Private Cutthroat Convenience

[Telemaco Bento]

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Location: Coruscant, Starcraft Shipyards HQ
Tag: Everette Clairmont

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Expanding Cravepoint vending machines to spacecraft has been a goal of Telemaco’s for a while. Although there was always plenty of space out in space. Spacecraft did not have that same luxury. It’s pretty easy to flood the streets of a neighborhood with cheap micro franchises. But on a ship space and storage was limited and valuable. Logistics also had their own hurdles that needed to be overcome.

So this meeting would be a good start to test things on a more stationary vessel. Telemaco would be meeting with a representative for the station to work out a deal. To place Cravepoint vending machines on the station.

However, Telemaco himself was not actually going in person. Which had some pros and cons for him. On one hand he didn’t need to travel out to be there. On the other, his timezone meant that he had to stay out well into the early morning just for this meeting. Standing in his office on Nar Shaddaa the pink man rubbed his face some tiredly before grabbing a hot cup of coffee from his desk to try to simulate the effect of gaining some hidden energy within his body.

Meanwhile a small shuttle craft landed at the headquarters of Starcraft Shipyards on Coruscant. As the loading ramp descended a simple Protocol Droid stepped down along with an astromech rolling closely behind. The protocol droid stiffly turned back to the smaller companion and spoke. “I would presume Master Bento would want you to stay with the ship. Also make sure that BRT-PL knows we’ve arrived in one piece.” The astromech chirped a reply before rolling back into the shuttle. A moment later they greeted themselves with the Starcraft Shipyards representative. “Salutations, I am L-94 for human cyborg relations and a physical representative for Cravepoint LLC. Now I’m sure you would like to speak with Master Bento.” The rather insectoid looking droid then presented a little hologram projector in its hand. Activating it the small translucent image of Telemaco appeared. Lodged between his teeth was a large cigarra which he promptly removed and placed back on an ashtray on his desk behind him.

“Greetings from Nar Shaddaa. I’m Telemaco Bento, CEO of Cravepoint. Apologies again for not getting to be there in person.” Telemaco said, the tone of his rather raspy voice coming through from the translucent 3D image of him in the palm of the protocol droid. ​

 

[Everette Clairmont]

Telemaco Bento
Everette Clairmont observed as the protocol droid entered the meeting room, followed closely by an astromech that paused at the threshold. He stood, offering a professional, courteous nod as the droid introduced itself.

"Good day, I am Everette Clairmont, Corporate Liaison for Starcraft Shipyards and Star Bazar. It's a pleasure to welcome Cravepoint's representative," he said smoothly. Everette's eyes shifted briefly to the small projector in the droid's grasp, and in an instant, the holographic image of Telemaco Bento flickered to life. The CEO of Cravepoint greeted him, cigarra between his fingers, offering an apology for his absence.

"Mr. Bento," Everette began, inclining his head slightly, "I appreciate your making the time for this meeting, even at such an inconvenient hour." His words were polite, his tone warm but formal, as he gestured towards the seating arrangement. He remained standing, a deliberate choice to establish the connection without unnecessary delay. "We understand the difficulties of remote meetings, but I trust that we'll manage to address all our concerns effectively."

As Telemaco's holographic image flickered in the room's light, Everette couldn't help but mentally note the unusual approach. Sending a physical droid—when a simple holocall might have sufficed—suggested intent, perhaps signaling the seriousness of Cravepoint's ambitions here. But given that the emissary was a protocol droid, the significance seemed diluted. Still, such questions would remain unspoken; the purpose here was to establish a working relationship, and Everette was not one to dwell on minor peculiarities in the middle of negotiations.

"We are optimistic about the prospect of expanding Cravepoint's services onto the station," Everette continued. He adjusted his glasses before clasping his hands loosely before him, his stance relaxed yet attentive.

 

[Telemaco Bento]

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Location: Coruscant, Starcraft Shipyards HQ
Tag: Everette Clairmont

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“Well you know how it is for folks who are well traveled. We all gotta operate on our own unique time zone, and I don’t doubt we will manage to accomplish what we’ve set out to do here.” Telemaco assured Everette confidently. He wasn’t worried about using the protocol droid as a surrogate body for himself. In his office on Nar Shaddaa he had a screen feeding him visual feedback from the droid’s own photoreceptors. Even if the latency wasn’t that great with the tens of thousands of lightyears between them at this moment.

