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Zalis Krales

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  1. Zalis Krales

    Titan

    Zalis found herself walking down the ramp of Supremacy staring at a datapad in hand. Two workers were quick to offer her up things, but as she moved past them, it was clear that she held no interest in being swooned over. An orange and black female Twi'lek who stood in the shadows followed closely behind her suddenly, but remained quiet until addressed. It wasn't until entering a turbolift that Zalis even acknowledged her. "Arostale? Right?" The Twi'lek stepped forward trembling slightly. "Yes ma'am." Zalis rolled her eyes at the trembling. Too many people still viewed her as either an assassin or like one of her former and heavily overcompensating predecessors. "Death does not come to those around me. Large empires of companies doesn't do well if I'm always killing those off who fail me. Besides, I pay others to do that for me." While meant as a joke to easy the girl, she also found the irony that she now did in fact take partial control over the Bounty Hunters Guild. And this girl would more likely get reassigned elsewhere if she failed her. "I need you to send word to Akor'ketez. The Malidris mission is a go. I also need a job posting to go through... specific channels." The girl quickly began to type something on her own datapad and then looked at Zalis, this time with a bit more confidence. "What exactly am I posting?" Zalis gave the girl a smile and turned her own datapad around to show her. "It goes from breaker channel 4 from outpost omega 9. Black Market request, Tech specialist. Must have skills in security breach." The Twi'lek took the datapad to hold it closer. As she did, the turbolift opened and Zalis walked out, not looking back as she spoke. "Have it done within the hour, then meet me in the dining hall for dinner." She prepared herself for a quick smile as she opened the door at the end of the small hallway from the turbolift, which exposed the massive casino within the cruiser. The air, the noise and the smell as felt so much more comfortable to her then breathing. She gave a smile to a few occupants of the cruise liner who spotted her and gave waves of excitement to see her.
  2. Czerka Corporation/Black Sun One of the largest companies there is. Czerka is everywhere and a well known hub for both supplies, mercs, equipment, researchers, cruise lines, casino, entertainment, smuggling and even own control of the Bounty Hunter’s guild. They have hubs and shops everywhere and are well known throughout the entire galaxy. If you happen to find a planet that doesn’t have a Czerka office, it soon will. But what many don’t know is that it’s secretly controlled by Black Sun, as very few get close enough to find out. Many seeking jobs and credits find themselves employed by Czerka as a means to survive within the galaxy. Those who show a real spark end up getting recruited into Black Sun. Many who are NFU (Non-Force Users) that aren’t recruited into one of the many warring factions can easily find themselves employed through Czerka, as Czerka is by default the default starting line for those without a faction home. Below is what you will find that Czerka has to offer. Faction Leader: The person responsible for helping you get started and motivated. Ask as many questions as you need to. Classes and Ranks: These showcase for you what it means to fall into your profession and what it looks like to move up and advance to become a legendary character within your field. Assets: Namely Planets to help you understand some safe areas for your character to venture to within the main faction’s hub. You are not restricted to these planets, but these are the locations where general work will find you. Faction Leader Zalis Krales Ranks and Classes Many are employed through Czerka, so there are many avenues in which one can easily rise to fame and glory within their own profession. Each and every class has their own framework for advancement and ways to gain status and prestige throughout the known galaxy. Below are some of the many professions that Czerka employs and utilizes to keep the galaxy stocked and running. (Not all Classes have a ranking system.) Smuggler: The back bone of moving supplies across the galaxy. Utilizing ships, smugglers take contraband of different assortments from point A to B. As a smuggler becomes familiar with routes of procedures, they can become elusive in slipping in and out of systems without detection. Each smuggler starts off as an aspiring one, looking to make a name for themselves until they become legendary in the galaxy. The process to gain such prestige requires making runs throughout the galaxy. Each run consists of a few posts. 1 Planet entry. 3 Gaining/moving cargo. 1 Planet departure. (Specialist) Aspiring Smuggler - Contracted out, all new recruits are looking to leave their mark and show off their skills. Until they can prove those skills, their craft and lives are on their own until they leave their mark. They gain a partner to help them pull off their runs. (Ranking up requires 10 runs or 5 successful runs.) Veteran Smuggler - They know the ropes and therefore know some of the other options needed to help them get in and out of systems quickly without being detected. Normally by this point they upgrade to have a crew (3 NPC’s) that help them pull things off, along with now adding a few special modifications to their ships, such as hidden cargo compartments that have the ability to jettison the load if they run into trouble. (Ranking up requires 15 more runs or 10 successful runs.) Legendary Smuggler - Masterful at their craft. They have upgraded their crew (5 NPC’s) that help them pull off some of the hardest of tasks. They have upgraded their own ship to the point of having newer tech to avoid any patrols who would seek to take their cargo back. Such equipment ranges from sensor masks to enhanced deflector shields and undetectable cargo compartments. Tech Specialist: This is the field that feeds things into multiple things such as doctors, creators of droids, weapons and anything else that works with tech. They work in many fields that either help or destroy the galaxy around them. They are solely responsible for supplying the warring factions, independent factions and everyone else with needs. Their goals are different depending on the fields that they choose. (Specialist) Aspiring Tech - They are stationed on Ord Mantell creating different types of weapons to be used in combat, along with potions and posions to be tested out. They seek to improve the galaxy around them through new creations of weapons, stim packs, and shields and droids. Whether motivated by credits or through fame alone, most techs seek to have their equipment sold through Czerka. Famous Tech - Crafting equipment with a multitude of purposes. Sometimes these techs end up leaving Czerka and get employed by a single faction or get contracted out to help create the main base of whatever a faction needs. Legendary Tech - Their products are impeccable and sought after by everyone. If they have a prototype of something, big factions pay huge credits for it. They save some special tech for just themselves, as a way of protecting themselves and their gear. Mercenary: The backbone of many in the galaxy. They hold no true loyalty to any faction, and therefore fight for a fee. As long as the credits are good, they’re the perfect gun for hire, personal bodyguard, or whatever else one may need. (Militant) Aspiring Mercenary - Grunt work at best. They are normally hired out a few times to protect a deal, a bodyguard or even an extra hand in a tough fight. They make sure that all parties and assets are protected. Success leads to their name getting out there. (Ranking up is not yet determined.) Veteran Mercenary - Their names and squads are well known as is their skills. A single name gains a reputation, allowing for them to become feared amongst the lesser seasoned troops. Their gear gains more resistant materials to help them survive any engagement. Legendary Mercenary - They understand their role, and so does everyone else. Their armor and weapons are fierce and strong on the battlefield and they know how to use everything to their advantage. When a Legendary Mercenary gets on the battlefield, watch out for imminent death. Entertainer: They range from singers, bands, dancers, artists and casino/cantina owners. They seek to alleviate the galaxy by adding their own twists of artistic expressions. They primarily are a fun function and allow for enjoyment of life. They will not participate in combat and always stay as far away from it as possible. (Specialist) Bounty Hunter: The Bounty Hunters Guild is very much alive and active. They take on contracts from a multitude of clients and have their main HQ on Iridonia. While many clients put bounties out, the main drop off tends to not be at HQ. Instead, retrieval of a puck from The Helvault on Nespis VII for each bounty collected. All collections of funds do take place at the Guild House in Malidris, and they require proof of Bounties that are being collected dead. (No bodies) The rules for any bounty collection require a duel with the target to bring them in. Every hunter must begin by tracking down their targets. Successfully winning a duel is the only way to achieve a collection. (Militant) Aspiring Bounty Hunter - Your name and gear is decent at best. Maybe basic blasters and a few grenades and choppy armor. You may end up taking a while to hunt your target down, but you’ll need to make the most of the opportunities that arise for you. (4 Collections required to rank up.) Veteran Bounty Hunter - You’re getting the hang of this job. Everyone has a rhythm and you're starting to understand it enough to leverage it on the hunt. Better weapons and gear help you survive. You’ve learned the need for some long distance projectiles, what armors hold up best, and you know a bit better how to work the system to track your targets down. (6 more Collections are required to rank up.) Legendary Bounty Hunter - Their name carries