The key to mastering first impressions lies in your awareness of the many factors that color one's judgment: Posture, eye contact, body language, physical appearance, diction… all these minute elements play an important role in shaping perception. But beyond those aspects are a set of even more significant ones that you cannot control: external elements such as the weather, the mood of the observer, and perhaps most importantly the prior experiences of the observer.
My work as a Senator taught me very quickly that it's crucial to always keep these factors in mind when observing and forming opinions of others, but it is equally imperative to recognize and control them as much as possible when you are the one being assessed.
Kenzo Nui forced himself into Riyo's life against her own wishes, and quickly became the best thing that ever happened in her career. A fresh University student, he turned up at her front desk to speak with her about an internship opportunity years ago. She didn't have an opening for an intern at the time, but he more or less refused to leave until she at least spoke with him in person. She was unimpressed by the gesture and, prior to going to the front office to meet him, resolved to inform him she would never allow someone to work for her who insisted on wasting her time in such a manner.
The boy — not even two decades old at the time — completely overturned her expectations. He quickly apologized for wasting her time and thanked her for giving him a few moments, then launched into his pitch: he was a strong proponent of diplomacy, and had a deep desire to do work that would improve the lives of everyday Pantorans. He was polite, and extremely well worded, but never came across as a sycophant. He wasn't there because he wanted to get into politics. He was there because he wanted to do good for the Pantoran people, and he believed they shared a similar vision for how that could be achieved.
It may have also helped his case that he was from the same area of Pantora where she was raised.
As it turned out, that unusual mix of stubbornness and charm was exactly what made him such a magnificent assistant. He became an irreplaceable resource, her right hand in every significant action she made in the years since they began working together. He understood her vision, and after years of training he knew her connections sometimes better than she did. He was well-spoken and tasteful, but his stubborn streak proved useful as well — if she assigned him a task, he wouldn't let anything stand in his way.
The only part of her work that Kenzo was entirely uninvolved in was her alliance with the Rebel cell. She pondered the potential many times — with his resourceful ways and hard-headed determination, he would be an extraordinary addition to the Rebellion. But she would never make the mistake of even asking because he would see it as nothing less than a gross personal violation. Kenzo had a painful history with Rebels and a strict code against aggression of any sort. He was a pacifist to his core, and his heart was entirely dedicated to helping the people of Pantora. Talking to him about the possibility would simply be wrong. She took care of that portion of her obligations privately, unknown to even him.
Kenzo spent most of his time on Coruscant with her, but they were both happy when opportunities arose for them to return to Pantora, even if it was only for a small amount of time. She preferred her office on Pantora to the one on Coruscant, if nothing else for the view. It sat on the top floor of a tall building in the capital, with walls of glass giving way to a spectacular view of the city, like a constant reminder of what she worked for.
Her private office was sectioned off by century-old, ceiling-height doors, adorned with metalwork from one of Pantora's finest artisans. A reception area was immediately outside the doors, with guest seating and a beautifully crafted desk that Kenzo insisted on claiming as his own. She offered to hire a receptionist so he could use a private office, as he did on Coruscant, but he insisted that while at home he wanted to sit in the reception area, where he could greet any visitors himself. She was reluctant to allow it, but their visits here were usually so brief it never became a disturbance to his work.
They began each morning with the same routine: a brief meeting in her office to talk through any upcoming events and outstanding projects.
"… and Senator Vinorall's birthday is next week…"
She winced. "That's right. Do you remember how awful he was when I forgot last year? He threatened to raise tariffs on Pantoran goods just because I forgot to send him a gift."
"I do remember that, and that's why you've already sent him a generous gift with a heartfelt note."
He had developed an eerie ability to know what she needed before she even knew she needed it. "Thank you. What did you send him?"
"Breath fresheners."
She nearly choked on her morning tea. "You didn't really, did you?"
He didn't look up from the datapad, trying to keep his small grin hidden. "Of course not, he's getting a nice bottle of wine."
