A Place to Drink, and be Merry [Iron Empire Gala](Invitation Required)

[Kay-Larr]

Kay had to laugh with [member="Veiere Arenais"] telling her that it was their job to step on eachother's toes and stumble. Well, as long as they were on equal footing, it was fine by her. She appreciated balance.

There were so many people here that she didn't know. That didn't surprise her though, really, being far from home. As Veiere led her to the dance floor, she spotted [member="Talos Rygat"] having an odd experience. Just what was he doing with those napkins? Force ghosts or something. Kay couldn't quite tell as she's never seen such behaviour before.

Veiere caught her attention again though as he turned to face her and got into position. Kay placed her right hand on his shoulder, her eyes solely on his as she held his hand. She did her best not to look at her feet while they moved with the other dancers. "I heard a saying once, if you can fight, you can dance....I am a clumsy fighter." In all fairness she tended to overthink things when she was in fight practice. Her reactions weren't quick enough. She realized that during a recent spar with [member="Macoda Haberon"] in the catacombs beneath the Palace.

This was lovely. No troubles, no worries, no stress. The only decisions to be made were in the heat of the moment. It gave her a glimpse of what their honeymoon could be like.

When the dance had finished, she felt a hand on her shoulder. She turned to see [member="Joshua DragonsFlame"] with a small boy. Kay blinked. She had no idea who he was. "I...I..." A small panic overtook her as she looked to Veiere for some help.

 

[Darth Vulcanus]

ISB was not entertained by the notion of the Grand Admiral attending a foreign gathering without a proper security detail. "assassination" they said, "it would be an ideal chance for a rebel cell to strike out at you" they had warned in between their suggestions for stealthily hidden weapons and undercover agents. Irridius was to have none of it. He understood the importance of these gathering on a level only a philosophical warrior could. To know one's enemy, you must understand their culture; regardless of how decadent it may be. His loathing of Mandalorians, for instance, stopped him not from investigating every facet of their mud slinging society. Understanding the enemy culture was the first step to understanding how they would react in war. The Iron Empire was a friend today but they could be any enemy tomorrow.

Furthermore, displays of one's class and social aptitude was a language of its own. Moving about without guard sometimes spoke louder to one's power than the alternative. Though his entourage of Death Troopers would be missed by those in charge of safeguarding his life, it was hardly worth the pontifical Grand Admiral's thought or time.

A glint of light bounced from the tip of his shined boot as he took his first step from the Delta-class shuttle he'd arrived in. Everything, from the tip of the shuttle to the last hair on Irridius' head, was flawlessly clean. He detested the standard uniform of the Grand Admirals of old and opted for his own spin on the matter, one he could keep pristine down to the last fiber. The white sparkled like glass, a thin film he had the exterior coated in to protect from disease and filth; while the black was dark enough to swallow the light of an entire sun. Of course, however, his uniform would be incomplete without the skin-tight infiltrator gloves he wore to protect from the everyday dangerous one faced from the less bathed around him.

Leaving the security personnel to their work with his flight crew, The Grand Admiral passed by [member="[/COLOR][/FONT][COLOR=#ffffff][FONT='courier new']Carlyle [/COLOR][/FONT][COLOR=#ffffff][FONT='courier new']Rausgeber"] ,[member="[/COLOR][/FONT][COLOR=#ffffff][FONT='courier new']Nina [/COLOR][/FONT][COLOR=#ffffff][FONT='courier new']Heavenshield"] , [member="Jacques"] , [member="Savitor Draay"] and [member="Bato Golden"] with a nod and a snake-oil smile. He made special note of Rausgeber, however and in his mind, he imagined what pleasure he would derive from stabbing the main in the throat where he stood. The First Order were pretenders to him and personally, he held nothing against the man himself. Pretenders simply could not be tolerated.

He smiled all the same.

Continuing onto the main floor, the Admiral took in the sight with both hands clasped tightly to the small of his back. It was an excellent gathering and the state of things was suitably immaculate for his liking. After a short gaze around the dancing few, the Grand Admiral's emerald eyes spotted [member="Zeradias Mant"] , a man he recognized from the files and reports he poured himself over. Another body he would enjoy alleviating of its blood, perhaps less-so than Rausgeber, but certainly above the usual amount of death he wished on most people. He was most interested in meeting him.

With that same, serpents grin the man tugged gently on each glove before gliding across the room at a moderate pace. Approaching with hands clasped behind back, Irridius extended a firm hand to the Iron Empire Admiral as soon as he was within arm's reach.

"Lucien E. Irridius" he sang with a slimy imperial roll of the 'R's, "quite charmed to make your acquaintance, Admiral Mant."

