First Order Economic & Commerce Summit [Invite]

[Marzena Vaas]

Marzena blinked a few times when her last sentence had ended and was followed by silence. There was just enough of a gap for a little awkwardness to creep in, and she felt it moving through the air between her and Natasi. However, her smile returned when Moff Fortan responded, returning to the present.

“Oh, not to worry.” She nodded, “And I’m sure that I will be well cared for.” That was always the case when she came to stay at the Whitetower. Marzena had not been very worried about security for this event, for she felt very safe on Bespin, but the additional measures did set her mind at ease. Had the event been anywhere else, she would have likely declined to perform.

For a moment Marzena’s eyes followed Natasi’s hand in the direction of the other guests. And there was a quick glance aimed in the direction of the door. It seemed that the one person she had truly hoped to see would not be making an appearance. For a moment her expression grew distant, and it was Marzena’s turn to return to the conversation a bit unprepared. It took her a brief moment to take in what Moff Fortan had just asked.

“Yes, that’s correct.” Her eyes and smile had returned to Natasi, “I am interested in opening a new mall here in Cloud City, and moving our corporate headquarters here as well.” Cloud City did not have a shortage of boutiques, but the market was just what they were looking for. Even though she was CEO, she felt like she held very little power within her father’s company, the members of the board did not truly see her as a leader. They were merely using Marzena for her name, her looks, and her fame. It was a thought that made her feel a bit hollow, if she contemplated it for too long... so she simply avoided it. In truth, her brother had been running the company in the shadows, ever since their father's death.

“My brother will be taking over as Chief Executive in a matter of weeks,” She said with a nod, “I’m afraid that I am not executive material.” Marzena responded with a soft laugh, trying to keep the mood light.

“Moff Fortan, have you already met Dunames Lopez?” She asked, gesturing politely towards the Commissioner. “And may I present Claire Organa, Chief Executive and Designer of Contessa.”

Marzena did not want to neglect her companions, and she smiled over at Claire.

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

 

[Claire Organa]

A model that drank that wasn't as bad as the models that used drugs to keep their shape, or control their appetites. It bothered Claire she had to admit that espiecally given the problems with Tori, the paraphernalia that was found in her room after she left gave Claire an indication how bad her sister's issues were.

She nodded with understanding as she listened to [member="Dunames Lopez"] . "I would like to see her and see if she is, up to one of the shows, depending upon her look." The look of a model added to the look of the clothing, Claire's clothing were flowing, light materials, the model had to represent that.

However how when this other woman approached Claire had already seen in her step a slight hesitation, Claire looked at [member="Marzena Choi"] and then began that age old tradition of organa women, she listened. She arched a brow when Marzena spoke of her brother taking over, that....was a surprise considering the conversation they had on Alderaan. she would not question here friend her and now about the remark.

When introduced Claire smiled, "Moff Fortan, a pleasure to meet you" she extended her hand in greeting. She however did wonder if there was something more being hinted at. An attraction? Or business that she wished to discuss alone for all the mention of security Claire could feel that little bubble of anxiety inside her jump again.

[member="Natasi Fortan"]

 

[Dunames Lopez]

Dunames was not one to judge how good a fit models were with specific pieces of clothing. But Marzena had some misgivings about Anastasia and her drinking ability, while Claire preferred a model that drank in quantity over one that used drugs to keep their shapes or control their appetites. Probably Contessa should open a Nar Shaddaa location at a later date, Dunames thought. After having opened the Lipstick Express (departing from Eriadu, this meant Lipsec or Hosnian Prime, while Hosnian Prime also had a Nar Shaddaa service from the Lanever Villecham Starport as well) one would think that she would know more about fashion than she used to. But what is fashionable had a lot to do with taste. Nar Shaddians had different tastes from Zeltrons, which themselves had different tastes from First Order residents, and so on, so forth.

"You probably understand that it is a question of taste: it's not always easy to reconcile the tastes of the designers with those of the public they sell to. Doesn't mean that a certain model would fit Alderaanian tastes that she would fit First Order tastes, no more than she would fit Mandalorian tastes"

"Speaking of Mandalorian taste, when I was working on Nar Shaddaa for Bluth Company, I remember that some Mandalorian fashion talent agency approached me twice but I remembered that it might be because of my imposing silhouette: Mandalorians prefer models with heavier builds or so I was told" Jessica told Dunames.

But then she would be anathema to Omwati or Zeltron fashion companies, to whom the reverse is true.

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

 

[Natasi Fortan]

Endlessly grateful for the opportunity to talk to someone -- anyone -- else, Natasi instantly turned to join the rest of the conversation, listening to [member="Marzena Choi"] introduce the women she had been talking to.

