The Empress' Ball (PM for Invite)

[Nimue Stormson]

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fnenU_How_o​

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The entire city of Halaban, the capital city of the planet Effekt, had been a buzz for over a week when Empress Nimue Stormson had made her announcement. They were to hold a royal ball welcoming people of all importance from across the galaxy. It was time for Effekt to be truly known to the rest of the people of the galactic society.​

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Effekt had often been one of the lesser known planets within the Outer Rim. This was due to the Effektians being a very solitary people for so long. The most contact they’d ever kept with any of the other species was trading their valuables for new technology or weapons. Some had almost thought it was a myth or just a false front for some criminal organizations workings in the Outer Rim. But after a message had been sent to some of the higher heads of the galaxies factions it became clear Effekt and its people were real.​

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When this announcement was made it was mainly by the consensus of the Empress herself. The heads of the royal houses that ruled the individual kingdoms of the worldwide empire had made their votes, but a fair majority had been against it. They feared anymore tampering from the outside worlds would cause more harm than good for the people. The Empress, however, dismissed the idea and blamed it on them only being scared of the change her and her late husband, the Emperor Victor Stormson, had planned. But she had made it clear Effekt would no longer be an unknown entity in the galaxy. It was time for them to step into the light and be known.​

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So for the remainder of the time the city had been prepared for the arrival of the outside leaders and representatives to arrive. Large banners bearing the symbol of the Empire, a six-legged horse, were hung from every window and street. Large meals were prepared ahead of time to be refrigerated and thawed for later, just so the cooks would be able to make more during the ball itself. And even a large carper had been made ready from the landing platform all the way to the front doors of the royal palace. The platform itself was only a mile away, yet personal speeders and/or carriages were made ready to personally escort the guests to the doors with armed guards to keep them safe if need be.​

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The entire time the Empress was anxious to meet and see so many of the leaders. To meet people with authority such as hers, perhaps some who were higher, it was all so grand. The night before she was up for hours looking up to the clear night sky as the two moons were clear as could be.​

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Looking to a pictures of her late husband Victor she’d sighed and said “It’s just as we dreamed, my love. I only wish you were here to see it…both of you…” she looked down, touching her stomach that once carried her child-to-be.​

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**********​

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Today had finally arrived. The city was a buzz to welcome the guests from across the galaxy to the great event.​

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When they would land they would be met by a personal guard who would escort them to their speeder or carriage in-waiting, which would then take them through the streets were the citizens of the city cheered while throwing flower petals down from above at them, welcoming all of them to their planet.​

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Upon arriving at the large broad open doors into the palace the guests would be escorted inside by a personal attended, free to ask them any questions, before bringing them through the archway into the courtyard. There they would see a number of statues standing fifty feet tall, all polished and looking new. They were each representations of all the former Emperors of the Stormborn Empire, starting with Archibald Stormson.​

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Once at the actual doors into the palace they would enter the main hall where the ball itself was being held. A large dark green carpet went from the door all the way to the throne where, oddly, the empress had not arrived yet. Her large, golden throne was unoccupied currently. If anyone asked they would tell how the empress would arrive in time, wanting to allow her guests time to mingle before speaking with her. However the other noble heads of the kingdoms were awaiting near the throne to speak with anyone.​

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Tables of food were spread out with all manner of meals from meats to fruits to deserts and back. The most handsome of men and beautiful of servant girls acted as servers, carrying trays over to the guests and asking if they wished for anything. All the while the band was playing in the area that would soon be the dancing area for later on. Everything was extravagant for this event. This was Empress Nimue’s way of showing appreciation after all, and as she would say, why not give it your all?​

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Only one rule was made clear: Step out of line or cause any distruption, and not only are you taken away from the party but you're to leave the planet as well.​

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[member="Darth Arcanix"] [member="Thalia Rist"] [member="Joshua DragonsFlame"] [member="Cryax Bane"] [member="Slate Estrada"] [member="Alask Diruno"] [member="Alessandra Lacer"] [member="Jack Rand"] [member="Feena Mason"] [member="Gherron Vael"] [member="Armand Temi"] [member="Tyson"] [member="Darth Vornskr"]

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[Tyson]

This Chef had been scouting out the tables to see if the fire underneath each of the meals had been going out. For every meal that had a dim and unlit torch was ignited by this Rufer's pyrokinesis. He was asked to make sure the food was good and everything was in order in terms of the food. He wore a chefs uniform with a name tag but, he didn't the hat. He never liked the hat because it would tend to get in the way of his ears. There had been a lot of tables prepared so he had to check everything. It had to be flawless.

