Populate Foundation Day | Populate of Kor Vett & Almas

[Pillar of Hope]

The people of Naboo and neighboring planets gather in the capital city of Theed to honor the great Kalantha as she ascends to the coveted role of High Chancellor of the High Republic. Her wisdom and grace delivered the Royal Republic through the harshest of time, inspiring not only her citizenry, but a new generation of public servants who rise to the challenges presented to their democracy.

Among them, Sibylla Abrantes , Bastila Sal-Soren , and Aurelian Veruna all stand poised to brave the long shadow of their predecessor and claim the title of Sovereign of Naboo, shaking hands, exchanging smiles, and mingling with the revelers whose favor they hope to win in the upcoming election. Each one carries the ambition to lead, but only one can be chosen to shape the destiny of Naboo beside the emerging High Republic.

Citizens and allies of the High Republic take to the streets in solidarity; music booms throughout as countless entertainers dazzle the masses in the hours leading up to the celebration. Many have already gathered at the Palace Plaza in preparation for an evening few would soon forget.

Recommended Activities:
Politicians: shake hands and campaign with the citizens of Theed and The High Republic.
Everyone else: visit one of the many booths that've been set up for the celebration to buy commemorative tokens, trinkets, food, or other activities, watch and/or participate in the parade.

While the festivities rage across Naboo, the Jedi gather together in the hallowed halls of Shiraya’s Sanctuary to honor one of their own.

Aiden Porte , son of the late Kahne Porte (the revered Guardian of Peace) stands on the precipice of a new chapter. Having served faithfully as a Padawan across multiple orders, beginning with the NJO and finding his true path with the Shirayan Order, Aiden has endured trials that tested not only his strength, but his spirit.

In the most recent Netherworld conflict, Aiden played a pivotal role in holding the Gatehouse, a critical nexus between the Netherworld and the galaxy, long enough for the Shirayan Vanguard, the Council of Light, and innocent lives to escape. It was a battle that cost him his father, who made the ultimate sacrifice. And yet, Aiden stood fast. Not just in defiance of darkness, but in defense of life, hope, and the legacy his father entrusted to him.

Now, gathered in the tranquil heart of Shiraya’s Sanctuary and surrounded by his closest friends, comrades, and fellow defenders of the light, Aiden will be recognized for what he has become. The Council of Light, acknowledging his courage, resilience, and selflessness, invites all to witness the Knighting of Aiden Porte: a warrior forged in trial, and a Guardian born of loss.

His vigil ends. His trials are through. His journey as a Jedi Knight begins.

Recommended Activities:

Watch Aiden be officially Knighted, congratulate him.

Previous Threads:
Velvet Knives | The First Chancellor's Debate
​

 

[Ayumi Pallopides]

Naboo was a place she hadn't been too in a long time. When Cato had told her there was a gathering... a celebration she viewed it as a means to well meet and greet the people who was throwing her lot in with. Denon was represented by Dominique Vexx and she would support her with the technological advantages for food and other means thaty Upcity had to offer. Walking in her newest powersuit as they had coined it the sleek tie-less shirt was there and she forwent the coat. Naboo would be nice weather generally and she wouldn't need it. She focused on the suit to heavily conceal her presence in the force. Few jedi outside of the Republic like Kahne, Ben or Romi Jade knew her as a force user and she preferred it that way.

She left using the azure from Denon and arrived in the starport as she looked up and at some of the others. Hands going into the jacket she had before she was moving swiftly with a small grin on her face. The specialized heels that she could wear adding a little to her height but they were gleaming with a slick shine to the black leather look of the materia. She remained at the ready and was mostly looking to see if there was anyone she recognized.. the names changed but positions remained the same and she couldn't just be around Vexx... she could but there had to be a chance to network with the others as she was through Vexx also offering much of their terraforming and production technologies. "Well fun times ahead."

 

[Sibylla Abrantes]

​

The two attendants assigned to Sibylla by her father carefully applied another thin layer of kohl along the young woman's lash line. She was, by far, the very picture of youthful Naboo beauty.

A hammered gold circlet adorned her brow, its fleur-de-lis citrine jewels catching the light. Around her throat, they fastened the final touches of an intricate chain necklace, followed by the placement of an ivory and gold veil upon her head.

By all accounts, the sheer fabric revealed just enough while concealing the brunette beneath, making her the perfect portrait of a worthy candidate for the throne of Naboo.