Natasi exchanged a handshake and pleasantries with [member="Dunames Lopez"] before turning to [member="Claire Organa"]. "Delighted you could be here, Ms. Organa," she said, pumping Claire's hand enthusiastically. "Thank you for making the journey." Natasi had recently reviewed a catalog of Contessa's offerings and had found it to be rather a mixed bag, but there was, without a doubt, great potential. The regular women's collection had some rather promising pieces, as did the jewelry items on offer, but a peruse through the so-called princess collection was shocking to the conservative Moff. To her eye, the items on offer there were more suited to a woman in an entirely different profession, but which still did begin with P. None of this Natasi said to Claire, of course. Instead she said: "I have so enjoyed looking at the beautiful things your company creates. Perhaps some day I will have the opportunity to indulge myself and visit the shop, although I rather feel I haven't the figure for it," she said with a self-deprecating chuckle.

Natasi was slender and slim, but more boyish in her figure, with smaller breasts and hips which lent itself to a certain style. Natasi spied Marzena Choi over the rim of her gin and tonic glass as she sipped it, her eyes taking in her form and face. The Moff flinched and took another sip of her drink before returning it to normal levels, still looking out the side of her eye at the glamorous celebrity. In comparison, Natasi thought, perhaps the Moff hadn't yet found the style that worked for her after all.

Turning her attention back to Claire, Natasi inclined her head. "Are you interested in expanding into new markets, Ms. Organa? I'm sure the capital city would benefit from the attentions of a woman of your prestige." Natasi smiled politely. "Perhaps even Cloud City. I understand there is a booming demand for boutique, high-end retail here among the clouds."

 

[Ciana Teigra]

Even as a pragmatic sort, her mother hadn't been exactly ecstatic with her intention to travel to First Order space herself. As far as imperial powers went, the First Order appeared fairly benign, promoting economic progress in addition to military might with the upcoming summit, but it was still an authoritarian regime at the end of the day. Though Suravi eventually came around as Ciana made every assurance that she was only pursuing commercial ventures there, in association with [member="Marzena Choi"] of the Kingdom Group. The songstress had been the one to extend her an invitation to the summit.

So she made her way to Bespin aboard her personal yacht, chock full of an inordinate amount security guards and Paladin commandos (compliments of her mother). The lot of them were left to their own devices on the ship or around Cloud City after she had touched down. She arrived about a day ahead of the meeting, which gave her time to partake in some sight seeing before her official check in. She kept to the upper levels where the wealthy denizens and tourists congregated. She found some decent attractions like casionos and malls, but they didn't hold a candle to the grand resort towns onKiribi, made to cater to the sophisticated inhabitants of the Core region. There was definitely a killing to be made here.

After some time to herself, she sent a message to Marzena to announce her presence, then retired to her yacht for the night. The next morning, she entered Whitetower to check in and drop off her bags, then spent the day getting a head start mingling with the other attendants she picked out with no other intent but into engage in some networking, and to get a better idea about the First Order right from people who called the space their home. She took their words were taken with a grain of salt, though. The privileged were usually insulated from the bad happenings of where they lived. She was definitely dealing with imperialists here alright, but she was pleased to see that this particular bunch put a high stock on enterprise. That may interest her mother, who was always looking for common ground between different groups.

She took a late lunch with a few people she identified as being the most beneficial to Panacea, vendors who could provide storefronts for products and services, and a holocomm mogul interested in employing Panacea's proprietary biocomm system. The vong-inspired communication system eliminated much of the need for expensive infrastructure for superluminal networks, an attractive feature for companies based far out in the Outer Rim.

Following lunch, she returned to her room to prepare for the reception. For the event, she chose a strapless chiffon dress with large ruffles reminiscent of petals. She usually wore her hair down, but tonight she had it pinned up in an elaborate chignon updo. As for her makeup, she went with a mix of bold and bright colors to give her features some pop.

Back on the floor, she struck up conversations with people she had met earlier in the day, along with some new faces. A few of her bodyguards roamed the hotel on silent patrol, but she had come to the event alone. Sometime during the proceedings, she spied Marzena, so she broke up from the group that had gathered around her to catch up. She came to the side of the smaller woman, opening with a little wave and smile.

"Thank you for the invitation. Lovely reception so far."

She took notice of the other people around Marzena, acknowledging them all with a quick glance.

 

[Marzena Vaas]

Marzena noted the way Moff Fortan had jumped at the opportunity to escape their conversation to address her companions. Had she also spotted a hint of relief in the other woman’s face? It left her with the distinct impression that the Moff was avoiding her. However, as she stood listening quietly, she could feel the Moff’s eyes upon her every now and then.

When Natasi made a comment about her figure, Marzena took a quick glance over to the side. Though the Moff was slim and straight, she was far from being unattractive. In fact, many models would have killed for a body like hers, as clothing was often presented on women with similar frames. While Marzena was not buxom, she did have slender curves that worked well with most silhouettes, but she did know which ones did not suit her. She had always believed that clothing could transform a person; it was only a matter of finding the right fit.

