Too much Ship....

[Corruck Kazen]

Location: Recalcitrant over Praesitlyn​

Characters: Corruck Kazen, Crew of Recalcitrant, and scientists of ReCal​

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Corruck stopped dead in his tracks, he hoped that he had not heard what he thought he had. "Corruck!" Oh no..... Corruck turned on his heel back to the older man walking towards him.

The man was of a somewhat larger build than Corruck, at least larger in the middle than Corruck had kept himself. Even though the man was almost a head shorter than Corruck, Corruck was somewhat intimidated by the man's stare. Of course, this was not because the man was intimidating so much as the fact that Corruck knew what was coming... "Corruck, your blasted crew member, the little girl, has messed with our latest blaster. I demand that she be reprimanded at once."

"Yes I know. We have gone through this once or twice alr...."

"And nothing has been done! If this continues my men will need to spend time sealing off the areas we are working in. That would mean an incredible decrease in efficiency. While you may be fine with that, I am not."

Corruck held back the sigh that threatened to escape him. "Alright. I will find a solution. Maybe we can find a suitable compromise."

"I should hope so." With that the man walked briskly away. He disappeared around a corner heading towards the cargo hold the scientists were using to make technology for ReCal.

Corruck fell back until he rested against the wall, still standing. He rubbed his hands over his eyes. "Brilliant....There is absolutely no way there will be a compromise that will satisfy Nothy." He began to walk away, knowing that he would need to rest to figure this out.

As he neared the stairs, Corruck always preferred stairs to turbolifts when possible and convenient, he turned to make sure no one was following, specifically the leader of the scientists. He took the first few steps, then stopped he heard some yelling. Then he heard a loud crash...Corruck knew that he did not want to know...So he bolted up the stairs and hoped that the leader wouldn't find him before Corruck got to his room.

In a few moments, he was at the top of the stairs. He was nearly safe! He slipped into his room and closed the door shut. He hoped that in the next few minutes there would be no interruptions. To that end, he locked the door and faced towards the bed. Clean and inviting, Corruck was tempted to leave the problem and sleep on it. But he knew there would only be so much before the scientists were fed up with Nothy. While her pranks and tricks were mostly amusing, the scientist hardly found it so. He had hoped they would figure out a way to work alongside her somewhat problematic behavior.

He walked back and forth, between the bed and the door. His pacing was kept to a precise timed footfall, without his knowledge. He had of course trained himself to keep a good march and precise walking pattern, in case of his need to go undercover in the more strict factions in the galaxy. But he rarely enjoyed using those steps, they seemed cold and hard, never showing one person for who he was. But Corruck had trained it so deep that it became a habit when he was not thinking.

"So at last the loggerheads have collided and there is little I can do but watch. Nothy will simply not stop messing about with those people, and those people will simply not stop complaining about her interference. Solution? Jettison both parties? No, while a practical solution, one without proper results. Jettison one of the parties? No, a solution with a positive result on one side, but still a negative on the other. Jettison myself?.....Maybe....Would certainly stop all the voices.....Okay that is it. No more of that. Get you mind together." At that moment he heard a sharp knocking on his door. Praying it was not the scientists he yelled, "Sorry, I am not available at the moment!"

A deep male voice returned almost instantly, "Well then. Will the useless droid taking the message please tell the captain when he awakes that I am available when he needs to talk."

Corruck smiled. "Message received, I'll let him know when he is about ready to get up off his sorry back side."

"Very good. And tell him there will be some food to test once he is in the galley."

Corruck walked over to the door and opened it. Nobody was there. "Of course not. Never is. He's always in the galley, yet always manages to let me know when I need him." Sometimes he thought that Karneth did that just to show off. But in his heart Corruck knew better. Karneth was fairly pleasant to talk to, but rarely understandable. He would have to go see him. The galley as usual, hopefully this time the food would be something at least mildly edible. The last time it had been some delicacy from Mon Calamari, made Corruck almost retch from the smell.

 

[Corruck Kazen]

Fortunately, slipping his way to the galley, was easier than trying to slip to his room. The galley was one of the farthest areas from the cargo hold being used by the scientists this time, and by the sound of the people running up the stairs he was safe for now. Nothy must have done quite a number on them to get them this agitated. "As if she hasn't done enough already. Does she ever take a break?" He bet the answer was no.

Down a separate flight of stairs, a long hallway without enough cover, and a close call through the outer preparation room. Corruck now found himself inside the galley. It was filled with the smells of different foods, some cooking, some being diced, and some.... some having something done to them he really did not want to see. Sometimes Corruck wondered why he allowed Karneth to use all the different food, half of which most of the crew wouldn't eat, but then he would always remind himself there were those parts of the crew that would eat them.

