Populate A Winter's Blessing | THR Life and Name Day Thread [Resource Hex]

[Aurelian Veruna]

A Winter's Blessing
A High Republic & Ukatian Monarchy Life and Name Day Thread

Spoiler

All are welcome to join. Please no conflict within the thread, keep it light between all factions!

Threads: X | X

Location: Ukatis

​

On behalf of the High Republic and with great joy, I extend a special invitation from the Crown of Ukatis to all citizens of the Galaxy. As winter arrives in the capital city of Axilla, the area around the Ovli Market will be filled with light and celebration. We call for a day of peace, fellowship, and unity across all worlds in honor of Life Day, that sacred tradition of harmony, hope, and family.

This year's festivities are especially meaningful. Ukatis, now a member of the Republic, will join the Great Houses in hosting the annual Life Day gathering.

We will also celebrate the Name Day of the Dowager Princess of Ukatis, Corazona von Ascania , and the child she is expecting ( Makko Vyres is the father). To honor Ukatian heritage, the evening will include an axe and archery competition in the old warrior style and a sword exhibition by the realm's best champions. Music, food, dazzling decorations, and communal joy will fill the market as the Republic and Ukatis stand together, honoring old traditions, strengthening new bonds, and illuminating peace for all.

All are welcome. May the light guide your way to Axilla.

With honor and goodwill,

Interim Chancellor of the High Republic

Objective I - Lights of the Ovli Market​

The Ovli Market is alive, humming with activity under a gentle snowfall. Lantern-lit stalls line the paths, brimming with Ukatisian crafts, festive Life Day ornaments, warm spiced drinks, and rare trinkets brought from across the Republic. Visitors are invited to simply wander, celebrate with the vendors, share stories with fellow travelers, and truly soak in the holiday spirit.

At the market's center stands a raised ceremonial dais. Here, Corazona von Ascania welcomes guests, accepting well-wishes and gifts, as she celebrates the Name Day and joyful anticipation of her child's arrival.

The evening air hums with song and laughter, lit by the soft glow of crystalline Life Day orbs. As night deepens, whispers move through the crowd, building anticipation. Axilla is said to be blessed by a rare meteor shower, a breathtaking spectacle of silver fire across the sky, promising to crown the celebrations with wonder.

Objective II - Ukatis Warriors Challenge (Axe and Archery)​

In the spirit of Ukatian heritage and as a highlight of the Life Day and Dowager Princess Corazona's Name Day celebrations, the Crown of Ukatis proudly presents the Ukatis Warrior's Challenge: Axe & Archery Competition.

Held in the venerable old warrior style, participants are invited to demonstrate their precision, strength, and steady hand with both the axe and the bow. Against the backdrop of Axilla's illuminated Ovli Market, this friendly yet spirited contest promises an evening of exhilarating skill, honoring ancient traditions, and forging new bonds under the warm glow of fellowship. Do you possess the keen eye and true heart of a warrior? Step forth and prove your mettle!

Spoiler

Event: Axe Throwing & Archery Competition Participation: To participate in either the axe or archery event (or both!), a buy-in of 5,000 UCS is required per event.

Mechanics:

• Each participant will make three (3) standard d20 dice rolls for their chosen event.
  
  • This can be done through the board dice mechanic or a screenshot discord roll.
• Your total score for the event will be the sum of these three rolls.
• Faction Sponsorship Option: For 10,000 UCS, a Faction may allow one (1) reroll for a chosen participant, to be used on one of their three dice rolls per event.

Winning:

• The individual with the highest cumulative score in the Axe Throwing event wins that event. The same applies to the Archery event, determining a separate winner. Prizes (Separate for each event winner):
• A split of the collective UCS buy-in pot for their respective event.
• A unique forum flair commemorating their victory.
• The esteemed privilege of submitting a name recommendation for the Dowager Princess Corazona's expectant child.

All credits pay to Aurelian Veruna

Objective III - Sword Exhibition & Spirited Sparring​

The champions of Ukatis, those wielding traditional metal blades, will demonstrate the power and grace of formalized combat. Following this dazzling display, the ring is open! We invite all citizens, whether seasoned duelists or curious novices, whether equipped with lightsaber, vibro-blade, staff, or practice sword, to pair up for a fun and non-lethal spar.

This is not a duel of hostility, but a celebration of skill, energy, and fellowship. Enter the ring, strike safe blows, and strengthen the bonds of peace through joyful, spirited action!

Spoiler

The Open Ring is strictly for friendly, narrative sparring. Pair up with a partner and describe the action, the parries, and the near misses. This is focused entirely on exciting, non-lethal action roleplay. Feel free to jump in and spectate, offering cheers, advice, or even betting on the outcome!

​

 

[Dominic Praxon]

Snow drifted across the Ovli Market, gathering in soft mounds atop lantern-lit stalls and wreaths of evergreen. Ukatis had embraced the Life Day season with rustic charm, wrought-iron braziers glowing with emberlight, and cedarwood garlands. The scent of mulled spices wove through the crowd. Laughter carried over the music, bright and unburdened. Everywhere Dominic looked, people seemed suspended in a moment of warmth and belonging.

He envied them, if only for a second.

"This way, sir," his aide murmured, stepping around a vendor roasting sugared nuts. "Princess Varanin confirmed they're already here. And…ah, the Chief Engineer's file..."

Dominic accepted the datapad without looking at it. His gloves creaked faintly as he flexed his hands. "Later," he said, eyes scanning the winter market with cool calculation. "We keep moving."

