Private Does It Come With A Popcorn Bucket?

[Makai Dashiell]

CORUSCANT

Financial District | The Ascent Restaurant | Braze
​

Makai adjusted his tie, waiting in the opulent reception area of the restaurant. Bustling with activity, the half-Galan was waiting silently, watching the crowds move about the space from his spot on a plus leather chair. Due to the location between the Financial and Business Districts, it was a sea of sentients who looked similar to himself ; clad in suits or formal wear, looking at various electronic devices, trying to get work crammed in between wheeling and dealing and impressing clients or an attempt to have a personal life. Judging by the amount of mistresses one always ran across at these things, that didn't seem to be a problem.

He was here today to try to impress a new potential business partner. One who hadn't quite reached adulthood ; not that it mattered to Makai.

Danger Arceneau had informed him of the young man, relaying a tale of how she was reminded a bit of himself. Apparently the Trade Queen had her own deal with the kid, and he had kept an eye on their offerings closely every since. Starcraft Shipyards had finally put out a new mining and salvage vessel and he knew he had to have it not only for his own business but potentially for his fathers.

Makai was unfamiliar with the production capacity this company had. He could be patient, he was slowly getting back to focusing on his own business and building up a supply of mining holdings. Depending on how many he could acquire over the long term, he figured he could easily triple production in under three years. That was ambitious and getting ahead of himself at the moment.

First he had to meet the guy.

 

[Braze]

TAGS: Makai Dashiell

Braze arrived at The Ascent Restaurant dressed in satiny white and black robed attire, punctual and poised for what he had decided would be a delightful outing. As he was courteously guided to his destination within the sophisticated venue, his demeanor was one of relaxed confidence. Upon arriving at the right place, he greeted his host for the evening with a smile. A singularly ornate weapon hilt, both practical and decorative, was prominently displayed on his leather belt, signifying his readiness for any situation. With a respectful bow, bringing one fist to the palm of his other hand, he gracefully addressed his host. "Thank you ever so much for inviting me here. This venue is absolutely lovely," he expressed softly, his voice imbued with sincere appreciation.

As Braze absorbed the ambiance of The Ascent Restaurant, he couldn't help but admire the elegant architecture and the meticulous attention to detail. The grand chandeliers cast a soft, inviting light across the polished marble floors, while the murmur of lively conversations filled the air, echoing off art-adorned walls.

Turning his attention back to Makai, Braze continued with a courteous tone, "I'm genuinely interested in learning more about your recent ventures and how we might creatively collaborate to our mutual benefit."

 

[Makai Dashiell]

CORUSCANT

Financial District | The Ascent Restaurant | Braze
​

Not having to wait long, Makai only knew the young man due to Danger's description of him. White haired, green eyes, and Jedi was the descriptors he was looking for, and in this type of environment it would be easy for a teenager of such description to stand out in such a place. Most of the crowd was older, although Makai could see several sentients roughly his age, most likely assistants or junior partners or the like.

Spotting the boy, Makai rose, buttoning his suit jacket and preparing to greet him. There was a slight bow and Makai merely nodded his head, offering his hand to shake in greeting in return. The half-Galan wasn't quite sure if he should have bowed back or if it was disrespectful to the Jedi or culture to do so, so a handshake was something he could always do to play it safe.

"No, thank you for meeting me. I figured this would be a much more interesting spot to talk shop than say a hotel lobby or the Jedi Temple. Its truly an amazing place architecturally, let alone the masterclass chefs employed here."

Makai motioned for the pair to get moving towards the dining area, their table already reserved, a Twi'lek host leading them through the busy space. He took the opportunity to still speak, walking side-by-side.

"I look forward to learning more about you as well. Things on my end have been extremely busy, but aren't we all. How are you? I've been informed the capital is being moved to Fondor? Are my sources correct? I tend not to keep up with politics but news such of this even reaches my ears."

 

[Braze]

TAGS: Makai Dashiell

Despite the opulence, his focus remained sharp, tuned to the matters at hand. He returned the gesture by taking his hand in his and offered a gentle grip as he shook.​

"I've been diligently preparing for the war front with my master, Jasper Kai'el . It's certainly hectic," he shared in a lowered tone, mindful of the plush surroundings and the private nature of their conversation. The clinking of fine dinnerware and the murmur of other distinguished guests provided a discreet backdrop to their discussion.

