A Grand Soiree

[Marzena Vaas]

The Grand Theatre in Cloud City was bustling with a renewed energy, tonight marked a momentous occasion indeed. With the opera house having recently come into the ownership of the First Artists Guild, their opera company had been working swiftly to create a new and impressive season of performances. The lineup this year would surely attract attention from the surrounding planets, but the Director of the Grand Theatre recognized that this was not enough. A month prior, he had sent out a number of VIP invitations to notable members of high society. These special guests would be treated to a lavish and exclusive party after the show; even the Diva Anastasiya Vicuska would be in attendance to greet them. In addition to their invited guests, patron members would be present, and Marzena Choi would be making an appearance as well. The celebrity had been instrumental in the re-opening of Grand Theatre, and she was currently the only Premier Benefactor to date.

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A burst of cool night air swept into the foyer of the Grand Theatre as they opened the doors, the lavish stairway that lead into the auditorium was decorated to celebrate the evening's event. As the crowd began to assemble at the foot of the stairs, Marzena Choi began to descend, holding gently onto the arm of the Grand Theatre's director. Her dark gaze settled on the esteemed guests, it was so very nice to see everyone dressed in their finery. It was one reason she so loved the opera, it was one of the few occasions in life that still required everyone to enter looking their best. She often felt that more establishments should follow suit and turn people away if their attire is not appropriate.

Tonight she was dressed in a long black evening gown, along with gloves that came to the elbow. While her dress may have appeared demure from the front, it featured a back that swept quite low, but tastefully so. To keep her emsemble from appearing ordinary, she had chosen to wear a jeweled necklace that glinted in the lights of the hall. Her long, dark hair was styled in gentle waves that cascaded down her back, it was a style she pulled off effortlessly. Marzena had ensured that her complexion glowed this evening, and her eyes had been made up to look a bit dark and smoky.

The Director brought her to the podium set before the stairs, and a graceful smile grew onto her red lips.

"I would like to thank everyone for joining us to celebrate the newfound glory of the Grand Theatre." Marzena spoke into the microphone. "Tonight we will be privileged to enjoy a performance by Diva Anastasiya, she has chosen a lovely aria to share. Afterwards, the First Artists Guild will be hosting a fabulous cocktail reception here in the grand foyer."

Marzena offered a polite bow to the guests and then stepped aside so they could begin making their way into the auditorium for the show. She felt a tug at her elbow and turned to see the Director standing next to her.

"Yes, Dimitri?" She asked, casting him a friendly smile.

"Marzena, we have arranged for you to entertain [member="Baroness Magrath"] for the evening. Please make a good impression on our behalf." He smiled, motioning for her to wait next to the stairs for her company to approach.

She knew nothing about the woman she would be joining for tonight's event, but based on her title, she was guessing that she held a certain amount of notoriety and power. Nevertheless, she hoped the evening would be a smashing success, as it was always nice to have friends in high places.

 

[Baroness Magrath]

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The cool air washed over what skin was permitted to be bared to the galaxy, the woman allowing a soft smirk to cross her lips as she stood upon the landing pad that her shuttle was calling home for the moment on Cloud City. Carefully she ran her hands along the hem of the hooded cloak, pulling it over her head to keep her black locks from flowing haphazardly in the wind. Her dress was not indicative of nobility, though it was a showing of her own personality and style. Even though it looked as something that a simple harlot would wear on a street corner of some far off world; the very fact that she wore it with such grace and carried herself with such style and confidence caused it to have an air of nobility. Her cosmetics applied with a steady hand added to the air of her being as she stepped forward.

Of course she was not alone, for what nobility didn't travel with a retinue, or at least a small personal guard? No less than nine accompanied the woman, at her side stood her oldest friend; the Colonel whom had put his own life on the line to ensure the woman's safety numerous times. If it were left to her she would only have two with her, no more than four; though it was at his behest and her bowing to his decision that saw her arrive under the protection of a squad from the Fenrir Guard. Their own movements were like that of a direwolf, stalking slowly and carrying themselves with dignity and an air of danger. The soft smirk that slipped across her lips grew as she moved in step with the guards, watching as those along the way slipped back or could do nothing more than stand and stare at the sight that came across their view.