This was an absurd venue for such a negotiation. Life Day lanterns, pregnant royalty receiving gifts on the central dais, axe and archery contests warming up not far from where Dominic needed to conduct a meeting with one of Black Sun's favourite Sith opportunists. Somewhere in the crowd, Bastila might have already arrived, another landmine he had no interest in stepping on.

He exhaled, breath fogging faintly in the cold.

"Of all places for a fuel acquisition," he muttered, "a rustic winter carnival. Charming."

His aide cleared their throat. "Sir, the material is…delicate. Princess Varanin insisted on neutral ground."

"A Sith insisting on anything already puts me in a poor mood," Dominic stopped beneath a canopy of crystalline Life Day orbs, their blue-white glow catching in his hair, "and I'd rather this be over quickly. Outbound Flight can't afford delays."

His future couldn't, either. Not after Bastila, not after the chaos that had nearly derailed him. He had rebuilt from the inside out. Reclaimed order from heartbreak. For the first time in weeks, Dominic Praxon could see a path forward. Something almost luminous was on the horizon.

He refused to let a back-alley fuel acquisition rattle that.

"Sir," his aide said again, offering the datapad back, "the Chief Engineer's dossier. You asked to be briefed before their arrival."

Right. He had. Dominic took the datapad, glancing only at the header, Naboo-trained, exceptional credentials, before a nearby cheer from the archery field jolted his attention away. Time. They were running short.

"Just point me to this Chief Engineer," he said, handing the datapad back unread, "we'll sort introductions on the way."

"Of course, sir. She arrived a moment ago, just over there." Dominic followed the gesture.

He adjusted the lapel of his winter coat as they approached, smoothing the tailored fabric out of habit more than vanity. A dusting of snow clung to the shoulders, melting where the market's lantern-glow warmed the wool. The cold nipped at his face, but he held his posture, composed and undeniably aristocratic.

His aide gestured, again, toward the waiting figure ahead.

Dominic nodded, already moving, his gloved hand tightening to ward of a sudden, unexpected chill. He rehearsed the greeting in his mind. It would be simple, formal and efficient. Get the technical verification done. Move to the negotiation. Maintain control. Nothing more complicated than that.

He stepped closer...

Solaina Embarri Quinn Varanin​

 

[Solaina Embarri]

Her hair was packed neatly beneath the warm beanie covering her ears. More to stop the faint, infuriating sensation of loose strands tickling her neck than any true need for further insulation. Her hands were buried deep within double-layered gloves that made fine work impossible, the sort of unwieldy mitts that turned precise fingertips into dull paddles. A trade off for keeping those digits capable of fine work from the potential harm of prolonged cold weather.

Still, they kept the cold at bay.

Mostly.

A lingering chill crept down her spine anyway, chased by a sharp shiver despite the heavy winter coat that fell nearly to her calves. She had tested the coat’s warmth before leaving for this rather conspicuous meeting site. Which was an absurdly public place for something as volatile as a fuel negotiation, and yet here she stood. Boots planted where her coat ended, toes warming against the insulated lining.

Solaina had been informed that she was to meet the benefactor behind the Outbound Flight program, as part of a joint effort to secure a “reliable” fuel source. She scoffed aloud at that word. Reliable. As if whoever held the purse strings truly understood what it meant. As if credits alone could compensate for the engineering nightmare that acquiring and stabilizing such a fuel would inevitably become.

Even now, as she rubbed her hands together for warmth, her mind drifted toward the cascade of design updates she would need to make. Updated storage matrices. Reinforcement schematics. Hazard-buffering systems that would have to be redrawn from the ground up. Questions upon questions, all spiraling through her mind in an organized storm of logistics. All far more comforting than the waiting.

But arriving earlier than the benefactor or the… procurement specialist… had proved to be a miscalculation. The market around her buzzed with Life Day joy, laughter, music, children darting through snowdrifts, and all of it pressed against her like a reminder of everything she could not touch. Everything she could not return to. That painful, hollow longing for home rose again, tight in her throat, as if the cold itself carried memories of Seltos that she could do nothing but endure.

Waiting was always its own kind of misery for her. It left her mind too free, too exposed to the ache of an isolation she rarely allowed herself to acknowledge. She rubbed her hands harder, as though friction alone could quiet the gnawing uncertainty that came with stillness.

It didn’t.

These quiet moments reminded her, far too sharply, that she might truly be trapped within the slice of space the High Republic Senate could still influence. Cut off. Separated. Alone. The Blackwall made certain of that. The galaxy moved on.

She was expected to move with it.

The crunch of snow behind her was different. Purposeful. Not an accidental step or the weaving shuffle of a distracted reveler. She didn’t whirl toward the sound. Didn’t give into the anxious snap of curiosity. Instead allowed her head to turn just enough to acknowledge whoever approached. And though she kept her posture steady, her pulse quickened with an unwelcome suspicion. A suspicion she had been trying, with little success, to ignore since the moment she read the briefing.

She hoped it wasn’t him.

She already knew it was.

Her breath fogged faintly as she exhaled, bracing herself, not for the negotiations, not for the fuel, but for something else entirely.

"Senator Praxon," she spoke with a polite nod, her voice steady despite the tightness in her chest. "Let’s get you briefed and move straight to the technical. Fuel isn’t something either of us should linger in the cold discussing longer than necessary."

Dominic Praxon Quinn Varanin

 

[Makai Dashiell]

LIGHTS OF THE OVLI MARKET

Wearing | Gear : X | X | X | X | X | L3-37 | Interacting With :

“So, I may have went a little overboard on the recent Holo Centaxday sale.”


