Shopping is My Cardio

[Marzena Vaas]

Social ~
Garden District, Avalonia

Marzena Choi was in a good mood, and that generally meant that she was in the mood to shop. Well, most moods that she experienced were a reason to shop – happy, sad, depressed, and angry. No matter her current emotional state, the celebrity certainly loved to frequent the boutiques. She walked with long strides, her heels clicking cheerfully against the stone sidewalk that was lined with high end retail stores. Her classic trench coat was just enough to guard against the slight chill in the air, and she wore it unbuttoned today to reveal a chic black dress beneath. Most did not know about the pop stars pregnancy, it was news that had not yet hit the tabloid circuit... but it wouldn’t be long now. She had already started to favor silhouettes that were a bit more forgiving than the form fitting clothes she normally liked.

With a few bags already hanging from her arms, she looked down to take stock of what she had purchased. A few maxi dresses, a couple of cashmere sweaters, and some high end lounge-wear. They all spoke to one thing – comfort. A gentle sigh escaped her red-tinted lips, since when did she start caring about being comfortable? Her eyes softened, and she let the palm of her hand rest gently against her stomach for a moment. She couldn’t help but smile.

Her gaze shifted across the street, suddenly drawn towards a menswear boutique. Marzena had seen very little of what the Garden District had to offer in terms of men’s clothing, and figured that it might be time to explore. Perhaps she would even pick out a few things for the Field Marshal, not that he had many opportunities to wear civilian clothing. Still, it wouldn’t hurt to add a few more pieces to his wardrobe.

Marzena crossed the street and entered a store called Social; it looked trendy without being overly obnoxious. She paused in front of a mannequin, her index finger tapping thoughtfully against her chin, silently imaging how her fiancé might look in such a style.

[member="Viktor DuSang"]

 

[Viktor DuSang]

"How does this look, Sebastian?"

The crimson eyed butler studied the young noble as he tapped his chin with a gloved finger. "I don't think that colour suits you, my Lord." Yellow eyes looked at himself in the mirror, the light blue jacket being taken off. "No. You're right. This is more Phie's colour." Putting the jacket back, he pulled out a red jacket with black lining. He put it on, looking at himself. "Now this I like."

"Agreed, my Lord."

"Needs an inch taken off the shoulders and two off of the sleeve." He pulled it off, tossing it over his shoulder as he held it with a single finger. He looked at his form in the mirror, giving a rather sly wink. "Heartbreaker, my Lord." the butler said. "Don't be cheeky, Sebastian." the noble retorted.

They took some time in Avalonia to do some club shopping. Viktor rarely had time off with his position as Chief Bodyguard, but with Ophelia living at Chateau DuSang, he hoped to take her to the clubs here on Avalonia. He and his sister enjoyed a night out. They would close down the clubs on Coruscant. Perhaps they could find enjoyment here on Dosuun.

Tossing the jacket into the butler's arms, he felt a presence enter the store. A presence that was growing life within her womb. Yellow eyes turned to see [member="Marzena Choi"] enter the store. He recognized her almost immediately. Her face was highly published, the pop star was her own brand. But, she was also a fierce loyalist to the First Order.

Viktor approached her quietly, bowing at the hip to her. "Ms. Choi? Earl Viktor Maurow-DuSang du Coruscant. This is my butler; Sebastian Faust." The butler folded the jacket, holding it in one arm as he bowed as well. "I hate to be a bother. But, with you being in your condition, perhaps my butler could carry your bags for you? It's no trouble at all. Right, Sebastian?"

"I would be honored, my Lady."

 

[Marzena Vaas]

Marzena’s thoughts were politely interrupted by a young man; she turned just in time to catch sight of him offering her a bow. She listened as he introduced himself and his butler, and she nodded in greeting to both men. Her dark eyes narrowed just slightly, this young noble with a long-winded name was somehow familiar. She managed to pull her attention back to the words [member="Viktor DuSang"] was now speaking, and she blinked a few times when she realized what he was saying. A hand instinctively came to rest over her stomach for a brief moment, before searching her clutch for a pair of sunglasses with large frames.

She placed the sunglasses on, even though most of the store patrons likely knew full well who she was.

“Lord DuSang, is it?” Marzena asked, unsure if she had captured the correct names and title. “It is lovely to meet you and Sebastian, and very kind of you to offer.”

