Mirror, mirror on the wall...

[Marzena Vaas]

Marzena had been spending a great amount of time in front of her mirror, not that this was out of the ordinary. Her life as a celebrity did require a certain amount of vanity, and much of her time was spent preening, primping and ensuring that she always stepped out looking fabulous. She had an extensive skincare regimen that went far beyond most; pre-cleansing to remove makeup, cleansing, applying essence, toning, serum and then adding cream or oil to seal everything in. This routine was very time consuming, she never viewed it as a chore, even if it caused her to develop the habit of being tardy. However, lately she had been taking less and less joy in her daily practice, for she had started to notice... things.

She had always been blessed with a very clear and flawless complexion, but recently she had been very upset to find a small blemish. Upon closer inspection she thought she saw the hint of a fine line next to the corner of her eyes. These were minor imperfections that most normal people would easily overlook, especially with a skilled application of makeup. But the thought of appearing less than perfect sent her into a downward spiral. Marzena knew that the stress, lack of sleep, and dehydration were likely the causes of her problems. It was little use to try and reason with herself, so she did the next best thing: browse the holonet for the newest in up and coming skincare.

While she had been using various anti-aging creams and the like, she felt what she needed now was a more targeted treatment. Her slender finger came to rest upon the screen of her datapad, and traced a line under the words “Panacea Corporation”. This company was said to have state of the art rejuvenation technology, Marzena was more than intrigued. It would mean a trip to Kiribi, quite a voyage from her home on Bespin... but it would be well worth it. The celebrity boarded her transport, brought along two of her guards and set off.

And now she was touching down on the pristine planet, her eyes impressed by the stately and modern aesthetics of the city. Her high heels clicked at a leisurely pace and she continued towards the headquarters of Panacea, she had called ahead to make an appointment of course. Marzena stepped inside wearing large sunglasses that obscured most of her face, and informed the administrator that she was here to speak with the CEO. She took a seat in the lobby and wondered for a moment what sort of treatments were in store for her.

[member="Ciana Teigra"]

 

[Ciana Teigra]

When the Marketing and PR Department of Panacea got wind of the heiress Marzena Choi booking an appointment with their services front, the information was passed up the chain to the highest levels of the company, until Ciana herself was made aware. With just a little digging into the matter herself, she quickly saw what her subordinates did. The woman was a celebrity, but more importantly, was apparently well connected in political and business circles in her neck of the galaxy. Panacea was in the midst of aggressive expansion under Ciana, so she would certainly take advantage of the opportunity to grow the company. Through Choi there existed the possibility a whole new market to dominate. First, she just had to sell her on the product.

She decided to take upon herself to handle the consultation session personally, setting aside time from her schedule to do so. The company would survive without her direct management for a day, and she was always just a holo-call away.

Near the appointed time for their meeting, Ciana received word from her secretary of the arrival of Choi on the premises. She was in her office at the time, reviewing product notes, so it was a quick trip downstairs to the main floor via her personal elevator. She entered the lobby with no sort of enterouge, but was given a wide berth by all Panacea employees who recognized her. She was hard to miss, a tall (1.85 meters) woman with striking features that spoke of her mixed Atrisian and Echani heritage. Glassy blue eyes and alabaster skin paired with long locks that almost gleamed like polished brass under the skylights of the lobby.

Likewise, Choi was easy to pick out, the image of her face now committed to memory. As for the pair behind her, their stance and build just screamed military to the trained eyes of the Spacy veteran. Bodyguards were to be expected when dealing with a VIP, so Ciana didn't miss a beat as she returned her gaze to Choi, a smile breaking out on her face as she came near.

"Miss Choi, I am Ciana Teigra, CEO of Panacea," she started, offering a hand. "I know it was quite a long trip getting here, so I would like to thank you for choosing Panacea."

[member="Marzena Choi"]

 

[Marzena Vaas]

Marzena had been admiring her manicure when she spotted movement on the other side of the lobby caught her attention. She looked up to see a rather stunning woman approaching. The celebrity had enough pride in her appearance that she had no issues admitting when another woman was attractive. Although she was not threatened, she did take a moment to size the other woman up. Marzena noted immediately that she must be a respected (or feared) figure of authority here, as people seemed to scatter before her. With such delicate features, she could easily have been a model. Marzena was average height, and even with the help of her 120mm heels she knew she wouldn’t match that of the other woman. If not for her abundance of self-confidence, she probably would have been a bit envious.