 

[Josh Dragovalor]

Kay's fear was clear, and it brought a puzzled expression to Josh's face, as he would stare at her a long moment. "I... Kay-Kay, I was joking..." He would manage to get out. "I know it's been a few years, but you can't have actually..."

No, it was clear. She was serious. He would frown, scratching his head as he suddenly seemed incredibly uncomfortable, and more then a little upset. Force... Sure, it'd been a few years, they had been busy, after all... But they'd spent so much time together. They'd been through so much. And everytime Kay had ended up in trouble, he'd been there. She was one of the few he'd learned to trust, and he'd been looking forward to seeing her again. And yet, now...

"Force sakes, save a friend from being assassinated and she forgets your name after some time away" He would mutter under his breath, barely audible, having to vent his frustration in some form. The uncomfortable silence seemed to scare Jason, who would let out a loud whine as he would hide behind his father's leg, grasping the pantleg and digging his fingers in tight as he would press his head into the fabric as though it would provide solace. Deciding that his son was more important then his own upset and, admittedly, a bit of heartbreak at his best friend not remembering him, he would let out a breath as he would kneel down to pick Jason up, coming back up to look back at Kay as he would run his hand through Jason's hair, trying to calm the child who would bury his face in his father's chest and begin to sob.

Letting out a sigh, it was clear all he could do was make the best of a bad situation. "My name is Josh DragonsFlame. We'd been friends for a good long time, but kind of lost contact at some point in the last two years."

Of course, Kay had stopped sending him messages when the Sith had gotten her. But he'd just figured she'd gotten busy. He tried his best to hide his irritation and hurt at all this, but he wasn't doing so as well as he would have liked.

This ALWAYS bloody happened! Most friends he made, they always turned on him, or cut contact when he was no longer an asset to them. They always seemed to use people...

He had just thought Kay was different.

"You... You really don't remember me? I... I thought...

... You -are- Lady Kay, right? Please forgive me if I'm wrong."

[member="Lady Kay"] - [member="Veiere Arenais"]

 

[Théodred Heavenshield]

A drink for them both would be a welcomed distraction and the Lady Baelor seemed to be settling somewhat now, Théo was grateful for that and no doubt she would also begin to enjoy the Gala as well. The bar was situation on the other side of the room, but there was many waiter circling the room to order from and he flagged one down. "Thank you my good man, I shall have a beer please", the insipid bubbly stuff did little for Théo's taste buds and once Lady Aster indication her choice of drink the waiter would bustle off.

"The attack on Voss was unfortunate indeed, and seemed to be without any form of provocation from the part of the Silver Jedi. How they even got so close ..", nothing of that attack made much sense. "It is a pity that you had to leave Voss and your training however", after all the Lady can't remain protected in cotton balls forever, especially after her kidnapping as well. "With permission from yourself, I would be happy to further your training if that is what you wish to continue to do". At the very least, he could help her be able to defend herself in trouble was to revisit her once more, he also understood that the Jedi life is not for everyone but that does not mean one can't train to use the force.

His eyes trailed off toward Nina once more, he wanted to make sure she was in good company and for now she seemed to be handling herself. The waiter returned with their order, Théo gathered both drinks and handed Lady Aster her choice, "To the Iron Empire, long may it serve to protect". And with that Théo took a long draft to settle his own nerves.

"Do you know anyone else here?", he asked as his eyes scanned the room once more, a part of him wishing a certain someone would walk in the room from the Silver Jedi, but as yet she had not appeared. "My sister Nina is here, and when the opportunity presents itself, I shall introduce you".

​

[member="Aster Rose Baelor"]​

 

[4ND-R0]

A red visor looked out into the gala's vast room. He was not entirely sure why he had been invited and requested to be here. The cyborg trooper, although more comfortable around the Iron Imperials, he was not sure they were entirely comfortable around him just yet. He did have to give credit where due, however. Their science team was able to effectively retrofit his life sustaining suit, giving it a more knight-like look. They had even proven to improve the respirator to be more quiet. He flexed his right arm, feeling how everything fit together. Yet he could feel the stares in his direction. He could understand, though. He was much different.

Yet, he heard a voice he had not heard since his defection. Admiral Rausgeber. The weasley little man from the upper crust of First Order society. It made his blood boil some. A reminder of his old life coming back to rear its head like viper. He had started to drop the usage of the operating number they assigned him as a cadet all those years ago. He had chosen the the designation "Dragos", a reference to the dragons of various, Galaxy wide mythology. Even had a stylized portrait of one adorning the almost silvery colored plastoid of his armor. Yet, he kept off to the side, watching everyone like a sentry.

