Junction Red Red Wine | [FO] Empty Hex W of Dosuun + [CIS] Ichtor 8

[Axile Volzap]

Immigrant? Axile nearly smirked. "No. I've lived on Naboo all my life."

He took note of the woman's view of the First Order's relations with the Confederacy. It was an avenue for attack should he and this woman ever grow into a friendship (for lack of better word). But for such things to grow then seeds needed to be planted. Pleasantries exchanged. That moment at the beginning of such relationships where the two got to know one another, and decided whether or not pursuit of such a thing was worth while. Particularly when the two parties involved had ulterior motives.

It sounded paranoid but Axile summarized that the two worked for factions that were galactic on scale. He wasn't aware of her station in the First Order, and she was unaware of his in the Confederacy. They would likely find out during the course of their conversation and the ceremony that was taking place. But whoever she was she had a stake in the First Order, and so naturally it was in her best interests to serve it in someway because in return it would service her. Some liked to lie to themselves or others- at the very least some dishonesty, whether for good or bad reasons- about patriotism, or service, or some readied made excuse for why they worked for people like the Confederacy, or in her case the First Order.

But if people were really honest then they would come down to the simple terms of the arrangement. Scratch my back, and I will scratch yours.

Or so they say.

"I couldn't really give an opinion on behalf of the Confederacy regarding the N.J.O, or their alleged war crimes, or whatever is happening along the Tingel Arm," Axile replied. "It isn't my place to give it and I would likely lose my job if I were to go on the record for the Confederacy. Particularly when it comes to our allies. I am told that the Confederacy and this faction of Jedi have been working closely together for years so I can only assume that right now the Confederacy is neutral on the matter."

"With that being said they are Jedi, aren't they? I don't think war crimes is something they would be involved in. But I can certainly look into the matter. In a few days myself and some associates will be getting together to investigate criminal enterprises. Perhaps this is the way to get to the bottom of the matter?"

"Of course I would need to get to know you a little better before introducing you to them. My name is Axile Volzap. What is yours?"

Aithche Wierz

 

[Aithche Wierz]

Aithche was starting to wonder if her new companion was all there. He'd ignored her proffered hand and earlier introduction and was now asking her to introduce herself a second time. Having a long dysfunctional relationship with alcohol herself, she wondered if he'd been too appreciative of the open bar. He wouldn't be the first drunkard in the public service. "As I said a couple of minutes ago....Aithche....Wierz. Assistant. Attaché" she spaced out the words slowly just in case he was hard of hearing.

She gave a wave of dismissal at his comment as if it was of no consequence, "Well your opinion then if you're afraid of going on record" she said but she noted the omission. If you can't say something nice then don't say anything at all. "Would be involved in or should be involved in? There's some disturbing reports coming out about the fighting there". She couldn't resist a little bit of malicious glee at the comment.

"Oh that is mightily kind of you, bless your heart. If as you say the Confederacy is neutral on the matter then perhaps your investigation might be just what the whole sordid affair needs. I know 'Confederacy First' is the policy but I've always understood the CIS to be one of the more...open-minded factions as it were?"

Axile Volzap

 

[Palm-Imer]

Wearing: XxX.
Weapons: The Wraith Blades.
Tagging: Gerwald Lechner ~ Cord Starfall ~ Varick Lechner ~ Lunara Azure ~ Matma Bernu ~ Firenne Van-Derveld ~ Luca Ioneşti ~ Kurenai Yumi ~ Eenia Vahn ~ Raz Asai'il ~ Open.

​

So far in her travels the geminaie had met the Jedi and the Knights Obsidian. The latter had managed to sway her from the path she had previously followed, one that did no longer suit her vision of the galaxy or the Force. More precisely, it had been the Lord Commander himself the one to help her come to terms with a truth she had not wanted to see, but now with open eyes and a clear head - it was time to move forward. Today, she would meet a third Order. Headed by none other than Gerwald's brother.

One knowing look was directed at the lupine. Much to both of their content, there would be no uncomfortable clothes nor tense social interactions tainted by excessive formalities today. A diplomat, bred and raised for the fine arts of idle chat and veiled purposes, it was a field in which Palm excelled - that did not mean she had to enjoy it. Indeed, today's plans were a lot more enticing. Back in Naboo, a place that held memories she would be wise to keep in the back of her mind, surrounded by nature and those of her Order.

Palm had not yet gotten the chance to personally meet many of them, today perhaps would remedy that. Gerwald's voice lured her attention away from her surroundings and onto him. A small, warm smile curved her lips as she heard his voice within her thoughts, lacking the Force she could not feel his presence but this was enough of a reassurance. "Having mostly forgone the Force for most of my life does have its little perks, I suppose." There was a hint of jest to her tone, well intentioned humor at her own expense. Of course, considering her present situation, it had brought her a lot more pains than it did blessings. The fact still remained, however, that she had been a duelist even before she had been taught to tap into her connection to the Force. That could not be taken away from her.

His next words were first responded by a nod. Gerwald had shared about his family before. She knew how their parting had pained him, and their reunion would hopefully bring joy. There was also a certain melancholy as she thought of her own sibling, a void in her chest that would never be filled and that bid the shadows that currently hunted her to grow restless. She allowed the memory to slip away before it could root itself into her conscious thoughts. "Varick. I'm looking forward to meeting him." Her golden gaze met Gerwald's icy one. There would be no mention of Alwine.

