1st Oration // Voice

[dun_moch]

I am Count Dooku.

[The voice on the Network is deep, rich, precise in its enunciation, and British as hell. Space-British.]

I have already examined the documentation provided by our... gracious hosts on this 'Earth.' I won't waste the time of my fellow heroes with basic questions. Yet I do still have questions, many of them, and I have often found that information from beyond official channels can be quite valuable.

[Particularly when Dooku doesn't trust the official channels one bit. Then again, he has no reason to trust any of these other 'imPorts' either. He will decide for himself what is truth.]

To begin with, I would like to know what possibilities there are for finding new employment. I am many things, but a singer has never been one of them. Especially not for a... [You can almost hear his lip curling.] ...metal band.

Anyone kind enough to provide me with information will have my gratitude- and through me, gratitude from the Confederacy of Independent Systems. I shall await your responses.

[OOC: Permissions post!]

Comments

[mightthinkthat]

Well, perhaps if you told me what you believe befits you, Count, I can see if I can't dig something up for you. [ Anything for the gratitude of the Confederacy! Though, wow, on the metal band. ]

Treat their TDM thread as canon?

[dun_moch]

Certainly. Before I was so unexpectedly abducted here, I had what you could call a political career. I also have experience in diplomacy, peacekeeping, business and scholarship. I am certain a suitable position in any of these fields could be arranged.

video;

[brushoff]

[ a Count! with a metal band! Hello there person who Dorian's going to worm into his good graces. ]

Well, as frontman for a popular band here, though a different genre, I can give you tips and great places to start off for gigs. After all, you won't be able to get a new job right off the bat, will you?

video;

[dun_moch]

We shall see. I intend to rectify this situation as swiftly as possible, but I do recognize there may be setbacks. Any leads you can provide would be most appreciated, Mister Gray.

[inmyothertights]

You're a space count? Is there nobility in space where you're from?

[His boyfriend is the king of space in the near future, this is an interesting development. But mostly.]

What kind of information are you really looking for?

[dun_moch]

[The Count gives an amused little snort.]

My title is Count of Serenno, to be exact. Not 'space count.' But there are many spacefaring planets in my Galaxy whose inhabitants bear titles of nobility.

But as to my questions: let us start with whatever information you believe a newly-processed imPort ought to possess. Particularly information that the local government's documents might have... omitted.

[slightlyoffchilt]

Imagine how that would look, if you were to spurn this generosity of employment so early. What if there is merit in the appearance in compliance?

[dun_moch]

Appearances can certainly be important, sir. But reality must be considered as well. And the reality is that I have neither the experience nor the desire to be a singer for this... Sulfur Mustard.

[It is as though the military here calculated to select a troupe sporting a name offensive to the Count's tastes.]

Surely you don't expect our hosts would be so petty as to take it poorly if I pursued a simple change in employment? If they are truly generous, they will respect my wishes in this matter.

video

[foreshadower]

A little old for that sort of thing, aren't you? [ A half-laugh. ] My apologies, you're certainly not... suited for such music.

Perhaps you should start with your strengths, and we could direct you toward better employment.

video

[dun_moch]

[The Count chuckles in reply, half-smiling.]

Indeed. Art and stardom are games for rather younger beings, I should think. Especially if this 'metal' music is what I expect it to be.

[I.e., nothing good. Give Dooku some decent Mon Cal opera any day, instead.]

Now then, my strengths. Where to begin? I have experience in policy and diplomacy, certainly. I have accompanying experience in swaying large crowds of beings, whether through my voice or in writing. I have skill in handling and arranging exceptionally large sums of money. I have been a successful military leader and a peacekeeper, in my time.

[Modesty, too. That's totally one of his skills.]

Really, I can think of a dozen better uses for my abilities than what they have assigned me.

Voice

[morethan084]

[Skye was laying in her bed, looking up some information when a voice came up that wasn't familiar.

Count Dooku. She had to fight not to snort loud enough for him to hear.]

Confederacy of Independent Systems?

[Skye had never heard of that before, so of course the first thing she responds with is a question.]

Voice

[dun_moch]

Yes, the interstellar polity which I have the honour to serve as Head of State. A vast and proud power. I could tell you more, if you like, but as I said I have some questions of my own which I would like to attend to.

video;

[angelfire]

Between you and me you have more of a lounge singer vibe going for you. You're certainly not shy about speaking to an audience.

It's a shame that space and religion seem to be at odds with each other, I can only imagine you'd be an excellent preacher. A voice like that makes people sit up and pay attention.

video;

[dun_moch]

A preacher. Really, now.

[The Count snorts, amused. It's nice to have someone recognizing the power and presence of his voice, at least.]

Perhaps I would do well in that position. Yet my spiritual beliefs are a rather private matter, and I have no interest in aligning myself with whatever sects may be popular here on Earth.

Voice

[exsithstential]

Confederacy of Independent systems?

[Referring to a national body in terms of "Systems" rang a bit familiar. Not many import universes could speak in such broad vernacular. But this.. Confederacy. No such nation existed in his universe, at least that he was aware of. However, his perspective was three hundred years out of date.

At least for his era.

