The Emperor's Ball

[Lynnori Cruz]

The Outer Rim, Galidraan, Blakeslee Falls Estate, The Garden Paths, Unspecified Time
Nightprowler | Interacting with [member="Kole Harper"] (Others TBD) ~ Young and Beautiful ~ "Hot summer nights, mid-July."
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Yeah, Lynnori would have definitely fallen if she hadn't slowed down. New shoes, uneven footing, the weight of someone behind her? A recipe for the disaster for the uncoordinated, and despite Lyn's skill in a starship, she was definitely classifiable as uncoordinated at times. Times like this, she was almost classifiable as a natural disaster and could warrant evacuation lest tragedy befalls.

His smile gave her confidence anyways, despite her gait pulling back to a more leisurely stroll, "I'm just eager to see what our dark overlords are serving." Her voice was low, conspiratorial, loud enough so Kole could hear but just perfectly judged to make sure nobody else did. Perhaps jokes like that weren't tolerated here, but she was too alive with the mania and the idea of this night to really think that through, "You'll get a cocktail." The Zeltron then said confidently, though she already had her own convoluted drink order brewing her mind. Alcoholics, right? There was something to be said about that behaviour, probably.

Just probably.

The snail's pace meant there was more time for floral sigh-seeing, which she had little interest in, but there was little else to look at save Kole, which she did often enough anyway. His face had become a curiosity of late; it seemed to be one you could glance at everywhere. Maybe he just had a lot of brothers. Maybe there was something more to the fact he seemed to have twins across the stars.

There was no way for her to suspect what he was, of course, beyond her obnoxious Human. That's all she saw him as despite the suspicions that floundered in the back of her mind that reminded her of all the strange, anomalous things that she had borne witness to. Things that should have put someone in the grave only giving him a stumble, the refusal of medical treatment save for glue. His mechanical mind. Was he aware of that potential? Maybe not. It could be impossible.

Well, there's been crazier stories.

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Evening Wear Attire

 

[Ria Misrani]

Alvarex's imperial uniform matched that of his father [member="Darth Carnifex"]'s with the small exception that his colors were flipped where there had been red there was black. The Prince even shaved his beard for the occasion, a surprise he was sure that [member="Adara Raxis"] to find funny if not her mother [member="Yasha Mantis"]. He stood tall and proud the Blackblade walked around his parents and patted his brother Sarlow on the shoulder. Sarlow did his best to not snarl, while the man's sisters Ephi and Mav descended arm in arm for the ballroom. "They pull all the stops out around here don't they?" He may have said to his great-uncle [member="Darth Prazutis"] on the way in. The Courtyard was magnificent. and inside he swore that he had been transported to something he had only seen in the movies.

He handed his invitation in and walked toward the announcer and waited for his turn, nervously he checked his uniform again. Everything was in order he was sure of it, he checked it twice and had his uncle, the Shadow Hand check it again. It seemed to pass his inspection, and then there was the whole deal with meeting Queen [member="Lady Kay"] Arenais this evening, although that was more so due to recent events than who she was to Yasha. Admittedly though he'd confess to the latter rather than the former, while he had not been present he felt it was slightly awkward on his part knowing what occurred.

"Prince Alvarex Zambrano of the Sith Empire," and then he stepped forward and took a look around the ballroom. He kept his bearings as he waved to those in the ballroom, and then turned around. The Prince wondered if he had run by her on his way in, he did make quite the beeline to the place at any rate. Adjusting his jacket, the young man quietly departed the ballroom and found himself back in the vestibule. If I were a mighty adorable Mand'alor where would I be... mhmmm, he pushed his lips to the side.

Politely did the Blackblade excuse himself and take a moment to look around for Yasha, and then he went back out into the Courtyard. From there it took but a moment, "ha, wow, I am a genius." He chided himself and then walked toward her, and of course, there was another with her and while he did not want to make presumptions he could only assume that it was the Queen herself.

"Wow." Alvarex's voice escaped him before he wanted it to, the Prince stopped a moment to admire Yasha's outfit, "you are just... you're beautiful, and you look gorgeous."

 

[Jor Kvall]

Before one would advance
through each doorway,
one must look about
and peer around,
because one can't know for sure
where enemies
sit in the hall beforehand.