"I was a little afraid you might be attempting to instigate a trade war..."
Kenzo moved on with the agenda, still entertained by his own joke. "That brings us to the main event of the day: the Imperial Navy's ship is due to arrive this morning. If there's anything you need to help further prepare let me know."
"I don't know that there's much to do prior to their arrival. I'm still not sure what to expect. The only information I have is that their leader to be a well-mannered iceman."
His eyebrows pinched together. "What's that supposed to mean?"
"Your guess is as good as mine, Kenzo. You'll let me know when he's here?"
"I will, but… you don't plan to greet him when he lands like you do with most visitors?"
"Certainly not." She sat back in her chair, crossing her arms. This was a prime learning opportunity for Kenzo. They'd never run into a situation like this before, so it was important he learned how they could control the situation from the start. "They need to understand if they're going to be here against our wishes, they will have to operate on our terms. So yes, I am making him come to me."
"That sounds reasonable. I'll let you know when he arrives." Kenzo stood from his seat, making his way to the tall double doors.
She busied herself working through a few bills the Senate would soon vote on, making notes on important content and questionable items. A few hours later a message appeared on her screen:
K: Admiral Thrawn is here to see you, along with his assistant.
He was perfectly on time, down to the minute. She shouldn't have expected anything different from an Admiral.
Her mind had run wild over the past few days trying to piece together what to expect of the man. What sort of non-human did it take to achieve a rank of such significance in the Imperial Navy? It certainly can't have been an easy feat; he must be exceptional, by Imperial standards at least. He would have to exemplify everything the Empire loved in its military: ruthlessness, aggression, egotism... But Yularen's liking of him was a major inconsistency. He generally wasn't fond of hyper-aggressive tactics. And Roig explicitly mentioned he was well-mannered. None of it added up.
Overwhelmed with curiosity, she responded:
R: What is he like?
Kenzo's reply didn't come quickly — his responses rarely did. He was always careful with his words, picking through his vocabulary to find the precise phrase to convey his meaning. When it did finally appear on her screen, it was just one word:
K: Glacial.
Evidently, she would have to draw her own conclusions.
R: Tell him I'm preoccupied, I'll let you know when to bring them in.
After years of trial and error, she learned presentation was one of the most important factors in dealing with powerful people. If you slipped up — spoke too quickly or quietly, had a messy desk or an unassuming office — it was seen as a sign of weakness. A vicious person would exploit any venerability they found. Her message needed to be explicitly clear: she was the one who held power in this situation. If he and his crew respected that she would find time in her schedule to help them with whatever they needed.
She finished the last section of the bill she was reading through and took her time tidying her desk — neat but not too neat, enough to make it clear she was excessively busy and the military presence was yet another thing she had to deal with. When she felt they had waited long enough, she messaged Kenzo to bring them in.
As the doors swung open she stood from her desk — not out of respect, but because sitting was a formality reserved for respected people who she wanted to welcome.
Kenzo entered, followed by a man who she would have mistaken for Pantoran if it weren't for his eyes. They were red, glowing brilliantly against his blue skin. He walked with impeccable posture, his neck stiff and proud. His shoulders were broad, clearly built from years of physical training, and he stood even taller than Kenzo. He turned his head slightly, observing his surroundings as he walked into the office. If it weren't for the turn, she wouldn't have been able to tell where exactly he looked. He didn't have any pupils.
Glacial. The description made sense now that he stood in front of her, towering over her like a wall of ice she had to somehow overcome.
He was accompanied by a young human, with tawny skin and brown hair. The contrast between the two was comically drastic; while his assistant kept similarly good posture, he wasn't nearly as stoic — the corners of his mouth were turned downward.
Kenzo stopped short of her desk and motioned to her, "Gentlemen, this is Senator Riyo Chuchi of Pantora."