Then someone approached them, and Palm could only tell who it was because it was her duty to know who the Lord Marshalls of the Knights Obsidian were. Gerwald had been one when they met. Although it did not reach her face, she was sure the lupine would feel the spark of amusement in her mind as she was about to use the title she had addressed him by upon their first meeting, a formality that was not long lived between them at all. Her head was lowered slightly in an acknowledging and respectful nod. "Lord Marshal Starfall, pleased to meet you. I'm Palm-Imer."

 

[Dyrn Grav]

OBJECTIVE 1; BOOGIE WONDERLAND​

The Guard Captain stood outside the Supreme Leader's chambers, his face passive, as he waited. He didn't wear his armor or helmet, not tonight, as he adjusted the sleeve of his tuxedo jacket and tugged it down for the fifth time since he had put it on. It had always felt odd to be out of the Royal Guard armor, but sometimes necessity required it, and Dyrn was reluctantly made to do just that. Still, that didn't stop him from wearing the form-fitted Molytex-Armorweave combat suit, so he at least had some level of familiarity with his attire for the evening. The festivities for the night were straightforward, and involved a high society type event, with a crowd environment; so the security dictated for Lady Fortan would be close proximity protection, with the Guardsman armed with minimal weaponry for the purpose.

Dyrn reached a hand down to his side, where he felt the telescopic staff against his side, within the jacket. He also had a vibrodagger inside his left sleeve, against his forearm in a small sheath. It was as appropriate as he could manage for the task, and the bare minimum he would allow to have his equipment stripped down to. If there were issues, then the Guard Captain would walk Lady Fortan out, it was as simple as that.

I don't expect it to be a problem. There will likely be a number of protective details with concealed arms.

But, Dyrn's thoughts were interrupted by the arrival of Lady Fortan. He turned at the sound of the door as she walked into the sitting room where he stood, Banks in tow as was usual. The Guardsman straightened as he glanced over the stunning gown she wore, and although Dyrn could appreciate the strapless shoulders, he also considered the vulnerability. Still. She looked remarkable. Dyrn returned the Supreme Leader's smile, as she commented on how nice he looked, to which he glanced down and then back to her with a broader smile. "My appearance is of little comparison to your own, your Majesty... you look radiant." Which was true, and the Guardsman was well aware of that fact right then. Dyrn fell into step with Lady Fortan, on her right, and the pair went to the transport. "And yes, ma'am, best avoid being late."

It took no time at all to arrive at the function, to the Ambassador's residence, where the Supreme Leader was immediately engaged by the Chief of Mission. The sentient was all teeth, all platitudes, and offered champagne to the pair. Dyrn, while not drinking for the evening while on protective duty, took the glass so as to maintain appearances. He would simply find a means to empty it without consumption over the course of evening. There would be nothing eaten or sipped that would dull his reaction or awareness, despite how secure the residence seemed to be, so Dyrn settled into a carefully maintained state of security cognizance of the environment around him and his charge.

The Chief of Mission saw more arrivals, and excused himself, his over-large smile once more in place.

I do not like that individual. There is something about him that--

The Guardsman's attention shifted, as Lady Fortan spoke beside him, and stepped closer. He listened attentively, despite his brightly colored eyes that scanned the numerous guests and high points throughout the lobby. Stairs, lots of stairs. Alcoves, also. But those were no issue, as Dyrn's eyes began to shift through a number of visual ranges, the colorization of his irises shifting like mingling water of differing color. Lady Fortan asked if he had plans later in the evening, though it had been something the Guardsman hadn't really thought about in all honesty.

"No plans, ma'am, no."

Dyrn smirked at Lady Fortan, as he glanced to her with a chuckle.

"Ah, very considerate of you," He said in a low tone, before he added. "I'll think on it. Once I've tucked your Majesty into her blankets nice and snugly. Thank you, ma'am."

Honestly, the Guard Captain couldn't help himself. His smirk remained for a while longer, as he estimated if Lady Fortan would blush or not. Considering the surrounding and the guests present, he presumed she would maintain self-control and turn the topic to something more serious. Still, the turn of phrase had been... amusing, and the chance to engage in a moment of flippancy with his charge had been enjoyable.

"That is, presuming your Excellency doesn't find the evening to your liking, and want to indulge in more social interaction after the official event? I would be content to remain by your side, should you wish it." Dyrn looked ahead toward one of the main congregating areas, where a large number of guests mingled. "Shall we move into the residence proper, ma'am?"

______________________________

Natasi Fortan​

 

[Axile Volzap]

Axile lifted his half cup of Gizer Ale as Aithche comically repeated herself as if she was speaking to a Thernbee. "Usually alright with a drink but it's been awhile so, perhaps, I am a little buzzed." He set the drink down with intentions to return too it later. "So, Aithche. Am I saying that right? In any case I confess that I don't know too much on the matter. Like I said I am new to the job and only joined the Confederacy a few days ago so, if I were to be completely honest with you I don't know anything about what you're asking me."

He had completely missed her name. That could have been put down to all the noise that was going on around them. But now he had just admitted to knowing little to nothing about what she was asking him about. If he were in her shoes he would come across as an idiot. But an honest one, at that. Perhaps that would go a long way to relations between himself and this Assistant Attaché as she reminded him.

"But here is what I do know, and it might answer your question about the Confederacy. You see I put myself into public service for the Confederacy because I believed in their philosophy. Without the Confederacy then Naboo might have ended up in the hands of the Sith Empire, or one of those renegade factions you hear rumours about on the Outer Rim. They even made my homeworld it's Capital. I believe in freedom, and I think that the Confederacy has gone out of it's way to help others achieve that as well."