But it was just as likely another galactic spanning civilization.]

I'm intrigued. Your rank, "Count". You hold station with this Confederacy.

[It wasn't a question exactly. More half acknowledgement/half observation as Revan considered the implications.]

I'm afraid you'll find the Confederacy quite unreachable for the time being. But as an Ambassador for new arrivals, and a fellow import, I am at your disposal, Count Dooku.

Voice

[dun_moch]

Indeed I do, although not in the way you may be thinking. The rank I hold within the Confederacy is Head of State- a position I was honoured to be elected to. My title is a family matter, gained through inheritance.

I understand that I have been torn away from my home and my mission. Most distasteful. Nonetheless, I am most grateful for your offer of guidance, Ambassador... Revan.

[Now there is a curious coincidence, he thinks. Revan. In all the vast history and diversity of the Galaxy, only one has ever held that name: a quasi-legendary figure, shrouded in thousands of years of history and myth to the extent that the records could not even agree on whether Revan was male or female. Sith and Jedi, villain and hero, terror of Mandalorians and Republic alike, inspiration to Darth Bane who had created the Order Dooku now serves. Surely this could not be the same being, though. Surely?]

text;

[infomodder]

If you're seeking information, you may find this of interest.

[but old bro mcgee here should totally stay in his metal band job because fuck yeah]

permavoice;

[dun_moch]

I am much obliged. It is good to see that imPorts have been taking the initiative to develop their own accounts of things.

[As opposed to relying idly on the 'generosity' of the government, for instance. There is a lengthy pause as Dooku reads and memorizes not just the FAQ, but the linked history written by the Blue Beetle- and then doing the same with Thomas and Kate Bishop's notes linked on that resource. It's a long pause, is what I'm getting at here. But when it's over-]

The imPorts responsible for these works are to be commended. Together, they have produced a truly valuable resource. And yet I still have questions. To begin with, I must confess I don't recognize many of the references to the mythology of this planet.

audio;

[itistolaugh]

[ It takes Harley a good fifteen minutes to stop laughing at his name, and then she thinks about it again and sets herself off all over again. She's biting her lip to keep from giggling now. ]

Sorry, didn't quite catch your name. Could you repeat that?

audio;

[dun_moch]

[So here's the thing: in Dooku's world, no one ever laughs at his name. Not only that, but for most of the Galaxy's teeming masses, the thought would never occur that a name like 'Dooku' might be hilarious. This is partly because this is the universe that produced such gems of nomenclature as 'Whie' or 'Sheev', but mainly because the name of 'Dooku' has been popularly associated with nobility, integrity, and dignity for many generations.

All of which is to say that Dooku suspects not his peril when he responds:]

I beg your pardon, m'lady. I introduced myself as Count Dooku.

[Voice]

[thegriffinofdeath]

[A count, hmm. Perhaps someone from a world as backwards as her own...how wrong she is.]

You're free to seek other employment, there's no requirement to remain where they left you. I never even went to the job I was...assigned.

Although I feel I should tell you, your title may not do very much here, Count. I know mine hasn't been.

[Voice]

[dun_moch]

[Oh good, someone else who knows what it's like to have one's title and importance disregarded by slack-jawed pre-spaceflight primitives.]

I thank you for your information, madame. Might I know what title you bear that has been so callously disregarded?

voice

[quaerit]

[ Jesus actual Christ, Count Dooku. Gansey's better judgment should really lead him to avoid this post.

But if he could indulge just for a moment... ]

I'm not certain there are any jobs on offer which would cater to your title, Count. I believe the government does provide help in finding alternatives, so long as you're registered.

voice

[dun_moch]

I sense that you are right. This planet has little value for nobility, it seems.

I understand that Registration conveys many benefits to those who agree. I wonder what treatment is received by those who dissent. Tell me, do you know how many imPorts reject the government's Registration?

video.

[glowsferatu]

[ The voice of the young woman who answers is no less space-British, but the face? Well, grey skin, horns, fangs, she's definitely alien. Welcome to Earth, stranger. ]

Well, there are generally plenty of options for employment for an enterprising new arrival. Though is...music [ If metal can be called that. ] isn't befitting you, I'm sure you'll be able to find something that is.

What sort of job would you prefer?

video.

[dun_moch]

[Kanaya is the first obviously not-human imPort Dooku has seen. On the surface, he greets her with the same courtesy as he does anyone else, with a smile and a nod of the head.]

My career has been in politics these last few years, madame. I have certain skills in diplomacy and negotiation which could be quite valuable to this planet, especially on a world at the brink of war. Which I understand is the case between this nation and its rivals.

[A deplorable state of affairs. In Dooku's Galaxy, intra-planetary divisions and wars are rare, a hallmark of less civilized societies.]

[video]

[lightandglory]

A pleasure, Lord Count! I am none other than Princess L'Arachel of the sacred theocracy of Rausten.

[There's just a little bit of emphasis on the word 'princess'. A little bit of 'oh gee look at that I outrank you' emphasis. Still, her smile is nothing but friendly and cheerful.]

Oh, but you would make such a splendid singer! I'm afraid I don't know what a 'metal' band entails, but if the style of verse is not to your liking, simply change it!

