Faction Feng's Knighting

[Feng Huang]

Balun Dashiell Ayumi Pallopides Aiden Porte Connel Vanagor Ivy Maro Oryn Selvar Loutaro Juan Raul Conzalla Dominique Vexx Verity Stuyveris Aileni Ifor Xeraic Meri Vale and Open

Feng was feeling good, she was nervous yes, but instead of the anxiety she had felt in the past she felt excitement. Feng had learned after years of struggle her search for calmness as the response to anxiety had been flawed, it was much easier to turn that feeling of anxiety into excitement. It was a positive change of emotions, still a little heightened but only a flutter instead of the overwhelming experience that anxiety could induce.

The reason for her excitement, was today was the day she was going to be knighted! Feng could hardly believe it. One day Master Wu had just bluntly asked what she was waiting for? Feng had hesitated that she wasn't ready, that she still had more experience to go through, perhaps a mission with the military.

Master Wu had wryly asked if she thought a Jedi's purpose was to be a soldier. Feng had been forced to admit that it wasn't. So the question remained what had she been waiting for? Feng didn't have an answer other than her own lingering insecurities which she decided she was sick of holding her back.

Sometimes the only thing to do was to take that brave next step forward. Feng had still insisted on going through the Jedi Temple Trials of course, she hadn't wanted to feel like she had cheated her way to her position. The trials had been challenging but surprisingly Feng found herself relishing them even found some of them fun and the rest insightful. It was tranquil to be applying her skills in an arena that didn't hold life or death in the balance.

Once she had passed her trials Feng organised a date, an invitation list and an open invitation to anyone in the Jedi Order or The High Republic to attend. That in it's own way had been nerve wracking. Feng was a social creature, but she was a little socially awkward and she worried sending out an open invitation or even some of the people on the list would come off a little… over eager.

Nevertheless she decided that the worst thing that could happen was people declining, which would hurt, but she was determined not to let it ruin her day. It also meant Feng got a chance to wear the dress Ayumi had made for her. Feng loved that dress.

Feng approached the garden where the ceremony and reception was taking place. The atmosphere was very Aakaashian, delicate fabric, biodegradable lanterns for the guest to light once the ceremony was completed, and of course the cuisine. Feng mouth watered at the smell of it.

Feng bowed to Master Wu who beamed at her while he eyed some of the delicacies on display, while they waited for the guests to arrive.

"Now now Master Wu no eating till after the ceremony." Feng admonished.

 

[Ayumi Pallopides]

Feng Huang

WHen she had gotten the news well she had been rather excited. She had to come out in support and there was a great many things she wanted to see. So when Ayumi arrived as an unmistakable silhouette as she enters the event, her six-foot-two-inch frame carrying an upright, composed posture that commands the immediate space without demanding it. Her form is lean, the subtle outline of her collarbones and the taper of her waist visible even beneath the layered fabrics. Her smooth, lightly bronzed copper skin offers a healthy, sun-warmed glow, appearing smooth and firm across the bones of her face, a texture that hints at a life spent under Denon's light.

A single, small nick marks the pale skin beneath her lower lip, a thin, white scar that only becomes visible when the corners of her mouth pull upwards into a rare, reserved smile. Her eyes are deep honey, saturated with amber flecks that catch the ambient illumination of the hall, shifting from a soft, warm gold to a richer, deeper umber as the light source varies. The sheer length of her frame is softened by the gentle, fluid movement of her shoulders as she breathes, an unhurried rhythm that counters the formal stiffness of the environment. Her straight, dark-honey hair falls neatly over her shoulders, the silken mass extending past her shoulder blades to brush against the small of her back.

The smooth strands hang without significant wave, a glossy surface that absorbs and reflects light in equal measure. Running through this deep, warm base color are fine, pale golden threads, natural highlights that glisten brightly under the overhead lighting, pulling points of illumination from the crown of her head down to the blunt-cut ends. She wears a crisp, heavy-cotton white button-down shirt beneath her vest, the collar stiff and high enough to frame the column of her neck. Knotted snugly beneath this collar is a formal tie, patterned in bold vertical bands of off-white and metallic gold, lying flat and symmetrical against her chest. Over the shirt, she wears a structured, sleeveless white tunic of thick, durable weave.