“The optimism is mutual, now I should probably ask this first just to get it out of the way. Is this new Lucky 7’s Starport expected to be a frequent flier or is it gonna be stationed in the same spot for a while?” It was a rather crucial piece of information that Telemaco had to know getting into this. The supply chain of his enterprise was a well oiled machine and needing to constantly play catch up with a space station that changed locations every week or month would prove to be a challenge for Cravepoint.

That was the primary hurdle for him spreading his vending machine “micro-franchises” to space craft. Planets don’t move, at least not fast enough to cause problems. Along with space stations were also passenger liners that were a worthy contender as well for him. Since they could have pre planned routes that could make it easier to work around. As we waited for Everette's response, Telemaco reached behind him on his desk to drink the hot cup of coffee he placed there moments ago. Bringing it to his lips to idly sip on.​

 

[Everette Clairmont]

Telemaco Bento

"Oh, no, nothing quite like that," Everette responded with a reassuring smile. "The new starport is part of a growing network of locations. We already have several sites being installed, with more on the way. Our vision is to expand Lucky 7's across key points throughout the galaxy—providing stable rest stops for travelers and spacers alike."

He adjusted his glasses, keeping his tone measured and professional. "The purpose of these starports goes beyond rest stops. They are part of a broader distribution network designed to assist in the supply and resupply of multiple enterprises. Starbazar itself will function as a logistical provider, much like a combination of a convenience store, an online marketplace, and a supply chain facilitator. Our plan is to offer all kinds of domestic goods, logistical support, and more—covering essentials as well as niche needs."

Everette gave a slight nod, indicating the additional companies involved. "Beyond Starbazar, we have Solarix, a luxury speeder company, Starcraft Shipyards for military-grade starships, and Force Forged Saberworks—an elite weapons manufacturing group that operates almost like a club of inventors. There's also Steam Works Productions, led by Valin Zenth, which specializes in bespoke manufacturing tailored to individual needs, and SPEC TECH Innovations, which focuses on cutting-edge technologies like quantum encryption and advanced optical solutions."

He leaned forward slightly adjusting his cufflinks. "Our distribution network could also work in an agreement to assist with resupply for Cravepoint, as we have plans to continually update and support these companies with efficient logistics. The Lucky 7's Starports are designed to remain stationary for the most part, providing consistency for travelers. However, they do possess the ability to relocate if needed—primarily for maintenance, upgrades, or if they need to be moved out of potential danger. This mobility is intended more as a safety and service measure, rather than routine movement."

He offered Telemaco a confident nod and a warm smile, "You won't be chasing moving targets, Mr. Bento. The goal here is to create dependable hubs throughout the galaxy—stations that can provide essential services without disruption, offering a stable platform for Cravepoint to operate effectively within our broader network."

 

[Telemaco Bento]

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Location: Coruscant, Starcraft Shipyards HQ
Tag: Everette Clairmont

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Telemaco simply listened to Everettes rather lengthy explanations about the supposed future of the Lucky 7’s Station(s). Apparently there were to be multiple franchises across the galaxy. Functioning as rest stops. Because of the comparatively low cost of investment on Telemaco’s behalf the risk of things going poorly for the Lucky 7’s Stations would be rather minimal for his own business.

However, the ‘zeltron’ was a bit skeptical about the idea of working alongside the other companies' own supply chains. His own general sense of distrust for human error not making the idea of having to rely on Starcraft Shipyards less appealing. Fearing the headaches that may come from needing to deal with other people’s mistakes instead of his own. But there were still pros and cons still.

He was also surprised by the number of other subsidiaries. It seemed as though whoever was at the top of the pyramid had their fingers in a lot of pies.

“That’s reassuring. I was concerned that my company might need to be playing catch up with new locations. This will help get my brand starbound and not confined to surfaces of major urbanized planets.”

“Now I suppose we should begin to discuss things like the number of vending machines you want on the station. As well as the share of the profits that you’ll be earning from them.” Telemaco could be rather flexible in this regard. But it would be foolish for him to come off as too lenient here.​

 

[Everette Clairmont]

Telemaco Bento

Everette nodded. "Absolutely. Given the station size and foot traffic, I propose seventy-five machines per station in high-traffic areas like lounges and docking bays to maximize visibility. With ten ports planned, that would be a total of 750 vending machines. Can Cravepoint cover that number in terms of production and deployment?"