[video]

[dun_moch]

The pleasure- and the honour- is entirely mine, Your Highness.

[And the Count bows courteously at the waist, hand across his belly. He is perfectly willing to overlook the implicit emphasis on rank to meet someone else who understands the travails of displaced nobility.]

You make a fine suggestion, and I am warmed by your praise. [He is totally proud of his voice.] If I cannot arrange a more suitable employment, perhaps it would be better to simply make this troupe better suited to my own talents. From what I have learned, their verse could certainly do with some improvement.

[ Video ]

[enucleation]

You can choose whatever employment you find best for you. As imPorts, we always have it easier when finding something.


What is the Confederacy of Independent Systems?

[ Video ]

[dun_moch]

That is good to hear. I hardly had the time to prepare for job applications before I was snatched here.

[The Count smiles a little, but while his words may be light, his resentment is real.]

The Confederacy is a new galactic power where I am from: an independence movement building a better future, which I have the privilege of leading.

[resipiscent]

[He wasn't really considering answering this guy, but his voice is... familiar, somehow, though he doesn't recognize the man himself.]

I left the job they gave me maybe a week in. I'm self-employed, but it's probably pretty easy to get a different job as an imPort.

[dun_moch]

You are to be congratulated on your initiative, then. Not everyone can find the strength to strike out on a new path. Tell me, what employment did you succeed in making for yourself?

voice

[kendo_taisho]

[Yeah, the guy sounds too old proper to sing in a metal band. This isn't the first time Heiji's seen the porter have a weird sense of humor when it comes to jobs. His own first job last year included.]

That depends on what yer lookin' to do, and whether or not yer gonna register. [Which, by the inflection on the term 'gracious'? Heiji highly doubts.]

voice

[dun_moch]

[That accent. The dropped consononts, the distorted 'r's- it is like sandpaper on the Count's refined ears. But his distaste doesn't show through in his voice. He has spent more than three years dealing with the likes of Nute Gunray and General Grievous while leading the Separatist cause- he can manage this.]

I have been informed by Ambassador Urquhart that Registration costs little and grants much. I believe I will cooperate with this government as I adjust to these unique circumstances.

[The 'for now' is left unspoken.]

voice

[glitchinthesystem]

[ God, this guy sounds preachy...and stuck up. He's trying really hard not to snort at this but man is it hard. ]

That sounds like a name a vampire would have in a really bad horror book.

voice

[dun_moch]

[More impudence regarding his name. Unacceptable.]

I am afraid I am from a Galaxy without these 'vampires' you speak of, just as you are apparently from a world without manners. I cannot comment on what my name sounds like to you, but I can tell you that the books which have been written of 'Dooku' belong in the genres of history, art and politics. Not... horror.

[marriedmedium]

But you're an entertainer, darling! Why would you want to abandon all those smiling faces waiting for your latest gig? But if you insist, you could always try becoming a bartender. That's important work and well in demand.

[dun_moch]

A bartender. Really, now.

[The Count's voice is as dry as Sadie's martinis.]

If that is my main alternative, then I would much rather reconsider singing for those smiling faces.

[orions_shadow]

So basically you say you don't like your job and you want a new one?

What's the confederacy of independent systems?

[dun_moch]

That is essentially so, yes. But I have many other questions beyond my issues with my assigned employment.

The Confederacy is a new galactic state in my own world, formed from an independence movement I have the honour to lead. We are creating a better and freer future for our members. I was most displeased to be taken away from my important duties by this... Porter.

video;

[bassriff]

[blah blah boomy voiced dude, nobility, hammy junk--wait]

Wait, they just gave you your band? [WHAT THE HECK SHE HAD TO PUT HER OWN TOGETHER]

video;

[dun_moch]

[Oh great joy, a teenager who is most definitely not infinitely older than Dooku himself. He smiles politely, if a little thinly.]

Indeed they did. You are now addressing the appointed singer of... Sulfur Mustard.

[The Count scowls just saying the name.]

Apparently we play 'symphonic power metal.' A term I am currently unfamiliar with.

voice

[rathercommon]

[ Politely enough: ]

What sorts of skills do you have?

voice

[dun_moch]

[Also polite:]

I possess many abilities. Political leadership, military strategy, interspecies diplomacy, and galactic finance, to begin with. All quite impressive in my own Galaxy, but perhaps less so in the... 'United States.'

[This wretched planet doesn't even have an interstellar trading network to leverage connections through. Or spaceflight, for that matter. It is intolerable.]

[ Video ]

[crapbearer]

Seriously? They assigned you to a metal band? Weak. Wish I'd gotten a job like that.

[ Max, your voice hasn't even cracked yet. ]

I've picked up bits of everything now and then since I've been here. Anything you wanna know that hasn't already been covered?

[ Video ]

[dun_moch]

[Another child. Dooku senses yet more impudence in his near future, and sighs slightly.]

Well to begin with, perhaps you could tell me whether many people your age listen to... metal bands.

[If he is going to end up playing to crowds of teens and pre-teens, he is just completely kriffing out. Forget it, sayonara, gone, dot on the horizon.]