Penny's WIPs

[Natasi Fortan]

PICTURED: Imperial Palace (center) and Capital Complex (foreground), and uptown (background)​

Name: Avalonia

Image Source: Album artwork from Dream Theater's "The Astonishing"

Classification: Urban Center

Location: Dosuun

Affiliation: First Order

Population: Urban Center

Demographics: 98% Human, 2% assorted aliens

Points of Interest:
Imperial Palace & Capitol Complex - Seat of the Supreme Leader's government, including the Moff Council, and the First Order parliament, as well as the ministry offices for the cabinet Moffs. Includes offices for the Supreme Commander, General Vaas, and the Grand Moff and other Moffs. The Capitol Complex also hosts Embassy Row, office space for the bureaucracy, a military base, and lush outdoor gardens. The Capitol Complex and Imperial Palace were designed in part by Natasi Fortan, and as such, fountains dot the landscape and buildings, so that the tranquil sounds of rushing water are audible almost anywhere in the district. Within the Capitol Complex, there are large, broad plazas which are used as public gathering areas during important times -- Empire Day, inaugurations, etc.

Victory & Memorial Park - Located at the center of the exclusive residential downtown district, this large, verdant park is dedicated in part as a public space and in part as a memorial garden celebrating the victorious dead of the First Order's expansionary campaigns. The large building extending with a circular chamber towards the center is the First Order Memorial Center, which has been commissioned as an exhibition center for art honoring the memory of First Order soldiers.

The Garden District - Situated on the western side of the city, the Garden District of Avalonia showcases a respect for the natural beauty in which the capital was built. Here, the architects were given more of a free reign to design as they wished. The result was smaller buildings, spaced out among intersecting boulevards and broad park spaces. The architecture is lighter, airier, less uniform. Here, as much as anywhere else in the city, the presence of running water is present in fountains and trickling aqueducts. The area is known for its independent boutiques, theater, and art.

Equilibriate Temple - Located in a the northern end of the city, with the mountains of Dosuun in the backdrop, is the Equilibriate Temple -- a place of meditation and worship for the small but growing number of followers of the Cosmic Balance, a religion that has come somewhat into vogue thanks to the influence of Natasi Fortan. The building was constructed from the blueprints of the temple built in the town of Herevan as Natasi's father's wedding gift for his new bride.

Number 10, Park Boulevard - Situated just south of Victory & Memorial park, across the broad Park Boulevard, is Number 10, Park Boulevard, the neoclassical mansion that serves as the official residence of the First Order's Grand Moff. The building was designed to serve as a place to host foreign visitors and government functions. Until the creation of a Grand Moff, the residence stands empty except when it is used for an official government function.

Spaceport District - Build into the cliffs at the southeast side of the city is the Dosuun Municipal Spaceport, which sees the bulk of the travel and cargo traffic in and out of the city. The spaceport also hosts a small military garrison.

Description: Avalonia is a beautiful and impressive city, built with the aesthetics and moral values of the First Order at the front of mind. While it is a city with all the modern conveniences -- underground transport, utilities, etc. -- it is distinctly classical in style. Instead of chrome and glass and modernism, its construction is in masonry and metals. The streets are laid out in an orderly fashion, and clear signs are provided to allow the free flowing of traffic. The streets are broad, lined with lights and trees, with green spaces and plazas dotting the city blocks. Air lanes are clearly labeled and patrolled, and propaganda speakers and billboards and marquees are placed across the city, reminding the citizens that loyal citizens are happy citizens.

History: Upon the First Order's conquest of Dosuun, Natasi Fortan -- then a First Order Commissioner -- was charged by the Supreme Leader with construction of a capital city for his new Empire. She was given more or less free reign over the design and construction of the city, in conjunction with budget priorities of the military and territorial expansion. The city grew gradually, first beginning with prefabricated structures that were phased out as permanent structures were built. As the First Order conquered more territory, resources became more freely available, and the city grew more quickly, until shortly after the conquest of Thakwaa, a ceremony was announced to officially dedicate the city.

Intent: To establish the First Order's capital city and its attendant roleplaying locations.

