Commerce. [CIS]

[Malok]

​

C O M M E R C E​

INDEPENDENCE CENTRE
Geonosis, Local Time: 1200 Hours

There was so much to do.

During the reign of the first, modern Confederacy, Darth Metus served in a much lesser capacity. As a well-paid mercenary, he and the Dread Guard plied their warlike trade across Hutt Space. Together, they broke the chains of many worlds and introduced them to the embrace of Democracy. However, while the mercenary lifestyle was difficult in its own right, it was something that the Sith Lord had been born to do. He was a child of Mandalore - despite his current relationship with the regime. From birth he was cultivated to wage war: to fight and thrive on the battlefield. Conquest was what he knew...and therefore, this felt so daunting.

Ascending to the mantle of Vicelord meant shouldering a great many responsibilities. He was the guiding hand of a nation: and therefore it was his responsibility to ensure that his people were provided for. It was his responsibility to make good on the promise of prosperity. Therefore, one of his firsts acts was to reach out across the airwaves and the HoloNet with an offer. One that would intice those whose lives were built upon capitalism and free market. Darth Metus offered the Trade Federation.

In his collaborations with the established Viceroyalty, the notion was one of an exceptional congregation: businessmen and women who supported the Confederacy's cause. How they chose to show that support would, ultimately, be up to them. Some would elect to simply produce unique product lines for the Confederacy; whilst others might decided to commit their own corporate fleets to the cause. The Confederacy would not dictate their support, but only encourage that it be a step above the base selling of merchandise. In exchange, the Confederacy would turn to these companies first for their needs; in essence becoming a state-sponsored gathering. They would also be permitted to build new holdings upon every Confederate world. In essence, as the Confederacy grew, so too would their companies.

And thus, with the offer sent across the Galaxy, the Sith Lord opened the floor of Independence Centre.

In terms of aesthetic, the heart of the Centre was vast. A towering room with vaulted ceilings was where the corporations would meet today. An indigo carpet spanned the length of the room stretching from the towering doors to the Vicelord's own seat. On opposing sides of this carpet were rows of seats. Typically, these would be occupied by the various Viceroys and their immediate staff; yet today the frontmost rows were reserved for those who would accept the offer. As for how the proceeding would occur, the order of business was thus. Once the attendees had arrived and settled themselves, the Vicelord would give his address. He would then open the floor to those companies seeking to accept the offer by allowing them a few moments to introduce themselves and - more importantly - their wares.

From thus would they be accepted within the Confederacy's Trade Federation and anointed as Trade Barons.

Now, the opening chapter had yet to begin. The doors were opened and droid attendants set about directing the representatives to their seats. In but a few moments' time, the presentation would begin.

Spoiler

[member="Amaya Verd"], [member="Chek Zun"], [member="Sila"], [member="Zenva Vrotoa"], [member="Holowan Industries"] ([member="Nivag"], [member="Tugoro Taidarious"]), [member="Xero Wran"]

 

[Chek Zun]

It had been quite awhile since, the Presidente of the Commerce Guild had set foot upon the rocky barrens of Geonosis. The stale air, the beating sun, the constant dust storms, yes it was all coming back to the Gossam why he didn't visit here often. Chek Zun's ship landed gracefully upon one of the landing pads erected by the new CIS. His ship was an old Trade Federation transport which he had renovated to allow for quite a luxurious interior. HE would fly with no less than the best. He was escorted out by his trusty B-1 droids. They were like any other B-1 however their heads were painted blue and had the Gossam's Family crest upon them. Why wouldn't they? He looked around taking a few sniffs of the air, still just as stale as he remembered. He looked upon the Genosian spires and wondered how such life-forms managed to evolve on this planet.

Now the Gossam was here on this planet for a specific reason. He had received word that the CIS was being reborn.....AGAIN! He had always been a fan of history and had good and bad dealings with resurgent CIS groups in the past, however he always found his loyalty well placed in them....... mostly. So when he received an invitation, being the presidente that he was, to speak with other trade and business owners about working with the CIS again he was quick to accept and thus he found himself on dirtland 5 or as it was more commonly called Geonosis.