Marzena found that Sebastian was waiting for her bags, and so she turned them over to him, just to keep him from looking awkward as he stood expectantly. Behind her dark frames, she eyed the yellow gaze of the Earl. Just how had he known? Most of her friends had not even been graced with the news. But this man, Viktor, he was young, good looking, stylish and obviously came from a noble family. It struck her that he was just the sort of man that her good friend, Jean Paul Renaud, would have loved. And those that knew Jean Paul also knew that he was such a gossip. Perhaps it had been a mistake to confide in him.

She inched closer to Viktor, and she spoke in a tone that wouldn’t carry far.

“Pardon me, but how exactly did you know I am... expecting?” Her hand came to rest on her hip. “Are you a friend of Jean Paul? Did he tell you?”

 

[Viktor DuSang]

"Please. Just call me Viktor. My title isn't worth much off of Coruscant. Besides, Lord DuSang is my father. Lovely to meet you as well." Sebastian bowed, taking the bags from the young woman. "It's no trouble at all. You're a respected member of the community, and a member of the Ministry of Culture. As a member of the Grand Moff's office, I would be paying disrespect to the First Order by not offering you assistance."

[member="Marzena Choi"] was obviously nervous. He watched her curiously. She stepped closer to him, her curiosity in him peaking. "I'm afraid I don't know a Jean Paul. Oh... Oh! Forgive me, Mademoiselle. I was unaware of your secrecy on the subject. I assure you I will keep it discreet." He paused, making sure he hadn't said anything loud enough for the present staff to hear. "I've acquired quite the reputation on Coruscant with all of the tabloid gossip I've been subject to. I wouldn't want that for you, Ms. Choi."

A light smirk crossed his lips, yellow eyes briefly closing. "Each life has it's own presence in the Force. The mother's energy has a special glow to it. Plus, I'm an empath. I can read the emotions of others as if they were an open book before me. Both of my parents were empaths, you see. I come from a strong lineage of Sith. My mother is a powerful Sith Sorceress. My father is a Sith Lord who fashions himself as a deity. Frankly, both of them wield power that's incomprehensible to the mortal mind..."

A light shudder raised through his spine as the thought crossed his mind. "Again, I hate to pry, but are you here to get something for Field Marshal Vaas? I saw you two at the Military Ball. Your gown was absolutely gorgeous by the way. Who designed it?" He paused, looking at Sebastian. "Oh. I almost forgot. My sister, [member="Ophelia DuSang"], is supposed to be joining me. She'd love to meet you. I hope you don't mind."

 

[Marzena Vaas]

Marzena was a bit flattered to hear that [member="Viktor DuSang"] thought her to be a respected member of the community. She did want people to see her for the First Order loyalist that she was, and not just because of her personal connections to the regime. Her gaze shifted down when he mentioned the Ministry of Culture, but luckily, her sunglasses masked this gesture. These days she could hardly count herself as a member of the Ministry, her relations with Minister Calinda had been few and thin – another result of her falling out with the Grand Moff.

“It’s quite all right,” Marzena started, stepping back to a more comfortable distance. She offered Viktor a friendly smile, her tense posture relaxing. “I suppose the people will know soon enough.”

It was something of a relief to meet someone that knew what it was like to contend with the media.

She listened as Viktor elaborated about the Force. Oh, so he was one of those people. Marzena had met very few force-users, at least to her knowledge. It all seemed a bit too mystic and strange to wrap her mind around. But she offered him a slight nod in thanks for the explanation.

Marzena turned her attention momentarily to the table of dress shirts nearby, her slim fingers reached out to touch the soft cotton. Her eyes were drawn towards the darker shades. Menswear was complex and different, the sizing was difficult to gauge, especially as she did not have the Field Marshal’s exact measurements with her. She knew that his chest and shoulders were quite broad, but that was it. She blinked and looked over her shoulder at Viktor as he spoke.

“Oh, yes. I thought it might be nice to get the Field Marshal a gift.” She smiled; the sparkling diamond on her finger was quite visible as she motioned towards the dress shirts. “Thank you, my dress was actually designed by Jean Paul. He’s a very talented designer based in Cloud City, a good friend, and a terrible gossip.” She said with a small chuckle.