Links: N/A

 

[Natasi Fortan]

​

Key points (flesh out later)

• State-sponsored Tinder-type app using government data (medical files, personnel records, etc.) to determine compatibility between beauty, optimal genetic matching, etc. Individuals classed into groups based on beauty, genetics, class, education.
• Tax incentives for marriage and children, to scale with number of children.
• Pre-natal and infant care involves mandatory genetic testing.
• Parents of infants who show key genetic markers for martial talent and/or Force sensitivity are offered generous stipends by the State to relinquish them to State custody for training from an early age.
• First Order soldiers encouraged to visit Army-run comfort barracks (staffed by volunteers only) regularly; children from these visits are wards of the State, and those that are not genetically suitable for armed service are reassigned elsewhere.
• Those with undesirable genetic traits are discouraged from mating (in extreme cases, medically sterlized)
• Benefits: strengthen genetic base in First Order; lower medical costs due to improved overall health;
• Propaganda stuff - posters, whatnot.

 

[Natasi Fortan]

 

[Natasi Fortan]

MARZENA CHOI
LIFE, LOVE & LIPSTICK

Marzena Choi.

The name brings to mind different things for different people.

"She's, like, my favorite singer of all time! Marzena is, like, absolutely wizard," gushes Lucette van Kamp, aged 13, of Dosuun.

"A dedicated and conscientious citizen of the First Order," declares Benton Hofstetter, First Order Deputy Minister of Culture. "And a wonderful addition to our team as a cultural ambassador."

Moff Natasi Fortan, who met with Marzena Choi following the summit at Bespin recently, offered her unique analysis: "Ms. Choi is the example of what is best in the First Order. She has taken her talents -- as an entrepeneur, as an entertainer, and as a communicator -- and put them at the service of the First Order for the benefit of us all. I'm just delighted to be working with her." Ms. Sioux Chambers, who also met Marzena Choi briefly praised her as "a pop singer -- no further comment."

We caught up with Marzena in Cloud City for an exclusive sit-down interview, where we quizzed her on her thoughts on our fair city, her beauty secrets, her thoughts on the First Order, and more -- including the most-requested questions we received: her signature shade of lipstick! Read on:

Q: I almost can't believe I'm sitting across from the Marzena Choi, celebrated songstress! Thank you for taking the time, especially since you've been so busy. It seems like you are all over the place these days -- if there's a First Order function, your name is usually attached. Is there something besides geography that draws you to the First Order? What about the First Order's philosophy speaks to you, personally?
A: Well, Cloud City really is the place to be -- but there is an appeal that extends beyond the luxuries of Bespin. I was attracted to the high culture that the First Order brings to each of their worlds. As a citizen of the First Order, I am proud to be a part of such a superior society.

Q: This may seem trivial, but I've received so many requests to ask this question from the girls back in the office. You're widely regarded as one of the most beautiful women this side of the core. Can you share any of your beauty secrets? What is your go-to brand for makeup products? Do you have a signature lipstick color?
I am always testing out new products, but I have some brands that I keep in my daily rotation: Aritaum, Swulghasoo, IOPE, just to name a few. One of my new favorites is Quaint Gardens Beauty. I am very excited with my upcoming collaboration with Alize Rosenheim. I am a firm believer that you can never underestimate the power of red lipstick -- it's bold, chic, and classic. While I do have many favorites, I absolutely love CoCo Rouge Pur Courture, No. 52.

Q: You recently gave a concert at a summit right here on Cloud City, but we've heard rumors that you were spotted after the summit with a high-ranking member of the First Order's government, and since then sources at the Palace confirm you're involved in a project with the government, but they declined to confirm. What can you tell us about this meeting, and can you describe your plans for your continued involvement with the First Order?
A: Aesthetics can influence attitude -- it is a belief that I have taken to heart. As I worked with members of the First Artists Guild, I began to learn that there is much we can do to show our support for the First Order. We may not be soldiers, but we are in a unique position to promote our ideals and way of life.

I can tell you that I did meet with Moff Fortan after the summit, and we have been discussing some exciting opportunities concerning establishing a comission for arts and culture. Our first potential project would be to assist with dedicating a space for a memorial museum in Avalonia. I am very pleased with the progress we have made so far, and ever so grateful for Moff Fortan's assistance. It would not be possible without her.