At his hip was his trusted, new weapon. His vibro mace. Perhaps a bit much to bring to a party like this, but it was not so in his mind. Galas had a historical tendency to bring trouble makers of all sorts. He wanted to be armed and ready in case his new lords required a hand. He crossed his arms, keeping his position. He'd likely have to jump into the celebration sooner or later to become sociable. Some habits were hard to break.

 

[WolfMortum]

Veiere had up until now completely missed [member="Joshua DragonsFlame"] yet the other was soon pointed out as [member="Lady Kay"] broke away from their dance and addressed him with something akin to fear and uncertainty. Turning to face the man with a mix of curiosity yet too embarrassment for not having noticed him sooner, Veiere caught Joshua's question regarding the state of Kay and whether or not she truly was who he thought she was, Veiere spoke up with a gentle voice to be as reassuring to them both as he could do.

"This is the Kay you spoke to I'm sure, though..." He paused to glance to Kay Larr a moment, nodding to her subtly before turning back to that of Joshua, "There's been an incident, one that impaired her short term memory...-I'm sorry to tell you" He ended with a slight apology, offering a very meager half smile before turning back to Kay and placing a hand to her shoulder. He didn't go into details, it was her place to tell the story in whatever detail whether truthful or otherwise she would decide.

"I'm going to give you both a moment to catch up, this could be good for you" He spoke softly to Kay, turning his attention to the others of the room and adding, "Besides, I'm sure there's a good variety of people here that are just dying to talk to an old boy such as myself" He chuckled quietly, soon offering Joshua a respectful half bow; "I'll not be far" he concluded in reassurance before stepping away and turning his sights to the social affair unveiling around them all.

 

[Zeradias Mant]

Zeradias should have known better. A man of such significance to the Iron Empire could hardly expect to go undetected, even momentarily. As he took a sip of his whiskey, there was a particular figure that beelined to the bar. He had a feeling it wasn't for alcohol though, and he was right. With an extended hand gloved in white, the weasily looking gentleman offered a handshake and introduction. Lucien E. Irridius - a name he had not heard before. Glancing at the white gloves before meeting the man's gaze, he returned the greeting with a firm handshake.

"A pleasure. Who're you with?", he asked nonchalantly, not as to who his partner is, but more curious as to which organization he belonged. His composure and appearance screamed imperial, but with all the factions rising and falling in the galaxy it could have been any of them. He knew for certain it was not the First Order, as he knew much more of them than others.

[member="Lucien E. Irridius"]​

 

[Kay-Larr]

Kay looked from [member="Josh DragonsFlame"] to his little boy, her brows furrowed as she tried to remember either of their faces. It wasn't until he had said his name that she recognized it. There were messages between the two of them on her datapad. It seemed as though he was telling the truth and that made the situation even more uncomfortable. "I'm sorry, I..."

[member="Veiere Arenais"] interjected in just then, explaining her memory loss in the simplest way. Then he excused himself, saying that it would all be good for her. Right...Emotional was more like it and she didn't like to go down this route, especially while in a public place. And with a kid present....

She looked up to Josh with an apologetic look. "Veiere speaks the truth. There are some things that I don't remember, a result of trauma. But I'm working on having it reversed. If it's possible, then it will take more time." The details were too much for a toddler to handle.

 

[Diana Veneris]

Diana Veneris should have been accustomed to fanfare and ball gowns. She should have attended more galas than she could count and sashayed through so many waltzes that she could dance the steps in her sleep. As a highborn daughter of Eshan, Diana should have experienced a great many things that she had been utterly denied at the tyrannous hand of her uncle. The politics of House Veneris were twisted, but Diana did not like to dwell on the past. She had risked everything to escape hers. Now was the time for new beginnings.
The invitation had come most unexpectedly. [member=Atheus] knew where to find the young Echani, but much had transpired since their chance encounter on Dantooine. Diana had begun to settle into life on Tygara and had entered the first metamorphosis of her training under the watchful eye of [member="Siobhan Kerrigan"], who was first and foremost her rescuer, now her benefactor. For all of the sunsets and sunrises that had transpired, however, Diana had not forgotten the dusky soldier who had shown her so much kindness. It likewise seemed that Atheus had not forgotten Diana.
She had traveled across the stars to Csilla at his request, her arrival only marginally delayed by the heavy influx of starships into the frosty system. Judging by the traffic alone, the gala seemed off to a stunning start. As it were, this was Diana’s first event of such magnitude. She could not quell the timorous sensation that fluttered beneath her breast as she glided through the security checkpoint and prepared to enter what, to her, seemed like a fairytale.
Women floated across the floor in sweeping skirts, glittering with jewels and adornments. Men in their best regalia held sparkling glasses full of drinks that Diana had never tasted, laughing heartily and swapping stories from wars past. Lifeforms of every size, shape, and color elegantly weaved in and out of finely set tables, others taking to the ballroom floor as the orchestra filled the air with buoyant marches and dreamy melodies. It was more than just a fairytale. It was real—and it was more stirring to Diana’s soul than any imagining could have been.
“Right this way, my lady. You may enter the hall through that open curtain—you’ll emerge onto a platform and take the stairs directly down to the ballroom.”
“Thank you,” Diana murmured graciously, offering the attendant a quiet smile.
“Nervous?” He asked, grinning.
“I am,” She replied. Her clear blue eyes were wide.
“Don’t be. You look lovely. Go on now.”
Diana smiled once more, but this time, it was bolstered with resolve. She inclined her head in thanks toward the attendant and moved to make her entrance. With one deep breath, and a racing heart, Diana emerged through the curtain to stand at the top of the grand staircase.
The long, elegant skirts of her gown flowed down to the floor like molten ivory, stemming out of the intricately patterned bodice that clung lovingly to her shape. Her exposed back was covered only by the crowning glory of her hair, which fell in moon-white ringlets down to her waist, save for the thick braid that encircled her head like a halo. The faintly perfumed signature of rosewater still clung to her porcelain skin, but her jewelry and other embellishments were minimal. Diana’s aesthetic was simple and clean, a soft contrast to the glitz.
As she surveyed the crowd below, Diana could not help but beam. The partygoers were all so joyful and lovely, she felt as though she could fall in love a thousand times over. Somewhere among them was Atheus. Her crystal gaze searched.

