First Order Economic & Commerce Summit [Invite]

[Natasi Fortan]

The Whitetower Arms Hotel​

Cloud City, Bespin​

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Schedule​

DAY ZERO​

1600 - 1800: Check-in [Front Desk]​

2030 - 2230: Cocktail Reception [Lobby]​

Smart Dress, please​

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DAY ONE​

0700 - 0900: Breakfast [Café des Nuages]​

0915 - 0930: Welcome Meeting [Grand Salon]​

Natasi Fortan, Moff of the Home Counties​

1000 - 1200: Breakout Session A [Wingbird Salon]​

"Industrial Safety & Health Administration Compliance"​

Mallory Portmortshan, Director ISHA​

1000 - 1200: Breakout Session B [Tibanna Salon]​

"Zoning, Permits & You: A Comprehensive Look"​

Rasmarlo Hayes, Commissioner (Dosuun)​

1200 - 1330: Luncheon [Café des Nuages]​

1400 - 1600: One-on-One Meetings​

First Order military & government officials, TBD​

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2000 - 2200: Musical Concert​

Marzena Choi​

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DAY TWO​

0700 - 0900: Breakfast [Café des Nuages]​

0930 - 1130: General Session I [Grand Salon]​

"The Benefits of Operating in First Order Space"​

Natasi Fortan, Moff of the Home Territories​

1200 - 1330: Luncheon [Café des Nuages]​

1400 - 1600: General Session II [Grand Salon]​

"Town Hall - Q&A Session"​

First Order military & government officials, TBD​

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2000 - 2400: Gala Dinner​

Black Tie, please​

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It had been a long day for the staff at the Whitetower Hotel. A team of First Order officials, led by Moff Fortan, had swept through the building, checking the details of the events being set-up. But now, the kickoff cocktail reception was well underway, and it was -- at least in theory -- time to relax. But that wasn't really Natasi Fortan's style.

Standing on the balcony that overlooked the hotel lobby, Natasi Fortan knew that she had been right about her choice. Cloud City was not her chosen destination for this conference, but she had been overruled by the planning committee. The Whitetower was posh and flashy -- unlike the Dosuun Plaza Grand, Natasi's favored choice, which was classical and luxurious, staid and elegant. This, Natasi thought as she looked over the lobby, was nice enough, but she felt rather out of place here. She was not flash, by any stretch of the imagination, even on her best days, and she hadn't had one of those for several months. But Bespin was the First Order's premiere business destination; it would be developed into a bustling hub of commerce and industry, so here they were.

The lights were too bright. The music was too... she couldn't put her finger on it. She tapped her fingers on the balustrade and sighed. At least the staff were good; they were checking people in efficiently, and a steady stream of people were wandering around the lobby, admiring -- or at least, looking at -- the artwork and decor, or taking drinks and hors d'oeuvres off the trays of passing waiters. The hotel had been rented by the First Order for its exclusive use. Invitations had been sent to relevant guests from in and around First Order space: influential industrialists, commercial movers and shakers, business people, investors, etc. They were invited here to be wooed by the First Order into doing more business (or in some cases, any business at all) within their boundaries.

"Lady Natasi," the events coordinator said, approaching from behind. She turned to see the young woman clad in a clinging purple dress. Good Balance, Natasi closed her eyes. Even the help are too trendy to believe. "Is everything as you would wish it?" The events coordinator came to the balustrade with Natasi and the women looked over the scene below.

"No," Natasi said, then paused. "That is -- yes, everything is... just fine. Thank you. I suppose I ought to go and..." She flexed her left hand and rubbed it with her right. "...mingle. I'll find you if I need you. Oh... would you be so kind as to send a bottle of gin to my room? On my personal tab. Thank you." Natasi and the events coordinator went separate ways, with Natasi strolling down the left-hand stairway, and the events coordinator going down the right. "Nice to see you," Natasi told a venture capitalist. "Glad you could make it," she said to a shipping magnate. "Do you need more champagne?" she asked a shipwright. "Let me..."

[Cocktail Reception - Other RPable events to be posted later and separately]​

 

[Valessia Brentioch]

Valessia stood in her suite, which to be fair wasn't all that far from the summit itself. Still, to even see that she had been invited to a function being presented by the First Order? Well. She just had to show up, and she pondered for a moment if that little Commissioner had anything to do with it. The moment slipped and she crossed her bedroom, heading to her closet. "Edra!" She shouted, "my dear, Edra. Where are my shoes?" She asks as she steps into the closet, it stretched far beyond most could imagine, at least a thousand square feet. Valessia was sitting at her vanity applying her cosmetics. Leaning forward she flipped her hair a bit and took a brush doing some minute touches.

Rising from the vanity she turned to see Edra had brought her shoes. "Thank you, dear."

"Yeah, yeah hold still a moment while I get these on for you." Edra quipped as Valessia put her hand on her shoulder for balance. The zabrak fixed one shoe on and then moved to the other. "Sure you don't want me to come with you?"