The edges and seams of this tunic bear elaborate, raised embroidery in gold thread, featuring tightly coiled swirls, geometric star points, and slender crescent moons that run along the chest and down the length of the bodice. Securing the tunic and shirt at her waist is a wide, white leather belt, its surface smooth and slightly matte, fastened with a thick, rectangular gold buckle that gleams with a polished finish. Suspended from the left side of this belt is a small, functional pouch, crafted from matching white leather and trimmed with a line of gold piping, secured firmly by a magnetic snap clasp. Ayumi was looking at more with a small grin though when she moved.

The sleeves of her white shirt are fitted, ending in crisp, clean cuffs that are banded with thin strips of flat gold, a subtle continuation of the outfit's metallic accents. Below the belt lies a white, heavily pleated skirt, cut to fall to the middle of her thighs, its hem clean and sharp, the individual folds casting narrow, shadowed lines that give the fabric a rigid, structural quality. The starkness of her white and gold attire frames her dark-bronze complexion beautifully, the high contrast drawing the observer's eye immediately to the fine details of her face and the geometric precision of her outfit. The clothing is immaculately pressed, with not a single wrinkle or stray thread visible, suggesting careful preparation for a formal political or diplomatic occasion.

Her posture remains relaxed yet attentive, the weight of her height and the rigid lines of her garments projecting a subtle authority appropriate for a Senator representing Denon. The combination of the scholastic tie and the tactical utility belt creates an interesting duality, blending the formal expectations of a legislative position with the practical readiness required of what is needed. Ayumi stands with a quiet, measured patience, the clean lines and pale tones of her ensemble offering a clear and consistent aesthetic of order, discipline, and understated capability. Her presence fills the immediate threshold, a calm counter to the bustling atmosphere around her.

 

[Balun Dashiell]

FENG'S KNIGHTING
INVENTORY: High Republic Jedi Robes
TAGS: Feng Huang | Ayumi Pallopides

​

Jedi Knight Balun Dashiell had welcomed the invitation to attend Feng Huang's Knighting Ceremony. He had not known the young woman for very long, only having met her since he himself had entered the ranks of the mentor body of the Jedi Order, yet first impressions had impressed upon the young Knight that Feng was a student of great promise.

They had first shared in some Lightsaber sparring, where he had offered some friendly critique, and she had embraced the feedback, turning it into a learning opportunity to improve her skill. Their second meeting had been during a meditation class Balun had led, where she again proved herself well capable in her connection to the Force.

What Balun liked about all of his class students, like Feng, was that they acknowledged their doubts but did not let those insecurities lead them astray. So it was that, upon receiving the invitation, Balun had gladly squared off time in his schedule to attend, in a show of support and pride for her achievements.

The young Jedi Knight arrived in the Gardens where the ceremony was to be held, wearing the formal white-and-gold Jedi robes of the Order, reserved for occasions such as this. A time of celebration and welcoming the accomplished Padawan Learner into Knighthood. The white cloak swayed around his black leather boots with each step, his eyes taking in the beauty of the gardens, appreciating the outdoors and the choice of location for Feng's ascension, surrounded by life and the Force, felt like serene perfection in Balun's mind and spiritual connection.

Positive vibrations all around.

Balun looked to his peers, searching for any familiar faces. It was easy to assume that Oryn Selvar might pop up, given he was certain he had heard rumours of the two sharing a Padawan Clan together. Balun heard a great deal among his fellow Jedi, rarely alone in a place such as Shiraya's Sanctuary, the Order, a place of unity and collaboration within their congregation. With Feng's Knighting, he was certain her friends and peers would look to the completion of her student training with feelings of warmth, pride for her, and a sense of a turning point in their own paths to aspire to.

Former Mentor: Ala Quin
Jedi Apprentice: Cerys Dyn
Major Faction: The High Republic
Sub-Faction: Jhaessa Prime
Conglomerate: Dashiell Incorporated™
Subsidiary Company: Dashiell Retrofit™​

"Speech"
'Thought'​

 

[Aileni Ifor Xeraic]

Outfit: Formal Robes
Tag: Feng Huang | Ayumi Pallopides | Balun Dashiell

Aileni had been surprised by the invitation to a knighting ceremony since he had only really interacted with the other Padawans once so he didn't think he would have left enough of an impression to really be remembered. Instead, he accepted the invitation and found himself trying to find some more formal robes. Ever since he reached his full height, the clothing that he wore was of a better quality. Less homeless Jedi look but that was because he knew everything would remain fitting as long as he remained in the current physical shape he was. The formal robes was something he hadn't really considered since Aileni preferred being active and on mission far more than being based on Naboo.