Spoiler

[member=Atheus] | [member="Lady Kay"] | [member="Veiere Arenais"] | [member="Adron Malvern"] | [member="Aster Rose Baelor"] | [member="Emeline Thorn"] | [member="Savitor Draay"] | [member="Talos Rygat"] | [member="Théodred Heavenshield"] | [member="Nina Heavenshield"] | [member="Bato Golden"] | [member="Caelag Vass"] | [member="Audren Sykes"] | [member="Carlyle Rausgeber"] | [member=Jacques] | [member="Josh DragonsFlame"] | [member="Zeradias Mant"] | [member="Lucien E. Irridius"] | [member=FN-1313]​

 

[Garza]

Looking around after introducing myself to the two in question, I didn't even hear them if they began to speak or not. In all honesty, I wasn't wanting to introduce myself to others. I wanted to see familiar faces that I could walk up to and talk about good times, or how we stood arm in arm in the field of battle. When the truth was so far from that. I saw various others from the Iron Empire. Aster was a nice young lass who has done everything she can for her people. Learning about the various cultures that have been introduced to our empire to make everyone feel welcome. Her father took care of the tougher stuff. Dealing with a coup and pushing the Empire forward.

Me? I threatened the life of a member of leadership, and got smacked hard for it. The only reason I was likely still here was because I was good at what I do. I was a soldier. Born and bred. Its who I was. I was trained to prematurely end the lives of men. No emotions. I held all of that back because of what happened to him. and how much it hurt me to see someone I knew perish.

I thought about how I lost control and became a student of a Sith Lord. What gets me, is why I was here now. Was it some path set before me? Was I supposed to be something different? I didn't have a clue. Lady Kay seemed to have everything in order. A planet to rule, and a government that was gaining strength. A husband that could only be the best for her. I felt.. envious of her. Having things I didn't have. So why was I helping her? I helped because maybe I could find out what I needed to become to find something like that.

Maybe, just maybe if I extended my hand out to someone, they would answer. I was allowed to hand out personal invitations to those I welcomed to the Gala. People who could be potential allies, or just to let some friends have a good time. Maybe, just maybe she would show up. I doubted it, and I didn't bank on it. Removing myself from the two, I headed over towards the refreshments table.

"It was nice meeting you two, I hope you enjoy the night."

I did say we could either dance or drink the night away. Part of me wanted to drink, but I just couldn't bring myself to do it. Breathing in, I adjusted my tie to sit against my collar nicely. Breathing in, I just pulled my hat off my head and ran my hand over the top of my combed hair. Gently placing my had back on my head, and making sure it was snug on my crown. I grabbed a simple drink from the table. Didn't even care what it was. I just wanted something to get down my throat, when I could feel something pulling my attention to the right. I was half tempted to not look just for the sake of it. My other half won out and I took a quick look over.

The white hair was the first thing I saw. It seemed to shimmer slightly in the light. A young woman in a simple yet beautiful gown that was modest, but showed off her nature as a female. The white gown glowed with her. I seemed to lose my breathing as this young woman stood on the top of the stairs. I could only sigh in relief as she did get the invitation. I sat my drink down. I didn't need false liquid courage. Standing up straight, I walked towards the stairs, and took myself up one step. Resting my arm on the banister that moved with the stairs. I couldn't help myself but smile. Not even caring if anyone saw me this way.