Standing in line for a hot toddy, his hand was intertwined with his wife’s. They needed to come to Ukatis for business - researching new varieties of plants that would do while for their unnamed Slice project. Work was set to begin on the proposed agriworld at the end of Life Day, beginning to set up the advanced climate systems needed to produce food at scale.


Instead of one big boring business trip, they had decided to turn it into something of a date night as well. Danger had been recruited for some quality grandparent time with Phoebe. Persephone was on planet - no doubt with the boy that had been hanging around her. Makai wasn’t exactly thrilled but so far it was the only boy who had the testicular fortitude to come and speak with him man to man. A small point there.


The line slowly crept forward. Their first stop before they would begin to wander the market to do a little Life Day shopping.


“First is a tricycle. Don’t give me that look, yes it has to be assembled. Yes I will do it well before our annual gift wrapping night.”


Gift wrapping night was a new tradition that had come along with the birth of their daughter. They picked a night the week of Life Day to drink copious amounts of wine and wrap Phoebe’s gifts but often the wine impeded the quality of the wrapping towards the end. Imperative things were assembled well in advance to avoid disaster on the morning of Life Day.


“Second is a completely awesome kid friendly portable holo microscope toy.” As the line crept forward, so did the excitement in his voice. “Ells this thing is so cool. She’s going to have a blast running around looking at things through it.”


Translation : he was going to have a blast running around looking at the environment through it.

 

[Corazona von Ascania]

Makko Vyres | Open to Visitors!
​

It was an old tradition. Ukatis was rife with those - but this one, at least, was rather benign. Joyful, even.

The Name Day Festival was custom that stretched back millennia, but had fallen to the wayside in modern times. In the old days, whenever a member of the royal family was with child, a celebration to honor the new life took place.

Given the turmoil in the galaxy, the Ukatian monarchy sought to resurrect the tradition, if only to provide their denizens and guests with a cheerful evening.

Seated on the dais next to her husband, Cora was swathed in finely woven robes of red and green that fell loosely over the growing curve of her abdomen. A circlet of holly, with bright scarlet berries clustered among its leaves, was crowned atop golden locks. The dais was decorated with complementary fabrics and ornaments of dark wood and dried leaves. Brightly colored papercraft made by children trailed from the overhanging canvas.

Cora had been skeptical of reviving this particular custom, thinking it silly. But as she sat among the festive buzz of the marketplace and warm glow of lantern light, she couldn't help but find the holiday spirit infectious.

"Thank you, Duke Hassel. She's simply…" Cora trailed, trying to find the words to describe the white mare her unborn daughter has been gifted by a particularly flashy local Lord, "brilliant."

As Hassel departed, Cora kept her bright smile as she leaned in close to Makko: "What on Ukatis is an infant going to do with a horse?"

Perhaps some saw the celebration as an opportunity to influence the crown.

Not all of the well-wishers would bring such extravagant gifts: many simply offered their congratulations or, at most, small tokens.

After all, there was no shortage of Ukatian craftsmen that delighted in selling trinkets to their offworld guests. Carved from wood or smithed from metal, these souvenirs were advertised to ward off evil or bring about a particular kind of luck.

Cora had already received three such baubles for fertility. Which, she thought to herself wryly, had come just a little too late.

 

[Aiden Porte]

OBJ:1
Arhiia Voronwe @Open​

Snowflakes collected on Aiden's shoulders and hair before melting into damp warmth, but he barely noticed them. His attention was fixed on the cluster of younglings bundled in thick coats and mismatched mittens, all of them tumbling into the drifts beside the Ovli Market like a herd of excited loth cubs. Their laughter rose like sparks, bright, impossible to ignore, and somehow warming even in winter's breath. He knew Arhiia was here somewhere, something about getting hot chocolate. He smirked as he looked back at them.

Aiden folded his arms, trying to look stern, and that lasted about three seconds.

"All right," he called out, voice carrying easily over the din, "Remember, no Force pushing each other face first into the snow. I'm serious. That includes you, Bena."

The tiny Togruta girl froze mid-gesture, her hand hovering suspiciously near her friend's back. Aiden raised an eyebrow. She lowered her hand and he nodded, victory claimed.

The younglings immediately went back to building a small army of lopsided snow sculptures, half Jedi, half imaginary monsters with far too many teeth. Aiden stepped closer, kneeling beside a boy shaping what appeared to be a snow-boulder with great determination.

"Master Porte! Master Porte! Look!" three of them chorused at once, pulling at his sleeve to draw him over.

He followed, letting them tug him in all directions, and found himself in front of what they proudly declared was a snow rancor. It was leaning precariously to the left, looking more like a disgruntled bantha, but he bowed solemnly.

"It's perfect," he said. "I once saw a rancor look almost exactly like that."

A ripple of impressed murmurs spread through the group. Aiden did his best to keep a straight face.

 

[Cassian Abrantes]

Objective:2
Shade Elian Abrantes ​

Cassian Abrantes moved through the lantern-lit bustle of the Ovli Market with a steady, unhurried stride, the kind that made space around him without ever demanding it. Snowflakes drifted in lazy spirals overhead, catching in his dark hair and on the shoulders of his long coat. At his side, Shade walked with the quiet grace that always seemed to draw eyes without ever seeking them.

Her hand was in his, fingers interlaced with an ease that still surprised him sometimes. He gave that hand a gentle squeeze, more reassurance than gesture, though he wasn't sure if she needed it or if he simply wanted an excuse to feel her closer.

"Try not to look too alarmed," he murmured, tone deceptively casual as they wove between holiday stalls and singing performers. "But I may have… signed you up for something......Axe throwing."

He could feel the sharp inhale she didn't quite take, the tension in her hand that never fully turned into resistance. Stars, he admired her for that, the way she handled surprise like a weapon she could either sheath or draw.