Probably why the Shadow struggled to retain a Master since he never stuck around to really bond with one.

The Dathomiri Zorren went with something sleeveless, green and probably too many layers but he liked the look and it was comfortable enough that Aileni was happy to wear it. He shaped his hair in the style he always had it in nowadays and made sure that he looked good when taking a moment to look at himself in the mirror. Nodding his head approvingly as he gave a slight smirk on his lips. It was still strange to see himself in such formal Jedi attire but it was never going to be something that would happen for any length of time. Just the rare occasion.

Arriving at the knighting ceremony, Aileni took a look around, seeing if there were any familiar faces currently but didn't note anyone as of yet. It was still early enough that he didn't fret about being surrounded by strangers. For now, he stood at the back, letting others go about and talk to people as Aileni stood there watching. Observing.

 

[Colette]

There were few things that had felt as real to Colette as the day that become a Knight of the Order. It was a measure of recognition for what she had done more than it was a means of telling others who she was. All the little victories and the defeats measured into a single word that — while worthless in and of itself — provided her with something concrete to let herself know that she had accomplished good.

Today it was Feng's turn to feel that pride, as well as the true weight of Jedi's responsibility. There would no longer be any 'master' to hide behind or repercussions to be shielded from. A dire way to look at it, a wholly pragmatic look in Colette's eyes, and undoubtedly something that she knew that the soon-to-be-former Padawan would be capable of.

And while Colette might have been a tad bit underdressed given the presence of actual literal dresses and other finery, she knew that there was just as much weight in the presence of robes. This one styled in the fashion of something the Knights of the Old (old old old old old old) Republic might have worn.

She waited for the procession to begin while doing her best to provide a calm presence for those in attendance.

 

[Connel Vanagor]

Not Every Gathering is Difficult
JEDI TEMPLE
NABOO

Companions/Droids Every Day Gear Locations

• COMPANIONS / DROIDS
  
  • Wife ("Lira Vanagor")
  • Gallinorese Mountain Aak Dog ("Buster")
  • BB4-80 ("Brad")
  • B5-55
  [Any text in brackets signifies comm-link usage and not face to face conversation]
• 
  Rides
  
  • "Enterprise" Station Ship
  • "Jedi Defender" Corvette
  • X-wing
  • Speeder
  • Speederbike
  • Iron Psalm
  Gear
  
  • When in Regular Robes/Gear
    • Lightsaber
    • 5 Throwing Lightknives
  • Headset Microphone Comm-Link
  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

One of the aspects of the New Jedi Order that Connel missed was the open Knighting Ceremonies. Normally, historically it was a private affair, but the New Jedi Order had changed that, believing that other Jedi should witness the ascension of a new Knight. It was a way to strengthen the bonds within the Order, Connel liked that aspect of it and Father had always told him that the Jedi were like a family. True, it did not seem that way with this current Order as much, but that was probably more on him than on others.

As he walked in and looked around, he saw a few familiar faces. Colette was there, of course, and so was Balun Dashiell . He had not seen @Alieni Ifor Xeriac in a while but the Zorren was there as well. It was good to see him making an effort, it was good to see everyone there, it meant that Feng was making a better impression than she had no doubt thought.

Feng Huang • TAGS OPEN
[Text in Brackets is spoken on Comm-link] ~Like this is through the Force~​

 

[Dominique Vexx]

Hopefully her personal invitation hadn't gotten lost in the holonet. If it had, Dominique wouldn't had heeded its absence; even if there hadn't been an open invitation. While the Chancellor hadn't much time spent with the young Feng Huang -- not nearly so much as Ayumi -- they had bumped into one another now and then. Which only meant this delightful occasion demanded attendance. It didn't change the shape of the galaxy, but events that did were predicated on little moments like these. Celebrations of achievement and growth that came not only with time, but dedication.

The Chancellor of the High Republic strode through the garden with a smile perched on her lips. She wore her customary and fashionable white uniform with cuts of royal purple. It was a formal event, after all. Feng deserved a show of respect. And the Jedi Order, of course, wouldn't eschew a little show of respect for them and their ways by the Chancellor either.

"Preening like a mother hen?" Dominique said softly as she stopped along side Ayumi Pallopides . Unlike the Jedi, her friend and Senator didn't need to feign modesty. Not that Ayumi often held back. Feng was a close associate of Ayumi, however, so Dominique fully expected her to feel quite proud of this Knighting.

