening of a new corporation upon Dantooine; the Trilon Corporation. Very little was known of this conglomerate other than they were close to Empire space, but more importantly where, if any, was the loyalty of this company placed.

From the disembarking of the transport shuttle, and with Archie perched proudly on my right shoulder, I strolled toward the entrance of the building which was undoubtedly designed by an architect with an eye for beauty, with the bottom tip of my staff clicking eerily upon the cobblestone path leading inwards; my two hilts swinging back and forth on each side of my hips. Upon entering, I was politely asked to provide security with my hilts and staff, a request I briefly ignored whilst I took in the magnificent sights that decorated the inside of this construct with an utter brilliance of both beauty and awe breathtaking glimpses, before focusing my cold, golden eyes on the three smaller security personnel.

Grudgingly I handed over my hilts and staff, crude instruments in comparison to the real power I wielded that has encompassed me for hundreds of years and proceeded to further impregnate the building by passing through the double-doors where people and other entities had gathered together in a seated position around a massive table for this cocktail party. I took my assigned spot, and casually sat down taking notice of those faces that proceeded me as an eager waiter gently laid down a menu in front of me. I responded in kind by sliding the menu back, for there was nothing on there that could possibly sate my thirst or hunger, less Trilon was in possession of a substantial food source for someone of my disposition.

Our gracious host arrived, and as I suspected, went into a rehearsed speech that covered the normal topics one in his position was known to convey, touching on the company's manifest, potential profits, and resurrecting Dantooine's stagnant economy. Then came the round of introductions, and when it came to my turn, I remained silent. I do not give out my name freely as others do, and only the host tonight knew my name because the r.s.v.p. sent on my behalf of the Empire. But one didn't need to know my name to understand who I was or what I represented; the stench of death surrounded me like an odorless perfume. I sat back in my chair as my turn passed, listening now and mentally noting the names of the others.

 

[Liin Terallo]

​

This is my first trip to Dantooine. Of course I have not travelled much, especially as of late. With the recent partnership of NCBC and the N&Z Umbrella Corporation, I have been spending much of my time as of late in preparing my new lab for the start of some exciting research. There have been a few outings since, but mostly it has been for others to pick my brain on biomolecules and their uses. At least that is a topic that I am comfortable with and have vast knowledge of. For anything personal in nature, I am bound to hesitate and rwdirect the conversation back to business for I have no personal life. I only have my work. These types of events are about all of the socializing that I partake in. It is rare these days to not be a Force Wizard and so I cannot help but feel vulnerable and insignificant around them. At least in my labs I do not need to worry about such a thing. The only Force Wizards on New Cov are visitors from elsewhere, so they are the rare ones. Not me.

I quietly sit at the table listening to the speech of our host. His mining company does have potential. His ships perhaps too, however I am not a pilot by any means so a luxury one-seater is of no use to me. Still I have a mind to take a tour of the ships myself if things do not go so well at this table.

Keeping my posture poised and straight, I do not deviate from that in the case that I project laziness. Once the turn of introductions falls onto me, I speak up. "Thank you for the invitation to this lovely establishment. I am Director Liin Terallo of the New Cov Biomolecule Company and the N&Z Umbrella Corporation's Laboratories Division. I am rather curious as to the types of ores that you've been able to source from the local asteroids here and how they may differ from asteroids in other sectors."

Tag: Ova Ziss 17-KR7 "Enigma" Darth Moskvin

 

[Diarch Reign]

​

Location: Dantooine | Trilon Corp. Cocktail Party
Tags: Darth Moskvin 17-KR7 "Enigma" Liin Terallo Ova Ziss

---

Dantooine.. The Diarch had been here much more recently than he had ever before in his life. From training with a young Jedi, to interactions with an enigmatic force user. Now here he was again, at the invitation of a new mining magnate.

The system was within his sites, its location immediately on the border of Diarchy space, and its history and significance to the Jedi called to him as Bastion had. Overtures were already underway to bring the planet into the fold of the Diarchy and under his protection, so this new business was of specific interest to him.

Reign had left his Praetorian Guards with his shuttle and had proceeded to the hanger. Checking his lightsaber with the staff before entering, he had no true concerns though, his mastery of the force was his true weapon.. but he was not here to cause violence.

He entered the room to catch their host’s speech, eying those present he recognized a dear friend in Director Terallo. An envoy of the Dark Empire, which angered the Diarch due to recent conflict and tension, and a droid he did not recognize.

