For the Lions and the Roses

[Desmond C'artyom]

Desmond rode the lift upwards and inspected the small elevator boredly. He spotted a small security camera, but no smoke alarms. He shrugged and withdrew a small tin and some rolling papers from his coat pocket. He opened the tin and poured a little of bit of its contents into the paper, then stuck the tin back within his pocket. The Chiss licked the papers glue and stuck the new cigarette between his lips. He reached into his pants pocket, grabbed his lighter, and lit the square. The elevator opened and Desmond entered the VIP lounge, cigarette smoking between his lips. He wished he could have a joint of Spice or Bolla, but he was unawares of its legal status in First Order space. He let out another sigh of smoke as he stared round the room. Desmond was unsure what to expect. The initial hype of the ball had been fun, but now…

Desmond enjoyed filthy bars, loose women, and cheap drugs. So, as he meandered through the seclusive lounge he wondered just how much fun he'd really be having hear. He approached the bar and took a seat. Tapping the counter Desmond acquired the bartender's attention.

“What’ll it be sir? Can I interest you in our Champagne?” The man asked the Chiss and Desmond sighed.

More champagne…

“Do you have whiskey? Mix some cinnamon and cherry in it and forget the ice,” Desmond said between puffs of smoke as he boredly propped his head up on the counter with an arm.

The bartender gave him a bemused grin and simply nodded. The chiss stared round the room searching for anyone who looked like they might be a little fun. He was still scanning the room when the Grand Moff entered. Desmond and Inferno One were the Grand Moff’s personal team of assassins. In fact Desmond's role in intelligence focused less on the intelligence aspect and more on covering things up or making others disappear. He really was just an Imperial hitman with a fancy title…

Desmond waved to the Grand Moff and smiled. The bartender set his drink down before him and Desmond stared into the glasses contents as if the pungent liquor might hold the answer to the meaning of his life. He grabbed his smoke and put it out in a nearby ashtray. Desmond lifted his cup of whiskey and smelled the potent alcohol, sniffing for anything that might be poison. Satisfied the drink was clean Desmond took a small sip and was immediately gratified with a fire in his belly

[member="Anya Malvern"] / [member="Ailuros"] / [member="Tanomas Graf"]

 

[WolfMortum]

The good [member="Lady Kay"] was rather in denial as to [member="Darlyn Excron"]'s more colorful of behaviors, Veiere often felt; though perhaps too it could have been his general distrust of those whom allow their emotions to fuel their every move with less emphasis on well thought out planning and instead going for the whole "wing it" attitude that mixed awfully with their Minister of Justice' arsenal of weaponry.

"Just curious whether or not we're going to have a night for ourselves or if we're going to end up baby-sitting again..." Veiere responded somewhat skeptically under his breath; Darlyn and he hadn't found a great deal of contact with one another since the mans incarceration and supposed framing for murder and high theft. They were memories the King of Commenor did not take any enjoyment in reflecting upon, especially discouraged by the man's belief that he could investigate his own case without inciting rumors of corruption among their people of governance.

"I really would prefer it if we could have this alone for a change...Force knows I could do with the break with all that's been occurring lately", though it wasn't common knowledge he had informed his wife of his resignation as Grand Master of the Order upon Deneba, instead passing the mantle on to one [member="Romi Jade"], that his place and reach across the millions of Commenori would receive his full undivided attention in the pursuit of peace and prosperous living across their banners.

The decision had not come without it's share of difficulties, though to be free of the burden he held upon his own shoulders for the blending of political backgrounds and life dedicated to service within the Jedi Order, Veiere was now relieved quite honestly to continue to fulfill the duties that came with his position at Kay's side.

A frequent argument in favor for his actions of late were the vast amount of influence and change that the pair of them could bring on about the sectors of space, systems and cultures that they cared after; it was all simply too large to ignore...-And from a certain perspective, in a manner of speaking, he was still serving the Force and the good of the people from the throne. Perhaps even more so than he could from the Council Chambers back upon Deneba.

[member="Kirie Ito"] soon caught his gaze and squeezing his wife's hand, he would turn her attention in the direction of her friend and colleague. Veiere extending a hand to welcome her towards them, smiling in greeting as the deaf woman would approach them, yet not understanding the signing she and his wife shared.

"It's good to see you, Kirie" He spoke with special care in clearing his voice, not for the sake of her hearing of course but rather the womans ability to lip read for which he presumed she could, His left hand gesturing to her to accompany the smile in the hope of relaying his welcome to her.