"There is enough Karlini silk woven into the dress to protect you, my lady. We are with you," one of the young women said softly, smoothing a crinkle from the gold and ivory skirt. With one assassination attempt and then the death of Sham Tapalo, every precaution had been taken as the date of the election drew near.

"Thank you," came the reply, quiet but assured.

A moment later, another figure joined them. This time, the inspection was sharper, eyes combing for any imperfection.

"Perfect," was the only reply, followed by a faint, reassuring smile. Hands came up to clasp and gently squeeze hers. "Ready?"

"Ready," the Ambassador affirmed.

As the Daughter of Abrantes exited, the lone attendant behind lingered. She paused for only a heartbeat before turning her gaze toward the sound of the ongoing revelry. There was precious little time. She had to act fast.

Without further ado, Sibylla lifted the dark attendant cowl over her head, shadowing her features. She had someone to meet, whether he liked it or not.

Moving quickly, she slipped down a corridor, taking the opposite route from her decoy. Her destination: the area where the other candidates were likely gathered just before their entrance to the festivities. There would be private suites each with attendants coming in to assist as needed.

She had a limited amount of time before she was expected to mingle with the crowd and had tasked Cassian Abrantes to help maintain the facade until she returned.

Whether she could find Aurelian Veruna within that window of time remained uncertain.

But Sibylla was going to try.

 

[Kyric]

​

Within the confines of the Jedi Order's grand temple, its many adherents surged through the halls all throughout the day in preparation for a moment of great import. Many knew Aiden Porte to be a Jedi of the highest caliber. Forged in the fires of the nether, he shouldered not only the burden of duty, but also of loss. Those who knew his tragic tail often regaled others with dramatic retellings of those dark moments, to honor the sacrifice of the late Kahne Porte and seek inspiration in the strength of the Guardian's still-living son. It was a truly beautiful thing to behold.

A sense of brotherhood strengthened in community.

When Kyric Karis first visited the New Jedi Order, these were the moments he yearned for. To find peace beside the Order his father built brick by brick; ingrained with the blood, sweat, and tears shed in the hardest years of Ryv's life. Unfortunately, such memories were wiped away in the aftermath of Tython. The late Sword of the Jedi disappeared into legend as quickly as his successor rose to prominence. Thousands of battles fought across thousands of planets. An endless stream of sacrifice not for the benefit of kith and kin, but for the Jedi who even now took for granted everything the late Jedi Master stood for.

All these years later and Kyric still felt bitter. And now, elevated to an entirely undeserved position in an Order full of strangers, he was expected to stand side-by-side in celebration of a man he knew nothing about.

Where was the justice in that?

Buried within his apartment nestled in some scarcely visited hall of the temple proper, Kyric stared silently at a holoprojection of his father, himself, and his three siblings. The blue light depicted their final moments together as a family, taken only hours after Dagon showed up to beg for Ryv's return to the warfront. His siblings, Kyla, Vhi, and Losa crawled all over their father like a jungle gym, while Kyric stood at his father's side, his face twisted up in an effort to fight back the many tears shed in the aftermath of Ryv's departure.

Kyric deactivated the device and slipped it into his pocket. He quietly readied himself, going through the motions he repeated each and every day, his features devoid of the joy he showed the galaxy. In the safety of his isolated apartment, he knew not the lofty expectations shoveled upon him by the Legacy left in his father's passing. Even the echoes of the past were a distant thing. Momentarily buried beneath the mountain of unresolved grief.

The kiffar clipped Resolute to his left side, then his newly constructed lightsaber to his right. He ignored the ceremonial robes delivered to his dorm days prior in favor of the training attire granted to him by Inosuke. It was comfortable more than anything else, but it also felt right—like it belonged on Kyric. He covered his arms in a layer of bandages, more to hide the scars crisscrossing his skin than anything else, and he pinned an old, tattered black cloak around his neck as if the kiffar expected snow.

With nothing left to procrastinate, Kyric departed his apartment and trudged across the temple to where the Knighting Ceremony awaited.

---

Tags: Open

 

[Pari Sylune]

Location: Sanctuary on Naboo
Activity: View Knighting Ceremony

Pari had never been to a knighting ceremony before. She was interested to see how a Jedi advanced to the next rank. Her teak colored eyes scanned the halls as she moved through the sanctuary, heading towards the place where the other Jedi were gathered. She had not yet met Aiden, though most spoke of him in high regard within the Temple so she assumed his knighting was well earned.