-House Kvall intonation

Many paths had been tread by this man's boots,​

each mile showing in a new scuff or crevice,​

each scar and wound upon his armor its own medal of honor.​

For Jor Kvall had no formal uniform​

outside his battle gear,​

no medals of bravery to display​

aside from the wounds​

time-worn into his breastplate.​

Thus, when summoned by [member="Yasha Mantis"],​

he could think of no greater honorable clothing to wear​

than his battle-scales.​

a noticeable interruption in the sea of formal attire.​

For when one invites Mandalorians to the party,​

one should not be surprised​

when Mandalorian customs follow with them.​

​

Though he bore armor, his helmet was off,​

showing his wild blonde hair and dark beard,​

set between ice-blue eyes that told of his clan's ancient phenotype.​

A small ring of nobility circled his head,​

modest next to the crown of Yasha,​

yet signifying his status as an Alor.​

Upon his breast danced his sun medallion,​

coupled with his family ring,​

glinting upon his right hand.​

As the vessel of these ancient artifacts,​

he moved in tow behind [member="Kaine Australis"] and [member="[member="Lady Kay"]"] as they entered the ballroom.​

​

Jor Kvall's duty was ostensibly protection,​

yet he would find only the blades of tongues here tonight.​

The displaced Commenori queen​

was on no uncertain terms of hostility with the Sith,​

nor should she have pretense to be.​

It seemed that Mand'alor​

was caught between a mythosaur's jaws tonight,​

delicately balancing loyalty to her "aunt"​

and her attempted diplomacy with the ever-more destructive Sith.​

Elsewhere were First Order men,​

the issue of irrelevance in this unfolding drama.​

 

[Ishana Pavanos]

Galidraan

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Blakeslee Falls Estate
Courtyard, with the Wife.

Ishana honestly hated these things, she'd attended enough of these between the One Sith and the First Order. But, her wife [member="Kaalia Pavanos"] was quite insistent on this one so here she was. Then there was a debate about what to wear, Ishana could wear her old First Order military uniform but it had been awhile and to be quite honest it wasn't a requirement so she thought maybe a nice suit and tie. Then if only for a flickering moment she considered a dress, and casually mentioned it to her wife who seemed to be head over heels with the idea. Part of Ishana was more or less regretted it - but the other half? The half that actually did something decided, let's do the damn thing and make her happy. "Mhmmm, almost?" She said with a grin, her black dress was simple and the red shoes helped complete the 'imperial' theme.

"Indeed we are," the Balmorran disembarked their speeder and took in the courtyard for a moment. Her first immediate thought was this place reeks of money, and the second was it is lovely, finally, "I like the architecture of the place." Over the years the former TIE Pilot learned to not shoot from the hip when it came to speaking her mind. "And have I said you look hot tonight? Because you are totally and completely hot." She said with that Cheshire grin, she offered up her arm, "food and booze or dancing?" She honestly was thinking about food, it'd been a minute since she last had anything.

 

[Yasha Cadera]

Courtyard
Communing with [member="Lady Kay"] [member="Caz Australis"] [member="Kaine Australis"] [member="Adara Raxis"] [member="Alvarex Zambrano"] [member="Jor Kvall"]

“On the contrary, every moment others see you with chin high and dignified shoulders is a moment the Galaxy realizes Commenor is not beaten… merely… recuperating. This is your chance to show your strength, and I know that strength, Aunt Kay. You moved entire worlds with it before, this is just one night. We walk in as equals. We show the truth, you cannot be destroyed. Play the game. We’ll figure it out.” Yasha took [member="Lady Kay"]’s arm and watched as [member="Kaine Australis"] and [member="Adara Raxis"] scampered off for their own shenanigans. “Oh! Caz’ika made it! Beautiful, that’ll improve Kain’ik’s mood.”

“Prince Alvarex Zambrano of the Sith Empire,” The announcer in the ballroom echoed out into the courtyard, and the Infernal glanced up.

“Alvarex?” Scanning the crowd, she cursed her lack of buy’ce, which could have chimed her, shown his signature in infra-red. How did anyone find another being outside of armour? Yasha’s hand tightened on Kay’s arm, a blush to her cheeks rising unbidden. He was already inside. How did she miss him? He must have gone in with his mother and sisters, maybe his brother Sarlow…

“We need to get inside.” Yasha began to walk toward the announcer, her mission now to find the handsome Prince. And then, her breath was gone. Had she been a Lady of a more dainty culture, Yasha would have wondered if the corset was too tight… but there was no corset. No Mandalorian Goran would make armour which restricted the act of breathing. Standing in black and red, ever the sight was the warrior-Prince. Alvarex.

If truth be told, the invitation from [member="Fiolette Yvarro"] had far more weight, when she casually mentioned a certain Prince would attend. While her first instinct was to slug him across the jaw for being hard to find, Yasha’s amber eyes went wide.

“Your chin!” Yasha smacked her hand over her mouth, shoulders twitching up as she squeaked. He shaved!? There was a certain trepidation, when a woman thought of what a bearded gentleman looked like without his facial hair. Did he have a strong chin? Was the beard there for a reconstructive reason? In Alvarex's case, the beard must have been personal choice. "I like it."

He was gorgeous. Yasha stood lips parted in an ever growing smile as his words escaped the lips she saw better now. Dipping her chin down to cover the extent of her grin, Yasha glanced upward at his chiseled face.

