First Order of Business (open to First Order, non-FO characters need PM for invite)

[Dunames Lopez]

Dunames always seemed to be on the lookout for more opportunities to expand her business. For some reason, Bespin Direct seemed to mostly fly to the major tourist traps of the galaxy, of which Bespin was the only one in First Order territory, unless Hoth was also First Order property. Several First Order officials, including the Governor of Bespin (whatever rank s/he held, be it Commissioner, Governor or Moff, but most likely one of the latter two), whose office was, in practice, coterminous with that of the Baron Administrator of Cloud City, shared a booth inside the Cloud City Grand Theatre, to which she was invited. Due to the dress code in effect at the Grand Theater, she had no choice but to buy a black, longer dress onboard the Eriadu-Bespin flight that she took to get to Cloud City. Even though she didn't like Galmia that much as a manufacturer of high fashion, she happily forked 13,400 credits for the dress. After all, as a newly-appointed Tourism Commissioner, she was going to be introduced to the high society of Bespin, and the First Order in general.

There is only one way to do better business than Bespin Direct in First Order space without resorting to underhanded tactics. Bespin Direct may well be a spaceline that doesn't stop caring, or The Gateway to First Order space but Bespin Direct only flies to Bespin in FO space (or Hoth if Hoth is in FO space), she thought, before setting foot in Cloud City after booking a Pullman-class ticket onboard a Star Tours flight from Tomorrowland Starport. She seems to mix up Tomorrowland and Eriadu so often as to think both terms were interhcangeable in her mind (as they were in Star Tours operation). Bespin Direct doesn't seem to do much to advance the interests of the First Order. In the terminal, she was just one of 125 passengers that deboarded flight 79, Eriadu to Bespin, of which there were 16 in Pullman class, waiting for ground transportation.

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

 

[Marzena Vaas]

The doors of the Grand Theatre were not yet open to the public, but tonight they would be graced with lively company, as the performing arts venue was currently booked for a private gathering. With the opera season about to start, it was the perfect time to promote the theater and welcome the members of high society, officers, and other First Order officials. Marzena Choi sat in a private booth that overlooked the stage, listening to the Diva Anastasiya Vicuska practicing below. Not only was Marzena welcomed at the theater due to her celebrity status, she was also a premier benefactor, and friend of the current director. She sat for a few moments, enjoying the time alone, for it wouldn’t be long before the honored guests would arrive.

When the Diva’s aria came to a haunting close, Marzena stood and joined in the applause scattered about the auditorium. Even though it had merely been a practice session, the Diva was quite skilled, and would surely draw many out to enjoy a night of opera. Marzena approached the staircase, her gloved hand slid easily along the ornate handrail as she began her descent. The celebrity’s wardrobe was well suited for nights like this, and this evening she had chosen a dark red dress, the fine satin had a lovely sheen in the lights. The neckline of her halter-style gown swooped a bit low, giving just a hint of skin, but remaining tasteful. Marzena’s dark hair was set into glamorous waves, and pulled gently to one side, where they cascaded over her shoulder.

“Miss Choi, might I have a word?”

Marzena paused, stopping halfway down the stairs and looked back to see the director approaching.

“Good evening, Dimitri,” She smiled brightly. “What is it?”

“I heard a rumor that there is a new Commissioner of Tourism attending tonight, is that true?”

She nodded a few times, noticing the way the man’s dark eyes seemed to wander about her body. Marzena cleared her throat rather obviously to make his gaze snap back to meet hers.

“That’s right,” Marzena nodded, continuing down the stairs with Dimitri Mishkoll at her side. “So, we should make a good first impression.”

As Marzena understood it, there was also a possibility for her to join an advertising campaign for a new tour line. Of course, there would be more details to follow, once she had met [member="Dunames Lopez"]. Her eyes were on the door, where guests were now beginning to filter through. She took up a spot near the bottom of the stairs, looking confident and nonchalant, but she was really waiting to see if the stately form of [member="Ludolf Vaas"] would enter, for she had been looking forward to seeing him.

 

[Dunames Lopez]

Star Tours flew to Cloud City because even people from the Tomorrowland region on Eriadu would want to go gamble away in the clouds, or otherwise enjoy the arts. And, of course, she was able to get a taxi to the Grand Theatre on a cloud car. But she knew that First Order civilian officials are sometimes a little... vain. Not as vain as some tenors or sopranos, called primo uomo (if male) or prima donna (if female), that she knew all across the gossip magazines she has been reading onboard the-Force-knows-how-many Star Tours flights, but still. And that other passengers could even attempt to talk to her about these, even though she was otherwise uninterestd in gossip. Marzena was mostly known in First Order territory, but she appeared on Eriadu gossip magazines from time to time. Unluckily for her, there was no limousine skiff available (they were all used by tourist groups that had at least six people in them) so she had to make do with a cloud car.

"To the Grand Theatre please"

"That would be 19 credits"

She had a datapad ready with all the possible planets she could be asking for, and Bespin Direct isn't flying to any of them other than, well, Bespin. She grew suspicious of that spaceline but she needed clear evidence to act against Bespin Direct, such as evidence that Bespin Direct is actually a Resistance front. Then again, there were the Knights of Ren, the Army or the Navy for such things. Probably the Army or the Knights of Ren if they were to catch a Resistance spy before it could leave Bespin. At that point, she could order the liquidation of Bespin Direct's assets but without proof there is no way she could act on that.

