Star Wars VRMMO: Galactic Expedition

Tyler was in the main hangar when the Kessel transport landed. Khan walked down the ramp. "Draco, it is good to see you."

Tyler smiled. "It is good to see you too. Thank you for coming on such short notice."

Khan shook his head. "It is not a big deal. This also gives me an opportunity to see how you are doing over here."

Tyler nodded and led Khan on a tour of the facility. "So, Khan, how are the developments on Kessel?"

Khan smiled. "Everything is going quite well. The people are in great spirits. Everyone is off of the streets and are gradually getting jobs."

Tyler laughed. "I had no doubts about how the people were doing. I am more interested in the mining operations. While it is important to have happy people, it costs a lot of money to keep them happy."

Khan sighed. "This is true. It just warms my heart to know that my people are doing well. For the mines, we got them up and running yesterday. They are more efficient and safer than before thanks to your investments. We also began construction on new mining facilities that should be up and running today. In addition, we have finished construction on one refinery with several more on the way."

Tyler nodded affirmingly. "That is great news. Do you have a report on estimated output and our profit margins?"

Khan grinned. "We are excavating a large amount of spice each day. It is estimated that it will bring in a daily revenue of 20 million credits. For coaxium, we can only predict the numbers. There is not a consistent amount being mined and we do not have enough refineries running to handle the volume. The estimate places it at about 50 million credits each day in revenue once the other refineries are up and running. Further expansion in the future will increase these numbers."

Tyler smiled. "How are the margins?"

Khan laughed. "I would call it more of a chasm than a margin. The expenditures on equipment, maintenance, wages, and the various amenities amount to about 5 million per week."

Tyler was joyous. "That is amazing. We have a profit margin of 69 million per day!"

After his short high, he came back down under a realization. Although he is making a lot, it would cost a tremendous amount to develop Limitless and it's worlds. In addition, 20% of the profits from Kessel belong to its government. Regardless, 55.2 million credits each day is a massive sum.

For reference, there are a few examples. Firstly, we can use the real world. The United States Government collects about $4.5 trillion dollars in taxes each year. Converted to credits, that is about 1.1 trillion credits. Even with that revenue, there is still a deficit.

Another example is in Star Wars. When Count Dooku was captured by pirates, the Republic had no qualms about sending a reward of 1 million credits in spice for an exchange. This essentially proves that on a large scale, this amount of credits is mere pocket change.

On the bright side, this income meant that he could soon expand Limitless and its ȧssets.

Tyler got back to business. "I would like for you to put out a hiring notice for engineers, chemists and researchers. It would be highly beneficial to us if we can develop our ability to produce medical products and anything else related to Kessel's exports. Since we have the capital, we will have a larger profit margin if we can keep the whole process in house."

Khan nodded and signaled to one of his aides to go do it. "I'll have it done immediately. This could make Kessel a hotspot for research and education throughout the galaxy. I predict that it would become quite popular due to the safety provided by the maelstrom. There is only one route in and out for large starships."

Tyler nodded. "My thoughts exactly."

The tour took about 30 minutes. Once they were done, Tyler led them back down to the hangar. It was now about 1PM. They had about an hour before they had to leave for the senate hearing.

Tyler turned to Khan and his party. "Before we depart for the Senate Building, I would like to show you all the results of my investments outside of the guild hall."

As he said this, a roaring engine could be heard. Looking to the source, a humongous starship was approaching the hangar. This was the bulk of the credits that Tyler spent at the drive yards. The list of his purchases is as follows:

*Item: Pelta Class Frigate*

*Rank: Bronze*

*QTY: 1*

*Description: The Pelta-class frigate, also known as Pelta-class medical frigate or Republic medical frigate during the Clone Wars, was a versatile model of frigate manufactured by Kuat Drive Yards. During the Clone Wars between the Galactic Republic and Separatist Alliance, the frigates were used by the Republic Navy to safely ferry injured clone troopers to medical stations for treatment. They also served as supply ships to deliver armaments, medical supplies, and food rations.*

*Stats:

Max Speed - 800 kph

Max Acceleration - 4000 G

Length - 282 meters

Shielding - Deflector Shield Generators

Sensor Systems - Long-Range Sensor

Navigation System - Equipped

Complement - 8 Starfighters

Docking Bays - Port, Starboard, Ventral Hangar

Escape Pods - 16

Crew - 900

Passengers - 200

Consumables - 5 months*

Point-Defense Laser Cannons

Turbolasers

Tractor Beams

*

*Item: Z-95 Headhunter*

*Rank: Silver*

*QTY: 5*

*Description: The clone Z-95 Headhunter was a model of starfighter produced jointly by Incom Corporation and Subpro Corporation. A variant of the popular Z-95 Headhunter, it was designed specifically for use by the Grand Army of the Republic's clone pilots.*

*Stats:

Width - 18.12 m

Max Speed - 1150 kph

Max Acceleration - 4000 G*

*Weapons:

Ion Cannon

Twin Laser Cannons

Concussion Missiles

Proton Cannon*

*Item: LAAT/i*

*QTY: 4*

*Description: The Low Altitude Assault Transport/infantry (LAAT/i), also known as the Low Altitude Assault Transport, Republic attack gunship, Republic Gunship or Assault Gunship, was one of the several models in the Low Altitude Assault Transport line of starships that mainly served as gunships and troop transports for the Grand Army of the Republic during the Clone Wars. Its role was to transport Clone troopers as well as offering air-to-ground and air-to-air support for the Galactic Republic against the Confederacy of Independent Systems. The LAAT/i gunship saw extensive use in numerous battles and campaigns of the Clone Wars.*

*Stats:

Length - 17.69 m

Height - 6.94 m

Max Speed - 620 kph

Max Acceleration - 100 G

Crew - 6

Passengers - 30*

*Weapons:

Twin Laser Cannon Turrets

Twin Laser Beam Turrets

Twin Mass-Driver Missile Launchers w/ Missile Belts*

*Item: BARC Speeder*

*Rank: Common*

*QTY: 20*

*Description: The Biker Advanced Recon Commando (BARC) speeder was a speeder bike manufactured by Aratech Repulsor Company. It was designed for use by the Galactic Republic's Grand Army during the Clone Wars. The speeder gave the ordinary clone trooper fighting on foot increased speed, mobility and firepower. Used primarily as a scouting and escort vehicle, it was readily adaptable for various environments and missions.*

*Stats:

Length - 4.6 m

Width - 1.29 m

Height - 1.53 m

Max Speed - 520 kph

Max Acceleration - 80 G

Crew - 1

Passengers - 1 w/ modification*

*Weapons:

Twin Laser Cannons*

The guild members that were in the hangar were shocked. They could easily trample over any other guild with this firepower. However, they quickly realized that they were still just an ant to most forces in the galaxy.

Despite their realization, other players did not feel the same. People had already started lining up for the recruitment exam. They now understood that there was no room at the top for small guilds and teams. They would still be able to easily survive and thrive, but they could never hope to match up to the superpowers in the galaxy.

Tyler spun around towards Khan. "What do you think? And this is only my first purchase."

Khan laughed. "It seems that we have a very prosperous future ahead of us!"

Tyler nodded. "You got that right. I have something to do before we depart. Would you mind following me?"

Tyler led the group to the reception area. While they were walking over, Xander, Kumbis, and John joined them.

In the reception area was a huge crowd of players. Tyler smiled. "Welcome everyone. I am Draco, Jedi Knight, Guild Leader of Limitless, Sovereign of Kessel, and soon to be a Senator of the Galactic Republic."

Everyone was silent. You could hear a pin drop despite there being thousands in the hall. The information about Kessel and his Senate appointment had not been found out by the general playerbase as of yet. They were shocked to say the least.

"Today will mark the beginning of our first wave of recruitment. I want all of you to understand something. Limitless has no need for weak players. We are looking for the strong. However, strength is not the only thing needed for us to reach the top. We also need skill, intelligence, resources, among other things."

"To avoid any formalities, we are willing to allow anyone that is a Jedi or Sith, intermediate or higher pilot, or advanced or higher in any profession or secondary class to bypass the test. You still need to be evaluated to determine a rank but you will be automatically accepted into Limitless after you sign the contract."

Upon saying this, a few hundred people made their way out of the crowd to participate in the placement exam rather than the acceptance exam. Tyler noticed several force sėnsɨtɨvė individuals among the group. However, most of them looked to be profession oriented players and pilots.

"These announcements will be repeated. I am now going to turn this show over to Guild Elders Napoli and Kumbis as I have matters to attend to. May the recruitment begin!"