[member="Bradshaw Ku"] | [member="Kirie Ito"] | [member="Lady Kay"]​

 

[WolfMortum]

”If you continue to sulk..."

A cold gaze turned back in towards that of [member="Ara Zambrano"], the remainder of her would-be humor passing over his head as the Knight of Ren looked upon the woman who, so often had done before, seemed to be enjoying testing his patience. Hers was attention that beckoned for him to pay heed, though he would admit it not that someone could stand on the outside of priorities in his typical service to Sieger Ren; it was this creature comfort for which Caehl had found in the Pacanth Queen's consistent attempts to eat away at the corners of his stone-walled facade that the Ren had come to apprehensively admire and respect.

As unusual as it was to enjoy the fact that someone could frustrate you so, her motivations for whatever they were in trying to re-introduce individuality to his person, offered more of a care in thought, fleeting yet otherwise far more significant than that which he had received since the incident on Svivren.

"I would sooner indulge you in one of your promiscuous fantasies than be involved in any such idiocy" Brennan quickly retorted to the suggestion of a dance, his eyes finding and locking upon hers, the crimson hue, dark as it were, burned in the moment of banter against her. His humor, though difficult to believe that he held one at all, was often spoken with the driest of regards; too easily taken in all serious nature for those that knew him not. Outside of Ara Zambrano herself, it just happened to be that everyone else within their surrounding environment were far estranged from his typical personality; a comfort he would make the most of for such an appalling waste of credits as this ceremony would be.

They would soon be joined by another pair within the lift however, seeking to take to the VIP route and enter into the main floor; they first would share the brief ascension with none other than [member="Tanomas Graf"] and [member="Desmond C'artyom"]; they two who would be the first to force him into the pretentious play of character, alias and all to keep his true background close to heart. "Greetings..." He responded, offering the two fellow Imperial's a firm nod in acknowledgement and welcome, his former dissatisfaction all but buried beneath the surface in order to save face within public light; "Brennan Cabrol" he added in response, introducing himself and soon turning to glance to Ara that she might follow suit and give whatever name she felt suited her best for this evenings affair.

[member="Tanomas Graf"] | [member="Ara Zambrano"] | [member="Desmond C'artyom"]​

 

[Connor Harrison]

Raijin people watched for a while to see some of the key players in this puzzle and where the pecking order was established. The ivory haired and grizzled face of one [member="Tanomas Graf"] passed through on his way up to the VIP lounge, and carried an air of authority about him.

Raijin took a sip.

The bright red dress [member="Silfe Sosuri"] caught his eye for a moment as she passed. Beyond that, his eyes trailed up to the floors yet to reach and saw many dignitaries stepping out of private lifts and milling by balconies, swirling drinks and talking. [member="Kilian Horne"] and [member="Virginia Schnapp"] could be seen in conversation.

The gathering was coming to life now, and eventually he would move out.

He was still waiting to see who turned up. To see if any of the faces would be ones he recognised. If not, this was going to be a long night.

He took a mouthful, held the drink in his mouth for a second and then swallowed hard.

 

[Kyrel Ren]

The Master of Ren, the Enforcer of Ren and the Supreme Leader himself... Kyrel had arrived not in a suit of armor or as a disfigured monstrosity, but as a fully fleshed human. he had arrived with the Caprine known as Ax'no with whom he had met only weeks earlier. And with them followed her handmaidens as this would have been their first-time off-world, and he had hoped at least for Ax'no's sake they behaved. Kyrel didn't much care for Halm, the desert climate was not something he had cared for, although he did appreciate the architecture of pyramid cities and other structures that had adorned the world, with First Order banners on every street and corner, along with recruitment posters for the stormtrooper corps, Starfighter Corps, the FOSB and various other workings in the machine that was the First Order.

That last time he had attended one of these balls, was when he was a Knight, and now he had come here as a well-known Master. Surely he was not the only one as He was sure other Masters such [member="Ara Zambrano"] and perhaps [member="Samka Derith"] would be there. Not only that the event was open to the First Order's allies, the Galactic Empire, also known as the Imperial Remnant as Kyrel would call them, a splinter group of defectors from the First Order who had been bitter enemies of the First Order, but with recent wars between the Galactic Alliance and Silver Jedi Order, they had finally managed to break bread and recognize one another as common Imperials one and the same regardless of ideological differences. Not only had the Galactic Empire but the CSA had arrived as well. It was truly a time for celebration and a break from the hardships that were experienced throughout the past two years of constant conflict.

