The Tree of Life (RR and Lightside/Neutral Factions)

[Tha'ga Temi]

The Hapan Heritage Council was taking its sweet time to congeal, but Tha’ga was the sister who’d inherited her father’s seemingly endless patience. Her mother’s hot temper - that was all Tmoxin, but for the girl who’d spent her entire life practically serving the monarchy, she knew bureaucracy moved slowly - as steady as the Nova-Class Battle Cruiser on which Tha’ga had arrived.

While the majestic vessel could defend the politician, she’d convinced the court to let her bring one as a show of singular military might that the Hapan Navy still possessed. Indeed it was a signifier - the Consortium is strong and can defend itself.

The young redhead, attending the Gala for The Galaxy Tree, a quite impressive space station in the Republic Remnant sector wandered in just as the festivities were getting started. If anything she appreciated the station's self-sufficient quality, quite fitting for the lobbying she had in mind as she gathered among the crowd just in time to catch Mr. Gantar’s speech.

She wore a non-traditional gown for a Hapan woman with a whimsical pineapple on the left shoulder and feathers at the waist. Just because she believed in isolationism for Hapes didn’t mean she had to dress like a dowdy old matriarch from the days of Ta'a Chume.

“Bravo,” she said quietly and more to herself than anyone as she applauded the introduction to the gala by the station’s Republican judicator. Happy and carefree for the first time since the tumultuous events on Hapes not too long ago, Tha’ga was ready to put that chapter behind her and usher in a new era for the Consortium. Just because the Council favored conventionalism it did not mean they did not need to make unconventional friendships across the galaxy.

[member="Ignis Imura"] [member="Gir Quee"] [member="Jaster of Clan Awaud"] [member="Rozalyne Kurganova"] [member="Allyson Locke"] [member="Charlie"] [member="Zora Djo"] [member="Junko Ike"] [member="Toreka"] [member="Theodosius Organa"] [member="Tanaski Yumi"] [member="Josh DragonsFlame"] [member="Asaraa Vaashe"] [member="Harley Fenstermacher"] [member="Faith Organa"] [member="Marina DeVoe"] [member="Lilla Syrin"] [member="Noatyr Moldmerr"] [member="Transil Gantar"]

 

[Helly Reyne]

She could feel her cruiser touch down and a member of her crew calling for her that they were ready to unload.

A human girl with a headset on awaited her outside of her room, her wavy blonde hair doing nothing to incite an aura of fun or free-spirited.

"You're already running late, so I've gone ahead and moved your meeting with your dealers to next week since you won't have time to meet with Trayt tonight. Have you changed your mind on how long you'll stay at the gala?"

Helly continued walking down the ship's corridor towards the locked doors, only hearing half of what her assistant was saying. "Just put me down for the rest of the day," she said. "And Renni, have some drinks while you're here, alright? You need it more than I do." She stood and pondered on that for a moment as the hatch opened up and a walkway emerged from underneath it. "Y'know what, I still think I need it more."

"Yes, ma'am," she replied as they both entered into the lavish scenery where figureheads, politicians, and several Jedi were already mingling.

Everywhere she looked, she saw either traditional robes, elaborate dresses, or suits and other formal attire. She might have come off as a street rat in the outfit she had chosen to wear, but how would she stand out if adhered to everyone else's dress code?

"They didn't ask me to sing at this thing, right?" she asked Renni, who quickly looked at a tablet and searched frantically.

"Not that I know of, ma'am. Do you want me to ask them?"

Helly raised a hand for her to calm down. "I never said I wanted to sing tonight."

"Do you?"

She shrugged off the question, simply answering, "I'm just here for the booze." As she casually meandered her way towards the open bar, she passed by a politician in a peculiar getup. "Love the outfit!" she said to [member="Tha'ga Temi"] in passing.

---

[member="Transil Gantar"] | [member="Asaraa Vaashe"] | [member="Rozalyne Kurganova"] | [member="Theodosius Organa"] | [member="Ignis Imura"]

 

[Marina DeVoe]

"No...just me." She replied to the usher, as he checked her name.

It were an open invite, to any and all representatives and executives, but there was till a VIP list that had been forwarded. It had something to do with providing adequate security for representatives, although it were kept under low key.

"So.... has Queen [member="Faith Organa"] and other dignitaries from Alderaan arrived yet?" She asked, slightly jutting her neck to look at the list.

"Ahem..." the usher pulled the holo pad closer and out of her view. "...yes, your party from Alderaan had indeed arrived.

"Awesome..." Marina beamed a smile, happy to hear that her queen was here already.
Then, it suddenly occurred to her that there were more.
Sure, maybe Becka... but she would be more under aid, not party...right?

"..er...did you say Queen Organa and party?" She then inquired.

"Yes, Miss DeVoe, The Alderaani list of representatives including your person which were forwarded by your administration, Miss DeVoe....most have already arrived." he gave her a look that she should know this.