Upon exiting his shuttle Chek was quick to be greeted by some of the CIS B-1s who began leading him into one of the hive structures. His personal droids followed at a brisk pace occasionally spouting 'roger' to one another. Sometimes Chek question why he kept B-1s but then he always remembered, as dumb as they were, they always were quite hilarious to listen to. He often wondered who their original designer was that made most of the programming. He or she must have been quite the individual to be certain. After a short walk he was led to a pair of double doors where once opened revealed an interesting room to be certain.

Chek slowly walked onto the purple carpet his walking stick clattering with the ground underneath with every step. At the far end sat a man on top a throne, and on each side were many seats and tables. The presidente slowly walked towards the front his large bulbous eyes never leaving the man. One he got closer he spoke. "Quite the room I didn't know Geonosis had the room to fit feudal throne rooms," He spoke up as he made his way to his chair and slowly sat down. Once he did though his two B-1s entered his bubble zone, as in they kind of just crept up right behind his chair.

"You two shoo to the wall or something your services are not required," He spoke to his droid to which each did a very silly salute. "Roger roger," They both said as they moved the one of the walls in the room. Chek then returned his attention to the man upon the throne. "I am impressed to say the least, you seem to have gotten quite the following, which is good of course," Chek spoke again as he rested his cane against the table, and crossed his arms. "As always though the Commerce Guild has always been friends of the CIS and I hope our meeting here today will allow that to be so again."

[member="Darth Metus"]

 

[Sila]

A sleek ship set down upon a landing pad attached to the Independence Center where a rather large, yet exclusive, gather was taking place. Businessmen and women, scientists, merchants, and the the like from all over the galaxy were invited here this day to discuss the future of theirselves and that of the galaxy in which they make their profit. This is what brought Dr. Sila Blaire here. After vacating her former occupation under the Iron Empire, Dr. Blaire wanted to start anew elsewhere.

Sila walked down the ramp of her ship, wearing a form fitting black dress that barely touched the top of her knees and revealed her shoulders, with two guards at her sides. Before she entered the building she waved them off. "Do not worry. I am among friends. I assure you." She winked at one of her guards and proceeded to enter the building as they returned to the ship. Sila stopped to talk to one of her former associates that she had recognized from when she was under the watchful eye of Admiral Davin. "It's been good seeing you again, my friend. I hope to work with you in the near future." she said before going to find a seat near the center of the compartment so that she could see and hear everything.

[member="Darth Metus"] | [member="Chek Zun"]

 

[Ballen-Ist]

A small shuttle made its way through space, advancing towards the barren planet of Geonosis. The craft had just split off from the security fleet above orbit, which consisted of several ships of different size and purpose. Holowan Laboratories had offered its services to the Confederacy of Independant Systems, eager to spread their product beyond the sector that they had slowly gained control over.

The company was not a massive one in comparison to others throughout the galaxy, but they did take pride in their creations, aiming to make high-quality goods for everyone to use, all in the name of safety and security. There were a few representatives that often interacted with others in the company's name, but Dr. Upari had been chosen specifically for this presentation. The old, cybernetic-enhanced man was not sure as to why he had been sent, but was sure that he would find out soon.

The shuttle had just touched down outside of the large structure, which truthfully did impress the doctor somewhat. Even the interior was fancy, which indicated that this Confederacy had serious resources to spare. Walking along the stretching carpet, Upari set his cybernetic-littered body down upon one of the seats, casting a glance to a few of the other attendees present. He did not doubt that they too were eager to hear what was soon to be said.