Upon arriving, understandably a little bit of a close call, at the Grand Theatre, she had to put her belongings to storage, alongside any coat or extraneous accessory, like a blaster rifle or a taser pistol, since no weapons were allowed inside the booths. But the auditorium was not yet open to the public, and she knew she arrived on time, wearing an expensive dress that could be worth three stormtroopers' equipment suites. Speaking of stormtroopers, two stormtroopers escorted her to the main staircase of the Grand Theatre, which promised a wonderful night at the opera to her.

[member="Marzena Choi"] [member="Ludolf Vaas"]

 

[Clovis Torcularis]

As a Disciple of the Beyond, and future bearer of the title Ren, I had been dispatched as an undercover agent for the First Order. My mission, simple as they came, was to merely observe and report. For that, I was to dress as a commoner, minus my mask naturally, playing the role of the rich, snobby businessman. Sadly, for my role to be complete, I had to leave my lighstaber behind but with the Darkside of the Force growing stronger within me daily, I was far from powerless.

Gatherings and people meeting was not my strong suit, but after a couple of infused drinks I began to grow more comfortable with my surroundings, and those that haunted it. I strayed from the more intense political talks, but melting myself to those that had spoke of the First Order and their holdings. The First Order's influence may not be as powerful as it should in these parts, but the respect factor was there none-the-less. Slowly I mingled into a group of highly dresses individuals when the elder of the group halted his speech, looking me up and down with a curious eye.

"Forgive me, but I believe we have not met one another's company yet, he said extending his right hand out. Taking his offered hand in my own right hand hand, I said, "Marius Forteen." I felt a strong grip from the elder's hand as he replied, "A pleasure to meet you Mt. Forteen. I am Heduu Hedeek, owner of Hedeek Shipping. What sins have you committed to bring you to this...uh.....gathering?" While I struggled with a proper response, he motioned for the waiter to scurry over with a fresh round of drinks. When Mr. Hedeek noticed I couldn't join him and his associates in a toast, due to my mask, he said, "Forgive me for prying, but your mask, how did you come about such an ugly contraption?"

My mask, something I'm very fond of, was not one designed for conversational starters, but a means for me to live. Holding my angst anger in check, because afterall I didn't want to blow my cover, I allowed Mr. Hedeek to continue living as I politely replied, "An unfortunate reminder of a poorly thought out adventure some time ago." Mr. Heddek reared back and unleashed a spine cringing laugh. When he stopped assaulting everyone's skill of listening, he said, "A fine story I wish for you to indulge me with sometime."

 

[Dunames Lopez]

The stormtroopers escorted Dunames, commenting on how unfair it is that they don't get to spend a night at the opera, even at the topmost booth, and also how expensive is the clothing the patrons wear. And they make it through a throng of well-heeled patrons, some of which wearing high-heeled shoes, while others, like Dunames, did not. Apex, Brint, Galmia, these were names that disgusted the stormtroopers, especially after one of them commented on how they didn't get to even wear their dress uniforms on duty at such a location, even with a few First Order VIPs in attendance for today's night at the opera. They had no idea what these talks that were to take place soon were about; tourism, and economic policy in general were foreign notions to these stormtroopers. Nevertheless, the stormtroopers were careful not to startle or to push other people just to get her to the booth where she would spend the night and, for sleep, at a deluxe suite at Holiday Towers.

A masked Disciple of the Beyond was there next to one of the people the stormtroopers were taking Dunames to, and all of the occupants of the booth appear to be enjoying drinks. But to her, one that traveled about the galaxy, her favorite seems to be Jawa juice. And, once Mr. Hedeek was done with one of his glasses of Jawa juice, which Dunames could tell apart by smell, he turned his attention to her. "Forgive me, but I believe we have not met one another's company yet either." Mr. Hedeek said while extending his hand, much like he did to Clovis previously. "Dunames Lopez"

"A pleasure to meet you, Mrs. Lopez. I am Heduu Hedeek, owner of Hedeek Shipping. The last guest that came here had a mask that seemingly reminded him of some misadventure or something like that. What brought you to First Order space, Mrs. Lopez?"

"Business, and also I was appointed commissioner of tourism. First Order authorities noticed that tourism in First Order space is highly vulnerable. If the Resistance was to recapture Bespin, First Order tourism would be crippled. Plus Bespin Direct is not helping here; that company mostly keeps to the big tourist traps of the galaxy, like Hoth, Coruscant, Naboo, Endor, Yavin IV... no flights whatsoever from Bespin to other First Order worlds with that company. In addition, we could use this tour as a propaganda exercise"

Lipsec... lipstick and lipsync are the two things people think about Lipsec as long as crime is kept out of the equation.

[member="Clovis Torcularis"] [member="Marzena Choi"] [member="Ludolf Vaas"]

 

[Marzena Vaas]

“Are you waiting for someone?” Came a male voice from her left.

Marzena didn’t need to turn and look to see who it was. It was Jean Paul Renaud, one of her closest friends from Dargul. Jean Paul was known for his fashion company JPR and had much success with his collection of high end hand bags, and now he had recently moved to Bespin to launch a line of couture gowns. He had been convinced by Marzena to make the move to First Order space, and had joined the fold of loyalists in the First Artist Guild.

“Maybe,” Marzena lifted her shoulders in a small shrug.

“Come now, Marz,” Jean Paul rolled his eyes. Tonight he was sporting a trendy tuxedo and a long, dramatic cloak over his shoulders. His blonde hair was worn large and coiffed for the night’s occasion. “I have heard the rumors.” He said leaning in slightly, there was a knowing smile on his face.

The celebrity waved down a glass of champagne, and instead of addressing her friend, she took a sip from the flute. Though her expression remained quite neutral, there was a hint of a smile in her dark eyes.