"Hehe..." she went and lightly gave the usher a teasing push ." ...stop....come on seriously, Queen Organa and who else?...."

"Mam?"

"The names. Who's here besides me, the queen and her aid?"

"Sigh... " he flipped the holo projection over for her to read. "...you're going to hold up my line till I show you, huh?" he then said, eyeing the other guests that were now stacking up behind her.

"Hmm..." She sped read through the list.
"Awesome...
Ok, well than you very very much." Marina beamed him a very gracious thank you smile.
It were one of relief, nearly having her skip in her steps as she entered the great hall...
Yes, she was certainly going to have a good time now, knowing who was here from the courts...and not. Especially the not.

Marina entered the Gala taking a moment to absorb it all.

One wouldn't think they were inside a space station at all.
After walking about taking in the place and the people she passed, Marina looked about for her queen. She didn't know a fraction of who was who, as Marina was relatively still new as an intern to Queen Organa.

 

[Jaster Awaud]

Walking through the entrance way of the party, Jaster waved off the Imperial Knights that had accompanies him as he knew they would not relinquish their weapons. The Lightsaber was the tool that never left their body even onto death. He liked that about the Knights, they did not serve the Force or make the Force serve them, they just allied with the force in whatever form as a means to execute the orders of the Emperor as well as to defend him. However, that made them poor for diplomatic escorts as many nations required weapons to be handed over from possible dangerous Force Users with the nation calling itself an 'Empire'.

Leaving the two by the door under the eye and guard of the stations security staff, the two Knights knew better then to cause problems as they would answer to Jaster.

He joined the rest of the groupings as the station director begun to welcome them to the station. After such a welcome was finished he clapped with the rest of the group, the host was rather generous with who was here. Though he knew the Economic Situation of the Republic was on the rise, many of the resource rich planet of the Hutt Region was now under their control and alliances with Core World Industries helped. It was also due to Republic Businesses like that of [member="Harley Fenstermacher"] and her company that their government was on the rise. It was also the main reason he was here.

Walking up to Senator Fenstermacher, he bowed his head, and began to open a conversation with the women, "A wonderful party your government has thrown Senator Fenstermacher," realizing its been a while since they had talked, "It is still Senator right?"

[member="Ignis Imura"] [member="Gir Quee"] [member="Rozalyne Kurganova"] [member="Allyson Locke"] [member="Charlie"] [member="Zora Djo"] [member="Junko Ike"] [member="Toreka"] [member="Theodosius Organa"] [member="Tanaski Yumi"] [member="Josh DragonsFlame"] [member="Asaraa Vaashe"] [member="Faith Organa"] [member="Marina DeVoe"] [member="Lilla Syrin"] [member="Noatyr Moldmerr"] [member="Transil Gantar"][member="Tha'ga Temi"] [member="Helly Reyne"] [member="Marina DeVoe"]

 

[Faith Organa]

Through the halls of the station she walked slowly taking her time to look out and see the vastness of the space around them. How many stations had she walked upon in her lifetime, how many were now abandoned. This station however teemed of life and it would seem was offering a new hope to those who would seek it out.

Had anyone from the old Republic joined to this new Remnant? Would she see familiar faces or would they all be a blurr of young fresh faces like Marina's. Faces full of hope and ideas for a different kind of future. Faith did not know.

As she entered the main room she heard a voice welcoming everyone. It was nice to be among diplomats, representatives, and members of governments who saw the galaxy almost the same as she.

[member="Transil Gantar"] |[member="Noatyr Moldmerr"] | [member="Lilla Syrin"] |[member="Harley Fenstermacher"] |[member="Marina DeVoe"] | [member="Asaraa Vaashe"] |[member="Rozalyne Kurganova"] |[member="Josh DragonsFlame"] |[member="Jaster of Clan Awaud"] |[member="Ignis Imura"] | [member="Theodosius Organa"] | @anyone I missed

 

[Valae Heavenshield]

Passing several faces that were slowly growing more familiar, Zora moved on her way to join the gathering. She figured that it would probably be a good idea to at least make an appearance, not that anyone would really know who she was. Unlike some of the guests, she was nobody – not that the quiet archivist really minded. In fact, she was just the sort that would rather be a wallflower.

That’s what she had in mind as she entered, just in time to catch the end of [member="Transil Gantar"]’s welcome speech. Standing near the refreshments, she offered a small clap along with the rest of the crowd.

After reaching up to adjust her glasses, she spotted [member="Tha'ga Temi"] and [member="Helly Reyne"]. Her dark eyes lingered upon the two for a moment – popular girls, she mused. There was certainly nothing wrong with being a popular person, but Zora never found herself in that crowd. She just didn’t fit in. Now, if there was a group of pencil pushers, accountants, or fellow librarians… that would be quite the party.

Zora quickly surveyed the array of appetizers on display, and lifted a delicate looking canapé from a tray.