"It seems that the invitation reached you safely."

I watched as she moved down the stairs towards me. Even her beaming smile could brighten the day of all the people here. It felt... nice? Reaching up with my hand, She took it as I 'aided' her down the last few steps. The entire time, I could feel in the force the emotions just flowing from her. I couldn't quite tell anyone how I was feeling other than...

Human.

​"You look... incredible."

With: [member="Diana Veneris"],

Others: [member="Nina Heavenshield"], [member="Théodred Heavenshield"], [member="Caelag Vass"] [member="Bato Golden"], [member="Talos Rygat"], [member="Aster Rose Baelor"] [member="Savitor Draay"], [member="Audren Sykes"], [member="Lady Kay"], [member="Veiere Arenais"], [member="Emeline Thorn"], and [member="Adron Malvern"], [member="Zeradias Mant"], [member="FN-1313"], [member="Josh DragonsFlame"], [member="Lucien E. Irridius"],

 

[Nina Heavenshield]

A soft yet audible "hmph" escaped her at the mention of 'the ways of women', as the admiral put it. The remark only made him appear more pompous than he already did, and did the exact opposite of winning Nina over if such was his intention. She watched as the subservient Knight of Ren stepped aside and away from the group, and couldn't help but feel for pity him of his poor treatment at the hands of his charge. They may hold vastly different mantras dear to their hearts, but she could sense the young man had more honour than the one ordering him around.

"I was not aware there are set rules when it came to courting women, Admiral," she eyed the uniformed man. "I can assure you, we are not all the same." Her eyes trailed elsewhere, and were more than happy to do so.

"Enough time, patience and diligence can accomplish any task, gentlemen. The masterful Mon Calamari engineers of Dac were most helpful in putting it together once I had the blueprints and design nailed down," she replied to the question posed by [member="Savitor Draay"]. "A lifelong dream is worth accomplishing, wouldn't you say?" A tender smile found her lips before she decided to take another sip from her drink.

"I feel like I've been the only one speaking - please, tell me about yourselves! What do you do for a living, [member="Bato Golden"]? You don't strike me as a soldier, if you don't mind me saying so."

[member="Jacques"] | [member="Carlyle Rausgeber"]​

 

[Josh Dragovalor]

He would look toward [member="Veiere Arenais"] when he would confirm that yes, this was the Kay that he knew. He seemed polite, that guy, but when he would explain in short that Lady Kay had lost her memory due to some sort of event, his frown only seemed to broaden. When the man would leave them to talk it out, he would wait until he left before managing one quip.

"So, he your husband? Because that means I win the bet."

His lips finally twitched into a cheeky smile. His being a bit more upbeat seemed to effect Jason, who would poke his head out as though he could sense the mood changing. Was the boy Force Sensitive? It was possible... His parents were both Jedi, after all. Kay would explain the situation somewhat, in minimal detail. Likely due to them being in public, and due to Jason being present... He would nod his head in turn. "That's alright" He would respond, trying to lighten his tone. There wasn't anything they could at this point except try to get her memories back.

"Well, maybe we can try to stimulate your memory a bit? Here, I think I have some pictures on my datapad, uh..." He began as he would look down at the child in his arms. "Here, uh... I don't know how to say this without causing you a fright, but uh... This is Jason, he's... Your god-son, we talked about that a little while before he was born, you haven't actually met him before now" He would remark, a bit sheepishly as he would hold out Jason towards her. "If you could hold him for a moment, I'll grab my datapad and-" He would start but as soon as Jason saw what was happening, he let out a loud, panicked whine and clung to his father, burying his face in his chest again and sobbing uncontrollably. "... Okay, maybe not. Shh, shh, it's okay..." He would coo toward the small child as he would cradle him a bit in his arms before looking back at Kay with an apologetic expression.

"... I'm sorry, Kay-Larr, he's just really shy. He'll warm up to you, I'm sure" He would comfort warmly. "Do you mind if we go sit down somewhere? I'll have my hands free then, and we can talk without as much noise."

[member="Lady Kay"]

 

[WolfMortum]

Veiere wandered the grand hall, glancing about the crowd with a light hearted inquiry, curious to meet some of these people though many if not all of them engaged in conversations of their own, it was only right that he not interrupt. Passing [member="Atheus"] and those he talked with, Veiere offered him a curt nod before moving further into the area, his eyes soon glancing across that of [member="Théodred Heavenshield"] causing him to pause a moment, reaching out through the force to gently probe the mans senses with a slightly stronger presence of his own, if not to simply let the younger man know that he had not gone unnoticed within the wide variety of peoples there. Chuckling to himself quietly, he continued, again to polite to want to interfere.