"So boss. What eating you this time? Or is something being eaten by you?" The deadpan voice seemed to be almost comedic, but Corruck knew that it was no joke.

"I guess it would be the being eaten by something. You said there was food?"

"There may be. Do you have something to say?" He tossed a thin strip of meat towards Corruck, who caught it before it fell to the floor.

"Yes. It is about Nothy." He bit into the meat, letting his mouth get used to the strange texture that it had. Obviously not a meat that Corruck had had before.

"With just those words you could make the Imperials give themselves up to the Republic. Or vice-versa." Again the dead voice showed no signs of humor, and Corruck knew that while it was funny it was said in almost complete seriousness.

"Granted. She seems to have overstepped boundaries that had upset the scientists quite a bit." He chewed, the meat had a different flavor than he was used to and it appeared to have been cooked very well. It broke without too much pressure, yet offered enough resistance to grant a nice crunch to the mix.

"Should have seen this day coming when she came aboard."

"Well, that may be true. But I stand by my decisions. What is this by the way?" He asked, swallowing the slice and letting the aftertaste well up in his mouth.

"Whether that is true or not, you must figure a path...on your own. Do you really want to know?" The Mirialan looked up while he continued to cut the meat into thin slices.

Corruck questioned himself at that point. The ship was a good home, but maybe it was time to move out of the ship. "Thanks." He said as he walked away.

He heard little commotion in the hall, so he dashed his way towards the bridge. He knew his way about better than the scientist at least, so he had something of an advantage. Once there he slipped into the cockpit, trying not to bother Sheera, who appeared to be busy with something else at the moment. He activated the main holo-terminal, setting its frequency to that of the Rebel fleet. "This is Corruck, I need to speak with Matchbox."

The terminal stayed silent for a moment before a voice replied, "Patching you through now."

In a few moments he would speak to her and hopefully deal with the problem.

"Sorry to disturb you at this time, Matchbox. I needed to ask your permission to go ahead with a project. If you have the time, may I outline the details?"

[member="Geneviève Lasedri"]

(Go ahead as you see fit, I will only be @mentioning you in the posts that I would like to have responded to. At your convenience.)

 

[Geneviève Lasedri]

It had been a sleepless 'night' for her, with more of the haunting dreams assailing her with the ever-increasing frequency. Lately, they began to include visions of that banshee, Xiangu, and disturbing scenarios involving all sorts of atrocities Lasedri had never even imagined before. She had even checked her teeth the moment she had awoken from her nightmare to make sure they had not been filed.

And so Geneviève was alone, casually touring Home One, the Alliance fleet's flagship, when 'Matchbox' was paged to their holoterminal. A few Rebel crewmen in the vicinity instantly glanced at the woman in black--those who knew exactly what 'Matchbox' meant, at least. A delayed salute was given in turn by each one as she passed, though she waved it off. Lasedri was never a huge fan of formality.

Sweeping through the sterile white hallways of the carrier, the Benefactor passed the medical bays and turned to enter her room, then immediately shut the door and activated the holoterminal. Kazen, Senior Intelligence Officer of the Rebellion was on the channel. She replayed the initial request message and then switched the feed to real-time communication. "Gryphon, it's Matchbox. Go ahead and spell it to me."

[member="Corruck Kazen"]

 

[Corruck Kazen]

"Thank you Matchbox. I have a current issue ongoing in my ship. It appears one of my crew members has been harassing the scientists that are part of the company under my command, ReCal." He took a breath about to continue when Sheera jumped in.

"And so far, Corruck hasn't been able to handle it." She laughed to herself and then looked away as she knew Corruck would stare at her for a moment.

However, Corruck had expected that and did not even look at her. "I would like to expand ReCal's operations so that they need not live aboard the ship. If we spread out, maybe the scientists will not be annoyed by my crew member's pranks."

"So far none of his other ideas have worked so guess he had to move to a higher authority." Another laugh.

Corruck closed his eyes as she spoke. "My idea is that the company set up a base on Praesitlyn. That way they could expand their abilities by maybe making a production station, as well as removing my crew from the picture. I had intended on setting up the facility relatively close to the holonet tower, that way we could also have a city begin to build if that would fit into plans. What do you think?"

He turned and lanced Sheera with a stare. She knew to keep quiet this time, but she still smiled. He turned back to the console and muted the volume on his end so that nothing Sheera could say would be heard. He had intended in expanding for awhile, but the needs of the Rebellion had stopped him from doing so. That and the fear that the planet ReCal would be based on would be captured and ReCal would be handed over to some other faction.