Munching contentedly, she moved on to the bar. Squinting at the multitude of bottles, she shrugged slightly when the barman looked her way. Zora adored tea, and she could be caught with a cup of caf in the mornings… but alcohol?

“Um… what kind of pink wines do you have?” She asked, setting her fingertips on the counter.

The man rolled his eyes, but soon produced a tall flute of a sparkly liquid that fit the bill.

 

[Noatyr Moldmerr]

Causally snatching a glass of something off a tray and moving to lean against a wall, Noatyr sighed contentedly, and took a sip of the drink. Tasted like brandy of some sort. He watched the excitement around him, and the chaos that had begun to unfold. After all, with any kind of party, there was always the strange ones who stuck out.

He figured he might have been one of them, but he was fine with that. Being alone for at least a moment gave him more time to think.

The Z-10 Seeker had landed in the docking bay smoothly enough, but he still felt like his piloting skills were lacking a bit, he figured he'd have to get more practice in at some point. His aim however, had gotten far better. That witch had worked a wonder on his rifle, and he was certainly glad he had agreed to let her alchemize it. That had been a good day for him.

As his eyes flicked over the many residents and visitors of the station, his boot somehow slipped out from under him, and he pitched backwards into the wall, resounding in a small bang as his head hit the wall.

​''Ow...''​ He muttered, more in annoyance then pain, as his body slid to a halt, half propped up against the wall.

[member="Zora Djo"] [member="Faith Organa"] [member="Jaster of Clan Awaud"] [member="Marina DeVoe"] [member="Tha'ga Temi"] [member="Helly Reyne"] [member="Transil Gantar"] [member="Lilla Syrin"] [member="Asaraa Vaashe"] [member="Josh DragonsFlame"] [member="Harley"] Fenstermacher [member="Ignis Imura"] [member="Theodosius Organa"] [member="Toreka"] [member="Charlie"] [member="Junko Ike"] [member="Tanaski Yumi"] [member="Allyson Locke"] [member="Rozalyne Kurganova"]

 

[Ignatius]

The man looked over me quickly and stated that he couldn't accept the gifts. I smiled and nodded my head at his explanation. Sure, it was a sound reason, or hell, even if he stated he wasn't a smoker I wouldn't be upset. It was simply a gift if he wished to accept it. Tucking the box underneath the crimson wrapping at my belt, it would stay there and only slightly hang from the material due to the belt holding the cloak around me. Yet in all one breath, the man also told me to wait a moment so that he could start the Gala. A simple nod was all that was needed. Shortly after I had arrived, Many more seemed to fill the hangar. However, I could only assume that we would all be walking back towards a main hub area.

I listened to the man's speak. Free drinks and food. While I was not hungry, and I would forgo on the stronger drinks at the moment, I had my reasons. I was attempting to cut back on my smoking, and drinking. The various lessons and teachings I have had, were about keeping the body as clean and in top shape at all times. As you never know when you may have to use your body for more strenuous reasons. I had to agree. However, smoking wasn't as bad as it may be, simply due to keeping so much of my body under control otherwise, One, and that only one thing, wouldn't hurt or hinder me all that much.

After the quick introduction, The man returned once more too me. Query of my representation of the Je'daii Order. Slanting my head forward, just a tad to indicate that the words were correct, I smiled small.

"Yes. The Je'daii Order was once the only organized group of adepts during the time of the Rataka Empire. However, their fallout led to what today, is the Jedi, and the Sith. A very long story, for a later date."

Straightening myself to stand up ever so slightly, I was a little prideful at the moment with my new title bestowed upon me, I decided to go into why we were here mostly. As well as what we were hoping for.

"As earlier, I am a Ranger with the Order, and have been given permission to come here on the Order's behalf. While we generally keep to ourselves, we have found that the raging war in the stars, we want to keep our own space. To make that happen, sometimes the hidden need to show their faces."

However, it was then that another individual walked up. A man who seemed to be much older with the way he carried himself, even speaking to The senator, only to ask him if he still held that rank. Implying that they had met beforehand. I stayed silent as the two would talk. No reason to interrupt this when there were so many people here. I knew everyone would likely get a chance to talk to one another at some point. Not sure when, but it just might happen.

[member="Transil Gantar"], @Jaster of the Awaud Clan,

 

[A'Runda]

Popping out of hyperspace A'Runda felt shaken. He never really liked space travel, it still being something he was getting used to. But he's always scared that something will go horribly wrong one day in hyperspace. Nonetheless here he was, at the space station. He needed to stop by here to gather up on consumables and fix his junk ship.

Carefully he made his way in and landed the craft in the docking bay. Its engines rattling, turning off the ship with a PUTT PUTT. He really needed to get another ship. He can see why 'uglys' are so cheap. Before getting out one of the landing gears felt like they malfunctioned. Getting out of his Z-'ceptor the Tusken looked over it, and saw the bent gear. "Trrru'uunqa!" (An interjection of frustration) He said before kicking it. After that it rattled and completely collapsed. Making the craft even more lopsided. Clearly A'Runda wasn't having a very good day.