He took his seat in time for his turn at introductions saying “My name is Reign, I am one of the two heads of state of the Diarchy. Many of you are known to me, including my dear friend Director Terallo” he smiled at her and tilted his head in respect “and the Dark Empire and their representative I am very familiar with.”

his steely gaze locked on to the Darth at the table. The recent conflict at Muunilinst still fresh in his mind, as well as her part in it.

He turned again to their host “As Dantooine exists so close to our borders, I wanted to come personally and welcome you to our little slice of the galaxy and perhaps discuss friendship”

 

[Ova Ziss]

"That's what this is about: trade and innovation", Ziss responds to the construct, giving her a looking-over. He was fascinated by the technology that kept her alive: something that had eluded him, as Ziss hadn't traveled very far across the galaxy. Although he was unnerved by her constant eye movements, he was fascinated by the construct and her employer. If Trilon reverse-engineered even half of that construct's power, they could mine the outer rim where the real (and sometimes, literal) gold hid itself away. "Your very presence is proof of the innovation across the galaxy which, under certain circumstances, has been…squelched. I hope to repair that."

Darth Moskvin remained silent when given a chance to introduce herself. Ova Ziss didn't hesitate. He had planned this dinner for some time, and this was just another item in his risk assessment. He smiled warmly, but you immediately sense that his smile is strained. "Ladies and gentlemen and others, this is Darth Moskvin, representing the Dark Empire. She is another most esteemed guest." Ziss lifted his glass in a genuine show of respect. It was difficult for Moskvin to judge Ova Ziss's opinion of the Dark Empire, but at the very least, he was not setting out to deliberately cause trouble. He was hiding something, but Ova was at least remaining hospitable. Darth Moskvin would sense that she is correct, however: Ova invited her to Dantooine for a reason.

"Well met, Director Terallo." Ova Ziss lifts his glass. "Ah yes, that's the most exciting part. Dantooine's asteroid survey has revealed the presence of dedlanite – blaster ore – in certain pockets. We thought that it only came from one place in the whole galaxy, when it turns out we had it right here at home." He mutters. "Acquiring the ore is another question."

Ova continued. "And then of course, Director, there are the typical goodies. Staple ores, as it were." Ova swirled the cocktail and took a sip. "Gold, iron, platinum, lithium. Everyone from moisture farmers to High Inquisitors need the staple ores. With those, we can reconstitute ships that are lost in the asteroid belts. We can fix your ships." He looked around the room. "Asteroid mining is huge business."

"Once in a while, though…" Ziss leaned in for dramatic effect, giving a wink. "We get something special."

When Diarch Reign introduced himself, Ova Ziss raised a glass to him, too. "Diarch Reign. I've heard of your name from every direction, and it is great to finally meet you at last. I have to agree: it's much better to make friends these days."

Ova addressed the whole of the table. "Which brings me to the crux of my proposal…"

Ova leaned in towards the VIP table. He gestured to his bodyguard, Mr. Fitzgerald, who was a large and bulky Mandalorian wearing a regal red uniform.

Mr. Fitzgerald produced a holo-map container, which Ziss set in front of him. The big bodyguard presses the top of the holo-map, and the landscape expanded to show a topographical and mining map of the galaxy. Ziss pulled out a wireless marker device and draws a large blue circle around Dantooine.

"I am proposing that we work together to make Dantooine an economic hub: a neutral location. We each work together to keep Dantooine and its trade corridor safe, and in return, nobody attacks anyone else. If we can expand the domestic asteroid mining operations, we will all benefit in credits. The Trade Federation will take a far smaller cut than any one of us, but they too will protect Dantooine. They will help ease business into the business centers."

Ova Ziss draws a circle around Taris, which is in the Galactic Alliance's subspace and surrounded by numerous factions.

"The proposal concerns Dantooine, but also the areas around Dantooine."

Ova draws small dots over the Dark Empire, the Mandalorians, the Diarchy, and some of the other factions that are a reasonable distance away from Dantooine.

"You see, I can sell products to the Diarchy, the Sith, the Mandalorians, and even the Lost Jedi all day long." Ova's eyes scan the table, addressing the faction leaders in turn, even the quiet Darth Moskvin. "However, the wealthiest customers and the largest equipment provisions are from the Galactic Alliance."