[member="Darth Metus"] [member="Chek Zun"] [member="Sila"]

 

[Lord Mettallum]

[media]https://youtu.be/ePYe3lqsu-g[/media]

Lord Mettallum's shuttle entered Geonosis's atmosphere with multiple Alpha Dragon Droid Fighters escorting it. As the rather large shuttle landed the fighters escorting landed in walker mode similar to a vulture droid. Lord Mettallum exited the shuttle with two massive GP Guardian droids behind him. Lord Mettallum was amazed at how the geonosians were able to survive and thrive in such a planet and even become one of the galaxies biggest droid manufacturers. Lord Mettallum was glad he decided to come to this conference even if most of the other Metal Lords seemed to have anti CIS perspectives which was the opposite to Lord Mettallum who saw the CIS as a force that made some amazing technology and droids. Of course Lord Mettallum came here for business reasons and hopefully get them to buy his Droid fighters which were more advanced versions of vulture droids.

Once Lord Mettallum entered the facility some B1s walked over to him and told him to follow them. Lord Mettallum was not expecting such a nice looking interior for a facility built on a desert planet and was pleasantly surprised. Once Lord Mettallum got to the conference room he thanked the b1s who took him to the room as they walked away. Once inside the conference room Lord Mettallum realised the seats were to small for him so he pushed a couple of them to the side and stood where the seats once were. Lord Mettallum's guards stood behind him ready to engage in combat if anything bad was to happen. Lord Mettallum only knew one person here and that was Dr. Upari who was one of the few organics Lord Mettallum fully respected.

[member="Holowan Industries"]
[member="Sila"]
[member="Chek Zun"]
[member="Darth Metus"]

 

[Zenva Vrotoa]

Light itself twisted, stretching infinitely as the Command Ship of Blood Hunter's Iron Works private Fleet dropped out of Hyperspace above Geonosis. A moment later two Frigates, and a pair of Corvettes materialized beside the Blood Matron's warship. The airwaves flooded with encrypted chatter as the small fleet began it's approach to the dusty, rock strewn planet. Their advance was slow, cautious and measured, as the Fleet Commander exchanged clearances with the planet's defence fleet. In time a much smaller ship emerged from the Command Ship, descending to the surface alone. In short order the Gunship touched down gingerly on one of the prepared landing pads, it's ramp dropping to the ground, giving Zenva her first taste of Geonosian air.

The Blood Matron wasted no time, setting out for the meeting hall at a quick pace. A matched pair of IG Droids marched ahead of the woman, clearing her path of obnoxious B-1s. Behind the crimson skinned Zabrak a quartet of soldiers moved in close formation to the Matron. Each one indistinguishable from the others in their heavy body armor. The Zabrak and her entourage reached the double doors, where the Lady paused to straighten her dress before she approached the Vicelord on his throne.

The Crimson Lady came to a halt before the Vicelord, inclining her head ever so slightly to the man, a great sigh of respect in the Zabrak's eyes. "My Lord Metus." She said in a voice as smooth as silk, and sweet like warmed honey. "Clan Vrotoa thanks you for our inclusion in these proceedings. I have taken the liberty of preparing two gifts for The Confederacy as thanks." The woman turned slightly, one arm extending to draw attention to the four soldiers behind her. "The first you see before you. Combat armor which has be made available to all The Confederacy for manufacturing costs alone. If the need should arise, I am also prepared to fill that armor with soldiers for any who might require them." The Zabrak turned back to the Vicelord, her coal black lips curled in a vicious, shark toothed smile. "The second gift you will find in orbit, my Lord. Five Capital Ships that sail at my command to be made available to The Confederacy, and deployed as is needful."

Once more the Matron inclined her head toward the Vicelord, her serrated smile yet curling her blackened lips. The Zabrak turned away then, taking to a nearby seat. The twin IG Droids fell in behind the woman's chair, the four soldiers turning away to take positions along the wall near the double doors of the chamber. The Matron's bizarre yellow-red eyes swept over those that had already gathered. She said nothing more, content to fold one of her long legs atop the other at the knee, and wait to see who else was to arrive.

[member="Darth Metus"] [member="Chek Zun"] [member="Sila"] [member="Holowan Industries"] [member="Lord Mettallum"] [member="Galven Hansol"]

 

[Malok]

It was time.