"During my brief time here I've encountered faces from all corners of the Galaxy. I even got to go to another world for the first time just a couple of days ago. These are things that are worthy of my time, and my expertise... though I am sure I haven't done myself justice since we begun talking." He cracked a smile. "If these Jedi are responsible for war crimes then I would understand why they put 'new' beside their tag because, as I understand it, Jedi are peacekeepers and although I am yet to meet one I would guess that either these allegations are false, or misconstrued. I would be shocked if they were true, and at the very least someone should bring out the truth about whether or not they are responsible."

"Tell me, though... What does an assistant attaché do in the First Order?"

Aithche Wierz

 

[Ariel Yvarro]

​

The Outer Rim Free Trade Agreement was something that Ariel had longed awaited for as it meant that barriers to trade and investment between the First Order and the Confederacy of Independent Systems would be eliminated. It would bring about the elimination of tariffs on exports from both nations. It also meant that the movement of people between the nations would be easier as well, and all of it meant that economies on either side would improve. All in all - it was a good deal and it signified the growing relations between the two nations. The Grand Moff was glad for Exarch Srina Talon 's intervention in the first summit. Otherwise, the deal might have never happened - cooler heads prevailed and here they were celebrating the opening of the embassy on Naboo.​

​

Still, the Grand Moff played the delicate game of politics. All to ensure the safety and security of the nation, her cousin's nation. Ariel looked out the window of her vehicle and smiled warmly. Naboo wasn't too different from Dosuun she gathered, this was her first official visit to the planet as a dignitary of any sort. The last she arrived here was with her sister Ryssa and Ryssa's beau Djonas Vile something about a resort. The Grand Moff waited as the vehicle came around to the embassy and a small contingent of guards moved to open the doors.​

​

Ariel was dressed in a simple yet elegant black dress as she was helped out of the vehicle and escorted toward the doors of the embassy. The young woman had arrived only moments after her illustrious cousin. Guards moved to keep a perimeter around the Grand Moff as she sifted through the crowd to shake hands with various members of both the First Order's delegation and the Confederacy's. When she did see her cousin the young woman moved to greet her formally but saw someone she didn't recognize, however; after a time she recalled exactly who the man was. So much for being open. Ariel held a tight smile toward the older of the two. ​

​

"I don't believe we've had the pleasure of meeting, Grand Moff Ariel Yvarro. I'm glad to see that Her Majesty is well taken care of," she remarked politely from the safety of the guards' perimeter. Fortunately, she was directed by a member of her staff toward the cameras where she smiled. "I am delighted to be here, this is a momentous occasion for both nations, and I am so pleased to be ushering in this new era of cooperation with the Confederacy."​

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Ariel answered a few more questions and then was moved on by her staff toward the room where the trade agreement would be signed. There were quite many people present and for the signing, most she was sure were eager to lobby themselves to both nations. ​

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Natasi Fortan | Dyrn Grav | Delilah Graham | Sor-Jan Xantha | Aithche Wierz | Axile Volzap | Alessandra Creed ​

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[Sor-Jan Xantha]

"Hohoho"

Even before he'd turned, the intonation painted a picture in the boy's mind of what he was about it see. When the tow-headed Anzat had craned his head back, the man in front of him met his expectations. A towering figure, with a large personality, to match.

He seemed a jovial fellow. Sor-Jan rather liked him immediately, as a matter of fact.

Dangerous, how those large personalities could be so magnetic. But, no less disarming all the same.

"Why hello there my little friend! My name is Draconis Sederius Wolf, Viceroy of the Surric System of our glorious Confederacy! What's your name? I am quite pleased to make your acquaintance and wish to welcome you to the absolutely beautiful and wonderous planet of Theed and our embassy!"

Giving a formal bow, the youth genuflected toward the gentleman. "Viceroy, the pleasure is mine," the former Jedi offered politely. As much as he claimed Corellia as home, his education on Coruscant likely reflected in the manner in which he spoke.

"My name is Xantha," the youth offered, as he straightened back up. "Sor-Jan Xantha, of the Corellia Digital Corporation," the boy added, as a hand dipped briefly into the suit coat that he wore, producing a holo-card which he offered the man. Standard business fare. In more than nine hundred years, the practice of exchanging business cards hadn't changed.

"Are you from Teyr, then, Viceroy?" the boy inquired, as his mind worked to try and recall details of the Surric System. "I knew a Whiphid, many years ago, who once told me of... the Teyr Rift? I believe it was called," the youth recalled, before adding, "If the stories of it are true, I imagine it rivals the beauty and wonder of Naboo."

If his memory of the Colonies was correct, Surric lay across several major hyperlanes. Including the Corellian Trade Spine.

That was interesting. Viceroy Wolf might stand to benefit quite well from the Outer Rim Trade Agreement.

"I've traveled the Shipwrights Trace many times, but I'm sad to say that I've never had occasion to visit."

Draconis Sederius Wolf​

 

[Kurenai Yumi]

Tags: Gerwald Lechner Cord Starfall Palm-Imer

How times had changed. But a few years ago she could never see herself meeting with someone from the first order without wanting to rip their heads off. Their take over of her home world, very unpleasant first meeting with a few of their knights and war across the Outtrim resulting in her adopting a policy of shoot on sight should she ever meet them.

Still nations changed, the CIS itself was living proof of that being quite different to the original interpretation and the many that followed, being out of all things a bastion of freedom within the southern galaxy. Today she would see for herself during this join training if the First Order had truly changed for the better, and if not, well she had an excuse to beat a few of their people up if the training was to go as expected.