"Edra, it's a summit - you'll be bored to tears and I won't have the luxury of being able to slip away to entertain you." She says in a careful tone and then walks toward the built in mirror that is taller than she is. "This looks fine, right?"

Edra rolled her eyes, "for like the thousandth time, Val, you're fine."

"Hey boss lady the guard- wow." Cin popped a little snack into her mouth, some sort of nut - probably one of the things that Val was trying to get Edra to stop eating. She chewed on along like normal and spoke. "Wow, you look amazing." She had come in from the main room wondering what was taking them so long, and as usual, it was because Val didn't think she'd look good, which was just preposterous

"Thank you Cin, and please do not talk while you're eating." Valessia didn't even try to hide her disgust, "and what guards?"

Finishing her snack, Cin answered. "Guards, ol' lady here thought we should send some guards with you."

Val looked at Edra. "I will be fine."

"Take two of them with you." Edra urged, "please? For my peace of mind, if you even care."

Val's mouth dropped, she was insulted. "I do care, Edra!"

Cin just looked between the two, "okay moms when you two are done arguin' I'll be out in the foyer waiting to escort the Queen of Naboo here." That comment alone earned Cin a lethal set of looks from both Edra and Valessia. The pilot just gave them both a wide-eyed shrug, as if to question them or maybe challenge them as she left.

Taking one last breath, Valessia huffed as she looked herself over in the mirror. She caved. "Okay, fine two guards. Are they Chiss boys?"

"As if I'd give you anything else, and before you ask yes they're wearing the old garb that you love so much." Edra just sighs with content. "Would I have given you anything else?"

"You sent two Yinchorri force users with me last time." Val countered. "To an opera."

"Don't forget the other four guys in the big suits!" Cin shouts from outside the door.

Edra was going to throw something, but she realized it was a shoe - and one doesn't just throw a shoe. Not in Valessia's suite, not from her closet and certainly not in front of her face. Valessia just pinches the bridge of her nose and looks at the chronometer. "And I'm going to be late, okay." She kissed Edra on the cheek. "Cin you stay here and make sure your mother behaves."

Cin gagged, and Valessia put waved them both goodbye. "And make sure Paddy has the wine ready for tonight, something tells me I'm going to need it." She says giving them both last minute instructions, and motions for the two Chiss guards to follow her.

---​

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Valessia had checked in early, the Whitetower Arms was certainly among the best on Bespin, anyway. It wasn't the lavish hotels from Brentaal IV or its neighbors, but it was class. And class was certainly something she could appreciate. Valessia made small talk with a number of other businessmen and women. Most inquired about her parents' company Luxem Velum of which she was a board member but was also their lead fabrication specialist. Shipwrights were little flies, always hovering around her wanting to know how her parents did things. She used to answer those questions a lot, and for the most part still did. Although now it seemed more of a nuisance when all she wanted to do was talk about San Guinem.

Unfortunately being a new company as it was, and being what they were. A textile company, there wasn't much interest unless she was able to segue into it. Those who represented armor companies resented her presentation of San Guinem's products and lines of the marital variety stepped on their toes. It didn't stop her from engaging with them, or with companies who handled materials that she sorely needed, or those who worked logistics in general.

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She moved into the lobby for the cocktail reception, she admired the decor and artwork. Taking time to actually look and study what had been presented. The staff had been diligent, efficient and she could admire that - what she couldn't admire was the fact that she couldn't shake her guards. No amount of persuasion in any variety available to her could get them to leave. Edra must have shielded them she figured and looks to them both. "Do not slouch, you are wearing an Imperial uniform." She'd tell them and look about the room. Surveying it as a hunter observes the herd of prey before them selecting which one to take down first. Valessia spotted a woman who appeared to be the hostess but didn't dare assume that she was officially related to the First Order. Instead, she took a glass of champagne from one of the roaming trays and headed for one of the shipwrights.

[member="Natasi Fortan"]

 

[Marzena Vaas]

Marzena Choi’s expensive high heels stepped through the doors of the Whitetower Arms Hotel, and long strides brought her into the lobby. Even though the celebrity lived in a high rise fairly close by, the Whitetower was nearly a second home. Marzena did adore the Whitetower; it was trendy and stylish, just as she was – she fit in effortlessly. The staff knew her well, and always went out of their way to ensure that she had the best experience possible, whether she was staying as a guest or there to entertain. Even tonight, with the bustle of the First Order’s Economic and Commerce Summit preparations, the Hotel Manager made his way out to greet her.

“Good evening, Miss Choi,” He called brightly, “May I take your coat?”

Spoiler

She returned his smile and nodded, letting her designer trench fall softly off her shoulders and into the man’s waiting hands. Tonight she had opted for a vibrant wrap dress, with her arms covered it almost felt too conservative for her taste, but the short length made up for that. And the high hemline did wonders to show off her legs. The singer's dark hair was worn down tonight, styled in effortless waves, but otherwise unadorned. As always, her makeup was perfectly polished, her eyes lined dramatically and her lips colored nicely with a subtle nude shade. Marzena whipped a small compact from her clutch and took one last look. When she was satisfied that every strand of hair was tousled just right, and that none of her eye makeup had strayed, she began to make her way into the crowd.