Violet hues fell upon the Opera House, and a soft sigh escaped her lips as she took a moment to admire the structure. She was more interested in the building itself than she was with what was being held within. For a noble she found such things as Operas and Soirees as being tedious affairs, and even the Magrath Estate hadn't been graced with a ball in a long time; though after tonight it was likely to change. Taking another moment to center herself and smooth out the silk fabric of her clothing, she pulled the hood forward a bit more, hiding her face and shielding her from the cool air as she seemed to glide up the steps. Of course the thunderous march of boots upon the steps followed with her and they announced her before any such vocalization was needed.

The woman had, for a rather desirable reason, waited longer than needed; a means to ensure that the foyer itself would be devoid of individuals to come groveling to the noble woman, or to bother her with needless pleasantries. It was the woman waiting though that caught her eye first, and without a single word, nor true acknowledgement of her being there, the Baroness strode forward. Hands pushing the hood of her cloak back as her shoulders shrugged the fabric from her figure. One of the armored guards was already behind her to take the cloak, carefully folding it and remanding it into a bag were it would remain until it was called for.

"You must be [member="Marzena Choi"]."

Her voice slipped across the air, dancing softly upon the night as she smiled. It was with a careful grace that she began to slip the leather gloves from her hands, folding them and tucking them away into a small pocket within her high-thighed boots. Extending her hand to the young woman before her, though she carefully took the woman's in her own. Permitting a soft bow of her head before kissing the back of the woman's hand and watching it slip from her grasp. After all, she always had an eye for the fairer sex and found them to be easier to deal with than the bull headed males that attempted to surround her. There was only one in her life that she seemed to offer any heed towards or bend an ear to and he was standing behind her, the Colonel that was carefully watching the surroundings.

"Please excuse my retinue. The Colonel felt that my protection was of the utmost importance and whilst I would have preferred to travel with no more than two, he deemed it necessary to come with a squad."

She offered a soft smile to the woman before her, not wanting to cause her and undue duress at the sight of the armed individuals. The Baroness offered another soft bow of her head, though did not drop any lower beyond.

"Where are my manners though, walking into this Opera looking out of place. I am the Baroness Magrath."

 

[Marzena Vaas]

Marzena remained next to the staircase, almost becoming a fixture there, like a lovely marble statue. As the guests continued to pour through the doors, she did her part to greet her fellow members of high society. Many were welcomed by her bright smile, the gentle shake of her gloved hand, and perhaps even a friendly half-hug. Turning for a moment, she watched as the sea of black tuxedos and the elegant gowns made their way up the stairs and on towards the Auditorium. Her slender hand came to rest gently upon her hip, though Marzena easily fell victim to becoming impatient, tonight she was content to wait. There was a pleasant, but nonchalant expression on her face, making her appear like a cool side of satin.

However, she did not have to wait much longer. Marzena’s head turned in the direction of the door once more, the sound of boots heralded the arrival of a woman and her retinue. The few party-goers that still took up space by the door moved aside to let the woman and her armed men pass by. Important people were in no short supply in Cloud City, but it was still quite rare to see any of them travel about the streets with guards. However, Marzena was not a stranger to having her own retinue at her heels. She felt safe enough on Bespin to walk about at her leisure, but whenever she traveled off world, her men always followed close behind.

The pop star's gaze narrowed ever so slightly, her head tilted to the side as if in thought. She had a sharp eye for fashion, and she took a moment to appraise the new arrival's sense of style. It was not very often that people wore leather accessories to the Opera, or clothing that was clearly not meant to be evening attire for that matter. But there was something about this woman's presence that was undaunted by this and perhaps even took a bit of pride in that fact. Marzena mused that this woman could easily be turned away, but she held such a charisma and presence that made people look the other way, as if she fit in amongst the ball gowns without question. And she did approve of the skillful application of makeup.

Marzena stepped forward and nodded to confirm that the Baroness' assumption was correct.

"It is lovely to meet you, [member="Baroness Magrath"]," She offered her hand as well, not at all shocked by the way the Baroness placed a kiss on the back of her gloved hand. Marzena's hand had been kissed by more men than she could count, but this was the second woman to do so. She was not bothered at all and found it rather flattering, even if she preferred a more masculine presence.

