OOC: Keep in mind that the Sullustans over time have developed technology to allow their chatter to become coherent and verbalize as Basic when speaking with different entities. Part of the reason for the change from their native language came as a directive from Sei Maru himself as a phase in the development program he proposed for Sullust.



Space was eerily quiet, but the whispers of partisan rhetoric still traveled at speeds faster than light across the galaxy. Companies came and went since the inception of the Empire, but luckily, the diehard conglomerates that made use of political strategy survived over the decades. Like making strong and valued investments, those still-standing industries made wise decisions for their business’ future. Volcanoes erupted with large eddies of lava overflowing, crashing against the brittle, hardened mountain walls. The stale air nipped at lungs as fiery embers floated sending a violent reminder of the planet’s surroundings and environment. The lava flowing and the thick clouds of ash could be seen from space. It was that time again: there was heavy volcanic activity on Sullust with much of the Sullustans hunkering down for the unbearable climate for next few days.

Emerging from the shadow of Sulon, a nearby moon and Sullust’s only satellite, a shuttlecraft made its stately appearance, wrapped in cool teal durasteel hull with the bright green and orange emblem of SoroSuub Corporation etched on either side. The shuttle dropped to one-third impulse as the Sullustan authorities cleared its approach. Double laser cannons were at the ready while two Corsair-class fighters flanked the shuttle at either side. The shuttle descended into the atmosphere, passing around large, elongated structures which were property of SoroSuub Corporation. From the shuttle, occupants could see the hardworking Sullustans toiling with special suits on, preparing the drills and the mechanisms on these towers to properly mine for the ore which would create those ships that generated such a wonderful profit.

Sullustan workers rushed to and fro across an expanded landing area that was shielded from the lava and the dangerous elements outside. Lava flowed down and washed over the glass covering to which the lava immediately dissipated much like water against a seaside port. From the bridge of the command center stationed at the mouth of a large opening for starcraft entry, the commanding officer watched from his command chair, looking out from the viewport. Chatter filled the air; like ill-fated rumors embedding into the infrastructure, the regular gibberish moved across the room. The time drew close for the expected party to arrive for the annual Sullustan Council meeting, but evidently the lack of attention lately drew some inward criticism from the Sullustans. Rumbling could be heard inside the center, and the commanding officer spoke up without hesitation: “Increase the inertial dampeners on a modulating frequency! This climate shift should not be causing us these problems,” He looked over his data plate before staring in the direction of the navigational array station, “Navigation, give me a status report.”

The commanding officer watched his data relay once more before he started to see some fluctuations from grid level 4-2B-A. “Open up the bay doors.” He pulled his black, glossy eyes from the screen and wiped his outer jowls with one long swipe from his right hand, as he waited for a reply. “I will inform the Vice President of the Sullustan Council at once. Send a response and communicate with the Eranthum,” The commanding officer commented before moving from his seat and walking past the long, narrow corridor of Sullustans assessing logistics and keeping order with center operations. The door opened and shut behind him as the officer made his way to announce the arrival of their guest.

The shuttle descended into the large bay doors, which were shut with an air seal to prevent any embers from damaging the door hinges and adding the dangerous climate into the livable areas underneath the planet surface. Slowly the luxury shuttle descended spreading its wings out and pulling them into their wing recesses on the ship’s sides. Down below, Sullustan guards and soldiers waited in formation. The shuttle opened their landing struts and coasted to a landing. Steam wafted from the landing struts and smoke filled the area beneath the shuttle from the hydraulic process. Iera Hritam, High Councilor of the Senate and Vice President of the Sullustan Council, rushed with several aides and advisors in his wake to the shuttle. The landing ramp opened up and smoke filled the cabin.

Appearing before them was a very short, somewhat portly—not pudgy or exceedingly rotund, Sullustan with large, dominant almond-shaped onyx eyes. He had thin leather gloves on his hands with a nice ocular cane in one hand that had a polished crystal knob with the emblem of the SoroSuub Corporation embedded. His head appeared balanced with his small tuft of white and blue hair on his chin mirroring the elaborate miter on his head that was not long and obfuscating, but the headdress served no real purpose and appeared only pompous and pretentious. His eyes narrowed carefully, robes fell smoothly to the floor and swaddled around him—he was in complete dark green with a bright vestige of yellow-green for bright contrast. He stopped at the foot of the landing ramp to make his presence known. The High Councilor finally arrived with settling rhetoric and tone, “It is always a pleasure to have you visit us, Mr. President. If you will walk this way sir, the council members are ready for your arrival and prepared for ou—” He was interrupted by the slightly shorter Sullustan, who possessed infinitely more power than him.

“I have heard enough from you. Try not saying anything at all. You do realize that you are in that seat for face and public recognition only…” Quiet settled around them, “I am Sei Maru—Vice President—I do not take orders from anyone.” Maru’s eyes laid their heavy pressure on the unassuming councilor.

The councilor’s mouth dropped and his jowls started to shake, “I am so very sorry for overste—”

“There you go again—hold thy tongue behind thy teeth and lead me to the meeting,” Maru admonished without reservation. Maru had to keep serious tabs on Hritam because publicly he allowed Maru to do what he wanted because Hritam truly thought Maru cared for the development of Sullust when really he desired more power in the galaxy—Maru thought Hritam was equally incompetent, so that matching was rather convenient.

A smile crept across his face and a congenial expression washed over him immediately. He had to appear benevolent in front of the public. Lately, the media has had a field day with certain obstacles for which SoroSuub Corporation had to answer. Unhappily, Sei Maru made several press conferences to put aside any concerns or problems with the administrative control that SoroSuub Corporation appeared to have in light of animosity surrounding the region. His support from the corporation was at an all-time high; an overwhelming unanimous consent have considered his planning, administrative acumen, and control of investments have placed SoroSuub Corp as the next most dynamic industry in the galaxy.

Since Maru developed his new program and took to the ear of the former sitting Chairman, SoroSuub Corporation had become the third most powerful shipbuilding conglomerate in the galaxy after Santhe/Sienar Technologies and Kuat Drive Yards. There was new blood ready to boil, and he realized that securing a positive connection with the Empire will only ensure his corporation’s survival and continued success. He hoped for a major profit, but he decided against wishful thinking, for now. The Imperial forces would be able to have fighters or a multitude of fronts with a variety of ideas if they chose SoroSuub to produce ships. Maru had already met with his director of research and development as he expected to implement these changes in their commodities and products if the Empire became so bold.

Maru wanted more viable starcraft that would send a message to the galaxy that Sullust was prepared to begin making serious craft with outstanding technology. He also wanted the research and development to start looking at an alternate design for fighters to help increase authority and identify with the Free Trade Directorate. Given the time he had to start putting this directorate into power, he wanted to make sure that all was going under strict adherence to his protocol. Everything had a time and place and slowly moving into these changes would prove useful in the near future.

Ahead of Maru was the long train of the High Councilor. He could tell from his diffident posture that the Sullustan Council’s Vice President had intensely regretted every speaking out of turn, for which he was unsure that he spoke out of turn. The councilor’s bright yellow and blue robes flashed in Maru’s face. Maru sneered before resurrecting his smile. He saw ahead of him, at the opening into the foyer, the media frenzy: Maru had to whittle his way through this short question and answer session before speaking with the council members. Grudgingly, it seemed the HoloNet News wanted to depict him as an ineffective leader with no social or political bearing because he was strictly a businessman. Well, Maru wanted to retort that their inclinations were sorrowfully uninspired and lacked depth.



The glass doors opened and gave way to a large foyer with a lava crystal shining in deep orange-red with intricate details trickling down from the ceiling down the sides of the cream walls. Between the walls were slots of windows peering out to the lava-baked and overflowing volcano. There were several senators and Sullustan representatives standing around during recess of their meetings, and a previous legislation had gone into effect between two councilorships. Stepping pass the glass threshold, it was evident that there was going to be a long and arduous question and answer session much to the displeasure of the Maru, who held his true disgust with every step he took. Solid strides marked his entrance as news reporters and cameras flanked in front of him and covered his tracks. Maru stared only for a moment at the cameras before looking at Hritam, who turned and nodded solemnly at his superior.