Today Marzena had chosen to wear a long maxi-dress with a stylish pattern, the hem brushed lightly against the floor as she stood up. She had completed her look with a knit shrug and strappy sandals that featured a high heel, but not quite as high as the stilettos she normally favored. Her dark tresses were styled in a simple up-do that was purposely left looking a bit undone, a few strands of hair left free to frame her face. Her breezy ensemble and natural makeup might have given the impression that she was expecting to jet away on a luxurious resort weekend. She tucked her designer clutch bag under her arm as she stepped forward to greet the CEO of Panacea.

“Thank you, Miss Teigra,” Marzena spoke with a warm smile, “Oh, the trip here was no trouble at all.”

She had been traveling more and more to the core worlds lately, mostly to visit New Aldera City. Marzena figured that she would likely swoop in to see [member="Claire Organa"], since she was out this way to make the most of her trip.

"I am excited to see what Panacea has to offer."

[member="Ciana Teigra"]

 

[Ciana Teigra]

"I'm glad to hear," she replied as she gave Choi a light shake. "Panacea has much to offer. I'll be showing you myself upstairs in my office. There's an adjacent waiting room where your friends can relax as we speak."

She let go of the other woman's hand and turned to walk toward the elevators, expecting Choi and her small entourage to follow. She didn't want Choi's bodyguards tracking through her office, so she opted to take a regular elevator to the floor of the office. As before, employees that recognized her kept their distance and waited around for other elevators to take. Ciana had a good reputation among her people as a pleasant boss, but few wanted to risk slipping up around the CEO of the company.

Her office was on the top floor of the building, which overlooked the entire campus, and the vast oceanfront beyond. Several artificial islands could be seen floating dotting the surface, many of them purpose built as large-scale hydroponic facilities. Panacea owned the all the ones closest to the campus, constructed to conduct a myriad of experiments within carefully regulated biomes. One was host to a spa resort, where clients could receive treatments while being pampered.

The floor itself was dominated by several large offices that belonged to some of the top executives of Panacea (and their army of aides), hers by far the largest with its own dedicated reception area. She stopped here, motioning for the bodyguards to remain. There were refreshments available at a small bar, and entertainment to be had with the built in holo-array in the corner.

((OOC: Her dress today is just like the avatar. <3))

[member="Marzena Choi"]

 

[Marzena Vaas]

"That sounds fabulous," her smile grew. Marzena had planned to ask her guards to remain in the lobby, even though they disliked it when attempted to order them around. Even though it was strange to move around always in the company of the armed men, she was growing used to it now, those that accompanied her did attempt to leave her with as much privacy as possible, but intrusions were unavoidable at times.

Marzena nodded as Ciana began to lead her towards the elevators, the sound of high heels clicking against the polished floor heralding their approach. As they came to the top floor of the building, Marzena walked close to the windows, taking in the view of the pristine campus and the glistening expanse of ocean below. She narrowed her gaze slightly, her eyes now on the islands floating gently upon the water, Marzena was quite impressed.

The rows of offices on Ciana's floor were a familiar sight, they reminded her very much of her father's company back home on Dargul. There was no doubt that the people that occupied these spaces were important. Once they reached the reception area near Miss Teigra's office, her guards nodded to her and took up places in view of the holo-array. They were probably thankful for a bit of entertainment while they waited.

As she stepped away with Ciana towards her office, Marzena began to speak in a casual tone, one reserved for peers.

"It is quite beautiful here on Kiribi," She smiled, "Perhaps I will stay and extra day just to explore."

She felt very comfortable here, and had she not been so at home on Bespin, she might have even considered making a move.

 

[Ciana Teigra]

"Thank you, we all try to keep our planet pristine. We're something of a tourist destination, in fact, so you wouldn't be in want for sites to explore. I'd be happy to show you a few myself after our consultation."

Behind her desk, she manipulated a series of controls with gestures in view of inbuilt photoreceptors, activating the rooms hologram system to bring up a series of large panes over the desktop. Each pane displayed the white and gold logo of Panacea.

"So, I would like to start our little session off with a simple question. How old do you think I am?"

[member="Marzena Choi"]

 

[Marzena Vaas]

“I would love that.” Marzena said with a bright smile, nodding to Ciana.

As Ciana moved behind her desk, Marzena took a seat on the opposite side, letting her legs cross one over the other. Her foot bobbed up and down slightly, almost as though it moved along to the beat of an imaginary song. The celebrity’s dark gaze followed Ciana’s hand, watching as she prepared for their consultation. Marzena sat up straight in her chair as the Panacea logo emerged above the desk, highlighted brightly in their signature color. Her attention shifted as Ciana spoke, and she took a few moments to consider her question.