“So, you haven’t told me anything about him yet. I’m highly offended.” He said loftily, nudging Marzena with his elbow.

Together the two friends began to move through the crowd in the foyer, both of them smiling and greeting other guests as they went. And though it appeared that they were simply exchanging pleasantries, they were still carrying on with their conversation, it was a skill that they had honed over the course of many parties.

“You know, there have always been rumors about my love life.” Marzena finally spoke, “What makes you think they’re true this time?”
Marzena shot him a look, but her friend merely shook his head, he was not convinced.

“Well, I am supposed to greet our new Tourism Commissioner tonight... she should be around here somewhere.” She said, her eyes now wandering about the crowd.

[member="Dunames Lopez"],

 

[Dunames Lopez]

"Please, I would like to hear the details about that tour for another time; there is a time for opera and there is a time for business" Mr. Hedeek told Dunames before an additional stormtrooper brings her to another booth where at least two fashionable people were to be found. They both appear to wear 10,000+-credit clothing.

And so she passed by another booth to get to that booth containing Marzena, one or two gentlemen in First Order dress uniforms, and, of course, the ladies: a few of them reminded her of Force-users, one of these ladies reminding her of [member="Taeli Raaf"], only wearing an expensive dress, and another Mirialan young lady that was wearing an equally expensive navy blue Galmia dress, but that face was most famous for being in a Force-user in a history book. A world of opulent clothing she sunk into, that she may not think about it when she piloted or boarded Star Tours flights herself. Once the stormtrooper stops, Dunames instantly recognizes one of the occupants of the booth.

"Mrs. Choi, I am Dunames Lopez, the new tourism commissioner. I've heard so much about you on the gossip magazines I've read, especially on those flights from Eriadu. They do not always talk about the latest in musical trends, I know, but I've heard that you have a lot of talent for music and that you're famous across First Order territory"

[member="Marzena Choi"] [member="Clovis Torcularis"] [member="Ludolf Vaas"]

 

[Clovis Torcularis]

"Storytelling should be reserved for children, even this tale you wish to hear can make the monsters that loom under beds seem placid in contrast," I replied to the shipping guru. The reason I wore this mask was not a tale I hoped to tell anyone, not because of what had behooved me, but because I was shamed by my youthful misconceptions. Ignorant youth thinking not only led me to the beast I had become, but led me to a life that I would never had chosen for myself. In time, which I knew would land me within the First Order, had been forced upon me before I was truly ready to accept such a horrific fate.

"You have been more than cordial, sir. So I will sate your craving with a brief outing of my life," I said through my hidden ruined lips. "There are those that seek adventure, foolish in mind that they can repel any unforeseen events. And then there are those that indulge in such exercises that they are blind to consequences. For me, Mr. Heddek, I fall into the latter group."

Mr. Heddek shot me a satisfying smile, then to my surprise ushered the others away. "Come, walk with me." Mr. Heddek led me from the prying eyes and ears of the others, stopping within a threshold that led to one of the unknown corridors. "I've spent many of my youthful years building up my company. It has become quite profitable for me and for those that do business with me. However, son, the progress hasn't come without its issues. Mainly, pirates." I raised my right hand to halt his speech, then added, "Forgive me sir, but I'm not here to bring your company under the protection..." "Of the First Order's protective sword," he finished. I stood somewhat shocked.

"Of course that's not your agenda. But please don't insult my wisdom. I know who you are, or rather I suspect who you are," he said before taking another pull from his drink. I stood in silence. "Have you ever been to the desert world of Tattooine? I took a step back reaching for my absent lightsaber, only to watch him brazenly place his left hand on my right shoulder. "That mask, I've seen it before. More to the point, I've seen you before. You are a problem solver, more to the point again, you are someone that can not only help me but your First Order as well."

"And how do you foresee me helping you, which in turn, can help the First Order?"

"I'm old. I'm not as fit as I once was. I'm dying son. Everything I've amassed would fall to ruin in the absence of my life. I have no heirs, only greedy associates that would, giving the opportunity, run my beloved company into the belly of a sarlacc. You, however, can see that my company and your First Order can find common ground."

I ran my left hand down my mask, struggling to comprehend where he was going with this. What could I possibly do to ensure his company and the First Order could find what he calls 'common ground'?



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

 

[Marzena Vaas]

“You can’t hide the truth forever; all rumors come to an end one way or another.” Jean Paul continued to chide her as they made their way up the stairs. “And you know how very well connected I am in the world of gossip.”

Marzena knew all too well, but for now she would continue to leave Jean Paul in his state of frustrated curiosity. As they began to move towards her booth for the evening, she took note of a masked man speaking alone with a well-known business man. Marzena knew that she’d met the older gentleman once before, but his name escaped her. She offered the two men a brief but friendly smile as she continued on her way, Jean Paul sweeping along beside her.

The booth was empty for a moment, and the two friends took a moment to gaze down upon the stage. It was dark for now, but soon would be illuminated and filled with the music of the house orchestra. She had been about to ask Jean Paul about his current plans for his clothing line, but they were joined by more guests; their booth seemed to fill quickly. Marzena played her part well, making sure to smile brightly and engage in the usual small talk. Her dark eyes spotted a woman in an expensive looking gown moving her way, and she guessed that this must be [member="Dunames Lopez"].

Marzena blinked a few times when their new tourism commissioner mentioned that she had learned about her from the gossip columns. Well, there was certainly a lot of colorful information in those articles, and most of it was far from the truth.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Commissioner Lopez.” Marzena said, extending a graceful gloved hand. “I’m very flattered that you have heard of me, but please don’t believe everything you read in the holo-tabloids.” She said with a lighthearted laugh.