“And you’re much the dashing Prince… Thank you, my… my Goran’e did amazing work on the dress… your suit is…” Fingers reached up to brush his collar and shoulder, lingering perhaps a bit too long before removing to clutch Kay’s hand.

“Prince Alvarex Zambrano, Queen Kay Arenais, my Aunt and Sovereign of Commenor. I do hope you both may get to know each other a little.” Whispers from Yasha’s Panathan servants Aiya & Tamar to the Imperial House Zambrano were prevalent where the relationship between Yasha and Kay was concerned. The closest living relative she had to a mother, Kay Arenais’ opinion was most dear indeed.

“Adara will love your suit… she’s gone ahead with Kain’ik and… I am certain she will want to dance, before she goes to bed… do you… want to dance?” Glancing to the announcer, Yasha licked her lips. [member="Jor Kvall"] was right, there were strong pairs of ragged teeth chomping at Yasha’s fate tonight. Some gentle, some obscene. Knowing her loyal Mandalorians were behind her, gave Yasha the impetus to keep her head.

“After we get inside… It’s our turn.”

 

[Darth Carnifex]

Eyes of darkness fixated on the sight of his wives, Salara and Invicta, making their way towards the Emperor in their lavish gowns of exquisite silk. At their approach he bent over, offering his hand to them as he accepted their love and planted a warm kiss on both of their lips one after the other, the smallest of them having to stand on the tips of their toes to reach him.

"Beloveds, you all look magnificent."

Besides Salara and Invicta in front of him, there were seven other women both to his side and behind him in no particular order of rank or favoritism. There was Antanasia on his left, a buxom Dathomirian who had sired three children with the Emperor and now mingled amongst the party guests in the traditional garb of Dathomir. Directly behind her was Mircalla, Human mother of two, who was still in mourning over the loss of her favorite son, Ancius, at the Red Coronation. At her side stood Ancius' sister, Artemisa, who often comforted her mother in these trying times of grief. To the Emperor's right was Izaszh, a Shi'ido who had taken the form of a caucasian woman with brilliant red hair and a fierce wicked face that oozed mischief. Her children were elsewhere at the ball, disguised as various species and genders to keep an eye out for any troublemakers on behalf of their step-mothers.

Behind Iza was Saijo, a towering Thyrsian warrior-queen whose rich ebony skin was decorated with bone-white tattoos of a tribal nature. Her eight children could be easily spotted amongst the crowd, for they had not only inherited their mother's dark complexion but their father's towering stature as well, and were inclined to wear vibrant golden jewelry as well. The Falleen Zona stood beside her, rich royal purples contrasting well with her deep green scales and pitch-black hair while her son, Tashet, stood not far away with his husband, the Nautolan Zam Zakarr, wrapped around his arm. Emma stood directly behind the Emperor, his body decorated with the traditional trappings of the Vahla faith and her face painted with ritualistic reds and blacks, her dark eyes scanning for her errant daughters in the crowd.

Yet out of all of them, only one truly stood out as vastly different, the half-Bothan Yisath.

Tall, imposing, and fiercely beautiful. Her long hircine ears were studded with piercings and jewelry, as were her spiraling horns draped with ceremonial fabric and hung rings of gold and copper. Her chest was bound back by tightly wound fabric, a cloak of animal hide hung from her shoulders to cover her brown-furred body. The legs which bent back and ended in cloven hooves were left unadorned, while her arms were riddled with bangles of different metals and her long talon-like fingernails were polished to a blackened shine. Comparatively, she was the newest member to join the Emperor's council of wives and had of her own volition been uninterested in the politics of the Empire, though even she could not pass up the opportunity to rub elbows with the best, brightest, and strongest of the Empire's hallowed elite.

Though she was mildly off-putting by the fact that she evil-eyed some guests and waggled her elongated tongue at them in warning when their awkward stares lingered too long.

"Let us enjoy the festivities you have so pain-staking arranged, my heart of hearts. This is a time to celebrate the immortality of our Empire, and the assuredness of our destiny as the future rulers of the galaxy." Even now his rhetoric was unflinching, his malignant eyes sparkling with pride and determination as many of his wives were given the opportunity to mingle as they saw fit, making sure to thank and give their proper affections to the Emperor before they disappeared into the night. Which was fine with the Emperor, as his senses caught wind of several new arrivals that warranted his attention.

Chiefly the child [member="Adara Raxis"] and the young woman [member="Tamara Wren"], both of whom he had a vested interest in.

He beckoned one and then the other over, not feeling particular about who met with him first.

