Faction Shoot for the Stars

[Galaxy Starways]

In the bleakness of the undercity and the sparkling, reconstructed, glass halls of the surface one company on Coruscant had a meteoric rise. A coalition of failing transit companies and manufacturing plants had combined themselves into what would be known as Galaxy Starways - the premier private rail carrier on Coruscant. Basking in the economic resurgence of the Tithe regime the company began to make moves to expand their reach far beyond Coruscant. In order to succeed the company would require enormous support from the Senate, the only body within the Alliance that could cut through the lightyears of regulatory red tape Galaxy Starways would no doubt be challenged with in the future. In order to garner support for their quest for interstellar expansion Galaxy Starways spent a great deal of credits hiring lobbying agents and putting on a fair few banquets culminating in the invitation of the Senate and the executive branch to tour the company's luxury line below the majestic skyscrapers of the Senate District.

As the honored guests began to arrive at the ground level station they would be greeted with an ornate glass dome lined with gilded metals and pristine marble walkways. Their path, barred by two large wooden doors decorated with neat patterns, would be opened by two identical twin Human male attendants who wore the Galaxy Starways service uniform. Notable for their silver buttoned, blue vests over a white shirt, paired with black pants tucked into matching knee-high boots "Welcome to Senate Station, here are your tickets, please proceed towards the platform at your leisure. Should you require any assistance we would be more than happy to oblige you." they both said in a joint greeting and offering of the exclusive tickets. The tickets themselves were a form of thin metal card, no doubt concealing discrete electronics inside, and held the company's name and logo across the front. As the doors swung fully open an Ugnaught conductor, standing on a platform in front of a live band, lifted his brass wand and with a grand motion the whole began to play with skillful finesse.

Spoiler

Some of the finer patrons of the arts would know that some of these members were from the acclaimed Coruscant Philharmonic Orchestra. No sooner than that a light shower of vibrant red petals began to drift down from an unseen set of locations along the rim of the crystal dome. Clearly no expense had been spared for the atmosphere.

No more than a minute's walk away, and clear in view, could be seen the Alliance blue passenger cars level with the platform. Running the length of each car was a golden strip of paint with a engraved GALAXY STARWAYS scroll perfectly spaced out within it. A faint, thin, fog of coolant rose from beneath the carriages of the train which was of a wheel & rail design. More same dressed attendants bustled about making preparations for the delegation. They were a myriad of species; Twi'lek, Human, Zabrak, Pantoran, Mirialan, and Balosar.

Beneath the feet of the delegates was a burnished duratsteel slab, no doubt this was a weapons scanner.

Auteme Dracken Pryce Seto du Couteau Tiresh Kobitana-Draellix Xasha Callisto [Open]

 

[Xasha Callisto]

Constancia​

Location: Senate Station
Objective: Discuss attempts at corporatist overreach
Tags: Galaxy Starways Tiresh Kobitana-Draellix Dracken Pryce Auteme Seto du Couteau

---

This place was wonderful, if you enjoyed massive displays of opulence and extravagance that was, Xasha did, the spectacle was entertaining. Even if she knew it was to try and butter up the Senate for the unveiling of an abomination of corporate overreach. The idea of scrapping planetary accountability for one company when all the rest were bound by local laws could not have been a clearer attempt to gift wrap a monopoly for said company. She would not show her hand just yet though. She had had discussions with her legal team that there was more than enough local apparatus to make operation of such an enterprise on Constancia untenable, even if the Senate handed them a rubber stamp to Bypass planning and business controls.

But anyway, Xasha was a politician and would play the part of the grateful guest, after all the venue was lovely and the quality was exceptional. If someone wanted to offer her an Electrum leaf roast lobster while trying to convince her that a giving one company an insurmountable competitive advantage wouldn't hurt her local industry, then so be it. "Thank you," Xasha politely responded to one of the staff as they handed her a drink, a young Twi'lek female "This is lovely, have you worked here long? I look forward to meeting meeting employers." as the woman closed, Xasha found herself looking to check the woman's Lekku for any strapping, a popular style of headress forced on involuntary workers by some employers, she shouldn't be so suspicious, the server seemed lovely and spoke as if she was happy to be here. She wished her a good evening and carried on further into the station.

An alarm buzzed just ahead of her and a gentleman was escorted to one side to be searched. Xasha lifted up her thought blocking circlet, just a little peek, she wouldn't read their minds but was interested what sort of mood the guards were in while searching the man for weapons. Were they itching for a fight? Or just doing their job peacefully. "interesting," she thought to herself before proceeding into the controlled area herself. She was unarmed so no alarms for her, not unless you include her 6 Inch headpiece which she was sure she could take someone's eye out with.
​

​

 

[Dracken Pryce]

Auteme | Tiresh Kobitana-Draellix | Seto du Couteau | Faith Organa | Galaxy Starways

"Senate station," Dracken said with a healthy mix of awe and speculation. The guests were of a dignified sort, members of high society from all over Coruscant. Senators, corpo types, Old Money, New Money, anyone and everyone who could give Galaxy Starways a leg up in the upcoming senate session where a new bill from one of Starways' pocketed senators somehow made it into the list of discussion topics for that day. Pryce wasn't overly excited for it, in fact he had pretty much already made up his mind. But there were a lot of intricacies to life on Coruscant, and though he had been here for some time now he still had almost no allies in the Senate, save for one-off partnerships. Besides, it would be good to get a ground-level view of how the city was doing.