It wasn't long before she had a glass of champagne in hand, and she was ready to make the rounds. Her dark eyes instantly found the familiar face of [member="Valessia Brentioch"] in the crowd. Marzena flashed the textile designer a grin and raised her champagne glass in greeting. There was no doubt that they would catch up before the night was through. The two were set to collaborate on a line of evening gowns, and Marzena was quite excited.

"Oh, there you are." Came a male voice behind her, and she turned to see Jean Paul Renaud. The two placed kisses on each cheek. Jean Paul had recently relocated from Dargul to Bespin, bringing his fashion company JPR with him. He was still very much in the beginning phases of getting his business situated in Cloud City, and the summit was a perfect way for him to get acquainted with the First Order. Tonight he wore a dark suit, a pair of pearly white glasses with large frames, and his blonde hair was styled into a high bouffant. He did appear a bit eccentric, but that was just part of his appeal.

Her eyes fell upon an elegant woman coming down the stairs, her skin was like pale porcelain. She walked with an air of importance and quiet grace. Marzena's eyes continued to follow her form until she disappeared into the crowd of guests. And she had not even realized that Jean Paul had been talking to her the entire time.

"Hello, Marz?" Jean Paul interrupted her thoughts, "Were you even listening?"

"Sorry," She grinned apologetically and gave his arm a squeeze, "Let's go mingle."

[member="Natasi Fortan"]

 

[Dunames Lopez]

Dunames was never far behind when it came to big First Order events involving Marzena. Having just returned to a commercial trip on Bothawui, where she was to negotiate the rights to shipping such-and-such amount of hypermatter for Star Tours, she was happy to be on a planet for once. Her business almost led her to live the life of a spacer: she was never in one place for long. Oh that she longs for the day where she can actually settle down, be it on JanFathal (Ringo Vinda is too hot for her even though surface properties are cheap) on Bespin or on Lipsec. She saw, in the room, representatives of various shipyards such as Shobquix Yards, Mandalorian-controlled Botajef Shipyards and, of course, the infamous landing gear lady of Ringovinda StarYards. She knew Charzon to be reluctant to sell to dark-sided factions, fearing their products fall in military hands, but Jessica, having once worked for dark-sided Kuat Drive Yards, was more comfortable around dark-siders, despite neither of these women being Force-users. On Dulvoyinn she purchased a locally-produced dress that she wears outside the confines of a ship for the first time, rather than the usual Brint Mea or Galmia Pepe dresses. Man she realized how much fashion could change from one world to another: whereas jackboots would be fashionable on Dulvoyinn, it wouldn't be on Bespin.

Spoiler

The original designer of Dunames' dress wearing her own creation; on Dulvoyinn, any fashion designer creating lines of clothing slated for at least limited production will customarily wear their own creations in fashion shows. Dunames wears the elongated kama higher up the legs than its original designer, plus Dunames doesn't wear jackboots.

But the last time she was on Bespin, she had to deal with a battle-scarred stormtrooper that was utterly obsessed with Lanteeb and the promise Star Tours made to him on behalf of the First Order, going to great lengths to ensure that the First Order will keep their end of the deal, beyond paying for the deal. In the meantime, Lanteeb was secured for the First Order. Will Sgt. Mallidan be on duty tonight? Or was he assigned to patrol one of the lower levels of Cloud City? Anyhow, she was going to the bar asking for drinks. She could swear she saw [member="Marzena Choi"] and [member="Valessia Brentioch"], both of whom she met on Bespin for the first time.

"How are the Maersks treating you?" a representative from Hedeek Shipping asked her. "Between the AA-9, the Baleen-class, the ArcShel and the Maersk, what made you choose the Maersk?"

[member="Marzena Choi"] [member="Natasi Fortan"] [member="Valessia Brentioch"]

 

[Natasi Fortan]

Luckily for Natasi, Sioux Chambers had taken up a position on the balcony, where Natasi could see her from almost anywhere in the crowd. The assistant had instructions to give a high-sign when a guest that met the description of one of the individuals on her 'must-have' list. These individuals, because of the nature of their business or personal qualities, made them highly desirable to her scheme, and would receive the personal touch of the Moff herself in hopes that it would convince them to see things her way. [member="Valessia Brentioch"] was one such name on Natasi's 'must-have' list, and she saw Sioux's sign and followed her gaze to Ms. Brentioch, who had begun to engage with some lower-tier shipwright or another. Natasi raised her brow at Sioux and then began weaving through the crowd.

"Excuse me," Natasi said as she turned the pair into a trio. "So sorry to push in but I wanted to see you have everything you need. Natasi Fortan, so pleased you could make it," she introduced herself to the shipwright, and then extended a hand to Valessia. "It's Ms. Brentioch, isn't it? I've heard so much about you. Can I get you two anything? From the bar, or an hors d'ouvres?" She half-turned, gesturing vaguely, before spotting the striking figure of [member="Marzena Choi"] in a shocking shade of purple, almost floating across the floor. Her jaw dropped a fraction of an inch and her dark eyes widened a little before she tore her eyes away from her and looked back to the pair of business-beings she was talking to.