[member="Geneviève Lasedri"]

 

[Geneviève Lasedri]

The Benefactor nearly smiled as she faintly heard the excess commentary provided by whomever was accompanying Gryphon. It seemed as if someone was having a bit of fun. She had no doubt the poor scientists had been harassed quite well.

"I'm assuming it's not a big facility--at least, not initially." To sow the seeds of a city sounded like a process worth endorsing, and it would help quell suspicions of the inbound-outbound flights that the Rebellion ran with relative frequency. This might be the perfect stepping stone towards a healthy society that could support the Alliance's mission. "That would hardly need my approval. Industrial independence is invaluable--as long as it is discreet." She nodded shallowly in conclusion, as if to impart her blessing upon the project.

"Was there anything else?"

[member="Corruck Kazen"]

 

[Corruck Kazen]

"Thank you. That was all I needed. You've very well made my day, Matchbox." He heard the beginning of a laugh behind him as he said that.

Before the laugh fully came to fruition, it was cut off by Sheera clearing her throat to cover its existence. Corruck knew better than to fall for it however and he allowed himself to smile in his mind.

"I hope you have a good night's rest after this." He smiled outwardly now, he knew he would be able to get a good night's rest now.

He turned off the terminal, not wishing to waste anymore time. He turned to Sheera immediately and she glowered at his smile.

"Going to pay for those comments aren't I?"

"Oh, you will. I have some jobs that need doing, and once we land on Praesitlyn you will have little to do...yes?" His smile grew broader, and his eyes burned with a humor that Sheera had come to recognize as him playing.

"Well it is either that or keeping Nothy off the pilot controls. I guess I'm in."

"Good, saves me the time ordering you to do it." He turned and walked out of the bridge.

Sheera sighed, she knew what was ahead, there would be much work to be done. She set the ship's systems for a landing near the holonet transmitters and began a descent towards the planet.

---------------------------------

Corruck was planning through the facilities layout. He knew that he should be talking with the scientists about this one, but he decided against it, as time was of the essence. He really did not want to deal with these arguments any longer. So there he was, sitting on his bed with a datapad in front of him, around him lay images of other buildings' layouts. He intended on creating a building with utilitarianism mixed with an amount of art. He loathed the newer buildings that were simply based around how they were used, he wanted something that could be marveled.

By the time a knock came at the door, Corruck had already constructed the outside of the building in his mind and was transferring the details to his datapad. He looked up questioningly, he hadn't expected anyone for some time now. Then a thought occurred to him, the scientists may be having more trouble. As Corruck stood to get the door, he heard from the outside some talking. He couldn't make out the words but he was relieved to hear Rathur's voice, not one of the scientists. There was another with him, but Corruck couldn't make out the voice as easily.

Corruck opened the door, seeing Rathur and Nothy standing in front of him. Rathur looked decidedly cross and Nothy appeared to be a little intimidated at the moment.

Rathur started, "Sir! I would like to lodge a complaint about Nothy here. She has yet again changed the hyperspace routes on three star systems. Fortunately this time I caught her in the act and was able to revert the system. I would also like to have punishment administered. I..."

Corruck cut in, "Thank you Mister Rathur for notifying me of the situation. There will be no need for punishment at this point as the stern words you obviously have already given appear to have taught Nothy a lesson as it is. Anything else you wish to bring up?"

Rathur looked abashed for a moment. He then spoke up, "Yes sir. I want to know why you're letting her get away with it again."

Corruck gave a curt nod to Rathur before saying to Nothy, "You may go now, however I will be having a conversation with you later."

Nothy suddenly appearing to be normal again, jumped away from the group and made a mad dash towards the stairs before disappearing down them.

Corruck turned his attention to Rathur again, "Now, you want to know why I came to my decision? Well let's start with, she has done this in the past and so far you have caught the changes every time. We know she rarely actually does that anyways. And finally, you don't seem to mind quite as much when she messes with Sheera's controls."

"Those are different circumstances sir." Words seemed to fail him.

"I think not. Now how about instead of complaining, you go work on calculating the new hyperspace jumps into those other systems, we need to work on how to lower times on our jumps. We need to keep our jumps carefully timed and we need to cut times and fuel expenditure."

Rathur saw that this was a lost fight and he replied, "Alright sir."

Corruck returned to his bed and began working on the datapad, the ship should be landing within half an hour.

 

[Corruck Kazen]

About forty-five minutes later, Corruck was carrying a large durasteel sheet, with the help of Rathur. So far, they had emptied a little less than a ton of temporary housing supplies. While Corruck, Rathur, and most of the scientists were unloading the equipment and supplies, Nothy, Sheera, and the few scientists who were not up to the physical task of moving many of the heavy supplies were constructing the temporary structures. Karneth was busy preparing food, both for immediate consumption and non-perishable food for storage. So far the beginnings of the buildings appeared to be quite simple, unfortunately none of the people aboard the Recalcitrant had been construction workers which meant that Corruck had had to do some research to make sure that building would be safe to live in until the main facility was complete.

