Private Une nuit de fête - A night of celebration (Illyria, invite only)

[Xobos Yakieer]

Location: Garde Noire, Phara de Chateau
Dress: Picked out by the pink
Time of day: Evening
Tags: | Cali Ziiva | Aymeric Rouche | Leven Jeyd | Saraya Arenais | Adron Malvern | Danielle Mueller | Rowena Arenais | Mahaut | Epistor of Phasekion | Moe Uilor | Seren Maeve | Fauvel Astier | The High Court of Illyria |

Xobos had faced down many a threat in her time as a knight. Massive Maalraas, crazed jedi and sith, even her own people. Every single time, she came out on top, standing tall above it all. There was almost never a time that she thought that she might not make it out of a situation, that everything was too much for her and would fly straight over her head. Adron had taught her to be that way, to instill that confidence within her.

So why…why did planning a party for a bunch of Sieurs, Magnates, all the way up to the King himself, have her feeling more nervous than any mission that had been laid out for her before now? Even with the pink Zeltron by her side, walking her through every step of the planning, there was a nervous energy that sat at the pit of her stomach for almost the entire week leading up to the night of celebration. The amount of moving parts that were included in putting on a party such as this one boggled her mind, and she was absolutely positive that had Cali not been right next to her the whole way through, there was a good chance Xobos would’ve lost her mind well before the night of the party.

What food to have, where to find the music, who to exclude or include on the guest list, how to keep an eye on both Aymeric Rouche and Leven Jeyd the whole night, whether to open the entire state or to keep it centralized to one location, whether or not to finish the night with fireworks, how much extra security to hire….on and on it went.

Thankfully, whenever a question popped to Xobos’ mind, Cali almost instantly had an answer. In the end, they settled on a more or less simple venue for the party itself. It would be divided within two locations, the ballroom of the estate and the gardens. For the ballroom, it is where the majority of the food would be provided, included an almost full dinner that had been handpicked according to the King’s likes, as well as a few finger foods that the party could enjoy while taking a break from the dancing the room had also been divided for. A small band, one that Xobos had enjoyed the company of many times while running around during the King’s absence had been invited, putting together a symphony of music for both enjoyment sitting down and for dancing.

The garden was much more a location to retire to after the excitement. Much of it had been sectioned off specifically for security reasons, guarded by Xobos’ guards and a group of men brought along by Zax, whom she had contacted to help handle security. The main area of the garden would be a wide open space with the small pool in the middle, string lights attached to polls raised high in the sky, basking the green area in a warm golden hew. Waiters would be allowed to roam the areas, bringing drinks to anyone that might want them. And at the end of the night, the lights would be turned off, allowing for a small fireworks show to be executed.

All of this cost Xobos a pretty penny to be sure, however between the fact the Sieur led a mostly spartan lifestyle and the providence having such a wonderful year, it was entirely within the bounds of what they could do. They, being herself and Cali. Because without the Zeltron, there was definitely a possibility none of this would’ve fallen into place.

The party’s main reason for existing would also be it’s main reason for celebration, and Xobos could not wait to walk arm in arm with the new Chief Manufacturing Consultant of the Court of Iron.

When the night finally rolled around, Xobos found herself waiting patiently for Cali as the alien got ready for the night’s events. Soon, the guests would be arriving in the courtyard, where her staff would be ready to address them. At the moment, she had no real idea where her apprentices were running around, and she hoped above hoped that they both had decided to wear what had been picked out for them. Neither were exactly predisposed to dressing a certain way, but she had hoped that Cali being the one to ask them to do so would give them more…of a leaning to actually do so.

Besides, the dress for the night wasn’t…too stuffy.

“C’mon Cali!” She called out, peaking her head into the dressing room the pair shared. “I promise your hair looks...amazing. We need to make sure we’re meeting any guests that decide to arrive early. I’m almost positive that includes Legget.” Xobos had been..hesitant on inviting the mining guild’s leader. However, with some careful convincing, he assured her that he would not only be on his best behavior, but he would also bring some of the old mining town’s wonderful songs to close out the night before the party retired to the gardens. That had sealed the deal for her, but there was still a standing order among the guards to watch just how much the guild leader had to drink.

Spoiler

Feel free to arrive however you please!! I feel like we'll have a few posts of milling about in the ball room before dinner is served, then a musical number by the guild leader, followed by the party retiring to the gardens! Hope we all have fun!

 

[Saraya Arenais]

I N D U L G E​

L O C A T I O N | Garde Noire, Phare de Chateau
W E A R I N G | {x} - {x}
T A G | Adron Malvern - Rowena Arenais - Xobos Yakieer - Cali Ziiva - Aymeric Rouche - Leven Jeyd - Danielle Mueller - Freyu Molidias - Mahaut

The luxury shuttle sped smoothly toward Phare de Chateau. Saraya caught brief glimpses of it through the viewport, between the jagged grey mountains that parted like curtains in some places. Illyria was home to no shortage of grandeur, so it came as no surprise that Garde Noire fell in line. Saraya lent back into the plush seat, allowing the feathered pillow to envelop her.

It was an important night, for everyone. The appointment of a new Chief Manufacturing Consultant meant a great deal to many. Not in the least to the man who sat by her side, who held a far greater weight on his shoulders than Saraya could ever comprehend. Whatever helped to alleviate his burden was of extreme importance to the Queen to be.

Any other woman would have been nervous by now. The prospect of meeting so many people vital to Illyria’s prosperity should have made her palms sweat. It was imperative that they liked her. Trusted her. Saw her as the equal of the man she stood beside. However, Saraya was far from nervous. Like most fiancées enamoured with their loves, she drew her confidence from him. The was only one difference. Adron was far from an ordinary man. His realm was that of shadow and darkness. His confidence was the unspoken dominance he held over this endless well of power, and Saraya drank from it greedily. Since there was no limit to his might, there was no limit to her confidence.

Saraya had long ago promised herself to be whatever he needed her to be. In the time it took for him to breathe the words she would readily and eagerly abandon her whole self to his every need. Right now, he required only one thing of her.

To be a Queen.

So, a Queen she would be.

Before the doors of the shuttle slid open before they were faced with a night of a thousand eyes watching their every move, Saraya stole a moment of privacy with him. One of her free hands found its way to his, entwining them together until she could feel the rush of blood in her fingertips. A swathe of chocolate brown hair settled against his shoulder as she nestled her head into the crook of his neck. She said nothing. In the silence she could almost picture the ebony swirls of force dancing around his form, flashing the demon hidden within each time they curled around his face. He was beautiful still, and Saraya was no less enamoured by him in this form than she was the man.

As the shuttle began to descend, her fingertips slid up his sleeve to steady herself in the comforting presence of his heartbeat. The powerful thud that calmed every concern and washed away every anxiety. He was, and forever would be, her strength. She relished in it greatly. Siphoning every last inch of the tantalisingly powerful darkness he permitted her to drink.

For the final few moments of their flight, Saraya’s eyes remained only on him.

 

[Leven Jeyd]

Location: Phare du Chateau.
Wearing: XxX.
Tagging: Xobos Yakieer ~ Cali Ziiva ~ Aymeric Rouche ~ Saraya Arenais ~ Adron Malvern

​

Tonight was one of celebration.

The beloved pink resident of the Black Guard had been awarded with a most honorable title, and the lady of these lands had managed to secure for herself a new and shinier one. The Chief Manufacturing Consultant and the Magnate. These were feats most noble families could only fathom to achieve in several generations - Garde Noir had managed it in little more than a year. Now, all this meant very little to a particular creature that still laid in wait in some far away attic deep within the castle. The Jester thought it all very...senseless. Sieur this, Magnate that, protocols, expectations...