Ova Ziss draws out a trade corridor between Dantooine and Taris. He looks consumed as he draws this, and then places two large red X's on the map.

"These people, these Mandalorians who are blocking off economic access to the Galactics - they are the problem. They are constantly sniping at Trilon ships. They are demanding payments beyond just refueling and resupplying. Frankly, and no offense to any of you, these pirates in my subspace are a menace. I don't think they even showed their face here. They couldn't bear to look me in the eyes as they blast my ships and destroy my toys."

Ova turned to his bodyguard, the bulking Mandalorian.

"You, you're a Mandalorian. What do YOU think of the piracy, Fitzgerald?"

Mr. Fitzgerald cracked his knuckles loudly and speaks without hesitation. "Not a fan."

17-KR7 "Enigma" Diarch Reign Darth Moskvin Liin Terallo Makai Dashiell

 

[Saija Kwann]

I'm starting to think more and more that taking this job was a bad idea. I hated getting back into character, a reminder of the old life. But desperate times call for desperate measures. The gig was simple enough; corporate espionage/insider intel.

The client didn't figure in alot of expenses on my side, and could barely front the credits. Interstellar transport costs alot of money when you don't have a starship.

Off-world accomodations aren't cheap either, especially where I'm going. I'm used to sleeping in storage closets or pulga stables. Now i'm off to the "civilized world" where the beds are more comfy but the crime is just as sleazy, they just make it all look nicer.

I needed to take my dress to a tailor; it was for too risqué for the type of company I'd be in, So alterations you can add to the bill. Makeup, shoes, jewelry, accessories....Oh, and a full session at the day spa just to get the stink of manure and machine oil off my skin, which was in desperate need of moisturizer.

Finally, the slicer he got for the job was a complete hack, so I had to forge the security passes myself. Besides, I don't trust the work of other people outside of Darkwire.

{Security Checkpoint:} guard looks me over, ogles a bit... -- then he becomes all business


Once I'm inside, i'm wrangled with the other Twi'lek girls in the service area outside the main hall. We're assigned to various sections of the room as servers.

"You! Take this!" -- he shoves a tray of assorted cocktails into my hands

(more to come)

 

[17-KR7 "Enigma"]

Location: Dantooine Cocktail Party
Tags: Ova Ziss Darth Moskvin Liin Terallo Diarch Reign Saija Kwann

Enigma sat in polite silence as Ova Ziss laid out his proposal, or more accurately, the protocol droid she puppeteered. Her photoreceptors scanning every detail of the holo-map and the expressions of the other guests. Her mechanical mind worked at incredible speeds, analyzing the data presented, cross-referencing it with her own extensive archives, and calculating probabilities for every possible outcome. She began, from a nearby black-site, to discreetly look for ways to bribe the cocktail party's security for access to the electronic surveillance equipment present. She deemed that she only needed it to expand her information pool, to note every guest, every action, every movement.

When Ova finished speaking and Mr. Fitzgerald cracked his knuckles in response to the mention of Mandalorian piracy, Enigma decided to interject. She leaned slightly forward, adopting a posture of calm engagement, her tone as smooth and measured as always.

"Mr. Ziss, your proposal is as ambitious as it is pragmatic," she began, her amber-lit gaze briefly resting on the holo-map before shifting to meet his. "A trade corridor between Dantooine and Taris could indeed unlock unprecedented economic growth for this region, provided that stability can be ensured."

She gestured subtly toward the red X's marking the trouble spots on the map. "The problem you describe is not unique to Mandalorians, though they have historically been prominent in such matters. Piracy is an inevitability in unregulated space, especially in regions where governance is contested or fragmented. It thrives on opportunity and, above all, inconsistency in response."

Her head tilted slightly, giving the impression of thoughtful consideration. "It is commendable that you seek to make Dantooine a neutral hub, a space where all factions might benefit. However, neutrality in practice can often be more aspirational than achievable. To ensure your trade corridor's success, the question you must ask yourself is this: who truly stands to gain the most from Dantooine's stability, and who is best positioned to ensure it?"

She let her words hang in the air for a moment before continuing. "You suggest a collaborative effort, and on paper, it is a wise strategy. Yet, I would posit that a singular, decisive authority—one unencumbered by factional allegiances—may be better suited to managing the complexities of such an endeavor. This authority could enforce order along the corridor, mediate disputes, and respond swiftly to threats like piracy without the entanglements of divided loyalties."