As Corruck lowered the sheet of Durasteel to the grass covered ground, he looked up to see that it was turning to evening. The group had started fairly late in the day and had tried to work as quickly as possible to get the first temporary living quarters complete. The scientists truly were looking forward to moving out the cramped confines of the ship. Especially when that got them farther away from the troublesome people aboard. Corruck simply hoped that the building would be complete enough for some of the people to live in.

He waved Rathur to take over as he walked over towards Sheera. The structure had walls and a roof, it was almost 10 meters by 15 meters. Sheera had been activating magnetic seals so that the structure held itself together, while not as strong as more permanent solutions, the magnetic seals did allow a temporary structure to have at least a modicum of stability and durability. He called to her as he neared, "How goes the overall construction?"

She wiped at her brow as she replied, still focused on the seals she was activating, "Well, so far, it seems that the building is mostly completed, but this building is going to be very little protection against those sandstorms that frequent the area."

Corruck had been aware of the sandstorms, but he also knew that this was the best area to set up as it was close to the holonet tower. He knew that with the second reinforcements that they had brought the buildings would be secure enough for life for a few weeks at best.

"Hopefully we will have those secondary reinforcements out soon, for now just keep working on properly building the interior. Alright?"

He heard a loud clang as Sheera activated a magnetic seal, she then responded, "You got it. After I finish the outside I'll go see how Nothy is doing."

Corruck turned and walked back toward the group of heavy lifters, they were just exiting the loading ramp with more sheets of durasteel and plating for the reinforcements. Rathur was holding a close quarter he was giving commands to warn the others of large steps and other hazards. Corruck waited until the group had lowered the metals onto the ground about three meters from the loading ramp. He then started talking to Rathur, "Rathur! How goes the walk?"

Rathur was breathing heavily as he turned in Corruck's direction. "It goes alright Boss. Heavy lifting, not much thought, just a little difficult work."

"Just your kind of work eh?" Corruck joked.

"Haha, never lose that sense of humor do you? Anyways, about half of the cargo bay is empty, we have gotten all the temporary living quarters. That means we will have to begin work on the permanent housing and facilities."

Corruck laughed as he spoke, "You've been reading up on the construction manuals left out. Yes we will be beginning to the work soon. For now it is time to get the living gear and people's effects into the housing. I expect that to be done before dark understood?"

"Will do, Sir." Rathur said as he gave a mock salute.

Corruck walked up the ramp, he had some final planning to do...

 

[Corruck Kazen]

Two days later would see Corruck standing outside a half completed permanent main structure. The Recalcitrant had moved into orbit, the sandstorms were murder on the paint job and Corruck had decided it would be safer for it to be in the air. Only the scientists and he were on the ground, working on the buildings. So far it had been uneventful, aside from the occasional sandstorm. The temporary housing had held out better than expected, he had commended the scientists on the strength of the reinforcements.

He heard footsteps behind him, it was quiet this morning and he had been alone for about an hour. His mind had calmed about this whole matter. There was little to no possibility of necessary changes, as he had planned for most eventualities. The few he did not plan for would be so far fetched that if they did happen it would catch most people off-guard.

"Pardon me. I hope I am not intruding." A light female voice tentatively said.

Corruck smiled, he had been waiting for dawn, he had been on planet for three days now and he had yet to see the dawn sun. "Not at all. Do you need something?"

The woman stayed out of Corruck's line of sight but replied, "I just wanted to ask if you would like some food. We will begin work fairly soon."

Corruck still didn't turn, looking over to the ever brightening horizon. "Thank you. I'll get my own food when I am ready."

He heard the light step of feet as the young lady retreated back towards the temporary housing.

Silence enveloped Corruck's world, silence and the cool right before the sun makes its daily appearance. He let the calm continue to allow his spirit to rest, something that his life rarely had the chance of obtaining. Then the next minute, the sun's warm rays lanced forth. The warmth was just enough to take the edge off of the night's cold and leave one with a surreal feeling of coolness. He watched the shadows play over the rough surfaces in the distance, like small armies racing to hide from the light. He closed his eyes and let himself feel peace.

-----------------------------------

"Blast it all! Come on lift!" Corruck yelled as he and five others worked a large sheet of durasteel towards the construction sight. Because the structure they were building was meant to be permanent, the materials put into it had to be highly durable. The sheets of Durasteel were just that, large, structurally sound, and heavy as hell.