The Admiral bowed his head, speaking in a quiet, even tone, with an accent foreign to her. "It is a pleasure to meet you Senator Riyo Chuchi. I am Admiral Mitth'raw'nuruodo, though you may call me Thrawn if you prefer." He motioned to the young man, "This is Commander Vanto, my Aide-de-camp. I received word from Colonel Yularen I should meet with you upon our arrival."
The Commander smiled stiffly, standing slightly back from their conversation. In spite of his obviously poor attitude, he was at least well trained enough to know his place in this conversation.
"Kenzo, would you mind staying in the event there's anything I need you to assist these two with?" She doubted she would actually need him for anything, but it was another learning opportunity for him and she appreciated his input in these matters. Sometimes he picked up on things she missed.
She stepped around her desk, toward the intruder with measured confidence. "Admiral Thrawn, I appreciate you taking the time to visit me. As I understand, your Star Destroyer will be temporarily stationed in Pantoran space while you attend to an issue on a nearby planet."
"That is correct, Senator. Given Pantora's ample amenities, it was seen as a suitable location for us to remain stationed while we work to establish the nearby project."
She stepped closer to him, mirroring his posture with her hands clasped behind her back. He stood nearly a head taller than her, but she wasn't about to give him the impression she was intimidated. "I think when it comes to these matters open and honest communication is key. Pantora is a peaceful moon. Our people value diplomacy and non-aggression. We have not seen any outside military presence in many, many years, so your presence will inevitably cause distress among my people. I need to assure them with the utmost certainty this is strictly a temporary arrangement and that your forces will be removed from our home in a timely manner."
He waited for her to finish, giving a slight pause before responding. "Your concern is understood. You can assure the people of Pantora we will be gone once the matter on Orto Plutonia has been resolved."
"What business does the Empire have on Orto Plutonia?" Of course, nobody had mentioned the details of the mission to her.
"The Empire requires metal resources found on the planet. The intention is to begin a mining operation in a northern location, however as I understand there is a native species which presents a problem for these plans to move forward."
Her head spun. How had this not been communicated to her? "The Talz, yes I'm certain they do present a problem. They aren't just a native species; they're a population of sentient beings. You're invading their home. They have every right to present a problem for you."
His head tilted to the side. "I'm afraid I don't understand-"
"By setting up a mining operation on Orto Plutonia, the Empire is effectively invading a planet ruled by independent beings. This isn't simply mining for resources, this is conquest."
"Yes, I do understand that is your view of the situation. However, our desire is not to conquer the planet, it is to utilize the otherwise untapped resources these people have no use for. What I do not understand is your concern for the planet and its inhabitants. Do you represent them as well?"
"They are my neighbors, and they've been given no voice in this matter. It would be an atrocity for me to say nothing. What are your intentions with these people?"
"I have orders to ensure the Talz will not interfere with the operation the Empire means to build."
"By any means necessary?"
The room fell into a short silence before he responded in a firm tone. "Indeed."
She let the implication hang in the air long enough that everyone in the room should have been uncomfortable. "This, I hope you understand, is an obscenity. For a power as comprehensive as the Empire to invade a planet for metal is simply abhorrent."
Much to her surprise, he stepped past her to the window to look out over the capital city. It was winter, with an appropriate snowstorm turning the city to a blur of white. "Senator, you misunderstand my intentions. I do not advocate for the use of excessive force. However, the Empire requires the resources found on Orto Plutonia and will obtain them. It is my duty to ensure those resources can be collected efficiently and effectively."
She kept her eyes locked on him. "And if that means exterminating an entire race of people?"
"That is not my intention. I would never advocate such force unless it was absolutely necessary, and it rarely is. My objective is to fulfill my duties in the most efficient manner possible in order to promote the safety and stability of the galaxy as a whole."
Rarely. She didn't like that word.
He glanced over his shoulder at her, and said in the most cordial manner, "Your homeworld is quite beautiful, Senator. You have a spectacular view from your office."
The comment sent chills down her spine. She returned to the seat behind her desk, hoping he would get the message — this conversation was over. She couldn't stand to see him look over her home any longer, like a predator assessing his next target.