As a cultural ambassador, I do hope to be very involved with the high art movement here in Cloud City, and other First Order worlds as well.

Q: Now, the tentative title of our article is "Life, Love, and Lipstick." We've covered life and lipstick -- now we just need love. I'm sure you're aware of the rumors swirling around you -- we certainly are. Who's this mystery man -- or is it all made up by less-reputable publications than our own? Do you even have time for a personal life with your busy schedule?
A: There have always been rumors about my love life, and I expect that there always will be. It is simply something that I have learned to live with.

There you have it -- she may not have been willing to spill all her secrets, but at least now we know some of the most-sought-after information about her beauty routine. Regular readers of the Cloud City Chronicle will certainly recognize the brands Marzena Choi mentioned in her interview, but we expect a run on the products she identified very soon -- particularly CoCoRouge Pur Couture, No. 52.

We spoke briefly with Moff Fortan relating to the memorial museum, and she echoed Ms. Choi's comments: "This is a project very near to my heart, and I am so pleased to be working with Ms. Choi. It is rare to encounter someone who has talent, taste, and empathy -- normally you're lucky to get two of three -- and rarer still to encounter someone with all three plus consideration. I see no limit to what Ms. Choi can achieve in her role as a cultural ambassador in the First Order."

Whether in performing arts, society, or the First Artists Guild, it looks like Marzena Choi's star will burn bright into the future.

​

​

PERENNIAL
TEA FOR TWO OR TWO HUNDRED

Ask anyone on Bespin where to go for an afternoon full of the refined delights of afternoon tea, and you're bound to get the same answer: "Perennial." So iconic and universally recognized is Perennial that it has become the standard by which other establishments are measured -- and consequently, are often found lacking. We took a tour of the establishment with the general manager, Ikor Minkut, who glowed with pride at the recognition -- and admiration! -- his establishment has recently garnered.

"Naturally it's a real honor to be recognized. Our staff put a lot of effort into making sure each guests enjoys the perfect experience -- whether they've come in for a quick cup of tea and lunch, or whether they are here to enjoy the afternoon tea experience -- so it's a real lift to their spirits, and mine, to see a lot of return customers and word-of-mouth. It means we're doing something right," says Minkut.

When we question him about the different options for tea, Minkut explains the capacity of Perennial. "Whether it's tea for two or two hundred, each guest gets the same top-of-the-line, white-glove experience from our highly trained staff. And we are also expanding our tea to incorporate different tea traditions. For instance, one group's tea service might not be the same as another group's, so it's important to us that we recognize the unique contributions of each culture within the First Order."

While walk-ins during breakfast and lunch hours are encouraged, Minkut cautions that potential guests for afternoon tea should call ahead for a reservation. "We get very busy for afternoon tea and, for heaven's sake, there's only so many scones our poor bakers can turn out in one day. We hate to have people make a special trip and be disappointed to find that our tables are full up or we've run out of something."

Perennial has played host to the many high-profile individuals in its day. During a tour of the Kuat Royal Ballet, the entire company had tea there, and more recently, Moff Natasi Fortan and Marzena Choi were spotted meeting there following the First Order summit at Bespin. "We've played host to some of the cream of Bespin and First Order society," says Minkut. "And we hope to continue that going forward.

NEXT STOP: LUXURY
ON THE LIPSTICK EXPRESS


Star Tours is the premiere travel agency in First Order space -- and more than that, regionally. Many famous faces have been spotted embarking and disembarking from Star Tours vessels. One of the most innovative concepts developed by Dunames Lopez, the visionary leader of Star Tours, is the Lipstick Express, an inclusive luxury tour that ferries shoppers on a luxurious journey to the Kartika SuperMall on Lipsec.

Emelanda Starky, a socialite living on Dosuun, utilizes the Lipstick Express at least monthly. "Oh it's beautiful," says Emelanda. "Sometimes you want something you can't find on Dosuun -- sometimes you don't necessarily want to go to some small boutique or your dressmaker. It's ever so convenient -- you just hop a flight to Lipsec and you're there. It doesn't get any easier than that!"