He was wearing his familiar dark robes, reminiscent of that of a Knight of Ren, combined with a tunic of an Imperial Officer. After all, this was a formal occasion and he wanted to look his best, as soon as he walked inside he looked around, and saw many different faces as well as different decorations. The sound of music filling his ears as he grabbed a champagne glass from one of the passing waiters and took a sip, as he looked around and saw Ax'no. She was dressed in a very nice gown, her horns even decorated. She looked like a goddess indeed. He walked over to her, making his way through the groups of people lost in merrymaking, as he stood right in front of her saying softly with a smile and letting out a light chuckle. "Greetings Priestess... I thought I would never find you here. It's been far too long since we last seen each other."

@Ax'no

 

[Silfe Sosuri]

She laughed softly at [member="Bradshaw Ku"]. His Hutt joke hadn't Bern funny, but his second attempt at half humor was. She let him take her arm and lead her through the crowd. She rested her other hand on his upper arm and gave it a squeeze as her dark eyes gazed up at his handsome face. She knew this wasnt something was used to. The Prince title had been just that, a title. Now he would have to do the work, or so she had heard from servants gossip. Silfe had learned much from the servants gossip, though she took it all with a grain of salt.

Finally she tore her gaze from her companion and started to look around. Until she did one on one introductions with people, their faces would likely blur together. Silfe was brand new to the position of Minister of Foreign Affairs for Commenor. She had not had time to learn everyone of importance from every system of government across the galaxy that she might need to know. The list was too vast, especially for how short a time she had had. Still, she gazed around to find familiar faces. First and foremost, [member="Lady Kay"], [member="Veiere Arenais"], and [member="Kirie Ito"], the assistant were on her mind.

She briefly caught the attention of a man she didn't know. [member="Raijin"] was handsome but he didn't seem like he was all that happy here. She gave him a kind smile and continued to walk on in search of her people.

A small woman came up with a bucket as they would all night and asked for donations. It was common for one to give multiple times throughout the evening. Silfe reached into the hidden pocket of her dress and pulled out the first of several credit chips. Then she tossed it onto the bucket and waited for Bradshaw to do the same.

 

[Zeradias Mant]

The event garnered even more attendees than he'd anticipated, and the ball was still in it's opening hours. Kuril wore the typical formal attire as most men did. To those who didn't recognize the face, he was another indistinguishable but esteemed guest of the First Order. The vast majority of those in attendance where here for pleasure - but Kuril was here for work. While skills such as computer science and other more primitive survival skills were essential in numerous contingencies, security was the one that kept things from falling too far from grace. Security, is where Kuril excelled.

He didn't start with the crowds. He'd wait for everyone to be in. Once entry and exit traffic was minimized, then he would join the crowd. For now though, he maintained a presence in the control room the FOSB had established. Numerous monitors flashed different scenes from the ball, and everything was going as smooth as it could have been.

"Sir, we may have something.", one of the staff officers called out. Kuril approached the man who hovered over another agent, monitoring a security entrance.

"One 'Kyle Amedis' has been admitted to the event. He's the commander of the White Wolves.", the agent started speaking. Obviously not picking up what the agent was putting down, the agent continued. "The White Wolves disbanded after Kaeshana. They're not recognized by Central Command as an active unit."

Biting his lower lip, Kuril nodded.

"Send agents to intercept. I'd like a word."

- - - - - - - - - - - -​

​

​

​

Hand lifted to his earpiece, the Security Bureau special agent listened intently to the orders from control. This was coming straight from the deputy director. With a subtle nod, the agent resumed normal activity as he looked around the room briefly to hone in on the White Wolves' commander's location. It took some weaving through the crowd and a little bit of passive aggressiveness, but eventually he found his man. He lifted a glass from a patron's hand and took a sip. He winced slightly at the taste. It wasn't Corellian, that's for sure.

"Commander Amedis!", he exclaimed as he approached the man with a nonchalant confidence, hand extended. "It is such an honor to meet you. I've heard so much about the White Wolves, they're one of the First Order's fiercest fighting units." The praise was short lived though.

"Oh, I'm so sorry. I forgot to introduce myself.", he said as he reached inside his coat pocket. Pulling out a wallet, he opened it with one hand to reveal Security Bureau credentials.

"Special Agent Eldric Walton. Would you come with me please?"

[member="Raijin"]​

 

[Connor Harrison]

A rahter pleasent smile from [member="Silfe Sosuri"] was returned. Raijin watched her walk by and - he felt it. There.