Another moment went by when he looked up and saw a large sign at the exit of the docking bay that read of a gala. "Ga-la?" the Tusken repeated to himself, never hearing that word or what it really meant. He figured it must've been some sort of gathering. But there was no time for such things at the moment for him, he needed to get his ship operational. He didn't think that he could pay for someone to help. Which meant he was gonna need to do it by hand.

[member="Marina DeVoe"]

 

[Narcissa Tallhart]

Dress: https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/304735314214125581/438355492100898824/image.jpg

Narcissa has arrived with Jyoti and other members of the SJO, she had made little to no comment when she arrived, not one to speak when not spoken to. The Knight moving her way through the crowds close to Charlie. While the young Padawan was looking for people her own age, Narcissa was looking for other Echani, Nobles or otherwise. She didn’t not fit in well with people of other races and cultures. It was hard for her to really approach and talk to people of her own volition, she was staying close to known company for now.

Having not eaten in a small while, the Echani would cast her eyes around the place, not really finding anything that seemed appealing. She turned to the smaller Charlie as asked her quickly. “Did you bring any good food or know where I might acquire some?” - the smaller woman had treated her to a rather delicious slice of pie once before, it seemed she knew her food.

 

[Harley Fenstermacher]

Harley would have returned the bow but [member="Jaster of Clan Awaud"] had decided to start the conversation before, no problem best to get talking after all there were many more people to get around to. That new Echani person looked interesting([member="Narcissa Tallhart"]), seemed the Silver Jedi where getting a lot of them lately, is that where they got the name from? seemed rather appropriate, but for the moment Jaster was the focus of the conversion. "Yes it is rather an interesting event, to be honest I was not expecting so many people to come, quite a few I do not recognize from other governments, that does not really matter though, more the merrier".

"Oh but yes, I am a Senator Mr Awaud, of Nar Hasska to be more precise, quite the rich trade world, and with the Hutt clans taken care of the economy has boomed, though the jail system is a little over stressed". Even with the whole penal battalions that had been set up to offer criminals a way to get out of jail and prove to be useful in some way. "So, how has the Fel empire been going these day being on the other side of the galaxy it is a little hard to keep up with the new".

 

[Marina DeVoe]

She were absolutely enjoying herself as she made her way about the gala.
So many representatives from a good portion of the free galaxy were here mingling. There was much diversity that for a while, she were just walking about, with a flute of Alderaani Sovereign...a favorite of hers right from her bestie; [member="Mariya Fleischer"] 's own vinyards, Soul Brothers and Sisters.

Marina kind of expected, that many if not all here didn't recognize her, for she was just an intern in her queen's court and had little direct dealings with other dignitaries. Well, at least the ones she hadn't spotted here yet, so there was little interactions. But then again, she knew Queen [member="Faith Organa"] was here and once she spotted her, she would certainly be by her side, much like the queen's aid Becka.

And sure enough, despite the amount of guests, marina caught sight of her queen. A smile graced her features as she casually made her way through in her direction. She took her time, not seemingly rushing over, for her queen was indeed meeting and speaking with so many other representatives. And Becka was after all by her side, taking mental notes perhaps of promised dates and future meetings that her queen was setting up with the representatives she spoke with.

Marina was just a few meters distance when her smile sunk right down to her stomach. She instantly halted in her track before taking a step back to put a couple that were in conversation between her and the irritation.
"Banta fodder..." she uttered to herself, as this just ruined her day here..

"Oh?...no no...I'm fine...I'm just-..." She got caught off guard by the couple she were using to hide herself behind as she peered over to the prince of Alderaan, [member="Theodosius Organa"] , and his guest. Grr...what was he doing here? Marina had read the guest list and he wasn't on the Alderaan list with the Queen and her party.

"...uhm... Marina DeVoe." She switched hands with the flute she were holding, and extended her right to the man who looked to be some sort of dignitary.
"...intern to Queen Faith Organa of Alderaan." She beamed a smile to the representative before her, still tactically keeping well out of line of sight from the prince.
Her eyes darted from Theo to her queen. Seemed they had not yet met for some reason or other. Strange how one royal could be so different from the other. Her experience with the prince had been horrid...he had been horrid.

"Huh?...excuse me, I didn't quite hear." She got her attention back on the representative she was still holding hands with.
He repeated that he were a Senator from Naboo and wondered as to why she happened to bring up banta fodder?

"Gasp...I what?...I..." she retracted her hand, quite embarrassed. had she uttered it out loud? apparently!
"Oh no... I...gulp....sigh..." She wasn't going to slither out of this one. Of all the representatives, she had to curse in the presense of a Nubian senator..and wife most likely. And what did she do? Marina had happily announced to him that she was with Queen Organa representing Alderaan.
'Nice one Marina...the queen is certainly going to give you a commendation for this' She thought to herself.