One reporter shouted loud enough to gain Maru’s ear, “President Maru… President Maru… Why have you been so distant?”

Maru tightened his grip on his cane as he stepped with the council over to the small platform, so that he could take questions. They took to the step with several of Maru’s advisors and Hritam’s men behind both of them. Maru spoke overbearingly, “Take my hand and smile as we quickly acknowledge the crowd.” The portly Sullustan immediately drew his smile and waved to the crowd with Hritam’s hand interlocked. He raised their hands to show a commitment between the corporation and the council to improve relations within the system. After a few minutes, Maru grew sick of the display and relinquished his hand politely from the councilor. Regrettably, but necessary, Maru stepped over to the podium with the Sullustan Council emblem emboldened on the surface.

Another individual, a young male twi’lek captured the attention of Maru, “Mr. President… Mr. President… The HoloNet News…” Maru stared at the twi’lek and listened to his question. “The courts cited that the corporation had violated two of the statutes, how do you feel about the recent ruling by one of the regional courts in response to SoroSuub Corporation’s concerted strategy to reorganize their investment portfolio?”

Sometimes it did not pay to get up in the morning, and because of the ill-fated legal dispute that the corporation had to undergo only made any standing pleasantry only a non-existent reminder, Maru had to come up with an artful response to counter any confusion or disappointment in the public eye. Recently, the SoroSuub Corporation had a struggle with the already established Corporate Sector about diverging foreign policies. The Corporate Sector had established precedence on the systems and sectors on the route through which many of the ships and transports used on a daily basis. Apparently, the sector was making profit on the route as opposed to using tariffs at the specific systems. The indemnities had increased and the SoroSuub Corporation saw these changes as unnecessary.

SoroSuub Corporation refused to pay the indemnity and taxation because for the process of sending their goods through space, they did not see the purpose behind validating their implied authority over the route when in actuality the route was not in jurisdiction of the Corporate Sector. So, Maru responded, unequivocally, with a small attack force to show that the company would not pay such tariffs for the distinct pleasure of increasing the profit of an intergalactic mega-corporate entity. Well, the Empire quickly stepped in to handle the situation and prepared both parties for a trial. Every single media and press outlet descended upon the incident and a huge story out of grandiose conjectures and grandiloquent titles, which did nothing for the soul but further drive hate in the eyes of the unassuming public with Maru and SoroSuub Corporation.

Maru did use force to show he was not allowing anyone to push around SoroSuub Corporation, but he did not even use one of his ships nor did he emit damage or problems. By the amendments to the charter, he violated, in his view on statute where he presented a force with the intent to harm or destroy, but the intent was not well-founded, and the court saw the logic, but in a different way. The court of five judges ruled almost tied before the superior judge made his decision. When Superior Judge Atole Yetrim asserted the opinion of the regional court and their decision, Maru realized he would not gain any political clout and only suffered considerable loss. After a long-standing battle, which waged for roughly several weeks, profits plummeted in both areas. The Sullustans were being paid for work they did not perform because by act of violation, both the Corporate Sector and the SoroSuub Corporation and the planet of Sullust had to cease operations until further notice because their threat in that area of space as well as evidence for which the counsels for both parties had to use for investigations required no outside interference.

The situation grew frustrating for Maru because he lost roughly two hundred million credits a day for his company, further sinking the company’s stock value to ultimately low margins. The Corporate Sector had even more problems because they had to shut down their sector, most of which was one big operation. They almost lost their complete stockholding portfolio, but because they had quickly outsourced their margins to other less connected holdings while finding alternative means to profit their workers, they survived relatively unscathed in that respect. The judges ruled 3-2 in favor of the sector because they had a dual responsibility of ensuring safe passage and homage to all patrons and customers filtering into and out of each system. There was a biding responsibility that because of the rarity of the situation involving the Corporate Sector, all patrons had to ensure security of their assets through payment as they entered the route.

While the route was, and will always be under the jurisdiction of the intergalactic governmental entity in power, the payment received by that of the Corporate Sector would rightfully go that governmental entity. In sheathed anger, Maru knew that the trial proceedings would end up counting and placing him for full. He appeared as a money hungry and failed politico in the process. It was a major debacle that his senior public relations consultant had way of solving except for him accepting this failed attempt and not making the same mistake again. He was cited for violation of two statutes, Sec. LXI-A, TY-34.67 and Sec. XLV-K EX-51.24 making him not only pay a fine of about five and a half billion credits for profits not owed to the governmental entity, but also for attempting to stage a coup and forming a viable army in refute with the intergalactic authority. The financial blow was staggering because he lost about roughly six billion credits for delay in company profits while also having to forfeit over legal fines and charges that almost met the loss in profit.

It was a tough ordeal to swallow, but to show moral and intellectual support, Maru stayed the course and attended the proceedings, testified along with other witnesses, and agreeably paid his fines while also explaining that justice was made but through an alternate opinion for which he had to honor and respect—publicly.

Maru sighed in regret; he had a workable smile on his face. His jowls wanted to shudder, but the tendency had to dissipate: “Actually, I am glad that the situation occurred because by undergoing due process in our judicial and legal system, not only was I able to learn that we might not all understand the full extents to the law, but at the same time, other businesses and corporations might not have to suffer the same fate. I guess SoroSuub Corporation had to suffer a little, but in retrospect, we will use this opportunity to expand and grow as I know the company can. I am proud of my employees and the yield of production because they have met and surpassed modest goals for the coming year. I have no qualms with the decisions made by the Superior Judge and the Assistant Judges of the 9th Regional Court. The Corporate Sector and SoroSuub Corporation had diverging views of foreign policy and we have established a dialogue which might prove fruitful for the coming decades. So, right now, I wait with bated anticipation...”

He extinguished the question, but he knew he had to at least answer another. “Yes over there, the Rodian female.”

The female Rodian began to speak quickly and her language came through sounding differently from the intercom on the podium, “Many people have cited grave displeasure over the predicament with the corporation not having a solid, but interim leader. Especially since you appear to be the only candidate prepared to take on the position as Chairman of SoroSuub, which I might add you have been keeping that seat warm, why have you chosen to take on the reins of the Sullustan Council and prompt many Sullustans to uprising over the possibility of you, as in the corporation, destroying their liberties?”

Maru's eyes glazed over at the boldness from the response: "That question ma'am…" He fumbled, probably visible as well, caused for some concern. Flashes and lights flickered blinding Maru making his discomfort physically complicating. He had to remain composed during the duration of press conference, and this media frenzy only spelled for more frustration in the future because his ability to sway the Sullustan Council depended on keeping his demeanor.

"Now I realize that everything seems daunting, but I can effectively explain myself and reasons behind this seemingly benign takeover that the media has created against me. I am not staging a coup to destroy or decimate the galaxy. I am a businessman that has considerable influence in the sector, if not the galaxy, but my sole goals for the future are for the continued development and improvement of Sullust and its influence in foreign affairs and operational efficiency. I would be quite concerned and worried if I was large companies like Santhe/Sienar Technologies or Kuat Drive Yards because of the power that we are steadily gaining with every contact made." He paused for a short moment to reflect on his answer.

The question was fairly complicated and he needed to attack this answer specifically to denounce any concerns or draw some skepticism from harsher criticism. "As for the Chairman's seat, I do not necessarily keep his seat warm dear... I am doing my job. As a leader on the board of directors, my sole goal is to ensure that the administrative operations of SoroSuub remain at peak parameters, and to the board of directors and stockholders, I appear to be doing my job with great ferocity. Keep in mind, SoroSuub Corporation has complicated and tasking candidacy process and I only placed my name into the mix because I want to make sure that the corporation continues in its newfound commitment for betterment through this area of the galaxy. I take my job seriously. As for my election to this presidency, I want to also make it clear that I will not allow this council's goals to be swayed. Taking away people's liberties was and is not my intention. For you to make this claim so clear, I am rather embarrassed..."