It was the public bar that he found himself ending up at, the long polished wooden grain of the counter a warm and smooth surface beneath his hands, he leaned forward against it and slid a credit chip across to one of the many waiters there serving a number of visitors and looking far busier than was typically comfortable for them. "Corellian Whiskey" he called for, gesturing to the top shelf with a friendly grin, "Make it a double...-This air isn't my norm" he soon laughed, the bartender smiling and bobbing his head sideways as if to say that he understood; it was a friendly courtesy more than an understanding yet civility never went unappreciated with Veiere. The man would get a tip if he kept appearances high, after all it was part of the job and how he broke his bread.

Nodding in thanks and with a slight lift of his glass in toast to the man, Veiere turned to put his back to the bar counter, looking instead across the hall to watch the many others going about...-whatever it was they were doing. This was the first time he'd been to anything associated with the Iron Empire, directly. Their catering to all kinds had impressed well enough though looking from one face to the next, it stood out evidently clear that without [member="Lady Kay"] at his side, he had little affiliation to anyone there. The thought left him somewhat on the back foot, soon finding the need to distract himself with anything that might fill his cup, so to speak.

Spoiler

[member="Atheus"] | [member="Lady Kay"] | [member="Diana Veneris"] | [member="Adron Malvern"] | [member="Aster Rose Baelor"] | [member="Emeline Thorn"] | [member="Savitor Draay"] | [member="Talos Rygat"] | [member="Théodred Heavenshield"] | [member="Nina Heavenshield"] | [member="Bato Golden"] | [member="Caelag Vass"] | [member="Audren Sykes"] | [member="Carlyle Rausgeber"] | [member="Jacques"] | [member="Josh DragonsFlame"] | [member="Zeradias Mant"] | [member="Lucien E. Irridius"] | [member="FN-1313"]

 

[Diana Veneris]

There he was. Out from the sea of unfamiliar revelers, dressed in his finest military regalia, emerged [member="Atheus"]. Any vestige of trepidation vanished the moment Diana saw his face. It was far more than mere relief at discovering a friend in a room full of strangers. When their eyes met across the glittering ballroom, Diana lit up like a small star.

“Athy,” She greeted through a radiant smile, the cultured intonation of her voice soft but exuberant. It was her special name for him that she had curated during their time together on Dantooine—would he remember? More than a few months had passed since they had last seen each other, though Diana had wondered about him often. A flutter rose in her chest at the imminence of seeing him again now.

As Atheus made his way through the crowd, Diana descended down the grand staircase. She came to him in a dreamlike sweep of ivory skirts and flowing wheaten hair, her gaze locked on his, a quiet rush of joy emanating from her pale features like moonbeams. Their hands met, and in one seamless act of chivalry, Atheus escorted Diana down to the floor.

When she turned to stand before him, Diana realized that, during their time apart, she had nearly forgotten what a large silhouette Atheus made. He dwarfed her by more than a foot in height so that she had to crane her blonde head to look up at him. As she did, she found herself quite taken with what she saw.

His uniform was dapper and crisp against the sturdy outline of his frame, a belt drawn taut around his sleek middle, and a tie around his thick neck. All the while, a hat perched roguishly atop the crown of his head, casting a mysterious shadow over his brow. The most notable part of his appearance, however, was the lower half of his face. He did not wear his mask tonight. Diana ventured her crystal eyes over the outline of his jaw, his lips, the dimple in his chin. It was good to see him—to truly see him. She smiled.

“Thank you. You look quite gallant yourself,” Diana murmured, glowing. “I was flattered by your invitation. The gala is lovely.”

She allowed him to lead the way through the sparkling crowd, taking the arm that he offered as they found a place to speak more privately, just on the fringe of the dance floor. For a moment, Diana could only watch the swirl of flowing skirts that moved in time with the orchestra’s music. It was enchanting. Were it not for the steady cadence of her heart, a veritable drum, Diana might have presumed that she was dreaming. Slowly, almost shyly, she returned her gaze to Atheus.

“I haven’t forgotten your kindness to me on Dantooine, though I confess I wasn’t expecting to see you again. I’m glad that I have.” Diana beamed up at him quietly, lowering her lashes, then lifting them once more. Sincere interest filled the depths of her soulful blue eyes. “I trust that you’ve been well?”