While the Lipstick Express is geared towards such fineries as cosmetics, clothing, and fashion accessories, the destination -- Kartika SuperMall -- features a wider range than that, from sporting goods to personal defense, from housewares to gardening supplies. Says Lopez: "You want people at all levels to come to Lipsec and to be fashionable whatever the budget they have."

Star Tours public relations had this to say: "Star Tours introduces the perfect shopping getaway. Now it's your turn to become tthe most fashionable person in the galaxy, with all the cosmetics, haute couture, and other fashion accessories you can possible dream about. Or, if you prefer, learn about the fashion of a thousand generations at the Galactic Cosmetics Museum. Just ask for the Lipstick Express. Visit Lipsec today!"

And the results have just been good for Star Tours!

Revenues at the Kartika SuperMall are up 18% since the first flight of the Lipstick Express, and rumor has it that the First Order is looking to encourage other areas of economic significance within First Order space. The retail spaces on Bespin, with their flashy couture, and the more individualized, boutique retail experiences on Dosuun reflect just two of the different cultures in the First Order's shopping style. And with both Bespin and Dosuun featuring extensive cultural offerings -- museums, theaters, memorials, etc. -- offering vacation packages with well-rounded offerings is expected.

GRAND OPENING
THE BELL CENTER FOR ARTS & CULTURE

Opening recently with great fanfare was the Bell Cneter for Arts & Culture, a stunning, modern structure designed to showcase the best of the best of the First Order's most talented artists. The first floor features five small galleries and shops that represent First Order artists, and visitors are welcome between 1100 and 1800 daily. These galleria are available for rent by artists and other creative types, so the exhibits are subject to change.

The Chapman Theater features a large lobby, usedfor a rotating display of visual arts. The theater has a large seating capacity, making it a popular location for large meetings, lectures, and other large-capacity gatherings. The theater features a holoprojector and stage, making it a location suited to concerts, theater productions, film, and other events. The space is available to rent for special events; contact the management for further details.

The largest space in the Bell Center is also reserved for the most prestigious art displays. The Weaver Gallery & Ballroom functions as an event space, suitable for fundraising evnets, dances, and other large social events. The management cautions that the room is available to rent, but comes with a high damage deposit.

In addition, the Bell Center, under the guidance of the First Order Arts and Culture Commission has sought to expand outreach, including an Art and Wine Walk during the spring and summer seasons, as well as the patriotic Citizen Artist and Cultural Ambassador programs. Perhaps the most famous proponent of these outreach programs is Marzena Choi, galactic pop star and First Order Cultural Ambassador. Inquiries into these programs my be directed to the First Order Arts and Culture Commission, of which there is a branch office in Cloud City.

Citizens are invited to partake in the offerings of the Bell Center often, as the offerings do change.

 

[Aram Kalast]

Very interesting...

 

[Natasi Fortan]

Very interesting...

Ludolf made me do it.

Unless you think it's brilliant, in which case it was all me

 

[Aram Kalast]

Oh I think it is brilliant. Naturally I am expecting the First Order to expect that Aram is the perfect specimen of our belief.

Basically I think that the First Order having an 'Aryan' style project is perfect, it will really emphasis what we do.

[member="Natasi Fortan"]

 

[Natasi Fortan]

Oh I think it is brilliant. Naturally I am expecting the First Order to expect that Aram is the perfect specimen of our belief.

Basically I think that the First Order having an 'Aryan' style project is perfect, it will really emphasis what we do.

[member="Natasi Fortan"]

We're sending [member="Aram Kalast"] to the breeding camps. Don't forget your toothbrush.

 

[Ludolf Vaas]

THIS IS AWESOME!!!!! Well done Natasi!

 

[Natasi Fortan]

​

T H E F I R S T G R A N D M O F F​

IN AN EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW, NATASI FORTAN OUTLINES HER AMBITIOUS AGENDA, HER POLITICAL SENSIBILITIES, AND WHAT "SERVANT LEADERSHIP" MEANS TO HER​

​

After spending many years as the most public face of the First Order and its government, Natasi Fortan has finally been appointed to a role that most in the First Order thought she possessed already: the coveted office of the Grand Moff. Long considered the First Order's best public relations tool, the newly minted Grand Moff was fêted in imperial style yesterday following her public appointment, broadcast across the First Order's empire, wherein the Supreme Leader himself, in a rare public appearance, praised Fortan's "merits and qualifications" before appointing her his governmental right hand. Fortan thanked the Supreme Leader for his confidence and pledged to all First Order citizens that her "whole life, whether it is long or short... will be dedicated to your service, and to the service of the Supreme Leader."