She had just been about to remark that she had been trying to convince Claire to set up shop in Cloud City, when she saw that the stunning [member="Ciana Teigra"] had suddenly appeared at her side. If ever there was a woman to be envious of – it was Miss Teigra. Even in her high heels, Marzena found herself looking up to say hello to the tall woman with bronze colored hair.

“Good evening, Miss Teigra. It’s lovely to see you again.” Marzena offered a warm smile, “I was wondering when we would cross paths tonight.” She wondered exactly how long Miss Teigra had been present at the reception, and how she could have missed her in the crowd. It had not been long since Marzena’s trip to Kiribi, the planet was a new discovery for the celebrity, and she had adored the pristine city that Panacea Corporation called home. Marzena had visited Panacea to learn more about their rejuvenation technology –but no one else needed to know about that. However, Ciana’s company specialized in various medical and agricultural operations that could benefit the First Order.

“This is Miss Ciana Teigra of Panacea Corporation on Kiribi.” Marzena turned back to the rest of the group, “I had the pleasure of visiting Panacea recently, and I was very impressed.” Introductions were in order again, and it seemed that Marzena had become a bit of a networking hub for the evening, but she did delight in being well connected. Her dark eyes moved swiftly about her companions, it was nice to see such a strong showing of savvy women.

Marzena introduced Moff [member="Natasi Fortan"] first, followed by [member="Claire Organa"] and [member="Dunames Lopez"], gesturing to each politely as she spoke their names.

 

[Natasi Fortan]

Natasi turned to see Marzena greeting a new face, and when she was introduced, offered her hand for a firm shake. "How do you do?" she asked politely before falling silent as [member="Ciana Teigra"] was introduced by [member="Marzena Choi"] to the others. It seemed that Ms. Choi was more than just a celebrity, more than a pretty face. There seemed to be no end to her connections -- she had already proved herself of more use than just the entertainment. Natasi's cheek twitched; it was increasingly difficult to maintain her feelings. She drained her gin and tonic and set it on the tray of a passing waiter, snatching a small plate of hors d'ouvres instead. The waiter paused to offer his wares to anyone else who might be interested before moving along.

"Panacea Corporation," Natasi repeated, turning the words over in her mouth. They were unfamiliar; she hadn't read anything about them. But then, that made sense; Kiribi was on the other side of the -- Natasi's thought broke off and she looked sidelong at Marzena again. Kiribi was in independent space... this much was true. But it was rather too close for comfort to the One SIth, with whom relations were cordial but chilly; to the Republic, with whom diploamtic relations had not yet been established; and to the Mandalorians, whose intentions towards the First Order were unknown. Natasi's glance towards Marzena had been momentary; she returned her attention to Ms. Teigra and smiled primly. "My, you have come a long way. We're pleased to have you here. I hope to learn much more about your business during your stay."

[member="Claire Organa"] | [member="Dunames Lopez"]

 

[Maelion Liates]

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

Maelion smiled and nodded.
“I look forward to meeting you for more in depth discussions, Moff Fortan,” she said.

It was a busy social event, and she knew humans couldn’t keep their attention on more than a couple of things at a time.

Maelion and Callisto could wait, and in the meantime butter up others in the party about their company and products. Then, they could discuss all with the Moff later.

 

[Claire Organa]

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

She listened to [member="Dunames Lopez"] , "I think you will find that culture usually dictates 50% of what a customer wants to see, and then the other 50% is their own personal preference. So you, or I do, try to design only for the woman what she wants, not so much what everyone else wants to see." It was what got Claire started the individual tastes of the women around her, and how they wanted to feel about their clothes and in their clothes. Not what everyone expected them to look like.

"Moff Fortan I think you have the perfect figure and there is always something that will accent it perfectly you should come for a visit or maybe I should visit you that might be easier on the security team. My business takes me to places like Bespin that freaks them all out." Claire laughed.

If she only knew the Princess liked to dress that way for her Consort. Additionally Faith had the figure for it, and wore it well. Course it had taken Claire over a year to get her to stop complaining about wearing the dress or any dress. Now Draco he liked the suits ok, but he loved Faith's dresses. Eh..that was just one person. A few others enjoyed the fit as well, it all depended on what imagine they wanted to project.

"I have been considering it but I wonder about the red tape, and how my customers within the Republic would react. I'd have to find out before making a decision, but it certainly is a place that draws a variety of people" A variety that she could use.

Claire greeted the newcomer [member="Ciana Teigra"] her outfit was quite lovely, a bit like the couture line she had been working on. The shape of the skirt and line of the bust, yes done quite well.