Natasi swallowed audibly and forced her smile back in place. "Anything at all?" A signal from Sioux caught her attention and she glanced briefly to the indicated being: [member="Dunames Lopez"], another person of interest. She filed a note to speak to her next.

 

[Claire Organa]

Travel. Conventions. Designers. Models. Business associates.

The night was quiet Claire needed some peace this would help. She held up the itinerary one more time as she read what would happen over the next couple of days but tonight was the cocktail party. She had just the dress to that black number with all the sequins black fitted stocking cute little boots, and sweep her hair up. Yes that image. She smiled went inside and made ready.

An hour later she was headed into the gathering, she hoped for a familiar face.

 

[Marzena Vaas]

“Is that [member="Claire Organa"]?” Jean Paul nudged Marzena.

She followed Jean Paul’s gaze to find her friend walking into the reception, clad in a sparkling black dress. Marzena took a dainty sip of champagne and then smiled. The last couple of times she had gone to visit the clothing designer on Alderaan, she had been easing Claire into the idea of visiting First Order space. Claire had seemed hesitant; perhaps a bit intimidated by the Order’s reputation, but this was a good chance to change her perception. They could show her that life in Cloud City was marvelous.

“Yes, it’s Claire,” Marzena was already in motion, “C’mon, we should go say hello.”

“Is Ms. Organa thinking opening a shop here?” Jean Paul asked on their way over.

“Not that I’m aware of, but I’m hoping she’ll be open to that possibility. I think Contessa would do well here on Bespin, don’t you? There’s a market for high end design, her business could fit in easily. And it would be nice to have a Contessa store so close to home.”

“Oh, I see. So your motives are purely self-indulgent.” He chided her.

Marzena laughed softly and held up her thumb and forefinger to indicate ‘a little bit’. She knew that Claire wasn't all that interested in visiting Cloud City to shop, but perhaps this trip would still result in her friend coming to visit more. It would also be a good idea to introduce her to Ms. Brentioch of San Guinem Textum as well, for Marzena had seen her work first hand, and had been impressed by the quality of her fabrics. She waved over at Claire to get her attention, and then moved in for a quick hug.

“I’m so glad you could make it!” Marzena smiled brightly as she pulled away. “Do you remember Jean Paul? We attended his party on Spira.”

 

[Dunames Lopez]

"The Maersk is designed for, yes, landing on planets like the AA-9 and the ArcShel are, and the Baleen is good only for containerized cargo that doesn't need to land on planets. The AA-9 is unarmed and have light shields, and the Maersk provides 50% more tonnage and cargo space than the ArcShel, and even better: the ability to convert to passenger use, in whole or in part, and with otherwise similar operating costs"

"Highly impressive"

"Maersk Star Freight is replacing both its fleet of Baleens and TL-6000s, and not just because they show their age, and Star Tours, like its primary supplier of ships, lives and dies with the landing gear"

"Probably refitting our current fleet with landing gears would be possible, when there isn't any"

"Probably Star Tours could be the exclusive distributor of Ringovinda Systems products in First Order space, since Ringovinda Systems seems a little reluctant to sell directly to First Order customers"

"What's the difference between Ringovinda Systems and Ringovinda StarYards?"

At this moment, Jessica, known on Ringo Vinda as the Landing Gear Lady, appears in front of the duo, dressed with much lighter colors than the other two. To Jessica, Dunames looks almost as if a Dathomirian witch bought, or stole, from a Mandalorian fashion boutique, while Dulvoyinn was, for a long time, a One Sith possession and is currently the staging point for a Galactic Alliance all-out assault on Coruscant. She was busy talking to companies like Bespin Direct, but Bespin Direct itself was mostly flying light freighters for commuter service, with about 20 destinations outside FO space, and its hub in FO space. Hedeek Shipping is the largest First Order shipping company but she knew not whether they would be able to get them landing gears, let alone bombs or rotating flails.

"Ringovinda Systems makes starship components, like landing gears, bombs, rotating flails, and even an automated kitchen unit, while Ringovinda StarYards build ships capable of landing, mostly cargo ships"

"It would behoove us to request to get the demilitarized zone, as rumored to be introduced in this summit, to include all factions, but this is a risky proposition since Maersk Star Freight, the biggest customer of the Ringo Vinda group at this point, is a Republican company and I'm afraid I'm not the best person to juggle those risks. I could talk about landing gears and how they would benefit a ship owner or operator but political risk management is not my cup of tea" Jessica told Dunames and the Hedeek Shipping representatives.