The peace that his mind and heart had felt was all but spent now, midday. The sun's rays of the morning had passed, being followed by the burning fury of the midday. Corruck had hoped to avoid working at this time, if only because of the amount of heat and the effects that would have on moral and the materials. However, the Recalcitrant had relayed a message to the effect that there was a heavy sandstorm incoming. Wanting to avoid working in a sandstorm even more than in the heat, Corruck elected to have everyone work as hard as they could before the storm hit.

The sheet of metal lifted not too gracefully from the ground and was hauled ten meters towards the building site and three meters up. There it was fused to the infrastructure that had been built there. Corruck turned immediately after the sheet was secure and returned to the materials.

Two pieces of durasteel and three sheets of transparisteel later, the sandstorm was howling in the empty building's crevices. No people could be found in the or around the building. Instead the group huddled together and were talking inside the temporary housing. All except for Corruck. He had wanted to test the elements. So he stood, in a cloak with the wind and sand flying past him.

 

[Corruck Kazen]

The next day showed marked improvement. The building was almost complete, though most of it was covered in sand. The majority of work accomplished during the morning had simply been cleaning so that fewer accidents would occur. The scientists seemed to be taking all this work in good grace... maybe the fear of Nothy's pranks was pushing them beyond their normal thresholds.

This time Corruck was fusing sheets of durasteel to the infrastructure. It was a much less physical demanding job than moving the sheets themselves around, but mentally it required more focus and precision. Corruck was better at this job than moving the metal, but then all the people working would be better at this job as all of them were scientists. He felt little guilt however, because so far the job rotations had worked with little to no difficulties.

He heard the loud clanging of a person walking up to him. There was no cover for the metal floors, so it was difficult to sneak up on anybody at this point. Corruck finished fusing the sheet of metal before turning on his heel towards the person, who waited patiently for Corruck.

The young man spoke first, "Sorry to bother you sir. The rest of the crew is stopping for a short lunch break. Would you like to come and join?"

Corruck let a frown cross his face. "With all these breaks for food, I am surprised that you bunch haven't all gained at least some weight."

The scientists, apparently missing Corruck's joke, tried to explain, "Well sir, it is because the amount of work we are accomplishing burns more or equal energy to what we are ingesting through meals. If you want I can bring some food to you." The young man was obviously trying to be polite, even though it was easy to tell that he felt hurt by the supposed insult.

Corruck laughed, to himself more than than towards the man. "Will I never find a scientist with humor? Ah, do not worry, I'll get food when I am hungry. Go ahead and eat and I will join fairly soon."

The scientist gave an unsure laugh along with Corruck, then his eyes widened for a moment when Corruck began talking. Once Corruck finished, the man turned immediately and began walking away. Obviously he had not taken the jokes well, but if Corruck knew the crew, this man would get over it pretty quickly.

----------------------------------------

"Today has been a fine day for work, and those who worked on it have accomplished a fine day's work. I am truly proud that this company of men and women has so far had little trouble with the construction process. I look forward to finishing the project and seeing how well everybody continues working in the facility. I hope that these last few days will not be accompanied with any true difficulties. Now everybody go get a restful night." Corruck yelled, his voice almost cracking from dryness. He accepted the glass of water that was offered to him by a passing scientist. He soothed his pained throat with the cool water before taking a look outside, through one of the windows. The moon had just broken past the horizon and was slowly inching its way up through the night sky.

Staying for only a few seconds, Corruck turned and walked to his room. No one was nearby, so Corruck slipped inside and closed the door behind him. He felt a little glad that most of the work was done, but then he had enjoyed much of it and was not too happy about having to leave this simple work for the much more complex galaxy out there...though probably he wouldn't survive without the complexities that existed off-planet. He enjoyed calculating prices and odds. Too much, he thought. That enjoyment led to him taking risks, many of which were unacceptable yet he often came through. Maybe he should try some other hobbies. He wasn't sure.

 

[Corruck Kazen]

A day forward and the buildings exterior and infrastructure had been completed. The group was now working on filling the inside with the amenities that would be necessary for a comfortable existence. So far the lower levels had had neat white tiles inlaid in the floors. The refreshers had been put in working order and had lights installed. Unfortunately, the refreshers had seen some use...a lot of use. There were three people who were assigned to keeping those areas clean, as it would be preferable that it not be dirtied so early in its existence.

Corruck was carrying a tile container, he was again simply being a heavy lifter. The second floor would be a basic analysis area, for taking tech that already existed and pulling it apart. They would figure out how to improve the tech. It would have some of machinery to further that goal, such things as magnification tables, holo-tables, and basic deconstruction tools. There were five rooms on this level, four for the deconstruction and analysis and the fifth for constructing parts for what would be believed to better the tech. Of course there was also a refresher, however at this point it had not been finished out.