great weight, and with it a chance to survive dangerous encounters. They can sometimes force double payments for their reputation alone, and normally always bring in their asset as requested. They know the system and they know the galaxy. Because of this, they tend to get better jumps on their targets due to the massive amount of contacts acquired throughout their career. Assets Titan (Space)* - A Star Liner commissioned under Zalis to act as HQ for the Black Sun, retailing to Clients and Allies as a Luxury Cruizer for the sole purpose of being a legitimate front to discuss business without notice. This is a must be spot for most entertainers who are seeking to make a name for themselves. Ord Mantell* - The HQ of the Black Sun and Czerka. Many who visit will find that Czerka holds a strong front office here, helping run casinos, bars and other market goods throughout the city. There is also a massive research facility present. Daily operations here are smugglers and techs who work on an assortment of projects from illegal weapons, fuel, armor pieces and general black market goods. There are also business owners who operate shops. The general city hub of Worlport is made up of about 20% of Black Sun and the rest are Czerka employees. Although by this point, the majority of the population relies heavily upon Czerka to bring in clientele for their primary funds. Taris* - The main offices of Czerka operate out of Taris. The main Czerka office on the planet helps employ one third of the population through warehouses and market hubs. The undercity is where the majority of the illegal activity takes place. Many employed by Czerka can find rest and solitude on the planet's surface. It’s also one of the many location hubs for HealthiDrive. Iridonia* - The Spice hub for Black Sun, the Main location of the Bounty Hunter’s Guild all resides on the planet. Czerka runs many of the main spaceports here and collects massive docking fees as a result. The Spice on the surface is used heavily by Black Sun, but also by quite a few medical companies such as HealthiDrive, which is a company that Zalis also owns as a front for legit business, and Czerka also runs profits for. Dubrillion - Originally used as a HQ at one point for Black Sun, the majority of the planet has become somewhat calmer over the years. Although there has been some quiet activity as Zalis set up the facility left behind to begin construction on a few small starfighters in which new and illegal tech could be explored and then deployed to certain buyers. This planet is a hub for many smugglers to find refuge from local authorities searching for them. Tatooine - As lawless as a planet can come, Czerka thrives on this planet. Through a small outpost in Bestine and massive Czerka shops in both Mos Espa and Mos Esiley, operations here are small, yet very well known. Being so close to other points of interest to the rest of the galaxy, Tatooine is the resting point for many within the organization. (* Locations are well known spots of activity due to how heavily imbedded Czerka/Black Sun is within the society/culture)
  3. Zalis found herself sitting within a room filled with a mixed group of individuals. She eyed the crowd as small talk was already ensuing. Directly to her right was Bakkull the Hutt and his traveling crew. The orange and turquoise Hutt seemed to be dozing in and out of sleep and beyond bored by the small talk. He brought with him a female H’nemthe, two male Barabels and a male Gran. The H’nemthe kept her eyes locked on Zalis, to which she found slightly amusing. Next was the Pykes. Graak sat with a group of seven behind him, the largest showing of force. She cared little for whatever looks they threw her way. Next to them was the Crymorah family. Phoosk, the overly muscled Rodian sat with two Weequay and a Wookiee behind him. But not just any Wookiee. He had managed to recruit the dark furred Jathrrro to his entourage. That fact alone worried her slightly, but not enough for her to show anything. To her direct left was Kivro, the Zeltron leader of Crimson Dawn. He brought two droids and a blue S’kytri with him. Behind her stood Ve Livan, the Yarkora she had managed to pick up during the fiasco that took place at Outer Haven, which was the whole reason the families were gathered. She also had about six droids out on her ship, but only Ve did she bring in. The display of force seemed rather compensating and didn't at all provide anything to what was being presented on the table today. Granted, she also knew and understood why others did what they did. Her show of one was a power move alone in itself to the rest of the group, and one that she was sure was a part of the quiet side conversations that didn’t involve her. She looked out the window for a moment, one of the only catina’s with an elevated room in Dearic, which her view overlooked the Akazi plains. As she stared out the window, a voice suddenly broke through her own thoughts. “... And a show of Imperial allied forces gives weight that Zalis knowingly broke the truce by removing competition from herself, giving Black Sun a complete upper hand in moving her goods throughout the galaxy!” Graak made an emphasis to his point by slamming his hand hard upon the table. Zalis annoyingly turned her head to look directly at him. The Pykes were locked tightly in the expansion race with Black Sun and Crimson Dawn. The Hutts didn’t seem to care so much about the affairs of the other syndicates, but rather maintaining their own few ports. How they managed to hold Nal Hutta and Nar Shaddaa with the Imperial forces holding base there seemed to be a mystery to her. She turned to look at Phoosk to see what sort of indication he would have on the development. Almost as if on cue, he spoke rather bounty to everyone. “Imperial forces or even those allied to them does not point to Zalis, Graak. There are many things here that need to be discussed, finger pointing isn’t one of them. Black Sun lost the Kessel mines to the Imperial Allied forces a while back if you remember, along with the Black Sun fleet getting into such a messy situation along with the Jedi at Dark Sun Station… Zalis has been hard at work covering Black Sun from the eyes of the Imperials. She wouldn’t risk calling them in to remove competition for her.” The Rodian turned and offered a smile to Zalis, a sloppy one at best. She kept her annoyed face present. She decided to take her own turn in talking to keep things from spiraling away from what was indeed a bigger problem. “I was present at Outer Haven. They moved in quickly and hard. I barely got out, and anyone else who got out indeed fled to ground quickly. The population that didn’t make it out… as soon as they can they will. Calmin turned that place into a drive of dependency upon the vices of life. And the downfall of that place isn’t worth noting, outside of more outlets opening up. No one here owned that area or had any claims upon it. The freeing up that it does is open to all of us, outside of a selling point. And I was sent there to deliver a ton of spice to Calmin to collect a debt for Mamoi. If I had been caught, it would have fully ended Black Sun. Luckily, I avoided being caught on any camera and avoided patrols while there. But it doesn’t take much thought or intelligence to realize that Mamoi sent me there to get caught. It brings up a major concern. Are the powers that be on Nar Shaddaa really getting brave enough to take us on like that?” << We have been pinned on Nal Hutta for some time. Nar Shaddaa’s markets have gone to lower levels with fear of the Imperials and their damn knights purging our crews daily. It makes us want to reconsider our deal of letting each family have a place on Tatooine. I am very grateful that our operations on Bothawui and Ryloth have not been discovered yet. And there is rumor of war coming directly at the Imperials over our space… >> “Maybe you should expand in our direction. Crimson Dawn isn’t afraid of what those dogs can do. Base yourself on a planet like Dathomir and you’ll do just fine. We only have to worry about Black Sun attempting to step on our toes, to which they have come close…” Zalis leaned in now with a smile towards the Zeltron. “Oh, poor Kivro, afraid your pheromones aren’t enough to keep your clientele? Is Taris too close to your precious Mandalore? Take a hint you doshing bantha, beskar isn’t there anymore. And even if you did find any, you’ll need a Mandalorian to forge it. You’re better off reviving slave trading on Thalassia.” “ZALIS. Enough. All of you. Your points are taken.” Graak repositioned himself before continuing. “As the eldest member of this family, I think that we are all within a new game here. While I don’t think anyone has an answer or solutions yet, the very fact that Outer Haven was taken down does show us something. The Imperials are no longer stagnant towards us. The Sith Empire may have lost it’s drive, giving more opportunity for the Imperials to target our families. For now, this is what I’m proposing until we know more of what is shaking out. Kivro, start moving your mobile captains into positions to help aid the Hutts in getting their feet back on the ground. Bakkull, get off Nar Shaddaa. Let a power vacuum take place there to see how the Imperials respond. Phoosk, I need for you to help find new trade routes for the Pykes to move spice again. Your teams always tend to have an ear to the ground. Zalis, for now, you can stay put with Black Sun. But use your other companies to stir the pot if you can. Keep the Imperial integlinece off of us as we make these moves. Does everyone agree to these terms? At least for the next three standard months?” Zalis watched everyone first as they all slowly agreed. She felt uneasy about it, as there seemed to be too much room to operate for her while others didn't. It almost felt like a trap. She couldn’t decide if it was worth agreeing to these terms or not, but when everyone now turned towards her, she decided to slowly nod her own head. While it may be a trap for her, she had the resources to keep herself a step ahead, just as soon as she found out what the actual trap was.