As Pari entered the gathering she smiled at those present and waited patiently for the ceremony to begin.

 

[Dreidi Xeraic]

Location: Naboo
Outfit: Jedi Attire
Companion: Grisial
Equipment: Lightsaber, Nightsister energy bow, Ichor sword
Tag: Aiden Porte

This was something that Dreidi considered to be a long time coming. Aiden had been a close friend of hers, the closest friend for a long time, that Dreidi had. Sticking through her angst and recklessness during their time together in the NJO and then coming here, to Naboo, she had seen him develop even more. He had endured a lot with the loss of his father and everything that happened with the dead girlfriend as well. It was a life that seemed to be plagued with a lot of sadness and torture to Aiden's soul. Which was why Dreidi always tried her hardest to ensure her friend had moments of positivity and fun.

While she also pranked him and teased him. Always easy too, especially after she got more talented with her Magick.

For today, Dreidi decided to keep things chill and ensure that Aiden was celebrated and praised to the maximum. Something she long waited for since she had told him for ages that he deserved to be knighted. Dreidi wore her Jedi attire and had Grisial by her side, wandering through the crowds' legs as he followed Dreidi to where she stood. Not too far away but not too close to where Aiden was being knighted. Somewhat attempting to get lost within the crowd as she watched her friend achieve the next step in his life as a Jedi.

It was a stark contrast to the ceremony that Dreidi had when she was knighted, something that was held between herself and her Master. Something that was intimate but reflection on the fact they were outsiders as a Jedi pair. Aiden had proven time and time again that he was someone people could trust and believe in. He was the extravert that people sometimes needed in their lives to get things done.

 

[Phillip Slate]

Tags: Aiden Porte

This was Phillip's first time being at a Knighting. He wasn't sure how he should even be presenting himself for the task at hand. Aiden was his friend, so of course Phillip wanted to congratulate him but there would be so many other Jedi that wanted to congratulate Aiden. Ones who had known him, and Aiden's father a lot more than Phillip ever could imagine. To think that had been going on when Phillip had been panicking during the defence of the Gatehouse. It did give Phillip a short knock to his own confidence, but he tried to push the thought to the back of his mind. Dwelling over it wouldn't help anyone.

For now, Phillip just stood amongst the crowd, gently brushing down his paint stained robes. Of course, he could have put on a set of robes that weren't stained but...the paint was part of who he was. It was better to embrace that aspect of himself instead of trying to hide it. Which was almost ironic, considering how much Phillip was attempting to hide himself in the crowd.

The idea of being a Jedi Knight...it just seemed so far off to Phillip within his own mind. If Aiden and the other Knights were anything that Phillip had to be like, it would be a long time before he could reach that point. If he could ever reach that point. He had to remind himself however, it was a marathon. Not a sprint. The lad shouldn't be racing to get over the finish line anytime soon. He had to make the most out of his education, his training and his connections whilst he could.

Either way, he just focused on the front of the hall, silently watching with a quiver of a smile on his face.

 

[Dominique Vexx]

Outfit
Theed, Naboo​

Dominique strode through the crowd in her snug, white suit trimmed with gold. The high-heels with golden heels sharply clicked across the ground. Unlike some, the good Senator of Denon wasn't trying to blend in or hide. With a smile born of confidence, she sought to entice everyone to know of her passing. To pine after it. Seek it. If there was business to be conduct she wouldn't turn them down simply because it was a celebration.

That said, her golden eyes were fixed ahead as she sought to find Kalantha amidst all the excitement. Her gait was not fast as there was time, and this was a large gathering, but her strides were measured. Even the Palace Plaza had begun to grow thick in number with so many eager to learn what might change -- what they should look forward to, what they should dread.

Fortunately, the High Republic really had turned out to be a wise investment so far from Denon's perspective. Oh, some still championed for the Alliance on the Executive Board, but with the Republic not being on the warpath against corporations, and the Jedi not demanding access to every building on the planet, their arguments didn't carry far. All things that prompted Dominique to remain engaged with the Republic's government. Good relations would avoid needless arguments about how Jedi should interfere in local affairs. After all, she was trying to make changes, but Denon was hardly some backwater planet with one or two small "cities" to manage. No one got everything they wanted.