There it was. The catch on the end of the hook. Heightened movement in the mingling crowd in the front lobby was easy to spot, as many were going into the grand ball, not coming through towards where Raijin was stood, swirling his drink.

A smiling face and an eager hand out for a welcome, and a man buzzing with all the activity of an undercover agent. Raijin smiled and finished the remainder of his drink by the time he had finished his introduction, and then presented his official identification.

He slipped the drink onto the platter of a passing waitress and rubbed his hands. There was no need to let on his position quite yet, there was no need for trouble, even if he did look just like another suited official.

”So glad somebody pays attention other than the security on the door. Shall we?”

Raijin shot him a smile, and held his hand out to walk on by with. He stuck close and would walk beside Agent Walton, a man who looked like he lived to do his job; clean cut, a little young but full of passion for his role and his duty.

”It’s a shame about the White Wolves, Agent Walton. Please pass on my apologies to Commander Amedis when he is brought in and punished for losing his invite and letting the drink turn him into a blabbing fool. It’s a good job I’m no rebel terrorist, isn’t it not?”

All the while, his voice was calm, rather matter of face and jovial as not to dampen the mood. He glanced around to see just where he was going in relation to the hive of activity as the music pulsated deeper within the grand building.

[member="Kuril Vehn"]

 

[Adron Malvern]

Stepping out from his speeder, the former Count of Serenno had an all too pleased expression crossing his face. As his cane connected with the surface beneath him he ran a hand down the lapel of his luxury slate suit. Hugging his form the material was a rather intricate blend of silks, making it impressively comfortable.

On his right lapel there was a small badge, carrying the Imperial seal to show his allegiance. On the sister lapel was the emblem of his house, made of a similar material.

The Imperial High Moff strode towards the building, making his way inside and immediately scanning the room. With both his eyes and the Force he would reach out, combing through the many guests in attendance.

He could sense those touched with the Force, as well as an all too familiar imprint in the ever twisting nether.

"Anya." He smiled softly, clasping both hands on his cane before peering at the bar nearby. "Well. May as well be social." Approaching two familiar faces he spoke out, his voice calling to the Grand Moff and his trusted soldier. "I hope I didn't miss much." He said, inclining his head to the men before him.

"Grand Moff, Major, it is good to see you again."

[member="Tanomas Graf"]

 

[Kay-Larr]

Kay raised a brow, staring straight ahead while [member="Veiere Arenais"] spoke of what he wished that the night's events would entail, as well as what he didn't want. His faith and trust in [member="Darlyn Excron"] wasn't as strong as her own. At times she understood why, yet the loyalty and dedication that he had shown her was morethan what she could say about others. And just like him, she too had a habit of not always thinking things through and just reacting. It was a hard habit to break, but not impossible.

"Alright dear. I'll try to avoid talking politics and hopefully all others that happen to gather here behaves themselves as well." She wasn't sure who else was going to arrive tonight. Would she know anyone else besides Veiere?

That answer changed quickly the moment that [member="Kirie Ito"] approached them. Veiere had squeezed Kay's hand gently before he responded to her, inviting the assistant to engage in conversation with them. It had been a little while since she had seen Kirie last. There were times that Kay had visited her in recovery, but always Kirie was sleeping. She didn't have the heart to wake her up, yet kept an eye on her progress as she felt somewhat responsible for what had happened to her. At least all was not lost.

Kay smiled to her when she caught her eye and began to sign: ~You're not interrupting. We've only just arrived. How're you doing? It's good to see you on your feet again.~ Her trust in the young assistant didn't waiver, despite what had happened on Kwenn Station. It just wasn't under her control.

Just behind Kirie, she caught sight of [member="Bradshaw Ku"] walking in with [member="Silfe Sosuri"] . So much for the idea of not babysitting. As much as she liked the newly promoted Minister of Foreign Affairs, she just wasn't so sure about her son delving into his playboy ways. For both their sakes, she hoped that he wouldn't jump into anything too quickly.

 

[Ax'no]

Kyrel Ren's instincts about the handmaidens were correct. When left to their own devices, they were likely to cause as much mischief and mayhem as two spirited, nymph-like Caprine could, especially in a room full of starched and humorless military types. But luckily Ax’no had the duo well-trained, at least when she was around. Now if she were to slip off with the handsome, dark-haired human somewhere, they might be free to drink, frolic and annoy fellow party goers. Or delight them depending upon their tastes.