  4. Zalis stood and looked out over the skyline, which glowed from the setting sun. The office of Czerka that Akor’ketez occupied offered up a perfect view over the incoming ships at the main docks of the Upper City. Her assistant sat at the head of a large table, as a group of shady looking characters all sat around the table, each had a drink and a platter of some sort of food within reach of their arms. One of those seated was talking, addressing some concerns, but otherwise paid absolutely no attention to the Twi’lek at the head. Instead he directed his voice towards Zalis, who stood within the orange and red light of the sun as it was preparing to set on the cityscape. “... And if I’m completely honest with you, I’m not sure that Czerka, or Black Sun-whichever group you choose to front this, has anything worth noting of being able to secure a long and fruitful future. What is proposed here doesn’t really provide anything other than replacing the local guild leaders with just hubs that filter back to a main leader running everything. That’s not really realistic. Let the guild run as it's currently operating.” Zalis kept her eyes on the horizon, watching ships come and go, nowhere near as busy as a place like Coruscant or Corellia, but enough to occupy her attention as she looked at each ship. After she watched a few ships come and go and allowed for a very awkward long silence to fill the room, she broke the silence. “Local guild leaders siphoned credits out of the overall guild resources. You were all underpaid for contracts. This isn’t news, or shouldn’t be. To assume that I have no knowledge of how this operation runs is absurd, let alone to insinuate that the current setup is profitable to you. No guild leaders means protection fees. No default standard pricing for contracts.” Zalis turned at locked eyes with the speaker of the group of bounty hunters. “So while someone like you Gystur gets a fairly decent contract, others who sit at your side end up with scraps and disproportionate funds.” She now walked forward and leaned into the table, making her voice more stern. “Or is that your goal? You have no wiggle room here to actually compensate your fellow hunters, nor do you have the position to push and maneuver with the Crime Syndicate's heads.” She now stood up and regained her composure. “Since I am one of those heads… I can assure everything that I promised.” There was some slight murmuring throughout the room. Zalis let it happen and refused to reign them back in. It was her goal to get them talking. Gystur was attempting to set himself up in a position to take the lead of this ragtail group of misfits. He held loyalty with the majority of them, and she knew this and exactly how difficult it would be to get them to agree on this deal. But part of what she offered up, along with some truth of what was actually happening would keep things from spiraling out of control. She picked up her drink as Akor’ketez leaned in to whisper. “Ma’am, speaking of the five, the Pyke’s are unhappy with the recent events at Outer Haven. They’re claiming it was a deliberate move by Black Sun and Crimson Dawn to push competition out. They’ve requested a meeting.” Zalis kept her eyes on the table, but within her own mind began to race a bit. If the Pyke’s moved openly, it would draw more attention to the inner workings taking place and could jeopardize the entire phase of operations she had set into motion. Not letting her eyes give anything away, she kept them focused on the center of the table and spoke in a whisper in return. “Have the Hutt’s agreed to this meeting? If that mad Bakkull is willing to travel, you can bet it’s being taken seriously by Crymorah as well…” Akor’ketez offered up a slightly sympathetic look, which he knew she didn’t see. “Unfortunately it does appear to be that outcome.” Letting out a sigh, she set her glass down with a load thud that almost broke the glass. “Whatever is going through your heads, know this. The galaxy is on the verge of changing. The winds of change are running high. Clear signs of it are obvious when you see things like the Alliance boldly striking out at Outer Haven, or their strong and surprise move and victory at Korriban. Getting contracts is about to be a hard thing. I’m not asking for anyone to vote on this proposal yet. Instead, take this contract before you know, as a good favor and omen towards the guild. The contract calls for each Hunter to receive ten grand worth of credits for participating. A bonus of three grand will be given if accepted today, along with one free purchase from the Black Sun black market. You have one rotation to accept, and two to get the job done. Good day.” Zalis turned and gave Akor’ketez a pat on the shoulder, letting him know she was handing everything over to him for the rest of the meeting, and she then began to walk out towards the private landing pad of the Czerka office.
  5. The air that came rushing into the Supremacy in the private hangar for Zalis was something refreshing and almost disarming for her. Ord Mantell was home to her, and she really couldn't explain it. The Black Sun empire had found its roots here and opened up many doors for her to expand Czerka and HealthiDrive. Even as she walked down the ramp, she could sense that her empire she had created was welcoming her with open arms. At the bottom of the ramp waited Fluanern, who gave both her and Ve a bow as they reached the bottom of the ramp. “Ma’dam, Titan has been operating at full capacity and has requested a few more additional staff to help run some of the more daily operations. More specifically they want for you to lift the hiring freeze.” Zalis almost rolled her eyes as she kept walking towards the main facility. Fluanern and Ve followed behind her without missing a step. “Of course they do. They won’t get it. The freeze is a business bureau issued mandate, and we don’t have anywhere near enough chips to play that type of hand. Send a small crew from the casinos and gambling pits here to work the ship. For now, I need to have 10,000 kilos of Yarrock that needs to be cleaned, slated and processed for delivery to HealthiDrive. It’s a top priority. I don’t want the Alliance or anyone else snooping around and finding a reason to shut down the entire operation.” Fluarnern quickly pulled out a comlink and sent word to staff to get the Supremacy unloaded and prepared for it’s next adventure, whatever it may be. As the trio entered the building, she turned towards Fluarnern. “Get Ve here up to date on protocol and give him clearance. Then send him to my office.” Zalis then broke off from the two and headed towards her office while the others went to get the rest of what she requested done. She quickly found her chair and sunk into it, letting the weight of everything that transpired on Outer Haven slowly sink in. The moment to process it went quickly, as about forty seconds later her console beeped at her, letting her know that Akor’ketez was calling. She sat upright and repositioned herself before accepting the call. “Yes?” “Zalis, the request has come in officially from Fluarnern for a massive load of spice to be taken in by HealthiDrive. They do not have the storage space for it... “ Zalis let out a heavy sigh. “Well, they’re going to have to find a way to utilize it. I got stuck with it after a quick trip to Outer Haven went sour.” The Twi’lek on the other end raised his eyebrow. “Yes, the Holonet is buzzing with what just transpired on Outer Haven.” “Mamoi made a bold move and undercut us. I’m pretty sure she got a tip that the Alliance was planning on striking there and took the opportunity to remove competition. Although I don’t have the proof to even begin to pin her for it.” There was a slight smile from her top Vigo. “An idea for you Ma’am. The Bounty Hunters guild is looking for some backing and a place to get a fresh start… “ Zalis leaned back in her chair and pondered the situation for a moment. The idea was a bold one in return for the bold move made against her. And the main ports of Malidris would be a strong suit for many travelers and a way to really bolster up income across the board. She wondered for a moment if the business bureau cooperation would have any objections to the expansion there. But seeing as she wouldn’t be actually hiring anything new, just taking over… ”Gather them to you. I’ll help personally deliver everything to you on Taris. From there, the scheme of ours can really get failproof.”