He looked to his right to see the High Councilor next to him, "I am here performing my duty as leader of this world. I am making the sacrifices necessary to ensure a strong voice and political presence for the Sullustan people. That much, I can assure you. Any concessions or disagreement in the process to undermine my present goals would be an act of defiance at the proposed idealisms I plan to share with this world and its inhabitants." Just as he made his point clear to the public, the reporters began once again to barrage him with questions. He ignored their continued questions and acknowledged his vice president to depart for the council meeting.

His cane hit the marbled flooring with Hritam trailing behind. Maru slowed so that his vice president could catch up with him. "Understand something. I hate being placed under the watchful eye of reporters—especially the HoloNet News—so make sure that the situation does not happen again. Remember that you answer to me and if necessary, send me a briefing through my communications director because I cannot simply continue without having some sort of range of idea where these questions lead." Maru's miter tilted a little, to which he stopped and adjusted the headdress in his left hand, and stared intently at Hritam, "Do not make me have to make your life even more difficult. I will do as I see fit and you will support it. If you do not, then your political career will be over faster than you think. Do you understand?"

The vice president shook his head and answered with his jowls tightened slightly, "The council with my strong and unabated consent will support you. We believe you are doing what you can to ensure and assert the interests of our people."

Then Maru heard what he had expected, "Good. At least you can follow explicit instructions—thank you. I knew you would see things my way." Without hesitation, he continued forward down the corridor with the entourage of both the High Councilor's and his own advisors and consultants. He passed several more members of the Sullustan Senate and a few representatives and delegations making their claims clear while they made their way to the council board room. To the right, from the windows, jets of lava could be seen jutting from a deep orifice that had a highly active lava pit.

As they continued their walk, "Please tell me what you know right now of what people are saying. I need to know if there are some other issues I must be aware of before I enter this meeting. I will not have anymore potentially embarrassing moments, besides, I am not about to place myself in immediate discomfort. Without reservation, I will make my concerns clear. I may have not won with the ruling of the regional court, but I will definitely do what I see is fit and move in the right direction."

The High Councilor smiled and nodded in response. His brittle hands clasped together as he thought for a quick moment. "Well, there are some issues that several councilors raised during our preliminary discussion through the senatorial and representative summit. They suspect that you have another program that you want to promote for the benefit of the SoroSuub Corporation. I only told them that I was not sure to the extent what your goals were because as the vice president of the Sullustan Council, I only have provisional and ex-officio status. I do not hold any real power."

Maru started to laugh, "I am so glad you have accepted your place in the grand scheme of this political structure because many councilors assume that, as members, they have certain binding rights, but really the corporation oversees their budget and provides discretionary spending controls for the Sullustan people and the governmental infrastructure on the planet, which is why I am always so surprised to hear them comment about how evil I can be." He paused with his cane; one of his fingers tapped the crystal knob.

His eyes narrowed, "I do not like being crafted a certain way when people are not able to understand the reasons behind a faction's methods. They need to learn to get with the program if they want to ensure their continued stay in their respective offices. I will not tolerate more bitter criticism when they are not the ones who are strictly adhering to intergalactic guidelines, paying fines and tariffs for goods and commodities that we export for our own salvation to feed and secure the Sullustans.”

“Also, I do not like receiving criticism for attitudes where people see me as some power-thirsty political veteran. I AM NOT SOME Bumbling Mynock! I am a Sullustan." He took to his stride again, which led to a door opening to a turbolift. The High Councilor joined him on the lift, "You know that I have such plans for this planet, but no one will see until they give me a chance. The Sullustans will soon be dying to securing these changes..." Then he erupted in laughter as if placating a joke, much like the truth, for which Hritam laughed as well but half-heartedly. The lift opened to reveal another open area that fed into another room which would house the council and its members.

The Sullustans valued their tradition and liturgical format of their events. Everything was done according to protocol. The Chief of Protocol, from the Office of the President of the Sullustan Council, whose name escaped Maru, was there to greet them. He wore strictly black robes which were linear, not free flowing or fluid, but very mundane and focused like his tasks. The protocol officer saw them approach with the entourage behind them, "Oh it is you Mr. President. It is always good to see you and Mr. Vice President. I guess the council members are here and ready for your arrival. I will initiate the ceremony and begin the meeting."

He stepped away from them and went over to knock three times on the door before it opened. The officer marched in and bowed: "Ladies and Gentlemen, the Councilors of the Sullustan Council, may I present to you the High Councilor and Vice President of the Sullustan Council, Iera Hritam, and the Chief Administrative Officer of SoroSuub Corporation and President of the Sullustan Council, Sei Maru." Just as he had finished his announcement, he stood and turned to face the door. The large auditorium housed a stage from which the officer made his announcements, and just below at the foot of the small set of stairs which fed to the auditorium ground floor was the ceremonial seats of the council leadership, the president and vice president.

The doors opened and both Hritam and Maru walked in then stopped to bow at the councilors who were now standing. Each tier of the auditorium's level had ten councilors with a total of six tiers totaling sixty actual councilors in the Sullustan Council, excluding the president and vice president. Maru and Hritam stepped down the stairs and were seated immediately. Maru spoke clearly into his comlink setup on the podium, "Members of the Sullustan Council, by the power invested in me, I hereby call this Sullustan Council Meeting to order at the consent of the High Councilor of the Senate, Vice President Hritam. Councilors thank you for attending, you may be seated."

Maru watched as the councilors began sitting down, he paused, then motioned for the Clerk of the Sullustan Council, "I would be most obliged if the councilors please begin roll call for our wonderful Clerk of the Sullustan Council." Then councilors began rattling off their name and area of representation for the Council, but during the process, Maru turned his head in Hritam's direction, "I sometimes loathe these systematic ceremonial procedures and protocols for these meetings. I also do not like addressing the council with opening statements before we undergo business, but I have no choice in the matter."

Hritam stared at him unhappy at his admission, but he had to remain tight-lipped for his own personal political clout. If he lost his position of power in the council and the senate, then there would be no way he could represent the system or the sector in foreign affairs and intergalactic relations. With forgiveness in his eyes, the high councilor did not want to hear about the president's apparent lack of duty for this specific office. Maru filled his affliction with kindness, establishing what little ounce of credibility he could muster given the situation. He appeared ready to provide a statement to the councilors. The final councilor finished the roll call and the clerk stood to make his announcement: “Vice President Hritam and President Maru, we now have quorum with sixty councilors out of a total of sixty councilors in attendance for this meeting. May the power invested by the people in this council continue to secure and ensure the well-being of Sullust.”

Nodding in acknowledgement, Maru began with his opening statement. He prepared the statement at the central headquarters of SoroSuub Corporation which was now stationed on the satellite Sulon. Not too long ago, the movement of the company’s operations became a crucial measure to ensure that all pertinent and secret data stayed classified within the company. Also, Maru wanted to ensure that his plan to restructure the corporation, as in initiating the operations of the Free Trade Directorate, since the entity strayed from the original purposes of company, would not become public news. Deep in the corporation there are areas classified and designated only for select individuals.

The two tiers of power were evident, but the Imperial authorities were only aware of one chain of command and organizational structure. He wanted the moon to become a less visible fixture for control, at least until he can capitalize on the Free Trade Directorate’s new home. He placed his cane in a holder for which he had requested when he first took the office. He turned in his cushioned seat to behind him to acknowledge the Chief Protocol Officer to close and seal the doors to the council room as the meeting would go into executive session with no one being able to enter the room until the meeting adjourned. The doors were closed and sealed: the sealing sound signaled that he could begin his opening statement.

“Members of the Sullustan Council, I come before you at my usual tidings and thank you once more for the distinct pleasure of chairing and presiding over the causal debates that help form policy and shape the future for our fellow Sullustan brethren. I want to express my congratulations to High Councilor Iera Hritam for his successive term as presiding officer of the Senate and Vice President to the Sullustan Council once more. Mr. Vice President, your work and continuing commitment to Sullust and its people will and must not go unnoticed.”