“It has been, Master Kyrel,” the Priestess said with her normal deference to her suitor. The Caprine prophetess may have been regaled as a goddess by her people, but her manners were quaint, traditional and somewhat archaic. If anything, the outward display of obedience to Kyrel kept her off the First Order’s radar since she was technically an outsider.

“You remember Livna. But I don’t know that you’ve met Saira yet.” The blonde and brunette maidens curtsied to Kyrel, the stark difference between them not necessarily their hair color, but the fact that Saira’s horns were mere stubs which had been sawed off at the base. Juxtaposed against the two other Caprine with their elaborate, curling and towering horns, it made her appear somewhat incomplete. He may have recalled Ax’no saying something to him about removing the horns herself as punishment.

“In the time we’ve been away, I have a proposition for you. But it’s best to talk away from keen ears and prying eyes.” She sipped the flute filled with golden bubbles. “Perhaps later. Is there anyone you would like for me to meet now?” Truthfully, the Caprine Priestess was so glad to see the human again, she wasn’t even sure if she felt up to all of the small talk, but then again, Ax’no never passed up an opportunity to play the divine seer if one so wished.

[member="Kyrel Ren"]

 

[Bradshaw Ku]

Bradshaw beamed inwardly when [member="Silfe Sosuri"] gave his upper arm an affectionate squeeze. It was a smile matching the one he wore on the outside, primarily for the benefit of his lovely date. He was happy to be here only because he was here with her.

The smitten playboy Prince still wasn’t used to being so taken with a woman. Sure, the “company” of beautiful women wasn’t new for the former smuggler and pilot. The further than skin-deep attraction he felt for her, however, was. It was such new, untrodden territory, that much of the time when he was with her he felt as if he were behind the wheel of a still unfamiliar vehicle he’d just driven off the lot, one so new it still had the galaxies’ best scent -- that new landspeeder smell.

It was exciting and novel, but, usually polished around women, at least when he wanted to be, he sometimes found himself at a loss for the right words or actions with her. That is to say, the well-worn manual to his old landspeeder wasn’t of much use for this new one. He was still looking for where the new one had been hidden. If it existed at all.

Dam, maybe the Blodda the Hutt gag had been a bit too far.

While Silfe eagerly scanned the crowd of party-goers, probably trying to commit them to memory or some such political practice, he guessed, as they walked amongst some of the most powerful, wealthy, and influential people in the galaxy, his own eyes darted around, passing from one expensive suit or dress to the next. His attention, however, had much less to do with who anyone was and more to do with trying to avoid anyone who might look a little too eagerly in their direction. He just couldn’t imagine trying to talk-up some old Imperial Moff, or worse, a too serious Knight of Ren.

For a moment, he wondered if a distress call to his mother, sent through the force like the one he’d employed while he lay dying during the Incursion of Kwenn Station, was called for. Of course, he wouldn’t do such a thing, it would scare her half-to-death, and not in a funny way. Still, the jester in him, trying to keep those painful moments from the recent past from reaching the surface, joked to himself that the situation was nearly as dire. They couldn’t dodge the crusty politicians forever.

His attention was stolen away by the approach of a small woman brandishing a donation bucket. Silfe promptly reached into a pocket and dropped in her gift. Then waited for him to do the same.

He started to reach for his inside pocket.

“You know, I’m not sure I ever received my last paycheque for my expert services rendered to the First Order a few years ago. Maybe I should count that as my donation? What do you think, Silfe?” He asked while pulling out a couple high denomination credit ships.

A cheeky smirk and raised brow signalling to her that he was only joking. He snapped his fingers, “Actually,” he exclaimed as if having just remembered something important, “Now I remember, I had someplace better to be that last month.”

The chips clinked into the bucket. He’d clearly been joking, but it was a joke born from the truth.

Using the force, he gingerly lifted two Champaign flutes from one of the endless number of passing servers, the crystal floating into his open hands. He offered Silfe one. “It’s a travesty that I haven’t told you how beautiful you are tonight. So, I’ll do it now. You’re simply stunning, minister, as always." He smiled warmly.

He was about to say more, but as he glanced quickly over her shoulder, he noticed his parents and [member="Kirie Ito"] standing by the far wall.

“And look,” he gestured in their direction with is head, “our game of hide-n-seek is over. We win.”

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

 

[Silfe Sosuri]

The donation collection girl smiled wide, thanked them very kindly and left to collect from others. She laughed softly at his jokes because they were good. It was nice that he was still as funny as he had been the first day they had met. [member="Bradshaw Ku"] was smart and witty. She thoroughly enjoyed both traits in him. Even though she should have been watching the people of the party, trying to determine who they were and start talking to make connections, she found that she really just wanted to hear more from the man before her.