[member="Salara Zambrano"] | [member="Invicta Zambrano"] | [member="Darth Prazutis"] | [member="Vaulkhar"]​

 

[Darth Empyrean]

Galidraan, Blakeslee Falls Estate

Currently In: The Ballroom, near the stairs to the courtyard.
Interacting With: [member="Nilia Saavilin"]
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Maliphant simply shook his head in response,

“I won’t make any promises.”, he said with a withheld laughter, leading the two of the dance floor.

As the two made their way from the floor, Maliphant made the mistake of grazing the shoulder of [member="Vaylin"], someone he hadn’t seen in more than a year; however he offered her no actual glance. In his memory, the two never had met, nor had they fought as they had before, but he looked identical to how he once did, if not a bit healthier in the eyes and shoulders; his hair far longer and healthier than it once was. It spoke oddly to the beauty he carried, in the odd androgynous manner that he was.

Glancing around however, he saw the likes of [member="Adrian Vandiir"], speaking to some child he didn’t care to meet at the moment. That and the almost odd amount of Mandalorians still in their armor, their religious form of formal he supposed; somewhat on par with the way Sith almost exclusively wore black for unknown reasons. With that thought, he minded his own wear before simply shrugging the thought off, speaking once more to Nilia who hung on his arm;

“Have you ever seen such an odd crowd?”, he said as his free hand grabbed the forearm wrapped in his other arm, a somewhat reassuring mannerism as he leaned in to speak to her in a mostly hushed tone.

“Is there anyone you wanted to meet?”, he said with a smile directed solely at his apprentice, considering all the power figures around him it was an oddly specific gesture, making her the center of his attention when there were so many power plays to be made.

 

[Taeli Raaf]

[member="Fiolette Yvarro"]

She was surprised by just how many people were here and were still arriving. It truly was a who's who of the Sith Empire and its allies and vassals. What did she want to do right now? The night had just begun, and she wasn't really all that hungry yet. Nor was she thirsty, especially for anything that might be at the bar except for water. Did she want to dance? The music was simply divine, and she highly suspected it would only remain at this level or even rise above it.

Mingle? There were so many dignitaries and other Sith here, some she knew by reputation, others she did not know.

"We can mingle or dance, it's your call, luv," she said to Fiolette. "The night is so young after all, plenty of time for everything else."

 

[Nilia Saavilin]

The Outer Rim, Galidraan, Blakeslee Falls Estate, The Ballroom, Unspecified Time
Forked Tongue | Interacting with [member="Darth Maliphant"] | [member="Vestille Thumahra"] ~ Glory and Gore ~ "You've been drinking like the world was gonna end - It didn't."
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"I've seen many crowds, Master," Nilia noted gently, but that polite smile turned shadowy after a few seconds, "--But you're right, none such as this." Sith mingled with Mandalorians who decidedly did not mingle with the other Mandalorians who mingled with First Order who mingled with--

That thought died in its tracks. There was a tip of confusion in Nilia's presence in the Force that was easily felt, a dryness in her throat. Sovereignty?

Were there more like her here? Ex-members of that ill-fated Wild Space monarchy? Of course, her time as an information broker had served her well in that regard. She'd heard of some Sovereignty fleeing to the Sith Empire instead of rejoining the old Galactic Empire's fold. It was entirely possible a few of them were here, that she could recall their presence in the Force from the brief encounters during military affairs not unlike this on the planet Eadu.

"I think..." It was impossible to miss the new layer to her voice, the slightly cold anticipation, "I think I'd quite like to find the Haunted Commander."

That had been his title, hadn't it? Commander Thumahra had been the pride of the Sovereignty back at the height of power, but now, she was almost certain having recalled his name in documents that crossed her desk linking him to the Sith. If he was here, perhaps an encounter would be cathartic. At any rate, dark eyes turned over to Maliphant, "Vestille, I think, his first name is?" Her gaze studied her Master's normally impassive face, to see if the name or even the odd suggestion spurred any emotion or recognition.

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Evening Wear Attire

 

[Vestille Thumahra]

Vestille Thumahra​

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Blakeslee Falls Estate, Galdiraan​

Accompanied By (Hopefully): [member="Kylea Varjo"]​

Objective: Blend In.​

Perhaps one of the rare times he breathed freely without a helm.

That wasn't to say that he particularly enjoyed the sensation, the fact that he was clad in a dress uniform rather than protective equipment and without a weapon at his side made his skin crawl; even if a solid number of his subordinates were stationed behind the scenes as security for the revelers within the Estate itself. If anything, Vestille wanted to be among them, providing security and 'enjoying' his time doing something useful and beneficial towards the Empire yet a good number of his men had actually suggested that it was a good idea to attend the ball not as a military man but-- More so as a human being capable of social interaction and enjoyment as opposed to his head-in-the-sand approach of constantly keeping himself on the battlefield. He debated and resisted at first but eventually he gave into the demands, allowing them to drag him along to obtain suitable attire and freshen the man that despite rumors existed underneath the armor that represented the newly titled General of the Sith Empire. It took some serious tidying up and 'professional touches' to get Vestille into some presentable order but, as he left the speeder that had delivered him to the event, out came a man that fit in, blended with the masses. Some offered their greetings and congratulations verbally, some even offered a handshake or two but when all was said and done they moved to the entrance and proceeded further into the estate.