So here she was, meeting up with Gerwald to this training session with their newly found trade partners. As she approached the meting point herself noting the arrival of her fellow marshal Star fall as well as the lupin himself. Said lupin being accompanied by another women whom she believed to he his squire. "I do hope I am not to late, has anyone for the other side arrived yet"?

 

[Matma Bernu]

Sentinel Matma Bernu strolled through the streets of Theed, taking in the sights as he made his way to the rendezvous with the Knights Obsidian of the Confederacy, absentmindedly chewing a delicious fruit a vendor had been kind enough to give him. The Knight couldn't help but be struck by the aesthetics of the architecture- modern meeting traditional. 'Seems like who ever designed Theed and Avalonia had similiar tastes', he thought dryly.

The Chiss was happy to be on this assignment- with the declaration of Pax Imperialis, the Imperial Knights had been pressed into service- be it combat, disaster relief, or even working with the Refugee Council with work assisting millions fleeing the Third Imperial Civil War, or the Brynadul invasion, or the Brotherhood of the Maw, or the Balance knows what. It would be even better to pit himself against other Force users for the first time.

He felt an unfamiliar weight bump against his waste. Glancing down sharply, Matma's gaze softened as he realized what it was- his new lightsaber. After his old blade was damaged in a spar with one of the other Knights, he went down into the armory at Fort Excelsior to repair it and stumbled upon this design. Some felt the cross-guard was 'Ren-esq'- and nobody wanted to be even remotely connected to the current iteration of the Ren- Matma contended that it hearkens back to the day of the High Republic, with the intention of the saber looking...distinguished. Knightly, even.

Before he knew it, his legs had carried him to the forest, where he could make out a few figures that glowed in the Force, and a man that could only be related to Varrick Lechner- the resemblance was simply too uncanny. Matma nodded at the assembled group, muttering his greetings, and bowed to Gerwald.

"Lord Commander, I am Matma Bernu, an Imperial Knight. It is an honor to make your acquaintance- your brother speaks quite highly of you. I look forward to this exercise."

Varick Lechner | Lunara Azure | Palm-Imer | Kurenai Yumi | Raz Asai'il | Eenia Vahn | Cord Starfall | Axile Volzap | Luca Ioneşti | Matma Bernu | Firenne Van-Derveld | Resurgent Narrative | Gerwald Lechner

 

[Natasi Fortan]

Natasi's smirk at Grav's (unintentional, she thought) double-entendre was all the reaction she had time before she spied her cousin, the Grand Moff, entering the assembly. She turned and watched. She looked beautiful, as she always did, but something about her appearance tonight was inspired. Natasi always knew that deep down -- sometimes very, very deep -- there was a nugget of Fortan in her. She looked the part tonight, though the drive-by acid attack -- that was all Fiolette. Ariel was a whirlwind tonight; before Natasi could blink, she was gone, leaving Natasi to return the remark with a smile as the Yvarro woman was whisked away by her staff.

"You'll have to excuse my cousin," Natasi murmured to Grav, mortified at her cousin's lack of tact as the younger woman retreated to speak to the cameras. Natasi hoped that she had better control of her tongue in front of them than in front of her. "She sometimes forgets that wit is not the same as charm." She set her champagne glass down, untouched, on the tray of a passing waiter and wandered forward into the room. Idly she wondered whether Darth Metus would be there; it had been ever such a long time since they'd met. Natasi still recalled fondly the time they had been comrades. It felt like a lifetime ago now, probably because it was. But she knew that he had other important matters demanding his attention, so she was content to wonder rather than hope.

"How would you feel about taking a turn in the garden?" she asked Grav. "I think I'd like some fresh air. Did your security review suggest there were enemy snipers out there? I'm not saying that's a dealbreaker." Natasi shifted directions subtly, noting that Delilah Graham was having what appeared to be an awkward conversation with another woman and wanting to create a wide arc around her so as to avoid the appearance of eavesdropping. A few moments later, they emerged into the garden, dimly lit under the darkening skies of Naboo. "Have you been here before? Naboo, I mean," she clarified as she pulled her wrap closer around her.

Dyrn Grav

 

[Draconis Sederius Wolf]

Location: Theed Embassy, Diplomatic Event
Dress Attire: Fully Military Dress Uniform
Objective: Represent the people of Surric and exalt the glorious Confederacy and their friends!
Tags: Sor-Jan Xantha , Delilah Graham , Ariel Yvarro , Axile Volzap , Dyrn Grav , Aithche Wierz , Isobel Nakano , Natasi Fortan
​

Draconis would light up with joy as the smaller being addressed him and started bowing all polite like. Such good manners in someone so young and full of life! It made him burst in joy. He would laugh heartily as he let his hands rest on his hips.

"My good friend please, call me Draconis!" He smiled as the boy straightened back up and loudly proclaimed "I shall call you Xan, unless you take offense in which case we'll just have to figure something out! Now then my friend, let's get you a better view!" He would promptly reach down and hoist the smaller child looking person onto his shoulders with the gentleness and ease of someone picking up a puppy. His face a beaming smile as he would accept the card and begin his chatter with the fellow as he started walking around with Xantha on his shoulders!

"Incredible! Someone as talented as yourself is working at a digital corporation! Are they paying you well? Their benefits package treating you nicely? It's so good to see someone so industrious at such a young age! The galaxy needs all of the able hands and minds that it can to ensure the safety and prosperity of all. But behold, the splendor of the Theed Embassy! I shall give you a guided tour of the place my friend, and while I am no expert on Theed architecture or history I am an appreciative mind of beauty and art!"