As people started shuffling forward to take the exam, there were various displays set up to outline the conditions for each rank in the guild. People were complaining about how strict the contract would be but kept moving forward regardless. Their fate would be tied to Limitless. That is, of course, given that they pass the test.

Tyler and Xander led the Kessel party to a transport before heading off to the Senate Building. While they were in transit, Tyler got a call from the Jedi Temple. "This is Draco speaking."

A voice sounded over the line. "The Council has summoned you. You are to return at some point today."

Tyler rolled his eyes. This must be his first mandatory quest as a Jedi Knight. "Alright. I'll come in after I conclude my business." He hung up.

Xander looked over. "What was that about?"

Tyler sighed. "The Council has an ȧssignment for me. I have to see them later today."

Xander chuckled. "I guess that I can count myself lucky that I haven't been called upon as of yet."

They soon arrived at the Senate building. They were welcomed by one of the Chancellor's aides. She informed them that the senate was already in session. She would escort them to their pod. Once the other agenda items are done with, the hearing will begin.

After a long walk, they arrived outside the Galactic Senate Chamber. Khan left behind his aides as he and the two players entered the pod. There was about 30 minutes until their hearing was set to begin.

That half an hour was brutal. Listening to all of the senators and their antics was irritating. Finally the agenda was complete.

Valorum called out. "Now we will get to the primary reason for today's session. The hearing for Kessel's plea to join the Republic will now begin. I welcome Kessel's representatives to take the floor."

Tyler made use of the controls and flew the pod towards the center of the chamber. "Hello everyone. I am Draco, Jedi Knight, Guild Leader of Limitless, and Sovereign of Kessel. I stand before you today with a goal. I have seen the wonders of the Galactic Republic. Many of its people live happily and their systems are thriving. On behalf of the people of Kessel, we wish to join the Galactic Republic. Before we have any questions, I would like to allow someone to speak."

Khan then stood up. "I am Governor Khan Ardel of Kessel. I wish to clear any and all confusion regarding the situation on my planet. I was born on Kessel. My family was poor. It was difficult to find work and we were bȧrėly able to afford food. Many others suffered like this but no one received help from the monarchy. I established a resistance movement. Our primary goal was to help provide relief to our suffering brothers and sisters."

"Then, two men changed everything. Lord Draco and Vice Guild Leader Xander came in and removed the abusive monarchy from power. Then, rather than taking the planet for themselves, they gave it back to its people. With Lord Draco's guidance and continuous investments, the people of Kessel have had some of the burdens of poverty relieved."

He then sat back down. Tyler then took the stand again. "Our goal in joining the Republic is one of mutual benefit. Kessel possesses many resources that are critical to the operations of any system. We need funds, and you need resources. I believe that is simple enough. I will now open this up to any questions."

Almost instantly, a pod shot out and someone spoke up. "I am Senator Sheev Palpatine of Naboo. I have taken note of the intentions you have presented to the chamber. However, I am sure that many of us remain somewhat skeptical regarding your true motives for joining the Republic. How can you ȧssure us that you are an ally, rather than a threat?"

Internally, Tyler was flaming the living shit out of the man. Of course the slimy bastard had to say something. Conveniently, any other pods that were moving out to ask a question had retreated. No one dared to follow up such a straightforward and vicious question.

Despite his anger, he composed himself. "That is a great question, Senator Palpatine." He glared at him with the intent to kill.

On the surface, Palpatine was calm. But internally, he was panicking. He had yet to confirm that this man isn't a threat to his plans. He now was somewhat suspicious that Draco might know his true identity.

"I can prove that I am an ally by making a certain claim. My values are aligned with that of the Galactic Republic. I believe that my actions thus far have proven this statement. My actions on Kessel were ones that resulted in vast benefits for both sides. Rather than take the planet for myself, which I could have easily done, I handed it over to the people. On top of that, rather than claiming some benefits and then leaving Kessel out to dry, I am continually investing in the planet to help us both develop. Kessel's prosperity is my prosperity."

"Lastly, but definitely not least, I eliminated the practice of slavery in the system. Every single laborer that was risking their life for no rewards now has a generous wage. I have even invested heavily in the improvement of safety, and in the provision of amenities. I have not spared any expense in ensuring the safety of my people. If these actions do not prove my statement, I don't know what will."

The chamber erupted into a round of applause. It was not every day that someone could completely turn around an interrogation. They all supported the actions that Draco has taken.