Though there was undeniable delight in his voice. "Figured it would be a good way to mark our first Life Day on Ukatis together. Besides…" His thumb brushed her knuckles. "You are someone who'd be terrifyingly good at it."

They rounded the last row of stalls, and the ceremonial dais came into view, banners rippling, axes stacked neatly, targets set in concentric rings of painted wood. The energy of the contest thrummed in the air.

"Oh, one more thing," he said, as if it were an afterthought. It wasn't.

"Elian will meet us here."

Shade blinked at that, and Cassian met her look with something softer. More vulnerable. Less negotiable. "He's signed up for the archery portion," Cassian said. "I wanted you two to meet." He took a small breath. "He's family, so I figured it was time. And I got a good feeling, you will like him." Or, more truthfully, he hoped Elian would like her. And he hoped Shade knew that meant something, meant everything, coming from him. He squeezed her hand once more, steady and sure, before guiding her toward the competition grounds, the snow-lit world opening before them like a promise.

 

[Elian Abrantes]

OBJ:2
Shade Cassian Abrantes
​

Elian Abrantes arrived at the archery range with all the swagger of someone who'd been born to cause trouble in the most charming way possible. The snow-dusted lanterns of the Ovli Market glittered in his eyes as he picked up one of the competition bows, testing the string with a practiced flick of his fingers. It wasn't quite as smooth as his own gear back home, but it would do, especially with an audience.

He drew the bow experimentally, posture loose and relaxed, as if this were nothing more than a game he'd already decided he was going to win. The arrow flew cleanly toward the practice target, thudding in with a satisfying, if not perfect, strike. Elian grinned, broad, boyish, unmistakably pleased with himself.

Then he noticed Cassian approaching with someone new at his side.

Shade.

Elian straightened, lowering the bow, curiosity sparking immediately across his features. He watched as Cassian introduced them, his older brother suddenly looking, almost nervous? Adorably formal, even. That alone was worth the price of admission.

Elian flashed them a bright, easy smile and offered a small, respectful bow, just enough to be polite, yet casual enough to show he wasn't about to take anything too seriously tonight.

"Elian Abrantes," he said lightly. "Resident troublemaker. Future archery champion. Don't worry, I only cause small disasters. Cassian has talked about you. A lot, like to the point to where it could be considered annoying." He teased at the last part, but catching Cassian's gaze he quickly recovered.

Elian took her hand with all the poise of a gentleman and gave her hand a small kiss. He then stepped closer and gave his brother a discreet but very obvious elbow to the ribs. Not hard, just enough. He leaned in with a quiet, playful murmur, smirk tugging at his lips, as he placed his arm around Cassian.

"Nicely done, bro."

 

[Thessaly Veruna]

Objective 1​

Winter had always suited Thessaly Veruna. The cold sharpened the world, showing the bitterness that was always truly present. Ukatis, however, managed to turn this winter into something…provincial. Snowdrifts muddied by too many boots, lanterns strung without symmetry, decorations charming only to those who had never known luxury.

And everywhere...peasants. Allowed to mingle freely with nobility, brushing their coarse sleeves against brocade, breathing their warm, unfiltered breath into air meant for better lungs. Life Day, she supposed, demanded inclusivity. A rather undignified inconvenience.

Still, she cut an immaculate figure among them, gliding through the marketplace in her fur-lined coat, its auburn and ivory tones echoing regality far beyond these rustic celebrations. The murmurs that followed her smelled of admiration tinged with unease. Thessaly did not slow to acknowledge either.

Senator Ravion Corvalis lingered somewhere in the thinning crowd, but she spared him no greeting yet. She had arrived for a purpose, and diplomatic courtesy, however distasteful, demanded its dues.

Her gaze drifted toward the raised dais where Princess Corazona and her husband received guests beneath garlands of dried leaves. A quaint display. Charming, if one admired handicrafts. Thessaly's smile thinned.

The mare gifted by Duke Hassel still grazed at the edge of the platform, a symbol of both extravagance and astonishing impracticality. Thessaly could not decide which amused her more.

She approached with poised steps, the crowd parting before her without a word exchanged. A few commoners dipped their heads in hurried respect. Good. They should do so. Why they did so? Was it fear or well learned deference? She neither knew nor cared. Their attempts at courtesy were clumsy, their hands still smudged with whatever humble labours defined their days. She made a point to pass just out of arm’s reach.

As she neared the dais, her expression softened into something almost warm. Almost.

“Dowager Princess,” she said with a quiet deferential curtsey and bow of the head. Her tone conveyed both reverence and sharpened edge. “What an honour to witness this celebration on such a blessed day.”

“And to see Ukatis…thriving.”

Thessaly turned and waved down toward the servants that had followed her, being largely ignored until this moment. They were Aurelian's preferred attendants from Parrlay. He would enjoy missing them, surely. They each carried furs from the rare Aurorastags of Eliad, almost extinct. These were ancient, though, acquired from a liquidated noble family on Eliad.

"Nothing more pleasant for a child's crib than the silken touch of Aurorastag pelt. For you...good Princess."

Ravion Corvalis Corazona von Ascania Makko Vyres​

 

[Bettany Sal-Soren]

Location: Ukatis
Objective: Give a gift. Take some fun
Tags: Aileni Ifor Xeraic

Bettany mingled in the life day festivities feeling festive. Her and her cousin Bastila Sal-Soren had discussed coming dressed as elves for this evening, but nothing had ever been confirmed so Bettany went just elf enough for it to count, but not so elf that she would stand out like a sore thumb and look like an idiot.