  6. The starlines completely encased the Supremacy, giving the rapid color change in the cockpit of dark blue to near white. There was a moment of pause before Zalis let out a sigh of relief. She turned towards the Yarkora. He looked at her for a moment before he spoke. He clearly wanted to break the ice. “Since you’re all formal and not at the same time. Name is Ve Livan. Balchi trusted you, so I will as well. But I have so many questions about what just transpired.” She leaned back within her chair, putting her feet up on the main console of the ship. “Well, feel free to ask away. We’ve got a little bit of time.” She already knew what he would ask. Many people were unsure of the inner workings of everything that she did. She kept it that way on purpose. The less people knew of the grand picture, the more likely plans kept in motion regardless of whatever transpired with her. She glanced over at Ve as he processed how he would start. “You said on Outer Haven that the Alliance would have to take full control over the station in order for it to be successful… What gives you such insights?” She now leaned back and looked up at the hull of the ship. “Places like Outer Haven that have been overrun by criminal activity that’s so blatantly open have a hard time transitioning. Everyone that’s there depends upon some form of the activity that was going on. To remove the activity like the Alliance is attempting to do will do one of two things. It will revert back to it’s prior state within two months after the Alliance leaves…. Or everyone who lived there dies off or leaves in search of what they need. A full occupation is the only way to secure a stable way of life. Liberating places like that do more damage to life without a takeover plan in place.” Zalis now pulled her feet off the control board and looked at Ve directly in the eye. “Every action has a reaction. Whether for good or evil intents. The Alliance wants to remove criminal activity in hives like Outer Haven. But to do so without fully taking control and possession over the place… kills the life that they spare.” The Yarkora turned his head to look outwards towards the streaking starline of hyperspace to think for a moment. After a good ten seconds passed, he turned and quickly asked a new question. “You had me broadcast a Czerka beacon to the Alliance fleet… What was it?" Zalis now offered up a very wild grin. “Czerka still falls under the business bureau, which does business with everyone. The Sith Empire, the Alliance and everyone who needs supplies from major companies. Under the business bureau, all goods get reimbursed when a loss takes place. The Yarrock we’re currently carrying from Iridonia is worth somewhere between forty-five to sixty-five million credits. If we are delayed in getting it to Healthidrive, a company of which I own, or if it’s lost, under the beacon will be known of the loss. And with such information, the Alliance would have to respond one of three ways. Pay the costs outright to Czerka. Resupply the goods, and we both know they’d never do that. Or they allow themselves to get blacklisted from Czerka.” She now returned to her position of putting her feet up. “While getting blacklisted doesn’t sound bad, especially from a company that they ‘know’ has ties to Black Sun… Czerka supplies a good twenty five percent of the daily operations to the Alliance. I know this, because I check the books regularly.” Ve Livan let out a sigh and turned back towards the starlines before him. “So you’ve managed to put yourself in a position that’s almost untouchable…” Zalis wiggled around slightly. “I wouldn’t say untouchable. Just in a position where there would always be consequences for taking actions against me. There is plenty of room to be caught and pinned down for other things. Like actually getting caught on Outer Haven without any purpose in being there.” Ve slowly nodded his head and touched a few things on the console before him. He suddenly out of the blue just asked what Zalis was sure was his final question. “What’s Grooming Station?” “Groom station is a location on Ord Mantell. It’s used to process supplies that come in, make them untraceable, and then prepare them for being redistributed out to whichever company under the umbrella needs them. Right now, it’s Healthidrive. We need to get them quickly in order to make sure the Alliance stays off our back.” There was a beeping from the console. “Speaking of which, it looks like we’re almost there…”
  7. The old runner system was much larger than Zalis would have expected. Dropping into the fairly large tunnel, she could see how one might never actually know of its existence, let alone be able to detect such large amounts of illegal materials getting moved. No wonder Calmin sought this place with such fervor. The thought was slightly lost as Balchi dropped into the tunnel system and took up the majority of the free flowing room. She watched as he pulled the grate over to hide their tracks. The Yarkora stood at the front of the group, hunched over slightly, attempting to read a datapad. After a few seconds he spoke rather loudly. “While good at moving things, the dense materials keep anything from getting a good signal down here.” Zalis walked forward and looked at the datapad. “Is it going to be a problem?” With a quick glance back at her, he responded plainly. “No. It just makes it harder to get a signal. This way.” Without much of another word, he quickly began to move. The Shistavanen pushed past her to follow, and Balchi placed a hand upon her shoulder with a soft nod. He then began to move, but ushered Zalis to remain ahead of him. “You’ll have to excuse Romos and Ve. They both have spent so much time here that the choices before them of a better life is a lie. This place has done that to them. To so many here.” Zalis kept her eyes forward as she moved to follow the two before her. Her mind raced with questions, but nothing seemed like an appropriate thing to ask at such a time. The Herglic kept going to break the train of thought that she wasn’t able to find an exit for. “I know that Black Sun profits from the Republic striking at this place. But for everyone else here? They’ll fight to the death. Surrender isn’t an option for many. The lifestyle created at this place has been locked for decades now, and maintaining their way is the only freedom they know. The Republic will soon find that out. Many will attempt to kill themselves without their lifestyle being fed, others will die fighting to keep it from the Republic. And yet others like ourselves, will find a better pit to fall into.” The words stung slightly. She always knew that Black Sun created a culture within the underbellies of most civilizations that forced many to cling to the organization. She just didn’t realize that many couldn't find a way out if they were removed. She wondered for a moment about Ord Mantell and what would ever happen if the Republic attempted to free that location. “Success always has a price. Very few see the true costs of it.” The Herglic laughed. “Spoken like a true leader of Black Sun. You understand, yet you do not care.” Zalis turned and looked at him for a second before turning her head back around. “Care is perspective. The Republic believes it cares for everyone here. They’ll do more damage through caring. I know what I want, and I don’t care what I have to do to gain it.” Balchi shrugged, a motion that Zalis didn’t see. “You mistake my tone. I am not insulting you. To have such callous convictions and aim, you actually set yourself apart. You are far more deadlier than anyone I can think of because of it. And if you are that convicted to hold to your purpose… few will ever be able to take you down.” The words hung in the air for a second. She brushed a bit of her hair out of the way as she could see the Yarkora begin to slowly open a secret door panel. She quickly moved alongside him to see one of the hangars. Her ship, Supremacy, sat on the other side of the large hangar. “No troops visibly present.” "Doesn’t mean there aren’t any…” Zalis looked at the Yarkora. “Diplomacy has some merit once we get one my ship” She said as she pointed towards the Supremacy. “Until then, nothing should stand in our way. Shoot to kill and don’t let anyone report our position.” The Shistavanen pushed past all of them and began to run towards the ship. As Zalis went to follow, her shoulder was grabbed and was pulled backwards. There was a loud shout of something saying stop, followed by a few blaster fire. The Yarkora looked down at her. “My hearing is strong… There is still a presence of soldiers here. Move to the left and let's work our way towards the massive lift haulers.” Feeling slightly grateful that the Yarkora saved her from a doom, she looked back at Balchi for a moment before stepping out and following carefully behind the Yarkora. As the group moved along the floor, six Gotals showed up at the other end of the hangar, began yelling and screaming and shooting at some of the Republic soldiers. They didn’t notice the small crew, nor did they seem to care for anything other than protecting whatever they wanted to protect. Because of it, it caused the perfect distraction for the three to move more openly towards Zalis’ ship. Upon arriving, Zalis took notice that there were docking clamps upon her ship. “The frak!” A blaster shoot went off almost immediately after she spoke. Balchi screamed at the other two. Get on the ship, I’ll deal with the docking clamps. There was no hesitation from Zalis, she quickly opened her ramp and up she went, and moved towards the cockpit of the Supremacy. As she sat down and began to power up the ship, the Yarkora sat next to her, amidst a few more blaster shoots could be heard outside of the ship. There was a very clear a distinct loud "GO!" from the back area followed by the sound of the ramp closing. She wasted little time in pulling away quickly. The blaster fire continued outside, and as the ship turned around for a better exit, both Zalis and the Yarkora, Ve Livan observed the massive Herglic using a blaster or two of his own, firing back at the Republic troops, attempting to keep their eyes from clearly identifying the ship. The Supremacy moved rapidly from the hangar and Zalis shouted at the Yarkora. "Switch to broadcast signal seven-five-one. It's a Czerka official beacon and under the business bureau, the Republic is forbidden from firing on a transporting class carrying medical goods." She saw the Yarkora do exactly as she asked, quickly moving towards the now massive size fleet beginning the process starting up it's gravity wells. "We're running out of time, pull up the coordinates for Grooming Station-STAT!" She watched to see when she had clearance for the jump, while at the same time eyeing the ships before them. While if they were caught, it wouldn't be the end, but it would complicate and slow things down. She wanted to clear the area cleaning if she could... and then she had permission. Here goes nothing. With that thought, she pulled the lever for hyperspace. To a smal relief, the hyperspace starlines streaked and reamined. It was a close escape. She figured they missed the gravity wells by a millisecond.