Spoiler

[member=Atheus] | [member="Lady Kay"] | [member="Veiere Arenais"] | [member="Adron Malvern"] | [member="Aster Rose Baelor"] | [member="Emeline Thorn"] | [member="Savitor Draay"] | [member="Talos Rygat"] | [member="Théodred Heavenshield"] | [member="Nina Heavenshield"] | [member="Bato Golden"] | [member="Caelag Vass"] | [member="Audren Sykes"] | [member="Carlyle Rausgeber"] | [member=Jacques] | [member="Josh DragonsFlame"] | [member="Zeradias Mant"] | [member="Lucien E. Irridius"] | [member=FN-1313]​

 

[Garza]

Holding her hand, the smoothness of her skin, and the stark paleness compared to mine caught my attention. Her Echani nature was bright, and almost made her fluoresce with the lighting above us. All I could do was smile as she was the complete opposite of my own darker nature. As her feet touched the floor, I opened my arm to allow hers to sling into mine. There was no point in denying it, I wanted to have Diana by my side. Even as she spoke of my name that had been given to me, I didn't feel embarrassed by it.

I felt calm as I led her across the dance floor, out of the way of others to allow them room to dance. It was when we reached over to our little spot where we could speak in a more private matter, She returned to me with a compliment of her own. Saying I looked gallant. I could feel my chest get a little bit puffier as she said that to me. I tried to deflate myself a little as she spoke to me about getting the last time we spoke. Dantooine. It felt forever ago, yet I could remember it as though it happened yesterday.

Her voice felt pleasant as she asked if I had been well since our last meeting. Well, starting up a group of people to fight for others, as well as aiding the Empire, and bringing the Commenor people onto the map a bit more, Yeah I was fairly well. The thing was, I was always working. No play. Even now during this Gala I was supposed to work to make people look at the Iron Empire in a good light. Instead, I just wanted to chat with Diana, and have a good time for once in my life. I think I earned it.

"Just been working, and doing what I can."

Truth. It was the easiest way I could say it. Diana was so small compared to me, I had to lower my gaze to look at her. As much as I had to look down, I knew that she had to crane her neck up to even look at me. Taking that into account, my arm reached out to our side as two chairs flew from where they were a few feet away to be right next to each other. Offering her a seat, I thought it might be easier to talk if we were on equal levels. Though, I wouldn't admit that it was because of our height. More so that it would be comfortable for both of us as she just came here from her own vessel.

"I am glad that you accepted the invitation. It's good to see you again."

What got me is the fact that she was dressed so differently from last time, but it fit her perfectly. She was a simple person. While she may be extravagant, she had a down to earth feel that could only be noticed by her actions. It was then my face flashed a little with a surprised look. I hadn't offered her anything. I wasn't being a good host! I turned a moment to find the right table, then returned my attention to her while I pointed to said table.

"I forgot to ask, is there anything you would like? A drink or a refreshment?"

With: [member="Diana Veneris"],

Others: [member="Nina Heavenshield"], [member="Théodred Heavenshield"], [member="Caelag Vass"] [member="Bato Golden"], [member="Talos Rygat"], [member="Aster Rose Baelor"] [member="Savitor Draay"], [member="Audren Sykes"], [member="Lady Kay"], [member="Veiere Arenais"], [member="Emeline Thorn"], and [member="Adron Malvern"], [member="Zeradias Mant"], [member="FN-1313"], [member="Josh DragonsFlame"], [member="Lucien E. Irridius"],

 

[Kay-Larr]

Kay smirked as [member="Josh DragonsFlame"] asked her if [member="Veiere Arenais"] was her husband and let her know that they had a bet in place. Her notes didn't reveal any of that. "He will be soon. And we had a bet, did we? How much do I owe you?" As far as she could remember, she wasn't the betting sort.

Her eyes dropped down to Jason as soon as he was introduced. She had a god-son? Kay gave the boy a small smile, though by then he was already hiding. She looked up to Josh and tried to remember him, or anything about their friendship. Yet there was nothing. For the sake of the child, she didn't let it upset her. Though discovering these things frustrated her greatly. How many others does she not remember?

Kay glanced around as Josh asked for them to go somewhere quiet. Many people lingered about in little pockets. "How about the balcony? Some fresh air could help." As she led the two to the nearest balcony, she wondered how up to date Josh was. If it had been a couple of years, then he had surely missed out a lot.

 

[Josh Dragovalor]

He couldn't help but laugh at that bit about the bet from Kay-Lar. "Oh, it was merely a playful bet. Made in jest. And even if it wasn't, I wouldn't actually chargs you a thing, it's not my style, and I know you would have been the same way if the day came that somehow we both died and you were unmarried, and I would have to pay up in the afterlife" The Jedi would joke back. He would nod to her offer to head to the balcony and let her lead the way. Once they were up there, he would continue on.

"Still... I'm happy you're happy finally." He spoke softly with a small smile. "You were so adamant that after what happened to your husband, you would never be able to find love again, and I kept telling you that a girl like you would find happiness... I just knew you would."