"Oh, Jessica, I assume that the lure of a demilitarized zone brought you here: normally you would be busy going to meet with clients or to refine landing gears being produced on Ringo Vinda. I must assume that Charzon couldn't come in person and instead sent you because you were the product chief of a key product that could interest bulk shipping companies as well as the military"

"But the Republican delegation is made up mostly of business people, very few diplomats in there, and at most one senator. Katagiri Ike was busy and instead delegated the task to a Senate committee whose head is the head of the delegation"

[member="Marzena Choi"] [member="Valessia Brentioch"] [member="Claire Organa"] [member="Natasi Fortan"]

 

[Valessia Brentioch]

Valessia had been speaking with someone, not that the conversation had been all that riveting. Nevertheless, if she could bring this man into the fold it would allow her more breathing room. Breathing room to focus more on San Guinem and less on Velum, he was a rather poor conversationalist but a skilled craftsman. He'd do well with her father she thinks, and then the hostess appeared. Excusing herself ever so politely, Valessia took a step back to allow her a more physical presence in the conversation. "Indeed I am." She affirmed for the brunette beside her. "No, I'm quite well thank you and it is my pleasure. I was just a little surprised to receive the invitation so thank you, for inviting me, Miss...?" Valessia trails waiting for the brunette to fill in the blanks since the scion of house Brentioch wasn't all that familiar with those within the First Order itself.

Just as she did so, her little eyes spotted [member="Marzena Choi"]. Oh, of course, she should make her way over, "Excuse me, Moff Fortan." She doesn't show her surprise to the title but rather acknowledges it with a more than pleased tone of voice. "Thank you again, Moff Fortan. If you'll both excuse me."

She politely exited the conversation and made her way for Marzena and her companion Jean Paul Renaud. Valessia stopped a moment and recognize just who it was that Marzena was speaking with. Gathering her composure, she motioned for her guards to follow. [member="Claire Organa"], well there was a name and a face she hadn't expected to be here on Bespin. Still, Valessia threw her shoulders back and walked with poise toward the three. She stood closer to Marzena but held her posture to open to both Marzena and Claire. "Excuse me, I just came to say hello to Ms. Choi, and her companion, although I don't believe we've been properly introduced." Her voice was softer than usual but no less formal. "Valessia Brentioch of Brentaal IV." The introduction was meant for both Jean Paul, and of course Claire Organa.

[member="Dunames Lopez"], [member="Natasi Fortan"]

 

[Claire Organa]

Claire wasn't sure this was a good idea being in First Order space, but she knew she had a relative of sorts here on Bespin and if need be she would seek her out over on the mining platform. Course she had a message for her from home from the family.

She had barely take a few steps inside when through the crowd came a familiar face, she smiled at [member="Marzena Choi"] oh thank the goddess she thought that there was someone here she knew. She even had Jean Paul with her.
She smiled broadly and made her way to meet them, "Marzena if you hadn't invited me I'm not sure I would be here. I'm..well a bit nervous" Not that she was nervous about making new contacts and perhaps opening lines of communication to buyers but her perception of what the First Order was. She only hoped they would let her leave.

"I would love to go back to Spira for their summer showing it's smaller than Fashion Week, and I've heard they are going to change the venue for the Fall Show and move it somewhere else, I haven't heard yet where. Have you?"

She looked around cautiously as she made conversation. She came by a small ship out of Alderaan, and she was certain that the identification beacon blaring it was from Alderaan had raised more than one eyebrow within the air traffic control office.

She started to say something else when another woman joined them introducing herself as being from Brentaal IV, "A pleasure to meet you Ms. Brentioch, I'm Claire Organa" She smiled and extended her hand.

[member="Dunames Lopez"] | [member="Natasi Fortan"] | [member="Valessia Brentioch"]

 

[Natasi Fortan]

Natasi blinked as [member="Valessia Brentioch"] walked away, her eyebrows furrowing quizzically. Is there no one in the galaxy who doesn't -- she forced the thought away before it could conclude and took a deep breath, forcing herself to feign interest in the measly shipwright for a few moments before escaping with a polite excuse. She turned slipped through the crowd, forcing a smile for the crowd. She had a brief conversation with Darrel Irani, an important businessman, and when he excused himself to talk with an Arceneau representative, the Moff headed for the stairs. Less than an hour of mingling and she was just done already. Halfway up the steps, she turned and surveyed the crowd. There were plenty of First Order personnel there to keep the hosting going. She could safely slip away and regain some semblance of composure.

She rendezvoused with Sioux at the top of the steps. "Sioux," Natasi said, pinching the bridge of her nose. "Did we ever hear from General [member="Ludolf Vaas"] 's office whether he would be able to attend? We have some more junior officers available if he's not able, but I'd really like to impress them with some brass." Sioux reported that they hadn't heard one way or another and Natasi looked down into the crowd, sighing quietly before releasing her grip on her nose. "I'm going to my room to... ah, catch up on some dispatches. If anyone asks. Do tell me if General Vaas or anyone on the list arrives."

"Ma'am," said Sioux cautiously, reaching out to put a hand on Natasi's bare forearm. The Moff looked up into her private secretary's face. "Do you need..." Her voice trailed off and she added uncertainly: "...anything?"