Her gaze turned toward Mr. Fitzgerald, the subtle hum of her servos punctuating the pause. "As for the Mandalorians who disrupt your operations, it is likely they act not out of ideology but out of necessity—or greed. Addressing their actions will require more than brute force. You may find that calculated negotiation, paired with a demonstration of strength, yields more sustainable results."

Enigma's photoreceptors dimmed slightly, signaling a return to a neutral stance. "Of course, these are merely observations from one who values efficiency and long-term stability. Your vision for Dantooine is bold, and bold visions often require bold solutions."

She leaned back, her amber gaze sweeping across the table to gauge the reactions of the other attendees. While her tone had been diplomatic, her words carried subtle implications—an invitation for the table to consider not only the viability of Ova's proposal but also the potential for a more centralized, decisive power to emerge in its execution. To Enigma, this gathering was more than a dinner; it was an experiment, a test of who among these players might serve as an ally, a pawn, or an obstacle in her broader designs.

 

[Ova Ziss]

Ova Ziss rubs his goatee thoughtfully in response to Enigma's words. The question in particularly tickled his fancy. He smiled. "You're asking me who benefits the most – and who is most responsible. Why, it's the people, of course. The people of Dantooine. I'm coming here, in a sense, as their humble ambassador. It's not my own anger that I'm expressing. This response—" he began, pointing at the two large red X's on the holodeck, "--is measured."

A Twi'Lek woman arrives with Ova's appetizer, a wedding soup. He receives it. Several other guests around the table are also served. Ova sips his soup slowly and carefully from the spoon, in the same way that he sipped his cocktail: politely, with a bit of flair. "Thank you, dear." He nods to the Twi'Lek server.

Ova continued to address 17-KR7 "Enigma" . "I've received hundreds of communications, hundreds and hundreds of them. Complaints about the pirates. Complaints that the attackers bore Mandalorian flags, Mandalorian gear. Other gear, sure. But mostly Mandalorian. [...] You're correct. There needs to be a singular authority to help the economic situation, not a bunch of riff-raff fighting for subsistence."

"There's an old space station here on Dantooine. It's badly out of shape, but with the help and resources that some of you have, I'm certain that we could restore it to its former glory. I'd love to see the pirates chew through that. Ha! How's that for a singular authority?" He sips his soup, tasting it. "I rather like that name. A sort of...United Trade Authority. Something like that."

"You're right. A bold solution." Ova Ziss smirks at 17-KR7 "Enigma" . "I would propose, also, that the solution needs to be proportional." Ova slowly raises his spoon, blowing on it. "If they want to disrupt our operations?" He takes a bite. "We disrupt theirs." He pats his mouth with a napkin. "Likewise, if they will buy our products and fill our coffers, and stop looting within this corridor, then perhaps they can be a part of this…'Authority'."

Ova takes a moment to think. I've got one of them on my side, at the least. The gears in Ova's minds started moving, and he looked at Darth Moskvin . "I believe you could be of assistance with these pirates. You have something of a…reputation for boldness. What do you think of these musings about an 'Authority'?" Ova nodded politely to Darth Moskvin and then looked at his soup to avoid making eye contact with the Sith. "After all, how can one assert Authority without strength?"

 

[Diarch Reign]

​

Location: Dantooine | Cocktail Party
Tags: Ova Ziss Darth Moskvin 17-KR7 "Enigma" Liin Terallo

---

The Diarch listened intently to the business man, and to the machine as they spoke. It was a worthwhile proposal to be fair. And while businesses generally had the ability to operate independently, the meetings between the planetary leadership of Dantooine and the Diarchy had been going well. Reign did not think it much longer until the fair planet joined the fold.

In respect of this, he chose his words carefully he was more than willing to entertain the idea of a trade hub, force knows the Diarchy needed one. The Galaxy was unsure when Muunilinst would recover from the recent war upon its surface.

“Mr. Ziss, as I’m sure you are aware. The people of Dantooine will soon join with us, as full planetary members of The Diarchy.. with that in mind, I’m fully willing to listen to your proposal. If the people are speaking through you, it is our obligation to listen.” Reign paused for a moment, letting his words reach those around the table. No doubt the Sith there already was aware.