Ty had looked as some of the guests began to pour in. He would say hi if he didn't have something important to do. Not very long before he began to expect the tables, he had showed some of the top chefs how to make the food properly. Some hated having him in the kitchen but, he spoke truth and most liked him. In any case he kept to what he was doing. He could talk but he couldn't lose focus on what he was doing

@Darth Arcanix | @Thalia Rist | @Joshua DragonsFlame | @Cryax Bane | @Slate Estrada | @Alask Diruno | @Alessandra Lacer | @Jack Rand | @Feena Mason | @Gherron Vael | @Armand Temi | @Darth Vornskr

 

[Gherron Dragovalor]

Gherron had to admit, he was rather surprised when he got the invitation. He wasn't really anyone of extreme importance, just another Jedi among thousands of others. Then there was the fact that it seed to be from a planet that was just revealing itself to the galaxy. New planets were discovered all the time, but this was different. He'd never yet seen it where the said planet hosted a ball in celebration of it. Usually, it was simply by exploration that new planets and systems were found. However, he was anxious to visit this planet. Effekt, it was called. Since this was a special occasion, he decided to wear his best ceremonial Jedi robes, which really said volumes, because he never wore those. Not long after landing on the surface, the Jedi was greeted by a richly-dressed man who escorted him to a speeder, where he was soon on his way through the city streets. His eyes widened at the welcome he recovered, though with everything else he'd seen so far, he should've expected it. Brushing off flower pedals every now and then, he looked around, enjoying the sight of the city's expanse. When he eventually did make it to the palace, he thanked the escort and walked in, where his jaw immediately dropped. "Now this I could get used to..."

[member="Darth Arcanix"] [member="Thalia Rist"] [member="Cryax Bane"] [member="Slate Estrada"] [member="Joshua DragonsFlame"] [member="Alask Diruno"] [member="Alessandra Lacer"] [member="Jack Rand"] [member="Feena Mason"] [member="Armand Temi"] [member="Darth Vornskr"] [member="Tyson"]

 

[Armand Temi]

Between his Jedi Training and the constant talk of war between the Sith and The Republic which hung like a pall over the Galactic Core, it was refreshing to witness such a generous display for foreign guests from Empress Stormson. The type of pomp and circumstance that greeted Armand when he landed in Halaban brought him back to his childhood when he would attend the many Hapan parades and festivities, hoping to catch a glimpse of the Queen. From the rose petals, which stuck in his hair, to the statues, to the alluring attendants catering to any whim of the nobility, it appeared the Empress spared no expense putting this stately ball together. Although he had been at these types of events in the presence of [member="Feena Mason"], he recognized no other guests in the guestbook nor in the hall. But Armand was determined to make an exciting night of it and was feeling quite mischievous.

[member="Darth Arcanix"] [member="Thalia Rist"] [member="Cryax Bane"] [member="Slate Estrada"] [member="Joshua DragonsFlame"] [member="Alask Diruno"] [member="Alessandra Lacer"] [member="Jack Rand"] [member="Feena Mason"] [member="Darth Vornskr"] @Tyson

 

[Slate Estrada]

Much like many others, Slate didn't quite understand why he was invited to a royal ball on Effekt. Not only had Slate never heard of the planet, but it was almost completely unknown throughout the Galaxy as well. However, the fly to the planet allowed him time to think about this topic. He doubted he was invited because of his long military career, it was more likely he was invited because of his company. Maybe Effekt required weapon systems to defend their planet against unwanted guests and therefore Slate was there for business. Either way, he was happy to attend.

Eventually, his ship was given clearance to land and Slate got his first view of the planet. It was truly spectacular that Slate would be one of the first outside people to set foot onto this planet. As his ship neared the surface, he saw the city where the ball would be held. It wasn't a surprise that he was met by a security guard as he exited the shuttle but he did feel it was rather unnecessary. "Mister Estrada, right this way sir." After a short and pleasant ride to the location, Slate found himself outside the large gawping doors of the palace. Eventhough Slate preferred the more modern, sharper building he had to admit it was impressive.