The casualty reports from the Maw Attack when it came to the undercity were staggering, and going up every day. Most people thought damage to Coruscant, with how many battles had been here over the last thirty or forty years, was quickly fixed. Infrastructure repaired, life continuing as normal for most of the planet. But that was only the upper levels where skyscraper-sized construction droids and a horde of maintenance workers flooded the streets. Down in the undercity, there were still places too dangerous to go not because of gangs but because of ancient volcanoes that still spewed magma, vong-formed mini-jungles filled with monsters and carriers of the vong plague, even monstrous beasts with no eyes and rackghouls if you believed those tales. All of that was from as far back as three, four, or five-hundred years ago. More recent attacks left entire levels decimated and untraversable. Pryce wondered if this train would service those less fortunate like the ones in the undercities, or if it would just be this, the posh and privileged masses of the upper-city levels.

Pryce handed over his blaster when he was asked to be searched and waved forward after a quick scan. The bright red hair of Xasha Callisto poked out from the crowd. He tried to get her attention but was quickly ushered into an extravagant car. Clearly, no expense was spared for this event. A server droid waddled by, drinks balanced perfectly on a silver platter and Pryce wondered if maybe he was being too synical. Corellia needed reliable transport out of Coronet now more than ever. It had taken nearly twenty years for Corellia to get fully back on its feet, or rather for Coronet to get back on its feet. The Wilds were still...well, wild, even though the domes had been removed over a decade ago. Places like Tyrena and Bela Vistal were suffering due to a lack of cheap and reliable ground transportation.

Spoiler

Zark San Tekka SCREW YOU - GREEN AND WHITE BABY

 

[Seto du Couteau]

Seto Du Couteau, Senator of Empress Teta
Location: Coruscant, Senate Distract Station
Action: Look out for a good investment
Attire

It was an utter amazement that something of this type of luxury hadn’t been proposed sooner. Seto had stopped trying to follow trends of nobles, elites and other rich beings for what kind of things they would enjoy. Speed, effectiveness and quality often are good indicators for what sells, but what gets sold at the highest amount might not have any of the three mentioned particularly great or even good.

This particular transport vehicle though was something else entirely, a luxury certainly, but also gave an air of grandeur and importance. The extravagant nature of the welcome and sheer display of wonderful art, clearly Seto felt as if he was being treated with the highest regard. With a nod, Seto continued his way through the station and looked intently at the approaching vehicle.

The transit rail carrier had all the markings of a luxury and yet robust vehicle, Seto for his own part wondered how quickly they could construct these rail systems back on Teta. Walking through the Weapon scanners, never a concern for the Du Couteau heir, he quickly awaited to be guided around and perhaps meet the businessman behind this novel concept.

And bringing in a few Senators, I wonder if this is their plan to get more investors.
​

|| Galaxy Starways | Xasha Callisto | Dracken Pryce ||​

 

[Tiresh Kobitana-Draellix]

Galaxy Starways Xasha Callisto Dracken Pryce Seto du Couteau


The pure design and attention to detail was enough to impress the Senator from Lujo as she nodded with a smile and took her metallic ticket into her hand. She was always fond of innovation and entrepreneurialism, as it was the beating heart of any democratic economy. And while she was delighted at the station, she was equally as horrified at the proposal of bypassing planetary governmental permissions in order to expand the railway unhindered and unregulated. It was one of the most brash examples of corporate overreach that she could remember in recent memory… and there was quite a lot to remember.

But nevertheless, she enjoyed the show, raising an eyebrow in pleasant surprise as the Coruscant Philharmonic Orchestra began to play. She was a big fan, and so she found herself pausing right there in the rail station to listen to the music.

She looked over a moment later and saw Xasha Callisto in the station, offering her a warm smile and a wave.

"Senator Callisto!" She called, motioning for the senator to join her if she was interested in her company.

 

[Xasha Callisto]

Constancia​

Location: Senate Station
Objective: Discuss attempts at corporatist overreach
Tags: Galaxy Starways Tiresh Kobitana-Draellix Dracken Pryce Auteme Seto du Couteau

---

The young Constancian heard the familiar voice of Tiresh Kobitana-Draellix behind her and she turned around. She looked walked over to her as she beckoned, it was good to see friendly face. She approached her and made a light bow of her head in greeting. "Senator Kobitana, what a pleasure it is to see you. I do hope you are well. Isn't all this wonderful, can't you just picture one of these on tranquil Lujo? Nestled alongside one of the lakes, and the best part, you wouldn't even need to deal with signing off on which unspoiled wilderness would be destroyed forever? Doesn't that sound fun." she gave the ironic laugh of a woman whose planet was just now recovering from centuries of industrial damage. She nodded and waved as a pair of Zeltrons walked past and different their hats to her.

She then stood next to Senator Kobitana and put on a very friendly and diplomatic banter, the one that politicians use to disguise private conversation in a crowded room. "Here is a little story I think you might find funny. I am not one to gossip, normally, but I heard something funny from a PA that drinks with one of the Arbiters staffers." She paused and sipped champagne, switching back the happy greeting tone as a Snivian walked up to her and tried to make arrangements before realising she was busy. "So apparently there is an alliance Senator who has thrown their lot in with some leader in a foreign empire, I won't spill names, as I said I hate gossip. But don't you find that funny?

It's all business, obviously, and I immediately shot down any jokes about their personal travel accounts. And I told them the needed to stop spreading rumours. No Senator would do anything that might jeopardise their objectivity, and heaven forbid would they do anything that might give their opponents ammunition against personal causes." she paused for breath and took more drink. "Anyway, I've said enough really, just thought you might find it entertaining." she smiled in friendship at the Senator, not wanting to appear hostile, but very clear on her point. The Concordists were vulnerable, they did not need any slip ups at this stage.