“I am truly in remiss and honored to have worked and to continue working with you in the coming months. Your political and legal acumen are most impressive, and I think I speak for everyone here in this room when I state that you are indeed a gem to our wonderful governmental structure.” As he finished his words, the room went in standing ovation and thunderous applause. Maru did not stand, and Hritam was wise enough not the stand as well to cause even more political dissonance with his co-chair who sat next to him. “Yes… Yes… Thank you so much Mr. Vice President for your work…” Maru spoke as he used his remarks to subside the applause and small throws of chatter.

“Now for my report to you councilors, I want you all to know that the Office of the President of the Sullustan Council has worked tirelessly to consider some of the issues that have plagued, yes, plagued this office. I realize many of you have heard some harsh criticisms and are dismayed at my actions in reference to foreign policy with the Corporate Sector. I want to make the situation as equally clear as I can in this statement, which I will make readily available to the media. The decision to not pay tariffs and the decision to undergo such voracious foreign policy was my decision, no one else was involved. As the provisional administrator of the SoroSuub Corporation, I have the invested control and interest of the Sullustan people and the products created in our wonderful industry.”

“With the tariff, which were not specified because the orders sent to the Corporate Sector were different than the past, they asserted that the corporation had to pay, yes, had to pay more money in indemnity fees than usual. Imagine councilors if the corporation continued to willingly pay that settlement for the Corporate Sector for each convoy or transport that delivered products and commodities to that area of space? We would lose a considerable amount of profit. I am also a businessman, and I think you all understand that from a business perspective, this situation can have damaging effects not on just production, but also with stockholders and within the board of directors. I made a valid decision with my advisors, and I stick by that decision.”

“I went through the process of claiming wrongful legal sanctions on the part of the Corporate Sector and received no response. I waited patiently, then after some time I developed a makeshift force to establish and assert that for the invested interest of the Sullustan people and the SoroSuub Corporation, we refuse to be treated common. We are Sullustans—WE ARE NOT COMMON!” With those words, councilors rose to their feet and shouted in acceptance. He hit the right nerve, struck the right chord.

He nodded sagely at the councilors and continued with his statement, “I take your response councilors as an invested respect for me in the position that I hold. Remember that we have lost in the legal battle over legitimacy, but realize two things that have, as I have mentioned earlier, plagued our home: because of the violations of statutes, the corporation lost money and profits which would energize our economy for almost a month. We lost at least six billion in credits from legal fees and paying back those indemnities as well as fines for violating two statutes in the eyes of the Imperial courts.”

“These courts, as I understand only wanted to ensure that justice and order were maintained. I was accessory to that order, and I take full responsibility for the debacle. But rest assured that Sullust is a planet of prestige and dignity and we will not be treated poorly because we are smaller and appear less defensive because the Sullustan spirit is strong and will continue to remain strong.” Again, there was more thunderous applause, and in fact, the clerk of the council stood at those words and nodded in acceptance of what he had to say.

“We are in a new situation, and an opportunity to bring forth new light to our planet. We have lost much in the past few months, but we can only gain from this vantage point. Let me take this council under my wing, and let me show this government how useful this corporation can be with the reorganization. I have a proposal to make to the council, if I may…” Maru stood from his seat, he pulled from the small compartment a portable comlink headset, and began to walk around the table, looking at the councilors who were seated now ready to listen and hang onto his every word. He grabbed at his robes, around his thighs, and slowly descended a small set of stairs. He took on a serious tone with a reverent austere, “How did you feel when the Republic turned away from us at our time of need during the Clone War? How did you feel when the Separatists took advantage of our resources—how did you feel looking at such problems occur in our history…”

It was stale with quiet, no one moved, stood, or spoke. “How did it feel when you saw how the Empire at least allowed us to reorganize and develop our culture—how did it feel when the Republic or Galactic Alliance—whatever the hell you want to call them started to take advantage and place so many frustrating limits on us, were we not their allies? How does it FEEL to be treated like people of a second-class rank around the galaxy? Should we fully blame the Empire for corruption that was there prior to their long-standing existence? The Republic made it so difficult, but the Republic was ALL we knew. Then a reiteration of the Republic appears and what does it do for the Sullustans? They treat us common,” There were gasps at the wording of common once again. The Sullustans have learned at grave cost what it means to appear and be common.

“We are NOT COMMON. We are Sullustans with integrity and composure. We are not COMMON, we build masterful ships and provide loads of profit everyday for our people. We are not COMMON, we toil and make up the backbone of the galaxy, but who cares? I want to decree to you that there is another way to handle our situation. We need to make sure that our interests, what defines us as a culture, what enables us to remain stable should be our consideration. We are Sullustans. We are the emphasis and the ever-increasing potential of the galaxy. I am proud of our culture. We should be given more opportunities, which is why I want to bestow an idea that will work more in our favor than anything.”

“We have business today, but I would like to propose a new structure, a new, much stronger organization to saddle our interests and push further the goals of worlds like ours especially those planets not receiving representation in the Outer Rim, I suggest that we construct a directorate with the main focus of ensuring that trade and commercial development will rest in the wills of its planetary representation. Let’s not stop and become one of the many who have no voice in this galaxy, let’s combine. I wish to propose today to the Sullustan Council a new concept that will further enrich us: The Free Trade Directorate, under Sullustan control, will spark a new era for not just Sullust but those other individuals who have lost favor because they were treated as common. We can provide cultures with a form of equity that will satiate the masses.”

“Let’s consider our planetary, industrial, economic, and political future by investing our representation and political power under combined interests. I stand before you as the President of the Sullustan Council, asking, if not imploring your consent to the stratification of our needs. Think about the sake of our children’s future. We owe them lasting political and economic weight to help generate those jobs and wages to help feed Sullustans. I know it is true. If we do not do something about these issues and fix these problems for ourselves, the problems of the past like with the Corporate Sector will happen again and we will suffer worse than we had before. Let’s not make this mistake again because we should not be shoved around as an entity for respect and equal representation. We have to take a stand at some point, let it be now. Let this change come now!” The councilors stood in unanimous consent, thunderous applause, even the High Councilor smiled and clapped furiously at the words.

Maru had taken the stage and effectively established his goal of controlling the planet under an entity that would be under his strict control. He saw this moment in his dreams, he saw the faces with the expression of joy and elation, and he saw the happiness and comfort. The long wait would soon be over, and he would gain that support that he wanted so desperately. His ears washed out the applause and chatter. He walked sagely back to his seat, placing the headset in the compartment of the table. Before he had a chance to close the compartment, a councilor already had something to say. The clerk recognized the councilor, “Yes, the chair recognizes Councilor Tolik.” Maru sifted his eyes over to the thin, tall, wiry Sullustan, probably about five or six inches taller than him, known as one of the tallest councilors in the council.

Tolik covered over his hands and made a brief statement: “I would like to take the opportunity to set into motion, or debate, the implementation of Sullust becoming the initiate and controlling entity for this Free Trade Directorate.” The moment the words leapt from his lips so did the talking of councilors over what was just said. Then another councilor blurted out quickly, “Second that motion.” The clerk reiterated for the record that the motion was made and placed into second—Maru’s plan was now steadily moving in the right direction. He knew that with such a quick move of debate to enact of the Free Trade Directorate as the governing and superficial body representing Sullust, there would be nothing stopping Maru gaining more power outside of that area of space. Life had turned around, at least for right now.

Noise took over the ambience of the Sullustan Council meeting. Councilors began their usual method of caucusing with each other, trying to vie for specific regional interests. Maru and Hritam made use of their time at their ornate thrones, considering what was happening before them. The session of the council had gone into a vote, for which members of the council had enough time to consider the proposal that Maru had just presented to them in a rousing speech. A rousing indication of what would be the necessary motive and process for Sullust’s future. He watched closely with his obsidian shaded eyes while the councilors were talking about some of the issues that ran the course of developing such changes on their planet. The debate had lasted a long time, for nearly two hours, ranging from such concerns as whether the planet and corporation had the necessary funds, to which Maru responded that if the corporation could handle losing 12 billion credits in profits, then it was not too outside the ordinary to assume that financing a military or such an elaborate faction was out of reach.