“A trade hub benefits not only the Diarchy, but the truly important people.. the citizens. To that aim, I would be willing to finance and help to man the space station you are speaking of. As well as helping protect the trade corridor you described from any and all…” he looked sharply at the Sith and Construct seated at the table “That would seek to disrupt the flow of credits to the noble people of Dantooine. The shift in control of the planet does not need to disrupt your trade, we are willing to maintain the space’s neutrality with the men and women of the Diarchy to aid in protecting the sanctity of the agreement”

He had locked eyes with the business man again, he maintained his friendly attitude towards Ziss and for all intents and purposes was genuinely interested in seeing this ideal come to fruition.

 

[Liin Terallo]

​

I dip my head in acknowledgement to Diarch Reign. Having helped to fund his Empire in it's beginnings, I had been meaning to visit to see for myself what New Cov's credits have brought. But perhaps that will be at another time.

I listen quietly, allowing my gaze to drift towards the map. Neutral space is what New Cov has enjoyed for centuries; and we continue to do so. Our isolation and keeping from gaining the attention of the major powers has maintained that neutrality. It also helps that our resource is not found anywhere else in the Galaxy which thereby maintains a high value of worth for it. We did not have customers among the major powers, so that kept our resource relatively safe from pirates.

As for the Mandalorians; New Cov has not had bad dealings with them for some of them make up our security forces and protect us from attack. They helped to secure New Cov when a rogue Sith had attempted a hostile takeover and have maintained that continued security ever since.

"I believe that a negotiation between yourself and the Mandalorians might be beneficial without a need for exerting force. Asserting yourself amongst them might only give you a push back that would have the opposite effect of the safe trade route that you are after." I am not entirely confident in my words being heard for when it comes to the Galaxy's conflicts; I have never been a part of them. But sometimes an outside perspective can hold value in itself.

Tags: Ova Ziss 17-KR7 "Enigma" Diarch Reign Darth Moskvin Saija Kwann

 

[Saija Kwann]

A Twi'Lek woman arrives with Ova's appetizer, a wedding soup. He receives it. Several other guests around the table are also served. Ova sips his soup slowly and carefully from the spoon, in the same way that he sipped his cocktail: politely, with a bit of flair. "Thank you, dear." He nods to the Twi'Lek server.

eyes look for a brief moment, then cast down -- a barely perceptible Mona Lisa smile, nods deferentially like a good servant
continues to work the room while gleaning what I can

 

[Ova Ziss]

Ova Ziss points at the Diarch Reign with his spoon, clearly impressed. "Now, there's a man who knows what he's talking about. You, Diarch, you understand business. It isn't anything personal, it's about ending the economic disruptions." He smirks as he finishes his soup and returns to his cocktail, clasping it with the class one would expect from an executive of his caliber. "--but that will take the efforts of everyone at the table, and some who are not."

He gestures at the entire table. "And folks, to be certain, the little power-play you've made against the international bankers - it was inspired." He pauses as he drops his little truth bomb: the people at the table would know that Ova Ziss usually works with the Trade Federation. "You think I'm angry, but I'm quite pleased with it all! What the Trade Federation doesn't know won't hurt them." Ziss smirks. "The last thing we need are a bunch of rotten, no-good bankers and space lawyers, jacking the interest rates beyond what even the Empire or the Alliance would charge. A stick with rubber eyeballs could be running Muunilist, and it would be an improvement."

Ova Ziss raised his eyebrows at Liin Terallo 's suggestion. "I'm not so sure negotiations would be effective. I invited the Mandalorians here - they didn't show, did they? They didn't even send a representative, as far as I know." He swirls his cocktail and looks around the room, as if expecting a Mandalorian to show up at any minute.

"I guess the Mandalorians couldn't stand the thought of...handing over their weapons." Ziss puts particular venom in the last three words. Ziss smirks, taking a sip.

Ova Ziss notices that the Twi'Lek woman [ Saija Kwann ] seems to be paying attention to their conversation. Ziss is used to being overheard, but not so much.

Ziss calls the Twi'Lek woman [ Saija Kwann ] over. "Hey, you. Yes, the Twi'Lek server. What's your name? [...] You're from this planet, right? Tell me - what would you think if Dantooine became part of the Diarchy?"

 

[Saija Kwann]

Ova Ziss notices that the Twi'Lek woman seems to be paying attention to their conversation. Ziss is used to being overheard, but not so much.