No doubt the three vying to rule Naboo itself would be there as well. Dominique was curious whether any of them would dare upstaging the new Chancellor at her own event. It would have been a breathtaking and audacious affairs that would entertain someone like Dominique, but an unfathomably risky move as well. After all, Naboo was just a player among many -- though some might think Kalantha's "former" position might bias her toward Naboo, all it'd take as a poorly orchestrated political stunt to sever that connection.

The glareshades worked overtime trying to find familiar faces in the crowds as Dominique passed. Two guards helped form a path through the bustling masses when they couldn't be bothered to see her coming. They had instructions not to be too assertive with the people though. It was a celebration, they were bound to get rowdy.

Ayumi Pallopides | Sibylla Abrantes​

 

[Arcann Pehnataur]

​

.

He had not been out and about in public in some time. Oh Arcann had worked remotely and had been busy on Atzerri, but not on Naboo. Thexann, his brother was on Coruscant during the invasion of the reborn Galactic Empire. While this is not necessarily the problem of the High Republic, this was his brother so he was concerned, and thus, he was watching over his sister n law, nieces and nephews. It was all under the guise of a reunion, but really, he was being close to family. Family was important.

Thexann made it back safely to Belazura and a few days were spent convalescing, catching up and telling of what was going on. Then it was back to work. Good timing too as it was “Foundation Day” a celebration…

Arcann Pehnataur would not describe Foundation Day as a mere celebration.

He would speak of it like a man peering through stained glass—seeing the beauty, yes, but also the fractures beneath. His words would be eloquent, restrained, but tinged with that unmistakable Naboo cynicism born not of disdain, but of discernment. He is a statesman raised in the eye of tradition, but one never blind to its cost.

"They call it Foundation Day—as though the thing we celebrate is rooted in the stone beneath our feet. But that is not entirely true. What we honor is not stone, nor title, nor ceremony... It is resilience. Woven silk and quiet defiance. The kind that Kalantha embodied—not simply to endure history, but to author it."

"In Theed, they flood the streets with music and laughter. Dancers leap across marble where senators once bled ideals dry in debate. Lights shimmer off the palace walls as if legacy can be polished like silver. And perhaps it can—for a moment. Long enough to forget how fragile it all is."

"Sibylla, Bastila, Aurelian... I see them. I see the weight behind their smiles. They know this isn't just about winning an election—it's about inheriting a burden gilded in gold. To rule Naboo is to speak softly while standing before storms. To convince the people they are safe, even as the galaxy teeters. Kalantha made it look effortless. It never was."

"Still, I walk among them. I smile when expected, nod when required. I raise my glass to the sky not because I believe in the pageantry, but because I believe in the people who do. Let them have their music, their fireworks, their illusion of permanence. Because somewhere, beneath it all, the foundation they speak of does exist. It lives in their hope. And so long as they have that..."

"Then even the long shadow of Kalantha can become a path forward."

“I will have my say on this… but right now… I am happy to meet and greet. The people need something to be happy about.”

TAGS: Open! :-D

 

[Michael Angellus]

​

Journal Entry:
.

Foundation Day’s in full swing. The whole planet’s wrapped in joy and memory. I’m stuck somewhere between the two.

Aiden Porte’s getting knighted. I’ve never met him, but I know him. Not by name—by weight.

He lost his father holding the Gatehouse. I lost mine to a firing line. He stood for something everyone could rally behind. I’m still figuring out if I stand for anything besides a name and a saber someone else built.

But I watched the broadcast. The light in his eyes. The stillness when they spoke his name. That moment—that feeling—I want that.

Not the ceremony. Not the sword. Just… to be seen like that. To be known for something more than grief. Then there was BRED.

I remember BRED sat there in silence, expression unreadable. Then, the familiar chirp:

“Brrt-dwee-whoop!” [I know that look.]

I didn’t acknowledge him. Didn’t realize I had a look.

BRED rolled to a stop next to me, projecting a tiny holo-silhouette of Aiden kneeling, blade on both shoulders. The image flickered for a second, then cut out with a decisive snap.

“Whomp-whomp-whreee.” [Classic Jedi moment. Cloaks, lights, father issues, heroic poses. The full package.]

Okay, that got snort, just one. Don’t forget the tragic backstory.

“Zweee-dut!” [Oh, that’s mandatory. If you don’t have one, they assign you one during your Knighting.]

That pulled a soft, tired laugh out of me. Then silence again. If only for a second. He lost his dad saving a thousand lives… I lost mine in chains. And I still don’t know what I’m supposed to do with that.