As he walked inside, he was pleasantly surprised to see that the room was almost already full and socialising would be easy. He just had to find someone to talk to.



[member="Darth Arcanix"] [member="Thalia Rist"] [member="Joshua DragonsFlame"] [member="Cryax Bane"] [member="Alask Diruno"] [member="Alessandra Lacer"] [member="Jack Rand"] [member="Feena Mason"] [member="Gherron Vael"] [member="Armand Temi"] [member="Tyson"] [member="Darth Vornskr"]

 

[Taeli Raaf]

[member="Thalia Rist"] [member="Joshua DragonsFlame"] [member="Cryax Bane"] [member="Alask Diruno"] [member="Alessandra Lacer"] [member="Jack Rand"] [member="Feena Mason"] [member="Gherron Vael"] [member="Armand Temi"] [member="Nimue Stormson"] [member="Tyson"] [member="Darth Vornskr"]

Taeli had been surprised when she had seen an invitation from an Empress Stormson from a remote planet called Effekt. She had never heard of the planetary system before, but her curiosity had been sufficiently piqued and it would only be proper manners to attend. She did cringe a bit at the thought she would probably be in the company of Jedi so it might be best to dampen her Force presence while there to make sure she didn't get any glares or such from the attending Light siders.

Reading up as much as she could from the limited resources on the planet during her shuttle trip, she was even more intrigued by the planet and could sense an opportunity here for company expansion. As her shuttle settled onto the planet, she suppressed herself in the Force and made her way towards the Empress's palace once she left the ship. The architecture of the entire city was indeed an aesthetic she could enjoy, very nice indeed.

Entering the palace and seeing the assembled crowd and finery, she couldn't help the smile on her face even as she walked forward in the her dark green and silver dress.

 

[Alexander Sannes]

Alexander slowly moved of his own ship to the remote planet, his eyes running over the buildings with his hands securing his cloak around his formal suit. Like always much of what he wore was black, his eyes staring at the city and smiling as he looked at the closest man before speaking to him. "Hey, can you point me towards the palace, i was invited..." The dock worker nodded and led him out to where someone would be waiting for him, bringing him to the palace as he sat alone in it.

He wasn't sure what to expect, it was surprising how one so new to the galactic scene was able to be so advanced but now his mind focused in on the name of his host, looking down at the datapad. "Empress Stormson.... a different name for sure..." He said to himself and looked out towards the Palace and looking towards the future. Soon thought he would know as he got out with his cloak still wrapped around him and his eyes gleaming for a moment as he moved through the door. "Lets see what these people look like..."

 

[Nimue Stormson]

As the guests were welcome in the noble heads who awaited them near the Empress’ throne began to wonder what was keeping her. They were looking back between the empty throne and the slowly but surely arriving number of guests. They muttered among themselves, none having the answer.​

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Eventually one of them, Lord Bulmy, stopped one of the servants and ordered her to go see where Empress Nimue was and why she was late. After that he looked among his fellow nobles and suggested speaking with the guests would help keep them occupied and hopefully distracted long enough while they waited.​

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Lord Bulmy himself was among the older heads of the noble families, he hailing from the kingdom of Dulock. Being the oldest he’d acted as something of a self-appointed leader among the other heads, taking charge with their actions. Then there was Lord Woolson, from Qutenar. Unlike the other house nobles he was the skinniest as well as having no facial hair, not even on his head. He seemed the type to make friends wherever possible if it meant furthering his own ends. Then there was Lord Bulkus of Freizer, the more gruff but honorable type of lord. He did not speak as much as the others, often giving little bows of the head or short, low comments. And finally was Lord Tezarus from the kingdom of Greedar. He seemed the more hearty type, eager to meet people and show himself off in front of them if need be.​

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“Greetings to you all.” Bulmy greeted as he and the others bowed before the guests. “We are the Noble Heads of the individual kingdoms that make up the Stormborn Empire you’ve have the honor to be invited to. I believe I speak for my fellow lords and our Empress Stormson we I say it is a much of an honor for us to have you as it is to greet you on behalf of all the people of Effekt.”​