“I’ve heard that you have some grand things in store for First Order space,” She said, before pausing to take a sip of her champagne. “I’m eager to hear your plans.”

[member="Clovis Torcularis"]

 

[Dunames Lopez]

"It's about time we set up a tour of all major First Order worlds. This operation is codenamed Propaganda Tour; we have since realized that First Order tourism is vulnerable since it depends almost entirely on one planet, Bespin. Lipsec is the next best thing, especially for those who are entertainment-minded or vanity-minded. But we need to have other things to show, for example pageants or some other festive activities when the Tour is on a given planet. That way we'll show that life among the First Order can be good and orderly at the same time"

Dunames is afraid to show how vain can Lipsec residents get if two of the things scheduled on it for the Lipsec part both relate to fashion and cosmetics. To visit the Kartika Supermall for shopping, the largest shopping mall in the southwestern Outer Rim, after visiting the Galactic Cosmetics Museum... she needed to think of landmarks or events to visit or organize on Vassek, Virgilia 7, Sump or Dosuun because, alongside Lipsec, these four worlds were going to be visited. And who can forget about Bespin or Hoth when organizing such a grand tour of First Order space (even if Hoth isn't technically First Order territory)? On Bespin the tourists will have their dose of gambling and nightlife, as well as a glimpse at the high life. And the Fantasy in the Sky fireworks pageant, or should she say, pyrotechnics competition, since the Fantasy in the Sky fireworks pyrotechnics competition attracts the best pyrotechnics show designers in the galaxy.

"Before I may continue, I may be wondering whether Kartika Supermall or the Galactic Cosmetics Museum would be acceptable, and whether you may have visited Lipsec in the first place. For me tourism isn't simply about sightseeing, it's also another vehicle for propaganda. Please forgive my lack of familiarity with tourist attractions on the other First Order worlds, but I would like some suggestions for what would be interesting to see, do or visit on Vassek, Virgilia 7, Sump or Dosuun. One last thing: the marketing materials of the final product will not have any explicit mention of First Order however"

"Don't forget about Lanteeb, especially if we win!" a stormtrooper pointed out.

Dunames has the concept, there are details to be ironned out but she is rather new at her position of tourism commissioner. She knew that luring tourists to two of the big tourist traps of the galaxy is the way to go to make them visit the other five (or six if Lanteeb is successfully captured) She needs time to fit into her role.

[member="Marzena Choi"] [member="Ludolf Vaas"] [member="Clovis Torcularis"] [member="Valessia Brentioch"]

 

[Valessia Brentioch]

"Really wish you'd stop fussing already, Val." Edra's rough voice pierced through the walls, kark it'd pierce through an orbital strike if it had to. "You look fine."

Valessia turned to face Edra as she slammed her hand on the button. The washroom's doors swooshed and there before Edra stood the Scion of House Brentioch, decked in a lovely gown. "This is highly inappropriate."


"You're attending a function, it looks fine." Edra remarks. "Hey, Cin, come check out boss lady."

"Are you kidding? I've been checking her out." Cin comments much to Valessia's chagrin. There was a whistle, followed by a waggle of brows. "I can help you out of that, you know."

Valessia slapped Cinica's hand away. "Later." There's a hiss, as she turns to look herself in the mirror. "One of you zip me."

Edra wasn't about to try to beat Cin away from such a duty. She watches with a careful eye as Valessia finishes getting dressed, they had been docked at Cloud City for awhile now. After San Guinem's launch the Brentaalan stayed to take care of some business. Mostly securing more resources from those who had attended the show. Though now she would not only be representing San Guinem but also her parents' company Luxem Velum; the premiere luxury liner company. As it boasted state of the art facilities with hand made craftsman ship. To be direct, they manufactured luxury liners - Luxem didn't punch out the most or even a lot of them. Quality over quantity which made them very, very hard to come by in any size of vessel.

The Zabrak watches as Valessia catches Cin's hand. "Down girl." Edra warns, "she'll be back and you two can play Kaas City Housewives later."

Taking in a deep breath, she exhales one last time. "Paddy!" She calls for her personal droid.

They could all hear him walk toward Valessia's private chambers. "Yes your worship?"

"I'd like for you to make a few calls to our new investors, double check everything - and let me know about that shipment of glistaweb." She tells him, "and do I look alright?"

"YES!" Cin and Edra shout in unison, so much that even Paddy is startled. "O-Of course your worship, you look magnificent as always."

"And whichever one of you programmed him to say worship, had better undone do it before I undo you." She threatens with a finger to both of their chests.

Cin's brows waggle once more, "is that a promise?"

Valessia playfully hits Cin in the shoulder. "Behave."

"Edra, are my guards ready?" She asks now that she's crossed toward the airlock.

"The boys are waiting for you on the other side."

She nods in acknowledgment and steps out of the airlock, and once more finds herself within the fray of Cloud City. Two Chiss officers greet her, they came recommended by the staff from her party. They were dressed with her fabrics and in older Imperial design that hearkened back to the Rebellion-era.

Spoiler

Here on Bespin, Valessia felt she could breathe there was no pressure to volunteer herself to do anything more than whatever it was she had on her mind. Brentaal IV on the other hand, she knew that both One Sith and even the rebels had to be appeased. Tight political situations often left her bothered - at least tonight, she could relax. Having extended her stay here in Cloud City afforded the Scion and opportunity to observe the people and their behaviors. Her escorts brought her to the Grand Theater, and they were met by two more Chiss men in the same uniforms - accompanied by two Yinchorri force users. Also dressed in San Guinem produced fabrics.