After waiting for a minute, Valorum spoke up. "Since there are no more questions, I will now put this matter to a vote."

The vote was fairly brief. It was concluded in a matter of minutes which was quite surprising to most.

Valorum nodded seeing the results. "By the power invested in me by this Galactic Senate, I proclaim Kessel the newest member of the Galactic Republic. Through this, I would like to congratulate Lord Draco on his appointment to Senator for Kessel. Since we have completed today's agenda, this session is adjourned."

Yet again, the chamber exploded with cheering and applause. Tyler flew the pod back into their slot. "Guys, I recommend we get out of here as quickly as possible. Unless you want to be eaten alive by a mob of senators."

Xander and Khan laughed as they regrouped with Khan's aides and rushed out of the building.

Despite their efforts, they were swarmed by representatives from all directions. Tyler turned to his group. "Have fun guys!" He then equipped a cloak and snuck to the hangar. Fortunately, he pinged R2 before they left the chamber so his ride was waiting for him. He hopped in and raced towards the Jedi Temple.

Soon after, he arrived in the Council Chambers. "I apologize if I made any of you wait masters." He bowed.

Windu nodded. "No worries Draco, or it is Senator Draco now, right?"

Tyler laughed and scratched the back of his head. "What can I say? I'm just a small guy trying to get by in a big galaxy."

Windu chuckled. Tyler was shocked. 'I think that was the first time I have ever seen him with anything other than anger or contempt written across his face. Must be my purple lightsaber!'

"Nonetheless, you have done a great service for the Jedi Order and the galaxy as a whole. We have learned about the conditions on Kessel. Your actions in liberating Kessel are quite commendable. However, we do not approve of your handling of the aftermath."

Yoda nodded. "Clouded, the future is. The dark side grows ever stronger."

Windu nodded. "Since your efforts are aimed towards the benefit of the people of Kessel, we can overlook it. Keep in mind that we will reprimand you if you stray from the path of the Jedi Order."

Tyler nodded. "I understand Master Windu. I am only thinking in the long term so do not worry. I have no plans of straying from the value of the order."

Windu smiled. "That is good to hear. Now, let us get to the primary reason we have summoned you today. You may come in now!"

The chamber doors slid open revealing a younger looking version of Yoda. He was even dressed similarly.

Yoda smacked the ground with his cane. "Time to take a padawan, it is."

Kit Fisto nodded. "During your time under me, I gained a great respect for you. You manage to keep to the values of the Jedi Order while also taking the most appropriate course of action in a scenario."

Yoda nodded. "Careful, you are. Sense the dark side in you, we have."

Windu sighed. "When I look at you, I see a younger version of myself. You are righteous in your beliefs but have delicate control over your emotions. You are able to harness your emotions and use them to your benefit without letting them control you. Have you ever heard the Sith Code?"

Tyler shook his head. "I have not. What about it?"

Windu smiled. "They go like this: Peace is a lie, there is only passion. Through passion, I gain strength. Through strength, I gain power. Through power, I gain victory. Through victory, my chains are broken. The force shall free me. Do you understand what this means?"

Tyler thought for a moment. "It is essentially the opposite of the Jedi Code. Rather than locking your emotions up, they want you to let them run wild and allow the dark side to consume them."

He kept his actual interpretation to himself. He is of the belief that neither the Jedi or the Sith are correct. The force is supposed to be a balance. One needs to make use of their darkness and their light. In a way, a user of the force would constantly be in a tug of war to maintain this balance. Achieving harmony will bring out one's true potential.

Windu nodded. "Indeed. It is a very dangerous mindset. I will warn you. Be careful. If you are consumed by the dark side, we will have no choice but to take action. Moving on from that, this is your padawan. His name is Kai. He has just completed his youngling training and is in need of a teacher. He has massive potential and we decided that we would have you teach him."

"Due to the dark side clouding the future, we believe that war will soon consume the galaxy. From our observations, you have great skills in leadership and command. If a conflict erupts, the Republic will look to us to command its forces. I hope you can meet our expectations."

*Long Term Quest Triggered: Training a Padawan*

*Rank: Legendary*

*Description: The Jedi Council has ȧssigned a padawan learner to you. Train your padawan until they have reached the standard of a Jedi Knight. The death of your padawan will have severe repercussions.

*Reward: Revered with Jedi Order, Promotion to Jedi Master, NPC Companion*