Ziss calls the Twi'Lek woman over. "Hey, you. Yes, the Twi'Lek server. What's your name?

"Mine name...Narshaza." My old stage name. The Hutt who used to be my handler in another life told me what it meant in Huttese; like a lewd slang word for part of the female anatomy. A blessing and a curse wrapped all in one.

I answer back, louder than a whisper but loud enough to be heard in the bustling room full of commotion. My native Twi'leki accent comes out; Speaking in broken Basic was key to passing myself off as a rube. Slightly husky, with a twinge of flirtation, but not laying it on too strong. A good Socialator can soothe her clientele with her voice as much as her "Narshaza"

Playing dumb is something I do well. I spent the first part of my life in a state of forced ignorance along with the other abuses of slave life. We weren't taught to read or speak Basic fluently. The only numbers we knew were credits. The only words we knew were common phrases for typical client interactions and not much else.

[...] You're from this planet, right?

shakes head no -- Most slave girls weren't. Of course a Corpo pig wouldn't know that.

Tell me - what would you think if Dantooine became part of the Diarchy?"

freezes -- I'd really love to say what I really think about the shameless and open dictatorship of the intergalactic financial class...

I get the impression from the opulent splendor to his haughty disposition that this guy has a very high opinion of himself and what he thinks he can accomplish. Playing everyone off against one another is his real gambit; making everyone think their interests are aligned but coincidentally they also happen to align with his. The fact that he's even considering cutting a deal with the pirates:

"...if they will buy our products and fill our coffers, and stop looting within this corridor, then perhaps they can be a part of this…'Authority'."

Like they would ever pay you protection money or be your peon underlings. You really don't know who you're dealing with, do you?
after a brief pause which feels like an eternity...

"Good is credits. Together working, more is credits, yes?" -- Bows my head to humor him

 

[Liin Terallo]

Power-play against the international bankers? I have a sip of my soup to hide any look of dumbfoundedness that I may have. Ever since NCBC's merger, I have not been informed of the Corporate Interests Guild's meetings or actions. In truth I have only been made to attend should Tertius C. Nargath be unable to be there himself. The last movement that I was aware of was of the embargo against the Dark Empire. But that is all.

Of course our host could be speaking of something else entirely; namely anything involving the super powers of the Galaxy of which I most certainly have no part of. Nor would I expect to ever take part. At least in not any part that would hold any meaning or effect on anyone.

I raise a brow as our host retorts against my suggestion. I was unaware that he had invited the Mandalorians here. In my experience the most successful negotiations were done on neutral grounds with a neutral mediator. There was none offered here as far as I am aware. But it is not my place to speak up about it.

Instead I turn my attention to the Twi'lek lady that our host had put on the spot in front of everyone. These actions told me a lot about his character, much of which I find unappealing. But there is nothing that I could say about the kind of upbringing that he had.

So I remain silent instead of starting an argument. I would not be a good guest if I were to start one.

Tag: Ova Ziss Diarch Reign 17-KR7 "Enigma" Darth Moskvin Saija Kwann

 

[17-KR7 "Enigma"]

Location: Dantooine Cocktail Party
Tags: Ova Ziss Darth Moskvin Liin Terallo Diarch Reign Saija Kwann

Enigma remained a silent observer as the conversation ebbed and flowed, her mechanical mind processing every word, gesture, and nuance with calculated precision. Ova Ziss's flamboyant demeanor and grand ambitions were transparent to her—a man leveraging boldness and theatrics to mask his anxiety in the presence of far greater powers. She found his overt disdain for the absent Mandalorians fascinating, a blend of frustration and opportunism that revealed both his vulnerability and his calculated desire to assert dominance.

When the Twi'Lek, "Narshaza," responded with her carefully measured simplicity, Enigma detected layers of thought beneath her outwardly naive tone. The pause before her response spoke volumes, as did the slight tension in her frame—an organic hiding something deeper. Noted, filed, and cross-referenced for future use.

When the room settled, Enigma shifted slightly, her posture drawing subtle attention as her amber-lit photoreceptors brightened. She spoke with the same smooth, refined tone as before, calibrated for calm authority.

"Mr. Ziss, your vision is commendable, though fraught with complexities that merit further consideration." She gestured toward the holo-map with an elegant movement of her hand. "You rightly highlight the disruptive influence of the Mandalorians, and yet, even absent, they remain a pivotal variable in this equation. Their absence is telling—it reflects a disregard not just for your authority, but for the very premise of neutrality that you seek to establish."

