In addition to trading, clan bounty hunters and mercenaries contribute 30% of their earnings from completed jobs. This tax helps maintain the fortress and provides funds for ship repairs when they come to the clan. While they still need to cover labor costs, the contributions also support the care of foundlings brought back to the clan.
The clan thrives on a culture of camaraderie and mutual support. To celebrate successful jobs and share stories of daring adventures, they hold regular gatherings known as "Clan Nights." These vibrant affairs are filled with laughter, music, and a profound sense of belonging. New members, especially foundlings rescued from dangerous situations, are welcomed with open arms. Everyone is encouraged to share their stories, reinforcing the idea that each member, regardless of their past, plays a vital role within the clan.
Collecting his thoughts, Rayden stepped out of the observatory, a sense of purpose coursing through him. The large glass windows offered a panoramic view of the Kweving Heights, showcasing the sprawling landscape of Mandalore, but his focus was elsewhere—he needed to meet with Kalia and Dren. They were key figures in the clan's trading operations and held sway over the resources that flowed in and out of their fortress.
As he navigated through the fortress, Rayden contemplated his plans. The clan had specific needs, and the demand for certain goods was rising, especially with the upcoming changes in trade routes due to unrest in the outer territories. Rayden envisioned using his system to acquire inexpensive blueprints, which the clan could then use to manufacture and sell blasters, speeders, fighters, and more.
Even his system agrees with his idea and created a mission for him.
[Mission issued]
[Objective: Convince Kalia and Dren to collaborate on creating a droid production plant and the procurement of materials to create droids]
[Reward: Blueprint for a droid production plant.]
That's not a bad reward. I need to figure out how to convince Kalia and Dern next. Rayden thought to himself as he walked to meet the duo.
He arrived at a meeting room, a simple yet sturdy chamber adorned with maps and trade blueprints. Kalia, a sharp-minded woman with an eye for detail, was studying the latest reports. Dren, who handled logistics, was checking inventory metrics on a handheld device.
Both noticed him walking in.
Kalia: Morning, Rayden. What are you doing here?
Dren: Shouldn't you be training for the upcoming competition?
Rayden: I'm resting today. In fact, I have something to discuss with both of you. But first, thanks, Dern, for finding those crystals that Mom wanted.
Dern: No problem, anything to help you and Lady Elyse?
Kalia: So, what did you want to talk about?
Rayden took a moment to gather his thoughts before speaking. He could sense the curiosity in Kalia's eyes and Dren's focused attention.
Rayden: "I've been thinking a lot lately about our clan's future, especially with the shifts in the trade routes and with the recent Stark Hyperspace War. There's a growing demand for droids, bacta and other items in the outer rim, and I believe we can capitalize on that."
Kalia raised an eyebrow, intrigued.
Kalia: "Go on. How do you plan to tap into that market?"
Rayden smiled, sensing that he had piqued their interest.
Rayden: "We can ignore bacta for now since we only produce a small amount for ourselves. But what if we collaborated to build a droid production plant? We could design and manufacture various types of droids, not just for our needs but also to sell to other clans. The profit could really boost our resources."
Dren looked thoughtful, typing away on his handheld device.
Dren: "That does sound promising, but it's a big undertaking. We'll need materials, manpower, and a solid plan. Do you have any ideas on how to start?"
Rayden: "Exactly. We could pool our resources and expertise. Kalia, you have a knack for identifying the right opportunities, and Dren, your logistics experience will be crucial for ensuring that everything runs smoothly.
Kalia crossed her arms, considering the proposition.
Kalia: "It's a significant investment, Rayden. We need to ensure that the demand is there once we start. Have you done any market research? And what our Varn have you talked with him?"
Rayden shook his head.
Rayden: I have not talked to my father yet because I have been trying to come up with something before speaking with him
.
Dren: We assist with trade for the clan, Rayden. If you can convince your father to establish a production line, we can secure the necessary materials and sell the droids. Speaking of which, why sell droids and not other items?
Rayden: Who says we won't sell other items? I have big plans, not just for our clan but for all of Mandalore as well. Droids are just our first step; next, we'll expand to blasters, tools, speeders, and maybe one day, even starships.
Rayden: Most clans are small, and their members often focus on day-to-day survival. If we can offer droids and other tools at reasonable prices, it will enhance their productivity. By helping our people improve their lives, we can uplift many others throughout the Outer Rim. We have the potential to become the premier source for high-quality, affordable items.
Dren looked up from his device, a spark of intrigue in his eyes.
Dren: That's an ambitious plan, young heir. However, to execute it, we need more than just the production line. We also require the necessary materials, manpower, blueprints, and sales channels. Kalia and I can manage the sales and procurement of materials, but we might struggle with the other requirements.
Kalia: "Yes, Rayden, even if the production line can be automated, we still need people to oversee it. Additionally, we don't have any blueprints for what you want to create, and no one will sell you up-to-date blueprints for that. We would have to research and develop them, which takes years and a lot of credits."