"It seems you have a great deal of work to take care of, as do I. Kenzo will see you out. I expect you'll remember this conversation and keep your crew under control for the duration of your presence here."
"Your expectations will be exceeded."
"If you have any concerns bring them to Kenzo. He will relay them to me when I'm available." There was no reason for him to think he had any right to contact her directly.
"Understood. It was a pleasure to meet you, Senator." He bowed once more and made his way out of the room, his assistant trailing after him.
She didn't bother responding. The sentiment was not mutual.
Kenzo saw them out, and returned to her side after the two exited the front office.
Riyo tapped her fingers on her desk. "I have a bad feeling about this. We need to keep a close eye on the Admiral. Cancel our arrangements to return to Coruscant, we're staying here to make sure he and his crew behave themselves."
Eli was surprised to find Pantora was extremely metropolitan and wealthy, despite its location deep within the Outer Rim and vast population of non-humans. As they walked from their small ship into the tall, gold-patterned building the Senator's office was in, he couldn't help a foreboding sense of dread. The capital city reminded him of Coruscant. Places like this always saddled them with loads of red tape, regulatory inspections, and bureaucratic nonsense.
Of course, the Senator's office was on the top floor of the building. As they neared the ornate double doors to her office, one swung open and a kind looking middle aged Pantoran woman with white hair and simple clothing stepped out, trying to hide her face. She was crying.
Looking back on it, he should have realized that was the warning sign that the entire meeting was doomed. They were not about to speak with kind people.
Thrawn was likely having fun analyzing the doors and didn't notice the woman's distress. If they weren't on official business Eli would have stopped to ask her if she was okay.
The Senator's office was as extravagant as he expected. There was a window to the side, looking out over the snow-blown city and two more giant, decorative doors on the wall opposite. The floor looked like it was tiled with expensive stone, and a massive reception desk sat before them that probably cost several times more than what Eli made in a year.
The sole person present was a younger Pantoran man, wearing a ridiculously ornate jacket with all kinds of stitching and far more buttons than was actually needed. His striking pink hair was brushed back neatly, and he had unique gold markings on his forehead and chin. He must have been the one to make the poor woman cry because he was rubbing his temples and looking annoyed when they first walked in.
The man — Kenzo Nui, according to the brief introduction he granted them - took their names and let them both know the Senator "would be with them shortly" before returning to some sort of work on his datapad.
He made them sit and wait, as though neither he or Thrawn had better things to do with their time. Eli couldn't fathom anything the Senator might be working on that would be more important than meeting with the Admiral who was about to spend a good deal of time near her home.
Needless to say, she was just as rude as he expected when she finally did have time to see them. The information about her that he gathered for Thrawn proved her reputation for being outspoken was well earned, but he didn't expect her to have the gall to stand there and order Thrawn around like she had any authority over either of them. The whole experience bordered on unbelievable.
Eli waited until they were safely secluded in the elevator after the disaster of a meeting before speaking with Thrawn. "That was… interesting."
"It was. The Senator is just as intriguing as your research indicated."
Intriguing. That was a very polite way of putting it. Despite serving under him for many years, Eli still struggled to place exactly what his superior thought at times. Thrawn had spent hours looking over the volumes of information Eli found on the Senator, and emerged from his cabin set on getting the woman to assist them with their mission. He claimed he was "interested" in her supposed diplomatic talents. As far as Eli could figure, they didn't actually need her assistance to complete the mission, Thrawn was just curious about her and wanted to see her in action.
"I hate to break it to you, but I don't think you're going to get her help with the Talz."
Thrawn, as usual, was unaffected by the Senator's lack of hospitality. "This would have been a very bad time to ask. She's unhappy with our presence here, she doesn't trust us." A small smile flickered onto his face as the elevator door opened to let them out. "The Senator merely needs some time to adjust to our presence. I have no doubt she will agree to help us when the full situation becomes clear to her."