She had bought the happy couple a hover pram hand painted in softly stylised versions of her family crest mixed with emblems of what she believed to be the father's emblem. Inside was a small white stuffed loth cat with fake eyes that while adorable. Seemed to watch her as she nervously approached the dias and gave a little curtsey.

"Bettany Maybelline of House Sal-Soren, my lady." she said politelty. "Coming on behalf of myself with a little gift. I wish you all the best of luck... and I hope its a girl." she grinned the last past with odd ideas that she might play the offspring one day too, completely obvlivious to the complete age disparity between her and the baby. Such was her nerves.

She turned and stepped away walking toward a couple of people she knew were also padawans. She had seen them about the temple, even exchanged hello's and chatted to them in classes, but this was her first oppurtunity to actually socialise and get to know the people who were now her peers (partially anyway, she still had blood and acting in her corner).

"That was needlessly nerve-wracking" she said with wide eyes and pushing hair behind her ear. "I'm not usually that girl... anyway, do you need to go up for your families, or do you wanna go and do something fun?" she finished with a broad smile.
​

 

[Sibylla Abrantes]

​

Objective I - Lights of the Ovli Market
Interacting with: Dominique Vexx | Open
Mood: Joyful joy!

Sibylla drew in a slow breath of cold air, watching it bloom in a soft white cloud before her. The Ovli Market shimmered around her in lanternlight and snowfall, each stall a warm pocket of color and laughter against the winter dusk. She could hear the lovely drift of soft music between the rows of vendors, mingling with the scent of spiced drinks and sugared pastries. It was a beautiful evening, one that perked Sibylla's mood as she saw the revelers meander and move to set their gifts along the dais.

She adjusted the furred cloak about her shoulders with one hand, the thick red and black embroidered brocade of her dress whispering as it brushed her legs. Hazel eyes lifted to the sky just in time to catch a drifting snowflake on her gloved palm. It melted instantly, leaving the faintest cool kiss against the warm leather of her glove. A small smile curved at her lips.

Sibylla loved the snow, but she disliked being cold. Thankfully, the Market was kind: warmers tucked near every stall, braziers glowing by the paths, and enough laughter to banish chill entirely. A hot drink would help too, she decided. She would rectify that soon.

For now, her attention drifted to the woman beside her.

It had been far too long since she had shared an evening like this with Dominique Vexx . Their work drew them in different directions more often than not, but tonight was joy, celebration, and a promise to slow down. And they had both come to offer their well-wishes, with Sibylla with her gift wrapped neatly beneath her cloak for Lady Corazona von Ascania's daughter.

Turning fully toward the Denonite, she offered a wide, warm smile.

"So, how is Life Day celebrated on Denon? I know it is a fete more traditionally honored by the Wookiees, but the celebration seems to be spreading across the galaxy more and more."

 

[Dominique Vexx]

"Just about any way you can imagine. There are people of nearly every world in the galaxy somewhere on Denon," Dominique replied casually. Her golden eyes pulled away from the sights around them and the crowd to regard Sibylla herself. "Though, we do host large fairs and gatherings like these in certain places. There's no shortage of goods to be sold. Arts. Crafts. More utilitarian items. Instead of snow," a gloved hand turned palm up to catch a stray flake, "we have neon lights and dazzling holo shows, of course." The last thing any of them needed was dealing with melting snow seeping down into lower levels. And seeing as how the climate was well regulated who knew what wouldn't respond well to freezing temperatures.

"Like Naboo, I find this scene has its own charm a holo show just can't replicate." The Denonite chuckled to herself.

With their breath occasionally visible in the chilly air, Dominique reached into a pocket of her crisp, white suit adorned with a layer of fur for the occasion. Ordinarily she wore flashy outfits, but ordinarily the temperature was more reasonable. Her gloved fingers emerged with a small device with a tapered end. "If you start to get too cold, I have a air fresher. This model is designed to heat up the air, balance the humidity, and even add a splash of scent. Under the circumstances, I have peppermint loaded, but I also have spearmint." And unlike some cheap store unit, Dominique was completely certain her scent capsule contained nothing the least bit dubious, questionable, or harmful. No need to over complicate a scent fluid.

"Oh, Sibylla, I've missed our times together. At times I worry reports don't convey enough, cautious there might be unbidden eyes monitoring them. And I certainly can't make sure my friend is doing well personally being so far away." They were very busy people, but they had shoring up the Republic in common at the moment. Surprising how often they were pulled apart. Then again, it was a very chaotic galaxy.

Sibylla Abrantes | Open​

 

[Myra Arceneau Dashiell]

Objective I - Lights of the Ovli Market​

Outfit: x | Equipment: x x x x | Tag: Makai Dashiell

Myra tipped her chin up just enough to give Makai that look -- the one that was equal parts fond exasperation and quiet amusement as their fingers laced tighter together. The glow from the Ukatis's lanterns draped over the scene with warm golden light over Makai's face, making him look even more irresistibly handsome in that nerdy, earnest way she had fallen for years ago.

And Inari the Reviver, a night without the kids? This felt decadent.

"Well, well," she murmured, leaning in just enough for her shoulder to brush his arm, "I leave you alone for one Holo Centaxday sale, and suddenly you've bought half the toddler science section." She flashed a pearly white grin even as her voice curled with soft teasing laughter.

"Should I be worried you're building Phoebe her first research lab? Or should I be more worried that you're actually building it for yourself?"

Myra's amusement continue even as the Half_Galan went listing off items, his excitement increasing with every inch the line moved. The snow fell softly, gently landing on Myra's felt cap where the thick tresses were pinned underneath. Her smile softened as affection threaded through the humor as she turned to look at him with a sideline glance taking a sip of her own hot toddy. With the crowd's hum, the scent of spiced drinks, the quiet fall of snow, truly it all framed him perfectly.