Finally she saw Dracken Pryce Come through security and beckoned him over to join their discussions, she must have just missed him though as he stepped into the train car. Shame, she was quite interested to hear the perspective of another Senator from an industrialised world.
​

​

 

[Tiresh Kobitana-Draellix]

Galaxy Starways Xasha Callisto Dracken Pryce Seto du Couteau


Xasha Callisto said:

"Senator Kobitana, what a pleasure it is to see you. I do hope you are well. Isn't all this wonderful, can't you just picture one of these on tranquil Lujo? Nestled alongside one of the lakes, and the best part, you wouldn't even need to deal with signing off on which unspoiled wilderness would be destroyed forever? Doesn't that sound fun."

Tiresh laughed, shaking her head as she beckoned a nearby server for an alcoholic beverage, “What a relief to have all these corporations stepping in to make all these hard decisions for us! Whatever would we do without them!”

Tiresh took a sip of her drink as Xasha Callisto began to share a story with her. At first it seemed like typical banter, but as she continued to listen, Tiresh found herself wondering what the true intention of this story was… The mentioning of The Arbiter 's staff was the first warning of an ulterior motive, causing her more intrigue as to where this story was going... but at the mention of an alliance senator “throwing in their lot” with a leader from a foreign empire…

Tiresh’s smile slowly disappeared as her look began to shift from one of light curiosity to an expression more in the realm of stoic distaste. It was becoming evident that the Senator was not simply telling her an amusing story as she had implied, but was instead firing a warning shot across her bow. And the manner in which she was choosing to do so dripped of almost a mocking playfulness and lighthearted innocence.

Tiresh found her grip tightening around her glass as her blood began to boil, the Senator continuing on in her subversive language about the implied relationship that might exist beyond the professional realm, and so on. And then, the Senator went on to chastise her in the most political and subversive way possible, implying a jeopardizing of her objectivity and providing ammunition for her opponents.

“How dare you” Tiresh thought as her expression further darkened towards the nosy and audacious Senator, her eyes becoming like daggers as they seemed to cut right through her.

Xasha Callisto said:

"Anyway, I've said enough really, just thought you might find it entertaining."

Entertaining? Entertaining?? How dare you, Senator.

She tried her best to stay collected while everything inside of her wanted to drench this woman with the rest of her beverage. But she knew she needed to collect herself at some capacity… she needed to work with her after all in order to upset the Corporatists and the status quo. But still, she wanted to make herself perfectly clear to this woman that she had crossed a line.

She took a sip of her drink, and then raised her chin, creating the illusion of looking down on someone as her eyes communicated far more intensely than her actual words ever could…

“I’m not sure that it is wise to make an enemy of me, Senator. I’m not sure what exactly you desired for this to be, but it is anything but entraining.” She took a step closer to the senator and lowered her voice further, so no one else could hear her words, “I would tread carefully if I was you. I am the one with real power in the Senate right now, and you…” She leaned in, bringing her lips close to her ear and continued in a whisper, “…You are a newcomer with no real connections or relationships yet. How dare you attempt a power play against me.” She pulled back and gave the senator a fake, cordial smile.

“A pleasure to see you, Senator. I believe we will accomplish much together.” Her voice was back to its normal volume, and her words now came off as light and polite, “If you will excuse me, I believe it is time for me to find my seat.”

With that, she pivoted and walked away from the Senator, moving inside the same car train as Dracken Pryce . Internally she released a string of insults, still fuming at the audacious conversation. She pulled out her data pad and quickly typed out a message to The Arbiter , instructing for her to fire her entire core staff immediately as one of them apparently had loose lips.

She put the data pad away and approached Dracken Pryce , trying her best to cover up the storm still raging inside of her,

“Mind if I join you, Senator Pryce?” She inquired as she set her hand on the seat opposite of him. She had been wanting to connect with the man for some time now… she believed that, in many ways, he was critical to the future of the Alliance.

 

[Auteme]

Galaxy Starways Xasha Callisto Dracken Pryce Seto du Couteau Tiresh Kobitana-Draellix ​

Much like the others, Auteme wasn't especially keen on the idea of this... luxury train. Starships were luxury enough. Had it been cheap, extremely efficient, and meant for the general populace, maybe. Galaxy Starways likely had their hands in that pot too. Along with the promises of campaign donations and the aggressive lobbying and PR, Auteme had found herself sucked in, much like many others.

She glided through security and reception, soon entering the main car. Politicians of various stripes wandered about, mingling with representatives and lawyers from Galaxy Starways. Naturally she gravitated towards those she knew. Du Couteau didn't seem tired for once, and as ever she found herself struck by a twinge of jealousy by his mastery of fashion. The coat, the cape, the gloves... she hadn't been sure exactly what to wear, ending up in a simple yet elegant white and gold dress, contrasted with onyx accessories. Graceful and ethereal, yet also sleek and serious.

Pryce was there as well, just having entered, and though she felt they needed to speak, she wanted to give some time first. After all, she'd deceived him to sneak Lucien in to meet with him. They had time to become better political allies, but for the moment she felt she could leave him be.

She decided to head towards the senators of Lujo and Constancia, two of her allies from the slowly-developing coalition. Yet as she approached, Kotibana leaned closer to Callisto. Even though Auteme could not hear the words, the low boil of anger was unmistakable in Kotibana's posture and presence. The woman left, seeking out someone else -- Pryce -- so Auteme moved to the Constancian's side, grabbing a drink for herself from a nearby server.

"I feel as though Senator Kotibana's temper has been wearing thin as of late," she said. "I confess I'm curious, what you might have said to make her scatter so quickly."