The champagne flute floating to him had her eyes wide. Silfe knew he was a Force user, but had never seen it in practice. In fact, she had so little experience with any Force talented individual, that it all seemed quite impressive. His next words, a compliment on her appearance, had her blushing deeply. Her delicate hand raised to her burning cheek. Her rare experience with Force using was almost as rare as a genuine compliment from the opposite sex. "Thank you." She replied breathily, unable to fully voice the words due to the fact he had utterly stolen her breath away.

As he pointed out his parents, she turned and looked to see both [member="Lady Kay"] and [member="Veiere Arenais"] but quickly turned back. "Oh my. And here I am blushing like mad. Is it warm in here or is it just me? I can't have your mother seeing me like this." Silfe looked panicked. It was her turn to be uncomfortable in the surroundings. "Why did you have to go and be so .... expressive?" she hit his arm half joking as she desperately tried to cool her face off.

 

[Jotham Noktis]

After a rather sumptuous looking landspeeder had flown through the midnight sky and had parked itself in an assembly of other speeder-esque vehicles, a Rear Admiral, Jotham Noktis, made his presence known by stepping off from the opulent landspeeder. After he had stepped out of the vehicle, roughly five other high-ranking naval officers followed the admiral closely out of the speeder as some sort of retinue. Each of them were dressed in their regulation Imperial naval uniforms with the exception of Noktis, whom which wore a dark, hoodless cape.

As Noktis and his retinue neared the front entrance together, one officer of the officer piped up from the relative silence; "Hmph, an impressive spectacle. Noktis, you're an accomplished scholar are you not? Have you any knowledge on this planet?", inquired the officer. The entourage had been walking past a vast assortment of other celebrities and government workplace officials as the conversation ensued.

"Aye. This arid planet that we are staying on, known as Halm, at least to my knowledge, is known for it's mines and mineral resources.", he replied, continuing forward. "And, if I could be so bold to remember from my scholarly days, it's architecture is more-or-less inspired from the depictions in the planet's historical records."

Just as the admiralty finished speaking, the retinue had already neared the front door that encompassed a large number of other men and women dressed in their formal clothes. As one of the officers commented, it was a spectacle to behold. The retinue passed a security check, as they walked in through the greater complex of the hotel. The main room of the feast was packed, the Rear Admiralty thought to himself. At a personal level, he didn't enjoy being around so many different people in such an overtly robust, unpredictable, and gregarious environment. However, he was renown for his cool and collective nature; seeing through him was as futile as a lightsaber trying to cut through phrik.

He continued on his way through the party, he exchanged a few smirk-lined nods and gestures to a few select number of people he knew would attend this endeavor. His fellow subordinate naval officers continued to follow him closely, it was obvious a keen sense of selfish-ambition laid deep in their hearts from the look in their eyes and their posturing and treatment towards their superior officer; Jotham possessed an astute judge of character. The Rear Admiral kept them along for the ride; they even insisted on renting the same luxurious shuttle they had flown in on for their 'highness'. He was being pampered, and although he was arrogant, he was self-aware; he knew he didn't deserve any special treatment for the kind of man that laid in wait behind closed doors.

The Rear Admiral neared closer to the Galactic-Imperial corner of the party, that hosted Desmond C'Artyom, High Moff Adron Malvern, and the Grand Moff himself, Tanomas Graf.

"A spectacle to behold, this 'palace' is.", the Rear Admiral said, introducing himself, "It's splendid to see all of you here, gentlemen. How has the night fared in treating you all?"

[member="Tanomas Graf"] [member="Desmond C'artyom"] [member="Adron Malvern"]

 

[Natasi Fortan]

Virginia took another swig of her champagne and looked away diplomatically at [member="Kilian Horne"]'s declaration that she was scandalous, catching Darrell's eye with a confidential version of her trademark smirk over the rim of her glass, only to see that he was taken aback by her remark. "You'll have to forgive me, Darrell, Moff Horne. There is, perhaps, a slightly different sense of propriety on Eriadu where I was brought up and Tion and -- where was it you were from, again, Moff Horne?"

Of course, Virginia had seen his dossier before his appointment was confirmed, but she didn't want him knowing that.