He adjusted the holographic projection. "Regarding profit sharing, I propose starting with a sixty-forty split. If sales targets are exceeded by 20%, we adjust to sixty-five-thirty-five for those high-performing machines. To streamline operations, I suggest a joint task force. Cravepoint manages stocking and maintenance, while Starbazar ensures access and monitors integration. A direct line of communication will keep things running smoothly."

Everette smiled. "These adjustments should help us maximize value and stay flexible. Looking ahead, I suggest we set a timeline for reviewing the contract after the first year of deployment. At that point, we could evaluate increasing the number of machines to about one hundred per station, depending on demand. That would bring the total up to 1,000 machines across all ten ports. How do you feel about this proposal?"

 

[Telemaco Bento]

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Location: Coruscant, Starcraft Shipyards HQ
Tag: Everette Clairmont

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“Well I must say that I’m rather grateful for the amount of consideration you’ve put into this. A lot of times businesses need a lot of hand holding from me just to learn that they're practically getting free money from me in exchange for only a few square feet worth of space.” Telemaco replied. “To be honest I don’t even feel the need to negotiate the price. Although a 40% cut is far more than most of my arrangements I see there being value in things other than raw peggats, or credits in this case. Since each machine also functions somewhat like a small billboard style advertisement.”

Then the holographic image of Telemaco paused for a moment and brought his hand up to his chin to think some. “However, 750 machines is much more than I considered for something like this. It’s a pretty big investment and nothing is risk free of course.” Then again this was for 10 whole locations. 75 per station didn’t seem like too much when he thought of it like that. Doing some quick math in his head he estimated that the cost of new machines needed would be about 40,000 peggats. If he were to use machines already in his inventory. That wouldn't including the cost of stocking them and maintenance.

“Hmm, That could work but I would request then that some storage space be allocated for Cravepoint inventory per station just to make things run a bit smoother. It should make supplying the machines easier.” He knew that space was limited on vessels like the Lucky 7’s Stations. But Telemaco believed that being allowed some storage space was fair.​

 

[Everette Clairmont]

Telemaco Bento

Everette nodded, taking in Telemaco's concerns with a thoughtful expression. "Mr. Bento, I understand your hesitation regarding the scale of the deployment. Allocating storage space for Cravepoint inventory at each station is a fair request, and I believe we can accommodate that with relative ease. Ensuring smooth operation and easy resupply is in both our interests."

He adjusted the holographic projection and brought up blue prints for the station design, and then moved to mark areas that could potentially be allocated for storage. "We can designate a dedicated area at each port for Cravepoint inventory, allowing for more efficient stocking and minimizing downtime. This will keep operations running seamlessly and make it easier for your team to manage inventory."

Everette smiled slightly. "I appreciate your willingness to consider the larger scope, and I'm confident this adjustment will make the arrangement more effective for both sides. If there are any other provisions you feel might be necessary, I'm more than willing to discuss them."

 

[Telemaco Bento]

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Location: Coruscant, Starcraft Shipyards HQ
Tag: Everette Clairmont

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Listening to Everette's response the ‘zeltron’ watched as they presented some schematics for him to view of the station. A three dimensional model of Lucky 7’s witness through the photoreceptors of the droid who stood in Telemaco’s place here. The knowledge that this will be spread out over 10 locations helps to possibly reduce risk as well in if one station might underperform compared to others. He isn’t putting all his eggs in one basket by packing 750 machines into one station.

“Precisely, you seem to echo my thoughts pretty well Mr Clairmont. My business has grown to the point where I have no option other than to think of the bigger picture. A bit ironic considering the nature of Cravepoint itself. Thankfully I have reliable aid in the form of those under my employment and decent representatives such as yourself.” Telemaco explained, sharing a positive opinion of Everette and the organization that they represent.

“There isn’t much more I feel the need to discuss now. I think we’ve just about accomplished what we set out to do here today. I’d say that all we gotta do now is sign off on it.” This is part of what he liked about the business he was in. It was rather simple and straightforward in its scalability. Easy to grow and even degrow whenever needed.​

 

[Everette Clairmont]

Telemaco Bento
Everette smiled offering the hologram of M.r Bento an affirmative nod.