Marzena’s eyes were sharp when it came to matters of fashion, makeup, and vanity. However, as she began to hone in on the features of Ciana’s face, she found herself at a loss. The woman’s skin was clear and smooth, her eyes bright, her hair shiny and lustrous. Ms. Teigra’s composure and position seemed to speak to someone at least in her mid-twenties or beyond, but her appearance was very youthful. But she knew full well that looks could be very deceiving. Of course, she did not want to guess too far in the wrong direction and end up offending Ms. Teigra.

“I would venture to guess that you’re in your early twenties.” She said, tapping an index finger against her chin, her gaze narrowed just slightly.

[member="Ciana Teigra"]

 

[Ciana Teigra]

"47, but I'll take your guess as a compliment." She sat back in her chair, beaming from Marzena's answer.

Thanks to major medical advancements over the past few centuries, Kiribians had been able to maintain their youthful appearance well into their elderly years. Not only that but an increase in their longevity. It wasn't difficult to spot some lively centenarian out and about on the streets of Izrul. The daughter of the founder of Panacea had access to bleeding edge bio-technology that would keep her skin from receiving a single blemish or wrinkle.

"I'm sure that a woman such as yourself is familiar many of the cosmetic treatments available today, but the products and services offered by Panacea make all that look like child's play. True rejuvenation. Today, I'd like to go over some of the treatments that I use myself, and see what will work best for you."

[member="Marzena Choi"]

 

[Marzena Vaas]

Marzena’s red lips parted, unable to contain her complete astonishment. Her lashes fluttered a couple of times, eyes blinking in utter disbelief. Her gaze was still rather focused on Ciana’s face, but she looked down towards her lap for a moment as she shifted in her chair. After all, it was not polite to stare. But now it was hard not to stare, for Miss Teigra did not look her age... at all. Well, if Panacea’s treatments could truly produce those kind of results, they would have a new customer for sure.

“Yes, I am familiar with most of the well-known treatments.” She said with a nod, Marzena did have a skilled aesthetician back in Cloud City, but she had a feeling that the anti-aging treatments that she had received would not compare to the offerings of Panacea. Most of her own experiences were more catered towards masks, peels, and facial massage. She knew that these things probably did benefit her skin, but they would not turn back the clock. “Please, continue.” Marzena nodded eagerly.

She leaned forward in her chair, hands clasped gently upon her knees, ready to see the rest of Ciana’s presentation.

[member="Ciana Teigra"]

 

[Ciana Teigra]

Ciana nodded, then waved her hand to initiate her presentation. The holo-projectors shifted from the image of the Panacea logo to that of a perfect replica of Marzena herself in a standing position, biometrics collected from the photoreceptors in the office.

"Now, at the most basic levels, skincare has involved the use of cosmetics and other supplements to replace the loss of proteins responsible for keeping the skin smooth. Some procedures in the past even involved direct injections of collagen or even neurotoxins into the tissue, if you can believe that."

"A step above that is the use of membranes or laser therapy to increase the production of collagen and other proteins like elastin. This is the level at where Panacea begins offering services, coupled with kolto and nutrient regimes. The majority of our clientele are satisfied with the results. If you're up for it, then I'd be happy to provide you with a complimentary spot laser treatment today following our consultation."

"However, quite a few more require a solution that goes more than skin deep. It's not enough for them to merely have fresh skin, but a body to go with it. I think you're one such person. That is where we move into the cellular level, reversing telomere shortening in targeted application of enzyme activators, and stimulating Midi-clorians, promoting additional cell division beyond normal limits."

Part of the process she had just described involved methods devised from alchemy. It was something that set Kiribian technology apart from many of their contemporaries, melding the scientific and the occult together for amazing results.

"The most intensive treatments include gene therapy - making alterations to your DNA with one of our genetic templates. These templates have been developed from DNA samples of some of the finest physical and mental specimens in the galaxy. Not only will you look better, but feel better as well."

As she spoke about the procedures, the simulation of Marzena went through changes according to the procedures that she had mentioned. There were little to no changes that occurred with the more crude treatments, while the more advanced ones created major alterations to the rendering, shedding off a good ten years. That wasn't a coincidence. In the artist's line of work, young twenty-somethings enjoyed the most spotlight. Without physical samples, these projections were only educated guesses based off of live data from previous clients, but they would serve to give Marzena a good idea of what she would be signing up for.

"This is just a basic overview of our offerings. I can go into more detail into each treatment if you desire. So, what do you think?"