  8. Zalis moved along with Balchi down the hallway, until he turned into a shop that seemed rather run down and unoccupied. As she followed him in, there were suddenly two other beings in the room with them. They barely acknowledged her and spoke directly the Herglic. “Bad news Balchi, it appears as if Rebel forces are here. Reports are that they are cleaning house of everything against their rules.” Zalis leaned against a wall with a loud sound. “Who cares? They’d have to fully wipe out everyone here in order to take control. That’s a little dark for them.” The Yarkora, the one who spoke earlier, turned and gave an expression of disgust. “Or perhaps you are the one who brought them here?” Zalis suddenly got off the wall and moved her arms into a movement that suggested she was slightly offended at the thought. She never got a chance to respond, as the other in the room, a Shistavanen spoke up instead. “Bigger companies are always looking to remove competition, and a place like Outer Haven has long kept Black Sun at a slow crawl.” Like a quick whip, her response was fast. “As much as I’d love to run this place into the ground, bringing the Republic here is a stupid business move as it would quickly dissolve potential expansions. You’d be so lucky if I fo-” “ENOUGH!” Balchi’s voice echoed through the entire room. There was a very long pause as the Herglic looked at everyone before speaking. “Zalis did not bring them here. Clamin’s leftover security forces will protect his empty office, which most likely will be the target. Unfortunate for them that such an office will hold nothing of value. But it’s a lucky break for us. Look at our situation Romros and Ve. We work as hired muscle for a ghost. Credits are slow. However… Our luck has turned.” Balchi turned and indicated Zalis. She suddenly felt the winds of fate turning in her favor. While coming here to pick up crew was not her goal, such a surprise benefit would be something that could help her. She relaxed her body a bit more and eyed all three within the room with her. Her mind was already racing with options and thoughts. “So you’re looking to change teams?” Balchi made a weird noise within his throat right before he spoke. “Change teams- no. Survive and get paid better, yes. There isn’t much room for growth and survival in a place like this. Our best bet was always to land with a bigger company. And now that fate has delivered the Republic here to aggressively impose their will onto others, it brings forth a rare opportunity with your timely arrival.” There was a very loud sigh of surender from the Shistavanen. “As much as I hate to admit it, Balchi is right. We need to get out of this place to have a better life.” Zalis eyed the quiet Yarkora, who kept his head down. “Getting out is going to be hard. If they’re already here, any visible sight of me could result in a change of priorities. While Czerka is untouchable by the Republic, me being here gives the full connection to Black Sun. It’ll get us all killed.” There was more silence before the Yarkora lifted his head. “The old runner system. It depends upon how much research was done on this place before they came, and if they are attempting to monitor the entire population here. But it should be a safe way to the hangars…” Zalis looked at the other two, whom were thinking through the other options available. After about a moment or two passed without the others saying a word, she spoke up and took charge. “It’s our best chance at this point. We don’t have time to think of something better. Let’s move.” There was no movement for a second, until Zalis snapped her fingers at the three. “Move!” That was about all that the Yarkora needed, and he turned around and moved towards a wall, quickly going to work to remove a panel on the floor. Balchi moved and closed the doors to the shop that they were in, while the Shistavanen quickly began to grab as many weapons as he could find. Zalis took a moment to observe the three. Within her mind, she wondered if perhaps one of them could become a champion for the vigos down the road. But until they got off the station, she wouldn’t say anything.
  9. Her arrival was met by many within the hangars as minimal at best. Outer Haven was not known for their inviting atmosphere, nor did they really take a corporate head of a major crime syndicate as someone worth their time. It both pleased and annoyed her beyond belief. She half expected to have side comments or rude remarks, as such she normally receives when entering a more heavily freelance zone of crime and vice. She moved through the hallways, somewhat nonchalant as she cared not for the side business, which proceeded without any hesitation or delay, much like any other day. It was the epitome of the entire location- zero cares for the core or authority. Calmin Ayion made sure of that when he ran the place. He built up an empire of structures that clearly survived long after his death. Turning a corner, she saw the shop that she was supposed to drop off the 10,000 kilos of Yarrock she brought as a payment from Mamoi to Calmin. Zalis took a breath before she entered, wondering and dreading if she would indeed see the Miraluka or the Wookiee. When she saw neither, she finally let out a breath. Walking up to the main counter where a Rodian and a Sullustan stood. “I’m here to drop off goods for a dead man. Any idea why?” The Rodian looked at her, annoyed and returned to his work. The Sullustan flat out ignored her. She stood for a moment before speaking up again. “Calmin Ayion is dead. Who am I supposed to drop off a shipment for him if this is the location of said drop off?” The Sullustan finally walked away from the counter after she finished. She wondered if she should follow him, when the Rodian finally spoke. “Ma’dam Zalis. Many here will not speak or do business with you, because you are the head of Black Sun. You make it hard for us to maintain business, as much as we make it hard for you. You’ll have to change your tactics and style if you expect anything else to be accomplished.” Her annoyance began to rise, along with her own anger. She didn’t want to be here. Such places were a breeding ground that kept profits low and harder to come by. “Mamoi sends Yarrock to be delivered for a debt of hers. I only care about settling such debt due to the fact that I need access to what she can provide. Or maybe I should find a way to buy such a facility and run it in a way that forces slime out.” “There’s no need to get angry, Queen of Vice. I know where to drop such a load.” Zalis turned around to face the voice, while the Rodian quickly turned his own head downwards to focus on cleaning some blaster. Her eyes met something she was not expecting. A massive blueish purple looking Herglic. There was a slight pause before she spoke, letting for the first time surprise get the better of her. “You know who the Yarrock is for?” The Herglic only nodded his head and then began to move towards the doorway towards one of the many halls of the facility. Zalis took a step or two before she decided to follow him out. Upon entering the hallway, he spoke again. “Name’s Balchi. I’ve become the main muscle here since the death of Jathrrro. Poor Wookiee went insane after his master’s death. Most of what you see here are now fully independent hives of black market dealers, spice runners, and everything else that falls under illegal activity.” He turned and looked at Zalis and gave a slight chuckle. “You think too much for this place.” Zalis raised an eyebrow almost in a surender like fashion. “Well, my thinking is what keeps my own business booming. But allow me to entertain my thinking. upon you. How does Calmin collect debts if he’s dead?”
  10. Zalis sat in the cockpit of the Supremacy and stared at the starlines of hyperspace as she traveled from Iridonia to the Outer Haven. Her mind wondered for a moment how much of this was worth it. Setting up an empire of Czerka alongside Black Sun was an undertaking she knew would require a ton of leg work and people pleasing for a while. And a lot if it was fairly simple and easy for her to do. But to show up in the massive hive spot known as Outer Haven was an undertaking she didn’t think she’d ever have to do. Such a place made dealing with the Hutts seem like child's play compared to how the entire facility ran at Haven. Calmin she was sure was dead- those reports of his death surfaced many years ago, long before the Crusaders even struck at Coruscant. In fact, she was sure that she still owned a stake at the Golden Link Casino when he died. Yet somehow, here she was, being sent by the Zabraks to finish a deal they had with him. Part of her wondered if the dark fur Wookiee, Jathrrro, still operated the facility quietly under the guise of Calmin. He was a poor beast that through heavy manipulation served the Miraluka filled with rage. Either way, she would soon find out the nature of Outer Haven and what sort of business she could accomplish there, along with what sort of profits could be squeezed from it.
  11. The Supremacy made a very graceful landing in the spaceport of Malidris. Zalis walked down the landing ramp to be greeted by three city officials accompanied by eight security guards. The guards were all dressed in black and gold uniforms, while the city officials, two males and one female, were dressed in an assortment of other colors and clothes that made Zalis’ own black dress blend more in with the security. As she approached them, she gave a slight bow. “Welcome to Malidris Lady Krales. We have been eagerly awaiting a chance to set up Czerka shops here for sometime. We are very grateful for your arrival.” The female Zabrak was the one who spoke. She offered up a small smile as she stepped forward. “The eight Rihkxyrk fighters you custom ordered are on a transport ship awaiting delivery instructions.” She offered up a smug smile for a moment. "Your spaceports have long since been within our eyes at Czerka Corporation. To have the opportunity to share with you in the rewards of growing your great cities all over Iridonia is a dream I wouldn't dare pass up." Offering up a smile of her own, the female Zabrak spoke with a hint of insider knowledge. "My Name is Mamoi. I have Pena and Aodruu with me. We were hoping you could do us a favor in your adventures." Zalis kept her smile, but she knew that the request was most likely one she would absolutely not enjoy. "I am of course happy to do anything to help bolster our relationship." "Yarrock. 10,000 kilos of it stored on crates that we need delivered to an old friend of us both." Zalis took a moment and looked back The Supremacy. It would be a tight fit, even more so depending upon where this old friend of both would be located. Even more so depending upon the friend. Her head titled back towards Mamoi, a little bit weary. She had never met the Zabraks before, so this mutual friend was one highly connected to the old school Black Sun, of which her name within the Black Markets and other illegal activities of the galaxy would always be associated with. Granted, she was still the head of the organization, so she didn't mind. Expect for this case. She almost never trusted many that were still tied to the old ways. Carefully, she chose her words, accepting the deal without saying it. "Who is this friend..." Mamoi smile grew even bigger. With a wave of her hand, she signaled for the crew to load the Yarrock on the ship. "Calmin Ayion..."