She had to think quick. Last thing she needed was to have Prince Charming get a hold of that little skid mark she made.
"Ahem...actually, I had been going over with some of our main growers on Alderaan and one of the preferred fertilizers..of natural and green properties is banta fodder." Well, luckily she wasn't kidding, as it was indeed one of the best fertilizers. But Alderaan had for the most part very fertile valleys and there was no real need for banta fodder.

" ...just that Alderaan itself has no need for it...so was just thinking out loud as to what system could benefit with such a rich fertilizer. Not that Alderaan has bantas...of course not.
Just that I had some contacts with that system Tatooine and Kilia IV that do have bantas...ranging free I might add. I was just mulling over as to how to tie these two systems together with a system that needs good rich fertilizer....green... very green and sustainable don't forget." Her pearly white's presented a smile very few could rebuff.

Naturally, Naboo had it's share of green fertilizers from their many indigenous domesticated animals. So the senator nodding his understanding had promised marina to keep his nose about..seeing if he would come across a system or two that could indeed do some commerce with Kilia Iv and Tatooine..concerning banta fodder.

Having ducked what could have potentially dissapointed her queen, Marina bit her excuse and her thanks to the Naboo senator...and mistress/wife..whatever.
marina was not paying too much attention, other than keeping her eye on Theo.
And he appeared to be taking his date in another direction away from her.

She sighed, moving away from the Naboo couple, as she certainly didn't want to be in the same room with the prince...he so irked her so. So she put her flute on the first passing service tray and again casually and not seemingly with purpose found her way out of the gala.
Outside the great hall the first thing she did was step out of those killer stilettos. God they looked good..only they weren't so good standing in them too long.

Marina wasn't sure if she should leave the station all together or just wait it out for prince charming to tire out and leave...or book a room with his date. Marina only cared about avoiding him like the plague. Although the mere fact that he was her queen's twin..
"Oh what the hell..." She despaired.
It was certainly going to be an arduous internship if he were more about the courts. but fortunately so far, he had been scarce...thank the gods!

Marina found herself intrigued by the station and all of it's nicks and crannies. Everything was well designed and functioning. Well, it was a new station. But still, it was quite vast and she figured it would take her days to explore it all. So, corner after corner...and the station was full of corners; there was one thing popping her interest after another. There were many avenues and decks..or floors as they seemed to call them for they were quite tall in height.

"Oh my..." She stopped and backed up two steps to take a better look.
It was an old relic of a ship. Something out of history books. Well, out of her 'Starships of the Past' history holo library.
She hadn't seen such relics still in operation since she had inadvertently gone to Tatooine. And Tatooine being an arid desert planet was perfect in it's preservation of old relics such as this one.
She just had to inquire as to where and how it was acquired. Something of that nature interested her, as her own Loronar Scout vessel was a refurbished vessel that had been brought up to date.

Just her luck, there was a maintenance tech seemingly working on one of the struts.
"Hi... hello...excuse me.." She said, trying to get the attention of the figure bent over the strut.

"Eeek!..." Down she went on her butt, when the figure turned to her and she panicked in surprise, backing herself away. Only she slipped on the bay floor, due to her stockings, and her shoes in hand went flying over her.
For the life of her, Marina hadn't in her wildest dream ever figure on coming face to face with a Tusken Raider.

At least not in a state of the art space station...







@A'Runda

 

[Noatyr Moldmerr]

Slightly disoriented, ticked, and not fully watching where he was going, Noatyr had stood up, and begun stumbling his way to...something. Even he wasn't sure where he was going.

Another drink, that was what he needed, something to dull his senses and keep him from sticking out anymore.

His feet gradually regained full control, and his pace slowed, till he was walking normally again. He rubbed the back of his aching head, and pulled his hand back to find a spot of blood. It seemed he had cut himself a bit when his head had smacked against the wall. Could have been worse though, this was his best jacket, and he'd rather not get it stained.

Not realizing he was no longer paying attention to his surroundings, the young man accidently bumped into a woman of about his age, causing him to stumble back a few steps.

​''Ah jeeze, sorry about that, that was my entirely my fault.''​

He mentally scolded himself for a moment, before his eyes moved to actually look at the one he had stumbled into.

[member="Narcissa Tallhart"]

 

[Eugen Aker]

Dress

The Galaxy Tree was quite the sight for the Echani. While she was no stranger to such massive platforms, the Republic Remnant's efforts were impressive none the less. To come so far in a short time, it gave her hope.

The Helios soon docked, and then everyone was cleared to disembark for the festivities within. She checked on Charlie before she left out with Josh, her +1 for the night. Her apprentice had cleaned up nicely, sporting much more feminine attire for the night. It was an outfit of Jyoti's choosing, trying to break up the monotony of boring slacks. It was struggling not to immediately fawn on how adorable Charlie looked right now.