Marzena moved on towards a display case of wrist watches. Now this was a better option. Her dark eyes scanned the row of designer options, and her index finger tapped against the glass. The sales woman nodded, removed the watch from the display, and held it out for Marzena to examine. It was sleek, dark, and quite minimal in style – just the sort of aesthetic that Ludolf liked. She nodded to the woman, and made the purchase. As the watch was being carefully wrapped and placed into a small bag, she turned back to Viktor.

“Can I treat the two of you to lunch?” She retrieved the small bag, “It’s the least I can do to repay your kindness.”

She always took the opportunity to make new friends, and it seemed that Viktor and [member="Ophelia DuSang"] were the well-connected types.

 

[Ophelia DuSang]

Ophelia hummed thoughtfully to herself, drifting between displays in one of the Garden District’s dress shops. She would stop on occasion to thoughtfully considering a frock, drinking in the colors and fabrics and dimensions, before moving on. The boutique clerk there that day was a cheery woman with silver hair. She would occasionally pop out from behind her counter and float at Phie’s side, offering her expertise and opinions.

“Oh, that is a lovely shade, dear.” The clerk reached to tenderly touch the hem of a lavender slip dress. It was shining satin with a sheer edge. Very delicate. Ophelia deliberated as the woman at her side continued, “It will work with your completion. And you can dress it up or dress it down.”

“Thank you, but…” She breathed an apologetic sigh, “I just feel it’s a little daring for my tastes. You see, it reminds me a bit of…” She trailed off before turning to the clerk to whisper, “Lingerie.”

“Oh my goodness! I completely see what you mean now.” The woman exclaimed dramatically, all at once the living embodiment of the customer always being right. She peered around Phie’s shoulder to another rack, “Allow me to show you something in a flare, perhaps? A more substantial fabric in a classic cut.”

Ophelia followed politely. She had been in the woman’s store for a half an hour or more, after all, and she had yet to buy anything. The least she could do was humor her. Much to her own dismay, Phie had always been tad indecisive when it came to shopping for clothes. Her brother Viktor was usually there for her, though. Telling her, 'yes, keep that one' or 'no, take it off, burn it and toss the ashes into the nearest sun'.

The clerk brought her to a display of charming frocks; fit in the waists with skirts that bloomed outward like a filigree bells. Ophelia had glimpsed the dresses when she walked in but passed over them. For some reason, they charmed her now. Certainly worth a second look.

“The lace was made here on Avalonia.” The clerk explained, her practiced hand running over the line of one of the dresses. The one she was showcasing had been dyed pale cream, “You won’t find another like it off planet, I assure you. I can take your measurements and have this altered so and it will fit your figure like a glove. Very… as you Coruscanti say… haute couture.”

Ophelia could not help but be amused at the last comment. It was an excellent tactic, deciphering an accent to close a sale. She chuckled warmly, her smile glowing, “Oh, you’ve swayed me. I’ll take it.” Glancing around the boutique, she looked for a clock to check the time, “Will the measurements take long? I’m supposed to meet my brother soon.”

“Not very long at all, my dear.” The woman collected the dress, cradling it in both arms. She then gestured with her head, “Right this way, please.”

[member="Viktor DuSang"] | [member="Marzena Choi"]

 

[Viktor DuSang]

She was an odd creature. Reclusive and inquisitive, so much different than the persona she projected in the spotlight. As her hand reached forward, yellow eyes rested on the ring. "Oh. And you're engaged. C'est magnifique. Happy news all around for you, it would seem. I hope the fates continue to bring you these blessings." he said with a smile.

His finger rested on his lip as he looked at the shirts. "The Field Marshal is a very serious man. This style of shirt will reflect that. Bold stitches. Straight cut." His finger tapped a few more times. "Tell him to leave the top two buttons unbuttoned when not in uniform. The public love a man that's relatable. Nothing says relatable more than comfort wear."

He stopped, looking to the pop star. "You don't mean Jean Paul Renaud, do you? I absolutely love his work. A good friend, you say? You are lucky indeed." he said to [member="Marzena Choi"]. Sebastian slipped a few steps back, not getting in anyone's way. "Lunch? Why yes. That would be quite lovely, thank you. But, we wouldn't want to impose, of course."

His thoughts slipped to [member="Ophelia DuSang"], wondering where his sister had gone off to.