In the end they were all the same valueless beings sporting different names and never-changing faces. They were not worth her time, so all she could hope for was that at least they would prove to be mildly entertaining.

In truth, celebrating Cali's promotion and feasting her eyes upon the many colors and shapes that decorated her home were her only motivations for the moment. Well, that and the promise of punishment if It did not make itself present in the gardens at the agreed upon time, donning the agreed upon garments. Leven did not particularly like dresses nor the way they obstructed her movement. However, she knew it wouldn't matter too much. Not now that her precious skin could change again, and the clothes she wore with it. Indeed, as the crystal white eyes she had chosen for herself gazed upon the reflection she imprinted on the mirror, the changeling could not help but feel enamored.

Yes, she would ensure this night of celebration was also a night of fun.

~~~

Hours later, Leven would make her way through the halls of Beacon Castle towards the gardens, eyes swiftly finding the two hosts of the ball as well as her newly acquired sibling apprentice. Leven did not precisely appreciate the addition of another to their little team. She was more than enough, and finding no good reason why Xobos would want any other she had chalked it up to a moment of charitable weakness from the Sith Knight.

Leven normally would have made space for herself right between Yakieer and Cali - forever the little pest whom would expect if not seek attention from both. Particularly the pink one, Cali seemed to be the one being in the universe capable of handling all the inhabitants of Garde Noir at the same time. She was valuable. Jester simply could not understand the logic that would have her compared in any way to majority of tonight's mind-numbing guests.

Alas, tonight demanded formality be respected and Leven knew it was wiser to save what patience Xobos had to deal with her antics for later - so instead she simply stood next to the Magnate.

As the time finally drew near and the palace began to welcome its guests, a smile stretched Leven's lips. A sly smile. The kind of smile Xobos did not want to see on the face of Garde Noir's resident devil. She only needed to wait until they moved to the halls and then, under the cover of the noble masses, she would make her escape - and would partake in this celebrations in a way that would be both entertaining and hopefully profitable.

Her white gaze fell on Aymeric for a moment, blank and impossible to read. She had been debating having the new apprentice tag along in her upcoming escapade - perhaps a little test of subterfuge would help her decide if he was truly worth keeping.

 

[Cali Ziiva]

Location: Garde Noire, Phara de Chateau
Dress: For Her Cutey

The Zeltron tried telling her Miraluka that parties weren't like anything a certain King taught her, and that it was okay to be overwhelmed. Adron was particular driven to making sure his Apprentices were mentally and physically capable, but not terribly socially or politically savvy. Well, he probably had some like that, but then it was probably reversed. If Cali had to guess, Adron probably prioritized one thinking if you can survive being shot or stabbed, you'll have time to learn how to be cunning. Kind of a twisted logic to it, really, but it wasn't wrong.

Anyway! Cali guided Xobos Yakieer through it all, even if she left out some of the details. It was already way too much to take in the first time. Wasn't like this was the only party Xobos would hold. They had time to practice these things.

As for the preparations... Should they have fireworks the answer was YES. Not every party probably warranted them, but why wouldn't you have a colorful and dazzling spectacle at night? Cali was quite good at making things that exploded. Intentionally or otherwise.

QT-314 helped keep track of all the expenses, naturally. Her bot was quite good at that. Because she was a bot. Yep, had to make sure they didn't bankrupt Xobos' home cause it wasn't the richest providence in the galaxy. They were working on that, of course. Things took time, and Cali wouldn't just dump credits on Illyria -- people went kinda nuts when 'sudden credits' happened. And there was a little matter of pride. A Sieur's hardwork paying off would help both Sieur, their people, and earn respect in one's peers.

Uh, don't tell Xobos though. You know. Pride in one's work, spending one's credits to show off, yadda yadda-- Cali might pay for some of the stuff herself to help with the 'do not go bankrupt' angle. Like, the mines still needed plenty of work and with the new land there'd be need for credits to build things so... easier to hide a little extra financial padding with all this outsourcing for a party.

As the time of the gathering drew near, the Pink One bounced into the kitchen with a face-splitting grin. With a devilish plan to have a lavish chocolate feature to be enjoyed by guests. Credits might not be the only thing Cali added to the party. Hey, at least she didn't get a 'modern' rock band or dance lights! But if all this band Xobos called upon did was slow music... well, a Zeltron would just have to convince them to play something with tempo at some point. There was respectful to tradition and then there was completely forgettable and that wasn't happening long as Cali was involved!

Shimmy shimmy. Wiggle wiggle. Cali slipped her dress on when it came time to get into costume. At least they were wearing something decent for a change and not suffocating in clothing. Parties were certainly good at getting prudes to loosen up -- even a little.

Cali was just finishing the last second checks and minor adjustments to her cotton candy hair when Xobos called out. "Legget? Well, I guess it's good the guy watching the mines is desperate to stay on your good side," Cali called back as she slowly strode out of the dressing room. Naturally she gave a little twirl as she stepped out for Xobos to inspect. A grin followed as her eyes landed on the Miralukan's appearance. "Not that it should be hard to do -- my Xoxo only having good sides."

"Just remember to smile, tell everyone you're happy to see them," the Zeltron said absently as she crossed over to fawn over Xobos, "even if you don't like them. Especially if you don't like them. Have fun, but remember all these Noble this and Impotant that people are going to be watching you. Even if the lecherous ones watch me they'll inevitably turn to you. Not every day someone earns a new title. They'll be curious how, why, and what you'll do next."

"So," Cali leaned in for a quick kiss, "ready to go meet some people?"

Tag: Xobos Yakieer | Aymeric Rouche | Leven Jeyd | Saraya Arenais | Adron Malvern | Danielle Mueller | Rowena Arenais | Mahaut | Eustachya | Moe Uilor | Seren Maeve | Fauvel Astier | The High Court of Illyria |

 

[Adron Malvern]

K I N G​

Tags: Xobos Yakieer Saraya Arenais Cali Ziiva Leven Jeyd Aymeric Rouche ​

The King absolutely hated the amount of party invitations he received. It was one thing that did drive the man up every wall in the palace. Several a day, invitations in every form of communication known to Illyria. Dinners, balls, birthdays, coming of age celebrations, weddings. They were all events that the Nobility of Illyria wished he would attend, mostly in an attempt to try and impress him or declare their loyalty. He missed far more than he ever attended. However there were some events he chose to take part in.

Not long after his dominion over Illyria, the Sith Lord discovered the Mirilukan Force User, Xobos Yakieer . He had taken her from the depths of darkness and molded her into a weapon to defend all that he had built. Through his power she became a powerful Sith Knight, yet it was her own prowess and capable decisions that led her to this day. Although he had granted the title of Magnate, Xobos Yakieer had earned the charge several times over. She was one of the King's most loyal retainer and for her ascension, he would appear.

The trip from the Royal Palace to Garde Noire was less than an hour utilizing the King's transport speeder. A ship designed for deep space flight could have crossed the planet in a fraction of the time, however the King appreciated the time with his bride to be, Saraya Arenais . They had enjoyed a good amount of privacy together since their union, but it never seemed to be enough. Even when he worked in his office or held meetings in court, the woman who held his heart was never far from his side. She was watching, learning, and soon embodying the station she was to hold.

She was his Queen.

She was perfection. On the flight, the King's hand remained on his chin as his eyes gazed out at the mountains that flew below them.

"So many mountains." He said to break the silence. "Beautiful." He remarked as he turned towards Saraya, though it was quickly made apparent that he was not speaking of the mountains, but the woman sitting beside him.