"It certainly is impressive," she agreed with a smile. "From my understanding, the RR is using it as a sanctuary for refugees. That would make them an ideal member for the Refugee Relief Movement."

She pulled Charlie aside for a moment to communicate through a direct telepathic link where not even other Force Users could eavesdrop.

<Don't feel like you have to hover around me the whole time we're here. I know you have friends that you would like to hang out with.> She looked away from Charlie to some of the other Padawan streaming out of the Corvette.

There a significant age gap between the two females, Charlie just on the cusp of adulthood. Sometimes, Charlie felt like a surrogate as much as an apprentice - a little sister, or even a daughter. So she knew she wasn't always the first option in social encounters.

<I'll still be keeping an eye out for you, though. Have fun.>

She gave Charlie a half hug and a small kiss on the forehead, then separated to go meet up with Josh. He was looking quite dapper in his suit, a nice change from his usual robes. Jyoti had also shed her robes for a strapless dress of bright red, feeling adventurous that night.

Never missing a chance, Josh opened up with a quip after she joined him on his side. Joking about being a stepping stone for more attractive options.

"Hmm, and here I thought I was the one playing homewrecker," she quipped right back to the married man.

He grew more serious as they move deeper into the station, making his anxieties clear about the RR. By now, it was public knowledge about how he had been mistreated as a member of the original Jedi Order during his time with the Galactic Republic.

"I can understand how you feel, but let's give them a chance. I'd like to think the RR has learned from the mistakes of their predecessors. If not, then we can always leave - that's the beauty of independence."

Spoiler

[member="Narcissa Tallhart"] [member="A'Runda"] [member="Tha'ga Temi"]
[member="Ignis Imura"] [member="Gir Quee"] [member="Jaster of Clan Awaud"] [member="Allyson Locke"] [member="Charlie"] [member="Zora Djo"] [member="Junko Ike"] [member="Toreka"] [member="Theodosius Organa"] [member="Tanaski Yumi"] [member="Josh DragonsFlame"] [member="Asaraa Vaashe"] [member="Harley Fenstermacher"] [member="Faith Organa"] [member="Marina DeVoe"] [member="Lilla Syrin"] [member="Noatyr Moldmerr"] [member="Transil Gantar"] (apologies if I missed any tags.)

 

[Charlie Nooran]

Jyoti was always urging Charlie to do social things on her own, to feel comfortable around people especially people within the Order. It was a slow uphill process, but every so slowly Charlie was enjoying these small moments. As Jyoti pulled her aside, she felt her eyes wandering toward the others. She wanted to hang out with Asaraa and the others who were more about her age. As much as she enjoyed hanging out with her Master, she felt more comfortable with her peers.

It had taken some time getting used to the fact that they could communicate through the force like this. Through their minds Charlie nodded and brought a hand to adjust the small protocol droid that she had been given in the ear that was deaf. Noise was off and she could now fully hear properly with everything going on around her. A half hug and a kiss on her forehead, Charlie was now on her own. There was a hint of embarrassment, like when an older sibling or mother shows affection to one in front of their peers. Charlie patted her forehead where the kiss had landed for just a moment until Asaraa called her attention.

Charlie’s face lit up as she saw how pretty the now human girl looked. As much as Charlie enjoyed Asa when she was a Togruta, she appreciated the form she was in now as well. A few looks up and down, Charlie nodded. “It’s pretty awesome, Jyoti gave me free reign – we should check out what they have at the buffet and then look everywhere else. I was told that they use this place for a relief for refugees.” Charlie had grown more talkative as she hung around the other padawans. No longer the shy closed off girl she was when they all first met in the middle of the Kashyyyk forest.

“You look really pretty Asaraa.” Charlie complimented the cotton candy haired girl, a silly grin still spread across her face. As she built up the courage to continue to indulge the other girl with compliments, she was interrupted by an Echani woman who she didn’t have the best history with. Despite this, she knew the way she acted at the potluck wasn’t in the best light and should apologize. “Oh! Hi Ms. Tallhart. I didn’t bring anything with me today. I ate before we left, but I’m sure we could find something to eat. Would be silly for the RR to not feed their guests.”

Pausing for a moment, Charlie played with her hands in front of her waist. A soft sigh and a slight bow of her head. “I’m sorry for how I reacted at the potluck when we first met. I hope we can move forward from that.” Standing straight up, Charlie’s smile returned as she made sure she stood close to Asaraa. Looking back towards the human woman, she hesitated for a moment, then linked their arms together like she had seen others do.