Spoiler

The two Yinchorri had come on Cincia's credits and recommendations. Security for Valessia usually wasn't quite so tight. However, she wanted to show off her fabrics, her designs and what better way to do that than with men you could dress up, and who could protect you. Though admittedly the two force users might've been a touch too much, still - she spent more time adjusting the capes and hoods, asking them both if the fit was alright.

Opera. Valessia knew her operas, she on occasion enjoyed it herself, but tonight she would be bored of it. She knew that much, if only because it was a private gathering and she had to be on her best behavior. With her security team of six plus herself, the brunette was shown to her own booth that could accommodate them all. Two of the four Chiss stood with their backs to her facing the entrance of the booth itself. The other two sat beside her, while the force users were split with one standing with his back to her, and the other was out in the hall with his arms folded and back to the curtain that separated him and the other three men.

When she spots Marzena Choi in a different booth, she turns to the two Chiss men. "Hold my train." As she proceeds to stand and they, escort her down. She takes the one Yinchorri standing in the hall with her as the other three security detail are ordered to stay behind. After a few moments she's arrived at the booth and notices that it is already crowded. "Stand guard." She orders the two holding her train as she takes part of it in her own hand, while the lone Yinchorri knocks along the frame of the booth.

Valessia took the moment to look down the hall, noticing a masked man and another gentlemen speaking but then turns her attention toward the rather crowded booth. "Please." She motions to the crowd, and the Yinchorri only stares at a few of the other patrons packed in the booth, and decidedly they leave. "Thank you." She says to him and greets Marzena. "Lady Choi, how lovely to see you again."

Spoiler

[member="Dunames Lopez"], [member="Marzena Choi"], [member="Clovis Torcularis"], [member="Ludolf Vaas"]

 

[Marzena Vaas]

Marzena listened intently to the details provided by the Commissioner, and she liked what she heard. It did seem like a clever idea to begin introducing people to other First Order planets. The celebrity was well known on Bespin, and her name had spread to reach the other worlds within the grasp of the First Order, but Marzena herself had visited only a few of them. She liked to remain near Cloud City, as it was her home, and she wanted for nothing while she was there. However, she had found herself visiting Dosuun quite frequently as of late. But she never saw much more than the four walls of a certain General’s private residence – of course, no one else needed to know about that.

“Lipsec?” She asked, tilting her head to the side. It was a world that she had heard of, but had never had the chance to visit. When Ms. Lopez mentioned that it was well suited for those that are entertainment-mined or vanity-minded, she had a feeling that she would fit in. “I haven’t been there before,” She answered with a nod. “However, if there is a Cosmetics Museum, then I will certainly consider paying a visit.” After all, there were few things in the galaxy that she loved more than makeup.

Marzena paused to consider Ms. Lopez’s inquiry about other attractions within the First Order’s space. Well, she was certainly not interested in going to Sump, and she couldn’t imagine many that were... She had heard that there were some lovely vineyards in the vast wine country on Skye. And then a man’s voice called out Lanteeb, she couldn’t help but shiver at the thought. She had performed in Lantibba City, and her concert had been interrupted by alien terrorists. It had been a very harrowing day for the celebrity; she had no desire to return there.

She had been about to make mention of the vineyards, but happened to see another group approaching their booth. Marzena’s smile grew wider when she saw that it was Valessia Brentioch of San Guinem Textum. She and General Vaas had recently been treated to an impressive fashion show put on by Valessia’s textile company. It seemed Valessia had arrived with quite an entourage, and a few well-placed looks from her guards had seen most of the other occupants of their booth on their way out.

“Good evening, Lady Brentioch,” Marzena moved to greet her, placing a kiss into the air next to Valessia’s cheek. “I was hoping that our paths would cross again.”

She knew that Jean Paul would love to meet Ms. Brentioch, as he was just beginning to source fabric and notions for his line of couture gowns. A quick glance to the side revealed that the designer was engaged in a conversation of his own, and he may have been turning a cold shoulder in Marzena’s direction, as she had refused to satisfy his curiosity about her new man. She gestured politely to her side, figuring that she would begin introductions.

“May I present Dunames Lopez, our new Commissioner of Tourism. She was just bringing up to speed on her plans to expand tourism here in First Order space. I must say, she has some wonderful ideas.”

[member="Valessia Brentioch"], [member="Dunames Lopez"], [member="Clovis Torcularis"], [member="Ludolf Vaas"]

 

[Dunames Lopez]

"Sump was probably a bad idea, but it seemed as though dolce vita was the order of the day for that tour. So I welcomed a tour of the vineyards on Skye, and Skye was the First Order world most like Naboo, where one could vacation on a lake retreat, too. Or buy fine wine, cognac or other spirits. Vassek? Perhaps Grievous Castle, but that's all I can think about when it comes to that system"

Actually, the castle was on the third moon of Vassek, and Virgillia 7 was a place where tobacco and other luxury products were made. Certainly this tour would advance First Order interests but it's otherwise nothing out of the ordinary, unless you called going to multiple resorts in one tour innovative. But it certainly qualifies as deluxe though. How about Rapture?

"And who could forget about the First Order Council Chambers? But was it a good idea to have tourists tour the First Order Council Chambers or would they have to visit other landmarks on Dosuun? Sure, politically, Dosuun was no Coruscant, but it was the power center of the First Order: Kalast's palace may or may not be open to the public, or perhaps the ruins of the old Joris Prison?"

