Starlight Festival | CIS Dominion of Falleen

[Malok]

F A L L E E N​

[ Theme ]​

At a glance, Falleen was flourishing.

As the sun just began to dip below the horizon, countless lights began to shine. Lanterns illuminated the streets of the Falleen Throne - capital of the far flung world. Although the fall of night was imminent, the city and her people could not be more awake. The sounds of laughter and cheer could be heard for miles - clapping and singing began to fill the air. Vibrant colors began to appear throughout the White District, which was the beating heart of the night's activities. The square soon featured a myriad of stalls and pavilions, with each promising fond memories and an exotic taste of Falleen culture.

There was clothing, souvenirs, beverages, food, and even live performers. Dancers and masked comedians! Singers and jugglers! Even a fortune teller.

And all of this - the Starlight Festival - was assembled to save a troubled world. For you see, underneath the smiles and dances of the native Falleen were worried hearts. The planet had fallen upon times so difficult that the adjacent worlds couldn't help but hear. It all began with a noble cause: to cleanse the sordid Yellow District into something pristine. Sparing no expense did the nobility undertake this task - and a square characterised by fountains and polished marble was born. The White District.

But by curbing all that had tainted the Yellow District to begin with, a trend began. Concerns with the treatment of the planet began to eat at the native's hearts...and their wallets. A spiral of well intentioned loss transpired. Occupations which caused the pollution were slashed. Funds which kept the wealthy afloat diminshed. The people began to go hungry. The government began to struggle. Soon, a Depression of collosal proportions gripped the planet. Yet, the Falleen were a noble people - they would not beg for aide. They would never admit that they were down.

And so their southern neighbors offered an olive branch. The Confederacy of Independent Systems encouraged the planet to expose the Galaxy to their culture by hosting the Starlight Festival. In doing so, the citizenry of the Confederacy would eagerly make the trip to the distant world and spend their hard earned credits. The boon from the night's activities would be a sign of things to come - for continued support through creative means guaranteed Falleen's return to the fold.

So now, as the stars began to twinkle in the heavens, did the gates fly open. Now, the credits began to flow and raffle tickets found their way into the hands of numerous guests. Now, the Starlight Festival began!

Spoiler: Festival Layout

Image Courtesy of: [member="Srina Talon"]​

1. Pavilion - Dancing & Live Music!
2. Performance Stage - Singers, Actresses, Improve & More!
3. Cantina - For All Your Alcoholic Needs!
4-7. Food Stalls - From Exotics Meats to Savory Treats, try them Here! Deep fried everything.
8-11. Novelties - Souvenirs, Clothing, Novelty Weapons, & More!
12-15. Games - Throw Knives, Knock over Pins, Dunk the Falleen & More for Prizes!
16. Lantern Stalls - Dedicate a Lantern to Someone Special & Let it Fly!
17-19. Attractions - A Ferris Wheel, Roller Coaster, and Petting Zoo await you!​

Spoiler: Raffle

Upon entering the festival all participants will be granted one ticket for the starship raffle. Upon hitting 50 Posts we will roll a ‘50 sided die’ and whichever number corresponds to the post number in the thread will decide who wins a ship! We will raffle three in total. They will be donated from House Verd, Inc. Keep posting for your chance to win big!

Spoiler: Tag

[member=AceReplica], [member="Aedan Miles"], [member="AJ Cean"], [member="Akabane Jarvik"], @Alden Kyr'nau, [member="Aleksander Miles"], [member="Anastasia Verd"], [member="Aoker Veru"], [member="Arabella Darkhold"], [member=Arlox], [member="Arthur Pendragon"], [member=Ash], [member="Aurelio Ilyin"], [member=Aut-X], [member="Averin An'Arach"], [member=Avo], @Aaya Clarke, [member=Azrik], [member=B1-990], [member=Ballen-Ist], [member="Bartic Myth'rand"], [member=BBZ-20], [member="Ben Mentel"], [member=BX-22222], [member=BX-24601], [member=BX-25233], [member=BX-72967], [member=BX-73300], [member=BX-75244], [member="Cairyn Midore"], [member="Causstik Rahn"], [member="Chalim Vern"], [member=Charr], [member="Chikako Liona"], [member="Dalton Kenway"], [member="Darth Interitus"], @Darth Metus, [member="Darth Rixas"], [member="Darth Seraphic"], [member="Daxton Bane"], [member=DE-16], [member="Derek Dib"], [member=Duidatos], [member="Ellion Corsair"], @Er'in Tenel, [member="Faa Vera"], [member="Galven Hansol"], [member=Gorm], [member="Hades Dai"], [member="Holowan Industries"], [member="Idaren Verd"], [member="Iris Issey"], [member="Jack Anderson"], [member="Jaya Tandris"], [member="Jia Darkhold"], [member=Jorah], [member=Jrogan], @Kaiya Haycon, [member="Kal Jaii"], [member="Kal Kandossii"], [member="Katarine Ryiah"], [member="Katria Vekarr"], [member="Katrine Van-Derveld"], [member="Keric Dynt"], [member="Ket Van-Derveld"], [member="Khonsu Amon"], Kurayami Bloodborn, [member="Kurenai Yumi"], [member="Lady Psyona"], [member=Lanna], [member=Lewis], [member="Lola An'Arach"], [member="Luna Terrik"], [member=Maanis], [member=Malok], [member="Marcus Collier"], [member="Marcus Lund"], [member="Maxerian Gron"], [member="Miki Starfallen"], [member="Morgan Redeaux"], [member="Muad Dib"], [member=Mythira], [member="Nasho Vesh"], [member="Nassier Zirfae"], [member="Natalie LaForte"], [member="Natasha Darkstar"], [member="Noviac Caligo"], [member=Nyx], [member="Orion Trex"], [member="Rale Elysar"], [member=Rapax], [member=Rashae], [member="Rena Namadi"], [member="Ryvan Tau'rae"], [member="Saine Kela"], [member="Samantha Jade"], [member="Seela Tarkona"], [member="Ser Burton Shaw"], [member=Sila], [member=Siqa] Verd, [member=Sko'saht], [member="Srina Talon"], [member="Surnin Strenger"], [member="Talbot Vitalis"], [member="The Fallen"], [member="Tiberius Royalblaze"], [member=Titan], [member="Tmoxin Temi"], [member="Tschov Bolyn"], [member="Valis Marr"], [member="Valjan Hon'rey"], [member="Verd Skirata"], [member="Vinten Veers"], [member="Vladimir Tedesky"], [member=Vuh'kis], [member="Werah Unon"], [member="Xero Wran"], [member="Yuna Hart"], [member="Zenva Vrotoa"]

