After receiving word about Lord Chris the CEO of Freeport 12 and its extension, Leon sat at his computer terminal and promptly messaged the relevant operatives to give out promotions and also to hire the people he has interviewed over the last two weeks.
Messages all sent to the new Chief of Operations and the newly hired Senior Chief Engineer.
With all of that processed it would be time to scan through his messages...
The most important message was received from All Worlds Enterprises and Securities.
Leon read the message and was very pleased with the response, so now it was time to arrange a Board meeting with his new associates. So he sent some more messages and arranged the meeting for the next day at 10.am standard time in the newly finished board room just beyond Leon's office.
Zeke Neptune is a long standing logistics operative with Freeport 12 and has been promoted to Chief Of Operations aboard the station and will be board member number 2 and is Leon's right hand man.
Takeo Katashi is of Kusari Origin and has been hired by Leon as his Senior Chief Engineer, and this fellow is also capable of doing robotics research and vessel design and modify.
Messages sent to both board members about the meeting.
Leon wants the meeting to make sure that we are ready to impress All world's with our installations and our plans for the future moving forward.
Leon looks at his watch and it is getting late, so he retires to his quarters and will sleep, and get ready for the meeting tomorrow.
Goes into the meeting room bows and takes a seat
Greetings, I am Zeke Neptune and I am very glad that I have received the promotion. As new chef of operations I am going to serve the Freeport and Zoners of Galileo even more and even harder to help it grow in power and influence.
Its amazing feeling to step in to the board meeting room and take a seat behind the meeting table.
I am looking forward to our future mutual contracts with the All Worlds organisation but till then I have some subjects that would be worth of considering during our meetings
Bows sligtly to the front, takes a holoprojector from pocket and places it on the table.
The device projects above the table a blue sphere on which various posts can be seen slowly rotating around.
He leans back on the chair and proceeds to explain
As the first and most important I would propose to take with AWES an long term contract that would be beneficent to both parties, points on one of the posts perhaps we should ask if we could use some of their installations as forward operating points and maintenance docks. In exchange they would gain a steady supply chain of materials they would request.
For the second, points on another post Ask them if our transactions will be done on secure channels and be kept in secrecy from parties not involved.
After presentation the projector turns off and Zeke takes it back to one of his pockets
For now these would be all matters that concerns me.
<Dressed in a fine suit and tie, Takeo Katashi enters the board room and smiles to himself.
Having been a participant of many previous meetings with dozens of stone-faced executives and squads of petty, ambitious and back-stabbing middle managers for the previous decade under the keiretsu business model of his former employer, Samura Industries, the placid environment and pleasant faces greeting him here ensure him that he had made a good choice in abandoning that lifestyle in pursuit of challenging but less stressful enterprises.
Taking a deep breath of peace inducing relief, he begins his introductions while still standing apart from the seated board members.>
"Greetings to my Fellow Board members,
I am very pleased to meet you all and quite eager to see what challenges lie ahead for us.
I know that you have all been given information regarding my certifications and accolades, so I will not bore you with an egotistic repetition of those facts now.
I have been made aware of the projects which are under your consideration by Mr. Dante, and I am excited by the possibilities that await us, and stand ready to assist you in realizing our collective dreams of the future.
I have moved all ships and equipment that I have at my personal disposal onto Freeport 12 and await your input as to the necessary logistics and preparations needed to dive into these projects without delay.
Please allow me to introduce my personal assistant, Miss Tanaka, who will be handling my front office and secretarial duties."
<An attractive young Kusari woman enters the room, also dressed in smart business attire.>
"Please contact her whenever my duties here require my absence from the base.
She is my most trusted business associate and I assure you that she is quite capable."
<Katashi then smiles and nods to Miss Tanaka, who then bows her head slightly in the direction of the board members and retires from the room.>
"These introductions being officially completed, with your permission, I will now join you at the table to answer any questions which you may have."
<Katashi then first walks around the table, shaking the hands of those present, asking their names and formally introducing himself with a bow of the head to each despite his prior introduction, then takes a seat.>
Leon taps his pen on his area of the meeting table and starts to think, how as an organisation we can make this work...