Saraya was a dedicated woman who had devoted herself to the King. This facet alone made her intoxicating to be around and would make her a powerful Sith Lady beside the King. "We have arrived." The King said as the speeder began to slow, flowing over a final mountain range.

The speeder flew over the mountain ridge, but it was not alone. Several other transport speeders followed closely behind, their glistening metal seals showing them as being part of the King's royal retinue.

When Saraya reached out for the King, he said nothing and merely pulled her into his arms, holding her close for a spare moment. "Remember. You are to be their Queen." He told her. Finally the ship came down to rest on the landing platform, causing the King to place a soft kiss on his beloved's brow.

Several of the transport ships landed in a semi-circle formation behind the King's.

The first to disembark were the members of the Royal Guard. Le Garde Des Rois were the finest knights on the planet, clad in shining armored suits and carrying freshly polished vibropikes. Eight of the Armored Knights disembarked their transport, raising their pikes to the sky in a powerful arch directed towards the King's shuttle.

The next to disembark their shuttle were a number of Nobleman and Women of the High Court. Count's Viscount's, and Marquis, nearly thirty in number standing in flowing robes of silk and fine suits hand made for the evening.

Standing before the group was Jean de'Luo, the King's own Chamberlain and personal assistant. As he stood before the group, his hand waved towards the primary shuttle.

"Presenting to Garde Noire, His majesty the King of Illyria and Lady Saraya of House Arenais of Mnemosyne!" He announced in his usual proud, concise manner.

With that the doors to the shuttle would open and a small smile would come to his lips as he looked to Saraya. "Let us enjoy ourselves." He said.​

 

[Bleve Tulere]

Wearing ~ dress
Carrying ~ lightsaber épingle à cheveux ( x2 )
Tag ~ Saraya Arenais

"Filandra," Geanndra whispered into the sleek, nude earpiece hidden under the thick curl of her hair, "the balconies are clear."

As soon as an equally small but stalwart 'entendue' came over the handmaidens' shared frequency, their intern breathed a sigh of intermingled emotion. It was difficult for her to tell what said mixture was even made of, as its parts refused to precipitate out into the container of her heart. Instead they stayed steadfast in muddled suspension. She glanced over her shoulder before raising her champagne flute - which emphatically did not contain said ambrosia - and stepping back into the shadows metaphorical and physical: the shaded crowd gathered near the bannisters of the second floor.

Festivities like tonight's were the plight of the three women alongside Lady Saraya, Queen-to-be, and so too would become Gea's if she was selected to fill the Forbidden Sisters' void. With any luck at all, Garde Noire would be her last training exercise, after which she would be inducted as one of their breed. One of the queen's brood. To be at her side rather than up here with the other security details was what Gea had longed after since Alessandra's coronation, but for Adron most of all. He was a great king, rule infallible and world grandeur. Both needed him - they would fall to ruin under any other. In turn, he needed his Queen. Though Gea had never seen Alessandra nor Saraya in person, she imagined she had, for she had seen much of her country. Personifying it, then, was no difficult task.

Great, flowing rivers of hair. Skin rich as agricultural soils. Jewelry of the greatest exports. Cloth reflections of Illyrian artistry.

And she would come to look like it too.

Suddenly, a knot tied at the bottom of Gea's stomach, warm and light, like she hadn't been sipping colored water. The surgery would be among the very first orders of business should she be selected. She didn't desire to look like another woman - especially when she reminded herself of her own falterings from the pinnacle of Illyrian beauty - but she world accept the cost of climbing to the very summit of Illyrian greatness.

But a craggy handhold gave way under her weight and, though the danger of falling was easy enough to avoid, her heart jumped into her throat. Her heart thus told her mind: today might be the last time you are truly Gea.

What dangers lie in that realization alone.

 

[Aymeric Rouche]

Wearing: Oufit
Equipment: Tray of Champagne

Aym relationship with Xobos was an absolutely harrowing balancing act between abject hatred and begrudging respect, that could adjust either way over the tiniest of incidents. Her complaining to him about depopulating the local squirrels; increased abject hate. Her managing to woo Cali at some point; begrudging respect increased. On and on it went, until some days passed where he'd grown so accustomed to the daily goings-on that he barely even thought of his teacher. This was not one of those days; in fact, it was the farthest one could possibly get from one. This party of hers had tipped the scales of his good will all the way to full abject hatred, and it'd take nothing less than a mountain on the other end to even lift it from being bottomed out. The hunter actually didn't believe he'd heard her correctly the first time, and asked Xobos to repeat it just to be sure he hadn't spontaneously gone deaf. Nope, he'd heard right; every single major person he hated, including the false king himself, would be under one roof. If not for the fact that the whole appalling gathering was in Cali's honor, he'd have been doing dry runs to see how many explosives he could hide on his body, and used his improving math skills to actually calculate the blast radius this time around.

Instead, Aym had the immeasurable displeasure of primping himself up for a bunch of people he couldn't stand on an existential level, excluding Cali of course, which honestly was so par for the course his rage jumped right from endless wrath into numb apathy from the onset. He'd grumbled his way through seeing an actual tailor for a nice suit, a barber to shape his mass of normally greasy curls into something manageable, and a crash course in what not to say to the numerous VIPs, especially "King" What's-his-name. Beyond the stuff he was being forced into, the hunter had been mostly reclusive during the run up to the big night. Not even force training would break him out of this funk. Throughout all of this, he found himself doing a fair bit of introspection regarding the current arrangement he had with Xobos, and the household on a whole; sure, they'd had a few laughs, but overall this just didn't seem to be sustainable in the long run. Something had to give somewhere, and he had the sneaking suspicion that he was the weak link here.

Earlier in the evening, he hadn't felt that bad while finally giving in enough to take a shower, nor finally donning a suit he'd rather die than admit was the best thing he'd ever worn. No, the real torture arrived upon making his way to the ballroom and finding the place bustling with activity, servants seeing to every last detail with practiced grace. It all made Aym more than a little queasy. This was the most people he'd ever seen in a single room, and something about the numerous conversations going at once, so many folks sharing the same air, really made him uncomfortable. He tried to ride out this sense of....overcrowding, only for it to build up to a fever pitch. Moving quickly, hopefully not enough to alert suspicion, the hunter left the room and ducked beyond the nearest marble pillar, tucking himself out of sight. He could still pick up the slightest bit of the conversations, so he moved down a few more pillars until he was free to hyperventilate in peace. Best he could tell, the unnaturalness of having that many people in such a small area had slowly eroded his sanity. Wait, was this why all those city folks had been so welcoming to the barbarians? Had their minds been tormented like this until their integrity gave way as well? Gods, that was a sobering thought.

Aym opted to stick to the shadows while recovering from this ordeal, moving even further down the row of pillars as the volume in the ballroom gradually increased. He sighed after lifting the glove over his artificial hand and checking the watch feature on the wrist. Damn, he was out of time. With great reluctance, he slinked out from his latest hiding spot and started trudging back towards the din of bedlam and odd snack food. The hunter was barely through the door when he spotted a well-dressed waiter with a tray of something bubbly and in fancy glasses, which he assumed was alcohol of some sort. Strolling over with authority, he glared daggers at the mousy woman until she stopped and awaited his evident disapproval. "I'll take these, go get another tray." Aym instructed roughly, making it very clear he wasn't in the mood for any backtalk. With his bounty in hand, he retreated farther from the action and balanced the tray on the base of a tall statue. From under its shade, he just starting knocking back the strange concoctions, neither knowing nor caring how they managed to get bubbles into it.