[member="Stephanie Swail"], [member="Valae Kitra"]

 

[Darth Empyrean]

Area 6; Entranced by deep fried food...

The Starlight Festival, an attempt at catering to a culture scorned by domination. Its purpose was obvious in catering to the native population, but it wasn’t convincing. Not yet at least. While the concept was strong, what truly mattered was no issue arising; perhaps a shooting or fight gone bad. It didn’t take much to turn a party into a riot, just say the wrong thing at the wrong time, and throw a punch.

The Slave knew it better than most.

A grin swept over his expression as he entered the party, hair lazily set to the side and eyes glowing something fierce. What he carried was not a weapon by normal means, but a horrifying obituary written in the mind. He wasn’t a man, but a brutal abomination brought about by cruel indoctrination and jaded expressions. The Slave walked as a weapon in himself; something ready to lash out like the predator he was known to be.

Yet, his look betrayed it. He was well dressed, rings on his fingers and a coat lining his being; somehow a casual attire for The Slave. Beneath however, was something far more casual, with just a loose fitted, wide necked shirt that showed off The Dolos Necklace, while he had dark washed pants and boots beneath. Around him was no force aura, only the dark inebriations of a man drunk on power; something he found himself deeper and deeper in by the day.

Entering the festival, his senses were nearly overwhelmed if not for his experiences around parties; considering he threw a nearly constant one that roamed around the galaxy at a whim, this wasn’t that bad. Still, a smell pulled at his attention and brought his gaze quietly over to one of the various food stands nearby. On it was a man dipping some type of cookie desert into a fryer and handing them out for a few meager credits;

The Slave had never tried something like this before, so he was a bit intrigued by the prospect. A soft coo was let free from his pale lips as he began to meander through the crowd towards it…

“Oooo…”

 

[Darth Athora]

Area 14

This was a new feeling that was creeping it's vile way into Gerard's heart. Was this merriment? Maybe. Excitement? Possibly. Whatever it was, it drug him to Falleen to experience this festival for himself. It would do him good to get off of Adumar anyway. The further from the war, the better chance he had of living. Upon entering the White District, he immediately made his way towards a food stall. He had a quick look at their menu before figuring out what he wanted, despite knowing what he wanted beforehand. "One Fizzade. Grape." The man running the food stall nodded and reached into the depths of his cart, rummaging through ice and pulled out a glass bottle filled with purple drink. Gerard dropped a credit on the cart and walked off with his drink in hand.

As he walked around, few women drew his attention, but none were enticing enough for him to waste his breath upon, so he kept moving along, in search of something else to spend his time doing. "Perhaps I'll play a game." he sighed, looking about at the array of games the festival had lined up. He found himself a stool at a water gun shooting gallery where it seemed a few others were waiting for another to join in to begin. Hesat his drink on the ground by his feet, grabbed the water gun by the handles and took aim for the target.

"Now that we've got ourselves a full house, is everyone ready?" the game's announcer called out. The people shouted out affirmative responses while Gerard just nodded, not taking his eyes off the target. "Aim and fire!" the announcer called out. In that instant, the players pressed down on the guns' triggers and fired water at their targets. Whoever could fill up their balloon first would be the winner. It was a fairly close race, but Gerard hadn't missed a single drop on his target. In the end, he won. "We have a winner!" the announcer called out as he walked over to Gerard with a large teddy bear as his prize. "Uh, thanks." Gerard said unenthusiastically as he took hold of the teddy bear.

With his new prize under his arm and Fizzade in his hand, Gerard walked off in search of more fun time.

 

[Srina Talon]

Location: Area 5

Silvered eyes looked up at the lights with a fair sense of wonder. There were thick crowds, squealing children, and smiling faces from one end of the pathway to the other. Every time she worried that the route she’d chosen had become too dark, that she was ill-suited for her Master, Darth Metus did something to show her otherwise. The state of Falleen had become pitiable. The fact that they’d landed on such hard times trying to improve the quality of life for their people struck a chord for the young apprentice. It took courage to make change happen. Sometimes it backfired, but she respected the effort, all the same.