And with his new friend in tow he would first go to the bar and simply tap the counter, the barkeep recognizing the man and immediately pouring a stein with a strong brown liquor. For those familiar, they'd recognize the brew as Surric Whiskey, the legal export of a far stronger drink that was served only in the Surric System but is however kept in the system. He had to represent Surric's various contributions to the greater CIS as it were. With the drink served he would toast the barkeep and take a massive swig of the strong brew, before deciding to take his friend on an adventure.

"Ah you speak of my homeland! Yes the Rift! The Great Scar as some call it! Truly massive and wondrous place but I would wager that it is equally rivaled by the many vast plains, jungles, beautiful cities that are now coming back up. I beseech you my friend you must come and see the various wonders of not only Teyr but the entire Surric System! It is a place full of riches, beautiful people, places, and bounties not only for the body to experience but for the soul! I dare say it is one of the most beautiful places in our absolutely glorious Confederacy! And we have almost finished reconstruction meaning that most of these places you can now visit without having to wear an envirosuit! So many foods, drinks, music, AND THE DANCING OH THE DANCING!" He would start awkwardly sway a little with a drink in hand trying not to cause his passenger to lose balance "My friend you have not lived until you've been to Surric during one of our festivals! But enough of my home, where do you hail from young man? What is it you call home? Where is it you think of when you are on long voyages and miss the comfort of your own bed? Is it a beautiful cityscape? Wondrous countryside? Majestic mountains? Please my good man I implore you to tell me of your homeland!"

 

[Dyrn Grav]

OBJECTIVE 1; BOOGIE WONDERLAND​

The residence lobby had started to fill up quickly. More and more delegates had started to arrive, including a more familiar individual known to the Guard Captain. At the entry of Grand Moff Yvarro, the Guardsman nodded in her direction as she passed, though he while he was preoccupied with maintaining a secure area around Lady Fortan he caught mention of someone discussing her Majesty. Dyrn turned his head, as he listened, but could tell it was mostly harmless conversation. He returned to his protective task, as he remained beside Lady Fortan and watched the Grand Moff move on.

Dyrn glanced down to the Supreme Leader, as she apologized in a low tone, to which the Guardsman smiled wryly and shook his head. "No need, your Majesty," He said simply, as he watched Lady Fortan put the champagne flute back on a tray, untouched. The Guardsman did the same, before he listened to the request from his charge. "A walk through the gardens should be fine, ma'am. I was given security layout by the Ambassador detail. So long as we avoid the more open plan southern gardens, a walk should be permissible, yes."

Without another word, Dyrn followed Lady Fortan, as the pair moved out into the open air. It was cool, with a faint breeze. With a narrowed gaze, the Guardsman scanned the nearby rooftops as his eyesight shifted to that of thermal vision. He saw no individuals, as far as he could tell, on the building tops beyond the tall residence fencing. Still, he would remain alert, and would place himself so that Lady Fortan was between himself and the wall - a walking shield, as was his duty.

When the Supreme Leader pulled the wrap around herself, Dyrn was already removing his jacket. He reached around her smaller form and placed the jacket over Lady Fortan's shoulders, to help keep her warm. It also doubled as another layer of armor protection. When he was asked about Naboo, and whether he had visited before, the Guard Captain shook his head.

"No, this is the first time, your Excellency," He said as he kept pace and kept glancing up at the surroundings every so often, just to remain aware. Dyrn looked back to Lady Fortan, his expression showing none of his concentration. "I've heard about how serene and beautiful it was. I can agree with that, with the oceans and lakes, and the unique building architecture. Seeing it now, in this evening light, just shows off more of the elegance I'd heard about. Of the city.

"And you, your Majesty? Have you been to Naboo before? Or seen other worlds comparable?"

The Guardsman fell silent and resumed his watch, as he listened attentively while keeping his eyes shifting...

______________________________

Natasi Fortan | Ariel Yvarro​

 

[Nine Lives]

Wearing: Nine's Obsidian Armor

Armed with: Hundred Handed Giant

Consular's Blood

With: Maple Harte (Maple's Equipment: Shroud of Madness, Survivor's Staff)

Objective: Village People

Nine was ambivalence on the whole issue of The First Order now being allies. On the one hand, she had spent years feeding on their kidnapped officers and Knights in secret as punishment for invading and occupying Atrisia way the hell back. On the other hand, one less enemy for the CIS.

Maple Harte, for years a former Jedi Shadow turned low rung Bounty Hunter was now back on the clock. As gratitude for going to Kar Shian to rescue her, Nine had made her a secondary apprentice, promising to find a way to cure her schizophrenia. She had yet to succeed, but had come up with a Stop Gap.

Maple, clad in torn, dusty Biker leathers, hair unkept after suffering a truly hellish delusion in which The Amalgam tortured her and those she loved again and again, observed the black and red fleshy sphere in a stasis chamber brought to her in her Guest Quarters by The Morpheus Knights. They were drastically reduced in number from what they had once been...there were two hundred Knights from the Old Guard left, and finding competent replacements had been put on the Back Burner for the moment.

Maple could feel it. It was alive. Tugging towards her.

She stripped off her biker leathers and began to shower, rubbing the hallucination sweat off, shuddering. Constant, extended hallucinations now, that were only milliseconds on the outside, but from her perspective lasted thousands or millions of years. Skip. The Amalgam laughed as she opened portals to the Netherrealm all over the Galaxy. Skip. Back to reality.

Maple approached the Sphere in her underwear, disabling Stasis Containment. The creature slid onto her with a cold, slick feeling that covered her body in black tissue with red, webbing like veins running through it.