"Just a few moments of quiet. I'll be back." She squeezed Sioux's hand and smiled. "Promise."

 

[Lan Porgata]

Fashionably late, if Muuns could be fashionable at all, Lan arrived with a small delegation from the corporate offices of the InterGalactic Banking Clan. Compared to the colorful ensembles of the attendees, the Muuns no doubt looked dour, as their grey skin and features did not lend themselves to extravagant shows of color and style. However, they were gracious in their greetings and elegant in their manners as Lan smiled faintly and dispatched his assistant Eon, to get him a drink.

There were several notable faces in the crowd, many of whom he knew from financial news as the movers and shakers of the galactic economic scene. Not a few of them, he would like to make the acquaintance of while he attended to IGBC business and greeted some rising entrepreneurs.

Eon brought him a small glass of brandy, the cordial dwarfed in his long fingered hands, but he sipped it and took in the crowd as his delegation attended to their accommodations. Muuns generally loathed travel, but Lan was getting rather used to it. He enjoyed the spectacle of a new place, of a new culture. It might be seen as odd by his kin, but his outgoing nature had been key to reviving the IGBC into a larger presence on the galactic stage.

He hoped to get a meeting with the officials of the First Order while he was at the summit. Business could wait though, it was a long trip from his corner of the galaxy, and he was enjoying not being on a ship for the time being.

[member="Natasi Fortan"]

 

[Marzena Vaas]

She was not terribly surprised to see that [member="Claire Organa"] was nervous about being there, but she placed a hand on her friend’s shoulder and gave a reassuring squeeze. Marzena left her hand there for a moment or two, before letting it fall back to her side.

“Don’t worry, Claire. There’s nothing to be nervous about, I promise you.”

Jean Paul nodded his agreement next to her; he’d been living in Cloud City for several weeks now, and had found nothing to complain about. And Marzena knew that complaining was something of a hobby for him.

Out of the corner of her eyes, Marzena saw that [member="Valessia Brentioch"] was speaking with [member="Natasi Fortan"]. However, what tiny part of her gaze had found them would not linger for long, for Claire had just mentioned Fashion Week. That’s right; all of the designers were gearing up for their summer collections. For a moment, Marzena’s mind was filled with images of swimsuits, strappy shoes, and airy, flowing gowns.

“We should go to Spira together; we’ll make it a party. Just like last time.” She winked.

A moment later she turned to see that Valessia had come to join their group, and she also noticed that the delicate form of the other woman was nowhere to be seen. Interesting... It seemed that her introduction would just have to wait. And here stood four people that loved fashion, and had some involvement in the industry. She had been hoping to introduce her designer friends to Ms. Brentioch, there was potential for very beneficial business relationships... and perhaps, friendships too.

“How lovely to see you again, Ms. Brentioch.” She nodded, and then gestured to her side. “This is Jean Paul Renaud. He’s an old friend, and has recently moved his fashion company here to Bespin.”

“So, this is the fabulous Ms. Brentioch?” He said grinning, “I’ve heard about your work from our lovely Marzena.”

Of course, the Organa name was well known throughout the galaxy, she knew that Claire probably would draw a certain amount of attention while she was here. But it would be a boon to her business. Marzena watched with a pleased smile as Claire stepped forward to introduce herself to Valessia.

“Ms. Brentioch, do you happen to remember the gown that I wore to your fashion show? That was one of Claire’s designs.”

 

[Dunames Lopez]

With Jessica moving away to meet with other representatives of Kuat-Entralla Engineering (but isn't Kuat-Entralla Engineering a subsidiary of Kuat Drive Yards operating in First Order space?) Dunames was free to approach representatives of MandalMotors, while briefly stating that Mandalorians were interested in the rotating flail instead. Arceneau Trade Company, Industrial Automaton, Botajef Shipyards, Colicoid Creation Nest... the list goes on and on. Understandably the Botajef representative was angry at both Jessica and Dunames, with the latter going up to [member="Claire Organa"] to talk about what she did for the First Order. Fashion was a big topic for Claire and Dunames knew it, even though she isn't just as much of a fashionista as they were.

"I am Dunames Lopez, from Star Tours. Despite wearing the latest creation of the Gothic line from Anastasia Volzhin on Dulvoyinn, I can assure you that company would want to make it big on Lipsec before trying their hands on Alderaan, Coruscant or Hosnian Prime. And you should try the Lipstick Express too, if you want to explore the finest fineries in the Outer Rim"

"Ms. Volzhin just booked a ticket to Lanteeb" Frank told her.

"Frank? What are you doing here? What would bring her to Lanteeb? I do not think she is there for beaches; Dulvoyinn is a tropical world much like Lanteeb"

"Forgive me, but who is this... Anastasia Volzhin?" Jessica asked Dunames.