"It seems prudent that the Senate has vacated. It would be unwise to keep our government heads in what's about to become a war zone," Braze continued, his eyes scanning the room subtly to ensure their conversation remained confidential. He didn't intend on confirming nor denying what the senate was up to or where they were. It wasn't really his place or expertise any how.

"I doubt talks of war make for polite table talk, do they?" he chuckled softly, attempting to lighten the mood. His smile was polite, yet it carried a hint of the tension that underlay the evening's pleasantries.

"How can I help you?" Braze inquired, leaning in slightly, his voice a soft, inviting whisper amidst the soft classical music playing in the background. "I understand from a mutual acquaintance that I might be able to assist you with some projects?"

 

[Makai Dashiell]

Makai nodded as they walked along, unsure of such a young boy headed into a war zone. From what he could understand, this was a Jedi way, they did this from a young age. Did he agree? Absolutely not. However, they were not here to debate politics or have a massive debate over cultural processes.

"I wish you the best of luck."

Seated now, Braze got to the heart of the issue. Danger had reached out on his behalf to help facilitate the meeting, so it only made sense for the teenager to know he was working on several projects.

"Yes, I have several plates spinning at the moment. However , what I am most interested in your recent....or perhaps not so recent...work in mining vessels. I'm always looking for something different and efficient. Considering our work in Centrality, it's been a challenge."

 

[Braze]

TAGS: Makai Dashiell

Braze padded along eagerly, his curiosity piqued by the direction they were headed. Upon reaching their destination, he happily settled into a seat.

"Thank you, I appreciate that," Braze chirped gratefully, his attention fully engaged as the other person expressed interest. "Ah, yes. Miss Danger Arceneau inquired if I could integrate some mining utility into my Fugu Frigate 'Puffin Tuff' Freighters, and I assured her that it was indeed possible. However, I pondered if something else might be more suitable for such large-scale projects, leading me to contemplate a new ship design altogether."

Reaching into the sleeve of his jacket, Braze delicately pulled out an artistically folded paper oragami crab, offering it to Makai with a smile. "I settled on a crab; this is my prototype. " he stated proudly. "I prefer drawing inspiration from nature. After all, many animals have specialized talents honed over countless years, so why not borrow from them?" he mused.

"Crabs are excellent swimmers and diggers. The entire ship can utilize its crab-like legs for digging into crust sections, while the other legs provide stability," Braze explained. He then retrieved a small memory stick from his sleeve and extended it towards Makai.

"This contains detailed specifications and inventory for each vessel, along with visual renderings of every room and available utility," he added, "I was happy to hear what you intend on working on. Perhaps you might like to tell me yourself a little more about your goals and efforts?"

 

[Makai Dashiell]

"Crabs are also delicious with butter."

A lame joke, but one he decided he wanted to make regardless. Hand carefully picked up the small little origami crab, admiring the craftmanship by merely folding paper into shapes. It was easy to see Braze was inspired by the creature, much like the gemstone mining droid he was personally working on that was also based on crabs. Versatile little creatures.

The memory stick was in front of him but he made no move to open it yet, instead setting down the paper crab carefully. Specifications, modifications, design, they would get there soon, Makai wasn't worried on that front. Part of the deal was also speaking to the other ; an art he had learned from Danger herself. He was not as talented as her, lacking the charisma that the Trade Queen could use with ease. Makai doubted he would ever get there ; it just wasn't his forte.

"Ambitious goals, is what I have. Hoping to triple output in three years. This means aggressive investments now in order to expand equally as aggressive. I've come to you because I'm wanting to expand my variety of mining equipment, I'm very aware that droid labor is going to be important in the next year, but we have enough sentient workers now. So I'm flexible in my wants and needs at this portion of expansion."

Waitress came around and he ordered a Corellian whisky to start, wondering if it was alright considering his potential business partner was technically a child. Wasn't as if the teenager was drinking too, so he decided it was fine, an expected while discussing business.

"I'm sorry, I jumped straight into business and politics. How are thing on your end? How is business faring? My father salvages and war is keeping us stretched thin. I can only imagine what it must be on your end."

