7th Standard Month, Primeday, 7:31 AM
As Linda entered the office, the ambient hum of holo-calls, subdued conversations, and the soft tapping of devices formed a constant undercurrent of activity. Employees greeted her with subtle nods or brief acknowledgments, their respect evident yet unobtrusive. The office itself was a model of efficiency and modern design. A spacious layout housed rows of meticulously organized cubicles, while the far end featured a visitor's reception area adjacent to the main entrance. Glass-walled conference rooms flanked the sides of the floor, their transparency embodying the company’s ethos of professionalism and openness—at least in appearance.
To her left, positioned just beyond the rooftop entrance through which she had arrived, stood her private office. It was the largest space on the floor, designed to accommodate both her administrative workspace and a lounge area for confidential meetings and negotiations. Within the office awaited GG-69, her trusted protocol droid.
GG-69, a legacy model from Adascorp, was a testament to the enduring craftsmanship of a bygone era. Despite the introduction of newer competitor models, none had managed to match its unparalleled negotiation algorithms, extensive linguistic repertoire, or comprehensive legal database spanning countless galactic constitutions. This droid had been Linda’s reliable companion since her days in the military, its capabilities invaluable in matters of diplomacy, operations, and legal strategy. GG-69 was heavily modified—its internal chassis reinforced to withstand physical impacts and equipped with basic military protocols for self-defense—although its sleek exterior betrayed none of these enhancements. A pale purple finish with black accents adorned its frame, complemented by the company’s insignia emblazoned on its right shoulder.
7th Standard Month, Primeday, 7:32 AM
The automatic doors to Linda’s office slid open with a soft hiss, and the rhythmic echo of her heels announced her entrance. GG-69 stood at attention near the center of the room, its photoreceptors glowing faintly. Linda greeted the droid with a hint of humor in her tone.
“GG, I trust the company oil bath met your exacting standards?”
The droid inclined its head slightly, its vocoder emitting a clear, mechanical response.
“Affirmative, Madam. The maintenance procedures were executed with exceptional precision.
However, setting pleasantries aside, I must inform you of several updates.
No communication has been received from Nar Shaddaa thus far over the auction.
Nevertheless, they have identified potential lobbying opportunities concerning mining rights on Cirus II for syntonium extraction.
Additionally, Mr. Vow’wice has left a datapad on your desk containing two curriculum vitae for your review.
I must advise caution regarding the Selkath applicant—statistical analyses suggest a potential conflict of interest.
More critically, our kolto mining proposal has been subpoenaed following allegations of natural resource exploitation by an external party filed by a Selkath prosecutor.
The initial hearing is scheduled for today at noon, during which the court will determine a formal date.
It is worth noting that the Selkath prosecutor behind the motion has documented affiliations with Czerka Corporation and Aphotic Industries, raising questions about their impartiality.”
As GG delivered its briefing with machine-like efficiency, Linda skimmed the datapad Vow had prepared while simultaneously arranging her workspace. The soft hum of office machinery booting up provided a faint auditory backdrop.
“Notify our delegation team not to prioritize Cirus II at this stage.
The upcoming auction is of greater importance, and we can revisit Cirus II once those proceedings have concluded.
While syntonium is a valuable resource, current demand from warring factions remains minimal.
It could be a long-term investment, but not an immediate priority.
Regarding the applicants,”
Linda added, glancing at the datapad,
“I agree with your assessment of the Selkath. However, the other candidate appears simmilar at first glance.
Let me know if additional vetting is required.
Also proceed with arranging the interviews within the week or the day if possible
Is our legal team en route for the hearing?”
GG-69 emitted a faint whir as it processed the inquiry.
“Affirmative, Madam.
Based on their current trajectory and travel velocity, they are estimated to arrive within 48 minutes.
I will contact the aforementioned parties accordingly.”
“Perfect. Have them report directly to my office upon arrival.
I won’t allow Aphotic to claim another victory like they did on Makeb—we need to secure those rights.
Inform Vow that our lunch will be delayed until after the hearing.
The Magistrate will not be pleased if this situation deteriorates. Any updates from him, by the way?”
“Negative, Madam,”
GG replied, its tone unwavering.
“No communication has been established to date.”
Linda nodded thoughtfully, her expression firm but calm.
“Very well. Prepare the briefing materials for the hearing, and ensure I have all relevant data on the prosecutor’s affiliations. Let’s ensure we’re thoroughly equipped to counter these allegations.”