 

[Marzena Vaas]

Marzena’s dark lashes fluttered and her own eyes shifted down towards the ring on her finger. A soft smile appeared on her face. [member="Viktor DuSang"] was the first to offer her such kind words about the engagement, there weren’t many people aside from family that knew. A formal announcement had not been issued as of yet. “Indeed, very happy news all around.” Marzena echoed, truly feeling thankful for the good things that life had brought her way. “Thank you, Viktor.”

“The top two buttons? Hmm, I will keep that in mind.” Marzena said with a nod. If the Field Marshal’s wardrobe lacked anything, it would certainly be comfort wear. Her dark eyes swept over the table of dress shirts again. Upon second inspection, they were ever bit as stylish as before, but were perhaps not quite the look she was imaging for her man. Some of the fabrics had a bit of sheen, and she knew that he would want something dark and matte.

“Well, I would certainly welcome a bit of company for lunch.” She grinned, “It’s settled then.”

Marzena handed the small bag to Sebastian, and he added it to her collection of things. She took a last look around Social, satisfied that she had seen everything the shop had to offer. Of course, she did not want to rush Viktor, should he still wish to continue browsing here.

“There is another shop up the way with menswear – I’ve forgotten the name.” She placed a hand on her hip, eyes turning down to the side. “Anyway, would you mind if we started off that way? Perhaps we will find [member="Ophelia DuSang"] along the way. Or were you two planning to meet somewhere?”

 

[Ophelia DuSang]

The measuring and tailoring may have taken too long, Ophelia considered as the cheery clerk carefully wrapped her dress in soft tissue and placed it into a sea-blue box, “Oh, just a moment, dear.” She muttered, more to herself than to Phie, as she glanced about the counter, “Where has the ribbon gone?”

Ophelia, who had been searching her clutch for a credit chip, froze anxiously and just watched for a moment. Her eyes went wide and she forced a smile, “Oh, really, that’s quite all right.” Retrieving the translucent chip, she offered it to the silver-haired woman, “Here. Just… slip it into a bag and allow me to pay and I’ll be on my way.”

“Nonsense! A young lady leaving my store without a ribbon?” The clerk seemed exaggeratedly appalled by the idea. At one point, Phie actually saw her clutch at invisible pearls, “I would never tolerate such poor service and nor should you.” She asserted, quite firmly, before ducking below her counter to rummage through its shelves and drawers, all the while lowly murmuring. “In here? No. Perhaps over there. Where did it get off to?”

Ophelia's arm was still awkwardly extended, credit chip dangling at her fingertips, a statue but for her eyes. She glanced about the store for another soul who might help or, at the very least, someone with whom she might commiserate, but found herself quite alone, “I’m so sorry. I really didn’t mean to… offend your sensibilities.” She began, polite as a princess, “It’s just that, my brother is expect…”

“It must be in the back.” The clerk popped up and walked off promptly. It was as if she hadn’t even heard her.

Ophelia blinked and, after a lengthy beat, set the credit chip on the polished glass counter. Somewhat exasperated, she madly flirted with the idea of leaving the chip where it was and absconding with the dress box. Tempting. She gnawed at her lower lip, weighing the pros and cons; the breach of her personal security for freedom from her present predicament. Very tempting.

Just then, silver hair and rosy cheeks reappeared through the doorway leading to the storage room. In the clerk’s hand, a stream of calypso satin, “Foouuund it!” She sang.

Oh, thank the Gods.

***

Flying through the door, Ophelia clipped down the stone street. Handles of the shopping bag nestled in the crook of her arm, she dodged each passerby and planter. A hurried smile was offered when a local made eye contact and she bestowed a “good afternoon” when time allowed. Turning down a boulevard, she crossed a thoroughfare diagonally and found herself at a line of clothing shops which were guarded by a few dozen identically-sculpted trees.

“You must be here somewhere.” She sighed to herself, her pace slowing. Ophelia’s eyes glanced in shop windows as her sixth sense stealthily pulled her south. Finally, her feet stopped, “There.” Through of wall of stylishly paned windows, she spied her brother and his butler and... squinting to get a better look... a lovely young woman.

She puzzled for a moment, all of a sudden hesitant to enter the establishment. Had she interrupted something, she wondered? The overture to a date? Assessing the body language and evaluating the mood, though, she eventually dismissed the notion, especially after Sebastion turned and, with a head nod, wordlessly invited her in.