Balun Dashiell | Aileni Ifor Xeraic | Colette | Connel Vanagor​

 

[Meri Vale]

Meri Vale still was not entirely convinced the invitation had been intended for her.

She had checked it twice after receiving it, then a third time several days later simply to make certain she had not misunderstood something. Knighting ceremonies were important occasions. The sort of events attended by Masters, Knights, senators, diplomats, and people who generally seemed far more significant than archaeology students who spent most of their time buried in ruins. Yet the invitation had remained stubbornly genuine no matter how many times she examined it. Feng had invited her, and declining had never seriously occurred to her.

The gardens were already beginning to fill when she arrived. Lanterns hung among the greenery, soft light catching on white fabrics and formal attire. The atmosphere felt warm, celebratory, and far more elegant than most places Meri usually found herself. She paused briefly near the entrance, quietly taking it all in. Feng was easy enough to spot near Master Wu, while Connel stood among several gathered Jedi. Most of the others were strangers. Some she recognized by reputation alone, though she doubted any of them would recognize her in return.

Which, frankly, suited her perfectly.

Her gray eyes drifted across the gathering until they settled on a figure standing somewhat apart from the growing crowd. Aileni appeared to have adopted a strategy remarkably similar to her own. He stood near the back, observing rather than participating, looking entirely comfortable as the event unfolded around him. Meri found the sight oddly reassuring. At least she was not the only person present who seemed uncertain about where exactly they were supposed to stand.

Rather than approaching immediately, she quietly made her way toward a position near the edge of the gathering where she could observe without drawing attention to herself. It offered a clear view of the ceremony while minimizing the likelihood of becoming involved in conversations with distinguished Jedi she had never met. From there, she folded her hands behind her back and allowed herself a small smile.

Feng looked happy.

That, more than the decorations, the guests, or the formality of the occasion, made the entire journey worthwhile. Whatever lingering doubts Feng might still carry about herself, she had earned this day. Meri knew enough about her to be certain of that. So she settled comfortably into the background, content to watch, support her friend, and avoid becoming noticeable if at all possible.

Which, she suspected, was exactly the sort of thing that guaranteed someone would notice her.

Feng Huang Ayumi Pallopides Balun Dashiell Aileni Ifor Xeraic Colette Connel Vanagor Dominique Vexx

 

[Verity Stuyveris]

​

Verity entered the venue with a kind of uncharacteristic uncertainty.

She was not typically struck with feeling out of place. As a member of Druckenwell's nobility, there were limited doors that would not open for her. And since her election to the High Republic Senate things had gone much the same. But the Jedi Order was a peculiar thing. Part of the Republic and yet apart from it, their ceremonies and traditions were somewhat opaque to the Senator. To observe a Knighting Ceremony, which her Chief of Staff Lucien Varencourt suggested may be akin to some sort of graduation or confirmation, was a rare treat, but she still felt like a fish out of water.

She wanted to ensure she didn't abuse the privilege, or somehow increase the tensions between the Senate and the Jedi Order by putting her foot in it.

She had dressed appropriately, she hoped, in a pale blue skirt suit and ivory blouse. Senatorial without being matronly, and certainly not flashy enough to pull focus from the main event. Minimal jewelry and a nude leather handbag rounded out her ensemble, and inside the handbag she carried a small, sleek velvet jeweler's gift box, within which the custom gold-and-enamel cloak clasp sat. A gold pen, she had replied to Varencourt's suggestion, seemed impractical for a Jedi Knight.

Verity caught site of Ayumi and Dominique across the space and, lifting her chin, began working her way through the attendees to greet them. "Chancellor," she said, lowering her chin deferentially to Dominique. "Senator." She smiled fondly and took them in before switching to a less formal tone now that the niceties had been observed. "Dominique, Ayumi. You both look sensational, as always. Little Feng Huang all grown up. I have a handkerchief in my bag if you feel the need to weep," Verity said confidentially to Ayumi. Ayumi had known Feng longest, but the truth was all three of the women had reason to be grateful to the Jedi. They benefited from the attentive care toward security and safety that Feng provided to Ayumi almost as much as Ayumi herself did.

"Do we think there are going to be snacks after?" Verity murmured quietly to the two women. "I have some pistachios in my purse just in case, but we must be discreet. I didn't bring enough for the whole Jedi Order."

Dominique Vexx | Ayumi Pallopides | Feng Huang
Meri Vale | Balun Dashiell | Aileni Ifor Xeraic | Connel Vanagor | Colette​