BRED's dome tilted slightly.

“Dee-woop-bah?” [Do what he did.]

You just said I wasn’t the full package.

“Bwoo-whoop.” [*Not yet.]

BRED bumped gently into my boot, almost like he was nudging a sleeping animal. I felt asleep.

“Zee-beep-brah-whoom.” [You don’t need a ceremony to be who you’re becoming. You just need to keep showing up.]

Wow, that made a lot of sense. You think I’ll get there?

“Boop.” [I think you already are. You just haven’t noticed.]

---

I didn’t say anything else, but reached over and picked up my helmet, then tucked it under one arm as I stood. One last look at the fireworks over the Palace. One last echo of applause in the wind.

Come on, BRED. Let’s go be something.

“WOOO!” [Finally! I was about to start beeping introspective poetry.]


One day.

—Michael



TAGS: Open

 

[Ayumi Pallopides]

Dominique Vexx Sibylla Abrantes

Well at least there was a familiar face... and figure. Ayumi looked as she could see the guards around Dominique. The outfit was also peak fashion she imagined as the woman walked and stopped a little ahead of the path to pose as most of the crowd cleared. Looking over at the white and gold clad woman with a smile on her face. "Well, glad to see there is at least one familiar face here." The smile stayed there as she looked around. "I sadly don't know anyone else here or what level of fancy they are looking for." Or who was who... names were easy she could learn a hundred names... but she had no faces to put to them so it didn't matter yet.

"Plus easier conversation started with an introduction." The smile stayed there as she posed a little for the moment but moved letting her hair flow behind her one shoulder. The guards should know who she was at least from Dominique visiting the district so she should be safe but she wasn't going to get super close. Just enough to look around as people were moving. She took in the white and gold look of the outfit and nodded. "That looks amazing Senator Vexx, hopefully I can get a chance to see some more of your fashions or lure away your designer to come and give the Upcity some more flavor to our outfits."

 

[Kas Larsen]

​

Equipment: Kas' Gear
Tags: Kyric | Phillip Slate | Dreidi Xeraic | Pari Sylune | Aiden Porte
Mentions: Brandyn Sal-Soren | Briana Sal-Soren | Lossa Aureus | Lorn Reingard | Vizion Trozky
Location: Naboo | Shiraya Sanctuary | Ceremony Chamber
Objective: Attend the Knighting Ceremony

The word got out and went around to several Jedi in their comms even word of mouth. Coming out of his J-1 Shuttle accompanied by Caden and Kharis it was Kas emerging out to attend his master's Knighting Ceremony. He hasn't gotten full background about Aiden's history including that his father Kahne Porte or anyone else close to Aiden had undergone quite the duties and services for the Galaxy.

Caden, Kas and Kharis were brought to the New Jedi Order situated on the planet called Tython and then ended up coming to Naboo after hearing about the Jedi Order from Jedi Knight Vizion Trozky when they went to Jakku. Kas went there to participate in Sentinel training and was mentored in Investigator aspects by Vizion. After that training Vizion mentioned Naboo and the Shiraya Sanctuary founded there.

The trio made their way inside of the Ceremony Hall where several other Jedi ranging from Padawan Learners, Knights and Masters were present and in attendance. Caden and Kharis stood beside Kas being at either side of him taking in the moments. They were attending their first Knighting Ceremony.

"Huh this will be a first. Wonder where Master Porte is." Caden wondered as he had been scanning through various Jedi that gathered to celebrate. Bowed his head over to a few while waiting for the ceremony to start.

"Don't know Cade. Probably taking his time and reflecting on his time as a Jedi." Kharis said to Caden while she was standing beside Kas. Gave him a light nudge as he was daydreaming, in thought.

"Huh sorry was in thought. Kay. This will be us guys. All the studying and training to get us prepped for assignments and missions." Kas said to his siblings.

The hall was getting busier while more and more Jedi were gathering. Kas was expecting the Jedi Council members to begin the ceremony and carryout a speech. He was expecting Jedi Knights like Brandyn Sal-Soren , Briana Sal-Soren , Lorn Reingard , Lossa Aureus and Vizion Trozky to be in attendance. Caden and Kharis chatting away with fellow students that were nearby.

Kas glanced around to spot fellow Jedi members Phillip Slate who he saw back on Eadu for the Field Trial. Noticed Jedi Knight Dreidi Xeraic not ever meeting or seeing her before maybe he will get to know them here. Another Padawan Learner Pari Sylune was noticed, not met her yet either and there'll no doubt more Jedi he hasn't met at all. He stood waiting and ready to interact with anyone and everyone throughout.