Painstakingly, he took their questions with strong affirmative answers, sending them the message that the whole situation and conclusion had been well-thought out for quite some time. Maru posed to the council members that this idea was tossed around for at least several years, but there was no actual need to implement or present such strategies to the council. The clerk of the council allowed the councilors to discuss and caucus for the remainder of their time because during the meeting they allowed several motions for extension of discussion, which led to more pointless questions because evidently the councilors still need more clarification on top of the prior clarifications that had to address as well. Maru grew tired of their persistent trappings and for what he saw as failed attempts at discrediting his attempt. However, he had no choice but to sit through these debates because on the one hand, these members had to call to question and move into a vote. He hoped someone had the gall to move this legislative body into a voting session.

Like reading Maru’s mind, a councilor stood in the wake of heated argument, “I move to a call of question…” He smashed his hand down on the table in front of him to declare that this debate only would go longer and further had they not stopped discussion. Some of the councilors had already expressed their dissatisfaction with the long proceeding because after some time the debate grew languid and undesirable. Another councilor in succession seconded the motion. Then with that notion, the clerk happily announced that there would be a vote for actually voting because as a provision by the council, a call to question would not constitute a direct move into a vote by councilors. The clerk announced the full details of the procedure, by tradition, when all the councilors knew well the procedures of the body. Once he finalized his statement, he turned to see Maru.

“Now will all councilors in favor of this call to question please vote in your monitors now,” Maru spoke with a distilling chill in his voice, he tried willingly to take off much of the edge in his voice.

The councilors began to settle and pressed one of the three options provided: yea, nay, or abstain. Following several minutes of quiet, silence showered the room, every person waited for the results to finally come through on the screen of the clerk of the council before the results appeared before the president and vice president. The results came through with 45:15:0 waging that there would an entrance into a voting session.

Maru broke the silence to verbalized the next course of parliamentary procedure, “Members of the council, we have reached a super majority of two-thirds and we will push forward now into a voting session on the proposal of initiating the Free Trade Directorate into the Sullustan Council under the reorganization of the SoroSuub Corporation. We will now go into a voting session voting, as usual, yea, nay, or abstain.”

He so despised this job, working effortlessly under a constant deliberation and having certain processes outweigh others. The councilors began talking once more before they went back into their session and considered their decision. One by one, on opposite sides of the room, votes were cast and the clerk of court watched as the numbers filtered in and appeared on his system. The clerk held his expression, as part of his solemn duty to remain non-partial in the rulings, and when the final vote was cast, he sent the results to the chairing duo behind him. The votes appeared on the screen: it was truly a remarkable sight that with an alarming yet overwhelming margin of consent would appear.

With a strong result of 60:0:0, it seemed that Maru’s words were the liquor of hope on their breath. The councilors craved for strong, aggressive representation, they craved the control necessary to further the potential of their people, even the people craved the respect and attention they rightful deserved, and now with amicable success, with lithe consent, the Sullustan Council granted, unofficially, Sei Maru with unlimited power of the sector. No one could have foreseen such change occur in the process of two hours. It seemed so fast, but so reassuring at the same time, like a surreal experience from chewing narcotics in the privacy of one’s home. This commitment by these legislative members was the elixir he needed to reenergize his fervor. Soon, the changes would be made.

The President of the Sullustan Council stood to greet their proposal with unwavering acceptance, “We have done our planet, our system, and our sector a grand service: Sullust, our brethren, and our council will not go disfavored or neglected. The institution of this Free Trade Directorate will only boost our will and proposed goals for the coming future and I will surely convince and begin pulling forth the support we need to lobby for our successes. With unanimous consent, I thank you Sullustan Councilors for your continued support and breadth of attention.”

“With the power and control of this planet and the council under the invested control of SoroSuub Corporation, I will hereby disengage any further debate and discussion over logistical provisions. All details will be handled with the Office of Advancement and also with the Office of Research and Development.” His voice growing more delicate and understanding made his true intentions clear, “Let it be known that right now as provisional administrator of SoroSuub Corporation, the authority of the Sullustan Council is no more. I am hereby disbanding any further political authority. All issues and conflicts with these decisions can be taken up with the Senate where your concerns should be addressed and through the proper channels will soon be heard by the SoroSuub Corporation.”

A councilor stood in shock at the allegations and frustrated with the immediacy of the control blurted—interrupting the chairing president, “What are you doing?! Disbanding the council? How dare you! Why dismantle the framework of Sullustan pride?!”

Maru looked at him with such sympathy but his words dripped a severe lack of empathy, “Why my fair councilor… You dismantled it with your own vote; I merely do as what is necessary to ensure the development of Sullust. Let me also explain that this council works at the whim of the SoroSuub Corporation. We have far more money and interests in this planet than the government. We pay the salaries of all you councilors as well as the Sullustans, we pay for all planetary infrastructures, and all social programs…”

“We have our own military forces not to mention Office of Foreign Affairs to assert foreign policy. The corporation could have in all likelihood have taken over your planet without a hitch, but because we abide the rules and statutes as we have always—we only work at the will of the council’s decisions. Your decision today will have been the best decision that this planet has made in a long time, and I intend to capitalize and provide proof of its success, but by dismantling the council we further guarantee success on all fronts. The SoroSuub Corporation will be the face of Sullust, which will be the backbone of the Free Trade Directorate, I am sure.”

Some of the councilors looked amongst themselves angry at what has happened, but many were still confused. His words were discomforting but soothing in the same respect. No one knew how to take such changes without requesting so sort of comfort or complacent direction. Maru’s direction was grafted in his head, but no one really knew where this would go. “I am not taking anymore questions. I thank you all for your service and commitment to the Sullustans. Right now I have a meeting to prepare and attend, which is of great importance.”

He stood again with his portly façade shifting. Maru grabbed his cane and repositioned his tilting miter while he made a direct beeline for the sealed doors. He signaled to his chief protocol officer to open the doors. Quickly, he opened the doors to see more press gathered outside of the meeting in the hall wanting to catch a glimpse at Maru and hear about some of the developments of the program some had heard, as a rumor, that he would propose. He signaled his protocol officer to stop the media frenzy. Cameras began flashing from every direction causing blindness everywhere, but the black eyes remained fixed on the hands in the air.

“I will make this brief statement to the media and press right now. I will be providing my opening statement, which was the emphasis of this whole meeting with the councilors later. A provision was passed about eleven minutes ago detailing a change in organizational structure and political affiliation for the Sullustan Council and the sector. From this moment forward, the SoroSuub Corporation has direct and complete authority of the planet of Sullust once and for all to make certain that all issues and concerns of the galaxy in reference to our Sullustans will be taken seriously,” Just as he finished his brief statement, hands went into the air for questions, but Maru continued on his statement because he had stayed long enough, in his eyes, on the planet.

“On that note as well, the SoroSuub Corporation will be the first major entity to combine under a new intergalactic organization to compile other entities in the Outer Rim. This entity will be the newest, most functional political organization the galaxy has seen as of late. Today is a new day for the Sullustan people because the council has agreed for reorganization of the planet under the Free Trade Directorate with the SoroSuub Corporation as its primary benefactor. This directorate will be controlled by the upcoming Chairman of the SoroSuub Corporation and will be looking to recruit other members for political and economic authority in the galaxy. The time for lack of proper representation is over. The Sullustans have been heard!”

He shoved his way through the crowed. Maru extended his cane moving the lot around, preventing people from asking him more questions about the vote and all other details that either his communications director or the chief protocol officer could provide at a later time. His headdress slipped several times because a couple of cameras and hands of reporters moved it from its current location. His shuttle was waiting for him because once he made his arrival back on the moon; there would be an immediate vote, as garnered by corporation procedure. He had to make sure that he received the official seat as Chairman and CEO of SoroSuub Corporation to establish his print as the sole authority.