 

[Dracken Pryce]

Auteme | Tiresh Kobitana-Draellix | Seto du Couteau | Faith Organa | Galaxy Starways

The train was begin to buzz with the sound of conversation and political whispers now that the dignitaries were all on board. He'd noticed that more than a few of the passengers were wearing noticeably less flashy clothes than the others he had come in with and realized they were probably winners of Galaxy Starways' lottery to see get in on this party action. That was good, it helped him relax being among his own people, even if he was wearing a pressed Corellian military uniform, pauldrons and all.

"Tiresh! Er- Senator Kobitana," he gave a stiff formal nod of the head. "Of course, I wouldn't mind." Noticing the drink in her hand he snatched one from a passing serving droid and looked into the flute curiously. He really wasn't cut out for this life. He'd much rather have a whiskey or ale. Wine was about as fancy as he got with his alcohol. He took a sip and grimaced. Too sweet.

"So," he started, setting the glass back on the tray of yet another serving droid. "What's got your engines running? Uhh, if you don't mind me asking that is." He was getting better at this. It had taken many, many years but that mysterious leather book really was teaching him how to touch this whole Force thing, at least he thought it was. It was at least teaching him to read people and emotions better. Or maybe it was just how tight she was holding her glass and the wrinkles in the corners of her eyes. Either way, he'd have to figure out who that "Velok the Younger" Velok Brokentusk fellow was. Maybe one day he'd be able to thank him.

 

[Galaxy Starways]

Spoiler

Though some of the guest may have been removed from the platform, temporarily, by security if they tripped the subtle buzzing alarm they were returned to the others with haste. Presumably disarmed for the time being. As the delegates mingled amongst one another the time had finally drawn near that several of them began to move across the platform to make their way onto the train a pair of attendants at each car entrance greeted them with respectful pleasantries then helped them up the short steps in needed.

The interior of each car was uniformly elegant. Individual seats anchored to the floor made of artistically shaped chairs featuring plush dark blue cushions with golden buttons. The seats were arranged in two by two so that passenger pairs faced one another for conversation. Wide windows displayed the interior of Senate Station. Above the red carpet aisle, and no wider than it, was a shimmering stained glass mural poetically depicting the devastation of Coruscant, the economic crashes that ensued, and the rise of the Coruscanti people reaching towards a new prosperous future. Perhaps it could be depicted as self congratulatory however upon closer inspection there was not the slightest hint of Galaxy Starways, or trains of any type, present. The people moved under their own power, faceless but united, suffering their hardships as one.

As the delegates took their unassigned seats and the attendants took their place at the front and back of each car, two per car to be exact, a security official walked down the aisle way while a Senate Guard Commando walked behind him. Together the pair approached each delegate, specifically Senators, and asked "Good morning, Senator, we are doing a pre-departure check. Is there anything you wish to request, tell, or inform us about?" while the security agent took the lead down the car it seemed the Senate Guard Commando was asking the questions. No doubt in order maintain safety standards to please Guard Captain Ruus, a familiar face within the Senate complex though one who rarely left it.

After the security check there was a lurch of movement forward as the train began to slowly creep down the rail. The hum the titanic engine at the helm was muffled by cutting edge, passive, noise cancellation though not completely silenced. Not long afterwards the first cars began to be illuminated by the dazzling light of the outdoors. Revealing to all the grand, picturesque, cityscape of the Senate District. Soaring buildings rose to the clouds as if they were holding up the sky. Gilded statues of non-descript humanoids that decorated the various federal buildings rose their hands or stood at a solemn attention. Some of the monuments near the ground level were centuries old but rarely seen by the high flying denizens of Coruscant's uppermost level. Slowly, ever so, the train began to lift skyward. Some form of elevated railway no doubt carried the delegations a dozen yards into the air as the train began to pick up speed.

Just then, once the train began to cruise, the carriage doors slid open at the front and a Human male in a long double-breasted coat adorned with the signature Alliance blue fabric and silver buttons strode through with a kind expression. Modern epaulets on either shoulder bore the Galaxy Starways emblem. Atop his head was a cylindrical conductor's hat, just tall enough to hold at the front an ornate golden plate that read 'Conductor' across it in Aurebesh. He would stop at each of the locations and greet the delegates "Welcome aboard the Parhelion, I am Conductor Alyn, let me personally thank you for accepting our invitation. Once you present the ticket you received at Senate Station I will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have. Rest assured that a formal presentation will begin shortly. In the meanwhile please enjoy the Parhelion's route. Sincerely it is a treasure what has been built here, on Coruscant, though a pity that so few have the time to appreciate it."

Auteme Dracken Pryce Seto du Couteau Tiresh Kobitana-Draellix Xasha Callisto [Open]

 

[Tiresh Kobitana-Draellix]

Galaxy Starways Xasha Callisto Dracken Pryce Seto du Couteau


She nodded and slid herself into the chair across from Dracken Pryce , wiggling a bit in the cushion as she enjoyed how comfortable the chair was. It was evident that no expense had been spared in its construction. She smiled at his apparent distaste for the sweeter alcoholic beverages being offered, but then her smile faded at his inquiry as to what had gotten her so upset. Was it that apparent?

"Oh, just..." She let out a force laugh, "You remember our banter back on Eufornis Major with Donavon Arturo ? About how I'm still learning how to play this political game? Well…" Tiresh shrugged with slight irritation and took a sip from her drink, "Let's just say I've still got a lot to learn."