Well Gents, I think the first thing we should do is to invite All Worlds representatives to Freeport 12 and show them our facilities as they are at the moment. We obviously moth balled the Casino, but we can re-open this at some stage, and continue with negotiations regarding Orbital Spa and Cruise bringing gamblers to the Freeport to enjoy themselves.
Ok .... back to the main point
We should try and arrange it so we can help out All Worlds and also for them to help us, and one of these ways would be to supply commodities that our Zoner Whales can collect and distribute them to their facilities. The problem we will have is ... docking in house space, which does not give us much scope in our logistical ventures.
Also we should arrange to make money for both of our interests, and keep our finances up to scratch. Building equipment will also bring in revenue and also we may be able to supply All Worlds with some of our premium equipment.
But as I have said we need to get them here as soon as possible .. So I will communicate with them now and arrange a meeting.
Leon finishes his little speech and all of the board members are happy with the idea of inviting them to Freeport 12 and showing them around.
Well Gents ... we will suspend the meeting and reconvine once we get All Worlds representatives to the table.
Leon takes his seat at the large Board table and has an extensive file of paperwork at his side. opening the file Leon begins his pitch.
"Good day to Don Vega and his All worlds representitives, may I introduce my new Exectutive Officer and Senior Chief Engineer - Takeo Takashi. Also on my lef side is Zeke Neptune who is Chief of Operations at the two facilities, and also Oliver Evans our Security Chief.
As it stands we are now fully functional after our accident which damaged both bases, and manufacturing has started again. We have established more staff and crew and are able to sustain the base to full health with ease. I have heard that All Worlds are increasing their presence throughout Sirius, and we as Zoners are used to being in different areas on a regular basis.
My first point is regarding transport and security.
We have our own security ships like yourselves, Don vega, and also our logistics operations are extensive, which comprises of our Zoner whales and also some very handy contractors, who help us to get supplies that we can't. Transporting goods around Sirius can be dangerous and is always a risk of pirates and vagabonds.
We are trying to initiate more vessels and more staff, which will make our convoys more productive and secure with escorts. I would like to ask you your opinion, Don Vega, on the possibility of forming convoys of both AWES vessels and our own ZoG vessels. This hopefully will make travelling and supplying both of our interests more easily.
After we have your views about that I will let Takeo, give you an idea, what our engineering section does, and may also be able to help you if needed.
Over to you Don Vega"
Leon sits back in his chair and Don Vega starts his reply
CEO Don Vega takes a small sip of water from the glass in front of him. The room is silent, awaiting formal remarks even after some 'getting to know each other' discussions on the trip to the station as well as the drinks afterwards.
He slowly raises himself to his feet and quickly scans faces around the room, ensuring to meet eyes with all boards members to ensure he's got their attention. He's not disappointed. He begins a slow walk around the table as he delivers his address.
"We are extremely humbled to have received your invitation, CEO Leon Dante, to meet and discover the wonder that is your station here in Galileo. It is amazing what your group of Zoners has accomplished in the midst of what we'd almost consider 'wild' territories between Houses that usually come with higher risks for all investments! The fact that you have not only one but TWO well managed bases in the region with all the necessities for full production lines is quite impressive indeed."
"You are quite correct in your statement that we are looking to increase our presence Sirius-wide - even having Interspace Commerce bases in all houses and some invested areas doesn't mean the work is ever done. They do well for access to our vast Cargo Insurance services for clients, but there's always room for focused investment. This can take the form of deals with factions that wish to work with us to our mutual benefit as well as areas that need attention by way of promotion, subsidies, and specialized resources or personnel. "
"Interspace Commerce has often chosen to be that company that takes the chance - and we pride ourselves on it. It takes risk to make big steps and often it's easier not to take them alone."
Returning to his seat, he stands behind it, placing his hands on the back of the chair and looks directly at his hosts, with a smile.
"You are definitely speaking our language when you bring up the topics of convoys for supply and their increased need for security in these dangerous times."