The hunter was on his third glass, and had a fourth in his off-hand, when he had the misfortune of locking eyes with Xobo's pet shifter thing, the Gremlin. He had to admit, for being a crime against nature and utterly insufferable, he kinda liked the little monster. She could almost match his surliness, and was a surprisingly competent warrior; both features he could respect. Aym raised his artificial hand in greeting, but otherwise made no indication he wanted to get any closer to the festivities. It was only through the grace of inebriation that he hadn't had another anxious fit yet anyway. This beverage proved so good for his moral, that he'd honestly forgotten the chief reason he'd been so reluctant to attend this party in the first place; right up until some jackass decided to yell it out for all to hear. The king was here....

The glass in Aym's artificial hand shattered in an instant, drenching his pants leg, as it clenched into a fist. "That's right..." he hissed, slowly releasing his grip and letting lingering shards of glass fall to the marble floor. The hunter drained the remaining vessel in a single long gulp, then placed it back on the tray. There had to be something stronger around here.

 

[Xobos Yakieer]

Location: Garde Noire, Phara de Chateau
Dress: Picked out by the pink
Time of day: Evening
Tags: | Cali Ziiva | Aymeric Rouche | Leven Jeyd | Saraya Arenais | Adron Malvern | Danielle Mueller | Rowena Arenais | Mahaut | Epistor of Phasekion | Moe Uilor | Seren Maeve | Fauvel Astier | @The High Court of Illyira |

Apparently someone in the manor had decided to start the fireworks show early. Once Xobos had been able to take the time to take in her partner’s gorgeous look for the night, bringing a genuine smile to her tired features, the miraluka met the Zeltron’s lips in a kiss as she pulled Cali closer by her hips. A sense of calmness, serenity, and the releasing of tension seemed to leak from their linking, Xobos pulling the Zeltron closer and not releasing her just yet. She couldn’t. not after how long this week had been, could Xobos release Cali just yet. All of the tension and stress just seemed to melt away when she was in that moment, right with her partner.

Unfortunately, air was a necessary part of life, and the Miraluka did need pull back eventually, but only far enough to lean back, gaze staying fixed upon the pink skinned alien. After a moment’s hesitation, her grip on Cali’s hips was slowly released to reach up toward her mask, pulling it off. The smooth skin underneath looked almost unnatural, yet was natural for her species. The removing of her mask was a deeply personal moment for Xobos, only those that the Miraluka trusted with their lives and souls being given the opportunity to see this willingly. Her mask still raised slightly, she leaned forward, pressing their foreheads together with a shakey breath rattling through her.

“How did I get so lucky as to have you by my side, Cali..” She started, reaching down to grasp her hands together with her own. “I know that I would not be in this position without you. There is no way I would’ve been able to fight my mind, my sisters, and my master without you steering me continually in the right direction. I don’t say it enough..and I know I can be overprotective…but I..am so thankful you have stuck by my side all the while throughout this, and I cannot wait to spend this night with you, celebrating what you have done for this world…….and for me.” Xobos took a half step forward once more, bringing their lips together yet again. There wasn’t much to be said about why this was the moment Xobos finally decided to confess to all of this. Maybe the night’s tension being finally released allowed her to do so, but whatever the reason, it was something that had been needing to be said for quite a long time.

They did need to be hosts, however, and as much as Xobos wanted to stay in their room the entire night, they had been planning this party for a while and it would be a waste to not show up. Pulling back just far enough to plant a kiss on Cali’s nose, her lips pulled into a soft smile while pulling her mask back down. “I’ve still got my cutie by my side to glare those lecherous ones down. And besides…I’m sure Aym and Leven would love the opportunity to mess with some uptight noble.” A little chuckle rumbled from her throat, right before she started for the door, ready to meet all of those that had decided that Garde would be their place of rest that night.

Luckily for the pair, by the time they reached the front entrance, only the most early of guests had arrived. They still got greeted by Xobos and her partner, though it was who arrived next that truly captured the attention of the guards and earliest arrivals. A luxurious speeder, one that Xobos had had the opportunity to ride in many a time. A slight smirk was pulling at the edges of her lips at the pompous nature of the King’s arrival, though as he and his queen to be stepped out, she made sure to bow as respectfully as possible. “My King,” her voice, full of pride began, starting up once again as she rose from her bow. “we are beyond happy to have you here, tonight. The attendants of the night will show you to the ballroom, where we will join you after the guests have all arrived.” Xobos stepped to the side, motioning deeper into the manor with a smile.

Her new position as king passed by allowed her to see the Jester standing off to the side, and soon after, her other apprentice, one who looked as though he would stare blaster holes in the king if possible. Seeing this, her gaze found the Leven’s once more, nodding toward Aym with the connotation of them staying close to each other for the night. They certainly could get into more trouble together than apart..but maybe they could also check each other better. A ying and yang.

With the king making his way into the manor, Xobos squeezed Cali’s hand as they started to stand at the entrance once more. “Let’s get through this quick so we can go dance, hm?” A quick side glance toward the Zeltron would reveal the Miraluka’s grin, the jovial nature of the night obviously seeping into the typically more reserved knight.

 

[Cali Ziiva]

Location: Garde Noire, Phara de Chateau
Dress: For Her Cutey

A soft squeak of surprise accompanied Xobos' tug. Times like these it was really hard to remember to keep her pheromones under control. Arms entangled about one another, pressed together, and lips locked a Zeltron could totally get swept away in the moment. She did manage, however, because it was an important night. No excuse for a Magnate that didn't show up because her Zeltron had torn her clothes off -- and that's exactly what they'd think too. Frustrating thing is they would have been right. Kind of. Cali wouldn't tear the clothes off. It was a pretty dress for the Miralukan cutey.

Cali smiled when their lips parted, her eyes wide and aglow with delight. Of course she was happy Xobos was happy -- that was a Zeltron's shtick. Though Xobos didn't stop with just the compliment.

After the Miralukan's confession there hadn't even been time for a response before they kissed again.

Xobos was definitely overprotective at times. Cali had managed to get the cute one to let her follow into some mild danger even if Xobox refused to stray far. It was a start. After all, the alternative was Cali sneaking aboard a ship as a stowaway and ending up in harm's way regardless. Not that she wanted to get hurt, but the Pink One wanted to help, or at least understand what Xobos went through at times. It helped offer advice and to console her love when things got really bad -- as Xobos had confessed to being grateful for.

"That's true," she managed to get a word in edgewise finally as they made for the door. To think it was usually everyone else trying to say something instead. "But make sure they can't be identified as the cause." A giggle soon followed. What? Pranks could be fun, but even fun ones didn't go over with Nobles that well. Especially if they turned out to be of higher status -- which was pretty much a given considering Xobos' present circumstances.

"You know, Xoxo, tonight's celebrating you too," Cali added as they moved down the hallway. "Everything you've struggled through and done. Few would have made it so far in your position. Always remember I wouldn't be here without you."

It had helped the Miraluka was receptive to a humble Zeltron's comforts and advice. Some wouldn't have listened and gone on to do whatever they wanted. Cali would have tried, but if the other party never heard what you said... Well, sometimes things don't work out. She wondered where she would have been without Xobos. Probably in a workshop on Naboo building a mecha.