Well, I suppose it’s safe. She walked the length of the window until the came to the door, entered and gave her Viktor a dazzling-yet-apologetic smile, “Before you say anything, I know…” She crossed to him, leaning in to kiss one cheek and then the other, “… I am intolerably late.” Leaning back, she breathed and visibly relaxed, “I am so sorry. I was held up by…” She stopped, reaching for the right words, “… exemplary dress store etiquette.”

Ophelia retreated and glanced to his company. She smiled warmly, mentally giving her brother a little nudge, “Viktor, introduce me to your beautiful friend?”

[member="Marzena Choi"] |[member="Viktor DuSang"]

 

[Viktor DuSang]

"Oh? This is my first time shopping in Avalonia. I'm afraid I don't know any of the shops around here. But, yes. We'd be happy to accompany you. As for Ophelia..." Speak of the devil, and he will appear. His sentence was cut off as yellow eyes rested on his sister. She was rushed, flustered. She hated being late. She hated to be anything other than accommodating. These two behaviors often backfired for her.

The cheek kisses were reciprocated as he could only smile. "You're fine, Phie Phie. Je t'aime." He couldn't help but chuckle. "Yes, of course. Phie, this is Ms. [member="Marzena Choi"], the famous pop star. She's a very important citizen here for the First Empire. Marzena, this is my sister; Countess Ophelia Maurow-DuSang du Coruscant." He gave a sly smirk over to [member="Ophelia DuSang"] before continuing.

"We were just wrapping up here. Headed up to a fresh store right up the block. Marzena has invited us to lunch. I agreed, of course. You know me. I'm a sucker for people who know good fashion. She has exquisite tastes." He paused, looking over at Sebastian. "You brought the umbrella, n'est-ce pas?" Sebastian nodded. "Excellent." He leaned back in.

"Garhans. They're exceptionally vulnerable in sunlight. He's the best butler anyone can ask for..."

 

[Marzena Vaas]

Marzena heard the chime that signaled the arrival of a new customer, and she turned to see a woman walk through the door. Her dark lashes fluttered, almost taken off her guard by the young lady’s stunning and delicate features. She could honestly have been a model. Marzena watched wordlessly as the pretty blonde approached, and her eyes swiveled back and forth between her and [member="Viktor DuSang"]. She supposed that there was a resemblance between the two, both seemingly blessed with good looks and an abundance of charm.

The pop star had taken a half-step back when [member="Ophelia DuSang"] moved in to greet her brother. And she offered a warm smile when Viktor completed the introductions. “I am very pleased to meet you, Ophelia.” She hoped that the Countess would not object to being addressed in such a casual manner.

“Your brother and Sebastian were so kind to offer to escort me today,” She nodded, “How could I refuse? But I hope you don’t mind my intrusion.” Marzena added a friendly laugh to keep the mood light. "Yes, there is a wonderful boutique up the way... it has both menswear and womenswear, a bit of something for everyone. Shall we?”

As she made her way towards the exit, she took a moment to ponder their options for lunch. She had spent a few afternoons here in the Garden District and was quickly getting to know the popular spots. There was a lovely restaurant called Café Flora, it boasted a wonderfully fresh menu with plenty of healthy and delicious dishes. They had a patio outside, where the three could dine alfresco. Marzena kept her pace easy, but maintained a respectful distance from the DuSang siblings... just in case they wanted to catch up a bit without her.

The walk to the next store was not far, she could already see the sign up ahead. Galliano, yes... that’s what it was called. She had been there a few times before; the styles offered were quite minimal and modern – sharp lines, clean silhouettes, and high quality textiles.

 

[Ophelia DuSang]

Of course she was a pop star. Ophelia’s head inclined as she appraised. Marzena Choi was something of a modern masterpiece. Equal parts catwalk and ballet. Phie was she sure could recall seeing her dove-like visage on the glowing covers of holomagazines, in fact. With a face like that, her albums certainly flew off the shelves.

“I am so pleased to meet you, Marzena.” She spoke through a shining smile. Half star struck, perhaps, and half amused. Viktor always did love surrounding himself with pretty things, “And I can’t wait to get to know you better.”

At her shoulder, Sabastian bowed and offered his hand to take her bag. Ophelia gave it over gratefully. He was carrying several already, but the butler was nothing if not extraordinary. She had seen him accomplish far greater feats than prevailing over being encumbered, “Thank you.”