Spoiler

[member="Narcissa Tallhart"] [member="A'Runda"] [member="Tha'ga Temi"]
[member="Ignis Imura"] [member="Gir Quee"] [member="Jaster of Clan Awaud"] [member="Allyson Locke"] [member="Jyoti Nooran"] [member="Zora Djo"] [member="Junko Ike"] [member="Toreka"] [member="Theodosius Organa"] [member="Tanaski Yumi"] [member="Josh DragonsFlame"] [member="Asaraa Vaashe"] [member="Harley Fenstermacher"] [member="Faith Organa"] [member="Marina DeVoe"] [member="Lilla Syrin"] [member="Noatyr Moldmerr"] [member="Transil Gantar"]

 

[Allyson Locke]

It felt like a sea of people flooded out of the ship that the Silver Jedi had arrived in. Allyson quickly got lost in the crowd as she looked for the one person she was interested in speaking to. They rarely got moments like this and without her usual plus one, she looked forward to spending some time with the other. Dipping and dodging as people walked and began to find the people they had come with, Allyson paused for a moment seeing the silver hair of the Jedi Master.

She was busy of course tending to the young padawan she usually had with her. The kid had dressed up, which knowing her Master’s taste in clothing – this was Jyoti’s doing. Allyson hung back leaving the two alone, knowing as she hung around the Jedi more that type of relationship was a bit sacred in a sense. Looking around as she waited for an opportunity, Allyson admired the gowns of the royals that had made their way through. A grin spread across her face as she spotted a woman from the Hapan Heritage Council ([member="Tha'ga Temi"]), they always had the best style in her opinion.

From the corner of her eye she spotted the interaction between Master and Padawan finishing. The Lieutenant Commander adjusted her uniform and started to make her way through the crowd, though she instantly stopped as the woman she had been wanting to speak to was entertaining a gentleman. Allyson stopped in her tracks and covered her face with her hand. Of course, Jyoti wouldn’t come alone, in most cases Allyson herself wouldn’t be arriving alone.

The hand covered her expression as she felt her chest tighten slightly and the pit of her stomach heavy. She had expected things to be a little different than how they were turning out. Her eyes pulled away from them, even if it was difficult with how nicely dressed the Jedi Master was. Allyson glanced towards the bar, an old friend and comforter would be her date for the evening. Standing for a moment where she stood, she made a small fist and knocked it into her forehead gently as she sighed. She hated feeling like this and decided she’d catch up with the Jedi later, maybe.

She moved through the crowd to make her way to the bar, walking past Jyoti and Josh without saying anything, she was focused on getting to the bar and having a drink as soon as she could. Sliding up to the counter she forced a smile and the bartender made his way over. “Best Corellian whiskey you got back there, neat and keep the tab open. You and your ability to pour a drink are my date tonight.” The older bartender chuckled and obliged the pilot. Part of her wished the others from the squadron had come, at least then she could distract herself. The drink appeared and she thanked the bartender. Downing the first one quickly, she was instantly refilled.

Spoiler

[member="Narcissa Tallhart"] [member="A'Runda"] [member="Tha'ga Temi"]

Spoiler

[member="Ignis Imura"] [member="Gir Quee"] [member="Jaster of Clan Awaud"] [member="Jyoti Nooran"] [member="Charlie"] [member="Zora Djo"] [member="Junko Ike"] [member="Toreka"] [member="Theodosius Organa"] [member="Tanaski Yumi"] [member="Josh DragonsFlame"] [member="Asaraa Vaashe"] [member="Harley Fenstermacher"] [member="Faith Organa"] [member="Marina DeVoe"] [member="Lilla Syrin"] [member="Noatyr Moldmerr"] [member="Transil Gantar"]

 

[Asaraa Vaashe]

The pink-haired Padawan’s eyes widened slightly as [member="Charlie"] linked their arms together, stiffening in surprise for a moment before she relaxed, bending her arm at the elbow to echo Charlie’s motion. People changed, that was perhaps one of the most fundamental laws of the universe, but it was one that it was so easy to forget or overlook. Asaraa could still remember when Charlie had first joined the order, a scared little girl who had blossomed into the happy and confident woman next to her. While some of that transformation could be attributed to the attention and care of Jyoti Nooran none of it would have been possible if there hadn’t been something in the girl herself pushing to improve. A genuine relaxed smile touched Asaraa’s lips as she nodded her head, “Yeah, for an occasion like this they must have gone all out. In the name of the Silver Jedi and comparing notes we need to investigate that buffet, I mean we wouldn’t want to miss out on any tips we could take home for the chefs back there. They’d never forgive us.”

The young woman’s aqua eyes flicked over her companions, nodding amicably at [member="Narcissa Tallhart"], while the Padawan hadn’t seen her around before she knew Charlie and any friend of her friend was someone she could get on with. “Besides, three, frankly gorgeous women like us should have no problem rustling up a tour guide, or you know sneaking away to explore this place.” They said curiosity killed the cat but last time she checked none of them had tails, maybe she should check again…nope no tails present. “You know, I’m really starting to regret not showing up for the Potluck,” she continued with a wry smile, shifting slightly so her hip bumped into Charlie’s, “next time I’m tucked away somewhere training instead of socialising you have my permission to slap me upside the head or something, obviously there must be something wrong with me then.” It certainly sounded like the meetup had been an exciting one, but then things normally were interesting when the Jedi all got together. “Alright,” she squared her shoulders, glancing down at her dress one more time. She still wasn’t used to it, although Charlie had mentioned it looked good, a slight tweak of the force adjusted the fall, it might not be something she was used to wearing, but she had to admit the feeling of the silk wasn’t a bad one as it swished between her legs. “oh, and thank you,” she loosed a bright smile at Charlie, “you look great too, I love the dress.” The pink-haired woman held out her free hand to Narcissa, “well shall we brave the tumultuous crowd and see what wonders await us in the buffet?”