To feel you...such...distress...it said mentally in her voice...Let us be one...hugging and caressing...

"Okaaaaaayyyyy..." Maple remarked. Damn thing was clingy already. Nine had warned her...

Speaking of Nine...

The Arch Psy-Pire waited patiently in her by now Antique Strike Armor, stained permanently with the Blood of Harch Warriors from a long ago attack. The hooded armor had a curious fractal pattern across its surface. Beyond the bloodstains, which Nine wore as a reminder to herself of what she had done that day, it was impeccably maintained.

Again, Maple noticed her twitchy, bird like head movements, how her shoulders hunched and fingers curled as Maple got close upon exiting her quarters.

"Ahh, I hope it doesn't feel too strange to wear, Maple..." Nine said.

"It started talking to me in my head with my voice. I got waaaaay more things to worry over about it at this point." Maple replied, observing her completely covered arms and head.

"Just don't wear it longer than fourteen hours, or cell bonding starts to occur...things get...messy, after that..." Nine warned.

"Of course, Sensei."

Nine began to walk with her to the Hangar where Meier waited to take them to the Surface of the planet where the Knights Obsidian were conducting trials with the First Order Imperial Knights.

"I have news for you about your condition..." Nine said. "Yours is truly a pernicious and degenerative one...the worst I've seen. The suit will suppress the worst of it, and the frequency...but I'm starting to think the only chance of really combating it may lie in either the technological or the Magical..." Nine explainedas they got in the in-ship tram. "Technology is where I am best at, I'm afraid...the Magic required to safely re-tune a brain without driving you completely psychotic or making your brains instagib themselves is highly specialized knowledge that I'm afraid I simply do not possess...but technology implants to the brain is a dicey business. I pursue that Avenue of research much slower. More cautiously..."

"I tried brain implants before..." Maple said. "They all failed..."

"You've tried everything 'Legal' medical research has to offer. I'm talking unethical, Black Market sorta chit like what I do..."

"Like Laertia's Nuetralizers?" Maple asked.

"I do believe our company brochures say 'I' am the designer."

"I know Laertia a lot better than you do, Nine. I know her work. You're an Artisan. Laertia is a Performer." Maple asserted.

Nine shrugged.

"Guilty..." Nine said.

"What's your assessment of her mental state."

"She's become a total hardliner for Uniting against The Bryn'adul. I think she's begun to despise The Jedi Order..." Nine confessed, the situation with Laertia having taken a dangerous turn. House Li-Ves had inserted itself into intergalactic politics at a Dangerous Level by funding the building of and producing the Nuetralizer Series Battle Droid. They had gotten a horrifically high kill count when deployed on even a small scale, one Droid capable of killing dozens of well armed, well trained soldiers and Force Adepts before being felled at last. With that would come dangerous attention...

But the CIS Weapons Developer had faced an all encompassing, all annihilating foe such as The Bryn'adul before. She knew what was at stake.

Even if she could not openly display it...

"I'm worried about her..." Maple confessed. "This war is tearing her apart mentally..."

"She has a lot of my Father's temperament..." Nine noted as the tram sped on.

It eventually came to a stop at the hangar, Ancient Atrisian Frescoes decorationg its walls and ceiling.

Maple stopped as she noticed a familiar face...

She was in slicker than normal looking silvery biker leathers with black spikes, her face that of a friend Maple thought murdered by The Amalgam. She was busy examining engine parts and engine check computers when Maple compulsively walked up to her.

"Lura!??" Maple exclaimed.

The Advanced Prototype turned to face the confused Maple.

A pleasant, unusually serene smile came over its face that creeped Maple out.

"Voice print Identification confirmed. Hello, Uri Udinia. My name is Io. Lyssa Io."

(Clip of Bond Theme Plays)

Maple, her schizophrenia allowing her to notice the OOC music crinkled an eyebrow upward under the Masquer covering her face.

"Why do you look like Lura?"

"I was programmed by my Mother, Laertia, with this face." Lyssa answered, serenity dissonant to Maple's clear distress.

"Ahh, they told me you were coming..." Nine remarked pleasantly, viewing the Nanite Assassin Droid, whose technology was derived from that of her Daughter, Westenra, as a sort of Niece.

Maple grew only more creeped out.

"Hello, Nine Lives." Lyssa said, before focusing back on Maple.

"Mother said you might be disturbed encountering me. I apologize for any distress I may have caused." Lyssa remarked in a loose, distant manner, even though her silvery irises were fixed right on Maple.

"I...you're her daughter?" Maple asked.

"I am programmed to view her as such."

Maple pitied Laertia and her need for family in a way she never had before.

"Soooo...what brings you here?"

"Mother thought it prudent that I explore the CIS on my own, get a feel for the land..." Lyssa explained in an almost drowsy manner. "Excellent data gathering so far...are you both heading to the military exercises?"

"Yes...would you like to come with us?" Nine asked.

"It would be a test of my prowess against Adepts. Your proposal is acceptable." Lyssa replied, not really having a fluctuation in emotion. Maple noticed she didn't breath, never moved in anyway except precisely, didn't blink, and was capable of remaining perfectly still.

"Well...nice to meet you, I guess..." Maple said in a confused manner.

"Mother says you are both highly skilled warriors. She says I could learn a lot from you." Lyssa noted as they all headed to the ship.

"I've never had the pleasure of instructing a niece before..." Nine said, eager to see just how much Laertia's work matched up against her own.

"I can give you a few pointers..." Maple muttered.

Fifteen minutes later...