His eyes narrowed at the reality that whirled around him. The cameras, the people sifting to keep up with him, mostly his entourage of advisors and dignitaries that always wanted to be in his company and the guards making sure he was safe at all times. Whether people disagreed with the method and authority that he was given, there were no provisions for removing Maru from office. In order for him to lose face or power, he would have to be voted down by the board of directors, as seeing as everyone on the corporation’s directorate has information or sensitive public knowledge that would ruin them—Maru felt his seat would always be warm as long as he kept it.

Sei Maru’s mind began to race at the endless possibilities for him because soon he would take on his role as Chairman and the power would then emanate from his throne of everlasting power. How wonderful, he thought. The lava continued to crash against the walls and leave settling marks on the windows before slipping back into the vast of molten liquid. Maru closed his eyes thinking hard to himself about how rich that lava appeared, before stepping up the ramp and entering his shuttle. Everything from the floor, to the molten lava, to the gloves on his hands wreaked and appeared rich and full.

A MAJOR BREACH IN SECURITY AT SOROSUUB CORPORATION

The shuttle Eranthum swept through the agriculturally-rich terrain of Sulon. Just as the shuttle cleared that area of space, Eranthum veered left into the atmosphere and came atop a mountain range underneath. From the viewport and the slightly-jutted, rounded cockpit, passengers could see the rushing clan of Ramplish moving in a large pack from the top of the mountains. Many Sullustan historians theorized over the years that the ramplish that left the planet long ago to seek haven on Ord Mantell moved back to the same area of space, but the government would not welcome them back on the planet.

Seeing as the development of the planet underneath the dangerous, toxic atmosphere was already designed and prepared for Sullustan living, the ramplish took Sulon as the next plausible transition and stayed in the mountain range. Most of the years, the ramplish gain some confidence and would try pushing and attacking SoroSuub Corporation’s headquarters or operations on the planet, however, being that the corporation had infinitely more resources, the ramplish retreated back to the mountains staying far from other civilizations. Maru hated them all and would off-handedly comment that they should have been destroyed long ago.

Closing in on the corporation headquarters, it was a large massive industrial complex. At a large distance, this facility appeared to rival Coruscant with concrete and artificiality surrounded by so much greenery and agriculture. The corporation had to make a personal agreement not to let the structure of the complex, and the upward building of the company, to affect the surrounding areas. In craft fashion, the corporation grew their facilities lower and higher, stretching to the heights of the moon and deep within the planet. Maru created the corporation building to facilitate all the important and serious areas inside the moon.

His office and departmental office are located at the lowest levels of the facility some twenty or so stories below the surface. The boards of directors hold their meetings in the lowest area of the corporation. The planet has an interesting structure where toward the lower levels of the outer shell of the moon were caverns and larges holes in the planet. Many of the early contractors assumed that the planet had filled these areas with molten lava or liquid metal, but after some time when the planet grew vegetation, the area became empty leaving an empty shell, but the shell possesses the most elaborate and indestructible geodic appearance, shimmering a velvety-purple iridescent view from the windowed boardroom where the proceedings occurred.

Upon making its landing, Maru’s most trusted advisor, Gvrin Nplr, greeted him on the causeway leading to the hangar entrance to the large facility. Nplr was an interesting and useful individual in Maru’s cadre of powerful advisors and respected entourage. He had a place in Maru’s eyes when it came to handling any business or political strategy, unlike most of the advisors and influential people that come across Maru, the powerful Sullustan kept Nplr near by for suggestions. Nplr provided a wide variety of services to Sei Maru, since Maru basically took over SoroSuub Corporation. He was the chief of staff to Maru for many years.

The ambitious Sullustan was told that he would move up to a combined authority in the board of directors when Maru took over as Chairman. Since Maru took over as provisional administrator, Nplr’s duties and responsibilities increased tremendously. He took over all diplomatic and foreign policy initiatives, he took over all financial aspects and prepared budget reports, and even ensured that all organizational command structures maintained their proficiency. Maru had promised him to be the chief operations officer and communications director for both SoroSuub Corporation and the newly-established Free Trade Directorate in the event his promotion was imminent, and it seemed to be appearing relatively soon.

Nplr was flanked respectively by members of his own support staff, and several members of corporate governance. He wore sleek, solid shade of tourmaline with a pale cream lining, and a small black miter, with a small green gem in the middle, that fit around his head somewhat like a round bowl. His hands and fingers were more slender and eloquent than Maru’s brash, short hands. Like Maru, Nplr enjoyed the comforts of tight gloves cuffing his hands from the outer elements. His somewhat erect height about the same as Councilor Tolik from the council always prompted discomfort with Maru: size and height was always a distraction and problem for someone appearing so diminutive.

“I see you are back, Maru. I hope your travels and proceedings on Sullust were satisfactory,” Nplr stopped and bowed reverently before attaching to Maru’s side as they entered the entrance. Large white, with blue intricately-etched columns donned the large open receiving room.

“Actually, we are in good spirits today my new Executive Secretary of the Free Trade Directorate… It seems that the Sullustans desire the implementation of the Free Trade Directorate effective immediately. We must enact the quorum call and have an emergency vote with the board of directors. They have had more than enough time to develop and push for strong, successive candidates. The Sullustans have spoken and we must act fast.”

Nplr bowed his head again, his own glossy black eyes facing the floor, thinking about the shaping of this situation. Everything started to make more sense. The silence began to shroud him and felt the urge to make a comment. “You realize that there have been some developments we need to discuss sir. I do not think you will be happy to hear about these problems before we go into the meeting. I would have contacted you on the shuttle, but I felt it was crucial to speak with you in person, and personally about the issues we are encountering.”

Maru abruptly paused; he could hear Nplr’s breath being shallow. His counterpart’s own headdress, much shortly and less stately, moved at the involuntary cadence of his breathing. He sized him up quickly and responded aggressively, “What is it that is so serious? What are you trying to tell me?”

Nplr turned to the advisors stopping in their wake, and caught their attention with his gloved hands: “Leave us at once. We require privacy for our discussion.” Some of the advisors began to break in their fleeting group-like formation, breaking off toward the exits of the large receiving room, but some had stayed, assuming they were not referred to in the very bold indication. Nplr asserted his weight, “Did I give you a decision—I said LEAVE US! You all here are not that important, and to my knowledge have no real idea what even goes on in this corporation, so move on and flock to someone else.” The room broke up again, leaving the two Sullustans to speak about some of the developments that were steadily occurring. Both of them needed their private time to assess the different changes and issues that continued to shape or cause difficulty for their plans.

“Now that we have time to ourselves,” Nplr searched his robes for the pocket which had something important inside. His nimble fingers pulled a thin holodisc from his pocket, “Understand sir that this information is still being processed by the Department of Research and Development. The director has already expressed to me that these situations will only become more encroaching and frustrating.” Maru still appeared unfazed but seriously cautious about what was really the problem. The holodisc glowed and an image appeared in a holographic projection. The image provided a face; it was a Houk with the most putrid scars on his face. He had one slash traversing his left temple, cutting through his eyelid and eye, passing to his upper cheek and ending at the bridge of his nose. The face unsettled the soon-to-be Chairman, he covered his face, hoping his eyes were betraying the image before him.

“What’s the meaning of this face that I see?” Maru shouted, shielding his sight from the image for a moment, before he mustered enough courage to look directly at the image.

The outburst surprised Nplr who swallowed his throat and proceeded to explain the situation to his superior. “That Houk sir is really the problem because he had infiltrated the corporation while you were gone and tried to leave with very sensitive information. You would not believe what kind of trouble he almost caused sending our security forces into the situation. He suffered none when he was killed. As much as we wanted him alive, we lost several employees in the process and the security deemed him a threat to your security and to ours. We could not allow for the situation to escape out of few members.”