To Vestille, they might as well have been the jaws of hell itself.

He too eventually found himself drawn to the security, handing them his invitation for the sake of formality. One of his men, who just so happened to be stationed on entry security gave the General a firm salute and later a pat on the shoulder. The kid was young, no doubt one of the new transfers into the 7th who had only just began to grasp the ropes of the rigorous doctrine of its Commanding Officer-- Vestille could tell that from his chipper tone of voice, the lack of blood and mud on his hands as the Private leaned over and mumbled; "Do try to have fun, sir--" the Legionary was clearly trying to be discreet; "--With half the ladies in there? I'd sell my organs to even just speak with them for five minutes."

A simple grunt came as the reply. The General moved into the centerpiece of this whole event, the ballroom.

There he would find himself a corner on the second floor and watch over the proceedings. He didn't understand any of it-- All the dancing, displays of affection and emotional attachments; he never had anything of the sort and never sought out information regarding any of it. Flickers came and went occasionally; a family who's face had blurred and been lost to time since the Galactic Empire. As a couple walked past and mentioned family, the lack of such finally dawned upon him. Rather than mingle at that moment, it seemed that tonight was to be a night of reflection, a night to come to terms that everything that Vestille Thumahra was remained buried under armor, weapons and a painting since gone over. Death Trooper, Supreme Commander, General--

"Champagne, sir?"

A waiter stood beside him, a tray upon his hand. It didn't take much for the General to nod his head, offering his silent thanks before taking a glass, granting it a sip as he fell back into silent thought. Supposedly there was to be someone accompanying him tonight, some arrangement made by his subordinates to try and give the General a little more of a public face. As the waiter took his leave, Vestille found himself alone with his subconscious yet again.

Tonight was going to be a long one.

 

[Rakaan Horne]

GALIDRAAN​

BLAKESLEE FALLS ESTATE​

THE GARDEN PATHS​

​

Kole was capable, more than capable. He could do these things that nobody else could. He was stronger than your average man by a considerable amount, more durable than anyone ever had any right to be, and more. His artificial mind had been programmed in such a way that he didn't dare question these things, there must be something in the water- something to do with his homeworld's gravity. It was strange to think of a Droid that so easily disguised themselves as a human, but it truly only made sense to believe that he hadn't a single clue as to what his origins really are. Tragic, almost. The discovery was certainly inevitable, and whether or not it was going to shatter him in two was yet to be seen. Not many could walk away whole from such a discovery. Understanding that they're a Droid, they're artificial... not real.

"That right?" Kole had retorted after shifting up alongside her again. That plain smile subtly existed across his features whilst moving alongside Lyn, hand in hand. There were all these plants in the garden, as expected, each as colourful as the next. Perhaps breathtaking to someone that found themselves as an enthusiast. Kole didn't truly care for the flowers, he had a living, breathing one next to him and stole a glance more than a few times in the process of shifting through the garden paths.

​"And you?" The Droid had asked, an eyebrow raised out of curiosity. He almost feared the answer he was bound to get, hoping that he wasn't some absolute bomb of alcohol percentage. Kole really knew that it was going to be, and whilst he was more than a little concerned he didn't truly mind. Seemed he always went with the flow, riding the current.

[member="Lynnori Cruz"]

 

[Astrid Gray]

It had been months since the events on Jaminere had transpired. An incident that had robbed Astrid of her legs. To this day she suffered from nightmares, even the occasional day terror whenever she was alone in her office; mind drifting away from the work on her desk.

The explosion, the burning and immense pain that had seared through her body.

Now there was nothing but hollowness, the phantom pain creeping along the edges as a reminder whenever she forgot. Sure, she had obtained replacements, but they were not the same. No matter how much technology had been thrown at them, they were still artificial.

Astrid exhaled, sitting in the back of her private speeder. She looked down at her legs, fleshy and smooth, as perfect as they ever had been. To anyone who didn't know about Jaminere, they wouldn't ever think they were mechanical. [member="Daro Tarsi"] and Cogmind had gone beyond with what Astrid had wanted, producing a pair of cybernetic limbs that naturally blended in with the rest.

Every credit paid their way had been worth it.

But that wasn't the only thing that was screwing with her nerves. It was the Ball; her first public appearance in months. Her time away had been officially addressed as 'needing time after the terrible events on Jaminere'. But Astrid still maintained her presence on SINN. It was something she could manage even in her condition at the time. Otherwise she probably would've gone mad with boredom.