"A tricycle, hm?" she repeated, arching a brow as she nudged him lightly with her hip. "You promise you'll assemble it before wine night? I'll believe that when the galaxy strikes down my quarterly reports with mercy."

She squeezed his hand.

"And the microscope? Darling, you know very well you're going to be the one running around analyzing sand grains and micah sheets like it's a galactic breakthrough."

Nonetheless, silver grey eyes swept up to him with a slow and appreciative look.

"But lucky for you… I happen to find brilliant men with questionable shopping restraint extremely attractive."

Myra leaned up, lips brushing the corner of his jaw, a fleeting kiss through the cold.

"So go on," she teased softly, "tell me what else you bought. I'm enjoying watching you vibe in place."

 

[Shade]

Snow was falling, thin and weightless—nothing close to the cutting, crystalline cold of Csilla—and Shade moved through it without so much as a shiver.

Her coat was light, her sleeves rolled just enough to leave her wrists free. She did not need layers. She did not need warmth. She had spent three decades in the shadow of ice storms that could flay flesh from bone; this gentle snowfall felt almost…pleasant.

It clung to the ends of her braid as she walked beside Cassian, her hand resting in his with the same quiet certainty she carried into battle. The Ovli Market glowed around them—lanterns strung from archways, garlands woven through the vendor booths, the scent of spiced drinks and fresh pine drifting through the air. People laughed, sang, and called out greetings.

Shade took it all in without altering her expression. Still, Cassian would see the shift—slight, almost imperceptible—the softening at the corner of her eyes when the light reflected against ice in a way that reminded her of home.

His fingers tightened around hers, drawing her attention.

"You may want to breathe." Her voice was low, cool, and touched by the faintest hint of amusement. "Your pulse elevated the moment we crossed into the crowd."

But when he told her he had signed her up for axe-throwing, she didn't stop walking. She didn't startle. She turned her head the barest degree, unreadable crimson gaze sweeping over him.

A slow blink. A measured breath. Nothing outwardly dramatic.

Then—

"You assume correctly. I will be good at it."

Not pride. Just a fact.

Her hand tightened in his, the faint pressure betraying a flicker of something warm beneath the steel.

But it was the second revelation that drew a true pause from her—half a step, barely visible except that Cassian felt the tension through her fingers.

Elian will meet us here.

Shade looked at him fully then, eyes deep, sharp, silent. Not resistant. Not uncomfortable. Just…evaluating the significance.

Introducing her to his family meant something in his culture. In hers, it meant even more. She didn't ask questions. She didn't pull back.

"I see. Then I will make a good impression."

No promise of charm. No pretense at warmth. Just a precise, unshakeable commitment.

As they rounded the last row of stalls, Elian came into view at the archery line—radiant grin, snow-dusted hair, posture relaxed in a way Shade recognized instantly as someone who had never needed to guard every inch of themselves to survive.

Shade said nothing as he approached. Her hand slipped calmly from Cassian's, so she could offer a formal nod—Chiss discipline blended with Naboo courtesy.

He bowed. She inclined her head in return. Then he took her hand and kissed it. For the briefest moment, Shade went still. Not alarmed. Not offended. Just…taken by surprise.

Then her posture eased by an almost invisible degree, and she met his boyish charm with a composed, unwavering gaze.

"Shade Tal'voss. It is an honor."

Elian elbowed Cassian. Cassian swore under his breath. Shade's expression didn't change. But the faintest spark—something like quiet amusement—flashed in her eyes before she turned them toward the axe range.

Snow drifted softly around her as she stepped forward.

"Shall we begin?"

Elian Abrantes Cassian Abrantes

 

[Makko Vyres]

MAKKO

Makko leaned a little closer on the dais, trying not to look as overwhelmed as he felt. Ukatis needed a celebration and they could rally around formal events.

Often he would blend into the background. That wasn't the case today. First and foremost: this was a family experience for them both. People were celebrating their child.

They could never quite avoid politics. Not with Cora's position. Rumours might have swirled around court about their relationship, but this was also a statement to Ukatis nobles.

Makko wasn't used to being so visible.

As Hassel departed, Cora kept her bright smile as she leaned in close to Makko: "What on Ukatis is an infant going to do with a horse?"

The horse felt like a tipping point.

A horse.

For a baby who wasn’t even born.

"Can you cook a horse?" he whispered. A dark joke, but there was a little more to it. Growing up on Denon he hadn't seen wildlife. Not beyond urban pests. A visit together to Coruscant zoo had exposed his ignorance. Only a few years back he wouldn't have known the difference between a horse and a nerf.

"Maybe she’ll… grow into it?" he murmured, though he clearly had no idea how one grew into a horse. His attempt at a reassuring nod faltered when more well-wishers approached

"Nothing more pleasant for a child's crib than the silken touch of Aurorastag pelt. For you...good Princess."

"Thank you," he said, bowing his head to Thessaly Veruna’s attendants as they presented the Aurorastag furs.

The gifts were presented to Cora so he kept his part polite as she accepted them.

"Bettany Maybelline of House Sal-Soren, my lady." she said politelty. "Coming on behalf of myself with a little gift. I wish you all the best of luck... and I hope its a girl." she grinned the last past with odd ideas that she might play the offspring one day too,

"Thank you so much," Makko said. He grinned openly at the sight of the Loth cat toy. Everything was becoming incredibly real today.

Makko leaned much closer to Cora to whisper.