The first floor was for basic living quarters, feeding, and general upkeep. There was a large room for the living quarters, which was further divided by thinner walls to allow privacy. The second largest room was the galley and eating hall. Then there was also a reception area at the main entrance. This level was not going to be as technologically advanced as the higher levels, though its simplicity and beauty would be more apparent. Some of the scientists had already moved their possessions from the temporary living space. It certainly had livened up the area, it had a more homely feel to it at the time.

As he dropped the container slowly to the floor, Corruck looked around. Right beside him was a viewport looking opposite the rising sun. He could see far away the beginning of clouds forming. He liked the clouds, rain was cleansing agent to the ground and he loved smelling it and hearing it fall. He looked forward to it later, it would likely have a nice tinkling sound on the metallic roof. But even as he watched, the grey of the clouds turned to a light tan. The clouds disappeared behind a wall of sand. Another sandstorm was incoming. "Blast." Corruck said to himself as the sand cloud moved swiftly to their position. He ran from the area towards the top floor.

---------------------------

The top floor had been covered in some extra durasteel plating to protect the sensitive equipment from the sandstorm. They had sensor equipment to keep an eye on the surrounding area, land and space. It hadn't had the proper protection added yet, so when something like a sandstorm or thunderstorm came along it all had to be covered. Once the interior was complete they would work on the proper protection.

He turned away from the transparisteel window, towards the scientists that were sweeping away the sand that had gotten in from the last sandstorm. This time there would be considerably less because they had sealed most of the building against that sort of thing happening. He watched for a moment before leaving that portion of the building. They continued their work in silence as he left. Corruck kept quiet as he walked to the front entrance. His mind fell black as he looked at the sand battering at the front door. He smiled at a scientist as the man ran from outside. He had been collecting some of the equipment that had been left out. The equipment was all small things like hyrdospanners and other tools.

Corruck grabbed some of the equipment as the scientist dropped the random pieces onto the ground near the entrance. He nodded as he turned around and began taking the stuff upstairs. Some of the scientists had already begun messing with the equipment to get some products out. He wasn't complaining, he was actually glad that there was going to be some productiveness during the off-time. They would probably like some of this equipment, it would most certainly help.

 

[Corruck Kazen]

At long last that day had come! That day on which Corruck would look out of the ReCal main facility's top window and see not a number of people scurrying to work on the building, but instead he saw the people coming with science tools. They were here to stay, the temporary facility was being broken down for parts to be used in the first production. Right now they were working on a starfighter. A very important starfighter, in that it was the first to ever be created by ReCal. The first of hopefully many. His plans for this company were large and would take much time before their completion. He had already planned for the next set of starfighters that would be produced, but he had to take it one step at a time.

He looked through the large transparisteel viewport, the whole top room was surrounded by it. That was his idea simply to be a good place to welcome newcomers and what not. Now though, he had an important business call to make. He turned the large center room comm on, tuned it to the relatively nearby city's comm system and made some quick inquiries about the city leadership. "Hello, I just wanted to know if I may make an appointment with the Mayor of your city?"

"I am sorry sir, the Mayor's schedule is full for the next week and a half."

"Is there anyway that I may be squeezed into that schedule? I need to speak with him, it is fairly important." Corruck said, trying to keep a pleasant quiet voice.

"I am sorry, that is simply not possible. If you want I will set you up for the next available appointment."

Corruck grimaced, that would be too long. He needed to get to work right away, and he would need to have a permit, or something like that, so that his work could not be taken by the city. He knew that such an event was unlikely, however it was possible and he feared that it could happen. "Thank you but no."

He switched off the comm and turned towards exit. He would take a different approach...

----------------------------------------

An hour later, he was within the city main hall. He stood before an administrator. Apparently, while the schedule was full, the actual number of people coming in for their appointment was fewer. He had actually been quite fortunate, he had come in right as another person's scheduled appointment was being cancelled, now Corruck had that person's time. He intended on using it as efficiently as possible.

Inside the office, Corruck looked around, trying to get an understanding of the person. The room was sparsely decorated, as he had expected, however it had some fairly expensive furniture. The wood appeared to have come from off-world. Obviously this person had a taste for more exotic and expensive things, things that were harder to find on the planet...things that Corruck could offer.... However he also saw that the amount of things that came from off world were few. So he guessed that the person liked rare things, but wanted to still appear to be the man of the people that he was supposed to be. He would have to be careful with this one. As a concept he was trying to learn how to make quick calls on people's personalities using their property. So far he had had variable success, but his hope was to eventually make the technique more effective as time went on.