She followed the pop star out, keeping Viktor at her shoulder. Ophelia could not help but be proud of her baby brother when Marzena mentioned his chivalry. Being the oldest, she did have a small hand in raising him, after all. And as for her comment about being and intrusion, heavens no. She was just being polite, surely. What could be better than a restful afternoon spent in such affable company?

[SIZE=11pt]They meandered easily down the smooth stone pathway. Ophelia noticed Marzen’s gaze lift to read a sign. A bit of something for everyone, she had said. Phie was suddenly so happy for the company she kept, “Viktor is an expert at putting an outfit together.” She declared, her eyes moving to the pop star, “Has he demonstrated his flair for fashion yet?”[/SIZE]

[member="Marzena Choi"] | [member="Viktor DuSang"]

 

[Viktor DuSang]

It was good to see that [member="Ophelia DuSang"] and [member="Marzena Choi"] were seemingly getting along so well. "Don't mention it, mademoiselle. It's nothing, really." Marzena's comments on his and Sebastian's behavior sent a wave of pride through Phie. He couldn't help but blush a bit as his sister beamed over him. True, she were his older sibling, and she did play a significant part in raising him. But now that they were older, Viktor was her protector.

The Galaxy was an ugly place, and he felt it was his responsibility to keep it hidden from his sister's beauty. She was ever the optimist. The brightest of souls. In their childhood on Korriban, she was a beacon of light in that dark, dark desert. There was so much of her that reminded him of their mother. She had her smile, her eyes. The darkness hadn't corrupted her genes as they did his. She was perfect in every way.

As the ladies left the store, he opened up the umbrella, keeping Sebastian in the shade. "This is unbearable, my Lord. You shouldn't be holding an umbrella for me." the butler complained. "Nonsense, Sebastian. It's the least I could do." Walking into the store, his blush returned as he heard his sister once more gushing over him. "S'arrêter. Je suis tellement gênée, Phie Phie..." he said in a hushed tone.

Putting the umbrella away, he began walking around the store. She was right, however. He had an impeccable eye for fashion. Grabbing a few dresses, he walked back to Ophelia. "These would look lovely on you, dear sister." A few more dresses and he moved back to Marzena. "And these would look exceptional on you. Maybe with some black heels..."

 

[Marzena Vaas]

GALLIANO

“Welcome to Galliano,” A trendy saleswoman stepped forward to greet the foursome, “Do let us know if you need any assistance.”

The racks were lined in dark jewel tones, an elegant display of the pantone color story for the current season. Upon first glance, Marzena was immediately drawn towards clothing crafted in a lovely stone gray and warm taupe. She turned at the pleasant sound of [member="Ophelia DuSang"] at her side, and the pop star offered her a bright smile. Indeed, Viktor had already given her a bit of fashion advice for the Field Marshal, a little tip to help make him a bit more approachable.

“Hmm,” Her interest was piqued, “An expert, you say?”

And if on cue, [member="Viktor DuSang"] approached the two women with a number of suggestions for each. It seemed that Ophelia was quite right. Marzena’s slender hand reached for the hangers that the young nobleman had presented, and she turned a critical eye to each dress. Indeed, he had nailed her preferences with the precision of a professional wardrobe stylist. He had even suggested that she wear the ensembles with black heels. Usually she was the one giving fashion advice, but she would certainly not dismiss his.

“Thank you, Viktor.” Marzena grinned, “My, my... perhaps I should hire you as my personal shopper.”

A hand rose gently, brushing against her red-tinted lips as she laughed softly – a sound that was almost musical. She shifted her attention to the items that Viktor had chosen for his sister, the dresses immediately spoke to a ladylike, sophisticated, and exquisite level of taste. Marzena nodded in approval, clothing that seemed to be a perfect complement to Ophelia’s petite figure and delicate features.

 

[Ophelia DuSang]

“You absolutely should hire him!” Phie called out after hearing the popstar speak. Her eyes were downward, examining one of the frocks Victor had selected. She had placed each neatly on a display table, “I know I did. Though, he won’t take a penny for his services, so don’t event attempt to offer.” She said with a gentle laugh. Warm as sunshine. Selecting a pale blue dress, she held it to her figure. Playful, she swayed a bit to test how the skirt moved around her hips.