 

[Braze]

TAGS: Makai Dashiell

"Ya know, I had the same thought. And you know what else is delicious with butter? Popcorn." Braze nodded as if this was the most sagely thing he'd ever said. He ordered a fruity drink with bubbles, akin to a non-alcoholic cocktail.

"War, politics, and religion are never very good topics for the dinner table. Worse topics if you want to make friends; But I am both excited and uneased by it all. I'm happy my Master is going to let me help. " Braze offered simply.

"I made sure to add lots of popcorn machines throughout every room on the mining vessel, with various flavors. Popcorn is a fun snack and smells nice. I figure it's a welcome scent compared to sweat, dirt, and crude oil associated with mining and terraforming....

Sounds like you have your future all planned out. Business is fine for me too—mostly set up to run itself. I'm just working on passion projects that feel useful to other causes. I'm very grateful to have the opportunity to pursue my whimsical flights of fancy on projects. It's fun that way. My lawyer seems to think I'm a little too liberal though. "

 

[Makai Dashiell]

"Popcorn machines. On the vessel? I can't say the miners are used to such a thing but considering the work is dangerous, its often away from their families. Might be an excellent morale booster, very thoughtful Braze ."

Corellian whisky arrived and he took a sip, navigating around the fact the teenager would soon be fighting a war. There wasn't a need to dwell on such a fact at this point ; Makai wasn't a political person. What happened in the 'verse, especially between the Jedi and Sith, was of little concern to him. He merely kept up with the news to ensure none of his business operations would be harmed. Having employees in the line of war wasn't something he wanted, if he could move them, they got reassigned until it was safe once more.

"It's great to have a passion project. Mining is mine, so I can understand your excitement. Does your lawyer run the day to day business? Or does it just kind of drift along since this is a passion for you?"

Makai paused then chuckled.

"I'm sorry, I don't mean to pry. It doesn't affect my thoughts on your work, I am merely curious. You're young. At your age I was just merely working for my father, maybe commanding a salvage crew each summer. Beyond that if I had to be in charge? Would have imploded. To be fair though, you seem much,much smarter than I was at your age. Hell, you're probably smarter than me now."

 

[Braze]

TAGS: Makai Dashiell

"Oh no... I have various managers and profile adjusters who keep things running," Braze offered simply. "My lawyer helps me make decisions by offering advice and taking care of paperwork. So, you like fancy gems?" he asked curiously.

"I don't think of myself as a very good boss, if I even am one. I have a team, and I give them ideas to put together," Braze continued. "I am young, yes. But I wouldn't say it's good to compare ourselves to others. It's not conducive to a healthy mindset," he added, speaking from experience.

"My hobbies mainly revolve around martial arts; It's how I keep in touch with my sense of heritage and identity. But fine dinning is looking like a fun hobby too. "

 

[Makai Dashiell]

"Gems are fine, I've been working on a way to harvest seafah jewels lately. In their raw form they look like fish dung, makes trying to find what you're looking for real interesting. Recently did some testing with software and prototype crab droids because sentients are horrible at telling he difference. I've got some ideas on that front. The type of mining I love is massive holes in the earth, pulling up raw materials and watching them get refined into usable product. Its...awe inspiring. To me, anyways."

Another sip of whisky and he gave a short laugh at the mention of not comparing one's self to others.

"You sound like my therapist, and not in a bad way."

Iced blue gaze browsed the menu for a moment, debating on what he was going to be indulging in. The half-Galan had been leaning towards old fashioned nerf but all this talk of crab was making him look and see if there were any options in that category that caught his eye.

"A good boss knows when to step back and give problems to the team. I'd argue then you're doing just fine on that front. Only the most arrogant and short-sighted think they have all the answers. Most times they never do."

Another pause, another sip of his drink.

"Are you seeking to master one form of combat or do you keep it interesting by learning multiple forms? You want to become a master of one? Or is it more...sampling and enjoying the long journey?"

 

[Braze]

TAGS: Makai Dashiell

"I'd like to learn from various sources and combine what works best for me," Braze said simply. "I used to have a small crystal I would talk to that would tell me all kinds of stuff like that... I suppose that was my therapist. "

"I've heard about Seafah jewels. I've been researching different gems and jewels for some of my projects. I like sparklies and enjoy embedding them in my weapon designs. Some of them have uses beyond just aesthetic appeal." Braze ordered a pasta dish with poultry and citrus, and for dessert, he chose a rich chocolate cake. He asked for two slices, one to be packed away for later to bring to Loomi . " I've been thinking about trying to find a nice Rainbow Gem or two for something special. " Braze seemed to be a simple creature with simple pleasures and interests .