"I believe we've reached an agreement then!" he began, "I'll draw up the final contract of our agreement, including everything we've discussed." He moved to make a few notes, already preparing the documentation.

Everette paused, "Though I must present you with a peculiar request from the owner. He would like to proposition your company for a specialized vending machine that could distribute small collectible toys in blind capsules." He smiled slightly, trying to gauge Telemaco's reaction. "I have some initial packaging designs and a few prototype interfaces and exterior aesthetics that were requested. The owner is quite keen on making these machines distinct—something that will draw in both young and adult collectors alike." The designs were positively covered in cutesy animal art.

Everette adjusted his glasses, "I'll make sure the drafted agreement reflects all these specifics. Once I have it prepared, I'll send it over for your review. If all looks satisfactory, we can proceed with the signing."

He then moved to fetch a large gift box, its surface shimmering silver under the room's light, topped with a neatly tied blue satin bow. He offered it to the protocol droid with a warm gesture. "And lastly, Mr. Bento, I was also instructed to present this to you as a token of our appreciation for these wonderful business opportunities and your willingness to work with us."

Inside the gift box lay an Eggamle Plush, soft and intricately crafted.

 

[Telemaco Bento]

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Location: Coruscant, Starcraft Shipyards HQ
Tag: Everette Clairmont

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Telemaco was a bit surprised by there being a new proposition after they’d already finished discussing business. Causing him to dial up his skepticism, wondering if Everette was gonna attempt to request some last minute changes to the deal in hopes of squeezing out more of an advantage for themselves.

However, that wasn’t quite what was revealed to him. Instead they were asking to possibly commission a specialized gotcha machine from him. “Huh? Well Cravepoint isn’t really in the business of actually manufacturing machines. Though we do work with manufacturers on occasion to craft custom machines for certain products before.” Telemaco explained briefly before continuing. “Because of that I’ll likely request a higher upfront cost after things get looked over. Since I would be commissioning the machines and your behalf if you’re requesting specific designs for your products.”

He was also a bit surprised when the protocol droid was handed what looked to be a wrapped present. A strong gesture to the ‘zeltron’. Making him wonder if the owner of Starcraft Shipyards was one of those more eccentric business owners. Wondering what kind of process led someone to produce both starships and toys. That felt like it would be a rather dramatic departure. “Uh, well please give your employer my warmest regards…” Telemaco said, a bit of confusion clearly evident in his tone. Maybe it was just a cultural thing?​

 

[Everette Clairmont]

Telemaco Bento

Everette could sense the skepticism in Telemaco's tone, but they met it with a warm smile. After all, they weren't here to haggle — not about this, at least.

"I completely understand, Mr. Telemaco," Everette began, waving a hand dismissively as if to push away any notion of complication. "In fact, we're willing to handle the startup costs for production and prototyping entirely on our end. Consider it our investment in this collaboration."

Everette leaned in slightly, the corner of their lips lifting in a knowing grin.

"That's why we'd love to see Cravepoint manage the toy machines themselves. You have a reputation for knowing how to draw people in, keep them engaged, and that's exactly what we're looking for.

So, what do you say? ."

 

[Telemaco Bento]

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Location: Coruscant, Starcraft Shipyards HQ
Tag: Everette Clairmont

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“It wouldn’t be the most difficult thing in the galaxy, just something that incurs additional costs is all. I’ve used specialized machines before that employ the use of replicators. We can manage the development of such a machine. Unlike Starcraft Shipyards, it ain’t rocket science.” Telemaco commented and agreed to work with the other company on this additional project for them. If things didn’t pan out either they could just sell off the hardware afterwards as well.

“I can get some of my engineers to look into your demands and see how we can make it work.” After all, how complex could a gacha machine really be?​

 

[Everette Clairmont]

Telemaco Bento

Everette was rather impressed by this. "That might be a better solution for items that are not collectibles or limited editions. We have very strict quality control, so encapsulating the finished product is the way to go," he added.

"Great," the other responded. "I'll draw up a contract for this one as well and leave the service charge blank for you to fill in with the finite details when you're ready. It has been a most wonderful experience doing business with you."