  12. The work put in was massive, not just on the ships brought, but also on the facility as well. It had taken a long while, but Zalis had finally managed to gain some headway in creating a perfect space to outfit ships on Dubrillion. Even now, Zalis was a bit amazed at how long it took, mainly due to the resources to keep such a facility large enough to produce products for any warring factions, but also small enough to not get noticed by any of the bigger factions to take an interest in what she was doing. She sat behind the main desk with Jesper standing opposite of her, Akor'ketez and Fluanern on holodisplays on either side. Jesper was finishing up some of his major points of what the facility could now fully offer up. "And as promised, about 3 corvettes have the ability to land and have outfitting, but nothing major outside of a few upgrades. The eight Rihkxyrk fighters you brought have now been fully outfitted for localized defense, to which you said were going to..." He looked down in an attempt to remember where he was told. Zalis held up her hand, to which Jesper didn't see. "No need to call details. You've done a good job under the circumstances, even so with having me breath down your neck the majority of the time." Her head tilted just slightly towards Akor'ketez. "You've already sent in your report on Titan, but since the majority of my figure heads all in one meeting, might as well speak them outloud." She kept her hands folded on the table as Akor'ketez spoke. "Titan has been running at max capacity for the past year. Since it's opening, we've pulled in triple what was expected on the books, although you ma'am have expressed before that you knew it would be a better pay off. We're fully booked for the next 3 standard months and everything remains on schedule. The BabyFace project is turning to be fairly productive in upping our image with systems who otherwise held a negative view of us. And I'm going to openly remind you now ma'am that within three weeks, the Queen Mother of Hapan is visiting and did request your presence to show her around. "Zalis now sunk in her chair. "That complicates the process at Iridonia in setting things up. Fluanern?" A slight head nod before he spoke, still wearing his favorite color of blue. "Ord Mantell assets are secure, and the majority of the investors in the local businesses have also taken a slight interest in our Black Market goods. Taris officials have poked around recently, as whomever is in charge of that office isn't doing a good job of keeping things quiet. And no ma'am, there is no record of who you left in charge there. There has also been a contact from Chandrila who has asked for a Czerka supply shop in return for some good charity. They technically are outside of the influence realm that you setup, so I decided I'd ask you before we moved forward with that." Zalis now put both hands on her face and rubbed her temple for a moment. She needed another vigo or two to help push the directive of the companies, but at such a time of war, while very profitable normally always lacked the right people to move up into such positions. After about a minute, she clasped her hands together and looked at everyone. "I'll be taking the eight Rihkxyrk fighters to Iridonia today and helping with the process of establishing both a Czerka office and supply shops in all major ports, along with Black Market goods to be fenced in. After that, I'm going to go to Titan as my home base for a short while, if anything to get some rest and relaxation. When I arrive, Akor'ketez, I'm going to have you transfer out to Taris and take over the operations there and clean them up a bit. Fluanern, you've done exceptionally with running Ord Mantell and Sandorne Palace. Maintain status quo there. And yes, I give my permission for you to setup something with Chandrila. Our next meeting with each other will be within a month's standard time." Zalis simply nodded her head and stood up. She had much to do and so very little time to get it all done. She was off planet within the hour and on her way to Iridonia with everything she would need to setup shops.
  13. Zalis looked out the viewport at the sight of the oceanic planet before her. Dubrillion was something of a mystery to her, as Black Sun always had ties to the planet, yet it never seemed as important to the rest of the galaxy. Narrowing her own eyes, she peered at the transport ships bringing in the Rihkxyrk fighters to be worked on. If luck held for her, they could be outfitted and prepared for delivery to some private investors. It would also legitimize that potential new operation of crafting smaller ships. About an hour later, she was on the surface, connecting with a few local operatives who ran the system. Still slightly hesitant of her due to their own lack of being connected to the larger galaxy. Jesper Fast, a human male who ran the facility walked alongside her as he gave a tour of the entire facility. He paused before the offices and too this time to question. “Ma’am, I don’t mean to be frank, but our facility hasn’t been used for anything too large scale, and Vigo Delta has pers-” Immediately she held up a finger to silence him. “Delta is no longer a Vigo and does not operate under Black Sun. If you check, his codes and clearances have already been revoked. The last communication you received from him is outdated, behind in the times, and was completely unaware of the change of plans or direction the organization was headed.” Zalis let the anger in her eyes flare as she stared Jesper down for a moment before she turned and opened the door to the office herself, making it clear who was in charge. “Things have changed Jesper. You either get on board or jump ship before I decide to replace you. Black Sun is mine, always has been. Disloyalty will and has been met with severe consequences. We have a galaxy to slowly put our fingers around again. The way it was run before I took over led it to multiple deaths and multiple leaders.” Zalis walked around the main desk and sat herself down in the chair, taking a moment to get comfortable within it. She signaled she was when she put both feet on the desk. “Outfitting ships with some blackmarket parts is only half the goal here. Its too small. Destrillion is within our reach and untouched. Since our loss of Bespin, we need Tibanna gas. Setup mining facilities on the planet and allow for us to bring in the fuel source again. I’m giving you five days time to show some sort of progress on that front. Failure to do so will result in a new Vigo in charge of this outfit. Go.” As she said the words ‘GO’, both of her feet returned to the ground. She stared daggers at Jesper as he left the office. Upon him leaving, she turned her attention to the main dataport and began to work on connecting with Akor’ketez to see how the expansion of facilities within some major ports were going…
  14. Zalis spent the majority of her time pouring over files, updating contacts, removing privileges from old agents and Vigos, along with checking on reports from all over the networks she had spent years and months pouring into. Every so often she would come across a contact or report that held Delta’s name in it and she would feel a slight ping of sadness from not having him around anymore. But she also understood the reasoning and need for him to be elsewhere. With the way Black Sun had grown and evolved into what it is now, he had slowly become irrelevant to the organization. For some reason, she knew that memories of their time together would always bring up emotions that she would rather not deal with. All of the reports showed promise of what she wanted, which was movement and progression on the fronts of establishing small pockets of communities where the crime would thrive through making the weaker and poorer parts codependent upon the top dogs holding them down, but providing just enough to keep them begging to get what they can. It was a system that while others may deem it cruel, was very much business like in every aspect. She deployed typical business practices used to keep her own company growing, yet climbing and making the others around it dependent upon the success of her own. It was a very useful skill to employ and use, even more so with pockets of society that she could easily help establish a dependency upon what she was offering. Spice, Vice, credits and fame were the things that drove people towards Black Sun, and it was within those elements that she bound a tight grip upon the galaxy. Too spread out to actively hunt or go to war with, yet too intertwined everywhere to ignore. Black Sun was now fully what she always wanted - a weed that grew everywhere with no real use of attempting to rid yourself of it, only pruning what you could. Akor’ketez walked into her office and held up a datapad. His movement was quick and with some excitement. His voice also carried with it that small hint of excitement. “Ma’am, Dubrillion has received its first shipment of supplies and is looking to get started on the adjustments that you requested. Huarl is requesting that join the shipments of Rihkxyrk fighters though, as a way of making sure that everything is also up to par…” Zalis looked at him as he was clearly letting his words hang for a reason. “...And this is not for the excitement that is within your voice. What else?” Akor’ketez sat down in a chair across from her desk and placed the datapad in front of her. “Dantooine and Iridonia have made requests for Czerka to open up a shop within their trading ports. Well, Dantooine only requested in Garang, while Iridonia has asked for a hub in all major ports.” Zalis took such information and leaned back in her chair. If she was to open hubs in such locations, she would need more materials from the contacts on the other side of the galaxy. It would also be a danger going through both Rebellion and Sith Empire space to retrieve such equipment. Looking up at the grand ceiling of her office and contemplated for a moment. “I’ll leave with the ships tonight. Post bulletin requesting for smugglers. We’re going to need to dive further into that employment field if we are to better sustain this operation. I’ll send you the details on what we’re looking for. Thank you Akor’ketez for your help.” Zalis packed herself and was onboard her own ship, the Supremacy, escorting the carrier ships transporting the eight Rihkxyrk fighters to Dubrillion within less than three hours.