The Confederacy had come to help Falleen, to welcome them, imperfections and all, to a better future if they so desired. Their help was not contingent on the proud planet seceding to the CIS but there was the unwritten hope that the show of goodwill would convince them to become a member planet.

The tips of primrose lips were curved upward, just slightly, as she spun in a slow circle beside her Master. It was very, very rare, to see the Sith Lord without an Echani escort. Srina had been informed that they would likely be required to meet with Falleen officials at some point during this extravaganza so both she and the sable-skinned man beside her were a little more formal than some of the rest of the guests. Yet, until that time came, she intended to enjoy everything the festival had to offer.

Distant music filled her ears and she toyed with the leather belt of the summery dress she wore. It was mostly comprised of blush colored cotton, lightweight, with a strip of embroidered silk running down the middle. Once again she’d taken suggestions from her Masters attendant droids versus wearing an entire set of light armor. The relaxed fabric was both fitting and flowing while leaving pale shoulders and much of her back exposed to the warm air.

It was proper enough to seek political discussions and simple enough to remain comfortable. The fading sun left her with a warm, pearlescent glow, and it only intensified when she wrapped small fingers around her Masters wrist to tug him toward an attraction. “Let’s go see what everyone is looking at.”, she murmured, just loud enough for Darth Metus to hear.

There were several men with green skin, lizard-like, walking on stilts with decorated masks on. Their costumes were colorful and bright, bejeweled, with feathers sprouting from pageboy caps. They were forced to stand aside to let them through but they seemed to know exactly what they were doing, weaving through the crowd, doing tricks, and switching places with one another. “I’d like to see you try that.”, she informed Darth Metus with a mischievous, however aristocratic smile. ”You’d get two steps before falling flat.”

Srina felt almost entirely overwhelmed. There was so much to do, so many people, so much happiness and contentment riding through the Force that it was nearly dizzying. The slender Echani kept walking, taking in the flowers that lined pathways, the scent of fried foods, and glimmering lanterns strung here and there. Honestly, she didn’t know what to do first.

“Are you hungry Master?”, Srina questioned, knowing that usually, the first thing the Sith Lord sought out was some sort of snack. Most of what she smelled seemed like it might be a little too over processed for her tastes but something unique caught her eye. Still holding on to her Master, she watched with fascination as a man spun a paper cone in a machine of rapidly spinning sugar. It was bright pink in color and held the appearance of soft clouds. “What is this? It looks like fairy floss…”

“It’s sugar glass, miss.”, the vendor responded with a little half smile. He stared at the white-haired patron, perhaps a moment too long, before courteously asking if she wanted to order anything. “It’s a sweet confection. You’ll like it.”

Srina hedged about it, flip-flopping mentally, before nodding her dainty head. Metus had, as usual, instructed her to spend and purchase whatever she wanted. With credits exchanged, she accepted the paper cone, and looked at the rather large pink cotton ball. Curiously, she looked at her Master, entirely perplexed. “How do I even eat this?”

Graceful footsteps paused in mid-walk as she held it out to the dreadlocked man, silvery eyes glimmering with enjoyment. She loved new things. Endlessly, the little Echani was curious. “You try it first.”

[member="Darth Metus"]

 

[Armand Temi]

Location: Area 12, near the stage
Posts: 1

Lola sulked for a few days after the Silver Jedi party. She’d lost The Holdover, not only their first ship together but an antique Zygerrian Slave Cruiser. And while it wasn’t the best ride - it was creaky, weathered, smelling of misery most of the time, despite installing atomizer air fresheners around the vessel - it was their backup plan.

Now the An’Arach’s only owned The Lotus II, a sleek and powerful ship with the capacity to shoot a beam of ionized light that could melt durasteel as well as lay sleeper mines for anyone who gave chase.

“Hope you’re not too mad at me for passing out on the floor in a room full of Jedi,” she said, turning her head slightly to sneak a glance at his reaction. Her husband never really judged her too harshly, but there was a first time for everything as the saying went. Lola’s hangover had been punishing - cold sweats, nauseated stomach, anxiety attacks and a pounding headache. Perhaps that was penance enough.

Now they found themselves at The Starlight Festival. Would they get some real work from the CIS soon? All it seemed like they did was party and get wasted. Of course it could be worse. Lola could be back at her father’s dinner table on Indupar, cheeks almost hurting from keeping the fake smile from melting off her face.

“Oh look, Cap’n. A raffle for a starship.”

As Lola held the small strip of flimsi in her hand after plucking it off a roll, she thought that perhaps the gods would smile upon them and replace The Holdover she’d lost with a shiny, new toy.

[member="Averin An'Arach"]

 

[Daxton Bane]

Location: Pavillion

Trust Daxton to make an impression whenever there was a party, the leader of the Red Ravens arriving dressed in the very latest Falleen fashion. Carrying several perfect roses, he distributed those to the ladies who caught his eye, until finally his supply was exhausted, earning him appreciative coos from many ladies of court as well as approving glances from their mothers.

Under his watchful eyes, dozens of servitor droids began dispensing expensive flutes of celebratory wine he had brought Core to the assembled nobles, wealthy, powerful and influencial. In fact discrete gifts of fine vintages as well as expensive gifts of scents and jewelry from the Core and Outer Rim would make their way to the assembled guests. A goodwill gift to remind everyone of the potential for profit to be made with the Red Ravens as well the CIS.