Fortan, known in Ministerial circles as something of a dry workhorse, was long tipped for the role. Says Petyr Calinda, Minister of Culture, "We all thought it was a matter of when, rather than if. She has been here since the beginning and, until recently, was really the sin qua non of His Leadership's government. I think I speak for all my Ministerial colleagues when I say we're all pleased to support her in the difficult job that lies ahead of her, managing the expansion of the First Order's borders and the assimilation of new peoples and cultures into our growing Imperial family."

Moff Fortan greeting admirers after a visit
to the Avalonia Veterans Hospital

The concept of an "Imperial family" is one of Fortan's guiding principles, according to Calinda. "There's very much a sense that we're all in this together -- that we'll all sink or we'll all swim -- not just in the cabinet but across the First Order. Dosuun cannot stand alone any more than Bespin or Skye. The efforts of all member worlds are required for the First Order to work properly. She sees herself as a sort of coordinator of this effort. Every system has resources unique to them, whether they be labor or materials or chemicals or what have you. Every system, every planet, can contribute in its own way, and support the larger goal of upholding the needs of the First Order. She speaks of the Supreme Leader as our Imperial Father so I suppose, in a way, that makes her our Imperial Mother."

Calinda pauses. "Better make that Imperial Older Sister."

What goes into the making of an Imperial Mother (or Older Sister)? Biographical details on Natasi Fortan are sparse; she has always maintained that she is not the story, but rather the First Order's agenda -- it's mission, to spread safety, security, peace, and Human High Culture -- should be the focus. But we do know that the Grand Moff was born Lady Natasi Josephine Fortan, the eldest daughter of Frejrik Fortan, Earl of Hervan (a county on Galidraan), and Reima Esperell, the daughter of a wealthy industrialist on Bakura, from whom Natasi took her religious beliefs in the Cosmic Balance. She had an older brother, Mathes, and a younger sibling who died in childbirth with her mother. Mathes, a skilled and decorated fighter pilot for the One Sith, was killed in combat, leaving the secession of the family estate in question.

Fortan, by the time of her brother's death a midlevel bureaucrat in the One Sith empire, became steadily disillusioned with the One Sith's style of leadership, and resigned her position, leaving the One Sith with Ludolf Vaas, First Order hero and Field Marshall. Together, they came to be early followers of the Supreme Leader, and shaped the direction of the First Order from fledgling group of Imperialists to a galactic power and regional economic powerhouse. The Supreme Leader and his three most loyal lieutenants have since worked together to expand the First Order's reach and influence, an effort spearheaded by Fortan's celebrated Bespin Summit early this year, when several contracts for investment in First Order space drove consumer confidence through the roof. Resulting construction and other investments have nearly eliminated the unemployment rate, ushering in an era of prosperity not seen in First Order space since before the Plague Years.
Now, as she embarks on a new role, Fortan has agreed to be interviewed for this special commemorative, inaugural edition of the Palace Insider.

Q: Grand Moff, congratulations on your ascension to this new position, and thank you for taking the time to sit with us. What was it like for you to receive this promotion. Can you describe the process and how you felt yesterday?
A: Thank you very much. It's almost hard to believe for me, even now, that the Supreme Leader has the kind of confidence in my work that would lead to me being appointed essentially head of his government. Of course, one tries one's best every day, but this sort of recognition is... well, it's very intense, I'll just say that. But as for the process -- as I understand it, the vetting process begins months in advance. There is a very stringent background check before your name is even officially considered, and so it's very involved. But I found out about a week ago when I was summoned to an audience with the Supreme Leader and he asked me if I would consider it.