As the security official and senate guard approached their table and inquired if there was anything they would like to request, Tiresh took it upon herself to take them up on the offer, "Would it be too much to request two shot glasses?" The security agent paused for a brief moment, then nodded a confirmation as he waived towards one of the service droids. Soon there were two empty shot glasses on the table in between them, and Tiresh nodded her thanks with a warm smile. As the droid left, she pulled out a flask from her purse. "I've been wanting to connect with you, Dracken…" She paused and flashed him a slightly playful smile at how he had used her first name earlier, "… It feels like it has been some time since we were able to properly connect." She opened the flask and filled the two shot glasses expertly. "If I might be honest and to the point, which I usually am… I believe you have a lot to offer the Alliance. Even more so than at your current capacities... if you get my drift. Care for some whiskey?" She slid one of the shot glasses across the table with a smirk as she in turn took her own shot and drank it down. She was not-so-subtly hinting at her personal conviction that Pryce was the man who would eventually need to arise as Chancellor. He was strong, honest, military minded, down to earth, and carried a steady but authoritative temperament. And that was exactly what the Alliance needed in this tedious and uncertain hour. "Now that hits the spot." She mused upon the quality of her whisky as her eyes shifted to look out the view port as the brilliant light of the Coruscant sky flooded through the train. They were now moving along at a decent pace, and it was definitely a smooth and quiet ride. It was very impressive.

She hadn't taken in the beautiful mural earlier when she had boarded, as she had been slightly distracted by her previous conversation. But now her eyes drifted upward as she admired the artistry that was on display. It was clear that Galaxy Starways had dressed to impress. She smiled and turned her attention to the conductor as he greeted all the Senators in her car, giving him a warm smile and a nod.

 

[Xasha Callisto]

Constancia​

Location: Senate Station
Objective: Discuss attempts at corporatist overreach
Tags: Galaxy Starways Tiresh Kobitana-Draellix Dracken Pryce Auteme Seto du Couteau

---

Xasha watched as Tiresh Kobitana-Draellix walked away from her, clearly fuming with her approach, she wasn't entirely certain whether the rumours were true. But from Kobitanas reaction, well, she didn't even need to be a natural telepath to read those signals. So the good hearted Senator was in bed with a foreign warlord, interesting. She had no intention of treating the woman as an enemy, but it was good to know who she was dealing with.

"I feel as though Senator Kotibana's temper has been wearing thin as of late," she said. "I confess I'm curious, what you might have said to make her scatter so quickly."

Senator Callisto laughed, "oh, nothing of consequence, just a little bit of politics, an arrangement not to her liking perhaps." she was truthful when she said whe wasn't a gossip.

"and how are you, Auteme , looking lovely today. What are you thoughts on all of this? It's all great on the surface, but I feel allowing entirely unchecked access to our planets for one company is a mistake. The staff appear happy, if a little on edge" was that a suprise, a showcase trip with all the powerful people on the Senate on board, if something went wrong it would be a mess.

As they walked, she listened to Auteme's reply but discretely typed a message on her pad to send to Tiresh Kobitana-Draellix .

To my honorable friend Senator Kobitana,

You misunderstand my intention, I come to you with a warning from a potential ally, but it appears I touched a nerve the lioness of Lujo has teeth. So we will see won't we?

So we can move past this and you can treat my intentions as nothing but a friendly warning or we can go for it?

But before you decide, maybe you should look up a couple of headlines from my days as a cadet, they are easy enough to find. I will even link you my personal favourite.

Constancia's Golden Girl?

So, before you get in mud with me, understand that I may be new, but I know what I am doing, and one of us has further to fall.

much love,

X

She sent the message, should Tiresh click on the link, it was a fairly salacious headline about some parties that the young Xasha Callisto attended whilst in the army. She was cleared of any wrong doing and the man attempting to sabotage her ended up driven out of his post.

"my apologies Auteme , she said as she sent the message and put her tablet away. Let me get us the first round." she laughed at as they sat and she requested two drinks from the complimentary bar. She looked around at the opulence, the questioning from the guard felt a little accusatory "OK, it was me! I did it, it was Callisto in the Caboose with an Electro-spanner" she relaxed a little and eyed up Tiresh through the gaps in the headrests, wondering if her message had yet been read.

​

​

 

[Auteme]

Xasha Callisto | Galaxy Starways Tiresh Kobitana-Draellix Dracken Pryce Seto du Couteau ​

"I'm withholding judgement," she replied briefly. Callisto was clearly distracted -- typing a long message. Auteme permitted herself a brief glance, but going to stare at the woman's datapad would be rude. Almost as rude as pulling out a datapad mid-conversation.

Callisto offered her 'apology', but it was weak, and a distraction. "For the datapad? Or the lying?" Auteme gave a cool look, as though reminding Callisto who she was sitting with. Jedi were not so easily deceived. Still, she was not so cruel as to keep up an abundant pressure.

When the conductor approached, Auteme turned and smiled warmly. "Thank you, Conductor Alyn. We are truly fortunate to have enough time to join you here. If I may ask, how quickly will the Parhelion be traveling on our journey?"

 

[Dracken Pryce]

Auteme | Tiresh Kobitana-Draellix | Seto du Couteau | Faith Organa | Galaxy Starways

Pryce listened thoughtfully, a brow rising a bit when the pretty little senator from Lujo ordered whiskey and two shot glasses. When the Whyren's Reserve Bottle showed up and she downed it without a second thought Pryce poured himself a shot and threw it back. Typically he liked to enjoy his whiskey, especially something like Whyren's but...Well, it was no secret that he wasn't as young as he used to be. Pryce set the glass down and poured another before leaning forward, his fingers interlacing, and gave Tiresh a conspiratorial glare over his clasped hands.

"Are you coming on to me Senator? I mean, I'm flattered and all but..." He looked back and forth before whispering, "I have a wife...and kids...Though the whiskey is a nice touch." He leaned back in his seat and downed the second shot. "Whiskey is the way to every Corellian's heart though." He folded his arms and nodded to himself as if receiving superior council.