"Didn't you have some tights like that? Can't remember what happened to them."

He sat back upright and smiled. It was strange to be so visible at a public event. Everything about their future was suddenly becoming very real. Yet he started to feel oddly calm. This was their future and their family.

Makko still hoped that he might catch a little of the axe throwing.

 

[Liana Organa]

- Open to interaction! -
​

Getting called back to Alderaan immediately following the attack on the High Republic senate several months back was about the most embarrassing thing that Liana felt could have happened to her. Mother was being a worrywart with galactic tensions being as taut as they were, and the attack occurring the same day Liana began her service as a junior diplomat only reinforced her concerns. The princess of Alderaan made her protestations quite vocal, but it didn't stop the Alderaani guard from ferrying her back home and under tight security at Amani's behest.

Thankfully, the Queen was not an unreasonable matriarch. Time had passed, and Liana's desires had no less waned. The spirit of Life Day, it seemed, would bring about the decision to reinstate Liana as Alderaan's junior diplomat to the High Republic. The necessity of her role had only amplified in the downtime. With the Galactic Alliance all but disassembled, Alderaan stood alone. Making friends with like-minded neighbors not only prudent, but necessary for survival. And so it is with renewed vigor and determination that Liana Organa steps back onto the scene.

Force willing, her first day back would not involve any more bounty hunters.

---

The Ovli Market had an undeniable rustic charm to it, especially this season. The buzz of a white winter holiday filled the streets; The crisp air balanced by the warmth of hearths, sweet drinks and savory meals seized the olfactors, and merry song enchanted all who would listen. Mother always loved celebrating Life Day, and Liana could see why. The galaxy seemed to become simpler this time of year. Calmer. Maybe even a little nicer.

Still, in spite of the nostalgic ambience, Liana couldn't escape the alien nature of her visit. Coming back to the High Republic a second time around almost felt stranger than the first. Like she were an awkward child who had already messied up the chance to branch out, and was only now crawling back after the moment had already moved on. Would her presence be unnoticed? Her voice unheard? Did it matter anymore that the scion of Alderaan had crossed the border to this blossoming federation, to represent the people of a now isolated world?

Liana certainly hoped it mattered. But the only person who could make that count was her. For now, there was nothing to do but enjoy a cup of chocolate, and warm her fingers against the mug.

 

[Ra'a'mah]

Snow drifted in slow, luminous spirals over Axilla, each flake catching in the lanternlight as though the sky had scattered a thousand tiny stars across the Ovli Market. Warmth and celebration pulsed through every stall: steam rising from spiced drinks, Life Day ornaments casting soft glows against polished stone, Ukatian musicians threading old melodies between the laughter and chatter of travelers from across the Republic.

Ra'a'mah walked among them with deliberate, composed steps, the fall of her dark cloak barely disturbing the snow collecting along its hem. She moved like someone who had lived through far too many winters to be caught off guard by their chill. Her presence did not dominate the space—it shaped it subtly, the crowd flowing around her as though guided by an unseen current. Naboo had taught her grace; the galaxy had taught her precision.

At her side walked Vulpesen, the Valde of Veradune, a steady presence whose silence carried its own weight. His alert posture spoke of a man who understood both danger and peace, and how rarely the latter endured. Ra found the familiarity of his stride comforting—but she did not depend on it.

Together they stepped deeper into the heart of the market, the glow of crystalline Life Day orbs reflecting softly against Ra's golden eyes. For a brief moment, she allowed herself to observe: families clasping hands beneath garlands of frostlight, vendors laughing with their patrons, children darting toward a stall selling tiny carved nexu with bells tied to their tails.

Peace.
Not a myth—just a fragile thing.

Her gaze lifted toward the raised ceremonial dais. There stood Corazona von Ascania, radiant in celebration, greeting well-wishers beneath cascading white lanterns. Ra studied her with a tactician's eye: the set of her shoulders, the balance of weight and duty she carried, the joy threaded carefully around the quiet anxieties of someone who knew her every step was being watched.

"This is her moment," Ra murmured to herself—not loudly, not inviting conversation, simply acknowledging truth. A Name Day. A royal child. A world joining the High Republic in unity and light.

A rare constellation of hope.

Ra's hands folded loosely before her as she took in the scene: the flicker of banners overhead, the scent of spiced cider drifting on a winter breeze, the soft hush of snow settling on warm lantern glass. Life Day had never been part of her upbringing, but she understood ritual. She understood what it meant to stand before a gathering of people and embody stability.

Tonight, she would honor the tradition.
Tonight, she would stand with the Republic rather than apart from it.

She inclined her head slightly toward Vulpesen, a quiet acknowledgment, before beginning to move toward the dais with the same calm control she carried into negotiation, battle, and council halls alike.

The Protectorate had sent her as its face.
Ra had come as herself.

And as the snow continued to fall in gentle spirals, she stepped into the golden glow of the market's heart—welcoming the peace, however fleeting, that Life Day offered.