He heard the mayor's personal door open, soon he would be speaking with the mayor. Corruck looked forward to it.

[member="Geneviève Lasedri"]

 

[Beowoof]

(I will be using this account for the mayor.)


Well, that was disappointing. Mayor Tridkunni Maslov had been anticipating a little afternoon breather from all the annoying people who usually visited him to whine and groan about this person's cattle and that person's loud speeder. Such was the life of a mayor in one of the smaller corners of the galaxy. This backworlds planet had been largely neglected by the public eye--perhaps for the better, he admitted--despite their strategic significance as a prime Holonet relay to the thousands of systems in this arm of the galactic disc. Praesitlyn was an important locale, but hardly prestigious for a tiny scratch on the political plane of this large galaxy.

Sighing deeply, the weather-worn Chagrian official shuffled to his door and opened it for this unexpected visitor. As the door slid open, Maslov put on the fakest of smiles, noting the man was a complete stranger--and not just from another village. No, this was a complete offworlder, and while the mayor was aware and reservedly accepting of the locally-based Rebellion group, the less any of these strangers bothered him, the better. He had enough trouble settling little property disputes. No, I don't want you to sell me deathsticks.

"Hello, friend," he welcomed, still maintaining that smiling facade. He was practicing for the big leagues, after all. The burly Chagrian moved back to his desk and motioned towards a chair on the side opposite his little 'throne'. "Please, take a seat.

"What brings you to Praesitlyn--and to my office, in particular? You squeezed in line, I see. I'm quite busy, so I'd say you're rather fortunate. I do hope you bring something new to my ears--something good, of course."

[member="Corruck Kazen"]

 

[Corruck Kazen]

Corruck stepped in, returning the apparent smile for his own controlled smile. He wondered offhandedly whether this mayor was sincere in his use of the term friend. He doubted whether it, most of these types tended to be a little less friendly towards others. Especially off-worlders... Corruck's hope was to at least throw off the Mayor's predisposition against off-worlders, or at least himself, by starting with what could be beneficial for him. Then the Mayor offered him a seat. Corruck walked as crisply across the room as he could, letting himself slowly sit onto the chair. It wasn't that he expected anything, it had just been quite awhile since he had last been seated on a comfortable chair like this.

"As a matter of fact, so did I Mr. Mayor," Good keep it cordial, yet still slightly casual, "I am here on behalf of my company ReCal. You've probably never heard of it, as it has only recently started work."

Corruck let himself sink into his chair a little, to give the impression of being somewhat relieved to have said thus far. He took a breath and continued, "I have come to request for land near the Holonet relay. My company already set up a basic work building, I was not aware of your presence here at the time as my ship was fairly crowed, and I was hoping that I may have more land to expand ReCal in the future."

Silence fell for a moment as Corruck looked intently at the Mayor, not to intently, but enough to show interest. He would start with the basic request and then if asked would go in further detail about how the company's presence would benefit his small town.

[member="Geronivous"]

(interesting character by the way. )

 

[Beowoof]

No, Maslov had not heard of this 'ReCal' before. It was not an abbreviation he was familiar with, nor did the phrase sound like something his grassland people threw around everyday. "Intriguing," he responded, taking to his cushy seat of mayoral power. "Also intriguing that you would request property adjacent to the land the Holonet tower is situated on." His eyes looked crookedly at his desk for a moment, seemingly staring a hole into the wood as his mind briefly wandered.

"Yes, very intriguing," he repeated once more. "And, as I'm sure you may already know, our chief export here is media, despite all the agricultural progress we have been making in recent decades." The Chagrian peered into the other man's eyes, attempting to figure out his plans, as if he could see into his brain like some nosy Jedi. "So, I'm wondering why this plot would be valuable to you, unless you plan on establishing a Holonet station or media corporation here. An in that case, I don't believe it is appropriate to just hand out property to a network that would already be claiming a monopoly in my neighborhood." He was being very defensive with few facts on the table.

Interrupting himself, Mayor Maslov stroked his chin an asked, "Oh, yes. What was your name, again?"

[member="Corruck Kazen"]

 

[Corruck Kazen]

Corruck listened intently, the man was... cautious, he didn't know what to expect and was therefore being more conservative in the information he was handing out. Corruck also got the feeling that the mayor was trying to read Corruck's own intentions. He let his body take up a position of pent up concern, as if he really was scared about not getting the land. Then he let loose a little fake sigh of relief, as if the subject change had been a welcome distraction from the other problems.