 

[Tiresh Kobitana-Draellix]

Galaxy Starways Xasha Callisto Dracken Pryce Seto du Couteau


She Immediately blurted out a surprised laugh in response to Dracken Pryce ’s suggestion that she was flirting with him, causing her to blush a bit as she glanced quickly around the rest of the car, hoping that such conclusions would not be the consensus of anyone else in the train.

“Mr. Pryce! I would never dream of becoming a home wrecker! However, a little bit of political flirting is surely not out of the question, is it? Can a Senator not get into bed with those she feels best align with her own ambitions? Again… politically speaking, of coarse.” Although she had been caught off guard by his comment, she felt like it was done mostly in jest and not in actual rebuke, and so she felt comfortable leaning into the general tone of the conversation that the Senator had introduced. It was a pleasant surprise… she enjoyed light-hearted banter.

She had assumed that the Senator would appreciate some proper whiskey. It seemed that her intuition had paid off. She smiled with a nod at his remark regarding the whiskey as she tapped her empty shot glass lightly against the table in-between them, her eyes studying the man in front of her with curiosity. Political curiosity, of coarse.

“Whiskey is never too far from my reach these days. Wouldn’t you agree that politics is best enjoyed with a side of liquor? Oh dear, perhaps I should stop while I’m behind. Anyways…”

She filled herself another shot glass, but this one she would drink much more slowly than the first. “Perhaps a more casual topic of conversation is appropriate? What are your thoughts regarding the reason we are all here, Senator Pryce? I refer, of coarse, to the auspicious spectacle that is Galaxy Starways.”

She then noticed that a message had come in on her data pad. She casually glanced over to the screen as it sat on the table in front of her, recognizing that it was from Xasha Callisto . “Parden my attention for one moment, Senator? The reason for my sour mood is beckoning.”

She pulled the data pad up so that Pryce could not read the message, quickly skimming it. She let out a labored sigh and quickly typed out a response to the Senator of Constancia…

I am willing to conclude that our conversation was a simple case of misunderstanding. We both have bigger fish to fry besides each other, would you agree?

Please try to speak more transparently with me in the future regarding such issues, and I will do my best to have more understanding towards your communication style in the future as well.

She nodded briskly before sending the message. She turned off the screen and then set the data pad back down on the table, off to the side. She wanted to work with the Senator, so she would be more than happy to sweep the whole thing under the rug.

“Sometimes I wonder if politics is my true calling...” She said with a light shrug. For some reason she felt rather comfortable with Pryce. She wasn’t sure why… perhaps it was because he reminded her in some ways of her father. Whatever the case, she enjoyed that their personalities seemed to work well together… at least on the outlook… or perhaps she was completely oblivious. Either way, she took another sip of her whiskey as she turned her attention back to the Senator sitting across from her.

 

[Galaxy Starways]

The kindly Conductor Alyn smiled warmly at Auteme "Well, Master Auteme , now that we are on the main thoroughfare the Parhelion should be reaching its top cruising speed of 97 kilometers per hour. Though the Parhelion is capable of much, much faster speeds I assure you. For touring we find it best to be brisk but steady, so that you may see much and examine at your leisure. Should we be pressed for, heavens forbid, safety, the Parhelion can engage its four turbo-boosters at which point the top speed would be roughly 490 kilometers per hour. Though the strain on both the Parhelion and the rail would require a lengthy maintenance time of several days." at that point the Conductor took Auteme's ticket and put a thin wand like device over it. A chime sounded from the wand and the ticket was handed back to the senator "It was a pleasure making your acquaintance. Please let our attendants know if you require anything to make your experience more comfortable. The formal presentation will begin shortly. Master Auteme, Ms. Callisto" with that the grandfatherly man gave her a parting smile and went to the next group of dignitaries.

The Conductor then stood where Tiresh Kobitana-Draellix and Dracken Pryce were seated and as he gave his greeting to them he scanned their tickets and went to the rear of the car and brought two attendants close to him by gently pulling on their shoulders. The trio conspired and then broke their huddle and the Conductor went back to the front of the car "It has been a pleasure, truly, to meet all of you. Should you need me or any form of assistance please speak with our attendants and they will see to it that your needs are met." he lifted his hat cordially then placed it back upon his head and left through the sliding door at the front of the car.