  15. Akor’ketez walked into the main office of Zalis. The crimson and sapphire colored stones that sat upon the white floor and gold outline of windows made the entire room feel as if the place belonged to royalty of some sorts. It also made Zalis stand out with her typical white or black dresses she would wear, much like the black one she wore today. With a few datapads in his arms, he sat down at her desk alongside Fluanern. Zalis sat looking at a few things on a holo-display that was given from Fluanern, all of which seemed to rotate around Huesfan, whom the Twi’lek heard caused another fuss amongst the investors earlier until Zalis shut it down. Carefully setting down the datapads on the desk, he awaited his boss to be ready for him. “I approve of these two here-” Zalis spoke while pointing directly with her right hand at the holo-display. “But not these three. They’ll cause us a mess and resources that we can’t afford. Muscle and hired guns outside of bounty hunters are beneath us. Let other crime syndicates hold that low life perception.” She looked at Akor’ketez with a smile and turned to face the Bothan. “Although, this poison requires materials that we simply don’t have. We can claim them, but we don’t have the ability to refine them. Get a bulletin up to get a few smugglers hired for the job. Also, you are free to make the posting on Huesfan-but keep it discreet. No ties to us.” She tapped her finger on the holo-displays to close them and then slide them across the table back to Fluanern. As he took them and stood up, she spoke again. “Fluanern,... give Callika one of those gift baskets of weapons from the Midnight Corperation. Offer up an official apology to him. Don’t want to lose him as an investor anytime soon.” Zalis watched as Fluanern left the room and she turned to Akor’ketez, who was already ready to speak. “Subtle control over the planet - another way to vice grip our position?” Zalis looked down at the datapads and pulled them close to her before she responded. “Yes. Constantly feeding populations like this one makes them dependent upon us. Essentially meaning that taking us out when we are not the majority of the population but responsible for the majority of business means whomever does replaces us needs to continue to feed the large masses the way we’ve been feeding them, or else they watch it die out and become responsible for the death of the entire society.” She let out a heavy breath before she picked up one datapad and observed the details on it. From the corner of her eyes, she watched Akor’ketez ponder upon her words. She knew he was doing the math, which was simple. Black Sun was only about twenty percent of the population here on Ord Mantell, which was the largest concentration of their employees anywhere. Otherwise Czerka went through normal channels and operated more legit in business avenues, making it far harder for anyone to openly go after them as an ‘evil organization’, especially since Zalis makes them offer up resources for free in recovery efforts like on Corellia. Either way, she didn’t much care for his thoughts on the matter. She knew what she was doing. In order to make Black Sun impossible to destroy and have their legacy endure lightyears, she needed to make such changes. Looking back at the datapad, she began to really see what was proposed to her in the memos. “How expensive would it be to outfit these Rihkxyrk fighters?” It was a serious question that she knew Akor’ketez held the answer for already. “2k a piece. We have a few supplies being developed for the black market now within our research facility, along with a few upgrades throughout our contacts and independent stations to lower the overall cost. I believe that Midnight Corporation holds some of what we may need, and there would be the flex in price. But we do have a small base on Dubrillion in which we could use as the majority production line, which as you requested things to be- large enough to get the job done, but small enough that no one would notice it.” Zalis pondered upon it for a moment before she came to her own conclusion. “Make it happen. I’m sure we can sell a few, if not deploy them into our own security details.”
  16. Zalis walked through the halls of Sandorne Palace with some slight annoyance in the way she carried herself. Akor'ketez walked behind her until a moment when he ducked into a room to do some work. It was something that she admired about him, the ability to do his work without question and needing little to no oversight. He knew what she wanted and what he had to do to make such things happen. As she rounded a corner, she spotted Fluanern standing waiting for her at the entrance of the meeting room. He wore a blue looking tunic with what appeared to be a green vest. His eyes flashed at her a warning, followed by his own words speaking such a warning. "Callika is pissed. Huesfan is stirring up the other investors. Without shooting him... " Zalis stopped before him and took a moment to compose herself before taking the datapad from him. "I thought we calmed Huesfan down after the last time?" The Bothan shrugged for a moment. "He's an opportunist. He saw this as a chance to fluff up his own position amongst the other investors. I do have a few other options for him moving forward, but..." He stopped and looked at her. She knew what he was thinking and she was almost afraid to say it out loud that she agreed. With a slow head nod she looked directly into his eyes. "Dank Farrik!... Do it." She waited to enter the room until Fluanern walked away and towards his own personal office. As she opened the doors, the shouting that could be heard outside very muffled now turned up and was beyond loud. It took her about four seconds though to simply walk a bit into the room for everyone within the room to turn towards her and have their own voices die off. She just stood within the door for a moment before walking to take her seat at the head of the table. When she got there, she sat down and tossed the datapad the desk. "Quietly move your spice assets to a secure location... Yet some ambitious smugglers managed to be aware of everyone moving thier goods." She slowly looked around the room, taking a moment to lock eyes with everyone around the V-shaped looking table. She paused for a bit longer on Huesfan. "Gentleman, I do believe that the majority of you labor under the delusion that this is the Black Sun of old. We are not. I will not have a military force, enforcers or goons around to protect stupid actions. I am not Smash. You all choose to invest within us and allow for us to become the pillar of focus on this planet. When that happened, I informed everyone about how things would be run. Just because I am not here doesn't mean that such said vision is tossed out like bad coaxium. Now I am sure that some here are upset with how things were handled. But allow for me to offer these words up." Zalis stood up and placed both hands upon the table. "I will not let others dictate how I do things, nor will I be bullied into bad business either. From here on, Black Sun will operate exactly how I told you we would way back when. I will provide you with massive clientele and help stir and move people into your own businesses for the sake of good business. But don't look to us for protection. Protect your own damn interests." Zalis took another moment to look around and lock eyes with everyone at the table before she sat back down. She then lifted her hand and waved everyone out of the room without offering up a single word. With anger, Huesfan left first making it known that he was not happy with Zalis. The last one to leave was Callika who took a moment to really look at Zalis before he walked out of the room. After everyone left, Zalis let out a sigh. And now I need to figure out who the hell was brave enough to attempt such a move...
  17. Zalis and Akor’ketez sat in the bridge of the Supremacy as it entered the system. ALmost immediately, the comsystem began blaring. Akor'ketez quickly checked it before turning back to Zalis. "Ma'am, Fluanern is reporting that Sandorne is getting alerts that one of our clients is currently having their spice stolen." Zalis gave a very annoyed look at her trusty assistant. "It's not even our spice?" The Twi'lek shook his head as he responded. "No ma'am. All of ours is cold stored in the underground facility, and with the recent events of Kessel, we've urged our other... supporters to move theirs to a safer location, hence the reason pirates or rival gangs might be attempting to steal theirs." Zalis turned her annoyed face to look at the planet before her. She allowed for herself to process what was going on for a moment. "Let them take it. It's not our problem what happens to spice. But lets not have them escape without being noticed. Flag the ships and send a few MorningStar's in pursuit of them to make it look convincing." Zalis then stood up and walked out of the cockpit and towards the back of the ship so that she could get ready to meet with the rest of the Vigos and other officials whom were expecting her shortly. Today began the completely new era that she had worked so hard to establish. ************* Sandorne Palace sent out almost immediately after getting word from Akor'tetez, 4 MorningStar-C starfighters up after the raiders taking the spice. Almost as soon as they got in range, they began to open up fire on the ship being hijacked, making it clear to everyone involved that Black Sun held no interest in keeping the spice, only teaching a lesson.
  18. Zalis and Akor’ketez were quick to make sure that everyone of their supplies went where they were supposed to, and that her men understood to provide as much support as needed to help the planet, along with making sure they all had direct contact with her in case more supplies were needed. The two then took off. "Where to Ma'am?" It didn't take Zalis long to respond. SHe knew exactly what was needed next. "Ord Mantell. We have much work to do."
  19. Zalis took a moment to fully study the man before her before she responded. He was aged in many ways, all of them good. She wondered if perhaps down the road he might become a more suitable ally in her other ventures. Offering up a smile to Godfrey, she let her voice carry a sweetness with it. "Allowing us to provide relief efforts is enough. Hopefully down the road I can provide more for you." She quickly finished her biscuit that she had taken earlier and gave a head nod to Akor’ketez before turning her attention back to Godfrey. "We will be making sure that everything is unloaded correctly and distributed to the right places. After that, me and my assistant Akor’ketez will leave the planet, but the ship crews of the freighters will remain for relief efforts. If you have any other needs or have a need for more supplies, don't hesitate to ask them and I will personally make sure that we get you what you need." Zalis gave a slight bow and then turned to walk out of the main office of Godfrey.