Soon the wine did its magic and a group had gathered around Daxton to discuss the topic that was nearly everyones mind. A collection of nobles, merchants and military men, one could see that these individuals exercised a lot of influence on their society.

“Its the damned Imperial war machine, they want to swallow everything whole and the rest of the galaxy be damned. No one can stand up against them for long.” The head of a merchant clan lamented as several heads nodded in agreement.

“Having fought them myself, let me reassure you gentlemen that they bleed just like the rest of us. They use swarm tactics to simply overwhelm any system they target in the hopes of crushing all resistance as quickly as possible.”

A general with a lot of medals scoffed as he remarked, “We are more than a match for them. Should they come here we would fight them tooth and nail.”

“General, I have no doubt you would. I have no doubt that the industrious hard working people would fight to defend their homes. But let me ask you, how many fathers, sons and daughters would fall before your enemies blasters if you do? If they rain death from the sky or release plagues, where can you turn for help? When they blockade your world, how long before hunger and desparation has you tearing at each others throats?”

“And you are saying if we join the CIS this would never happen?” A wry noble asked, clearly hoping to catch the Sith making an impossible promise.

“No, that is not what I am saying. What I am saying is that as part of the CIS you wouldn’t have to go at it alone. To be honest, we could have done what they did, but we didn’t. We understand freedom, the freedom to make your own decisions. Not only can we extend our protective reach over you, we bring trade and commerce to your people, then imagine how much benefit everyone gains.”

A discrete tap on his right elbow caused him to turn in time to catch a smile from the green skinned vision before him. She nodded in the direction of the dance floor so Daxton said to his listeners, “And that gentlemen is my cue to leave you for now. Please consider what we discussed and perhaps I can discuss it in further detail after this set.”

 

[Er'in Tenel]

Location: 1

You can tell a Hapan among a crowd at night outside of Hapes - they're the only ones wearing light amplification lenses disguised as glasses - sunglasses, in this case, to prevent the amplified light leaking out too much.

Er'in was not the greatest fan of having to use them - eye contact was so important in any social situation - but she prefered them to the discrete contact lenses others wore, they had a certain flare and a sense of mystery.

She wove through the dance tent with the natural grace of someone born to entertaining, relishing the first true event she'd ever been to where someones life wasn't likely on the line. Where the plots were about galactic politics, not the demise of your own family. The very thought of her past made her both angry and joyful at the same time, a faintly feral and passionate smile touching her lips. She was free - free to wear her favorite purple dress, even if it had been out of Hapes fashion for years. Free to flirt with the numerous exceptionally charming Falleen of either gender. Free to dance with whom she chose.

Srina and their master were here somewhere, but the two had seemed very close from the first time she'd observed them, so decorum indiciated she leave them to their pleasures unless they sought her out. She had not desire to make an enemy of the person likely closest to her in background among her new... her new what? Allies? Friends? From all she'd been taught, people like her didn't have allies or friends. How strange to find them there. Perhaps she would not have to betray these ones.

But those were darker thoughts, she offered a bow to the beautiful Falleen woman she had been dancing with and gracefully stalked across the dance floor to collect a drink. Some people worked by showing off, and certainly, her attire was designed to catch the eye and the heart. But loud political discussion was crass, particularly at a dance. Instead the woman - a trader - had sought reassurance of favourable trade rates from the CIS, and it had been a simple matter to discuss the lowering of internal trade barriers and the benefit that would bring.

Her newly developing senses plucked at her mind, drawing her to a point of anger - she smiled, as much as the feeling warmed her, it would sadly never do. Seperating the Falleen and the young near-human who were arguing over the role of the Galactic Alliance in politics was easy - a step forward, a polite introduction, a half turn of the body to catch the eye and establish social dominance in one easy move. Then minutes later she and the Falleen - a politican named Serak, who supported membership with the Alliance over freedom - idiot, as if the alliance were any better than the Empire or the First Order - were dancing, and he only had eyes - and ears - for her. The combination of fading anger and rising desire was genuinely pleasant, an unexpected side effect she'd never have guessed at. It could easily be quite addictive to feed off the emotions of others, she though. She would need to watch that.

"You see, Alliance membership is undoubtedly desirable - I cannot disagree, but do you want to be dependant on their aid packages? Or their - you'll forgive me - rather chaotic system of government? I see your point regarding the need for stability and progress here on Falleen. You have a beautiful world and a beautiful people..." A soft smile caught his eye, how funny that manipulators could so easily be manipulated. She wasn't immune to the charms of the species - the air was heady with the scent of competing Falleen pheremones, but a mild booster shot to her system had softened the effect, and if one wanted to be seduced, then one could easily seduce the seducer, could she not.

Her life had changed beyond all recognition and she did not know what would become of it - only that no one would ever trap her again in tradition, propriety or any other means, as long as she had the strength.

And here, she did.

 

[Liuna]

Area: 4
Post: 1

Liuna had to admit that this was quite nice.

She’d never been to this world before, and the Starlight Festival was sure to make a good first impression. There were lively people, laughter, and the light-hearted mood that people needed in such dark times. Entering the festival grounds, the Mirialan woman stuffed her hands into the pockets of her leather jacket. The sky above was darkening, but it seemed that things were only getting started.