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“If you have anything that you feel needs urgency to discuss, do not hesitate to contact one of us for assistance.” Lord Woolson added with a friendly enough tone.​

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Then Lord Tezarus had added as well, saying “And in the meantime enjoy the festivities. That’s the whole point of a party, isn’t it? I recommend the roasted steak with a nice side of ale or two. And after the Empress has arrived I’ll make sure she opens the dance floor sooner than later.” He ended with a chuckle in his throat.​

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And finally Lord Bulkus had given the blunt statement of “Her majesty will be along soon.”​

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From left to right/top to bottom: Lord Bulmy, Lord Bulkus, Lord Tezarus, and Lord Woolson​

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[member="Alexander Sannes"] [member="Darth Arcanix"] [member="Slate Estrada"] [member="Armand Temi"] [member="Gherron Vael"] [member="Tyson"] [member="Cryax Bane"] [member="Alask Diruno"] [member="Alessandra Lacer"] [member="Darth Vornskr"] [member="Feena Mason"] [member="Joshua DragonsFlame"]

 

[Alessandra Lacer]

Alessandra never dreamed that she would be invited to a fancy ball like the one she was attending today with [member="Alask Diruno"]. The work she did wasn't the kind that would get her to such events and the young woman was fine with that. This would be a good opportunity to explore her feelings for Alask more as well.

Since having never been to such an event Aless wasn't sure what to wear. It took her hours to find the perfect dress which for her was odd as she never cared that much for clothing anyway. Eventually she found what she believed to be the perfect dress for such an occasion.

Sighing she leaned against the wall as she waited for her date to hopefully arrive. If he didn't it would be rather embarrassing. He would be here, she had faith.

 

[Alask Diruno]

[member="Alessandra Lacer"]

A ball was the last thing you would see Alask at but it was an official date. With Miss Alessandra Lacer. He had to wear something special so he wore this. As he walked into the palace being escorted, he walked off to the side to greet Alessandra. He would walk up slowly and smile once he got closer. "Hello there beautiful."

 

[Josh Dragovalor]

[member="Tyson"] | @Darth Arcanix | @Thalia Rist | | @Cryax Bane | @Slate Estrada | @Alask Diruno | @Alessandra Lacer | @Jack Rand | @Feena Mason | @Gherron Vael | @Armand Temi | @Darth Vornskr

A party? It had been an incredibly long time since Joshua DragonsFlame, Former Grandmaster Of The Jedi Order; had been to any sort of social occasion. He had been in hiding for an incredibly long time, until recently when he would resurface as a member of the Ession Reformation, in it's "New Jedi Order". Once again, Josh DragonsFlame was a Jedi Master, with a new lease on life, and a new goal...

But for now, this was a time to mingle and talk. The Jedi Master would walk in after being chaperoned here via speeder, wearing a black suit, with a white dress shirt under it. Under the black pants though, were black steel-toed boots. If anyone were to ask him, he'd tell you that dress shoes made him incredibly uncomfortable. He wasn't wearing a hood, or even robes for that matter; exposing the long blonde hair, brimming brown eyes and the muscular frame of the Jedi Master who looked around this rather unique party, to celebrate the coming out party of the-Well, wait, maybe we should rephrase that. To celebrate the... Awareness of a race. Better? Good.

 

[Alessandra Lacer]

"Don't you look dashing." She smiled at him as Alask came into view. The young woman cared about him more than what she had shared with him. This first date was important to her and she wanted it to go right and as such she was a little nerve wrecking.

"Want to go get a drink and look around? Later I'm going to get a dance out of you." She brightly smiled as she took his hand and started walking towards the bar.

[member="Alask Diruno"]

 

[Armand Temi]

Even though the gathering was not quite a full house yet, Armand began to circulate. He stopped short when the Lords of Effekt came out and made some statements. They all seemed genuinely pleased to be there but as the Hapan noble knew well any monarchy was bound to have its share of deception. He imagined it wouldn't be on display tonight but part of him hoped it would as courtly drama was as intriguing as any play in the Coruscant Theatre District.