Instead she was on Illyria building a mecha.

Okay, not a mecha. Just tons of other things.

Mecha weren't worthwhile, you know? Like, cool to see standing there or blowing up a stationary target. But Mecha were so big they made easy targets for everything. Now, augmentation suits for soldiers might work! Maybe help them cross uneven terrain quicker or survive injuries longer. Much better than a giant robot -- though not quite as cool.

With a bright grin and a bubbly laugh, Cali greeted the first guests along side Xobos. This kind of thing? Easy peasy for a Zeltron. They'd welcome a Sith Lord on Zeltros provided said Lord wasn't swinging their saber around. Which was good considering, you know, King Malvern's status.

Oh, speaking of whom, look who just showed up with like... three quarters of the Court and half the army or something.

Cali accompanied the Magnate out to meet the King, of course. While Malvern might not have made the Zeltron nobility -- yet -- he had set her at the top of the Court of Iron as Chief Manufacturing Consultant. Close enough. And just like their little meeting, the Pink One followed Xobos in humbly bowing before Illyria's ruler. Though this time Cali stayed quiet as the Magnate of the House spoke for the residents of the House.

Of course if the King or his Consort decided to extend word or deed toward the Zeltron, Cali would happily respond. Otherwise she'd just keep smiling as Xobos directed them inside.

The beaming smile turned back to Xobos with a resounding, "Mm!" Dancing would definitely be more fun than standing out here greeting a bunch of Nobles. Like, she totally got it -- it being her idea -- but that didn't make it fun. "We'll dance, and drink, and have a wonderful night together."

Tag: Xobos Yakieer | Aymeric Rouche | Leven Jeyd | Saraya Arenais | Adron Malvern | Danielle Mueller | Rowena Arenais | Mahaut | Epistor of Phasekion | Moe Uilor | Seren Maeve | Fauvel Astier | The High Court of Illyria | Geanndra Barré

 

[Adron Malvern]

Xobos Yakieer | Cali Ziiva | Aymeric Rouche | Leven Jeyd | Saraya Arenais | Rowena Arenais | Geanndra Barré
​

There were no surprises for a man such as Adron Malvern. He did not tolerate them. It was for that reason agents such as Geanndra Barré existed, to fulfil the void of knowledge and ability that was void when the King or his Queen were not around. As they descended the ramp to the small mining town he could sense the Handmaiden's presence. Of course, she was little more than a field agent at this point. Her training was nearing its completion and soon she would have the opportunity to join her sisters, standing as one of Saraya Arenais closest companions, if the Queen selected her for the position.

As they approached the greeting party of Xobos Yakieer and Cali Ziiva the King gestured to the two. "Saraya, allow me to introduce Xobos Yakieer, the Magnate of these lands and one of my most trusted apprentices." Soon his hand swept over to the small pink Zeltron. "And in her company is Cali Ziiva. Recently appointed as the Chief Manufacturing Consultant for our world." Xobos bow was met with a gesture for her to rise. "This celebration was appropriately timed. The two of you have certainly made some strides since arriving on this world." He turned his gaze to the mansion, nodding at it with an approving gaze. His eyes turned back to the town before him, he'd noticed a different air than the one that had existed the last time he'd visited the province some time ago.

"Your lands are growing, your titles grow, however you have neglected one thing." He turned harsh eyes to his apprentice before speaking softly with an amused tone. "Do you know why Nobles marry young?" As if to display he placed a hand on Saraya's stomach symbolically. "Xobos Yakieer is very successful but for House Yakieer to truly be an official House of Illyria it will need an heir, many heirs. Something to consider as you continue to rise. It is not all about you, my apprentice, but your legacy." He offered no more words of mentorship as this was a time for celebration and he'd save his lessons for another time. "Oh...that reminds me. Later in the evening come and find me so I may present you with a gift, but after you have welcomed your guests and the event is to a settle." He told the woman before looking down to his intended.

With the greetings at an end, Adron led Saraya into the hall without a second thought. Walking into the hall was an interesting feeling. Watching his apprentice rise from her depths and grow to become a powerful Sith woman in her own right was something he could not quite explain. There was a feeling there he recognized all too well and it caused him to chuckle a bit. "I am proud of her." He said, before letting his eyes fall to his wife to be. "Lady Yakieer. I found her on a savage world wrapped in darkness and honed her into what she is today, yet her discipline and devotion have served her well. She is growing powerful." A faint thought in the back of his mind causing him to wonder. Her power was rising at speeds to outmatch Adron when he was her age. He glanced back to the Magnate and found his lips curling into a soft smile.

"The more powerful she grows the more I wonder if she will challenge my power with her own." He thought aloud as they moved through the main hall, yet his confidence was turned to Saraya. "Destroying her would be a true loss. However soon I will have a new target for her to focus her wrath upon."

"The borders of my Kingdom shall rapidly expand, quite soon." He declared.

 

[Leven Jeyd]

Location: Phare du Chateau.
Wearing: XxX.
Tagging: Xobos Yakieer ~ Cali Ziiva ~ Aymeric Rouche ~ Saraya Arenais ~ Adron Malvern

​

Leven did not mind this party that much.

These people were meaningless to her, fully inconsequential. They were a waste of time, and that usually ought to anger the skinchanger native to Nar Shadda. But if she had to give them a modicum of praise, then at least they were a pretty sight and an easy game. As far as she was concerned, most of them had nothing to offer her but amusement and since they had decided to flock like pompous peacocks into the place she called her lair, it was what she would demand from them.

Soon enough, the King and his bride made their arrival.

The changeling was intrigued by the man, and by the aura of sheer darkness that surrounded him. In fact, he held enough of the Jester's interest to warrant her attention, even if briefly. That attention would be shared by the woman by his side, Saraya Arenais . Leven had never met the previous Queen of this planet, but as the circumstances would have it she would set her eyes on the soon to be Her Majesty tonight. Another pretty face in a pretty dress, but it was easy to see there was a lot more. They were not inconsequential, and so Leven decided her antics would be best kept away from them. No, Leven did not truly care much about the monarchs, for how could her twisted nature ever allow that? But she was capable of prudency. And she would practice it tonight.

As she moved through the crowds with ease, her eyes danced from person to person. Then she felt a particular pair of eyes on her, belonging to the other one who shared her mark. Aymeric Rouche. Leven still didn't understand Xobos' desire to take on another apprentice, so she had chalked it up to a charitable moment of empathy from the Miraluka. They had taken in a stray, now it was a matter of finding out if he could learn to heel or if he'd bare his fangs.

Of course, delivering such judgement was entirely hypocritical of the Jester - but when had that ever stopped her? She was defiance and mischief made flesh, yet of course these were perfectly redeemable and remarkable qualities so long as they did not extend beyond her. She was allowed to be whatever she wanted to be. Still, she was curious about him. And curious was a very dangerous thing for Leven Jeyd to be.

Without responding to his greeting, the Jester disappeared into the sea of nobles. She walked among them, her mind clinging to the music that filled the air. Even when just walking, it was as though she was dancing along with the couples that had taken to the floors. Then, the Jester took a turn when the music demanded it as though she had had an imaginary partner. As she did, her motion took her around one of the statues, and as it ended, the Jester was standing right in front of the hunter, giving the tiny courtesy that the choreography dictated. She raised to her full height again and stopped moving as her eyes met his, as always they shone with the glint of sly playfulness but were otherwise utterly unreadable.

A glass shattered under an angry grip, and a sly smirk pulled at the creatures lips. Fun. Before any of the surrounding nobles could take notice of the young man's reaction to the King's arrival, a pale hand closed around the lapels of his suit like a pair of claws as Leven dragged him away with her back towards the cover of the statue and the pillars. The court had the eyes of an eagle, and they enjoyed nothing more than to dive down and tear at each other or anyone present for trespasses such as the little, angered stunt he had just pulled. Leven shared that trait with them.