Glancing up, she could already see a few flickering lanterns floating serenely. She listened as one of the festival staff members directed patrons towards one of the stalls – one where they could light lanterns of their own. Her brows rose curiously. Perhaps she would pay a visit there later on. After having left her home world for the last time, her heart still felt full of conflict. Just maybe, this seemingly simple gesture would help bring her some peace.

She had her doubts, but it definitely wouldn’t hurt to honor her family here tonight.

For the moment, she turned her eyes towards the nearest grouping of stalls. It seemed like a popular area, and for good reason. The smell of exotic herbs and spices was in the air, and the tempting aroma of cooked meat was there to draw everyone in. Making her way over to one of the stalls, she hovered near the first stall. There was a man inside the stall, his hand dipped a skewer of meat into a thick batter and then dropped it into the fryer.

“Care to try, miss?” He asked, looking up at Liuna.

“Sure, why not?” With a bit of a shrug, she stepped up for a closer look. There was a fresh batch of skewers coming out of hot oil, and there were a variety of dipping sauces waiting to be tried.

“What do you like, miss? Sweet, salty, perhaps a bit… spicy?”

Her dark eyes narrowed as she inspected the options. There was a pleasantly sweet smelling brown sauce, a few that were tawny in color, another brown sauce flecked with red, and then a very intimidating sauce that was fiery.

“That one,” She pointed at the spiciest option.

 

[Grace Darkson]

Location: Near the Cantina (3), headed to the Lantern Stall (16)
Posts: 1

The cantina was far too loud.

She knew it was only her. It was the price she paid for power. For changing her body and going under the knife. For becoming something no one would look at, or acknowledge. A demon no one would talk to. Sighing, she pulled a hood over herself, wincing as she did. She needed to find someplace else. Somewhere quiet. A place to think about what she had been told. You are unstable. Reckless. Stupid. She understood what she had done, and she regretted none of it. Perhaps she lost some of the calm that had come to define her. Perhaps she had become reckless. But her mind, her intelligence was unaffected. Nothing would ever take that from her.

Stares of fear and disgust followed her as the woman made her way to the tent. The Mandragora certainly didn't seem to care. A single lantern, at least for now. Maybe she'd send another out later. Why were lanterns so expensive? Surely they weren't that hard to make? Right. Fundrasing. She knew that. "Who are you dedicating this to?" The Falleen behind the counter asked, seeming almost bored. Apparently, he'd seen it all before. Maybe he thought she was some type of Nautolan? It didn't matter.

"My mother." Her voice, quiet and broken, reflected something like pain. The man nodded, and she gave him the money. She had to find something to do. Somewhere to go. Gah, she was hungry. Maybe she should get some food.

 

[Katria Vekarr]

Location: Area 3 (Cantina)

There were few things in the galaxy that bothered her. While she wasn't apt to talk about such things with others, nor allow them to interfere with her work, she was far from able to completely ignore her concerns. And so, given that, it was easy enough to say that this particular job for the CIS was far from the most appealing. Falleens, along side Zeltrons, were one of a few species she was prone to avoiding if she could absolutely help it.

More than enough reason to focus on something other than her issue if she was required to "keep an eye out".

As such she found herself in the cantina of the festival, rather than on the dance floor or in any of the other various attractions. Like her father before her, drinking was one of the easiest ways she'd found she could drown out the discomforts she experienced while still maintaining a modicum of an edge in her work. It was almost as if she was more willing to monitor her alcohol intake than she was to try and wrangle with the particular talents of the Falleen species.

Needless to say she'd woven her way through the crowd with a subtle but detectable prejudice and finally come to settle herself in the least attractive part of the cantina. Working on her third Correlian Ale and what she could only describe as a decent entree, she observed the happenings outside at a safe distance. The only thing that wasn't distinctly partying was the earpiece lodged in her ear for the sake of keeping contact with Skiss who gladly kept her ship in proper order to leave if things took a turn for any kind of worse.

Setting down her drink as she finished a good portion of it, the young mercenary tilted her head and attempted to get a good look at what was happening outside. She couldn't make out any particular individuals but there was enough fraternizing to remind her that this was a festival and not some military operation. She could never tell with the Falleen however, much to her chagrin.

And so with another swig of her drink she continued to observe the festivities from a distance.

A safe distance.

 

[Eugen Aker]

Location 6 (Food Stalls)

At the festival grounds, the Jedi Shadow had just discovered the greatest threat to the galaxy.

It was not the Sith, but rather triple fried sticks of butter. She could feel her blood pressure and cholesterol rising just from looking at a vendor dunking racks of butter into a deep fryer. Likely hundreds (if not thousands) of calories and obscene amounts of sodium loaded in each bite.

"That's a quick way to self-induce a food coma," she joked to Kira. "I didn't believe the sign when they said they fried everything, but it looks like they really do."

There were some more conservative options like the classic corndog. She ordered one for herself, then looked over to her apprentice to see what she wanted.

"Have at it, I'm footing the bill."

She was actually quite interested to see what Kira would pick out for herself, still not knowledgeable about her preferences. While she had come to Confederacy space to check out the SJO's new allies with her own eyes, she also found the moment to be a great opportunity to bond outside of the campus environment of the Silver Rest.

Of course, neither looked the part of master or apprentice, but just a pair of friends enjoying festivities. Jyoti at least, the Echani dressed down in casual but trendy streetwear, sporting her favorite black bomber jacket.