Vulpesen

 

[Connel Vanagor]

Baby Shower
Ukatis
Celebration

Omega Squad Every Day Gear Locations

• Michael, Gabriel, Azrael, Sariel, Raphael, Jeremiel, Connel, Raguel
  [Any text in brackets signifies comm-link usage and not face to face conversation]
• 
  
  • Gear/Armor
    • Mask
    • Right Gauntlet
    • Left Gauntlet
  • Nano-Tech Armor (For Emergencies)
  • Headset Microphone Comm-Link
  • Mobile "Bodycam" Datapad
  • Lightblaster
  • Shortsabers (“Night” and “Day”)
  • Throwing Lightknives
  • Force Blinding Flashbangs
  SURGICAL - CRYBERNETIC IMPLANTS
  
  • Repli Implants that would be for the limbs
  • Bonemer enhancements to strengthen structure of the body
  • Muscle enhancements.
  • Hemo enhancements for blood flow
  • Hawkeye implants for eyes
  • Advanced Medical Implant
  • Scentzy
  • Injected Nanotech upgrades
  
  
  
• Shadow Sanctuary - Enterprise

There weren’t many nowadays that knew of Connel not being in his full gear. Sure, there were some in the “New Jedi Order” and on Odessen, but outside that? Only really the one who he was here to see. The Princess Bride herself… the Royal Mother to be… enough of the silly euphemisms, he was here to see Lady Corazona Von Ascania. He of course had a “+1” and while he was going to invite Katarine Ryiah , she was not taking his holocalls. Maybe she was just busy. Anyway, it was a good time for some family time, so Connel brought his mother.

This was more her bag anyway.

As for the little goober with them? Well, he would not leave Buster behind.

Corazona von Ascania • AND • TAGS • ARE • OPEN
Personal Effects - Omega Squad Loadouts​

 

[Lysander von Ascania]

Naniti | Varin Mortifer | Acier Moonbound
Corazona von Ascania | Makko Vyres ​

Ukatis had a way of feeling familiar and foreign these days. Visits home came far less often. Too many obligations in the Outer Rim. But the occasion was important, and it was an opportunity to visit family, something he’d never learned to refuse despite the many changes over time.

The holiday traditions here carried their own warmth. Lysander couldn’t recall when he started appreciating such things again. Maybe it was inevitable after so much time away. Distance did have a way of making old things feel.. gentler.

Matte black boots cut through the frost. They matched his durable pants, and above that, a black peacoat clung to his lithe frame. Underneath it was a simple shirt. Something else could have been worn; something less telling perhaps, or the color of celebration. Even green. Lysander could picture it in his mind’s eye.. just barely. But lately, he'd finally begun to rest easily in the shadow, a philosophy fully embraced without hesitation.

In his gloved hands he carried a rectangular shaped box.. and proof he returned from the fight over Atrisia with more than just a few aches and bruises.

The teen wasn’t alone, either. Other Sith flanked him.

Children sprinted past him with wooden toys in their hands. Their laughter echoed in his heart. Lysander’s expression softened before he could stop it, a crinkle forming at the bridge of his nose. Then, seconds later, the warmth was gone. The sight tugged a thought loose.. soon he’d be an uncle, and that fact genuinely excited him.

Cora emerged into view soon, golden strands like sunlight crowning the dais. Approaching gracefully, he gestured subtly towards two of the three who’d joined him. “Meet Varin and Acier; they’re with me today.”

He turned toward the Togruta next; their eyes touched for but an instant. A whisper of amusement brushed his visage before settling on his sister again."And this is Naniti, Cora,” he spoke softly. “She's here to see the celebration.. wouldn't let me come without her."

A nod was offered to Makko as well. “Once an MSE‑6 repair droid.. or just mouse droid,” Lysander began, lifting the box carefully. “Now.. a nightlight! Hums lullabies, and can play ambient sounds if she prefers. Some of the melodies you might remember from when we were young. A touch of home, in a way. Basically, repurposed to patrol the nursery and safeguard naptime.” The corner of his mouth curved playfully. “Death Star vintage.”

​

 

[Naniti]

This... This was something new. A dance beneath the Sith Empress' gaze was breathtaking. Skating on ice on Ilum had been memorable. And each of these were moments they'd shared most didn't think possible by Sith. Today's affair should have been another -- would be, she told herself -- only there was an important difference. This was an open gathering full of countless people, and most notably children. Families, to be precise. Family members holding hands laughing, smiling, buying trinkets.

It made Naniti itch.

This scene was nothing like how her own life had been. It felt fake. It had to feel fake! Even though she knew the problem was with her own circumstances and not those here on Ukatis. Naniti was under no delusion about her infancy and childhood. Not when it all led to her tutelage by a Sith Lord -- someone that had understood her in ways no one else could.

Was she resentful? Envious? Naniti didn't know what she felt as they strode through the crowd. Whatever it was, she knew it was... unpleasant. But, Lysander had a gift to give a member of his family. An act Naniti only knew of from holos. She understood its importance to those that had family even if she couldn't say she knew what it felt like.

They stopped as Lysander stepped forward to offer his gift to Corazona. Naniti continued to smile despite the itch under the skin that just wouldn't let up. Though it did go quiet just for a moment when Lyssander looked back at the Togruta. "Pleasure to meet you, Dowager Princess von Ascania." First impressions. Lysander was close and could get away with familiarity, but Naniti didn't want to make a social mess of things assuming the same. "When I heard of the celebration, I had to come." Admittedly, more for her own selfish interest in being with Lysander than anything else, but... Sometimes even Dark Siders got to play the good social partner card.

A slight shake of the Togruta's head followed Lysander calling it 'Death Star vintage.' Great, a little part of a superweapon designed to annihilate planets. It'd make a great collectible for the tike once they no longer needed a nightlight. Really, thought, it probably would. Good set piece for storytime if nothing else.

Cora was probably being bombarded with guests, so it was unlikely they'd stay long -- though Naniti would wait patiently if she were wrong -- in which case... They fought in the cold often enough back on Desevro. Which left the ax throwing. Yes, she felt that would be an amusing opportunity for them to explore. She'd never thrown an ax before. Never hurt to be terrible at something when your life wasn't on the line.

Lysander von Ascania | Corazona von Ascania | Varin Mortifer | Acier Moonbound | Makko Vyres