 

[Lorn Reingard]

​

Lorn stood still among the robed forms of the Council, his silhouette angled just slightly apart, as though an invisible force always kept him on the periphery of their belonging. His gaze swept over the gathering crowd with calm familiarity, marking faces not as a Commander, nor as a Councilor, but as a man who'd buried too many and remembered every name. He offered a slight nod here, a quiet, near-smile there, acknowledging warriors, friends, and students alike. He looked like a man comfortable in silence, but the restless thumbing of his datapad suggested otherwise.

The message still sat unsent. He sighed through his nose, glancing at the wide chamber doors where late arrivals shuffled in, before finally looking back down at the device. Maybe he was nervous, or perhaps, Lorn thought grimly, he was simply bad at expressing his feelings. Regardless, the lad deserved to hear it. With a decisive tap, Lorn sent the message.

<Aiden, You're probably too distracted to read this today, and that's fair. I just wanted to say, before they pin more titles to your name, you've already made me proud. Not because you stood at the Gatehouse. Not because of what you held, or what it cost. But because you stayed kind. You held your ground without losing yourself, and that's rarer than most admit. You've carried your father's legacy without letting it chain you, and I know he'd see you as I do now, not as his shadow, but as his answer. You're the difference the galaxy keeps hoping will come along. Stand tall today. You've earned it, even if you don't believe that yet. –Lorn>

He watched the 'message sent' confirmation appear, then locked the datapad with a quiet sigh.

@Open​

 

[Aurelian Veruna]

Aurelian stood motionless, a shadow clinging to the marble archway of the private suite. Outside, beyond the balcony rail, the city of Theed burned gold in the twilight, its people a restless tide of loyalty and doubt. The sounds of music, laughter, and the hollow roar of adoration registered only as static in his ears.

For days, he'd rehearsed this moment; for nights, sleep had been impossible. Each step since his declaration to stand for Sovereign felt like trying to walk upright through a hurricane. He could still hear his father's voice, dripping venom through barred teeth in the dungeon cell where Aurelian had locked him. "A wasted name... a child dressed as a king... every Veruna before you would hang their head in shame."

That last accusation had lodged itself in his skull like a blade. Aurelian inhaled slowly, fists curling tight behind his back. His father was wrong. He had to be. Legacy, Aurelian believed, wasn't inherited; it was forged. But the certainty that had once come so easily now felt fragile, like cracked glass underfoot. He told himself again that this wasn't weakness, but resolve tempered by reality. This heavy feeling? That was just the crown, even before it touched his head.

He adjusted the black lapels of his suit, each movement precise, surgical. He'd chosen the color intentionally, its sheen reflecting like oil under the suite's dim lighting. "A prince of shadows," some whispered. Let them.

Then he felt her presence. Sibylla. He turned, outwardly calm, though his blood hummed traitorously in his veins.

When her eyes found his, he offered a nod... respectful, careful, and unreadable. Aurelian's mouth tugged into that signature dangerous smile, one that promised either charm or ruin, depending on the shifting winds. With disarming ease, he then crossed the room to meet her.

Wordlessly, without hesitation or question, he took her hand. He bowed slightly, his lips brushing her knuckles like a secret shared between conspirators. "You look lovely, Lady Abrantes." he murmured, his voice lower than usual, as if speaking any louder might shatter whatever fragile thing hung between them. "Again."

A pause stretched, just long enough to let the air tighten between them. "Are you ready for today, Sibylla?" he asked softly, deliberately ignoring the phantom weight of the last time they had seen each other, a night when swords weren't drawn but might as well have been, when he'd named himself her rival.

His gaze met hers, calm and direct. Whatever happened next, he'd decided, neither of them would leave this day unchanged.

Sibylla Abrantes | Bastila Sal-Soren​

 

[Eerie Omera]

Location: Knighting ceremony.
Outfit

Eerie had never been to a Knighting ceremony before. Well, at least not a Jedi one. She had been to quite a few military ceremonies and celebrations in her life. Even several promotions of rank. Never a knighting though. Honestly, she was quite eager too see what the differences would be.

The young Arsenian moved through the crowd quietly and almost unnoticed. A plus to her size and age. Eventually her heterochromatic eyes landed on Aiden Porte , then shifted to another girl, Pari Sylune , who she didn't recognize. With barely a sound, she appeared at Aiden's side, standing almost in a formal military posture.