"Please, follow me," Marzena smiled and lifted the hem of her dress off the floor as she began up the stairs. "You are in for a treat
tonight; I believe the Diva is almost ready to begin."

The two women were shown into a private booth with a lovely view of the stage, where there was currently a red velvet curtain drawn. Notes of music began to fill the air as the orchestra started their warm ups, there was still a little time left for small talk.

"Where are you traveling from tonight, Baroness?"

 

[Baroness Magrath]

Another gracious nod saw her head dip for a moment as she followed behind, her heels clicking against the stairs as the strode forth. Following behind her of course remained her retinue, the Colonel not permitting her out of his sight; nor had he in years. The pleasantries of the young woman about the opera were not lost upon her as she permitted a soft smirk to slip across her lip.

"I care not for the Diva, nor gatherings such as this. My late arrival is reflective of this, as too many a time are they covers for some nobility long since forgotten to come groveling or to attempt to secure some such marriage."

The Baroness spoke bluntly, for there was no reason to beat around the bush, at least not at that moment. Perhaps then a question would arise, and she could not blame a single soul whom decided to vocalize the words. What was she doing there if she cared not for the Opera? It was even a question that she was thinking herself, however that night had turned out to be better than she thought for she had been greeted by a young woman whom had captured her eyes; rather than some male that was little more than a statue of beauty without a personality. Of course during the small trip up the steps it was plain to see that the Baroness' eyes had drifted now and again to the backside of the woman before her, admiring the fabric of her gown and how it held the woman's figure.

"I must say though, you're a far better greeter than the last individual I came across in such a venue. At least you're not attempting to preen yourself and look into every shiny object you come across."

A soft chuckle slipped from her lips as she continued to follow, the sound of boot falls though not as thunderous; yet that did not mean that she was still not being followed. The hallway that lead to the private viewing box would feel a bit more crowded, as the Colonel and two men stepped to walk before the two women, whilst the others marched behind. A slow roll of her eyes was meant for the Colonel, and she knew he could easily tell what she was doing behind his back.

Carefully she slipped her arm into the crook of the other woman's, walking in pace with her towards the private box. She took in the young woman's scent, admiring her figure and beauty as they stepped towards their seats. Of course the Baroness offered the woman her seat first, before slipping down into her own. The Colonel settling in behind the two women as two guards remained within the box at the door. On the outer side though there would remain two, with the remaining four in pairs in the hallway.

"Avidon, it's a small system far in the outer reaches of the galaxy, hiding upon the Tingel Arm."

She spoke softly as she leaned back in her seat, slowly lifting one leg to cross it over the other, her hands coming to rest upon her knee. Her hues falling towards the stage, though only momentarily as she looked back to the woman sitting at her side.

[member="Marzena Choi"]

 

[Marzena Vaas]

Marzena had only raised an eyebrow when the Baroness mentioned that she did not care for these types of social gatherings, nor was she a fan of the Diva. While many nobles and high class citizens did use such events as opportunities to meet potential lovers, it seemed strange to think of a party being a cover for securing marriage. However, with her own family’s ways steeped in the tradition of match making, she really should have known better. But it did leave her wondering why the Baroness Magrath had chosen to attend.

“Thank you for your kind words,” Marzena responded, feeling a bit embarrassed on the inside. Perhaps the Baroness’ opinion of her as a greeter would be different if she came to know her better. For Marzena did preen quite often and did fuss about her appearance when given the chance. And she did adore shiny things; they had always been a weakness. She joined in the other woman’s light chuckle, and made a mental note to keep her mirrored compact in her bag for the evening.

The sound of boots was accompanied by the clicking of high heels, as the two women made their way to the booth –now walking arm in arm. Marzena had seated herself with a smile to the Baroness, and listened as she responded to her question.

“Avidon?” She tilted her head slightly, “I see.” Marzena nodded, if it was a small system in the outer reaches, there was little chance that she would know it.

She sat back in her seat, her back poised and shoulders thrown back slightly, but not so much that she appeared stiff or ridged. A gloved hand reached up and smoothed down a few strands of wavy dark hair, and she let her hands fall to clasp in her lap. Her dark gaze shifted down towards the stage, where the velvet curtain was still in place. The performance was due to start, but she had a feeling that the Diva was backstage, likely making last minute complaints. While Anastasiya was very gifted, she was also very high maintenance.