[member="Marzena Choi"]

 

[Marzena Vaas]

At the mention of collagen, a number of products came into Marzena’s mind. Of course, she had heard of the injections, but the very idea was not something that she found appealing. There were also some collagen peptide drinks out on the market, she had heard that they were somewhat effective and the effects were long-lasting. However, the notion of laser therapy sounded like a serious option that would produce the results she was looking for.

“Thank you, I would love to try the laser treatment.” She said with a smile, silently wondering if it would hurt much.

The celebrity’s brows rose at the notion of solutions that would enhance her body as well. She had to admit that the idea of keeping a youthful figure was attractive. After all, her appearance was such a large part of her fame and success. However, it all sounded very complicated, and Marzena could not even pretend to be familiar with such complex practices.

“Well, the idea of a better body is interesting. I would not be opposed to trying some of these treatments, short of the gene therapy – I’m not sure that I am ready for that.” She paused thoughtfully, looking over towards Ciana. “Forgive me, but it sounds a bit strange.”

Marzena offered a small smile to show that she was not completely put off, but the idea of receiving new DNA did seem a bit like something she would see in a holo-drama. Perhaps she just needed a bit more convincing...

“Why don’t we start with the less intensive treatments today?”

[member="Ciana Teigra"]

 

[Ciana Teigra]

Ciana nodded as Marzena voiced her reservations about the gene therapy. Disappointing for the scientist, as she always aimed to provide the full package.

"Excellent, I'll handle the laser treatment myself, and I'll schedule you for a spa visit this week. The regenerative cell procedure takes about a few hours, working from the skin on down into the bone and marrow. The procedure isn't painful, but you will feel soreness for several days, as if you just went through the most extreme workout of your life. Every single bit of tissue is stimulated."

"Now, if I could allay your concerns about the gene therapy, it's quite safe. This is a proven technique that has been utilized for millennia across the galaxy for correcting genetic defects and providing augmentations. The best results for gene treatment are seen in the embryonic stages when there are much fewer cells to replace, but gene therapy is still effective for adults too. The process just takes much longer, about a six months to a year to realize the full results."

"How it works is that we use a modified version of your original DNA, then introduced to cells by viral vector to make alterations and have these altered cell replicate. The neurons that form your nervous system are spared, however, so your mind will be left safely intact while your body goes through changes."

Panacea did engage in brain mapping and full prosthetic replacements, about the closest thing available to achieve virtual immortality. However, it was military grade technology still in the experimental stages, available to a select few. It had come straight from her mother to keep that technology from being introduced to the commercial market, much to her dismay. Her mother was a brilliant scientist, but she had always been too conservative with how she applied her developments.

"We modify your genetic code based off of templates I mentioned earlier. No new DNA is introduced into your body, so there's no splicing involved. What we do is use the template as a guide to unlock the potential already present within your own genetic code, to boost your immune system, and improve natural regenerative properties and longevity. In reality, we're not really changing you, but bringing out the best version of yourself."

She looked over at the projection of other more youthful looking Marzena, then back at her.

"What you see before you is no fiction. I'm living proof of that. I would never recommend a procedure that I wouldn't be willing to use myself. I'll be needing to take some blood samples as part of your medical exam before we begin the regenerative treatment, so if you would allow it, then I can test your cells to see how they take to our brand of gene therapy. It would be totally painless, and free of charge."

"...In fact," She started, clasping her hands and leaning forward in her seat. "I would like to offer every service free of charge."

[member="Marzena Choi"]

 

[Marzena Vaas]

Marzena’s fingers played with the fabric of her skirt, and she glanced up to [member="Ciana Teigra"] as she attempted to sooth her apprehensions about the gene therapy. She had to admit, it did not sound quite so bad the second time around. The notion of her body going through so many changes was still difficult to grasp, but like Ciana had said, it would be a gradual process. And she would not suddenly be a new person – just an improved version of what was already there. Her hands smoothed the fabric of her skirt out once more.

Her brows lifted slightly when Ms. Teigra offered the services free of charge, and she inclined her head thoughtfully.

Of course, cost was of little concern to Marzena. The fact that Panacea was willing to offer her complimentary treatments spoke to the confidence Ms. Teigra placed on their services. Marzena placed her hands on her knees, and leaned forward just slightly.

“Well, I must say,” She started, a smile growing on her face. “All of this is very new to me. However, I am willing to give it a try.”

Marzena offered Ciana a firm nod to signal that she would move forward with the treatments – all of them. She gently brushed her dark hair over her shoulder, moving to the edge of her seat. The scientific talk was still echoing in her mind, not that she understood most of it, the procedure sounded fairly complex.