 

[A'Runda]

As he looked over his ship, taking note of what needs to be done. However, he heard footsteps behind him coming up. Then heard a voice, that of a woman. A'Runda then peered over his shoulder and stood up. Turing to face her, he flinched back as she yelled out and fell back. Looking down at her through his mask. He felt bad, instantly understanding exactly why she did that.

Worried he'd frightened her even more he hesitated to help her. But he was sure it would be appreciated. Moving over her, he gently reached his hand out. "I'm sorry, I understand why your scared. Here, let he help you up." He said, hoping that she'd take his wrapped hand. "I wont hurt you if that's what you're afraid of. I promise you that." A'Runda was being honest.

[member="Marina DeVoe"]

 

[Josh Dragovalor]

When Jyoti would make the remark about his marriage, he would suddenly frown and look toward her then. That pause and his expression indicated that - for whatever reason - his marriage was not something he wanted to talk about right now, at least not in front of a crowd. He managed to find the humor though, and shook his head with a light chuckle as he let the joke slide. "You're lucky that you're cute" He playfully scoffed in a tease toward her as he nudged her playfully with his shoulder. She wasn't that much smaller than he was, she could take it. Not that he did so very hard, of course but the amazon-like Echani most likely wouldn't even feel it if he'd been much gentler.

He let out an exhale as Jyoti would remark that perhaps things wouldn't be as bad... Even if his trust issues were justified. "I suppose it's worth a shot at least" The Jedi would respond, doing his best to try and regain his composure. "Yet there's always the sentiment... Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice..."

He shrugged after that, and left the point at that. He noted the presence of a few people he knew, including [member="Charlie"] Brown, [member="Asaraa Vaashe"], [member="Narcissa Tallhart"] and others. He only knew most of them minorly, but it was a comfort to see a few familiar faces. Especially in a place under the Republic banner.

"If they brand us war criminals for no reason... You're playing bait since trusting them was your idea" Josh quipped toward Jyoti, suddenly shooting her a cheeky grin as his usual humor began to return. "That or we use the "get help" tactic... Works everytime."

Looking around at the scene, he would try to allow himself to relax just a little. "I'll admit, more-formal occasions are not something I'm more recently used to. Between the stiff style of dress and need for adjusted mannerisms, I'd dare say this is more terrifying than facing down a blighted rancor" He cracked, seeming fine to make light of... Basically everything. "Even more terrifying than that if Narcissa and Charlie get to the pie. Or god forbid they run into whatshername... Before that, I'll take a few Sith Lords instead please."

[member="Jyoti Nooran"]

 

[Marina DeVoe]

It was unlike her to react as such, especially in a secured and modern station. Only that marina had not for the life of her expected anyone like a Tusken raider to be this far out of the Rim.
And for a split second, as when the man turned from working on the strut, it flashed her as if the Raider had been picking apart the old relic of a craft in much the same manner as the Raiders did when they scavenged parts from vehicles on Tatooine.

Marina sat there on her butt looking up at the robed creature in amazement now more than shock. Her one feeble attempt at just getting herself up off her butt landed her right back down...curse the tight fitting gown, slippery floor and stockings.

"Uhm... " she was hesitant at first to reach up to his offered hand. But what could she do?..turn around and crawl to get up? Very unladylike.
"...sh...sure.." She took hold of his hand and in one easy motion he drew her up off the floor.
Marina tried her best not to stare at the mask and wrappings, rather averting her attention a moment to spot the shoes she had dropped.

"....no, no... I just got startled ts'all. I hadn't expected-" Oops, what was she doing? Going to say that she hadn't expected his kind here on the station? How awful, she felt even having that notion run through her head. Although it were just that, her surprise at seeing a raider this far away from the outer Rim. Then again, she hadn't known or heard of any Tusken Raiders going off planet side.
weren't they just scavengers?..much like the Jawas, only that the Sand People outside of their staffs and rifles were not tech savvy or users...much less space farers.

"Ahem..." She cleared her throat, rephrasing what she were about to say.
"... I mean....sigh.... " She couldn't circumvent the fact that she thought he was out of place somehow.
"... I've never met a Tuskenee outside of the Outer Rim...actually only on Tatooine." She finally blurted it out.
She did for the most part always seemed to speak her mind...for better or worse.




A'Runda