Her photoreceptors dimmed slightly, signaling a thoughtful pause. "Neutrality, you see, is a delicate balance. It is not merely the absence of conflict but the presence of trust—trust that all parties involved can benefit without fear of exploitation or disproportionate consequences. Your proposal to include the Mandalorians in this… United Trade Authority, contingent upon their cooperation, is an intriguing gambit. However, as Director Terallo has astutely pointed out, forceful assertion may provoke resistance rather than compliance."

Enigma's gaze swept across the table, her amber lights passing over Diarch Reign, Director Terallo, and the Sith representatives, lingering momentarily on the quiet Darth Moskvin before returning to Ziss. "To establish the kind of authority you envision, you must ask yourself: what does each party value most, and how can that value be secured without compromising your broader goal?"

She turned her head slightly toward the holo-map, her tone taking on a subtly sharper edge. "The Mandalorians, for instance, may value autonomy above all else—a currency not easily traded. To extract their cooperation, one must offer them a stake in the corridor that satisfies their pride and pragmatism alike. The alternative, of course, is to dismantle their operations entirely, but such a course would come at a cost—one not just measured in credits but in lives and the very stability you seek to foster."

Her attention shifted back to Ziss, her tone softening just enough to project a sense of collaboration. "Your station proposal is a bold step, a symbolic foundation for the authority you wish to build. If executed wisely, it could serve as the cornerstone of an enduring economic network. But its success hinges not on strength alone, as the Diarch rightly pointed out, but on the perception of legitimacy. A united front among those at this table, supported by the trust of the people, would lend such legitimacy. A misstep, however—a failure to account for dissenting interests—could fracture the very neutrality you aim to achieve."

Enigma leaned back slightly, her photoreceptors dimming to their neutral state. "These are merely observations, of course. The galaxy is a complex system, and solutions rarely come without compromise. Still, as you aptly said, Mr. Ziss—bold solutions are required. The question remains: how bold are you willing to be?"

Her final words hung in the air like a challenge, a deliberate provocation meant to measure Ova Ziss's resolve and test the reactions of the other attendees. Enigma's mechanical mind calculated dozens of possible outcomes from her statement, each one feeding into her broader analysis of the players at the table. To her, this was more than a negotiation—it was an opportunity to identify the weak points in the galaxy's power structures and determine where her influence might best be applied.

 

[Ova Ziss]

Ova Ziss was an intelligent man indeed, and one thing he was quite careful about was the people whom he employed. Although he didn't suspect anything about the Twi'Lek server - not yet, anyways - he wanted to keep an extra close watch on her. It wasn't something shallow about this one that he enjoyed, like her appearance or her shy demeanor, oh no. This one, perhaps, had actual skills. This particular Twi'Lek was more than just some slave server girl, or a dancer, or hostess. However, his years in the business world had led Ova to adopt some rather unkind tactics. He knew that Saija Kwann was nervous, and not at all a server, and he wanted to play with his prey. The problem with "Narshaza"'s plan was that he spoke Twi'Lek - quite proficiently - and personally interviewed the servers to make sure that they could speak common. But, she couldn't.

"Narshaza? Isn't that a---?" Ova clears his throat. "An interesting name. Yes, yes, you're right. And I suppose your opinion matters the most."

"You, sir", Ova said authoritatively to one of the security guards. "I need you to do something for me." This is perfect, he thought. She must be sweating bullets over what I'm going to do. Ova put down his cocktail: the first time that you've seen it leave his hand since he finished his appetizer. He paused. He waited. He savored the wait. Then, he let Saija Kwann off the hook. "Go into the kitchens. Tell them I am relieving Narshaza for the next hour. She is going to be sitting here with us." Ova whispered to the person beside him, who chose another place at the table to sit. This left Narshaza to sit right next to Ova Ziss.

Ova snapped his finger and produced another Twi'Lek server. He spoke to her and said, in perfect Twi'Lek, "Give the woman sitting next to me whatever she wishes from the menu."

[...]