“Shall we get started?”

[member="Ciana Teigra"]

 

[Ciana Teigra]

"Certainly, but I'll need to draw some blood and take a few swabs to test for any issues that may interfere with the full treatments. It's not necessary, but if you would be willing to share a copy of your medical records for review, then that would be most helpful."

She shut down the hologram as she had completed the presentation, then stood up from her desk, waving for Marzena to follow.

"If you'll follow me downstairs, we'll be going down to the lab for the samples, then to the spa to handle your laser treatment. All in all, this shouldn't take more than an hour."

"There's one more matter I'd like to discuss with you along the way.Pancea isn't very well known in your corner of space, but we would certainly like to expand within the space of the First Order. I would like you to become one of our spokesmen. I'd also like to seek a partnership with the Kingdom Group in some construction projects."

She had quietly following the progress of the company in a possible bid for acquisition, so she knew a little of their ventures in locations like Bespin. Cloud City had always been of interest to Kiribians, as Bespin stood as one of their chief competitors in the Tibanna business in that region. Establishing a storefront with Kingdom would make for a nice introduction into that market.

[member="Marzena Choi"]

 

[Marzena Vaas]

Dark eyes watched as the hologram faded, Marzena looked up in time to see [member="Ciana Teigra"] stand and motion for her to follow. She stood to her feet and took even strides after the other woman. The pop star nodded and offered Ciana a congenial smile as they started off towards the lab. Of course, no one liked to have their blood drawn, but it wouldn’t be that bad.

“Oh?” She canted her head to the side, listening as Ciana began to elaborate. Marzena was pleased to hear that Ciana had plans to expand Panacea’s reach into First Order space; there was certainly a market on their worlds. Her smile grew upon hearing Ciana mention a position as a spokesman, and a possible partnership with Kingdom Group. Could this day get any better?

“I am so very flattered, and I would love to become a spokesman for Panacea.” Marzena said, pressing her palms together beneath her chin. “And I know that my brother would be happy to work with you in terms of partnering with Kingdom Group. After all, we do have plans to open a new location in Cloud City.”

She drew in a breath and exhaled into a happy sigh. Kingdom Group was not only setting their plans in motion to construct their new location, but also to completely move their corporate headquarters there. Sebastian Choi would be taking the reigns of the company, allowing Marzena to step down from the position of Chief Executive. Of course, she would still be involved in the big picture, as a member of the board; her image would continue to be associated with Kingdom.

“Let’s plan to meet in a few months to go over the details.”

 

[Ciana Teigra]

"I would love that," she answered as she came around the desk to leave the room. It seemed like things were coming along quite nicely. Marzena wasn't the first pop star to come through her doors to satisfy their vanity, but she certainly had the best attitude of the lot. As a former Spacey officer, she couldn't stand dealing with those vapid fools.

Back outside of the office, and Marzena's bodyguards would be there to join the pair on the way down to the lab on the elevator. The floor looked very much like a standard clinic, fully trained medical staff all about. She checked in with the receptionist of the floor for an empty room to conduct the blood draw, having the guards wait there in the lobby.

"Here we are," she said, the lights coming on in the room as the motion activated door slid open. She motioned for Marzena to sit back on an exam chair while she looked for a kit.

"Cloud City. I think I visited Bespin once or twice before as a girl. I don't remember having too much fun, though, I was much too young to enjoy much of the recreation level."

[member="Marzena Choi"]

 

[Marzena Vaas]

Marzena followed along, her guards resumed their place at her heels. Soon, they arrived at the lab and the songstress took in her new surroundings – everything was spotless, including the figures that moved about in white coats. It was quite impressive. Marzena waved her guards away; the two men silently stepped off to the side to wait.

The two women entered the exam room; the lights flickered on to greet them. Marzena nodded and took her place in the chair, trying not to think about needles or test tubes filled with blood. She smiled as Ciana mentioned Cloud City, instantly feeling the tension melt away. Distractions were good.

“I really love it there.” After all, it was one of the reasons she had chosen to live in First Order space. “I’ll let you know once things are settled, and you can come visit our new space.” Marzena knew that she might be getting ahead of herself; they still had to present the idea to the board. But if anyone could convince them it was the right move, it was Sebastian.

“I think the market there is perfect for Panacea. I mean, we do have quite a lot of day spas...” She had frequented many, “But none offer services like this. I’m sure it would be well received.”

[member="Ciana Teigra"]