 

[Makai Dashiell]

"Gemstones can definitely be more than just something to catch the eye. Realistically speaking, there's only so much disposable wealth in the 'verse. Lots of applications for things like drill bits and cutting tools. I always find it hilarious there are cutting wheels for mining equipment using the same gemstones one is trying to extract."

Makai placed his order for a nerf steak and some cruciferous vegetables, deciding to ditch the crab for right now. Too much crab talk and it would seem odd to just decide to eat the little creatures now.

"Rainbow gems? Very pricey. Very beautiful. I don't have any in my possession, however....Hmn, maybe the time to acquire the rights to mine some. I've been busy straddling two companies, my fathers and my own, so my time dedicated to my own company has been limited. However, the tides are changing so I'm looking forward to expansion. Hence, why we are here."

There was a small pause, a swirling of the liquid in his lowball glass.

"Given the state of the galaxy, can you produce the items at a good clip? Again, you've heard my aggressive plans. I'd like to purchase say....at least fifteen of your craft crab vessels, with a potential to purchase up to seventy-five over the next three years. Of course, that is dependent on the local environment, how the vessel will work for us...how fast I can acquire mines, you know, the little things that matter."


Braze

 

[Braze]

TAGS: Makai Dashiell

Braze happily sipped his drink and listened to Makai talk. "Funny... I've been given my father's company. It's what I use to help me with the shipbuilding company. It's been saving a pretty credit for some time, and it helped jumpstart things."

He paused, thinking over what else Makai said. "Well, I've been fortunate to make a few nice acquaintances and received funding from both Miss Danger Arceneau and another client who wants a small fleet put together. We ensured a new shipyard was established to fulfill this kind of order. Being in a resource-rich area with no war worries is great. It's going well so far, so it should be doable."

Braze leaned forward, enthusiastic about the logistics side. "We've set up a robust logistics network, sourcing materials locally to minimize delays. Partnering with key suppliers ensures a steady flow of resources, and our new shipyard has advanced manufacturing technologies to streamline production. We've invested in training programs for local workers and brought in experienced engineers and managers to oversee operations. Everything is running smoothly, and we're on track to meet our goals; Maybe even ahead of scheduled..."

He then added with a smile, "I've started a third company, but it's a lot less about big manufacturing and more about sharing tech advancements with other interested hobbyists who may dabble in industry. It's more of a private club, I guess, than a company, but we might sell some inventions later on."

 

[Makai Dashiell]

"Sounds like you have things figured out then. Doing business together won't be an issue then. Not that supply chain problems would have prevented us from doing so, I just prefer to know upfront. What projects need to be shuffled and move around in order to accommodate the building schedule of manufacturers."

He watched the excitement, the leaning forward of the teenage boy as he spoke of his businesses and what he had built so far. A true passion for business, perhaps the Jedi had made a mistake with this one. Given a little time and an attitude such as the one Braze had would have him easily surpass Danger Arceneau in terms of success.

"Do you find time to sleep or have you decided to skip that portion of your life?"

A smile at his own horrible joke.

"Let's make the contract for fifteen of the crafty crab vessels to be delivered as soon as possible. Then twenty more for the next three quarters of business to total seventy-five within the year. Additionally, I'll toss in some seafah jewels as a token of potential continued partnership. Beautiful gray-toned jewels, I turned one into an engagement ring. I think you'll be pleased with them in your projects."

A small pause and sip of his drink.

"If this arrangement is acceptable to you, of course. I'm open to negotiation."

 

[Braze]

TAGS: Makai Dashiell

​

Braze sipped his drink happily, but suddenly his face twisted into a grimace, his brows furrowing. "No, thank you... you can keep the fish poop gems... Not really my thing," Braze trailed off, shaking his head slightly. Hopefully Makai wouldn't be known as the guy who harvests fish poop gems.

He brightened up almost immediately, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "How about you just help me build a tree house? Not like hire some one to help me or pay for the materials; Like just you and me, it would be nice to put something together somewhere. Do that, and I'll gift you the first Crabby for free," Braze chirped happily, his tone light and playful.