"Don't forget about Lanteeb!"

"I always forget about Lanteeb, but Lanteeb, due to its impoverishment, and the humanocentrism of its residents, has evaded the beach resort circuit over even Dubrillion, let alone Glee Anselm"

She might wonder why that particular stormtrooper would keep talking about Lanteeb like clockwork. Has that stormtrooper, 98-3-FM, been rotated out of duty on Lanteeb? Was he court-martialed due to his actions on Lanteeb? All that she could remember about that stormtrooper was that he was the only survivor of an assault on the Seventh Heaven Resort. Then Dunames turned to Valessia. While she would certainly stand out as a fashion icon on JanFathal or Lanteeb, here in the Grand Theatre, she wouldn't stand out nearly as much because most of the female attendees are wearing expensive clothing, some of them wearing clothes that are almost as expensive as a turbolaser, and the most expensive of these ladies wear clothes worth as much as a dual turbolaser turret (ca. 20-25,000 credits), which Valessia gave the impression of wearing, at least to Dunames. San Guinem Textum, Apex Clothing, JPR, and of course, the two mainstays that are sold on most Star Tours flights, Brint and Galmia Pepe, were the manufacturers of turbolaser-priced clothing she knew about.

"Valessia Brentioch, I presume? I believe that, for the price one has to pay to get a dress like that, you would be able to buy a spare turbolaser turret; it's certainly not for the faint of heart or the unrefined. Please apologize if I meant it the wrong way."

To Dunames, turbolaser-priced clothing was synonymous with high-end fashion. She could even say what species of turbolaser turrets she would be able to buy with that, but she kept to herself because she fears rubbing Valessia the wrong way. And even her knowledge of turbolasers would be dwarfed by that of Marcia, whom she met on Ringo Vinda when she first ordered ships as a start-up company. If she was talking to a fashionista that manned, maintained or sold heavy weapons for a living, or maybe even operated a turbolaser-armed ship, OK, she could probably get away with telling a fashion maven that her clothing was worth a turbolaser turret. But since Valessia's business was about fashion instead, she couldn't tell.

[member="Marzena Choi"] [member="Valessia Brentioch"] [member="Clovis Torcularis"] [member="Ludolf Vaas"]

 

[Valessia Brentioch]

Valessia narrowed her gaze for a moment deciding what her next move would be as she sized the woman up. Her first instinct was to turn straight toward Marzena and ignore the woman completely. "A pleasure." She said through her smile keeping her hands at her side. "You presume correctly." She'd been down this road before, with the many functions her parents would present her to. "This old thing?" Valessia questions as she looks down at her gown, "well I wouldn't assume to know, quality is such a hard thing to assess."

"Lady Choi, I am delighted that our paths have crossed again." She now turns her attention toward Marzena Choi. "We should arrange for tea in the future."

Refocusing her attention on the Commissioner. "Commissioner Lopez, is it? Do enlighten me on your ideas." She sweeps her train behind her with a swift motion of her hand. Her guards stay close as she takes a seat, Valessia's eyes remained on Dunames.

[member="Dunames Lopez"], [member="Marzena Choi"]

 

[Dunames Lopez]

Dunames turned to Valessia, after having exposed the Master Plan to Marzena. Now that she had Valessia's attention, she could expose the Master Plan, why the Master Plan was drafted in the first place, and finally the objectives the Master Plan hopes to achieve, both within the First Order and outside it.

"Mrs. Brentioch, I have to say that the current setup of the First Order tourism industry is, simply put, vulnerable. Too much of the First Order tourism rests on one planet: Bespin. We have attractions lined up for Lipsec, Vassek, Virgillia 7, Skye, Dosuun and Lanteeb if we win on Lanteeb, and we intend to fly to them in a bid to show non-First Order people that First Order life can be a good life"

"You promised me the management of the Seventh Heaven beach resort on Lanteeb, pending some conditions" the stormtrooper assigned to watch over the booth told Dunames. Suddenly Dunames turned to 98-3-FM.

"One of the conditions was the inclusion of the Seventh Heaven beach resort if Lanteeb became a First Order world by the time you complete the hospitality management training. Now, I understand that you do not want to be betrayed by the First Order higher-ups, but that's all I can do at this point. If we lose on Lanteeb, I dare not imagine what will happen to you"

98-3-FM was so promised because he was the only survivor of an attack on a Resistance nest located in the Seventh Heaven beach resort, and he thought he could advance the interests of the First Order by bringing back the resort to its former glory. By now, he has been rotated out of Lanteeb and he is now studying hospitality management, while still on part-time duty. But he knew that, however brilliant the Master Plan is, if the higher-ups (governors, Moffs, and even the Cabinet, headed by the Grand Moff) have concerns, the implementation may be severely affected since Dunames is actually pretty green within the First Order power structure. But she had Star Tours as a trump card to operate even from and to Galactic Alliance territory: Star Tours is officially neutral. Visibly irritated by 98-3-FM's constant parroting of the promise made back on Lanteeb, Dunames faced Valessia again.

"The Master Plan calls for all the major First Order worlds to be part of a grand tour, as well as ancillary vacation packages to each of them, but, if the First Order Council would rather develop tourism on a piecemeal basis, I have to say that Lipsec is going to be prioritized; it could become a major fashion capital of the galaxy, whose fame would extend much further than First Order territory alone. The Governor of Lipsec is one that would love nothing better than a tourism boom"

For some reason Dunames was appointed over some other First Order loyalist, primarily due to her experience of the travel and tourism industry. She knew that many within the First Order youth see civil service as a rather unglamorous position, which is at best a necessary evil, especially among Force-users, who would be rather serve in the Ubiquitorate (if light-sided) or as a Disciple of the Beyond (if dark-sided). Commissioners with responsibilities extending as far as industrial development were appointed fresh from high school (or university for those who interned in university); some governors of minor planets were about as old as Dunames was. She might incur the wrath of the Governor of Sump by snubbing Sump from the Touristic Master Plan but the Governor of Sump was perhaps more focused on other economic dossiers at this time.