The Ball was going to be the first real test. All the physical therapy had helped Astrid get back on her feet, to walk again. But she had yet to do so at an event that would span several hours. At the very least though, her feet were no long hurt wearing heels so much.

"Miss Gray, we've arrived." Her driver spoke, breaking the woman from her thoughts as the speeder gently landed before the Estate. Astrid waited patiently as the man; dressed in his own suit of course, departed from the vehicle and walked to her side.

"Thank you, dear." The young man opened the door and helped her out of the speeder. Almost immediately, Astrid was looking around at those that were also just arriving. The event already looked to be bustling with activity from just outside. She could only imagine what the ballroom was like. She caught sight of two familiar faces, employees of hers. Even if Astrid hadn't shown up tonight, her company still had a obligation to document the big events that happened within the Empire. This Ball was no exception. And as such, there were a small number of camera drones silently buzzing throughout the venue. Mainly to document it all, but also as an extra little layer of security.

Astrid was dressed in her usual outlandish style. A high-collared black and dark purple dress, highlighting her equally stylized hair. It was like nothing had changed, and to those not in that know; that was exactly the point.

As she made her way to the gates, the chatter began to erupt in her wake. Astrid was recognizable to anyone who stayed in Sith Space for more than day. By her own machinatopns with SINN. The news was broadcasted every day, and her face was always there to greet those tuning in. Whether anyone expected her to show up, didn't really matter. There had been all manner of rumours and speculation during her absence. But now here she was, alive and well at one of the biggest events the Sith Empire had hosted.

Handing her invitation over, Astrid was directed towards the ballroom to be announced. Internally, she was practically bouncing on her heels in anticipation. She thrived off all the attention.

Oh, how she had sorely missed it.

"Miss Astrid Gray, Mistress of Propaganda, CEO of the Sith-Imperial News Network, and Hero of the Empire."

Well...she could've done without the 'Hero' part. That was still a sore part of that whole incident.

 

[Kaalia Pavanos]

Looking to enjoy the evening with [member="Ishana Pavanos"]​

The courtyard​

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"Comparing anything to you is a bit unfair, I have to admit. Especially tonight."

When Ishana stepped out of the speeder and stood there for a moment, Kaalia couldn't help but sneak in another good look. It had been the first time she had ever seen her wife in a dress and it looked absolutely stunning on her. Ishana had been made very aware of that fact while trying it on beforehand, not only through the redhead's words but also the fact she couldn't help but swoon for a moment. It came with a lot of gratitude as well, though. Kaalia knew she wasn't the biggest fan of dresses, or these kind of events for that matter, but she still came along for her and decided on wearing a dress over a suit and tie. She would repay the favor sooner than later, that was the least she could do. Not that she minded that it likely meant spending more quality time with her, it really was a win-win in that regard.

"As much as I love the place, I am glad we don't live in it. The constant maintenance alone would probably drive me insane," Kaalia chuckled in response as she stepped out of the speeder herself. Their home was definitely a lot more modest, but that was exactly how she liked it. It had everything they needed and wanted, and there was no need for anything more than that. Still, that did not take away the fact she held a fondness for places like the Blakeslee Falls Estate. There just was no wish to be anything more than a visitor.

Ishana then commented on Kaalia's look before holding out her arm. It was completely out of place for the setting, unfiltered, most definitely cheeky, and truth be told, the redhead loved that about her. With reddening cheeks of embarrassment she placed her own arm around the brunette's, unable to resist smiling at the signature grin. There was nobody in the galaxy who was able to do those things to her but Ishana, and she made it look easy every single time. "You definitely have. Not in that way specifically, though." It took her a while to recover from being a bit flustered, but once she did and the effects the grin had on her settled down it was time to decide on what to do first.

"If I know you, and I'd like to think that I do," Kaalia playfully mentioned, "I would think you'd prefer getting a bite to eat first. And, truth be told, I am getting a bit peckish myself." Her head turned towards the path that would lead towards the outdoor dining and bar. "Unless I am wrong and you want to dance first, of course." Whatever the answer was, she would gladly go along with whatever Ishana preferred and head towards that destination. Both the food and the ballroom wouldn't be going anywhere anytime soon.

 

[Lynnori Cruz]

The Outer Rim, Galidraan, Blakeslee Falls Estate, The Garden Paths, Unspecified Time
Amaryllis | Interacting with [member="Kole Harper"] (Others TBD) ~ Young and Beautiful ~ "When you and I were forever wild."
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"Yeah, you seem the kind of guy who--" She paused in thought, clearly, she's done this sort of drinker's analysis before, "--Kind of guy who drinks a lot of whiskey and brandy and pretends it makes him look more masculine, but actually likes the fruity mixes way more."

"As for me..."