“All of the security officers who were signaled of the disturbance had their minds erased and no memory engrams in their minds hold any recollection of the event. We wanted to be sure that none of the operations and details of this facility reach public consumption or the Imperials will surely do an extensive and unpleasant review of our operation. Seeing that you have now secured our foundation with the Free Trade Directorate, I do not see that becoming a problem, but I wanted to make sure for the sake of our strategy that other Houks or other accomplices make another attempt at tapping our systems.”

“Our Chief Information Officer and Chief Data Officer have been working together to structure a secure pathway, making sure that any access to information would reroute through internal security and the office of the chairman, namely yours. We will make sure that all information pulled from our system at our direct knowledge, we cannot afford such mistakes again. I doubt with the bad press we have been receiving that we can afford such problems,” Nplr ended shutting off the holodisc and hiding it beneath his cloaks.

Maru began to see the reality of sensitive information and quipped about the sake for a turn around in bad news, “Actually there is some truth to your statement. I think my words today left a strong enough reminder to the Sullustans that SoroSuub Corporation will do what is necessary. Our public perception will be changing, slowly though, over the next couple of days. I am equally pleased that you handled the situation without letting the situation stretch further because it would certainly make trying to develop on this harder. Evidently placing this corporation on Sulon was not a wise idea because we are still a target of identity and sensitive information breaching. I want to make sure that the highest priority is maintaining internal security on this facility.”

“Let’s first make sure that we put together the meeting with the board of directors. I do not want to hesitate to have them place me as the Chairman. I have been more than patient. After being their provisional administrator without the official title for the past twenty months has been a pleasure, but not fulfilling enough because some of our cohorts do not realize that wield that sort of power,” Maru took to his stride once more, his robes sliding effortless on the floor.

Nplr followed him to the turbolift and pulled from his hidden pocket a comlink: “Sergeant-at-Arms, initiate a quorum call, immediately for a meeting of the board of directors in precisely one hour, dilatation will be unacceptable…”

THE MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Deep in the bowels of the corporation, below the fault line, below the crust line, below the inner meat of the moon, resided the lowest level of the business—the boardroom facility. The area took a large part and was heavily secured. Upon taking the lone turbolift shaft down, there were armed guards on either side of the lift entrance, with a modest receiving area having several other guards stationed at reasonable intervals, all donning blaster rifles. The boardroom entrance was almost completely glass with metal etchings through to maintain stability. Maru was careful to reinforce all glass on this floor with strong, transparent alloy to allow for durability and protection. The ventilation system for the floor is controlled by Maru and only he has access. In fact, there is system specifically created to monitor the area, so that no one could introduce airborne agents or neural disruptors through the vents.

Surrounding the actual boardroom table was glassed viewports. Across the rectangular-shaped room, shaped like a freighter container, members of the board had a clear view of the geodic marvel down below them. The boardroom was suspended at the top central area of this large empty, hollow area in the planet that created the most spectacular geode. Deep shades of amethyst and emerald shone from below, almost adding more serene light, altering the burdensome appearance of the room. Inside the walls, the boardroom was stale and monotonous, full of profits and investments—nothing living but something always being processed. With so much going on in the past several days in Sullustan Space, it was time for the meeting to be underway. Maru sat at the head of the table with members of the board flanking down the line: He suggested seating people in level of importance down the table.

He kept Nplr to his right, while by seniority and governance, sat on the board. There was no doubt that Maru would gain his seat as Chairman, but he had to properly perform the task of running the meeting first.

"Now that everyone is here... I believe we can now begin our emergency meeting of the board of directors. I see we have quorum with all members of the board of directors present... Good."

Maru fleeted his pudgy eyes from the table and gestured for Nplr to pass out reports for this upcoming meeting. The room was like a barren wasteland with so many different walks of Sullustan life surrounding the table: some of the members were those inside directors that coordinated and supervised various aspects of corporate governance ranging from finance to internal security to legal counsel. The meeting was like an annual gathering of the most pompous and pretentious leaders in Sullust Space, the group could only be but so lucky to have someone like Maru orchestrating their every move like a smooth rustle of a bow against a violin. Each board of director received a copy of the annual budget report, and as the course of the meeting endured, they could read the contents and pose viable questions when the appropriate time occurred.

Maru did not care for their issues because his main goal had not changed, much like the notes on a musical page that would not waver or change just because the structure and musicality was not to their liking—the maestro, but in the case the corporate maestro, had unparalleled control of everything he had his grasp on. Tactfully, he wanted to indication of corporate change pronounced in the most subtle way: across the front of the booklet, the usual green symbol of SoroSuub Corporation was not present, but a different symbol embossed with a symmetrical design of curves, half arches, trickling downward almost in complete spirals, prompting a new milestone for the business. Maru watched as members of the board began pointing and examining the emblem, pausing for several moments, before looking directly at Maru who waited patiently for their acknowledgement. He saw no point in being rude to them, so he waited before explaining the emblem.

Effortlessly gathering everyone’s attention, Maru began his remarks: "I see everyone has noticed a slight change in our logo and image for the front of our reports. Today on Sullust, I am hereby pleased to inform the SoroSuub Corporation Board of Directors that the Sullustan Council unanimously consented to the initiation of the Free Trade Directorate with all control and authority invested in the SoroSuub Corporation. As the established central authority of the Free Trade Directorate, the SoroSuub Corporation holds immediate control over the organization and maintains this area of space. So, from now on, the Sullustan Council and Sullustan people, in addition to the SoroSuub Corporation, will now be recognized and represented under the Free Trade Directorate."

"I understand the surprise in this change, but do not let this new development sway us from our original objective. We are here to capitalize in the production of weapons, starships, communications, sensors, and droids. For a long time, the Emperor valued our force pikes for his royal guards, so evidently our services might find some use after awhile, but we must provide for our own representative and political protection," Maru ended waiting for one of the board members to make a brief comment.

"Since everyone knows why we are here..." He alluded to with his language, but the board members appeared daft when processing what Maru said, which at times was discouraging, but these were the same ruthless businesspersons that he had to work with and they did complete their objectives as expected.

“…we will commence with our brief meeting before further changes and updates go into effect. I understand that everyone would like to provide their reports and have a discussion over some recent developments, but I am not going to stand for insolence under my careful eye.” Maru caught a glimpse of the viewscreen to his right, “Members of the board, look at the viewscreen at our new obstacle…” The image of the Houk found on the holodisc was fed earlier into the computer. Some of the members shuddered at the appearance to which Maru quipped, knowing inwardly he had cowered himself, “Enough—enough of that because that thing is our new problem. Look at its grotesque appearance.” The board members listened intently, one of which, an overweight Chief Information Officer Miko drummed his fingers on the table, sounding less than amused but still attentive.

“Is there a problem Miko?” Maru loaded his words, forcing tact as the words drew from his lips. Miko merely shook his head in response, fearing to speak, “Then don’t…do that…again.” Maru narrowed his eyes, “You can always be replaced.” Miko bowed his head and nodded shamefully.

Returning to their discussion, Maru finished his small briefing, “This Houk infiltrated our corporation and tried to steal information from our most secure data recesses. Miko… Make sure you beef up security and assure me that this problem will not happen again. I refuse to allow the inner workings of this corporation, of this newly-founded directorate, and my own agenda made public. Do what you must, and secure our future as best as possible. I will not tolerate anymore failures in this respect.” Maru refrained from looking at Miko, in order to layer on the guilt, “As for the rest of your board members, realize that your methods and your work are being closely monitored. Everything on our data systems will come through my offices, so do not think of trying to run anything around me. The corporation security has explicit instructions to reroute all logs through my office: This breach of security will not happen on my watch.”

“Nplr, please go ahead and give a report of our financial situation,” Maru stretched his hand forward, indicating for Nplr to speak.