"Now, now." She let go of him, having the kindness to pat the lapels back into place perhaps because she knew there was no way the hunter would care to do it on his own. Her voice, as always, was pleasant to the point of being repelling. Such an eerily perfect sound did not belong in the throat of a regular creature. "Don't get caught before the fun starts, Aymeric..." She was up to something, and apparently it would involve her fellow apprentice if he allowed himself to be pulled into whatever ploy was brewing in the Jester's mind.

 

[Saraya Arenais]

L O C A T I O N | Garde Noire, Phare de Chateau
W E A R I N G | {x} - {x}
T A G S | Adron Malvern - Geanndra Barré - Xobos Yakieer - Cali Ziiva - Aymeric Rouche - Leven Jeyd

Adron’s embrace was everything. If she had been concerned before, it was no longer there. If she had been worried, anxious, stressed? It all melted away the moment his arms encased her. His words would be her mantra tonight, as his presence would be her confidence. Her emerald gaze disappeared behind thick lashes as Adron placed a tender kiss on her forehead. The brief darkness would help her to savour it, to live in a moment where nothing else mattered but him.

As they stepped out from the speeder, Saraya clung to Adron’s arm. The act itself was graceful and elegant. Tonight, of all nights she could not afford to appear less than, but her fingertips still found a way to press themselves tight enough to feel his arm beneath the sleeve.

Beside her fiancé’s presence, there was some comfort knowing that they had eyes everywhere. Even now a small team of highly trained women mingled amongst the early crowd. Disasters could be prevented with the correct amount of preparation, and the handmaidens did an exemplary job. Adron had promised they would become close companions in time, but for now, they were shrouded in mystery. That veil would not be lifted until she had seen them for herself.

Their arrival was announced in a glorious fanfare, but Saraya was far more interested in the people that lay waiting beyond the threshold. The first to be introduced was Xobos. Saraya offered her a smile. “It’s a pleasure to finally meet you. I’ve heard a great many things about Adron’s apprentices. He talks of you often.” She cast a quick glance at Adron. He was far more restrained with his pride in public, that much was clear to her. Ordinarily, and as she had done so many times before, she would have followed in his step.

However, Xobos and Cali were important. Saraya did not yet command people’s loyalty and respect in the way that seemed to come naturally to him. The only way she could currently think of to gain there respect was kindness. Benevolence. She had mastered that well enough long before Adron had tainted her soul. It would be no different now.

“And you, Cali.” Saraya turned her gaze to the vision in pink and rainbow hues. Saraya had never had the opportunity to meet a Zeltron before, but she recognised now that everything she had heard was true. The two made a rather sweet couple from first glance. Saraya continued. “I can see Adron was far to restrained in his description of your beauty.” She regarded them both in turn with a respectful nod of her head. “Congratulations to you both on your new positions. I hope the night will afford us a few spare moments to get to know each other properly.”

When Adron spoke, he captured Saraya’s attention once more. It was as if everything had melted into puddles around her, and there was nothing solid but him.

The hand on her stomach prompted her to place her own there. To feel the warmth radiating from his skin as it seeped through the fine layers of her dress and set a spark of fire in her womb. She could not take her eyes from him. If there was anything she held in a similar light as her love for him, it was the idea of their legacy. Saraya was only aware that Adron had finished speaking when he began to lead her into the hall. She passed Xobos and Cali another polite smile as they left them to their duties as hostesses.

Saraya listened dutifully as he began to talk of his pride. He may not have shown it openly, but Saraya felt it from the moment they stepped out of the speeder. “You should be proud.” She commented passively. “Of her, and of yourself.” Her emerald eyes sparkled playfully as she continued. “A powerful student must be in possession of a powerful teacher.”

He began to speak of challenges, but Saraya could not imagine a world where Adron faced a challenge he could not defeat. She rose a chocolate coloured brow in response but said nothing until he had finished completely. “I highly doubt she would challenge you. It would be political suicide.” She began, taking a step closer to him while the hall was still mostly devoid of people. “From what I had seen so far, you are respected and loved as a leader. Only a fool could hope to win the hearts of the people if their hearts are already yours. And people are the backbone of a kingdom.” Saraya shot her fiancé a knowing smile.

The pensive expression on his face coupled with the determination in his amethyst eyes told Saraya all she needed to know. She took a further step forward and entwined her fingers in his. “I fear your mind is still at work, my love.” Her free hand rose to tenderly stroke the length of his chiselled jawline. “We can spend all night discussing our plans... tomorrow.” She grinned, flashing pearl white teeth beneath her painted lips. “For now, will you dance with me?”

 

[-Shelved-]

Rowena entered fashionably late. The last thing that she needed to do was some helicopter parent and be accused of not treating her daughter like an adult. So she gave Saraya Arenais the space to go to the event on her own terms. The time for her to need her mother would be later, once she became a mother of her own. No doubt that'd be happening quite quickly.

A quick glance had her spot her daughter and husband-to-be Adron Malvern straight away. Yet she didn't move to intrude. Instead she headed straight over to a server that carried a tray with red wine. Picking out a glass, Rowena took a sip and then found herself a small table to seat herself at, for it wasn't as though she was going to partake in any dancing. From there she could observe and plan.

 

[Aymeric Rouche]

Aym instinctively reached for a sword that wasn't there when The Gremlin suddenly ambushed him from out of the crowd. When his fingers found only air instead of leather wrapped wood, his mind raced over how best to answer this obvious attempt on his life. Throwing a punch was sadly the only thing his tipsy mind could think to do; however, a quick reflection on way he wasn’t currently armed caused him to back down from homicidal readiness. Instead, the hunter defaulted back to his comforting wall of anger and indignation as he gathered his thoughts on which insult to hurl at the creature this time. ‘Freak’ had gotten boring a while ago.

“What t-” Aym protested, when his fellow apprentice had the audacity to grab his suit by the lapels and start dragging him away! This was the nicest outfit he’d ever worn, and he was going to throw the creature a beating if she so much as popped a single stitch with this stunt. Thankfully, for her sake, The Gremlin has the bright idea to let him go before things were forced to get violent. He hated this party with every ounce of hatred he could muster, yet learning the feel of machine woven materials and handmade shoes, let alone ones that actually fit, made the whole circus almost worth it.

“Get off me…” the hunter hissed, stepping back and pressing against the statue after the creature had the further nerve to dust off his lapels. A shiver ran up his spine when she spoke again; it was just too weird, more proof that something unnatural lingered under that sometimes beautiful facade. “What fun? Also, it’s just Aym.” he remarked, eyes narrowing dangerously into slits. Aym hadn’t remembered telling her his full name, so he wondered if Cali had let it slip at some point. He adored that pink woman to a surprising level, even for him, but he had a feeling that she wasn’t exactly the secretive type.

Dammit all.

Circling back to what she’d said, Aym’s expression soured even further as he pondered possible interpretations of what she’d meant. The most disturbing one had him cringing and waving his hands dismissively. “No...no, just no. You’re not getting lucky with me tonight, nice dress be damned. I’m gonna walk over there and try to forget this just happened, you go over….I honestly don’t even give a damn. To Hell would be most preferred, if I have a say in things.”