One by one, the delegates made their entrances into the throne room. For the most part, the esteemed individuals simply took their seats and assigned their personal protection to stand close or afar. Yet, there were those who saw fit to greet the Vicelord personally. This was not taboo or faux pas, of course. In fact, it aided the Sith in keeping himself steady. These were not opponents on the battlefield, and thus he did not have to overthink what it was he was going to say. He did not have to keep repeating his address over and over in his mind, assessing for errors with each passing second. These were people. Prominent people, yet people just like he. He didn't have to analyze them...He could speak honestly.

Suffice it to say, the Vicelord appreciated the coversation.

The first was the Presidente of the Commerce Guild, a Gossam by the name [member="Chek Zun"]. Although they did not know one another personally, his greeting was candid. Professional, yet candid. This, of course, caused the beginnings of a smile to form upon the Vicelord's lips. "Well met, Presidente Zun." he began, utilizing his offhand to indicate the room about them. "Geonosis has been gracious enough to allow us to leave our mark. Golbah City, the beating heart of the new Confederacy, is a contrast to the hives of yore. It is a representation of the progress we hope to bring to all our members; and to share with you." There was power in his voice, enough to carry it from his throne to the far doors. "The Commerce Guild has always been a welcome friend and ally; and I too hope that we can rekindle that relationship today."

The Vicelord concluded his response with a respectful nod to the Gossam before setting his gaze forward again. At this time, the second individual to address him directly stepped forward. She...had an air about her that flew in the face of the elegant dress she wore; an air that reminded Darth Metus of his upbringing. Perhaps it was the look in her eyes or the unyielding superiority of her steps...but [member="Zenva Vrotoa"] screamed warrior in the mind of the Sith. That thought was compounded by the gifts presented alongside her introduction. The first was an example of combat armor available to any and all warriors within the Confederacy; should the nation foot the production bill. At a glance, Darth Metus could tell that this would not shoddily crafted armor either. Easily modifiable. Well-made. A fitting gift, indeed. And the second gift was one that the Sith Lord could not see...but he took the woman's word for it entirely. A combat flotilla, situated within orbit.

Suffice it to say, the Blood Matron made one Hell of an introduction. The Vicelord's grin was compounded by these facts, so much so that his hands pushed against the arms of his Throne. Ascension gripped him as the Zabrak calmly took her seat. "Allow me to offer my gratitude as well for your attendance today. Your gifts are beyond exceptional, and I am more than happy to accept them on behalf of the Confederacy." Another nod. And now, the Address began. Darth Metus opened his arms wide, as if to receive the entire room into his embrace, before speaking.

"I bid you all welcome to Golbah City! On behalf of our great Confederacy do I extend my sincerest thanks for your presence today." he began, now lowering his arms. "The Southern Systems are not the same as they were decades ago...In fact, when I first set foot upon Geonosis, during the height of the first Confederacy, I was but a young man. Back then, the idea of Independence was at its peak; and now, that idea is stronger than ever!"

"But."

"We have a long road ahead of us if we hope to champion that idea across the stars. We have a long road ahead if we hope to return the Southern Systems to their former glory, and to surpass the achievements of the former Confederacy. Within our borders are many exceptional souls - but even we cannot achieve this momentous goal alone. We require the support of exceptionally gifted entities and individuals such as each of you. Thus have we devised the foundation for a thriving relationship between the Confederacy and your Corporations. We have devised the resurrection of the ancient Trade Federation."

"We now invite you all to adopt the mantle of Trade Baron and to join the Confederacy in her mission to champion Independence across the stars." The Vicelord did not go into exorbitant detail of what the base definition of a Trade Baron was; for they would have been provided the provisions of this agreement prior to arriving. In brief, the heads of the various companies assembled today would be dubbed Baron and would see their companies sponsored by the Confederacy. They would be permitted to erect new holdings on each Confederate world. And, they would be expected to aide the cause of Independence in a way they so chose. Moving forward, the Vicelord then motioned to them all. "So come, adopt this mantle. Rise and state your committment to the cause of Independence. Rise and show me what your corporation has produced and can do. This is your opportunity to cement the relationship between the Confederacy and your corporation."