  20. Zalis waved off any refreshments, as she was still slightly still recovering from her recent battle. But it was nothing that Godfrey needed to know. She had other things she wanted to accomplish today. HIs words hinted at the two maybe having fought or had some sort of dealing with each other before she rose higher within the ranks of Black Sun, but she honestly held no memory of it. Maybe because it didn't help her move forward as much as she would have liked. But no matter, like he said, the needed the help. "It's not just Czerka today. HealthiDrive is also mine, and we're providing medical supplies to the population. Czerka is here to provide resources in the rebuilding effort, along with finding ways to help get the economy back on its feet." While she wasn't thirsty, she did take a small biscuit and took a bite out of it before continuing for Godfrey. "There is nothing needed in return. We are here to simply help. Corellia is too important of a system to let things not get back on its feet."
  21. Zalis was a bit surprised at how quickly the local body of government responded to her. She and her assistant Akor’ketez were escorted to the main command center. As she walked in, she wondered for a moment if her outfit would be a problem, as she never fully thought through that aspect of it before, but realized it was of little importance at the moment. The laid back attire of boots, red shirt and black jacket were enough as many here would not care if she looked as fancy as she normally does. Upon entry, she saw whom she recognized as the once Senator Godfrey, who now most likely held a different title then what he did before. She gave him a slight bow. "Godfrey I presume. I am Zalis Krales."
  22. Whatever felt emotions she had had, she was slowly losing them upon entering the bridge of her own ship. There was still pain, yet not enough at this point to keep her down. She sat down, letting PD-087 pilot the ship into the system as Akor’ketez sat in the co-pilots chair as Corellia came into view. He turned to look at her, but then turned his attention back towards what he was doing, speaking rather calmly. “Two of the recovery relief vessels have just arrived in the system. They’re all marked with HealthiDrive and Czerka. Would you like for me to request special landing requests for us?” Zalis pondered upon it for a moment before shaking her head. “No. We want the people on our side. Land with the rest.” She then stood up and walked back to get herself fully ready for what was about to happen on the surface of the planet. After they had landed, Zalis walked down the ramp with Akor’ketez at her side. Quickly one of the dock workers recognized her and began to stumble and panic for a second until she spoke. “No need to panic. I’m here representing HealthiDrive and Czerka. We have brought two transports full of supplies to help the relief efforts." She pointed towards the two incoming ships. "Get the HealthiDrive ship supplies unloaded and to the medical wards that need the supplies. The Czerka ship has food and other supplies needed to help rebuild. I personally would like to see to devastation personally to see what else I can do to help rebuild this world."
  23. Zalis felt a slight sting that was far more annoying over all of the other pain she was experiencing at the moment. It was located within her lower spine, but the last thing she wanted to do was make a sound. Her eyes darted from a bright light that annoyed her to a display showing the time. It clicked within her mind that very soon Czerka was about to send off aid packages she had set up enroute to Kessel, but with the procedures she had set up within the organization, they would have to get a verbal confirmation. A fast PR storm could easily be worked up as Czerka and HealthiDrive were delayed on purpose by whomever Terra was working for. Typical stuff like that quickly kept favor on her side for a moment and stirred distrust the other way. These were typical procedures for her to constantly maintain a steady flow of credits, and by this point, they were impossible for anyone to stop. Within the now ragged and destroyed jacket, she wished to be back in her black dress she wore for Kane on Coruscant. She also wished she didn’t store the weapon basket she received from him in her ship. She was sure that PD-087 was flying the ship on direct course to medical attention, but that wasn’t what she wanted. Granted, she was very thankful that she had installed in all of the droids within Black Sun certain protocols that kept key members alive and well as best as they could, as it was part of what got her out alive. She wasn’t sure how she got from the mines to the ship, but she heard shooting and some explosions. Most likely it was a droid or two that was still on the ship that activated themselves to engage in PV01 programming she installed. PD-087 was the one who got her on the ship, she was sure of that much. As she lay, she heard her comlink buzz and she tried to search for it, slowly stirring around but not having much luck. After a moment, the door to the room she was in opened and there was Akor’ketez, the Twi’lek assistant she had since the beginning of her time in a high level at Black Sun. “I thought I had you running things on Titan?” He walked in and placed a blue skin hand on her shoulder. “There were reports coming from a few former and current Vigos that hinted you may need to be rescued. As it turns out, my gut was correct. And Titan is doing fine. There was no one of importance on board this journey, so I took the time to come to you.” As he talked, he quickly injected her with a stimulant of some nature and then handed her the comlink. "I currently have us enroute to Corellia, as per a scheduled marking from PD-087. Once you’re dressed and feel up to it, you can come to the bridge of Nimbus."
  24. While Zalis got a very small glimpse at Terra through the mess and hazy that was being created. It was going rather well, all things considering. She wasn’t dead yet and the Mandalorians seemed flustered to some degree. She could really tell what was going on with the others who were in the mines with her any more, only Terra. But that was because she was attempting to stay alive herself and to keep Terra from doing something stupid. The initial charge didn’t truly flush Terra, so much as the explosions she had created around her caused her to move. It forced the former assassin to change her own plans and make a hard stop and bolt run at her target’s new direction. In the heat of the moment, Zalis crushed and wished hell upon Terra for a quick moment for the next move, but when she gets a chance to look bad, she’ll thank whatever deity she would need for the pure insanely lucky non-fatal strike that almost could have killed her. With a sharp pain in her right calf, the turn and charge made her stumble and begin to fall in a weird and crazy lurching forward like motion. It was that sharp pain that had her catch a flechette shot in her left side of her stomach, followed rather quickly by a grazing like shot in her upper left shoulder, causing her to hit the ground into a tumble roll, dropping one of her blasters. The roll took her to come rather close with Terra. Close enough that if she wasn’t in the midst of a firefight, she would have noticed the upgraded armor since their last meeting. But such a luxury was not available to her in the moment, just survival. Instinct took over and she forced herself to stop the roll to gain a good position to open fire with her right hand, nothing major, just a spray of fire to get Terra to move, even if it was towards her in a fist fight. Through the pain, with nothing but pure adrenaline to keep her moving, she withdrew her other vibrodagger and flung it at Terra, followed by a kicking motion. The fling was designed to only put the blade in the woman enough to get her to stop. The kick was designed that the vibrodagger would penetrate the armor. It was her best move she could provide, at least from the stance of not trying to kill Terra. She wanted her opponent to live through this, along with herself. ((3))
  25. The chaos ensued rather quickly and Zalis had her entire thought process turned upside down. After her blaster fire onslaught, the return fire began rather quickly. She saw from the corner of her eyes a flash of something off the durasteel pipe, her gut instincts told her that a grenade of some sorts was about to go off and take her day from bad to worse. So without thinking, she jumped up and ran out and down towards another durasteel column, much closer to where she came in. While she made the attempt to stay low, it ended up being a mistake, for as soon as she got out from behind her cover, she quickly felt a heat searing pain strike her left forearm. It was a clean through shot, and it made her stumble towards the ground as she lost her balance. Upon hitting the ground, her legs must have failed around as her right leg was suddenly feeling the exact same heat searing pain. Instinctively, she allowed herself to remain upon the ground in a roll until she was no longer in a position of immediate danger. Her mind was racing, as she had to act quickly in order to maintain any form of threat level to the Mandalorians. She looked to her left to see the Troig. It seemed to be on a firing spree, shooting off rockets of sorts and whatever else it had on its arsenal, creating a very large fire arc. Zalis put one of her blasters away, wincing through the pain, which seemed to be more targeted in her forearm. She knew what she had to do. Closer combat, while dangerous with Mandalorians, was far less dangerous than ranged fighting. They held a supreme upper hand behind cover and remained at a range. Up close though, the ground was evened out slightly more. So now was the time for her thermal detonator. She quickly activated it and sent it hurling towards the direction of the column near the wreckage, but she wanted it to go low to stay out of sight. If it did its job, it would scatter the Mandalorians into her direct path and towards the Troig. If she was lucky, it would also take a few of them out, even temporarily. After she threw her detonator, she charged hard towards the right of the processing loom that she was sure Terra was behind, but not taking shots at her, but rather the loom, in hopes to blow it up or to cause enough of a disturbance to flush Terra out fully. Zalis just needed to push through the pain she was feeling within her left arm and right calf muscle. ((2))
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