She shrugged bare pink shoulders, joined hands swaying, almost looking domestic except for the congregation of politicians, monarchs, and other no-gooders happening mere feet away in the ballroom, "Probably something Corellian. Or Twi'lek. Feeling exotic tonight." It all depended on what the bar served, of course, but there wasn't a chance in hell she'd be stuck with wine or something similar. If there was to be a party, there would be a party.

Both of the suggestions she had provided would be decidedly bad, anyways. A Twi'lek's mix had led her into the mess of a night that had been getting captured by [member=Koda Fett], who was also here, though how was the Zeltron more focused on completely-non-romantic strolls in flower beds meant to know that? It was better she didn't know, anyways. Awkward topics abound. Kole kept his secrets and she did too, many, not nearly as dark as his but similar in nature.

It was funny, how they could trust and distrust at once.

——————————————————————
Evening Wear Attire

 

[Briika Munin]

Galidraan
Blakeslee Falls Estate
Arrival~Courtyard
w/[member="Vilaz Munin"] [member="Ronan Vizsla"] [member="Tamara Wren"] [member="Irella Toldreyn"] [member="Koda Fett"]

​

So this was an afterthought.

When her husband had first brought up attending the Emperor's Ball, Briika said she'd pass. The exiled Mando had no desire to go get all dolled up to parade around in some fancy dress and spew false niceties with complete strangers or those one would not call friends or family per se. But upon further deliberation and many promises of things to come later from the Concordian, Bree agreed as long as she could wear the armor he had specially crafted for his riduur as an anniversary present a few years back. She was most definitely feminine, but no girly girl, and a Mandalorian above all so no need to go beyond that. It would do.

With Vilaz's wrist rockets and poison darts left on the ship well because, the Munin's accompanied members of Clan Vizsla and Fett to the gathering hosted by the Dark Lord of the Sith. The Baar'ur was dressed in her armor as the others in their group were. As they waited in line to gain entrance to the invitation-only event, Briika removed her silver-colored buy'ce that matched the rest of the beskar'gam worn, then tucked the helmet under her left arm. A hand rose from the other side and smoothed over the plaited hair-do that the petite blonde had chosen for the occasion.

The Tor-Munin turned her golden head as azure orbs gazed up at Vilaz standing beside her, then she leaned into the Warlord and whispered. "Remember, cyar'ika.... You assured me no disintegrations inside the palace," Bree quipped with an equal mix of joviality and seriousness.

 

[Rakaan Horne]

GALIDRAAN​

BLAKESLEE FALLS ESTATE​

THE GARDEN PATHS​

​

Kole quirked his brow in response, not necessarily shifting his gaze in her direction in it's entirety as much as he was peering through the corner of his eyes. Almost in disbelief, listening to the words Lyn chose as she answered his question. The HRD really did often drink that kind of booze. It had a certain kick to it that was preferable over anything else, and whilst he wasn't an alcoholic or a truly avid drinker it was something he indulged himself in more than enough times to really understand what it was that he enjoyed and what he didn't. Yet, he prompted the question in jest, "Am I not masculine enough? Cut deep."

"Don't go too exotic." Kole had replied, his head nudging forwards at the emphasised portion of the sentence. A drunk Zeltron running rampant throughout a ball with Sith Lords and Imperial Agents was the last thing that you could bring to the table and still get hired for... Well, it depends on the context. Kole felt as if he needed her on a leash, lest she fly with the wind and disappear only to remerge hours later in an even more disorientated state.

[member="Lynnori Cruz"]

 

[Karl Von Strauss]

Location: Main Ballroom
Gear: Suit
With: [member="Rowena Ewesa"] | Trying to initiate a dance

"Well that, Rowena, is because you are." Karl pulled her closer as they walked in the main ballroom of the Galidraan Mansion. Karl was blown away by the architecture of it all, it was way more impressive than the Von Strauss mansion, back on Kiffex. He heard the orchestra's music and was very impressed there was no instrument out of tune and it made him want to dance, especially with the lovely lady he brought that evening. He looked down at her and asked, "I never did inquire, if you had any dancing skills?" He had a very calming smile on his face. "It doesn't matter if you don't, I can take the lead. As a noble I had to learn how to anyways." He moved his right arm to a ninety degree with his white-gloved palm up. "Shall we?" He took a small bow with his head and motioned to the dance floor with left hand.

 

[Valgærd]

There was that exotic, alluring voice again.

At the tug of his hand, I leaned in, drawing myself ever nearer to the witch like we were children about to share a secret, or lovers about to share an embrace. In the shadows, I hoped he couldn't see how much I blushed at that second thought. The disadvantage, of course, of meeting another witch was that it would be likely very easy for him to reach out with his magic and feel everything I felt. There was little hiding emotions from people like us.