"If we're going to be partners as you put it, then I request that you also attend one major event with me each year," he added. " How's that sound?"

 

[Makai Dashiell]

"Once the gems are cut and polished, they are gorgeous. Your loss."

Makai already knew selling the gems in the raw was impossible, just because of their appearance. Cut, polished, and in a setting they looked perfectly fine. Why else would he have used it in an engagement ring if it had looked horrible? Either way, it didn't matter to the half-Galan, he just wanted to offer them up since Braze mentioned using gemstones in technology and the like.

"You are in luck, my father taught me some carpentry and woodworking when I was younger. I've built bookshelves, a sailboat...a few other things. Never a treehouse, but I'm confident. You pick the planet and let me know when you're ready. I look forward to getting some work done."

An odd request, but Makai was happy to use some powertools and spent a weekend or two building. It would give him a chance to brush off his dusty skills and put them back to use, plus it was an activity right up his alley.

"Major event? Like, a business expo or charity auction? I think I can make that happen. You play grav-golf? Normally these things are near a course, we can make a real guys weekend out of it."

 

[Braze]

TAGS: Makai Dashiell

​

Braze's brightened up at the prospect of building something in the lush surroundings of Veridia. "Great then, we'll make a 'little' tree house together. We could perhaps do this near the Westeria trees," he suggested, envisioning the structure amidst the towering, floral-scented trees renowned for their sturdy branches and vibrant foliage. His mood lifted further when he finally received his meal, diving into it with gusto. He ate with a fervor that matched his energetic personality.

As the conversation shifted towards recreational activities, Braze tilted his head, puzzled by the mention of 'Grav-golf.' "Grav-golf? I don't know what that is... but I wouldn't mind trying it. It sounds like some kind of sport?" he inquired. His own preferences leaned towards more traditional physical disciplines. "I suppose my 'sport' of choice is martial arts and fencing," he explained, reflecting on the many hours spent honing his skills in these arts, which not only kept him physically fit but also mentally sharp.

 

[Makai Dashiell]

"Whatever tree you pick will be fine. I'll be there to provide muscle."

Makai thoughtfully chewed his steak as he tried to think about how to describe the game of grav-golf. Especially to someone who didn't have the slightest idea of what it was. Which, frankly, made it a little easier to sell the game. Most thought it was stuffy and boring, but actually playing the game itself was fun and challenging.

"So, you try to get this small ball into a hole in as little hits as possible with your clubs. You're outside on a course than has various levels of challenges. Whoever hits their ball the least wins ; so its a strategy to hit it right given the weather conditions outside. I can show you, its not too difficult to pick up, the difficulty comes in a winning strategy."

Yet iced-blue eyes perked up at the thought of fencing. He had boxed Casteel Mer'taal and barely won, but that was on sheer luck that day. He had only gotten into a few scraps in his lifetime. Fencing seemed more for gentlemen, which surprised him that Castie didn't compete in the sport. Something to ask the blonde about.

"Fencing? Could you teach me? Not anytime soon, I don't need to mess up my face...but...in the next few months maybe you can give me a lesson."

Braze

 

[Braze]

TAGS: Makai Dashiell

​

Braze perked up, hearing this. "Heck yeah. Alright, awesome! I'll hold you to it, then," he nodded.

"That sounds pretty fun, actually," he stated simply. "I imagine it's kinda like learning subtle control and studying the weather just a bit. I think I'd like to try that. How big of a club do you need? Are the clubs spiked or...?" He was uncertain about what kind of sport needed essentially a weapon to be played, but he liked the idea of it!

"I love fencing. I was trying to teach my friend Iko Vel a little more about it. I would absolutely love to teach you if you'd be willing to play with me. I kinda view it as a skilled game of really fast-paced tag. And it's okay, we can get you head protection if you don't want to accidentally hurt your pretty face." Braze's excitement seemed genuine, and he seemed more interested in the prospect of having made a new friend he could spend time with, even if they were a little older. But that didn't bother Braze; most of his friends were older, and lately, it felt like he was being left behind now that all the older Padawans had been knighted and moved on.

He happily continued his meal, savoring each bite as thoughts of new adventures filled his mind. The idea of exploring new activities with his new friend brought a sense of anticipation. It was a welcome distraction from the loneliness he had felt since his older friends had moved on.