There were a few other Silvers about across the grounds. Earlier, she had seen Liuna pass into the area on her own culinary journey. Once they received their food from the vendor, she might catch up with the Mirilian and see what delicious things she had found.

[member="Kira Novak"] [member="The Slave"] [member="Srina Talon"] [member="Liuna Ondizi"]

 

[Darth Athora]

Area 14

Gerard stopped to spectate a few of the games before his attention was grabbed by something anew. This woman, barely any clothes on her slim form, eyeing Gerard from across the way. She was being discreet in her flirting, but Gerard could tell what she wanted him. He finished off his Fizzade and threw the bottle in the nearest garbage bin before walking over to her. As he came closer, she walked away. He was confused. He thought that she wanted him. But then, as she was walking away, she looked back at Gerard as if she was confirming he was following her. This removed the doubt in his mind and he followed her all the way to a secluded alleyway just outside of the festival's view.

The sounds of water dripping and rats hustling by filled the otherwise silent alley. Gerard was a few feet away from the woman who enticed him into the alley. "Who are you?" he asked. The woman was fairly beautiful. Her scarlet hair was curly and reached the small of her back. Her skin was glistening and pale as the sheets of powder on Hoth. Her eyes were glistening emerald dreams. She was a perfect specimen in Gerard's eyes. But, something was wrong. He felt more than just lust for this woman. Something else.

"I am Marina." she answered. "I am from Adumar. I know who you are, Gerard Lussk." She formed a grin on her face before continuing, "And what you are." She backed up against the wall, somewhat veiled by darkness. Gerard walked over to her, pressing his body up against hers. She leaned in for a kiss and stopped just before their lips touched. "Take me.." she whispered, turning her head away from him and stretching her neck out for him. He could see her pulsing river-like veins beneath her flesh. He could not control himself at this point. He eased his mouth open as he made contact with her neck. His canine teeth grew as he sunk them into her neck. Despite the pain, Marina made no noise. She wanted this. Gerard would drink he dry and she'd give no fuss or resistance.

Once he finished, blood stained his lower jaw as Marina lay there on the ground, moments away from death. "M..Make me yours.." Gerard looked down at her, his eyes glowing a vibrant blue. "Very well." He reached in his inner jacket pocket and pulled out a switchblade. He unsheathed the blade and knelt down to Marina. Holding his wrist above her lips, he cut a slit into his flesh and dripped his blood into her mouth. "There. Once you turn, come find me." He stood back up and returned the knife to his pocket before pulling out a napkin. By this time, his wrist had healed. He used the napkin to wipe the blood from his face before leaving the alleyway and returning to the festivities.

 

[Lyla Quinn]

Location: The Entrance --> Area 6
Posts: 1
Attire: Sunset Silk
Drinks Had: Zero. Let's fix that.


One. Ugh. Two. Three. Four. Almost in, c'mon, OUCH. Just—very carefully. Five. Six. Fethin' stairs… Seven. Eight. Nine. YES. Finally.

"Aaaaand there's not a chance in kriffin' hell," Lyla Quinn declared under her breath, pausing just inside the grand entrance as she slapped her skirts out of the way and reached down to unbind the shimmering gold five-inch deathtraps strapped to her feet with a little more violence than necessary. The relief was immediate as her bare feet touched the ground, but there were voices behind her as others entered. Aware she was impeding progress the Twi'lek moved off to the side a bit, heels in one hand, purse in the other, trying not to look too excited to feel the grass under her toes. It was bad enough she'd arrived looking rather agonizingly constipated because of her shoes. Wearing a 'thrilled by grass' expression probably wouldn't help her out of the weirdo zone.

Checking quickly to make sure no one was watching, the smuggler enthusiastically chucked her glittering but pain-inducing heels into the large bushes next to the entrance. They sailed past one of the food stalls like a shooting star and disappeared into the greenery.


And that was the last time Lyla Quinn ever wore heels in her lifetime. Like, ever.


A quick lekku check and a short fuss with her gown, and she was ready.
In was almost impossible to drag herself away from the cuisine on display, but she wanted to survey the area first, see what else the event had to offer. Half the reason she was here tonight sans her crew was to test the waters of the Confederacy of Independent Systems, get a feel for what she was getting herself and her friends into here. So, look around now, stuff face later. It was a solid plan.

Until she saw the fried butter crisps. They were disappearing at an alarming rate.

It took her about half a second to decide she could definitely, definitely look around and stuff her face. Multitasking was a thing.

The gentle lighting caught the folds of her gown, playing with the sunset-colored silk and washing her pale, rose-gold skin in warmth as she cut through the meandering groups of people like a sword of twilight. She wasn't rude about it, but she was firm, unstoppable in her advance towards the last two fried butter crisps on the stand. The Twi'lek just about mowed down the last few people in her way, stepping directly on someone's ( [member="The Slave"] ) foot as she wound around him like an eel, not even bothering to look back or apologize. Her lekku quivered in anticipation almost imperceptibly in their fine, spider-web thin nets of gold as she swiped the last two from the stand, producing her credit chit from somewhere in her bra and all but throwing it at the chef behind the counter. She couldn't remember the last time she'd had anything so decadent. Couldn't even remember the last time she'd had real butter. A spacer's life doesn't allow for much good eatin'.

And now here she was, with two generous servings.

Lyla tucked her credit chit back into the top of her gown and turned around, triumphant.