He came in close, way closer than I ought to have let him. How did he do that? I'd approached this evening with my guard up, vowing to not make any stupid mistakes or indeed even talk to anyone without reason. Yet, here I was, a hair's breadth from this witch, close enough to feel his breath wash over me, and trembling like a leaf.

I bit my lip, hoping he hadn't noticed the shiver race down my spine.

His words however caught my attention. Silver sliver? Personal feelings aside, Julian was an enigma, his words were as strange as he was, and I couldn't resist a puzzle. I felt a soft nuzzle against my ear as he continued, a soft gasp escaping my lips before I could bury it. Rather than begin to figure him out, his closeness seemed to only add more layers, as opposed to the chance to see through them.

Oh this was going to be fun.

I tilted my own head so that my lips ever so slightly brushed his ear,

"Secret... for secret." I repeated softly in agreement.

After I spoke I lingered there for just a moment before pulling away enough to meet his eyes. Secrets upon secrets and strangeness within strangeness all seemed to endlessly surround him. The chance to spend an evening unravelling them, to step with him in a dance of both body and mind...

Oh this was going to be fun.

​

[member="Julian Imani"]​

 

[Hira Mitsae]

[member="Umai"]

Some were players, others were played.

It was still up in the air which one Umai was.

Either way though, her reaction and retort made Julian smile against the side of her neck, before he pulled back a bit. "Dats da... spirit, miss Silver, leggo then, ah?" Offering his arm. They were so close to one another it brushed the line of her stomach. She had made some space, but only enough to look him in the eye. They were dark brown and they seemed to deepen if you focused on them.

Enough to pull you into them or make you drown in the vast current.

Hips touched as they walked side-by-side towards that large estate. For a moment Julian just hummed softly, enjoying the presence of her and the presence of the night all around them. "Ya not one, Silver, ya two. I feel it. Taste. There is da side of human, mm, yes. But there be more, no? Share da secret with me, why dontcha?" Glancing to the side and meeting her eye.

Leaning in just a bit.

His nose brushing her jaw again.

As if they were old lovers and not complete strangers who had just met. "I will return da favor... ya, I will for dat."

 

[Jake Awaud]

Planet: Galdraan
Location: Blakeslee Estate
Partied: [member="Yasha Mantis"] [member="Lady Kay"] [member="Caz Australis"] [member="Kaine Australis"] [member="Adara Raxis"] [member="Alvarex Zambrano"] [member="Jor Kvall"]

He was greeted by the Mand'alor with all grace that she did not need to for the newly appointed Chieften. Yet the bond that held Jaster and the Mand'alor must have been strong then others had said. He only greeted her with the same honor in show of his strong bond of loyalty that Clan Awaud was willing to show as well. While shaking her hand, she had covertly placed something in his hand and instinctively he placed it in his own pocket. If she wanted to show him, she would not need to hid it, since she did he only pocketed it until a later time.

However, he attempted to follow her with a heavy sweat that was making the air around him heavy. This must have been the Dark Side of the Force [member="Giddean Kuat"] had told him about. Being a Fighter Pilot, he never faced one of these Dark Siders in person before, and to feel their power from a distance. This was his first time to feel this kind of weight in all his life. He pushed through, thought he was only doing so in the name of the Mandalorain People. They were to have peace between one another, and as such he would not cause a problem. Peace was for the weak, thought his leaders felt it was needed in this time and age, so he would comply.

He followed behind [member="Yasha Mantis"] and [member="Lady Kay"] with the aid of [member="Jor Kvall"] it would seem they were to act as their protectors for the evening. He could not feel the Force from this other individual, nor from the Queen, so he was the only one on their side at this moment. He looked to the Queen of Commenor and could not understand it at all. His brother, the skills and tactical knowledge that he had along with the whole of the corporate fleet ran to the assistance of this Queen. It did not make sense as to the loyalties he held for her, all of it to just face death. Jaster was more Mandalorain then he was, so maybe he had a deeper understanding of this Warriors Death then he did.

The young Chieftain looked through the room, this place was what his friend had called the Dark Lair of the Rim. Maybe the Jedi was too suspicious of this bunch, though he did have to admit that they were greater in number then he could have imagened. Best to keep his guard up.

Just as he thought this however, the Mand'alor, the Great Chieftain of the Mandalorain Culture and People started to get tangled with a man. Jake was about to act instinctively, however he paused, his eyes pieced through the Force and looked into the form that mimicked that of a man. Thought as if he was staring into a void all he saw was the form of a Skeleton surrounded by a flame of black void as a flow of stars were dragged into this darkness. After a single blink, this image was gone, and replaced by the man who the Mand'alor called Prince Alvarex Zambrano.

What was that he saw, either way he relaxed and stood in a more militaristic stance in his suite. The Mand'alor could handle herself, he would move his attention to Queen Kay Arenais, she was the Chieftains' Guest, and thus one he would protect as well.