“Well, even if you did not come for the opera, I do hope you enjoy the performance. It should be starting soon.” She said, a small apologetic smile appearing on her face.

And then, as if on cue, the music began to fill the auditorium and the lights became dim. The spotlight fell upon a lone figure in an elaborate gown, blonde locks were styled in a fancy up-do, and a voice carried out softly. The Diva’s voice came delicately at first, and then grew in strength, her years of training were readily apparent. Marzena listened with a smile, despite a tiny stab of envy, her own voice was well trained, but could not compare to the Diva’s skill.

[member="Baroness Magrath"]

 

[Baroness Magrath]

"Perhaps I will enjoy the performance, though that is still to come. So far I can say for the company that it has begun to be more enjoyable."

The Baroness permitted a soft smile to cross her lips as she looked towards the woman, once more taking a moment to admire her figure before she leaned back in her seat, closing her eyes for a moment. One might think she was preparing herself, though in truth she was taking a mental note, a picture of the woman next to her for her own, amusement later. Slowly her eyes fluttered open when she heard the instruments being tuned and the commotion of those below as they settled into their seats.

"Perhaps the night shall not end once we are finished here at the Opera."

As the phrase was worded, it was not as a question, more as a statement. If it could be helped, the Baroness seemed to show a desire to spend a bit more time with this woman. Even if in the end such views and desires were not reciprocated, then she would still at least have a small story to keep herself amused for later. She knew few though that had turned her down, and she was looking forward to the potential prospect of this woman slipping away.

To call it courting was the polite term, or rather what it would be called in the gentile society. For the Baroness it was more of a game, one of cat and mouse and for her, she wanted to see just how far it would go. After all, this woman had been the first female in a long while to greet the Baroness at such a function, and she was already showing a great deal of her personality, one that the Baroness could just as easily accept.

In that moment though he attention was pulled from her thoughts and onto the stage below. Her eyes falling upon the Diva that stepped out as the curtains were pulled aside. A slow roll of her eyes shown her interest in that woman and now all she did was wait for the singing to be over. However, she would easily agree that the orchestra was rather well trained.

[member="Marzena Choi"]

 

[Marzena Vaas]

It was becoming very clear to Marzena that the Baroness was not here for the music. And it seemed that her companion wanted to enjoy the night, even after the performance had ended. Marzena had offered a polite nod and a small smile to acknowledge the Baroness, but she did not answer, for the orchestra had started to play. It seemed that the Baroness would be in luck, for the Artists Guild was hosting a cocktail reception after the Diva’s aria. It was their goal for the evening to draw in those with an interest in promoting the Grand Theatre. Even if certain individuals, like the Baroness, were less interested in the Opera... it was still quite an honor to host such notable guests.

The performance carried on, and Marzena found her gaze wandering about the crowd. For the most part, the audience appeared to be pleased. There were a few that looked bored, or tired... perhaps the Opera was not for everyone. A smile grew on her face as the last notes of the song floated into the air, and she joined in the applause.

“Well, Anastasiya is quite the Diva,” she started, smiling. “But she is talented. I hope you will join me for the cocktail reception, shall we go down?”

Marzena stood gracefully from her seat and stepped aside at the end of the aisle to let the Baroness exit as well. Gloved hands smoothed down the front of her dress, making sure that there were no wrinkles or creases in her expensive satin. She turned her attention back to the raven-haired woman, and gestured back towards the stairs. By the time they would reach the foyer, she was sure that it would be filled with people – artists, nobles, the wealthy and powerful figures of Cloud City and beyond. There were some familiar faces in the crowd tonight, but there were many that she did not know.

“Would you care for some champagne?” She asked, playing her part as the gracious hostess.

[member="Baroness Magrath"]

 

[Baroness Magrath]

As the music began to die down and the final notes danced upon the dull air of the room, she permitted a soft sigh to escape her lips as those below began to clap and espouse the Diva's capabilities. For much of the performance though the woman had been focused upon something completely different. As she shifted in her seat, she watched her hostess slip from her seat and offer her a means to leave the small private booth. A soft smirk crossed her lips however as she rose her hand and snapped her fingers. The two guards that had remained stepped forward, closing the drapes around the private box before slipping through the door to permit the two women a moment of privacy.