With that, the hunter went to scoot away from the creature, and ease back into the search for liquor. Aym paused before he could get too far, then turned with a spiteful little grin. “If you’re feeling generous, could you turn into one of those damn wolves, and piss on the ‘king's’ shoes? It’d serve him right…”

 

[Leven Jeyd]

Location: Phare du Chateau.
Wearing: XxX.
Tagging: Xobos Yakieer ~ Cali Ziiva ~ Aymeric Rouche ~ Saraya Arenais ~ Adron Malvern

​

How incredibly delightful.

The pale gaze of the Jester was fixed on the hunter as she watched every single emotion flash through him. The hatred, the discomfort, the shock. It made her oh so very happy. There was nothing that could give her the rush that watching others squirm and struggle provided. Misery brought her joy, all the more so if she was the disturbingly beautiful cause of it. That bright spark in her white eyes seemed to increase in intensity, her lips sporting a little, vile smirk that would have been an ear-to-ear grin had Leven not willfully supressed it.

She had not expected the young man to interpret her complete disregard and lack of respect for his personal space as an advance on him, but now that she had witnessed his reaction the evil little fiend that was the changeling would never forget it. It was another button to push, and Leven would not stop until she had found every single one of his.

"Getting lucky? Too little too late, dear Aym," The changeling's voice was just as smooth and airy as before, "If I had gotten lucky then Master would have chosen a prettier plaything for me. Alas, you will have to do~ " She flashed him a little grin that lasted but a second before her expression went back into it's amused smirk. "Now, I would gladly bend over backwards for your every request but I'm afraid we have places to be," The sarcasm was delivered with the sweetest of tones, even adding a slight tinge of theatrical regret as though she was truly sorry she could not comply to his wishes. Mockery, after all, was another thing the changeling lived for.

It was then that she followed, waltzing right after the young man. Her arm snaked around his as she moved right next to his side not unlike the many noble couples that surrounded them, blending them into the crowd and not missing the chance to push his boundaries. Although of course, there was nothing noble about this pair - at least certainly not about Leven. She leaned in to whisper in his hear, as though they were two smitten confidants, "Please do not tell me you truly prefer the company of these blubbering fools to my own, you would break my heart."

She had attacked him, gotten a wookie to shoot at him, and it was as plain as day that there was still an endless well of other antics to put up with but event then, Leven felt quite confident about the fact that Aym would find those antics more tolerable than standing in a stuffed room with pompous, useless buffoons and the King he held such endearing feelings for. In the end, Leven was toying with him, yes, but she was also presenting an offer she knew would be tempting enough. Leaving the party.

 

[Xobos Yakieer]

Location: Garde Noire, Phara de Chateau
Dress: Picked out by the pink
Time of day: Evening
Tags: | Cali Ziiva | Aymeric Rouche | Leven Jeyd | Saraya Arenais | Adron Malvern | | Rowena Arenais | Mahaut | Epistor of Phasekion | | Seren Maeve | Fauvel Astier | @The High Court of Illyira |

Who knew greeting could be so….tiring.

Also, the next time they hosted a party, Xobos would be the one to last look over the guest list. There was far, far too many people in her manor, and Xobos knew like…maybe a quarter of them. She was half expecting the entire court of iron to walk in at any moment. Cali had probably done this so she could rub elbows or so that the pink one could start making connections. A noble, and probably correct idea all on it’s own, Xobos wasn’t exactly…adept at being a party host, and there was quite a lot of people here. Plenty of connections that she could mess up just by being here.

Everything seemed to be going to plan, however. The little carpool area that they had set up was flowing smoothly, and it didn’t take horribly long for all of the guests to arrive. The list was crossing itself out, and most all of the people that said they would be there seemed to be arriving in a fashionably normal to fashionably late time. At least they wouldn’t have many no shows on this night. As socially inept as she could be, she was happy this night seemed to be going well enough.

“Seems like we’re almost done being the door greeters..” She mused, half to herself and half to the pink thing wrapped tightly around her arm. The line of speeders had slowed to a trickle, and what was left of the list could reasonably be considered as not coming at this point. “perhaps it’s time to head inside. I’m honesty getting pretty hungry, and I heard that chef had quite the menu planned for tonight.” Pulling Cali close, knowing fully well that the Zeltron had the biggest hand in planning the menu for the night, she planted a kiss upon the other’s forehead. Just as Xobos started to turn to head inside, the lights of a speeder could be seen in the distance, giving her pause.

Ah, what was one more speeder, pausing her entrance back into the manor to greet whomever was pulling up. Her brow furrowed for just a moment upon seeing it was once again, someone she didn’t know, but swiftly put on her best host face to welcome them to the party. It was a taller man, more rugged looking, and didn’t as nice of as a dress as most all in the rest of the party. “Welcome to the celebration, Mr…” Xobos’ voice trailed off, hoping that whomever this was would swiftly fill her in in just who he was.

“Yunis Wente. Sieur of montagne d’or, and…” His eyes fell upon Xobos, and there was a hatred, anger behind them that Xobos only noticed for a quick moment before it disappeared to be concealed by a healthy amount of respect. Fake, or forced, she couldn’t figure, but the true emotion did not leave the Magnate’s mind. “A new neighbor, to your expanded..providence. I’m overjoyed to make your acquaintance.” His eyes shifted to cali, his smile falling slightly as he did so. “Both of you.” With a bow, he disappeared in to the manor, quick enough that Xobos was not able to get any sort of word in by what he meant. Regardless, their interaction left a sour taste in her mouth.

It seemed as though they were finished now, and whether or not Xobos really wanted to follow the man to the party, there weren’t any more people to greet to distract from that. “I suppose it’s time to hit the dance floor.” She turned to Cali, forcing a smile despite her mind clearly still being on the man, and started to tug her toward the entrance toward the manor, then to the ballroom within. Perhaps a night of dancing, drink and closeness with her pink would help her forget whatever had just happened.

 

[Cali Ziiva]

Location: Garde Noire, Phara de Chateau
Dress: For Her Cutey

Cali stood patiently before her smile widened with Adron introducing her to the woman that might be Queen soon. It was so nice to meet people! Not that her cutey was terribly thrilled at the idea. Well, the Miralukan had been a bit sheltered. All that time spent training with a small group -- usually one other -- with most other sentients tools, obstacles, or targets rather than, you know, people to converse with. Very focused training on becoming stronger in the Force and in a word aloof. Untouchable would probably be the preferred way to describe it. With Cali being something of an aberration to that plan. So tonight would be good for Xobos. Time to make sure the other Nobles knew this province should be ignored at their own peril.

Naturally the Pink One grinned with Saraya being so generous with her compliments. "Oh, thank you. You look absolutely gorgeous tonight. That dress is just perfect on you." Well, yes, a Zeltron would have gone with something more vibrant, but Cali had learned most off-worlders didn't see colors the same way the Pink People did. Sometimes she wondered if what a Zeltron perceived as pink was what a Human did.

When the royal pair slipped off, Xobos and her were left to greet the remainder of arrivals. Cali smiled and merrily welcomed each one. Behind the smile however she was thinking about a certain matter. One Cali hadn't quite thought of before. Seemed a tad odd, but also made perfect sense on both sides of the issue. What should she do about, well, Xobos' inheritance? Even Zeltron liked having little ones running around without a care in the world. She couldn't keep that from the Miralukan but at the same time... It just didn't sit well with Cali knowing Adron was taking a personal interest in the matter. It worried the Zeltron.

"Mm, well, we can't stay out here all night," Cali agreed in good humor. "Your guests will wonder why they came all this way." She leaned forward to turn and look back at Xobos before giving her cutey a wink. Parties needed their host to wander around keeping people engaged. Especially when they came from far off. Else they'd have gone to a closer party. This one was for them and it would undercut the evening's affair if they slipped away.