He chuckled lightly as he seemed to decide on something. "This might come off as weird to you when you don't have your memories, but now that you have your happiness, I think this is okay... To admit. I uh... I have to admit, part of me always felt horrible that I could never fill that hole. Part of me saw that want for happiness and wanted to fill that role, wanted to see you smile more broadly then you would allow yourself. My ability to do so became nonexistent when Shmi came into my life, but part of me wished I could have helped somehow. It makes me happy to know that someone's finally made you happy..." He spoke softly with a smile. "It means a lot to me. I'll have to thank him."

He would motion toward a table and would sit down, letting Jason rest in his lap as he would take out his datapad. "How far back can you remember, Kay?"

(Mobile so no code)

 

[Darth Vulcanus]

[member="Zeradias Mant"]

Irridius was almost offended that this man didn't know who he was. In his own mind, Irridius was one of the most important men in the Galactic Empire. A champion of Imperial thought and dogma. He held back a sneer, instead offering an all-too-polite smile before returning his hand to its position at the small of his back. Standing straight, proud and shamelessly, the Grand Admiral spoke with a tangible pride that slithered from the tip of his tongue.

"Grand Admiral for the Third Galactic Empire, an expanding authority in the lawless territories of Wildspace." The words were spoken not with what one could call sarcasm, but with a definite edge that implied that he should already have the knowledge being given to him. Still, Irridius broke not the pleasant composure he held himself to.

"I've studied much about your Iron Empire, Admiral. Rather impressive, isn't it?"

 

[Bato Golden]

Well then. Bato tried not to seem too excited when the conversation changed to shine on him, but a sliver of enthusiasm still managed to slip out. He couldn't help it; he loved his work, sporadic as it was.

"Oh, no offense taken. I'm no soldier, I've just played one or two, I think. I'm an actor, actually. Also some other stuff, but, y'know, mainly that." He shrugged and scratched the back of his head sheepishly. "My films are pretty niche though, so you probably haven't seen them."

"Corusant City Hustle? Twelve Stars Till Dawn? Either of those sound familiar?"

[member="Nina Heavenshield"] [member="Jacques"] [member="Carlyle Rausgeber"] [member="Savitor Draay"]

 

[Diana Veneris]

A fresh glow illumined Diana’s face as, at the beckoning of [member="Atheus"]' open palm, two chairs came rushing out through a current of the Force. She smiled, remembering how startled she had been the first time she had witnessed Atheus use similar powers back on Dantooine, to summon a coat for her when they were caught together in a storm. He was a powerful man, but since that afternoon so many months ago, Diana had been nurturing her own powers. Tremendous sensitivity to the Force was a trait that she and Atheus shared in common, but while Atheus was a seasoned powerhouse, Diana’s training had only just begun. Perhaps one day she would be as powerful as he, but for now, she was content to watch him and smile.

“Always working,” Diana replied in quiet jest, her voice soft and light. In truth, her respect for Atheus’ work ethic ran deep. He was a self-made individual who had clawed and fought his way out of the depths of a tortuous childhood through nothing but his own gritty resolve. Not unlike Diana, he was a survivor. For two such starkly different people—Atheus dark, Diana light—their stories reflected each other like inverse mirrors.

Diana held the voluminous skirts of her gown and gently lowered herself onto the chair next to Atheus. Even while seated, he towered high above her flaxen head, but now she no longer had to strain to meet his eyes. He looked particularly well this evening, she thought. On Dantooine, he had appeared to her as a warrior of a wilder, coarser brand. Tonight, he looked like a military dandy.

“I’ve heard of your success with the Iron Empire and with Commenor, even from as far as Tygara.” Warmth filled Diana’s crystal eyes. She was happy for him. “I’m sure you’ve been quite busy.”

They had both been busy. Part of Diana yearned to share with him how much progress she had made in her training under Lady Kerrigan, to confide in him all that she had learned, but her bashfulness won out. She still felt like a child in his shadow. What would he think of her, just now learning little skills that he had mastered so long ago that they had become his second nature? He was the apex wolf, and she the wobbling lamb—at least for now.

“Are galas often a part of your work?” As they talked, the orchestra had begun to pick up. Diana ran her captivated gaze back over the glittering party before returning her attention to Atheus. Her smile became wistful. “I should like to attend a gala every night. This is more than a dream.”

When he offered her a drink, however, Diana suddenly paused.

“I . . . “ Have never tasted a real ‘drink’ before? No, if she were avoiding the appearance of a child tonight, she thought it best to keep quiet. “Yes, thank you. Whatever you recommend.” She breathed deeply. Of anyone to share this first with, Diana chose Atheus.