"She used to be a fashion model on Coruscant that had enough fame to launch her own clothing lines. It is not known whether the collection of clothing you are wearing will be up for limited, minor or mass production, but at least limited for sure. Her production facilities were on Dulvoyinn, she took a while longer to pack up and leave once the Alliance won on Dulvoyinn, she initiated the procedures to get production moved to Lanteeb and to open a store on Lipsec in addition to the Lanteeb one"

In the fashion world, semi-unique, limited, minor or mass production carry different meanings from what they mean in a military manufacturing context, even though they both refer to clientele on some level. And, before taking up modeling, she was a failed architect that could only get one design built, on Malastare of all planets: Darth Scabious' mansion. Rumor is it that Darth Scabious is selling that mansion on Malastare to an as-of-yet undetermined member of the One Sith forces that has shown valiance on the battlefield. Her work was criticized pretty heavily for not fitting with the environment in which it was built. The known fashion capitals were Coruscant, Lipsec, Naboo, Alderaan, Hosnian Prime and Neimoidia.

"A One Sith refugee? That was fast. Will she keep the shops she owned on Dulvoyinn or elsewhere in that area?"

"I expect the Galactic Alliance to let her keep her shops in their space"

"There will be only one big fashion capital left in dark-sided space if Operation Blackout (i.e. the siege of Coruscant) results in the successful capture of that world by the Galactic Alliance: Lipsec. Frank, can you get me a Nar Shaddaa-standard bottle of Château Motti please?"

Soon enough, Dunames had an 1.75-liter bottle of Château Motti, 830 ABY vintage handed to her by Frank.

[member="Marzena Choi"] [member="Lan Porgata"] [member="Natasi Fortan"] [member="Claire Organa"] [member="Valessia Brentioch"]

 

[Natasi Fortan]

The peace and quiet in Natasi's suite was short-lived. A holocall from the office informed her that a construction accident -- a crane collapse -- on Dosuun had cost sixty-seven lives and nearly a block of nearly-complete buildings in the capital city that was nearing completion. So instead of lying quietly on her bed with her eyes shut, Natasi Fortan found herself looking into the virtual conference of her crisis response team lightyears away, once again pinching the bridge of her nose as she scribbled quick calculations on her notepad. "That will put us back... say, twenty million, when we factor in the worker's compensation and insurance for those killed?" she looked blankly into the lens of the holocamera.

"About there, ma'am," replied the lead actuary.

Natasi looked down at her notepad and breathed a sigh. "And sixty-seven lives. This is just... it is unacceptable. This is the First Order, gentlemen. This is Dossun and its capital city. The shining gem of this entire faction and the legacy of all of us who have worked to build it. This isn't some backwater where there are no regulations. I want an investigation into who inspected that crane last, the date -- just get me everything on it." She blew out another sigh of exasperation. "Luckily for me," she told her crisis response team. "The Director of ISHA is here, on Bespin. I'm going to pull him aside and have a quiet word." The light over the door flashed; Natasi keyed the camera on the otherside and saw that it was Sioux, so she buzzed her in. "Just a moment. What is it? Did the General arrive?"

Sioux looked perturbed by the question. "Uh, no ma'am. You asked to be notified if anyone on the list arrived. The delegation from the InterGalactic Banking Clan has arrived." Natasi nodded and activated her holocall again. "Gentleman, I need to step out. Please bring Sioux up to speed and she'll keep me briefed. Thank you, everyone." She vacated the seat and gestured for Sioux to take it. Two minutes later she was making her way down the steps again, taking the mental efforts to reinforce her diplomat face. The Muun was easy to find in the din, and she approached directly.

"Chairman Porgata, if I'm not much mistaken," Natasi said genially as she came within range. "We are honored, indeed deeply honored, that you and your comrades would travel so far to add your voices to this summit. Welcome to Bespin. I'm Natasi Fortan, Moff of the First Order's Home Territories." She beamed brightly at him and then at his entourage. "If there is anything I can arrange to make your stay here more comfortable, please don't hesitate."

[member="Lan Porgata"] | [member="Marzena Choi"] | [member="Dunames Lopez"] | [member="Valessia Brentioch"] | [member="Claire Organa"]

 

[Valessia Brentioch]

"A pleasure to meet you Ms. Organa." Valessia greeted with a smile and gave Marzena a warmer smile. "And to see you as well, Ms. Choi." She gave her attention to the rather eccentric looking man, but upon hearing that he would be moving his fashion company to Bespin she put a hand to her chest and gave her best-delighted response. Which to be honest, she was and she'd probably be delighted if it weren't for the fact that she was vying for the First Order's investments as well. "How lovely, I should hope to be at the grand opening Mr. Renaud, sounds like I'll have more and more cause to remain here on Bespin."

Valessia smiled at the compliment, "thank you Mr. Renaud, but truly my work has only just begun."

Marzena then explained the dress and Valessia took a step back. "Really? Ms. Organa, your talent is simply divine." She complimented her on the dress, and it truly was a remarkable dress. One that Valessia most certainly admired on Marzena that evening. She looked around wondering if the General [member="Ludolf Vaas"] would make an appearance. As she gazed and surveyed the lobby she spotted a Muun but not just any Muun, rather Chairman [member="Lan [/FONT][/SIZE][SIZE=14px][FONT='trebuchet ms']Porgata"] of the IGBC.