“I was hopeless without him. Still am.” Holding the dress out again, she smiled at Marzena before crooking her neck to find her brother, “Remember that fundraiser on Coruscant, mon frère? We were both newly anointed. And I was so nervous I thought a dreary gray poncho would make me appear older and more austere.”

She shook her head, laughing the thought away, “He sorted me out, though. Called one of his many friends from the Core District who happened to have something suitable laying around from fashion week.” Phie sighed, tickled by the memory, “Thank the Gods.”

Her thoughts lapsed for a moment, her gaze turning inward. There was a part of her that always thought… no, hoped… her brother would be seduced by his college major and move into the world design. He had such an eye for it. Such an innate sense of how to cloak and clothe a person in a way that allowed their most beautiful qualities to shine.

Phie could see him, clear as day. Off stage on a runway. Appraising the gazelles he wrapped in his couture as they seized the stage. Thousands of eyes would drink it in and adore him. His otherwise shadowed face lit by the rapid strobe of camera flashes. That was before responsibility called, of course. The family business.

“Marzena, my dove.” Changing the subject in her mind, "I love this store. Thank you for sharing it." Phie was mindful of her affect and did her best to project cheer and kindness, “How did you come to know this district so well? Do you live here on Dosuun?”

[member="Marzena Choi"] | [member="Viktor DuSang"]

 

[Viktor DuSang]

Circling back to [member="Ophelia DuSang"] and [member="Marzena Choi"], he could only smirk. "Simply seeing your radiance intensify is payment enough for me, Phie. It would be an honor, Marzena. We'll be sure to exchange contact so we can keep in touch." In his element, he drifted off again. Finding his way in front of a display, he flipped his jacket open as he rested his hands on his hips.

Hearing Ophelia speak of the fundraiser, he couldn't help but shake his head. It was a stressful enough day as it was. And his darling sister came to him last minute for advice on what to wear. "Like our father, she has a taste for a more classical fashion. But, look at her. She is the true prodigy of our lineage. A goddess incarnate. The gown I was able to secure helped accent her shoulders. All eyes were on us that evening. And they have yet to find anyone within the Hall of Lords that quite match our presence."

As much as he loved fashion, he honestly didn't think he could make a career out of it. Where Phie had graduated, school just felt so constricting to him. He lacked the patience to hit the books with her same fervor and determination. Fashion was his hobby. The thing that collected him when things were overbearing within the family business. Where Phie had trouble delving into the darkness, Viktor hit it with that same fire that pushed his sister through the University of Coruscant.

Perhaps there would be a day when he would return. But today was not that day. He was far too embedded within the First Order. And had learned more in his short time here than he did in the Academy, and among the Sith Assassins on Korriban. Coruscant would always be his home, but there was a particular charm to Dosuun that he couldn't resist. Something very captivating of the world.

 

[Marzena Vaas]

A smile grew on Marzena’s red-tinted lips as Ophelia spoke about her brother. It was easy to see that the two shared a close bond. There was part of her that wished her relationship with her own brother was as amicable. It wasn’t that they didn’t get along, but she had never felt like they were friends. Marzena turned slightly to face Viktor, and she nodded quickly at his suggestion to exchange contact information. “Yes, of course!” She beamed.

Her eyes lit up at the mention of fashion week, Marzena did her best to attend the seasonal shows. She had a few designer friends that always paraded their creations down the runway, and it truly was the best way to stay ahead of the trends. Perhaps there would be a trip in their future; it was nice to meet others that shared her love of quality and design.

She held on to the two dresses and draped them gently over her arm. Even though she had set out with intentions of purchasing some items for the Field Marshal, she figured that she should treat herself as well. Marzena glanced to the side as Ophelia spoke again, a sudden feeling of happiness washed over her, making her smile grow warmer.

“I’m glad you like it,” She said with a nod, “It is always more fun to shop with friends, isn’t it?”

Her gaze shifted from Ophelia to Viktor.

“Well, I recently moved here from Cloud City.” Marzena began to explain, “I truly love Bespin, but it was time to make a change.” Of course, it was nice to finally be sharing a home with her fiance’. And Marzena made a mental note to ensure that the DuSang family would be on the guest list for the wedding.

“And the two of you, do you live here as well?”

[member="Viktor DuSang"], [member="Ophelia DuSang"]