 

[Averin An'Arach]

Location: 12
Posts: 1
With: [member="Lola An'Arach"]

Averin had not been overly bothered by the loss of The Holdover. Admittedly he wasn't thrilled that his darling wife had gambled away potential profit on a drinking contest. But seeing as she'd gotten the ship through reckless gambling, it was appropriate she lost it the same way. Still, it was potential profit down the drain and he'd been less sympathetic than he might normally have been while she'd recovered from her hangover. Allowing her to wallow in self-pity as her due reward for getting silly drunk, honestly, she'd mixed drugs and alcohol something he'd often warned her against so she deserved it.

"Considering what I did to half the padawans there, your behavior was not so noticeable love." He says with a chuckle as he wraps an arm around her waist. While not all of them had fallen prey to the spiked punch enough had to make the evening far more entertaining for all. He liked doing the party crashing thing and this festival was certainly looking to be entertaining, however, he was craving adventure. Unlike his wife though he wasn't keen on having a job handed to them from the CIS. They were pirates they shouldn't be waiting to be told what to do, they should be out there doing things.

They should be plundering cargo ships, intercepting military convoys, taking hostages, shanghaiing crew members. That was what it meant to be a pirate, yet Lola wanted them to act more like privateers and he'd yet to force the issue. Now she was holding up a slip of paper that might get them a new ship, as opposed to simply going out and capturing one. "Well, we don't really need another ship." He points out as he declines to take a raffle ticket of his own. The Lotus was their ship and they barely had enough crew to man her. Adding another ship was a tad impractical at this time.

 

[Kira Novak]

Location 6 (Food Stalls)

Kira shielded her eyes from the worst of the neon lights as she stepped onto the festival grounds. The Padawan walked side-by-side with her Master, letting her lead them through the party. She had shunned her Jedi garment in favor of simple grey dress pants with a dark long sleeve shirt. A little formal for the occasion, but no worse than wearing her robes. At least I don't stick out like a sore thumb like this, she thought. Kira felt empty without her lightsaber, but there was no place for the weapon here. It won't be needed, she told herself. You should have brought it just in case, her mind argued back, an ally today can be an enemy tomorrow. It's fine, she shook the thoughts away.

Her eyes began to adjust to their surroundings, and she gawked at all the different vendors as they passed them by. They were serving all manner of food and drink, and she could scarce name a third of what was being offered. Everything seemed so foreign to her. This is incredible. They were still only near the entrance, and all before her the festival expanded out, an infinite number of lanterns and lights just waiting for them. She felt a little apprehensive at first hearing that they would be going to this party, but so far it had gone well, better than expected even. We all need a little break every once in a while. It's nice to do something with Jyoti besides training or a missions, things to get to know each other a little better.

They stopped at a vendor where Jyoti purchased a corndog. Her Master looked at her expectantly, wondering what she wanted to order. She scanned the options quickly, looking for something she recognized. Kira preferred to go with what she knew was good, rather than trying something different and being disappointed. "I'll have that ice pop, please," she pointed to the frozen treat made up in the colors of Falleen. She smiled as the man handed it to her and Jyoti payed for it. "I used to get these on Taris all the time as a kid, though, they weren't quite so colorful. Thanks for this, really, I appreciate it." She took a lick of it and shivered.

"Where to now?" she asked Jyoti. "I can hear music on that stage over there," Kira pointed off in the distance. "Maybe we should go check it out? Do you think any other Silver Jedi are here?" she didn't know very many people in their Order, but she thought that Jyoti would have a better idea of who would be there.

[member="Jyoti Nooran"] [member="The Slave"] [member="Srina Talon"] [member="Liuna Ondizi"]

 

[Katrine Van-Derveld]

Location 1 (Stage)
Post: 1
Tag: [member="Karna Ramesha"]

It was a pretty ticket Katrine was holding in her hand which kept her attention. Karna was right behind her but in this scenario, he would just have to tag along because she was moving fast. She'd been told upon receiving it that if her number was chosen, she would win a ship though she didn't really know if she needed a ship. Katrine arrived here on her Mother's light freighter while hers was still secure on Ryloth since she hadn't gotten to fixing up and she'd always regarded Father's ship as her home though she imagined he was using it these days for his own adventures since she knew Mother didn't take it. So she didn't really know why she would need another ship but she figured she'd jump over that rancor when she reached it.

Her first stop was at the food court, picking up a delicacy and dropping a few credits on the counter, eating it as she moved to the second one, offering Karna a bite before finding a pretty treat which she suckled on while eating the meaty substance. The rest of the food didn't interest her right now, giving [member="Srina Talon"] and [member="Darth Metus"] a wave as she passed, moving to the next four, looking over at the souvenirs, clothing and weapons before she went on to the next, without getting anything. On her way to the next four, she was distracted by the pavilion, joining in to dance for a few steps before spotting the performance stage ahead of her, quickly getting her to move. "Come on!" She was already calling to Karna as she was rushing towards the stage. A few people were already there, mostly adjusting their equipment when she came on. "Can I sing?" She asked them, earning a confused look. "I'll start, you just try to catch up," she instructed when one of them nodded, her palm slightly moving to the beat she would need to sing her song.

After a few moments, the same guy was moving his head and lightly beginning to play as she began to sing her song, the rest of them slowly joining in to the guidance of her voice as she turned towards the crowd. Katrine loved to sing, same as her Father. And sometimes, she came up with some lyrics. This was definitely one of them.