Moff Fortan, pictured with Avalonia Commissioner
Greye Malvarn at the Dosuun Horseracing Competition

Q: And you said yes.
A: Of course, yes. It's not -- look, it's not an ambition thing for me. It's easy for me to say, "Of course, yes," as if I was grasping for it all along, but truly it wasn't a bit like that. To be frank, I said yes because the Supreme Leader asked me and I felt that I could serve him, and you, and every citizen of the First Order, in this way.

Q: You're the first Grand Moff in this order. How does that make you feel?
A: It's a lot of pressure, to be sure. I'm very conscious that my term in office will set a precedent for the Grand Moffs that will come after me. I hope to do the right thing not only for Supreme Leader but to keep things moving along the right path for future leaders of His Leadership's government. I know there are some in the First Order that find me ... fastidious, let's say, to avoid using terms like "overbearing" [laughter]. But it's really not out of a sense of self-promotion. I just feel a deep responsibility to future generations to start as we mean to go on.

Q: You seem to place a lot of emphasis on the idea of yourself as a leader. Can you expand on that?
A: The notion of "servant leadership" is very close to my heart. It is related to the concept of noblesse oblige. Your readers may not be aware that I was born to an aristocratic family on Galidraan. And my father, who was a remarkably conscientious man, drilled into my brother and I that nobility and privilege were bought and paid for by service to the community and to the people who might not be as fortunate, whether through philanthropy or public service or in other ways. Rank has privilege, of course, but it also demands something in return, which is to be a positive force in your community.

And that's how I see my role as Grand Moff. Yes, I am the head of government, but my intention is to use this position as a two-way airlane. On one side, I will implement the wishes and vision of the Supreme Leader on the territories we hold. On the other side, I want to take the wishes and hopes, the insecurities and the needs of the people to the Supreme Leader. We are of one mind when it comes to caring for his subjects and doing everything in our power to improve their lives. This is how we will build a stronger First Order.

Q: Do you have an agenda in mind for your term in office? What are your top goals?
A: Obviously the safety and security of every First Order world is my top priority. Everything I do will be with that in mind. And naturally, the First Order is not finished expanding its boundaries. There are many, many more systems around us that could certainly benefit from the First Order's influence. During my Empire Day remarks, I promised to expand the First Order's territorial holdings threefold -- a goal which we are very close to meeting already. But it's not territory for territory's sake -- this sort of blind expansion, expansion for the sake of it, is foolish. We are choosing our movements based on security requirements, economic concerns, and cultural compatibility -- whether the citizens of the system or planet in question would be a good fit for the First Order.

I also understand that the First Order needs space to live and grow. I will be working very closely with the First Order Colony & Settlement Office to ensure that we are making the right moves in terms of land parcels and supply schedules and security for our new, fledgling colonies.

Moff Fortan, an avid horsewoman, pictured with Murray Dedd,
the manager of her horse, Emerald, stabled on Dosuun

Of course I also want to connect early and often with our military commanders, so I can be sure that our budget priorities are meeting their needs. We'll need to really budget and prioritize so that every one of our goals is prioritized properly. Certainly the top of my list is ensuring that the equipment that we are providing our men and women in combat is top of the line, reliable, and effective.

But one thing I'm very excited about is actually the tour I'm leaving on in a few days. I have a few more loose ends to tie up, a promotion ceremony to oversee, but after that I am leaving on a tour of the First Order, so that I can meet people from all across this nation, from every walk of life, and really listen to their concerns and thoughts. I will spend my life learning about the people I serve and I intend to start that as soon as possible.

Q: You seem to be very team-oriented; your speeches tend to emphasize collaboration and drawing strength from one another. Who do you draw strength from?
A: Well -- I have a very competent staff in my office, and they all do really oustanding work, and of course I draw so much inspiration from the Supreme Leader. He is a remarkable man, a true visionary. Of course my cabinet colleagues -- Minister Santagar, Minister Fel, Minister Calinda, others -- I couldn't do the job I do without the very robust support system that they provide.

Q: And is there a "robust support system" at home -- in your personal life?
A: I -- well, look -- my role as Grand Moff in the First Order is a very public one, and I understand that there are questions about my personal life. I know that people want to know me, but I try to keep my private life private. I'm sure there is very little that would interest the average person.

