"Of course the pleasure is yours." Despite the shine of her mask, the collected troops could feel the weight of Darth Oratrix's gaze as she overlooked the assembly. "Well done on such short notice, Moff Jerjerrod." She walked gracefully, flanking the Moff on Vader's opposite side as they walked inside.

"You may dispense with the pleasantries, Commander. We're here to put you back on schedule."

Jerjerrod swallowed heavily. "I assure you my lords, my men are working as fast as they can."

"Perhaps I can find new ways to motivate them." Vader sounded unimpressed.

"I tell you, this station will be operational as planned."

"The Emperor does not share your optimistic appraisal of the situation." 

Jerjerrod floundered, clearly searching for words. 

Oratrix hummed mildly, a melodic thinking noise. "If I may, Lord Vader. An honor guard in less than ten minutes warning time. Pressed and polished-" She paused midsentence, stepping  toward one of the soldiers in line. The man in imperial black froze, like a prey animal. Oratrix scrutinized him from behind the mask, then delicately reached out to adjust one of the medals on his chest. Straightening it minutely. "... better."

Without any acknowledgement that she'd likely given the soldier an impromptu stress test, she rejoined the other two.

"Organized as they should be. Clearly, the problem is not with his leadership or delegation." Oratrix turned her face to the Commander. "So that leaves... resources." One ruby gloved finger touched her chin. "Correct?"

Emboldened and terrified, he spoke the truth. "The Emperor asks the impossible. I need more men." 

Oratrix shifted, as if to speak. But Vader was quicker. "Then perhaps you can tell him when he arrives." 

"The Emperor is coming here?"

"That is correct, Commander. And he is most displeased with your apparent lack of progress."

Oratrix interjected, as smooth as a knife between the ribs. "As we did not bring more troops, we will make the best of what we do have. Increased rations across the board. Extra protein, double the caf for the welding staff and their direct superiors. Those who elevate themselves shall be rewarded in kind. Those who do not... will bear the consequences that their efforts win them."

She watched the gears spin behind the Commander's eyes. Watched the twin seeds of praise and punishment take root. "We shall double our efforts." 

Stepping back, she let Lord Vader have the last word. "I hope so Commander, for your sake. The Emperor is not as forgiving as I am." He spun on his heel and walked away. Oratrix followed. Silently, Vader turned to her.

"Extra rations, Lady Oratrix?"

"We have given them the opportunity to shine, and rewarded them for their candor. The news will travel, and productivity will rise. Not to mention, word of the Empire's benevolence and generosity. So many planets out there, bursting with people that would gladly join were it worth their sweat and blood. That should lead to a rise in volunatary recruitment, thereby adjusting the resource issue. You see, my Lord?" She watched the lights dance in the gleaming reflection of the floor. Soldiers scattering to fulfill orders. Like insects on carrion, desperate for the largest piece. "Sugar."