Rayden: "That's fine; we are still in the planning phase, and I know we don't have enough people to work on this just yet. However, I already have a plan."
Dern: "Do tell."
Rayden: "You both will be responsible for purchasing materials and selling what we produce. For the manpower needed to handle the creation and oversee production, we can reach out to Clan Drav'korr. They are renowned for their armor and engineering skills, and they enjoy building and creating. With their entire clan of around 470 members working on this project, we will have sufficient manpower. Additionally, Clan Vhar'kar could assist us, as they like to experiment with creating better weapons."
Rayden: "As for the blueprints, I have a source from whom we can obtain them, and we can leave it at that."
Kalia smiled as the idea began to take shape in her mind. She realized that this was more than just a random thought from Rayden; it was a real plan.
Kalia: "All right, Rayden. I'm in, but we need to be strategic about this. Let's outline our objectives and potential challenges before we present the matter to Varn and convince him together."
Rayden felt a rush of excitement. His plan was starting to take shape, and with Kalia and Dern on board, he was confident they could turn this vision into reality.
Rayden: "Great! Let's get to work on the details. I can't wait to see what we can achieve together."
For the next few hours, the trio discussed and brainstormed ideas about how this endeavor could work, the challenges they might face, and how to overcome them. They also talked about what items to sell in addition to droids.
—----
At around 6 p.m., Rayden was walking with his mother, Elyse, to visit his grandfather. Earlier, he had discussed plans for their trading empire with Kalia and Dern, but for now, that could wait. It was time for the family to support his grandfather.
The sun hung low in the sky, casting a warm golden hue over the clan's memorial for the fallen. Rays of light filtered through the trees, illuminating the stones that bore the names of those who once stood strong. Rayden stood with his mother at the foot of a beautiful granite monument, his hands clasped tightly in front of him.
Torin stood by the monument, not in his armor, but in loose clothing. He silently traced his hand over the name and image of his wife, Maria. Beside the grave lay purple flowers and an open bottle of alcohol. Every year, he dedicates an entire day to drinking and being close to his wife. He doesn't speak; he stands in silence, allowing years of love and memories to wash over him as he mourns the love of his life.
Today, however, Torin was reminiscing about Maria with Rayden and Elyse. He shared stories about how he first met her and the efforts he made to win her affection. He recalled the joy they felt when they found out she was pregnant, as well as the moments when she crafted his armor and then Varn's armor.
"Your grandmother loved this place," he said, trying to force a smile. "She believed it was a reminder that those we lost are always with us."
Torin looked not only at Maria's name but also at all the other members of the clan who were laid to rest in the monument.
"I wish we could have met her," Elyse said, resting a hand on Rayden. "She never got to meet Rayden either."
"She would have loved you both," Torin added, his voice steady but tinged with sadness. "She would be so proud."
Before long, Varn joined them, his demeanor reflecting the same mix of grief and strength that defined their family. He approached cautiously, observing the solemn atmosphere. "I hope I'm not interrupting," he said, his usual cheerful tone softened with respect.
"Not at all," Torin replied, stepping forward to embrace his son. "You're here; that's all that matters right now."
Over the next few hours, the four of them exchanged stories, with Torin and Varn continuing to share tales about Maria. She trained the current armor with a tough, no-nonsense approach and cared deeply for all the foundlings brought from outside. Maria dreamed of turning the clan into a house, with allied clans pledging their support. Her ultimate hope was to help the Mandalorian people thrive and prosper.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, tranquility deepened, and a gentle breeze rustled the leaves around Rayden. Walking home, he reflected on the day and the future. He had successfully convinced Kalia and Dern to support his idea of starting a company that would produce droids, blasters, tools, and any other item for which he could obtain a blueprint.
Though he felt a sense of sadness about never getting to meet his grandmother—a loss that had deeply affected his grandfather and father—he was filled with anticipation for what lay ahead. He considered the competition, the impending Mandalorian civil war, the Battle of Naboo, and the Clone Wars. With his knowledge, he was determined to ensure that his clan and his people would never experience a tragedy like the Night of a Thousand Tears under the Empire. He dreamed of meeting Obi-Wan, Yoda, Qui-Gon Jinn, Anakin, Ahsoka, and Padmé.
'
In my previous life, I was just an ordinary guy commuting between work and home. I had no social life or romantic relationships, but now I find myself destined to lead a clan. I aspire to create my own Empire, guiding my people not only to conquer the stars but also to protect and support all who fall under my banner. I dream of winning the hearts of the women in this galaxy and building a large family filled with joy, complete with many wives and children.
As Rayden walked into his room, a silent conviction welled up inside his heart. He envisioned himself walking down a grand hall, flanked by guards in Mandalorian armor, wielding a Beskar shield and a lightsaber pike. He imagined sitting on a throne intricately carved with designs of battles, weapons, and beasts. To his side, he saw his wives, smiling and pregnant, while little children ran and played together. Padmé, Ahsoka, Chuchi, Twi'lek women, and women of other humanoid species looked at him lovingly.