As the planet was under heavy security due to the trianing exercises being conducted, Nine, Maple, and Lyssa faced a multitude of scans before being allowed to meet up with the Knights Obsidian. Lyssa especially had been subjected to heavy military scan. Only the fact this was presumably a CIS aligned Droid in the company of one of the Knight Obsidian's top weapons and tech Manufacturers allowed it to be passed through, and the security personnel were sweating bullets as it walked by them.

It wasn't long before Maple spotted Kurenai Yumi , and her almost impossible porcelain beauty brought to mind the times they had fought alongside each other. Those had been good times, when she had still been in the dark about the Amalgam. Before tge Amalgam had become a problem.

"Kurenai!" Maple called out, striding up to her old associate from the really early days, noticing Gerwald Lechner as well as his associates Cord Starfall and Palm-Imer .

"Long time no see! How's life been treating you? Oh! And nice to meet your friends!" Maple said, relieved to see a set of familiar faces. It brought her something close to happiness. She had met Gerwald while rescuing his Sister, Alwine. She'd known he was going places, even when she had still been semi-lucid. He hadn't disappointed. Skip. Gerwald and Kurenai were secretly from the Planet of Apples, scheming to turn everyone into seeds. Skip. Back to reality.

Nine bowed respectfully to both Gerwald and the relative of Sawa.

"A pleasure to meet you all. Thought I'd get out of the Castle and away from the research labs..." Nine said

 

[Valessia Brentioch]

Valessia watched the exchange between Natasi Fortan and Ariel Yvarro from the shadows. Quietly she emerged opposite of Natasi, watching the retreating form of the Supreme Leader and her guard. The Sith made a small push within the Force knowing that the Supreme Leader had been awakened to its calling. The push was more of a tease, and once more Valessia disappeared into the shadows only to emerge a few feet from Ariel to which she called out, "oh Ariel, darling how wonderful it is to see you."​

​

Ariel's staff was quick to keep her safe but when the Grand Moff indicated she knew Valessia. Well, that was all that Lady Brentioch-Creed needed she crossed the venue elegantly in her little black dress. "You are looking absolutely stunning my dear, and just where is your cousin, Her Majesty?"​

​

The Grand Moff was going to say something but Valessia was quick to stop her, "oh nevermind, please, come and talk with me and tell me everything that's happened since we last spoke, you don't call, you don't write," she scoffed with hurt, "leaving your dear auntie Valessia wondering if you're alright." After all, it isn't every day your dead cousin comes back from the Netherworld to lay claim to the throne over you... "I mean, you must be in a state, come and tell me all about it." She watched as the Force influenced Ariel and led the Grand Moff to spend time with the Sith. ​

​

"Oh and you needn't worry my daughter Alessandra Creed will be here shortly, and you two can ink the best deal this side of the Core," she remarked with that charming smile. The only two people who knew it to be a dangerous one were Natasi and Ale, and out of the two perhaps only one might say anything to save the Grand Moff from whatever it is the Sith was hoping to gain. ​

​

​

 

[Elisea Apollodor]

​

Nylea Apollodor was dressed as beautifully as ever, or at least Elisea thought so. "You look wonderful," complimented the Avalonian to her wife as she walked arm in arm with her toward the Military Ball's venue. Thankfully someone high up within FIMS said that they didn't have to wear their tacky dress blues to the event. "I'm sure we'll have a wonderful evening," she continued on as the cameras snapped photos but more importantly to Elisea she was able to see her beautiful Echani wife blush. "And..." the Avalonian's voice trailed as she whispered into the Echani's ear. "We can go somewhere else later tonight."​

​

Admittedly the two hadn't had a lot of time together, Elisea had been working doubles the last week to process a lot of the data coming in from the new systems that the First Order had recently welcomed into their family of worlds. So it meant that when Elisea did come home she often made it to the couch and passed right out into sleep for a few hours before getting up, grabbing a shower, and heading right back into the office. The Gala was definitely a welcomed reprieve most especially since having to help detox what felt like nearly half of the Starfighter Corps or Naval Officers after the contest on Solem.​

​

Open to Interaction​

 

[Darth Metus]

NABOO

How things had changed.

In the precious moments of quiet preceeding the event, Isley stood before his office window. A single chalice laid in hand, filled liberally with crimson wine. T'was a local brew, one that carried a sweet undertone. Looking back, the Vicelord never thought he would amount to this. With the days of his youth devoted to the warrior Mandalorians, and his early adulthood mired in the Dark Side, who would have foreseen that he would be standing here today? He raised the glass to his lips, indulging for just a moment in the sweetness. The road to arrive had been hard fought - and on the horizon there were certainly many more battles to fight. But just for one precious instant, Isley allowed himself to enjoy it.

With a satisfied sigh, the man got back to work.

The evening itself had been the culmination of untold effort. An Embassy had been promised during the last meeting of the Confederacy and First Order - and an Embassy had been erected. Theed now found itself with a new jewel within its crown. Delegates from across the stars would be making an appearance at the inaugural evening, and as the gracious hosts the Confederacy would warmly greet them all. The Vicelord, too, had a part to play. As the one elected to represent trillions, his signature would carry the weight of countless worlds. Countless peoples. In but one stroke of the pen, each soul under his care would be able to travel more easily. Work more easily. Especially beyond their borders.

Confederacy First had served its purpose and more. Now a new chapter was being written.