 

[Brandyn Sal-Soren]

The cuff around Brandyn's formal Council member's attire was just a little too snug. He was breathing fine. It just wouldn't pay to have him walk up anymore stairs.

A small sigh escaped his lips, the light sting of fabric constricting against his wrist reminding him that perhaps he hadn’t quite yet mastered the art of diplomacy. Or perhaps he just needed to go back to Glitterstim for his formals.

The assembly hall, as grand and impersonal as it was, seemed to only amplify the thoughts swirling in his mind. Jedi Knights were supposed to stand as pillars of order, but here he stood, the so-called Master of Shadows, whatever that meant. The ceremony ahead wasn’t his to claim, but the weight of it felt familiar, like a personal reminder.

His eyes flicked over the crowd, looking for Aiden. He was proud of how much his friend had grown. And he had taken loss with far greater dignity and grace than Brandyn had.

It’s not about the title, it’s about the man you are, he reminded himself, clenching his fists slightly. Aiden deserved this. No question. Brandyn had seen him at his lowest, and there was no mistaking the quiet strength in his soul.

Brandyn adjusted the cuff again, though the discomfort lingered. He wasn’t sure if it was the fabric or the weight of expectation pressing down on him, but it didn’t matter. He was here for Aiden, and today wasn’t about him.

The crowd began to fall silent, signaling that the ceremony might soon begin. Brandyn’s smile broadened. His friend who had overcome more than most could ever imagine. His father would be proud of him.

| Congrats, Aiden Porte aka Bestie|

​

 

[Blaire Sal-Soren]

Slowly and softly Blaire reached out and took Brandyn's hand in hers.

"Stop fussing," she told him in a whisper.

Bran was wearing robes reserved for members of The Jedi council and since the moment she'd caught up with him he had done nothing but fidget and pick and pull at his clothes. She wished he had allowed her some say in his outfit, she still owned some rather fine items of daddy's that would've fit Bran perfectly with minimal tailoring.

Brandyn was Blaire's older brother and a Jedi. Not just any Jedi mind you but a council member. Brandyn, Blaire, and their sister Briana were triplets. Bran and Bri were Jedi, Blaire was not. Where since they were old enough to walk Brandyn wanted to be a Jedi but Blaire doubted that even he thought he would end up where he was.

No doubt he wore the title of Master and council member as uneasily as he wore the clothes that marked him as such.

"You look just fine. Aiden will be ecstatic to see that you made it."

Aiden was Brandyn's best friend, after Blaire of course, and today he was growing in his journey as a Jedi. It was this, Aiden's knighting and nothing else that would've seen Blaire give any amount of time inside the Jedi temple on Naboo. It was about the last place in this world or any other that she wished to be but it would take Shiraya herself to keep Blaire from being here for Aiden.

Aiden might have been Bran's best friend but he was Blaire's…Aiden. Yes, Blaire's Aiden.

"You're sure it's okay I'm here?" She asked her brother for not the first time…

| Outfit: xxx | Tag: Brandyn Sal-Soren | Equipment: xxx |​

 

[Aristodemus]

Aristodemus du Couteau, The Young Heir
Location: Naboo, Theed City
Objective: Enjoy the festival and the Parade
Attire

​

​

The atmosphere was whimsical with a particular flare of unbridled positivity, from the upcoming parade to the dazzling market booths. If the energy that buzzed in the air grew even greater Aristodemus believed he could fly like a rock skipping across water. He moved as quickly as he could manage, avoiding the larger crowds and busier booths, there was so much to see and time was not on his side. ​

​

Aristodemus pushed himself towards a booth that held something with quite a gleam and shine that entranced the young boy. The older vendor smiled and gestured for him to get a closer look at the coins on display. Aristodemus saw a few people play with these decorative coins and he wanted to get one but couldn’t find the silver and bronze one. It was quite divine that he needn't to hunt down every single booth to find these Coins specifically. He could have missed the parade if he spent all this time looking.​

​

And now here we are! ​

​

“How much?”​

​

“For the whole set?” ​

​

Aristodemus nodded fervently. ​

​

“Well, these usually go for thirty-five a piece, but for you I’ll let them go for Ninety-five. Deal?” ​