Like a pair of apprentices were trying to do.

A quick blink and Cali straightened up to follow the cutey's gaze toward a speeder approaching them. It didn't take long before another guest arrived. Sieur of Montagne d'Or. The Pink woman continued to smile even as she mentally mapped where the visiting Noble was from in her head. New neighbor indeed. They may be a Sieur at a distance, but Cali had mapped out the surrounding rivals to Xobos' claim. Who better to try something underhanded than a neighbor? Anyone else would be forced to deal with the fallout of leap-frogging about, which would cause Nobles to cry about an attempt to squeeze them out.

"Xoxo," Cali turned to face her love, "not all of these people are your friends now, and some probably never will be." Her free hand crossed to enclose Xobos' hand between both of her own. "But you don't need to worry about them. What you need to do tonight is show people that you and Garde Noire are here, they aren't going anywhere, and if these people care at all about Illyria or themselves they'll establish good Court relations because you're more than Adron's Sith Apprentice. You're a rising star of the Court that already has the King's ear, and they'd be fools not to dote on you."

"So, be yourself, and remember I'll be right there beside you." Cali stretched forth to give her cutey a soft kiss before they retired inside to the party.

"Or in front of you since we're dancing. Oh," a small smile graced her lips, "did you prepare a speech?" Why shouldn't Cali be enjoying this? Even if it was at Xobos' expense, the cutey would benefit from it in the long-run. A little nuisance today for a major pay off in the not too distant future.

Tags: Aymeric Rouche | Leven Jeyd | Saraya Arenais | Adron Malvern | Rowena Arenais | Mahaut | Epistor of Phasekion | Seren Maeve | Fauvel Astier | The High Court of Illyria

 

[Adron Malvern]

Saraya Arenais | Leven Jeyd | Xobos Yakieer | Cali Ziiva | Rowena Arenais | Aymeric Rouche
​

Dancing. It had been dancing that brought Saraya and Adron together and now in this moment the two took to the dance floor together. The King held a hand out for his Queen, smiling softly at the feeling of her hand placed within his. His free hand fell to the small of her back as he urged her close to him. It was always a comforting place with his lover pressed close to him. It allowed the politics, the work, and the stress that surrounded him to momentarily fade away until there was only her.

"I believe you are right, my dear." He agreed with her words as they fell into the rhythm of those dancing around them. Slowly his senses began to wash over those around him. He could sense the myriad of emotions from a crowd such as this and they caused his lips to curl into a knowing smile. There were several unique spirits in attendance to the ball and there were even a few who seemed to hold the new Magnate in a light of challenge. Now that was an amusing thought.

"It seems our Magnate will have her fill of competition. It is no easy task to survive this world. Where everyone is your enemy and friends come with a cost." He considered the words before releasing a light-hearted chuckle from his lips. "Such is the duty of the Nobility, to compete."

"Xobos is a powerful young Sith Lady and her powers are impressive but she had much to learn about the truth of the Aristocracy. Her house is a Knightly one because she exudes those qualities best connected with the Knighthood, but it is hard for a Knight to progress as a Lord. If she is to truly excel she must prove herself in a field that is entirely foreign to her, political cunning." He glanced down to his wife to be only to realize that he was prattling on. Adron was not a talkative man by any stretch of the imagination, however when it came to Saraya he was able to enjoy a certain release where his relaxation lulled him into pleasant conversation.

"Which reminds me. I've decided to give your mother a gift of lands and a title. After all it is technically her who we have to thank your this wonderful union. I have yet to decide what lands or what title to bestow upon her. I thought you could help me with such a decision." He said before his eyes glanced about the room, scanning it so briefly before turning his eyes back to Saraya. "In time. First the wedding and then I think a honeymoon somewhere warm and quiet." He considered the options before shrugging a bit. "Plenty of time to make a decision. I will take you anywhere in the stars you wish to go. It will be just us and plenty of time to enjoy one another." As his eyes moved about the crowd, they did eventually find Rowena Arenais which caused him to chuckle softly. "Well. Speaking of your mother she has arrived. Would you care to go and see her my love?" He asked.

 

[Saraya Arenais]

L O C A T I O N | Garde Noire, Phare de Chateau
W E A R I N G | {x} - {x}
T A G S | Adron Malvern - Rowena Arenais - Geanndra Barré - Xobos Yakieer - Cali Ziiva - Aymeric Rouche - Leven Jeyd

Taking his hand, they glided onto the dance floor together. In perfect time to the music, just as it had been at the masquerade. Though the moments of closeness they shared were no longer rare, Saraya still treasured each one as though it were their first and last. Smiling at his words, she watched as the stresses of a King melted from his face. What was left in place was an unadulterated Adron. The man who held her heart in the palm of her hand. The man who could command her soul with a single glance.

Though he may have assumed himself to be rambling, Saraya loved nothing more than the sound of his voice. If she had the ability, it would be all she listened too. “I’m sure she’ll excel at the task.” She commented on Xobos when Adron paused to glance down at her. “She already seems to have surpassed your expectations as an apprentice, and by all accounts, she was far from it when you found her.” Saraya reached up to stroke his jawline with the back of her hand. “I think you’ll be surprised by her capability, just as you were then.”

At the mention of her mother, Saraya could not help but smile softly. Only to follow it up with soft tinkling laughter. “You’ll make her year, I’m sure. I would be glad to help you decide, I doubt I would hear the end of it if I refused you.” Not that she ever would.

When he spoke of a honeymoon, her smile stretched until it shone in the pits of her emerald eyes. “We could honeymoon on a barren asteroid for all I care, as long as you were by my side.” The dance drew them close, and she took the chance to steal a kiss from him. “I do love the sound of warm and quiet, but I’m banning all comms. Wherever we go, you're entirely mine for the entire trip.” She teased lightly, a smirk playing on her lips. Adron’s gaze travelled the room, but Saraya did not follow it. There wasn’t a single soul in the galaxy who could have stolen her attention from him now. Except maybe…

A soft pout formed on her lips, and she allowed her head to lull against his shoulder. “No.” She protested in a quiet whisper against his suit, in a private moment that she hoped would remain as such. Of course, she wanted to see her mother. Between herself and Adron, they owed her a great debt for orchestrating all of this. However, Saraya wanted to stay in this moment far more. When she pulled her head up again, she released a gentle sigh. The music was already beginning to fade out, replaced by the beginnings of a new one. “Yes, we probably should.” She corrected herself, in a far more confident and smooth tone as her hand fell to wrap around his.

Leading them away from the slowly growing crowd of dancers, Saraya headed toward Rowena Arenais . When the couple reached her, Saraya released Adron’s hand to embrace her properly. “Good evening, Mama.” She said as she placed a gentle kiss upon each of her cheeks. “You look beautiful.”

 

[-Shelved-]

Rowena watched Saraya Arenais and Adron Malvern as they danced. Of course it was easy for her to pick them out, as she always had a doting eye for her daughter. And it couldn't be more perfect that the two of them were in love. It made things a heck of a lot easier. One could almost think that Rowena had them drink some kind of a love potion or whatever other nonsense was in fairytales. However that wasn't the case. It was all about timing and getting the right pieces of the game board in place.

With her wine glass in hand, she hugged her daughter back, putting on her usual smile of appreciation. "Why thank you Sara dear, I do strive for perfection. And you both look absolutely wonderful together." Rowena sipped her wine, studying the pair all the more. "It is a lovely little party. But don't let me stop you two from enjoying yourselves." The night was young and she needed them to continue their blossoming romance. And who could do that with their mother present? No one. If anything she was a deterrent.