Flashpoints are moderate length phased activities that require 1-4 players, and generally take around 30 minutes to complete. Every flashpoint has at least some story component, with the earlier flashpoints such as Athiss or Mandalorian Raiders having a brief conversation before and after the flashpoint if you pick up the mission from the terminal on your faction's dropship launch hanger. Later flashpoints like False Emperor or Battle of Rishi are much more story driven.