17-KR7 "Enigma" was truly an incredible construct, and Ova Ziss was genuinely impressed by her strategic thinking. Ova listened intently to the arguments made and processed them each as genuine concerns. "The foundation of trust with the United Trade Authority will begin with the Space Station. I wonder if there is a way to offer the Mandalorians some kind of involvement. The corridor must proceed through their space: there's no way around it. Perhaps, if they enjoy looting and destroying ships so badly, we can simply pay them to do it for that leg of the trip; pay them to be a peace force within the corridor." Ova thinks carefully. "But, if their usefulness ends, we can...to put it politely...designate somebody else to carry out the short-term security role. We, the Authority, maintain...well, the Authority!" Ova chuckles, and most of his lackeys chuckle along with him.

"We need an angle to offer the Mandalorians, and I see the angle as this: we wipe out the corrupt underworld influences in Dantooine and the corridor itself, and bring order back to this slice of the Outer Rim." Ova leans back against the booth. "We do need a permanent security force, and the Mandalorians love their violence. The only common enemy I see between all of these interests, is piracy."

"Unless someone else would like to offer up a different common enemy?"


17-KR7 "Enigma" 17-KR7 "Enigma" Diarch Reign Diarch Reign Darth Moskvin Darth Moskvin Liin Terallo Liin Terallo

EDIT: The tags are broke beyond broke, folks, and I just can't seem to fix them. So, it is what it is. Sorry.

 

[Saija Kwann]

"You, sir", Ova said authoritatively to one of the security guards. "I need you to do something for me." This is perfect, he thought. She must be sweating bullets over what I'm going to do. Ova put down his cocktail: the first time that you've seen it leave his hand since he finished his appetizer. He paused. He waited. He savored the wait.

I've been in far, far worse predicaments than this one.

...This left Narshaza to sit right next to Ova Ziss.

Do you think that makes me less dangerous, or more dangerous?

Ova snapped his finger and produced another Twi'Lek server. He spoke to her and said, in perfect Twi'Lek, "Give the woman sitting next to me whatever she wishes from the menu."

"Thanking you, Boss Ziss." -- nods, smiles, plays along

 

[Liin Terallo]

The droid construct is correct and conveys much of what I had on my mind, however it does so with more eloquent wording. I continue sipping my soup in quiet contemplation.

New Cov has no enemies. So I could hardly share a common one with our guest and those in attendence. Even with the trade embargo that NCBC has signed onto against the Dark Empire, I can hardly count them as an enemy of New Cov. They as a people are not an enemy. It is only their business practices that are disliked. And there have been no attacks coordinated by them on New Cov at all.

"I believe that it would be a good idea to take into account of what the Mandalorians would want. It is clear that they take offence to tresspassers in their space, which could be the reason behind their looting of your shipments. You should not ignore their sovereignty, but respect it, work with it instead of against it."

That is my opinion at least. Yet even while I was speaking I kept a close watch on the power play he was using against the Twi'lek lady. Such behavior is deplorable. But I keep that fully to myself.

Tags: Ova Ziss 17-KR7 "Enigma" Darth Moskvin Saija Kwann Diarch Reign

 

[Makai Dashiell]

COCKTAIL PARTY

Wearing & Gear : X | X | X | X | X Interacting With : Ova Ziss Liin Terallo 17-KR7 "Enigma" Darth Moskvin Saija Kwann Diarch Reign

Having arrived late to the party, Makai had worked his way through the crowd in time to watch the proposal of the trade routes. Sipping his mocktail, he remained quiet, at the fringes of the VIP table. Sipping his mocktail, iced blue eyes watched the trade route take ship, the proposal slowly add in more detail. He saw several problems wrong with the entire plan from his own perspective. Granted, he was wise enough to know his own perspective was limited.

With the Twi'lek server joining them, he assumed one of two things. One, their host was looking to invite the girl to his room after the party and was trying to make her feel his attention now. Or two, Mister Ziss was trying to look like a man of the people. To win over their confidence.

"Unless someone else would like to offer up a different common enemy?"

At this, Makai chuckled a little.

"A common enemy to us all is any threat that stops the flow of credits."

Unlike some in attendance, he saw the benefit of neutrality. It was something he liked to think he had achieved. Business currently spanned across nearly every government but the Dark Empire. Some a little easier to work with than others yet it was achievable. As for Dantooine...

"I am not sure Dantooine is an ideal location for something of neutrality. Once Diarch Reign and his government takes control of Dantooine, no longer will the planet and its people be an autonomous entity. Correct me if I am wrong, Diarch. Any planet under control of a government or entity will always have to bend to its will."