With rigid jowls, the nearby Sullustan spoke from his seat, “We are experiencing some interesting developments with our profit margin. Remember that with our last move to stop the Corporate Sector from laundering more money from us, we suffered a 12 billion credit loss. We are slowly making gains, but that loss of profit will surely set us back for the coming months. From the profits projected in the past several weeks since the incident has been resolved, our profit margins have increased and gained stability. The profits will come, but at too large or heavy a price. By our reorganization into the Free Trade Directorate, these profits and margins will balance out, but we must make sure we are more careful about litigations and legal precedence. I believe we must purchase our own Free Trade Directorate legal counsel if we expect to make sure we are not paying indemnities in such large quantities as before.”

Maru had been sifting through the report book as some of the members had done so as well, “Good. We are looking at a healthy profit, even in light of our legal troubles. I commission you Nplr to find us a suitable legal counsel to help consider our new trade provisions. In the meantime, I would like to undergo the real reason we are here. Members, it has been quite some time since we have had an official chairman of our corporation, and now the Sullustan people have made a decision for us: we must provide a chairman of the corporation to run this directorate they now support.”

“With the time that was given, I still have my candidacy. No one has opposed or presented interest in running against me, so I request for you right now, to consider the procedural duty of electing me as the official chairman,” Maru completed his words as he sat back in his chair waiting for the process to begin.

Nplr took his closure as a gesture to begin the process, “Now members of the board, you all have one vote each. Without making this situation complicated, we will do a raised hand vote in this decision. In reference to the selection and election of a position of Chairman, SoroSuub Corporation, does the board of directors support Sei Maru in that position?”

Members of the board of directors raised their hands, the room followed quickly with a unanimous consent on the decision. The hands went down and the vote was recorded for the record. Nplr made an official statement on the decision, “I hereby confirm with unanimous consent that Sei Maru is now the official Chairman of SoroSuub Corporation with all rights and privileges invested upon him. Let his wisdom shed light and success on this esteemed office.”

The table erupted in applause for the new chairman. “Let me begin by enacting all authority and control of the SoroSuub Corporation, who is in rightful governance over the Sullustan Council, to be introduced as the directing entity of the newly-created Free Trade Directorate. As the new Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, I hereby invested myself with the sole authority of this directorate as Chancellor. Everyone, you will now address me as the Chancellor of the Free Trade Directorate.”

MUSTERING VALUABLE SUPPORT ACROSS THE GALAXY

“We should move forward with our plan,” Maru interjected quickly, thinking about all the possibilities. He combed his hand in a vat of cool green and yellow gelatinous liquid to procure a small delicacy in his fingers, drutash grubs. He and Nplr feasted comfortably on the delectable bugs as they played out their aspirations and goals in words, while sitting around a small table in an alcove of Maru’s office. The stately room was a stable embodiment of the intergalactic elite, a refined office fitted with sheer opulence. The carpeting was smooth, deep red velvet with the SoroSuub Corporation logo etched in gold and green in the center of the room, which was an open space, designed to emphasize growth and power.

“Maru, there are more important things to consider as well… We have to initiate a press release with all these changes to the galaxy and assure in that same document that we are in no way confronting the Empire. In fact, we also have some other issues to consider barring Imperial review because you know that standard procedure with changes or combined companies must go under Imperial review for approval…” Nplr reminded Maru of the hardships of working under an Imperial system, especially since the Empire has a strong presence in the galaxy.

Nplr stood immediately from his chair, thinking about another probable issue that could or would occur with their initiation of the Free Trade Directorate. For a long time, he remembered how easily this process could be curtailed at the discretion of talking with the regional and sector governance authority, which meant having to request an audience with Grand Moff Bhindi Drayson. His innards congealed at the risk of speaking to a high-ranking official, especially her. Nplr clasped his hands together looking at the large-full length mirror propped against the wall richly painted with a solid red tone. He uttered something, but he knew that Maru needed to consider this next move in their plan.

“Remember, we must talk with Grand Moff Drayson. She is still the regional authority of this area of space, and I know you will have to talk with her about this development and explain the position of the directorate,” Nplr contemplated whether these proceedings were necessary even though within he knew that the Empire would make sure that the governor of Sullustan Space would exact proper protocol on a new entity thirsting for power in the galaxy. However, in Nplr’s case, he had some unexpected and unfavorable encounters with certain Imperial detachments some time before he became Maru’s valued confidante and closest advisor. As a strong proponent for Sullustan elitism, he savored the day that Sullustans could freely walk amidst the humanocentric galaxy that lay before them. With the edicts of the Emperor Palpatine, the added overture of his requests was supported by millions if not billions of beings.

Nplr led protests against the crude measures on Obica and even within the Sullust system, but those efforts were quelled expeditiously. He left his political activism after watching the Empire tear down most of the resistance he devised, and the only way he could muster any support to continue in his stead to withstand Imperial humanocentrism, he felt under his web of influence and power he gained from his new superior, Sei Maru, that he could help Maru effectively push the issue and question the legitimacy of humanocentrist actions in the galaxy. He, like Maru, understood the perception and stigma of alien species across the galaxy. The majority of them were the cause for the Clone Wars that was the epicenter of danger and death so long ago, which prompted the need for the Empire, but Nplr disagreed with the methods of how they dealt with alien species. Trade and political growth should not change because of perpetual distrust and lack of loyalty among aliens. Regrettably, he considered the problem frustrating, but he was going to work with it the best way he could by pushing the Free Trade Directorate agenda.

Maru stood when he heard her name, “HER?!” He shook his head, realizing that he allowed the grub to almost go down the wrong pipe—he began to shudder and cough heavily.

The grub smacked against the palate of his mouth and slithered down his throat, “Excuse me—but her?” He stood as well, reclaiming his posture and walking over to Nplr’s general direction, “Isn’t she that ruthless governor who has pressured the corporation for years? I don’t want to even think about her sticking her nose into our business.”

Nplr reminded and added supplement to Maru’s comments, “Remember, she has the Black Fleet… Remember hearing about the Black Fleet Crisis? Let’s not go any further in those details, but she does wield serious power in the Empire, and we cannot have a serious faction without her knowledge—especially in the Ubiqtorate Expansive Region for which we are a part of, as far as I know.”

Sei Maru began thinking for a moment, letting the issue sink into his mind some more, “For some reason I did not realize that the Empire would have to review our operations. It is bad enough when the commerce authority and COMPNOR involve themselves annually with their typical inspections. I do not know how the board of directors would feel if there was another severe review of our facility. The last thing they need to find out is that we have this corporation divided into two organizations, working for two completely different goals—if they find out that we have our own military then we are going to surely have to cease our operations. Then the corporation could go bank—t”

“That’s enough Maru,” Nplr brought deafening silence, he stared at his superior displaying rational control. He knew that Maru was usually together, but evidently he had not considered the situation right now. As thorough as his research and his plans had been, he somehow in his infinite wisdom disbanded Imperial involvement, but Nplr never forgot. Nplr clarified what was truly important in his coming words, “We can beat this, but we will have to first make sure that we make contact with Grand Moff Drayson relatively soon. Plus, we have to begin getting our hands dirty as well…”

Then Nplr looked at the intergalactic interactive globe on Maru’s desk. Ideas started filtering in his head, like a sponge, he began having serious plans. A smirk perched in the corner of his jowls, “Think about this Maru… First, we draft a formal press release for the news to dispense. Then upon its release, we contact Drayson and take a shuttle to where the Black Fleet is located to speak with her before she sends her whole fleet to our system. We will conspire how we will approach our directorate and explain our position, hopefully with enough consideration and tact that the Empire will not need to do a serious on our system. While we are gone, it will be up to the corporation to prepare for a quick inspection and review, in case Drayson deems it necessary.”

Maru interrupted him thinking about where he is going, “I think that will work best, at least we can cover our tracks in the process. How about we move forward with our development on the part of the directorate, but I will speak to the Office of Advancement and have them begin moving the operations and establishing the headquarters on Koboth. Then we might not have to worry so much about our operations becoming clear… I like this plan.”

Nplr smiled confidently and rationally answered his superior, “Well, sir, my services are to your will and desire. Let’s embark on the greatest political scheme since the final days of the Old Republic.”

Maru responded wiping the gelatinous liquid on his jowl, “Of course, I wait with bated anticipation…”