"Poor Moff Calinda. First his wife gets some awful childbed fever -- well, it was her choice to have a natural birth on Thakwaa instead of an honest-to-goodness hospital -- and then he picks up some sort of viral plague. I do hope they've sanitized their home. I'd hate for him to bring it to a Cabinet meeting and kill you all." She glanced over her shoulder, half-expecting Petyr Calinda himself to be there, but instead she saw the golden-haired fellow across the lobby speaking to Grand Moff Fortan's equally golden-haired husband, [member="Talbot Vitalis"]. "Look," she murmured with a quiet, mischievous undertone to the two men. "The blond leading the blond," she said before snorting a giggle. She sipped another sip of champagne, then nearly choked on it as she suppressed another giggle. "But," she squealed, dabbing her lips with her cocktail napkin, "which is which?"

This was apparently too much for the red-headed operative, and she threw her head back to peals of laughter, at a pitch that strained credulity, and saved from raucous volume only by the fact that she couldn't seem to catch her breath.

 

[Ara Zambrano]

A true smile bloomed at [member="Caehl Ren"] ‘s retort, eyes sparkling, teeth showing, the laughter bubbling within held back only by the opening of the lift doors as they arrived. Turning that blinding, slightly wicked smile in his direction, she allowed a soft chuckle to flow into her words, all too aware of the attention they’d already garnered by those present in the VIP lounge.

”That would hardly be a fitting punishment for your sulking.”

The corners of her eyes crinkled with mirth, the easy expression pleased with the momentary break in his stone façade, a saucy wink thrown in for his benefit. Most would have missed the humor in his statement entirely, the boy who acted as her warden one who was prone to deadpan commentary rather than the light-hearted banter that was far more common. She might have pressed more, surprised that he had so willingly engaged in her flirting in such a public venue, had another not approached.

Shifting with subtle movements of muscle, her expression softened into one of polite interest and welcome, the socialite from Coruscant coming to the forefront in light of the two gentlemen who approached her small retinue. Crimson eyes flecked in amber roved over the crisp white uniform, adorned with gold pauldrons that gave off his station before his words did, his identity confirmed as he identified himself, both pairs coming to pause before each other. Adjusting her grip on Brennan’s arm, applying enough pressure to remind him that she was present, she awaited his reaction to the former Real Admiral, a man many of the more zealot of their order would consider a traitor.

Pleased to watch the Knight’s dissatisfaction disappear in front of their guests, a small bubble of humor bloomed in her gut as she imagined [member="Samka Derith"] ‘s reaction to her guard introducing himself first, the subtleties of etiquette passing over the young man’s head. Perhaps, she considered with a dark amusement, he should attend a session with the violet-haired teen. Offering a half bow, one soldier to another, she turned her attention to [member="Tanomas Graf"], matching his introduction with her own, flashing a polite smile at the Chiss who accompanied the Grand Moff.

”Ara Zambrano, Arch-Queen of Panatha and the Pacanth Reach. A pleasure, Grand Moff.”

Tilting her head to let her partially bound hair fall over her right shoulder, she deftly plucked a glass of champagne from an offered waiter, the sparkling gold liquid reflecting the lights and colors of the clothing surrounding. The Master longed for something harder, a nice Corellian Brandy perhaps, but knew that this was not the event to indulge in her favorite spirits, one more drastic change in her life since the First Order had installed her on the Panathan throne. Her choice of a soldier’s greeting rather than a monarch’s was calculated, a move to insure that those who watched, noting her small attaché as a sign of weakness rather than what it was, confidence in her own abilities, were not mistaken by her dress and her title.

More and more guests filtered into the grand palace, a few joining their ranks in the plush and secluded suite, the Queen inclining her head politely to those who joined, making note of the sigils adorning the lapels of another older gentleman who approached, the Imperial seal far more familiar to her than that of his house. Taking a moment to memorize the lines of the unfamiliar crest, she cast her gaze to his face instead, a darker smile blooming as his Force Signature grew in her mind. As each new member joined, their small group growing, her interest and curiosity grew exponentially.

Another Imperial officer approached, the sigils and bars on his uniform easily identifying him as a Rear Admiral of the Galactic Empire. A beautiful smile and bow of the head would greet each of them as they moved close enough to notice the presence of the small girl and her bodyguard, hidden as they were by the more dominating figures of the Grand Moff and his soldier. A light laugh and honeyed tones dripping into her words, as she offered a simple welcome.

”Evening, gentleman. The First Order is most pleased by your attendance and support.”