For his part, Isley had chosen his signature suit of royal hue. A crimson tie ran down its length, completing the selection of bold colors. Frankly, during his younger days, the Vicelord would have never set foot in a closet adorned with suits. It was beskar'gam or get the feth out. How immensely did times change indeed. It was in short order that he departed from the relative comfort of Polaris Court, headed into one of the viceregal speeders bound for the event. Within, he was joined by the sharply-dressed John Locke . Exarch. CEO. A man he had come to trust. Typically, the Vicelord would not be seen without his alabaster apprentice nearby. Yet, this evening, he had bid her to go ahead.

Reaching out, Isley placed his hand upon John's shoulder and offered a grin. "Thank you again for making this possible." he remarked. "After this, takeout's on me. You can get whatever you'd like." The Vicelord chuckle, referencing their running inside joke before settling into the seat. In but a few minutes' time, the speeder arrived and out he stepped. There were many smiles, handshakes, and waves given as Isley made his way forward. Eventually, his sulfuric gaze would settle upon the ladies of the hour: the Grand Moff and her excellency. Isley's expression only brightened when seeing the latter. Why, of all the people present, she had known him the longest.

They were comrades a lifetime ago. And, it seemed, they would be comrades of sorts yet again. The night grew ever sweeter. With arms opened wide, as if to embrace them all, the Vicelord bid them welcome.

"Welcome to Theed! It's wonderful to see you. I trust your travels were well?" he began. He paused, motioning to the Exarch at his side. "I am joined this evening by John Locke, Exarch of the Confederacy."

Man that just seemed to roll right off the tongue.​

Natasi Fortan | Ariel Yvarro | John Locke

 

[Nylea Apollodor]

With how busy Elisea had been the last number of weeks, Nylea was glad to be able to spend time with her wife again beyond the few moments on the couch every few days. Nylea herself during that time had made sure to keep their home tidy and well-stocked, with her free time primarily spent in a local gym. Many echani gathered there on a regular basis to meet and practice martial arts, a piece of Nylea's culture she had missed back when she lived on Monastery. It was good to have something to remind her of Eshan again.

Elisea's compliment brought a heavy red color to Nylea's cheeks as she looked to the ground for a moment in embarrassment. The realization that cameras were on them while they approached the venue caused the echani to quickly look back up again, though her cheeks remained flushed. "You look stunning as well, love," she responded, her eyes fixated on Elisea's figure once more. All she could do was grin like an idiot. "I do not have a surprise in store like last time though, sadly."

The final remark from Elisea, whispered directly into Nylea's ear, was as clear of a signal the echani could get. A silent nod let the Avalonian know she agreed with the idea. As much as she enjoyed spending the night with Elisea, the echani was never going to get used to formal settings such as this. That wasn't the only reason why she was more than okay with going somewhere else later in the night, either.

Elisea Apollodor | OPEN​

 

[Aithche Wierz]

Aithche shook her head with a small laugh and returned to her drink. She sipped on it thoughtfully before speaking “So am I to understand that you just all of a sudden decided to join the body that governs your planet and you receive an invitation to an embassy opening? I feel like I’m being played with sir” she said.

She wasn’t quite sure if she was after his next words. He’d never been offworld before until a couple of days ago? They must be really dredging the bottom of the barrel if this was the cream of their diplomatic corps. It was like sending a farmboy outside his village for the first time. Gods above, she almost felt bad for the sarcasm earlier now.

Her own smile was polite. “I think you might need to see a bit more of the galaxy before making sweeping statements like that” she said delicately. It sounded like his only knowledge of Jedi was from children’s stories. Part of her wanted to snap and just roar about what they were capable of but she reminded herself where she was.

“An attaché is one assigned to an ambassador’s staff, typically for a certain area or speciality. You have military, science, health, cultural attachés and so on” she explained, swirling the remains of her drink with a rueful look. “It’s a standard enough practice in diplomacy”.

Axile Volzap

 

[Axile Volzap]

"Well, I am sorry you feel that way," Axile replied. "Everyone has to start somewhere. Events like this will only serve to further my career, and the experience will be useful for future work on behalf of Naboo or the Confederacy. They have been very accommodating since I joined. They have given me a real chance, and I am very appreciative of it. I will pay them back someday."

He picked back up his glass and took another gulp. Setting it back down, smacking his lips as he did, he realized that the woman he was talking too had a negative viewpoint of the Jedi. He found this odd because while he hadn't yet met one to form an opinion for himself he had heard the stories of their legend. It would be difficult to meet someone who hadn't. They were as legendary as the Sith. He thought that if it wasn't for the Jedi then perhaps governments like the Confederacy- which espoused freedoms for all people in it's borders- then Naboo, and other worlds like it would be in the hands of the Empire.

He almost shuddered at the thought. Axile was a man who knew more then most about what it was like to be under the bane of the Sith, and the tragedies which often followed their iron, often bloodthirsty rule.

"I might have to get an attaché myself them," he said next in order to change the subject away from the Jedi. "If you ever need work I would be more then happy to make you mine. That is if you were interested?"

Aithche Wierz

 

[Aithche Wierz]

Oh gods above. Aithche knew a true believer when she saw one. She'd wasted the best years of her life in government service and carried the scars to show it. She'd had any idealism or blind patriotism beaten out of her nearly a decade ago at a burning firebase on Keskin. The First Order was her employer, her nation, but she'd be damned if she was going to sacrifice herself for any flag or piece of metal. She hoped his wakeup call would be less permanently damaging than hers had been.

She coughed at his comment, was he serious? Either that or a clumsy attempt at a come on. The boy looked to be nearly a decade her junior. Bless his heart. "I am a citizen of the First Order sir" she reminded him, "With no view towards defecting to the Confederacy any time soon. Besides, I think you might need more than a few days of service before you achieve ambassadorial status".

Axile Volzap