"On a sidenote, is there anything Star Tours can do for Brentioch Luxem Velum, like supply chain management? Especially delivery of raw materials and delivery of the finished products?"

[member="Marzena Choi"] [member="Valessia Brentioch"]

 

[Marzena Vaas]

Oh no, she didn’t... Marzena’s mouth dropped open just slightly when she heard Dunames comment on Valessia’s dress. She brought her gloved hand to her mouth and feigned a small cough in order to cover her surprise. And she was very thankful that she had not been sipping champagne at the moment, or else she would have surely choked. In high society it went without saying that most women spent large sums on their finery, but it was frowned upon to make such comments about those costs. Perhaps Ms. Lopez was simply a very forward and outspoken woman. At any rate, Marzena was cringing on the inside, as it seemed their booth had filled with a bit of awkward tension. However, Valessia seemed to smooth out the situation with a nicely worded response.

“Tea would be lovely, Lady Brentioch.” Marzena said with a quick nod in response to Valessia.

Of course, the bit of drama had attracted Jean Paul’s attention and he drew closer once more, ending up at Marzena’s elbow. He nudged her gently to let her know that he was there.

“What’s going on?” He whispered to Marzena, as Commissioner Lopez spoke to Valessia.

“Not now,” Marzena said quietly, brushing Jean Paul aside, her attention back on Dunames’ explanation.

So, she was also planning a beach resort on Lanteeb? It was an interesting notion, as there was very little to draw people to the planet as it currently was. Whether or not it would be enough to lure Marzena back there would remain to be seen.

[member="Dunames Lopez"], [member="Valessia Brentioch"]

 

[Valessia Brentioch]

Valessia's own smile was worthy of its own award. It was hard to discern her emotions while she wore it. She listened to this commissioner speak and tell of her plans. She made a note on what this woman presumed would be of interest to her. How she emphasized fashion, as if this was the only thing that held her interest. How one-dimensional she thought and then she offers to help with Velum. "While I appreciate your offer, Ms. Lopez. Excuse me, Commissioner Lopez." The scion of house Brentioch would not even attempt to correct the woman's misuse of titles, Mrs. Brentioch was her mother, she was Valessia. "Luxem Velum is quite comfortable using its own suppliers, and distributors." There was a reason why obtaining a liner of their make was so rare and expensive. They only used the best of everything and obtained them at a cost.

Lipsec was part of the Outer Rim territories, the Koradin sector to be exact, and while she played toward First Order interests. Their interests didn't always play to hers, and she played to win, but what the Commissioner had said didn't fall completely on deaf ears. She knew what this woman was pushing, but she'd have to find another magnet for her work. Valessia had already prolonged her stay in the Outer Rim, on Bespin in fact. Dealing with the aftermath of her otherwise successful show, she would be needed back on Brentaal IV soon enough. Pursing her lips together Valessia responded. "And would there be a guarantee to the populace that their worlds are secure?"

"You see the terrible tragedy of our cause is that there are many factions and while Lipsec might be ideal for fashion , it is also ideal its trade run. Making it a strategic system. Lanteeb on the other hand, no longer holds any value and it has not held any value military in ages." Vassek, oh she knew of Vassek and that certainly held something to her if only because General Grevious had built a castle there. It sent chills down her back, as the Imperial blood within her veins tingled with excitement. "Regardless of which world we prioritze, it would matter not if those living there do not feel as if they're safe enough to travel within their own sector." Dosuun could be argued to be in Wild Space and thus they would or could contend with the scum there. Virgillia 7 felt more like home with how their aristocracy carried themselves. Valessia didn't exactly want to play noble shuffleboard, with their ilk. Although, she might be better suited to do so since it would be the same as playing it at home on Brentaal IV. Skye. Skye piqued her interest but she wouldn't play it out here. "Perhaps." She looks toward Marzena with a knowing gaze. "Perhaps, it would be best to establish a more proper propaganda campaign. There are but a handful of generals within the First Order who look quite attractive in uniform. Trust when I say that many young men and women would more than lend their lives to our cause for vanity's sake."

"The citizens of this sector need to not only feel comfortable but secure, and so to do so we'll need to recruit. We can worry about resorts after they've been properly secured... Although." Valessia's eyes drifted toward the Stormtrooper. "If we were to get a testimony from certain troopers." She looks him over with a wolfish grin. "Telling the populace what they can expect from service to the Order. After all, once you put in your time and complete the proper training why shouldn't you be able to run a resort, or manage a café along the beach. Let us get the denizens within the sector to build each other up, which in turn would mean less work for us."

[member="Dunames Lopez"], [member="Marzena Choi"]

 

[Dunames Lopez]

Valessia raised an issue that wasn't quite under the purview of her duty. While she nevertheless acknowledged that recruiting for the First Order military was important, she did not know a thing about key First Order personnel. That was one of the main roadblocks that Dunames would get thrown in the way by what she termed the "higher-ups". Dosuun, Vassek would probably be prioritized for military recruitment, and, as far as Sump was concerned, as a way out of the planet. She acknowledged that the higher-ranked the spokespeople, the better, so long as any given spokesperson can be used for recruitment, or taking command of recruitment.