"We've spent generously over the years to bring Sirius AWES Programs for Sirius-wide Escort Pay in addition to our continuous support of the Bounty Hunters Guild in all areas."
"We, too, would like to explore the possibility of joint operations for the sake of increased supply and security."
Sitting down in one smooth motion, he then gestures to his fellow AWES personnel.
"However, in these matters, I always consult with the in-house expertise. I'm sure our Security Officer Trex Praetor can elaborate on the security issues we face as well as upcoming concerns and responses."
Don is now the one leaning back lightly in his chair, eager to show off their talented personnel in the fields of convoy security operations. He looks to Trex to continue discussion on the topic.
Trex listened carefully to the meeting, he respected the Zoners but wasn't much for pleasantries in general and let the esteemed leaders handle the diplomacy.
He didn't want to waste anyone's time and kept it clear and concise. The new security issue of the Omicrons was a serious point for him and Delta Research Station was currently sitting in Omicron Delta with desperate need for security.
Trex rested both elbows on the table, leaned forward and started speaking.
"I am sure you are all aware of the potential security issues at hand. Nonetheless, Omicron hostilities is a different league compared to house space, especially for our company, which is why I am glad to have your experience with us today. Our company does not have the same blessing of neutrality. Nomads are an issue for all of us, but we will also have problems with Corsairs and Outcasts, among others.
From my time myself in the Edge Worlds, as well as our current intelligence gathering, I have a few points and suggestions to make.
Firstly.
We have concluded that the best entry to the Omicrons for our company is through Sigma-15. It will allow for using trade lanes most of the way and Freeport 8 is conveniently located in the system before jumping to Omicron Rho and then to Omicron Delta. We suggest Freeport 8 as a rendezvous point and checkpoint for routes between house space and the Edge Worlds. Freeport 11 in Omicron Delta as the other staging point.
Secondly.
Your access, experience and availability to well armed vessels will be key to security in the Omicrons. I suggest we focus our combined security efforts between Sigma-15, Omicron Rho and Omicron Delta, linked between Freeport 8 and Freeport 11.
We wonder which class of vessels will you have at your disposal for convoy escorts?
Which brings me to the third point and inquiry. Our company has limitations considering combat vessel licenses. Currently we have invested in Corvo class vessels, Waran bomber class vessels in addition to fighter class vessels. Corvo in all its glory, is primarily not intended for pure combat reasons, especially in a warzone like the Omicrons.
There is an opportunity to improve our company's- and combined efforts however. Which is why I am to place an order for a Bustard class liner. Codenamed FIREBRAND. It would improve our security situation, especially when not having combined efforts at all times. I will command it outside house space, focusing on the route I previously mentioned between Sigma-15 and Omicron Delta. It will also aid our personnel conducting research on Delta Research Station and their excursions.
So I would humbly ask if you could assist me in getting in touch with any responsible Zoner contact at Corfu Base or Livadia Shipyard, to let them know I am looking to purchase one of their Bustard vessels. The open license for this vessel should make things easy and it is currently as far as our company can stretch its power of action. I am sure you can understand our need to station the FIREBRAND at Delta Research station and I would be very grateful for any help in making the process as fast as possible.
These are my suggestions and I am open to hear your thoughts".
Trex leaned back into his chair and calmly and respectfully waited for the next person to speak.
Leon has had some time to ponder the talks so far, and after some refreshments the contingent of representitives have made their way back to the board room.
Leo takes his seat and begins....
" I have to say that all of the things brought forward have been impressive to say the least, and I am now thinking that some possibilities could be sorted out."
1. Improving security between our organisations will be essential to make sure any convoys are made safe and we will be initiating talks with Orbital Spa and Cruise about some vessels we require.
2. Helping each other with Commodity deliveries will be also a good approach to relations.
3. The possibility of ZoG helping in the transfer of this base you are moving will improve our engineering skills.
" So my points are really simple and straight forward and if we can agree on certain things, then we can carry on forward to a much improved situation for us all.