Looking around the room he recognized [member="Gherron Vael"] and [member="Joshua DragonsFlame"] from his business with the Ession Reformation. He approached Dragonsflame and asked, "How go the war preparations, friend?"

[member="Gherron Vael"]
[member="Joshua DragonsFlame"]
[member="Nimue Stormson"]

 

[Alask Diruno]

[member="Alessandra Lacer"]

"Why thank you my lady." he commented smiling back. Before he knew it, he was being moved. "I'm up for anything but what's the hurry?" he asked out of curiosity. As he walked with her, he added, "Wonder what flavours of wine they have."

 

[Tyson]

Almost in response to what the man had said a Rufer had come over to them wearing what looked like a chef uniform without a hat. "Well sir we have..." He began to think "White wine, red wine, some wines shipped in from Coruscant and, well tasting wines from this fancy planet ordered by the queen herself." He stood with a smile on his face "If you'd like you can sample all of them."

He then looked towards he lady "You may also try yourself if you are in the mood." He chuckled but remembered "Oh, I almost forgot to say. You both look great tonight and, I hope you have a good time."

[member="Alask Diruno"]
[member="Alessandra Lacer"]

 

[Nimue Stormson]

As the guests continued to enter and move about the palace the nobles were growing restless. It was clear on all their faces, though with Lord Bulkus it was hard to say. Thankfully by then the servant girl they’d sent to find Empress Nimue had returned.​

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“Well?” Lord Bulmy almost demanded. “Where is she?”​

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“The Empress was getting ready, my Lord.” She hastily answered.​

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“Ready?” Lord Woolson asked, almost offended. “How long would it take her to dress?”​

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“It-It wasn’t about getting dressed, sir. She was…well….it’s um…”​

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Two large horns suddenly sounded throughout the hall. They were loud enough to gain everyone’s attention, which was the point. The band had finished at this point and the room had been silent for at least five minutes. When the horns sounded all the servants turned towards the front doors, which had now been closed by the time all the guests had arrived and were filling the halls. If there were any stragglers they’d be brought in through side entrances. But for now the front doors were needed.​

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One of the more well-dressed servants had stood by the door before declaring “Announcing the arrival of her ladyship, Empress Nimue of House Stormson. Sovereign of the Stormborn Empire and ruler of the world.” ​

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After that the servant took a step aside from the door where he stood before the broad doors began to open. As they did the band began to play again, this time commencing a royal procession ballad that sounded the grand arrival of the Empress.​

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p8Rgxy7SS64​

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When the doors fully opened the noble heads had been a little surprised by what they saw. The Empress was indeed entering, only not on her own. She was mounted onto a fully grown Selipin, a six-legged horse that was a native creature to the planet Effekt. The large black steed was being led by a strong manservant who held its reins as while leading it down the carpet in the center of the hall, its powerful hooves clopping against the stone floor underneath.​

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Empress Nimue herself had been dressed in her finest robes. She wore emerald scaled dress that flowed down to cover all the way to her ankles, ye the slips on the side had exposed her slender legs and the matching heeled boots she had on her feet. A furred cape hung from her shoulders and covering her back. Upon her head she wore a crown that bore two large golden horns, curved and pointed like those on a ram; although more like a demons. Her long, black raven hair hung down her back, some of the strands in front of her shoulder, with small golden hair decorations littered about. Her nails were long and black on her fingers, especially those that held a long, pointed scepter in her right hand while the other held the straps to stay on her six-legged steed. And finally there was her face, her black lips that were curved to a smile while her dark green eyes looked about to the assembled guests. They trailed about, looking from one face to the other with a very bemused tone.​

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Eventually they looked to her waiting throne, the noble heads moving to the side to be at her right in a line. Once they were closed enough the manservant stopped the Selpin before helping his empress off. Once her feet were on solid ground the manservant bowed deeply, Empress Nimue giving a small nod, before taking the Selpin and pulling it away. The music still continued as she walked up to her throne before finally turning back to the hall, everyone going silent.​