[member="Desmond C'artyom"] | [member="Adron Malvern"]​

 

[Riamah]

When Anya approached the clearly in awe feline, Ailuros turned around to look at the red head. Her eyes lit up and she gave her a warm smile. They may have gotten off to a bad start when they met, but time had passed and the two of them were now friends. The fear Anya had for feline races had subsided at least for Ailuros.

Looking at the other woman, the young trianni nodded.

"Thank you, you look beautiful too. I'm sure your husband will think so as well."

Her eyes looked to the ​entrance and she pointed him out as he walked in. Moving past them, he did notice Anya was there as well, but didn't stop.

Her ears tipped forward and her head tilted curiously. Where was he going? Seeing Anya have a drink, she wondered if they would give her one too. Nobody had yet allowed her to drink thinking she was too young, but Ailuros really wanted one and walked over to the server. Picking up one and actually getting her paws on, she smiled thanks and returned to Anya.

Waving her tail as she took her first drink ever, she felt it land on another person. Taking the drink in one large gulp, she turned around to see who she had hit with it. If she was able to blush she would have, instead being embarrassed, she started making a slight coughing noise.

"I am so sorry, sir. Didn't not mean to hit you with my tail."

[member="Anya Malvern"] [member="Bradshaw Ku"] [member="Silfe Sosuri"]

 

[Anya Malvern]

She felt so.eone entering she knew all to well, she couldn't help but smile knowing he was back as she turned to look at him, she looked to the cat a a she chuckled

I'll have to go see him in a minute, for now let me finish this drink with you

She wondered why he didn't come right over, then again he probably saw she was talking and wanted to be polite. She watched the cat drink that champagne down quickly as she covered her mouth to laugh and then stepped back winking as she saw her tail hit the man

good luck hehehe

She patted her back and moved away making a path to adron as she slowed seeimg him all dressed up in the finest clothing and a cane. She couldn't help a smile as she came up to the group and bowed her head as she leaned in to whispered to @adrom Malvern

good to have you back, I trust things have went well

[member="Ailuros"] [member="Ara Zambrano"] [member="Tanomas Graf"] [member="Desmond C'artyom"]

 

[Jairdain]

The newest person the party was Jairdain. She wore what would have been considered a formal gown of her people. If nothing else, her dress should be unique.

A beaded veil covered the top and back of her black hair, green beads came across her forehead. Mostly a dark red in color, it was striped with pale shades of pink, green and orange. Beads worked into the whole thing almost made her appear to glow. The top was form fitting with short sleeves and was a light tan, almost cream in color. It was also beaded, but way less than her veil. The beads on her chest and torso were clear, but where there was knitting, the beads matched it the same color as the veil. The skirt was to the floor and contained no beads, the tone was the same pale tan at the top.

One thing that did not impress the knight was the beauty, being blind, she couldn't see it. That didn't mean she couldn't enjoy herself or imagine what the area looked like around her. Walking in, through the Force, she could see the people milling around and knew some of them. Heading over to where Lady Kay and her husband were along the wall, she nodded in respect to the both of them with a smile. It had been a long time since she had met Veiere.

"Good evening. I hope I'm not interrupting anything."

On thinking about it, this would be the second time Jairdain had been a guest of the First Order. Would they remember her?

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

 

[Kirie]

Kirie offered [member="Veiere Arenais"] a small smile, unable to communicate with him, and took his invite to join them, facing the pair to form a loose circle.She nodded deeply at Kay, unable to hide the relief that she was adressed normally. Her mouth pulled tight at the Queen's question about her health, but she did her best to hide her expression quickly, instead signing I have healed all I can, my Lady. Thanks to the work of Commenor's doctors and carers I have regained the use of my legs. But at what cost? Said a voice in her head. She ignored it. She signed once again to the Queen. How are you, my Lady? Have I missed much in my absence?

Looking over their shoulders, Kirie spotted [member="Silfe Sosuri"] and [member="Bradshaw Ku"]. Strangely, Silfe had turned around as if to avoid detection as soon as Kirie had spotted her, but Bradshaw still stood, blissfully unaware, until he was punched in the arm. The odd scene was enough to warrant a small laugh for Kirie. The first in quite some time. She motioned to Lady Kay to turn around, and waved over the pair, thankful to be out of the spotlight for a time.

Kirie kept her back turned as [member="Jairdain"] approached, and, being deaf, she missed the woman's greeting. She kept hert attention on the Prince and Minister, even as the woman approached behind her, completely unaware.

[member="Jairdain"] | [member="Silfe Sosuri"] | [member="Bradshaw Ku"] | [member="Lady Kay"] | [member="Veiere Arenais"]​