The First Order certainly attracted quite the dossier, didn't they? As she returned her attention back to the conversation at hand she was able to spot [member="Dunames Lopez"] out of the corner of her eye.

[member="Natasi [/FONT][/SIZE][SIZE=14px][FONT='trebuchet ms']Fortan"], [member="Marzena Choi"], [member="Claire Organa"]

 

[Dunames Lopez]

By now Jessica and Dunames were brought in front of [member="Natasi Fortan"] and [member="Lan Porgata"] by Frank, with the latter holding the large (1.75 L) unopened bottle of Château Motti they ordered. Frank secretly wished the two ladies to be able to drink the contents in one go, as he knew Anastasia to be capable of: her alcohol antics feature regularly in Coruscanti dark-sided tabloids. They towered so many of the humans in attendance so easily, even though Dunames was, in fact, a Polydroxol whose normal form is, well, Near-Human, if not outright human.

"The implications of Operation Blackout cannot be overemphasized: the ensuing chaos to the dark-sided business world just makes it that much more important for us to capitalize on us becoming the prime business center of dark-sided space. The Sith Triumvirate appears to display the same lack of interest in business matters as the One Sith does"

"May I have a word about Darth Scabious, whom the Alliance captured on Malastare?"

"Jessica, I believe that Darth Scabious searched the galaxy far and wide for some sort of trophy wife last I heard about that guy. He seemed to prefer ladies that had some artistic refinement. Anastasia is rumored to be engaged with that guy"

Darth Scabious reappeared in dark-sided tabloids when he was captured on Malastare, after several months of disappearance, when the Primeval fell into obscurity, and the Techno Union along with it. He is rather old, almost ninety standard years old, and he was a stakeholder in the Colicoid Creation Nest, Baktoid Combat Automata, Xi Char Cathedral, to name those that failed the most spectacularly... he was a fervent partisan of droid armies led by a comparatively small number of organics.

"Darth Scabious used to serve the One Sith at some point. Darth Scabious was disgruntled with the OS' nonchalant attitude about commerce and economy and he feels that all that the Sith Lords are interested in are power, atrocities and military force and then left the One Sith service"

"He served the Techno Union and then the Primeval hired him to defend the Malastare fuel fields"

"He was also the last known owner of Quaint Gardens Beauty before [member="Alize Rosenheim"] bought it and Anastasia was the egeria of that company"

"Frank, is Darth Scabious in the list of summit attendees?"

[member="Valessia Brentioch"] [member="Natasi Fortan"] [member="Marzena Choi"] [member="Lan Porgata"] [member="Claire Organa"]

 

[Claire Organa]

[member="Valessia Brentioch"]
[member="Marzena Choi"]

She held onto Marzenas hand a bit longer, one might think they were more than friends by the way she wouldn't let go.

"You're too kind Ms. Brentioch, but thank you. Perhaps you'll allow me to dress you one evening." ,business was business this also presented opportunity, "this is my first,visit to Bespin any recommendations?"

She looked past the small group. There were other faces full of anticipation all waiting for their moment to,shine.

She had to admit it was beautiful. A city that floated among the clouds and yet not a single breeze disrupted them,, or was felt on the cheek.

 

[Maelion Liates]

[member="Natasi Fortan"] [member="Callisto Scarlett"]

A small shuttle touched down and swiftly the representatives from Archangel Research & Design were on their way to the First Order’s meeting.

Maelion Liates was wearing fashionable attire, as befitted a cocktail party among the best and brightest of the First Order. Of course, her job there was not to do anything more than establish a deal with the group as a means for their eventual ends.

However, no one at the meeting would know her by that name. Rather, she was here as Anna Comnena, CEO of Archangel.

Walking to the desk she introduced herself. They had of course called ahead.
“Anna Comnena, Archangel Research & Design,” she said with a smile.
“Please go on through, ma’am, the cocktail party has begun.”

Anna nodded, and after waiting for her companion to join up, she descended into the mingling throng.

 

[Enyo Typhos]

[member="Maelion Liates"], [member="Natasi Fortan"]


Anna Comnena was not attending the soiree alone, for Ms. Scarlett had accompanied her to the cocktail party. The tall, statuesque woman was wearing a fashionable black dress and her red hair was done up.


She was here as part bodyguard, part assistant, part walking and talking advertisement for Archangel's flagship product. Only the most sophisticated scanning devices would be able to look past the Metal Princesses' pretty, so very human exterior and perceive her true nature.


Thus Callisto descended into the mingling throng alongside her boss. Keen blue eyes scanned the grand hall as they entered, taking in the various guests who'd gathered for this occasion. Government functionaries, captains of industry, military personnel and so on. The First Order was a potential business opportunity for Archangel, a place where they could put down roots and profit. The fact that many of the fascist dictatorship's beliefs aligned with Archangel's was advantageous, too.