 

[Daxton Bane]

Location: Pavillion Dance Floor

Dancing required as much skill and style as combat, so it was to no surprise that Daxton took to the dance floor like a fish to water. Smooth polished movements moving in rhythm to the beat of the music and his partner, he was one of the deadliest duelist in the galaxy for a good reason.

Drawing his partner close so he could look into her eyes, he teased he gently, “Let me guess, your father is the politician right?”

The startled surprise, the widening of the iris confirmed his suspicions. “How did you know?”

“Your father should never play Sabacc. He has too many tells to make a good player, was he approached and told to sabotage the talks in exchange for his markers getting wiped clean, right? Well tell him, not to worry, I bought all of his outstanding markers, provides he never touches a game of chance again.”

For a second the young Falleen studied Daxton as if seeing him for the first time. “Thank you. Your message will be well received. But can I ask a question, why did you do this?”

“Your father is a good man trapped in a bad situation. He passed laws which protect the commmon man from abuse, he has helped the needy out of his own pocket. I don't see why a good man should compromise because he was weak. He has been given a second chance, I pray he learn from his mistake and doesn’t repeat the sims of the past.”

“Thank you very much.”

“My pleasure Nevika. Now if you will so do me the honor of accompanying me. I smell something delightful in the air. Share a bite with me?”

 

[Daxton Bane]

(Apologies for double post)

 

[Malok]

Location: Area 5
Accompanying: [member="Srina Talon"]
Nearby: [member="The Slave"], [member="Liuna Ondizi"], @Jyori Nooran, [member="Lyla Quinn"], [member="Kira Novak"],

Darth Metus was like a little kid.

Although he knew that there was quite a bit riding on the success of the Festival, a large part of him was lost in the sights and sounds. The dazzling lights and vibrant colors captivated him. The aroma of deep fried everything made his mouth water. There was so much to do and see that, frankly, the Sith felt like bouncing from stall to stall with little care in the world. Of course, it did not help that there was someone just as eager as he by his side at all times.

Twirling, almost playfully, before him was [member="Srina Talon"]. She, the pale contrast to his world, was always within arm's reach for the most part. Whether it be during political ventures, training exercises, or simply enjoying the night's activities. And, for once, the Echani did not have to pull teeth for him to "come correct" to the Festival. Despite his sunglasses-at-night featured at the Silver Jedi's ball, today he dressed the part. Just in case they had to speak with some dignitaries towards the end.

While Srina turned heads in her summery dress, Darth Metus wore a black tunic embroidered with white patterns.

When the two arrived, it did not take long for Srina to act as the enabler and tug him towards what most of the patrons were gawking at. She was met with no resistance at all, but rather would find that his fingers laced through hers along the way. For a moment, they paused as two Falleen on stilts made their way past - and Srina just had to joke. "So you've got jokes? Ha." he retorted, grinning. "You wouldn't even get one step before falling flat." But, before they could gawk at even more of the performers, Srina led the way again.

This time she was led by her appetite most likely. Either that, or she acknowledged her Master's affinity for snacks all too well. To her question of Are you hungry Master? was given the brief answer: "Always."

Srina then stepped over to one stall in particular, captivated by the twirling cone held by the vendor. Both watched as he gathered together pink sugar into a plump cloud. Though, the vendor soon met a pair of unamused eyes when he caught him staring. Rude. When the Echani returned, she seemed...thoroughly confused at how to eat the 'sugar glass.' "Like this." he said, plucking off a piece and stuffing it between his lips. It quickly dissolved upon his tongue, leaving nothing but sweet bliss in its wake.

Without missing a beat he plucked off another piece and offered it to her. "Now you try, it's delicious."

[member="Srina Talon"]

 

[Chikako Liona]

Location: Area 8 clothing stall
Post: 1

Chikako childish 'eep' of delight as she looked through the many clothes on offer, it seemed that the CIS and locals had pulled out all the stocks for this heart-warming festival, and dare say she was very much enjoying it to the fullest. It was clear to see that such an even was designed to appeal to the local population, more of persuasion into joining the Confederacy then tiresome diplomacy and negotiation, or military intervention with annexation or straight up invasion. The young Duchess enjoyed this tactic much more, mainly for her own selfish want, but also knew that hosting such an even was not only cheaper, but entertained everyone involved and would spare much potential conflict.

"Ah, I love these old fashion festivals, so lively and fun, I should talk to the others about hosting some of our own back at the capital once this is ov- ohhh this one is pretty"! Her silver eyes fell upon a neat little purple/pink dress as she rambled away, its elaborate and alien design being rather intriguing. Her Jedi body guard let out a short sigh as Chikako gleefully played around with the eye-catching dress, "My Lady, do you really need to spend your time out here buy items you could very easily obtain through other means". Not only that it seemed a bit irresponsible for the heir to house Liona to be wandering around a festival full of other all sorts of people.

"Dear mister body guard, I would like you to remember that you serve me, and though I may still be a kid I have had my fair share of experiences out in wild space, I can handle myself just fine on my own, you are just here so people know that I am important". She gave a slight pouty 'hmfph' before returning to browsing through the stall, true she could very well have sent someone else to do this for her, heck maybe have her servants go straight to the manufacture of such clothing, but doing such would ruin the wonderful experience. There was no other feeling that being part of some big event, and the young duchess very much loved to mingle with other in the confederacy, it was also nice to have a vacation occasionally.