Once the door was closed the car's lights began to dim, the large windows tinted, and the bright sunlight coming through the stained glass mural began to fade as well until the car was plunged in darkness. A blue light, flickered from the rear of the car to the front and culminated in the apparition of a holographic figure. A faceless humanoid, blue, without clothing, and without features. It spoke in a tone and tenor of a dear friend "Greetings, my name is Parhelion. I am a model CSR-74 locomotive." it seemed that this holographic image was more akin to a digital avatar for the train itself, though Conductor Alyn made no mention of a droid brain or AI "For your comfort Galaxy Starways has offered these accommodations for your tour. This car is-" Parhelion motioned around the car with both hands lifted slightly above his chest in a displaying manner "a Leisure Class rail carriage. Below this class is the Economy Class and above it is the Luxury Class. With fitting quality and service provided to all. Galaxy Starways wishes inform that all passengers are valuable to the company. To that end Galaxy Starways has invested heavily into the training of our Customer Service Specialists, also known as Attendants. An academy exists here, in the jewel of the Alliance, where our Attendants take a three week training course to ensure that they are familiar with the operation of all essential components of each carriage class. Biological needs of over 200 commonly serviced species. Introductory and Intermediate Huttese language courses. Life saving first response medical treatment. And above all, hospitality." Parhelion put its hands down to its sides and let the message sink it before continuing "Galaxy Starways believes that not only droids but people can ensure quality. Therefore Galaxy Starway's has made it a policy within our bylaws that 8 of every 10 individuals must be biological by birth or in the case of the rare but no less valuable employment of lithoborn and silicon based lifeforms to produce evidence of their natural make. With this commitment to the foundation of civilization Galaxy Starways has created over ten thousand full time, well paid, positions on Coruscant alone. Additionally Galaxy Starways is a leader in droid integration and rights." Parhelion put a hand to its chest and nodded slowly "I am the first recipient of Galaxy Starway's digital citizenship program. Under it I have been given the rights of my biological counterparts. I am compensated for my labor and should my contract expire liberty upon request. Galaxy Starways hopes that in time it may extend this revolutionary acknowledgement of worth to all employed, sentient, artificial lifeforms in its care." the holographic avatar of Parhelion began to walk down the aisle way "We have reached a cruising speed of 96 kilometers per hour, a speed that I can maintain indefinitely while providing passage to over 20 Economy Class carriages or 240 passengers and 45 crew members. In times of dire emergency my top speed is 490 kilometers per hour making it possible to reach Senate Station at the furthest point of travel at under two minutes."

Spoiler

Parhelion stopped in the middle of the car and aisle way then turned back to the front of the carriage and lifted its right hand up and arced it over its head as light began to pour through the stained glass mural as the sunlight was allowed back through "This emergency only operation was created in response to the devastations wrought upon the people of Coruscant. Should our enemies come from the land, sky, or space, I have been gifted the ability to ferry our people, my people, to safe harbor. Below Senate Station in a secure access location are mass transit systems designed by Galaxy Starways to act as evacuation routes to lower sections of Coruscant, sealed until needed. In four hours I am able to transport more than five thousand of our people to these evacuation routes. Those who I cannot carry will be transported by speeder to Senate Station, pedestrians will also be granted access. The sub-city evacuation routes havea capacity of twenty thousand per standard solar hour." Parhelion walked back to the front of the carriage and turned back to the guests as their chairs were turned to face him, slowly, "Galaxy Starways wishes you to know this confidential information to prove our commitment to Courscant's safety, and, to the broader Alliance. We trust that, should our Act pass the Senate, you would support us in our endeavor to not only provide Galaxy Class service to passengers but also life saving protective evacuation services to all available localities."

Parhelion lifted both of its hands to its chest and then pushed outward as a massive image of a hover train rushed down the aisleway "I present to you the RT-MCP model transport. State of the art repulsor lift technology, unparalleled carrying capacity for both passengers and cargo. Onboard facilities for high endurance transport operations. Modular carriage alignment designs allowing for an unmatched verstality from secure cargo transportation with ambush resistant defensive armaments to luxurious cross-continent voyages. Needing only a cleared area to transverse the RT-MCP is the flagship of Galaxy Starways and the future of terrestrial travel for citizens of the Alliance. This new design will be Galaxy Starway's most important instrument and the backbone of our interplanetary transit systems. At this very moment our engineers are constructing the first of its class in the railyards of level 39 here on Coruscant. The RT-MCP will connect passengers and stations to Galaxy Starways ran Starports where our passengers will be greeted with interplanetary travel solutions from not only Galaxy Starways but a competitive market of other carriers free to adverstise their services. Though Galaxy Starways is certain that our loyal customers will be happy to stick with us from the Sky to the Stars due to our mertis alone."

Parhelion stopped speaking then and continued to hold out his hands so that the holographic future train was still hoving in the aisle way. A finely detailed and high resolution image, as blue as Parhelion.
Auteme Dracken Pryce Seto du Couteau Tiresh Kobitana-Draellix Xasha Callisto [Open]

 

[Xasha Callisto]

Constancia​

Location: Senate Station
Objective: Discuss attempts at corporatist overreach
Tags: Galaxy Starways Tiresh Kobitana-Draellix Dracken Pryce Auteme Seto du Couteau

---

Xasha blushed a little, being called out for her ban manners, it was not the first time.she had been called brash, or even obnoxious, but many Senators were too far in the other direction, afraid to speak their mind or step on toes. She supposed coming from a species of telepaths, you got used to not having hidden agendas, even if it was illegal to read someone's mind, emotional empathy was passive and lies were often easily found our. "My deepest apologise Auteme , for the datapad absolutely, my manners are appalling sometimes. For the little white lie as to why I upset Senator Kobitana, we will just chalk that up to a private matter, I hope you will understand."

The conductor came around and spoke to them all about the characteristics of the train. "I am curious about this figure of 490km/h. Does the same maximum apply to both passenger and cargo trains? Typically passenger trains are significantly faster than cargo, 490 is very impressive for a hauler, but less so for passenger conveyance." she pulled out her holopad again, this time with a stylus, she saw a message notification but ignored it for now. "may I take a few notes whilst you speak, it will help to have a few more details. Whether this legislation passes or not, I am interested in your product and there may be a place for it on Constancia." she smiled, the legislation was awful, but she felt she could certainly sell the trains to her government, particualry of this speed claim related to haulers as well as passenger.

After they had spoken and he began his presentation she looked on, it was a good show and nothing seemed out of place, they were proud of the product and it was very impressive. But why the law change? If they were so confident, why put Planetary governments into a position as opponents. She knew exactly what her government had in store if this law passed, they planned to make sure future companies were clear Constancia would not be pushed about. It would be a shame if Galaxy Starways was target of that example.