The Baroness merely smirked, her eyes falling upon the woman whom she had kept her attention upon for much of the night. She figured she might as well make her intentions known then and there. No need to beat around the proverbial bush, especially if one was not use to such attention from the same sex. Slowly uncrossing her legs from each other, she pushed herself up out of her seat and stepped forward. Close to the stunning woman, her features being taken in by the Baroness' hues as they fell upon her face. A hand slowly came up, though not in a motion of anger or force; only for it to rest upon the woman's cheek.

"I was thinking something a bit more intimate my dear. Let the others mingle among themselves, I'm sure they won't miss us if we decided to remain and have a little... mhmm chat?"

Of course she knew just how gossipy that those nobles could be, and she always knew that where ever she went, those that knew of her always seemed to have something to whisper about her behind her back. Slowly her tongue ran along her own lips, the carefully painted and full muscles showing no sign of the lipstick smudging from such an action. The Baroness was clearly enamored with this woman and was going for broke. Her other hand came to rest upon her hip, drawing her in closer, just inches from one another.

"Of course we wouldn't want to miss all the gossip now would we?"

The Baroness smirked before brushing her lips upon the young woman's, not even a full kiss, just a taste. Then that smirk once more crossed her lips before she slipped away, her presence still linger as she slowly spun towards the door. Stopping just short and looking over her shoulder, her eyes seeming to flash in the dim light before stepping out into the hallway. The Baroness would remain outside of the door that lead to the private booth, taking a moment to permit the young woman to gather her thoughts.

Once the two came gliding down the hall, the guards still around her, the Baroness smirked before rolling her eyes. She could see how many of those that had gathered were eyeing her, like a vulture eyes a corpse. At least the Colonel and her own retinue would keep a good bulk of the people away unless she permitted them within the circle of heavily armed individuals. Smiling softly to the young woman, her hand brushed upon her arm.

"That would be lovely. I wouldn't mind a bit of Champagne. Though you don't need to get me drunk."

A soft smirk crossed her lips once more to point out the soft, prodding joke.

[member="Marzena Choi"]

 

[Marzena Vaas]

Marzena had looked up from straightening her gown, surprised to see that the two guards were stepping out of the booth, the drapes dropping closed behind them. Dark eyelashes fluttered, and she looked to the Baroness – the woman was advancing, her eyes locked on Marzena, and her lips curled into a smirk. She remained still as the Baroness’ hand rose to her cheek, and her brows rose slightly at the notion of something more...intimate. Oh dear.

There was a very familiar look in the other woman’s eyes, one that Marzena did recognize. She usually spotted this look on the faces of her adoring male fan base – not that this was the first time she had ever come across this situation with a member of the same sex. As she felt the Baroness place a hand on her hip, Marzena attempted to take a step backwards, but her back pressed up against a pillar. Before she could even step to the side, the Baroness was close, and brushing her lips against hers. This noble woman certainly was forward. Had a man tried that move, Marzena would have had no problem sending a sharp slap his way, but her hand stayed close to her side.

Marzena had opened her mouth to speak, but the Baroness had already begun to slip away, leaving her standing alone behind the curtains. She placed a hand to her lips, and she exhaled slowly as she stared at the red velvet. Had she given this woman the impression that she was looking for romance? While there were some that possibly would have considered Marzena a bit of a tease, she was not looking to string anyone along. The fact remained that she was already very involved with someone, and very happily so.

She would place her next steps carefully.

Delicate steps brought her out again, and she found herself next to the Baroness again, but this time they were surrounded by other party-goers. Marzena nodded slightly when the Baroness remarked that champagne would be nice, but she certainly did not have plans to get the other woman drunk... not that it seemed she would need to, had she truly been interested. She waved over to a waiter, and soon he was there to present the two women with lovely flutes of champagne.

“Are you a patron of the arts, Baroness?” Marzena asked, attempting to steer the subject into casual territory. “We have some wonderful museums here in Cloud City, you should see them before you return to Avidon.”

[member="Baroness Magrath"]