Having said thus, the floor was open to the various CEOs and entities assembled. Each would have an opportunity to rise from their seat and to provide an overview of the services and products provided by their corporation. They would also have a chance to voice how they would champion the cause of Independence. Then, once all had said their piece, the Vicelord would address those gathered once more.

[member="Chek Zun"], [member="Sila"], [member="Holowan Industries"], @Lord Metallum, [member="Zenva Vrotoa"]

 

[Galven Hansol]

"Thank you [member="Darth Metus"]," Galven said, rising as he ended a trade negotiation on a datapad, "it is very kind of you to offer this to us. I personally will accept, and will also allow the use of all of the ships and technology my company has created in the use of making up the fleets." He pulled up a hologram showing the different schematics of the goods he was discussing, "I also am currently in the works of creating a special frigate which will have the power to destroy star destroyers in SECONDS!" his voice raising before he stopped and calmed down, "Or so is my hope."
He then closed the hologram and sat back down; leg up on the other knee, and hands folded together, "Our faction is still small compared to others such as the Alliance and First Order, we need armies, of coarse they will be made up of droids," he added on as others began to protest, "but I want something different, normal droids are simply not as experienced as living soldiers, and cannot become as experienced. However, I have heard of a phenomenon which could prove to be of our advantage. Hundreds of years ago the Galactic Empire fell after its emperor did the same. However, it later rose in the form of the first, well...First Order. This was done not only by hard working devotes to the cause, but also a revolutionary type of robot. The sentinels, droids created to have the memory and thoughts of the real Emperor. If we were to take that same technology and use a subject known for their battle skills, we could have an army of experienced droids!"

[member="Zenva Vrotoa"], [member="Lord Mettallum"], [member="Holowan Industries"], [member="Sila"], [member="Chek Zun"],

 

[Xero Wran]

"Greetings all, I am councilor and chairperson Xero Wran of the Galactic General Labor Corps based on the free planet of Yarkora, Balmorra and Kuat. It is with great pleasure and humble grace that I accepted the offer to adjoin this meeting on behalf of [member="Darth Metus"]. I come before you as an outsider, a representative of a unique but simple organization that unlike the mightiest of commerce guilds, is not based on the manufacture and movement of raw materials, consumables or mass media- (he takes a moment to compose)- but of the core essential input to all of these things, the most necessary of industry input, Organized/Unorganized skilled/unskilled Labor. In the form of a dedicated professional and motivated core of Temp. workers, the GLC's prime motivation is to provide that most cherished and fulfilling feeling of purpose that hard work and genuine labor does provide to the people of the galaxy writ-large."

Looks about the chamber knowingly

"However it is not just Organic assets that we provide, or at least hope to provide" (pause) "It is my and the GLC councils hope, that the GLC will be able to fund and organize a mobile Droid labor force on top of our tried Organic based force, production of which we would gladly cooperate with any here to allow us to provide to work alongside motivated and professional organic laborers. For this reason alone is why the GLC wishes to provide its base economic services to the Confederate and galactic economic community, it sees in this C.I.S a worthwhile longterm investment from which to spring forward the GLC's clout as an accredited service provider to both established and growing businesses who more than likely are in desperate need of that best start-up capital a business could need- hard Labor Input, but without any of the cost of payment or benefits! It is we who provide for your employees! Freeing you of the need for extra expenditure."

Sips drink

"It is also in the interest of the GLC to provide its opportunities to the diverse citizens of the Confederacy, to give them that essential spark of life that is gainful employment. We pledge to contract our services not only to the Private sector projects but to Public sector projects as well. Wages need not be doled unless it is at the discretion of the employer as agreed in contract, otherwise, no payment need be delivered as the GLC provides all necessary services to its dedicated Laborers as a collective-though extra payment is encouraged for incentivizing expedited works naturally, though again it is not necessary."