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“By the grace anointed to me by the powers beyond the stars, I welcome all of you.” She addressed her guests with a grandiose tone. “You’ve all come from very far across this vast galaxy that we have finally accepted onto our world. We thank and honor you with this visit.” She then guested to one of the servant girls nearby who hurried over and handed Nimue a cup filled with wine into her free hand. Holding the glass high she said “Here is to the new friendships that may come from this day. May the gods see fit to grant Effekt and its people great wealth and joy after today. And may our honored friends see fit to continue to grace us with their presence in the future.” Holding it higher she declared “To Friendship!”​

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It was followed by a loud collective “To Friendship!” from every one of the locals in the main hall.​

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With that Nimue, and those who had drinks, sipped down their toasts before she declared “Let us celebrate so that the gods and the people halfway across the galaxy can hear!” A collective cheer rang out from everyone before she walked back to her throne and said “And now, my honored guests, if you’ll please line up so that I may greet each of you personally.”​

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She gestured to the spot ahead where two guards walked to, indicating where the line would start. After that she took her seat at her throne, leaning back and looking so immersed in her powerful position. The band began to play again and Nimue looked over to the nobles, winking at them before turning her attention back to her guests.​

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Their reactions were mixed. Lord Bulmy and Woolson looked a little annoyed by the Empress’ actions; obviously not expecting her to make a sight of herself by riding in on a Selpin. Lord Tezarus, however, chuckled in his throat at the act, thinking it how much the Empress wanted to show herself off before her guests. Lord Bulkus only kept the same gruff look he always did, almost like it was permanently grafted to his face. ​

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AwaeAp8Mnfk​

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[member="Tyson"] [member="Alask Diruno"] [member="Alessandra Lacer"] [member="Armand Temi"] [member="Joshua DragonsFlame"] [member="Alexander Sannes"] [member="Darth Arcanix"] [member="Slate Estrada"] [member="Gherron Vael"] [member="Feena Mason"] [member="Darth Vornskr"] [member="Jack Rand"] [member="Cryax Bane"]​

 

[Josh Dragovalor]

Josh would smile toward [member="Armand Temi"], a look of recognition, and would nod. "A pleasure to see you, my friend" He would greet. To his question, he would chuckle. "Good, good... But this is not a day of war. This is a day of celebration. Of friendship" He said. "Speaking of..." He began as he would hear the trumpets, watch the proceedings...

[member="Nimue Stormson"] had arrived. Listening to her speech, the Jedi Master would smirk a bit when she would ask to meet each of them personally. "I will be back with you in a bit, Armand... Gherron" He said, finally acknowledging his former Padawan graduate. He would speak to them both in a bit. For now... He would take his spot in line.

 

[Taeli Raaf]

Taeli had kept a low profile since entering the large hall, but she had to admit that [member="Nimue Stormson"]'s entrance was everything needed to try and impress her off-world visitors. She could tell this Empress had been preparing this for a long time, but the disgruntled looks by some of her top nobles alerted her to a possible strain within their society.

'Interesting,' she thought, moving into a spot on the line, making sure not to be anywhere close to a Jedi, but making it appear to be simple coincidence. She knew how to play this game, and perhaps she could gain an ally from this woman. She seemed to understand joining the galaxy would help more than hinder her world. A discussion might be called for later with her.

 

[Nej Tane]

Nej found it interesting that they'd taken his gun. And his knife. And his other gun. And his backup knife. But not his comb- deadly thing it was. It was known to be a lady killer.


Schwang.


Nej made his way further into the ballroom, his rolled up sleeves and khakhi pants, while nicely fitting- did not mix well with the Jedi robings and ne'er-do-wells of the galaxy. But then again, who was he to talk? He was a thief, a liar, a shock boxer, a vagabond, and a tomb robber.


So naturally, he fit right in.


His eyes danced on [member="Darth Arcanix"]. Gray skin. Black hair. Yellow-ish eyes. Not his type- but his body, for sure. So, he slid in like the slithery snake he was, and picked up a glass of champagne from a passing waiter.


"Name's Nej."

 

[Alask Diruno]

[member="Alessandra Lacer"] [member="Tyson"] [member="Nimue Stormson"]

"They all sound so good. I'll take some red wine." he politely said smiling. Being very well behaved and mannered probably was what he should work on. He was about to say something else when horns blasted noise and doors opened. He was shocked by such an entrance.