I do have another thing to add to my statement and that is .... Is it true that Interspace Commerce has access to Core technology"
"This would mean a more improved security wing for each of our organisations could be accomplished"
"Also I am really impressed with Trex and his analysis on safe passage through the Omicrons, but seeing as we are Zoners we may have some sway with certain organisations, but we will see"
"But for now I have to introduce you to my new Executive Officer and second to me and also he is Senior Chief Engineer Takeo Katashi"
Leon sits down as Takeo takes his position to speak.
<Typically dressed in business attire, an enduring affectation from his previous
experience in the Kusari corporate environment, Takeo Katashi stands and begins
his address to the assembled executives.
"Hello again to my fellow board members and honored greetings
to the AWES representatives. We thank you for your visit.
<Katashi bows slightly after speaking>
"It is my belief that our two organizations have much to offer
each other, and I am personally pleased at the opportunities working together
would provide.
In terms of transportation and security, our potential cooperation seems to be
a good fit. Our ships pass each other frequently while going about their separate
business, and as such, combining our efforts in these areas seems quite plausible
without cumbersome changes to our existing operations. Additionally, such
cooperation would likely make these activities less costly for all if both of our
organizations combined resources and shared the expenses of convoy operations.
And with respect to travelling through the Border Worlds and Edge Worlds areas,
as has been suggested, more ships equals more security.
As we all know, half of the battle of makingmaterials transportation profitable is
having a product to haul both ways. An agreement between our organizations
would much relieve us both from that concern.
I am greatly in favor of such an agreement."
<Katashi pauses to take a sip from a nearby glass of water, and clears
his throat before continuing.>
"On the topic of base maintenance, construction and movement,
I have much experience in this area and believe that I could be of assistance to AWES
in that respect. I also look forward to learning from the similar experiences of
your associates as well.
Among the tools in our possession providing us the ability to be of assistance in
such activities as base movement, I have personally overseen the outfitting of
one of AWES's fine Taurus Shuttles with an advanced array of optronic, thermal
and gravimetric sensors.
This ship can be used to scan and map the entirety of any movement route in the
finest detail, giving us the least chance of unpleasant surprises while enroute and
the best chance of success.
I hereafter will make myself available to any of your staff that seeks any advice,
data or technical collaboration in regards to engineering or scientific endeavours.
Speaking of the Taurus Shuttle, I was very impressed with it's construction,
loadout capabilities and agility. I personally think that these would make formidable
fighter/bomber escorts relative to convoy security."
Additionally, I would like to suggest a meeting of our separate Engineering Managers and Staff to further discuss your impending base move in greater technical detail.
<Katashi scans the faces of all of the seated dignitaries with a smile,
seats himself as well and ends his presentation with his trademark question.>
Don nods in understanding and approval after listening to Mr. Katashi's proposals for group synergies in operations going forward.
"I agree we have a lot to gain by beginning to work closer together on these important concerns in security of our assets."
"In reference to using external technology assets in security, we have access to some ship types with our Core faction contacts, however this technology exchange is a work in progress. Rest assured, we have good relations with this group that will only continue to grow. This will be a renewed priority given our new presence in the outer systems."
He looks at Takeo Katashi specifically.
"Mr. Katashi, we value your experience in the field of base structure relocation, and in fact intend to take you up on your offer of guidance and potentially on-site cooperation during the process. After some heavy thought on site potential options, I think our end goal will be a move from Leeds through Newcastle and Manchester to an eventual permanent settlement on the Liberty side of the Cortez system. It's not too bad a transit route, avoiding scrap fields and such. However, lack of experience in the destruction and rebuild of the station in its new home can always be countered with the aid of an external expert."
"I will forward your contact details to our Project Lead, Victor Willis, to discuss cooperation, at your convenience, with these operations. Any and all help you can provide is certainly appreciated."
Concluding his thoughts, Don addresses Trex on the security responses they received from the Zoner group, seeking feedback.
"Trex, what's your opinion of the Taurus vessels being suggested in our security forces? Do they have a place in the fleet?"
His gaze turns to his Security Officer now that his own points have been presented.
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