​

​

 

[Seto du Couteau]

Seto Du Couteau, Senator of Empress Teta
Location: Coruscant, Senate Distract Station
Action: Looking out for a good investment
Attire

Seto eagerly approached the traincarts, he hadn’t bothered bringing any weapon, even if outside the secured Senate Chambers. The reach of the Senatorial Guards have extended considerably since the Maw’s attack. Seto hardly cared about the added security measures, if anything the extra spending in the budget allowed for more wealth transfer. Never a terrible thing for the Alliance to dabble with increased spending, simply put for the Finance and Commerce Chair Senator he simply needed to direct the flood gates carefully, targeted one might add.

For the moment though his thoughts turned to the train in front of him and the quite splendid artistry of the car itself. The craftsmanship alone told Seto the amount of credits spent, and the young Du Couteau heir wondered if it was possible to investigate the invoices of this company to better understand the costs. He turned around and wondered how the other Senators would react to all of this. The somewhat suspect direction some of the new class of Senators were heading worried some Corporatists, though Seto hoped they would be able to see the wider lens of the galaxy.

Perhaps if he was feeling brave he might have allowed him the luxury of using his connection to the Force to better judge the emotions from everyone. Dare I say even gently nudge some to see a better direction. But in the presence of Senator Auteme, he knew better than to risk such a brazen act of Force manipulation. The Alliance doesn’t need another exposed Senator of that sort for the moment. Seto inwardly sighed and moved along the train car.

The Conductor, Alyn, gave a quick introduction and began to scan each of their tickets. A formal method, no doubt to better give a personnel connection. There’s a reason why Nobles still have humanoid Maids and Butlers, even with droids that cost less. Seto smiled brightly and awaited the presentation from Parhelion. Seto needed not to wait much, as quickly as Conductor Alyn scanned their tickets, a hologram of a rather unassuming blue humanoid with no facial features began to speak and gesture towards the train riders within the car.

A Computer running the train? Seto mused on such a decision to allow an AI to operate and manage such a vehicle, but perhaps Galaxy Starways had an amazing Development Team. Parhelion continued to explain more of the train and its overall design, combing through the stats and dimensions of the trains, as well providing a brief pitch of their mission statement. It was mostly unassuming business buzzwords, but what caused Seto to raise an eyebrow was the mention of a Digital Citizenship. So does this Parhelion have a dedicated physical body, or if he wishes to terminate with Galaxy Starways, does he consider himself the train as well? Seto wanted to laugh at the notation but instead kept a smiling poker face.

“Well, I am quite excited to see how far Galaxy Starways will go, while it is unusual for legislation to be so singular and directed with its attempts to grow future infrastructure, I’m sure there is a Bill that we can see pass within the Chambers of the Senate.” Seto offered, his eyes glancing around him, “-But I am curious, this Digital Citizenship, where is the primary residence? The Galaxy Starway’s HQ?” Seto asked. If perhaps there was a way to sweeten the deal with other Member Worlds, perhaps this was it, through this new type of Citizenship.
​

|| Galaxy Starways | Xasha Callisto | Dracken Pryce | Tiresh Kobitana-Draellix | Auteme ||​

 

[Dracken Pryce]

Auteme | Tiresh Kobitana-Draellix | Seto du Couteau | Faith Organa | Galaxy Starways

Dracken smirked at his jab getting a reaction out of the younger senator. If it wasn't for moments like that he didn't think he could survive being a Senator.

“Whiskey is never too far from my reach these days. Wouldn’t you agree that politics is best enjoyed with a side of liquor? Oh dear, perhaps I should stop while I’m behind. Anyways…”

Dracken held his tongue and instead waved down an attendant and got a proper glass and poured himself a drink. He understood that the liquor was free but that was no reason to down it the way Tiresh seemed ready to. Something really was bothering her though. The way she was looking at that pad, it probably had something to do with what was on its screen.

"I thought the same thing when I first started," he said, "But the thing is, the Alliance needs more honest senators. Its not a weakness being earnest." he took a sip of his whiskey and sighed contentedly. "In fact, I'd say its a strength and one the Alliance needs right now. We've been in back-to-back wars for almost ten years now. If we can't do anything for our soldiers on the battlefield, the least we can do is make sure their homes haven't been crushed under the weight of bad politics and corporate corruption."

 

[Tiresh Kobitana-Draellix]

Galaxy Starways Xasha Callisto Dracken Pryce Seto du Couteau Auteme and others...


She swirled her shot glass ever so gently in her hand, musing upon Dracken Pryce ’s comments. She sat in silence for a moment, trying to formulate a question that she had been wrestling with for some time now. Finally she took a small sip and began to speak,

“You seem to have maintained your honesty, even in the midst of…” Her words drifted off as she shook her head, almost as if she was trying to push the rest of the sentence away, “...I admit I often feel overwhelmed by the challenges we face in the Senate. I have wrestled as to whether honest politicians can truly even stand a chance against the corruption and the powers that be. What value is there to stand by our morals and our honesty if we are never able to affect change? Are we doomed to watch on helplessly as those with lined pockets and purchased power mould the Alliance into their own image?” She looked down at her glass, then took a sip as she continued to ponder her own words, finally looking back up apologetically at Pryce, “I apologize for my cynicism, I am usually the optimist. And I want to believe we can really make a difference and maintain our values at the same time. I have to believe…” She offered a heavy sigh as she took another sip from her shot glass.

She paid attention to the entire presentation that was facilitated by Parhelion, the A.I. of this train it seemed. There was a lot she liked about the company and their values. She just wished that the terribly-pointed and overreaching legislation would be re-written. But now was not the time and place to engage with Galaxy Starways in such a debate… she would leave such comments for the senate floor.