 

[Natasi Fortan]

Natasi smiled easily and shook her head with a little chuckle, favoring the Alderaani woman with an indulgent and genuine smile. "Oh, very well, Ms. Organa, I will find a way to visit your shop and you can stop flattering me." She took a bite of her hors d'ouvres, looking down in amicable silence for a few moments before rejoining her concern with Republic customers' view on establishing a store on Bespin, though she kept her gaze on the floor.

"I don't know. I often wonder whether these things really matter to the people -- you know, the everyday people who are just trying to live a life. As far as I'm aware, the Republic and the First Order are not declared enemies, and I for one would never begrudge the men and women living in Republic space the chance to wear such beautiful, beautiful things."

This was, in contrast to Natasi's public persona heretofore, rather a softer side. The Moff looked up and cast her gaze around the assembled women and offered an apologetic smile. "Oh dear, I wonder if the cocktails have gotten to me," she said with a smirk, just sardonic enough to indicate that they had not. "At any rate, if you have concerns about red tape -- the whole point of this conference is to discuss ways to open the First Order for business and investment. If you are interested, I'm sure we can find a way to work together."

[member="Marzena Choi"] | [member="Ciana Teigra"] | [member="Dunames Lopez"] | [member="Claire Organa"]

 

[Dunames Lopez]

Dunames was amused by the mention of red tape by [member="Claire Organa"] and [member="Natasi Fortan"] even though her perspective on what red tape entails comes from a different industry. Perhaps textiles or fashion industries, or retail even, could do with less red tape, with the remaining red tape being carefully chosen as to ensure quality standards. But there is little room for reducing the red tape in space hauling industries without compromising the safety of spaceflight, as the wheels of economy revolve around spaceflight, both of passengers and of freight. There are few things more frightening in the galaxy than a space flight gone awry due to some systems malfunction.

"Red tape? I would like more concrete examples about the concerns of red tape that may be specific to manufacturing industries: I work in the transportation industry and most of the red tape being complained about in my industry is transportation-specific"

"Speaking of red tape, in shipbuilding, and transportation as well, safety is the single most important reason for the existing red tape. We wouldn't want the space equivalent of a Dosuun crane incident because space travel is unforgiving. The Republic demands ground proximity warning systems on all ships capable of landing on planetary surfaces, not just capital ships as would be the case in Sith Triumvirate-land"

"Inertial compensators for all ships with hyperdrive rating 3 or better, maintenance checks that become increasingly comprehensive..."

[member="Marzena Choi"] [member="Ciana Teigra"]

 

[Claire Organa]

[member="Marzena Choi"][member="Natasi Fortan"][member="Dunames Lopez"]

"I'm beginning to like it here, I think I will look around and Moff Fortan I'll come to you. It might be easier. I'll bring samples we can have some tea talk and figure out what makes you feel good." Claire felt her cheeks go red.

"I mean what clothes make you feel good. Comfortable. Or even happy" She took a long draw on her glass. Good grief.

She looked at Marzena then to Ms. Lopez. Yep that was an opening that only invited deliberation. Comments.

"Miss Lopez do you have many dealings with the Republic?"

Moving along.

Lord.

Lol.

 

[Dunames Lopez]

"I can't speak for Jessica, or Ringovinda StarYards, but Star Tours does fly in Republic space: Loronar, Denon, Nubia, Kashyyyk, Umbara, to name a few. Umbara is a destination served with Neimoidian Yachts from Ringo Vinda and Hosnian Prime, and Neimoidian Yachts are not capital ships. We had to make sure we actually have the system Jessica talked about before we could even start using Pullmans or Neimoidian Yachts to serve lower-density routes to Republican worlds. Hosnian Prime, regardless of whether it actually is a Republican world, is our Core Worlds base"

"Neimoidian Yachts are a favorite of, well, Neimoidians: they are a common sight over Cato Neimoidia which, despite the rebellion attempt by the Black Tie Syndicate, is still a Republican world"

Dunames could go on and on about the red tape as applied to the transportation industry and how she regularly flaunts the regulations, but decided that the Summit was not the place to discuss how to do so. That, however, is the main way in which Star Tours flaunts regulations, but since the violations are otherwise profitable for all parties involved, Star Tours can get away with it so long as the merchandise being carried does not pose safety risks to the ship or its occupants. But when hazardous materials are involved, like hypermatter or explosives, Star Tours acts differently. Many corporations have realized by now that bulk freight

"Just read guest columns by Marcia Halpern or Jessica Med-Beq in Taking Off on a Star Tour and you will realize how the Factory Judges are actually straitjackets when it comes to carrying otherwise harmless cargo, like alusteel plates or wroshyr wood. Probably the FJs are hazardous materials specialists"

"I'm that Jessica she talks about. The thing is that we actually can fill the hold of a Tofolk with 30,000 tons of alusteel plates and beams... or a Maersk with a million tons of such things"

[member="Claire Organa"] [member="Natasi Fortan"] [member="Ciana Teigra"] [member="Marzena Choi"]