"The main problem, as far as I'm concerned, is that I am tasked with only one part of the greater plan, and using vanity as a military recruitment tool is another part in which I have, unfortunately, little knowledge of the inner workings, and all I could do is using what channels Star Tours have at its disposal to carry out recruiting. General Vaas would probably know military personnel better than I would, and which people to use to this end. Or 98-3-FM here could probably tell you about who would be the best bets."

Even if, for some One Sith refugees, it would have meant fleeing a dark-sided faction to serve another, and advertisement materials would be distributed outbound. She turned to 98-3-FM, who was assigned to this very booth for the night. "98-3-FM, or should I say Sergeant Frank Mallidan, would tell you about the perks of military service, even for the enlisted, especially in the impoverished regions of given planets"

"It's a gross misconception that the real perks begin only when people gain commissioned officer ranks. After all, the spoils of combat may very well mean that you could end up with a home or a tract of land captured from enemy territory. Or loot upon which to base the establishment of any business you may dream about. And, once your time has been put in, you will be given a severance package commensurate with your abilities and your service record to establish a home or a business, or to get the education you deserve."

For him to own 49% of Seventh Heaven was an extraordinary diamond in the rough since the resort was worth only about as much as unbuilt land on a planet devoid of military or economic value at the time it was wrested from the Resistance. Star Tours would have to invest a million credits or two to bring the resort back to serviceable standard.

"But for the vanity part, any branch of the First Order military is fair game: army, navy, Ubiqtorate for the NFUs, Knights of Ren for the more dark-sided among Force-users. That is as far as I can say about how military recruiting falls within what my scope of duty is. What I could do, however, is to sign a contract with the First Order for the delivery of any propaganda campaign inside and outside First Order territory"

[member="Valessia Brentioch"] [member="Marzena Choi"] [member="Ludolf Vaas"]

 

[Marzena Vaas]

Marzena and Jean Paul moved to sit down near Ms. Brentioch, the two friends seemed to lean forward in unison to listen to the exchange between Valessia and Dunames. Jean Paul scratched his chin lightly, his lips pursed slightly as if in thought, and next to him, Marzena folded her hands neatly in her lap. This conversation was quickly venturing into territory where she did not feel comfortable commenting. When it came to matters of security and military strategy, she would simply sit silently and listen, these things were best left to the experts. However, when it came to her own safety, she felt very secure wherever she went, but then again, she did have the attention of one of the First Order’s highest ranking generals. No one else had that luxury.

She caught the look that Valessia sent her way, when she suggested a more proper propaganda campaign. Marzena blinked a couple of times, her dark eyelashes fluttering lightly. Had Ms. Brentioch noticed the way Marzena had been looking at General Vaas at her fashion show? There was a dark glint in the woman’s eyes that seemed to say that she had... In any case, Valessia had a very valid point, the sharp figures of men and women in uniform were a tremendous draw.

“Mmm,” she nodded, “I agree.”

For now she would keep her response as simple as possible. But she did remember how [member="Ludolf Vaas"] looked that night on Dosuun when they first met; the sight of him in that dark uniform had played a large part in her attraction to him.

She perked up a bit when Valessia mentioned recruiting; some kind of event could be quite beneficial... and fun. It did seem like a good idea for people hear the testimonials of those that served the First Order, the soldiers that patrolled often did seem a bit ‘faceless’ underneath their helmets. It was easy to forget that there were actual people inside that white armor. As General Vaas had once explained to her, the people did need examples of greatness.

And of course, Marzena was a something of a propaganda figure now. There was more to her than simply being a performer, she was also a living testament to the life one could have in First Order space. Well, there weren’t many that would rise to the level of society that she occupied, but it was something for them to aspire to.

“Well, ladies,” she started with a smile, “I am happy to help in any way I can.”

[member="Dunames Lopez"], [member="Valessia Brentioch"]

 

[Dunames Lopez]

"You will find, Mrs. Brentioch, that many of those currently fighting for the First Order, fight so that they can provide others with a better life. The propaganda campaign is multi-pronged; as I said earlier, military recruitment is just one of these prongs. It's important for new recruits to know what exactly they are defending, and not just fight for an attractive commander"

Every single soldier is a valuable asset, she thought. But 98-3-FM continues to go on about other perks of First Order service while on duty. He seems to focus mostly on the material perks of First Order service. Which is understandable since greed is part of what people commonly associate with dark-sided factions. With Frank facing Valessia and Dunames both at once, he seems ready to talk about a supplemental perk that may affect those who can't afford health insurance. And many prospective soldiers came from families for whom meeting basic needs such as health insurance are a challenge. Attracting working-class kids would be a lot easier if recruiting perks include stuff that will help the family.

"We offer you and your family unparalleled medical insurance coverage; this is the chance for you to make sure that your family will always have access to medical care for the rest of your life; the coverage does not end when you retire from service."

It does, however, end when the servicemember is killed, by which point the severance package is paid out to the family. That's the one caveat he conveniently omitted.

"Sergeant Mallidan, I think I found how you would still serve the First Order if we lose on Lanteeb: you will assist in recruiting for the First Order military. That is, if the generals or admirals approve."

"You shouldn't play the dolce vita card too much for your part in propaganda"

Unlimited medical insurance coverage for life would be of use to just about any prospective recruit, but it is common practice for darksiders to shower would-be recruits with material perks such as healthcare coverage, a severance package commensurate with one's service record as well as the promise of loot from enemy territory.

[member="Marzena Choi"] [member="Valessia Brentioch"]