Corruck had to think fast, he wasn't certain if Corruck was such a great name to be handing out... of course, so long as the last name was not remotely similar he might be alright. It wasn't like this guy was any thread right now to Corruck's security. "Ah, where are my manners. My name is Corruck Longherald." He threw the last name out as a long forgotten person came to mind. That brought back memories, not exactly ones that he needed now but he would think on those later.

"You have no need to fear for your media monopoly. My intent is solely on physical goods of military and civilian manufacture. Already my people have created a building reinforcement that is strong enough to increase building integrity by approximately 63% in most cases." He was not trying to impress the governor so much as show that he had civilian projects in mind. though in actuality that was the only one that he could remember at the moment. He watched carefully the mayor's expression and listened even more carefully to his response. Diplomatic things such as this were always more difficult than a firefight.

[member="Geronivous"]

 

[Beowoof]

Maslov clasped his hands before him on his desk. Such a business could bring thousands of new citizens to Praesitlyn, helping to continue this odd growth in their rather isolated economy. The planet had hardly been a place of commerce and was barely touched by the rest of the galaxy--at least, physically--and any sort of expansion in population and business sounded enticing to the mayor. However, military production here was something that might no go over well. "Yes, Mister Longherald.

"You see, what my concern about that would be is if we were to become a military target. We haven't seen war in... well, in a few centuries, in all honesty. I don't know how well the people would take that. Heck, I don't know how I would take that.

"However," he added, not inclined to lose a chance for bringing in some commerce. "If you can convince me of how you're going to prevent any unfortunate accidents or... targeting because of this, I may have an open ear."

[member="Corruck Kazen"]

 

[Corruck Kazen]

Corruck decided to take a moment to think. He let silence fall in the room for a few moments before responding. In that time he had a whirl of thoughts. Not all pertaining to the current circumstances. He had to think about the plans for his companies future. He had to plan for the wars that would likely come to this planet due to it participation with the Rebel Alliance. He didn't delude himself, the Rebels would make many enemies and those enemies would not be merciful in dealing with them. That was why ReCal had to be made into a war and civilian producer. It had to be able to produce weapons and things needed for the battles to come, yet he couldn't leave the civilians untended to.

He got the feeling that the mayor was interested in commerce, but not to the point that he and his people would be endangered. If not for outside military forces, this planet would be easy pickings for larger galactic factions. It was a very understandable concern.

"For prevention, I already have a quickly growing military faction behind me that is more than willing to protect this planet. They may have already spoken to you or others on the planet, but I believe that having a production center here would lead to increased defense, I already have a military police plan ready for the immediate protection."

He looked around for a moment, taking in the scenery once again and then turned his attention back to the mayor. He wondered hwo the person would respond.

[member="Geronivous"]

 

[Beowoof]

"So, you're with the Rebel Alliance people, huh?" Maslov's hand made its way under neath his chin and rubbed it ponderously. "We're kind of screwed as it is with them here, I have to say. Though, having a definitive supplier of weapons for them makes me feel a little more at ease. At least they can supply themselves?" Not that they stood a chance at all, either way. But Praesitlyn was a low-priority world to most of the galaxy, and no one had come calling so far. Having an arms manufacturer at least boosted some confidence--and maybe some economy.

"I guess it can't do any more harm than the Rebellion's presence already does. And nothing bad has befallen us yet." Yet, the mayor reminded himself. There had not been a major conflict in these parts since... Well, since the Clone Wars, as far as he was aware. "There's nothing I'm going to do to stop your endeavors, Mister Longherald. So long as you want to be here and you can keep to your business, I have no serious qualms."

The Chagrian politician arose from his chair and extended his hand across the desk. "Welcome to Praesitlyn, Mister Longherald?"

[member="Corruck Kazen"]

 

[Corruck Kazen]

Corruck smiled, quite a break. "Please, call me Corruck." He shook the hand as professionally as he could. After all, we're going to be meeting quite a bit. He thought.

Well this would open up opportunities, now that he had the permission of the governor he could expand operations and have an open supply of able and willing people. He could use his new resource to prepare for the future and what a future it would be. He could envision it, the facilities were large and majestic, specifically made to suggest a connection to those older days, the days when the Republic owned most of the galaxy. He imagined the production factories, hidden away, maybe buried underground so as to avoid making the mistake of having large unsightly buildings above ground. Or maybe, maybe the factories would be built to appear aesthetically pleasing. Maybe even have a small shipyard enough to produce fighters and small corvettes, like the ship he had that had brought him here.

But that was all in the future, and there was no telling how much suffering, tribulation, and tests that would come before his goal was reached. He nodded to mayor and asked, "Is there anything more you would wish to discuss, sir?"

[member="Geronivous"]