Q: But you must do something to unwind, de-stress, after all your position must be very demanding.
A: [After a hesitation] I... sometimes see friends for dinner or drinks, or go to the ballet. But honestly, I find my job energizing, not draining. I love coming to work every day and I hate to leave. There's so much to do, every day. I would work all day if I could, but even I need to sleep occasionally. [Laughter] No -- work is -- if not easy, then possible. Social life, personal life -- almost never so tidy.

Q: I know what you've said about keeping your private life private, but think of this as a broader, general question.
A: I'm going to regret agreeing to this interview, aren't I? [Laughter] All right, go on then.

Q: Do you think a woman can be a good Grand Moff as well as a good wife and mother?
A: [Laughter] I'll brush aside the fact that I've never heard such a question asked of a man because I recognize that there are certain intrinsic differences between the sexes and the maternal instinct can be more powerful than ambition. But yes, I absolutely believe that these roles are not mutually exclusive. Things have a way of working themselves out, don't they? You just have to work at it. But my top priority will be the First Order, unless and until the Supreme Leader recalls me from my position.

Q: Thank you, Grand Moff, and again, congratulations.
A: Thank you. Do come along on the tour, I'm sure we'll encounter many fascinating things of interest to your readers.

 

[Natasi Fortan]

**WIP**

The First Order is a fascist regime headquartered in Avalonia, Dosuun. The Head of State is the Supreme Leader, Sieger Ren. The Head of Government is the Grand Moff, Natasi Fortan. The Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces is the Supreme Commander, Ludolf Vaas. The Supreme Commander and the Grand Moff, together with other hand-picked advisers, form an advisory council to the Supreme Leader. On paper, the Supreme Leader is the ultimate authority on any matter, however, in practice, the Grand Moff and the Supreme Commander, and their advisers, work in partnership to run the nation.

Government policy is determined by the Grand Moff and the government structure. This includes, but is not limited to, laws and regulations, expansionary strategy, the budget, infrastructure concerns, national security policy, foreign policy, etc. The First Order Security Bureau, the First Order Diplomatic Corps, as well as other agencies and departments that develop and execute policy based on the agenda set by the Grand Moff -- in some circumstances, but not always, in consultation with the Supreme Commander.

Executives in the government control planetary defense forces and police forces, but are not involved in the First Order's military apparatus. The exception is the incapacity or unavailability of a proper military authority, in which case Prefects/Moffs and the Grand Moff could step in notionally following a declaration of emergency by the Supreme Leader.

Military policy is determined by the Supreme Leader and the military establishment. This includes, but is not limited to, rank structures, military strategy, and the dispensation of the military budget. The military is represented in government by the Minister of Defense, a Moff council position that serves as a liaison between the two entities. The Minister of Defense advocates on behalf of the military when it comes to to budget time and laws and projects relating to the military.

CULTURE

The First Order is a conservative culture, steeped in nationalist patriotism and hero worship, primarily of the Supreme Leader, but cults of personality for political and military leaders are subtly encouraged by hagiographic coverage in the state-run media. For instance, the media strategy employed by the Ministry of Culture & Heritage during the time of the nation's first Grand Moff, Natasi Fortan, almost immediately upon her accession to office, sought to promote the already-existent image of her as a conscientious workhorse, additionally taking advantage of her oratorical skills, personable qualities, and attractive and stylish image to cast her as a glamorous populist. This allowed Fortan to act not only as chief spokesperson of the First Order, but also chief salesperson, using her skills to gain the public's approval on policies that might otherwise have been unpopular -- taxes, conscription, etc. A similar strategy is employed in the military where the Supreme Commander is concerned, also executed by the purview of the Ministry of Culture & Heritage.

Beyond the nation's leadership, the First Order State Media also glorifies and celebrates the accomplishments of the military as well as the government, in an effort to connect the public with these entities. A lot of time and effort is spent forging an emotional connection between people and military/government establishment. Military service, particularly by young men, is strongly encouraged by the state educational system and media, to the point where able-bodied young men who have not 'done their duty' are often seen as strange, odd, or selfish. Exceptions for those unfit for service and women are extended, however all citizens are expected to contribute of themselves towards the Empire -- through military service, work in an industry related to defense or government, or volunteer efforts.

 

[Natasi Fortan]