​

He quickly produced his Credit chip and produced the amount the Vendor asked for, no hesitation. The Vendor gave a rather amused look but with a simple ‘Hmpgh’ of approval he gestured for Aristodemus to grab the three coins. With a wide smile the young boy collected the coins and quickly walked off to better inspect them without bothering the booth any further. ​

​

Each coin held a bit of weight, they were indeed made of metal but if they were truly silver or bronze Aristodemus couldn’t really be certain. But they were comfortable to handle with his hands and he quickly began to test out a little magic trick with them. The parade was still a far bit away from his spot so Aristodemus figured there was plenty of time to practice his magic and find a stand that sold something rather sweet.​

​

"I should've gotten to Naboo sooner. . ."​

​

|| @Open ||​

 

[Lossa Aureus]

Robes
Bracelet | Echo Stone
Lightsaber | Turmoil​

The Order's Battlemaster was in attendance. A short distance away in a Zeltron woman's arms, flanked by a Zeltron man was Zeriana. As much as she had wanted to keep them both at arm's length from her life, she couldn't deny them anymore the chance to see their only grandchild after all the news that they had found in their silent watch from afar.

Zeriana herself still unsure of her grandfather, but more forgiving of the older woman that resembled her own mother.

A familiar face appearing among those gathered to honor Aiden as Lossa glanced towards Brandyn and Blaire.

"Has your brother always been the fidgety one?" Lossa's voice low to the both of them while maintaining her poise despite betraying the stoic nature of the ceremony.

Lorn Reingard | Brandyn Sal-Soren | Blaire Sal-Soren | Briana Sal-Soren | Aiden Porte​

 

[Sibylla Abrantes]

​

The suite was quiet, still in the way a room could only be before something irrevocable occurred.

Sibylla took soft, measured steps soundlessly across the polished floor as she moved deeper into the room and crossed into Aurelian's territory. Then, with a slow breath, she lifted her hands and drew back the heavy cowl that had cloaked her features. The sheer veil shimmered faintly in the low light as it fell behind her shoulders, revealing intricate woven loose curls of her dark mahogany hair that framed the careful storm brewing in her hazel eyes.

And then there he was.

Aurelian Veruna , poised beneath the marble archway, carved like a statue into the suite's architecture, his profile silhouetted against Theed's golden skyline. For a moment, he didn't move. Then he adjusted the lapels of his black suit with the same methodical calm he always wore like armor.

But she could see it.

Not in his posture, which remained impeccable, nor in his face, which offered only that familiar calculating ease.

No, she saw it in the way he didn't glance over his shoulder until he'd finished his adjustment, in the way he turned and smiled.

It wasn't surprise.

It was inevitability, and that, perhaps more than anything else, made her wary.

Still, Sibylla let him come to her, let him take her hand, bow with the weight of unspoken truths still heavy between them, and press lips to knuckles that had once gripped treaty drafts beside his in the midnight hush in the Assembly's office. The words that followed carried too much memory for comfort regarding the night at the Solarim, and Sibylla's fingers curled lightly in his and then withdrew.

"Are you ready for today, Sibylla?"

At that, a delicate brown brow arched as her lips tilted in a quirk that didn't quite reach her eyes. A silent wordless mock. That stretch of silence grew between them, allowing the sounds of revelry outside to echo like a distant hum.

"That depends," she said with a dry coolness, "what sort of entertainment am I to expect this time?"

And while the question was tinged with her particular style of cordial political wit, Sibylla continued to study him. Not his suit. Not his posture. Not the signature dangerous smile that graced assembly halls and gala events.

Him.

She searched beneath the performance, behind the controlled elegance, behind the Princely silhuette Remus Veruna had tried to sculpt into legacy. But that was not the version of him she sought now.

Instead, she remembered Aurelian's focus during their work. How he'd cut through layers of flattery and statecraft when the matter became too dire for games.

That was the version of him she sought now.

"I'll be plain," she continued in her elegant but firm tone for a teenager her age. A girl educated, molded, and taught to be just as much of a legacy for her House as he. "Time isn't a luxury we have."

She took a breath and leveled her hazel eyes at him.

"Did you hire Kyric to prevent the assassination attempt?"

The words landed between them like the elegant and delibrate lunge of a tipped fencing foil, handled with just enough edge to make the air shift.

And just like back at the SOlarium, Sibylla's gaze didn't waver.

"If so… why?"

She already knew Aurelian never moved without reason. She just didn't know if that reason was to protect her…or to control the outcome.