Taking his seat after parsing his last quips: "I, councilor Wran of the GLC, would once again like to extend my gratitude to [member="Darth Metus"] for allowing us a place at this summit and look forward to future relations with the other magnanimous trade guilds present today. I assure you all that a working relationship with GLC, means a guaranteed access to motivated, highly professional Labor inputs that will sort any and all varieties of your General Labor needs. Our workforce, is your workforce, our workforce is the Confederacy's workforce.

"That is my time, thank you." Sips drink and leans in chair.






[member="Zenva Vrotoa"], [member="Lord Mettallum"], [member="Holowan Industries"], [member="Sila"], [member="Chek Zun"],

 

[Malok]

The first to voice their response as @Galven Hansel, who initially pledged the support of his corporation's vessels and technologies in the name of building a new Confederate Armada. Then, he caused the Sith to lean forward in his seat - for the claims of a Frigate that could take on a Star Destroyer was a claim that would excite anyone with even a basic knowledge of starships. Of course, the gentlemen tempered his claims before proceeding with another novel idea...a Sentinel program. Personally, the Sith did not know much about the Sentinels of yore; but the concept was sound. Experienced, deadly droids would make or break any engagement.

And thus did the Vicelord clasp his hands together. "Well met, Mr. Hansol. Firstly, you have my sincerest thanks for the pledge of your support. Next...I will personally propose that the Viceroyalty pass a research bill in the hopes of assisting in the funding of your Sentinel program; in addition to any novel ideas proposed by the Trade Barony. What you have suggested is far too exceptional to sit on, we must and will act on this immediately. Welcome to the Trade Barons."

With that said, the Vicelord then turned his attention to [member="Xero Wran"]. His proposal was one just as integral to a nation as a solid, standing military. Without a stable and consistent workforce, the Confederacy would never hope to achieve its greatest aspirations - or even function as a modern nation. For that reason, the proposal of GLC was a godsent, for they were an answer to the question of prolonged stability.

"Councilor Wran, allow me to begin by thanking you for joining this assembly and your marvellous proposal. Any nation that has, and will, stand the test of time has answered the question of stability. Of Infrastructure. Of Labor. The entity that you represent is exactly what this nation requires to thrive, both now and moving forward. We would be honored to accept the services of the Galactic General Labor Corps and to forge a strong, lasting relationship. Thank you, again, for your pledge; and welcome to the Trade Barons."

With that said, the Vicelord quieted himself as to allow those who had yet to present have the floor.

[member="Xero Wran"], [member="Holowan Industries"], [member="Sila"], [member="Chek Zun"], [member="Zenva Vrotoa"], [member="Lord Mettallum"], [member="Galven Hansol"]

 

[Sila]

Sila rose to her feet to speak her mind on the matter. "I am Dr. Sila Blaire of Csillian Laboratories." she began. She had an idea that her company had not been heard of by people this far from her homeworld. "At Csillian Laboratories we do extensive research and development on diseases, viruses, medicines, and medicinal technology." she continued. Sila then pulled out a vial with a strange yellow liquid in it from between her breasts and held it up for all to see. "This is an experimental drug known as PX-114. Our scientists have taken to calling it Valkyrium. Just one dose of this can turn any soldier of yours into a professional killing machine." Sila then returned the vial to it's former hiding place. "That is just one of the many successful creations from Csillian Laboratories. Should the Confederacy accept us, we will work day and night to bring the people of the Confederacy into a new age of better health, better lives, and a brighter future." Sila smiled after her speech was followed by small applause from the others in the room. She sat back down and smiled gently towards Darth Metus, awaiting his response.

[member="Darth Metus"] | [member="Xero Wran"] | [member="Holowan Industries"] | [member="Chek Zun"] | [member="Zenva Vrotoa"] | [member="Lord Mettallum"] | [member="Galven Hansol"]