What Summer Things do in Winter (CIS Winter Social)

[Ascendant Resolve]

​

The end of the Common Galactic Cycle draws near. And with it, the Winter cycle on many planets. Some see this as a chance to join together in celebration. Another cycle lived, another host of happy memories and fruitful business ventures. For the first time since its liberation, Vylmira seeks to join the ranks of worlds fortunate enough to celebrate the coming of winter, and has invited the Confederacy to a grand gala spanning nearly the entire planet. Far to the north, on the edge of the polar regions, rests the fortress of Winterhaven. It is here that a select few are summoned at the behest of Vylmira to join in a night of song and dance, food and drink. For it is by their trial and sacrifice that such gatherings are possible.​

​

Councilor Daejin has prepared a wonderful gathering for the guests of Winterhaven, opening the halls to a vast array of pastimes and pleasantries. For the night, the fortress of Winterhaven is open to the Confederacy, in a gathering to celebrate yet another year. A time to forget wars and strife, and to enjoy the company of one’s brothers and sisters, be it blood, bond, or arms. So come one. Come all. Dance the night away under the brilliant starry sky of Vylmira. To another good year, and many more like it.​

​

​

The Grand Hall of Winterhaven has been decorated for the occasion, invoking a cold wintery night, yet with all the warmth and charm of a cozy family gathering. Half the grand room is dotted with tables and food, with selections suiting every taste and appetite. Drink flows in abundance on a night such as this, dispensed by the wait staff milling about the hall. What space is not taken by tables is consumed in dance, live musicians setting the tempo from lively swing to intimate waltz. But the fun doesn’t end here….​

​

​

In the courtyards of Winterhaven lies the great Crystal Gardens, which shine and glimmer brilliantly in the artificial light. A calm and quiet destination, the Gardens are the perfect spot for those seeking to escape the din of the grand hall for a more quiet and reserved setting. Amidst the stars fallen from the sky, one will find tranquility beyond measure, in spite of the bitter cold the elements bestow.​

​

​

In true winter fashion, deals have been brokered with animal trainers to offer a rare commodity on Vylmira. Beast drawn sleighs are available to tour the area surrounding Winterhaven, in the trees and paths that wind through the foothills. The Sleighs are loaded with heavy blankets to assist in the endeavour of keeping warm, but a coat is still highly recommended. ​

​

​

​

Near the entrance to Winterhaven, a small fish pond has frozen over. Not one to pass up an opportunity such as this, Councilor Daejin has arranged for the pond to be designated an ice skating rink. Not too far from the warm glow of the Great Hall, the pond is surrounded with a number of vendors offering an array of treats appropriate to the weather.​

​

​

​

Winterhaven is a vast place, and perhaps the oldest building on the planet. Should you find the other offerings lacking, one might find exploring the fortress a more intriguing option. Winterhaven is yours to peruse for the night. From the tallest towers to the deepest library. All are welcome to this night of celebration...​

Spoiler: Tags

@A'Runda
[SIZE=11pt][member="Adelle Bastiel"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Alden Akaran"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Alkor Centaris"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt]@Ari Riggs[/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Ashara Evanaris"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Beric Layne"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Bullwark"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="BX-1335"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Amelia von Sorenn"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Aston Jacobs"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Aya Clarke"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Caesar Kenway"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Corvus Dravere"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Credius Nargath"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Cypher Raige"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Damsy Callat"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Darth Tacitus"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Daxton Bane"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Destroyer 2873"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Erin Tenel"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Eli-Mae Forrest"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Fawn Alzi"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt]@Faye Irithiel[/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Faye Malvern"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Felurian Malvern"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Gerwald Lechner"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Havoc (CT-375)"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Holt"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="IG-65A"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Ingrid L'lerim"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Ithiel Vi'Dreya"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Jayce Pryde"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Jenmae Ophiro"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt]@Joannis Campbell[/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="John Locke"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Jorge"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Josh Dragonsflame"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Jyoti Nooran"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Karlie Lynn Destat"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Kasca Fen"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Kathryn Foster"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Kayla Wylen"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Kiff Brayde"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Kingsley"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Krystal Estain"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Kurayami Bloodborn"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Kurenai Yumi"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Kyber"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Kyrinov"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Lirka Ka"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Luna Terrik"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Luna Vega"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Lyla Quinn"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Maani"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Maple Harte"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Maria Savilia"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Maur"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Mauer"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Muad Dib"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Nine Lives"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Oax Ordo"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Petra Cavataio"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Pom Stych Tivé"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Qaarssk Roark"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="R4-AUD"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Razelle Breuner"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Roy Americus"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Rylan Kordel"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="SC-A1"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Sor-Jan Xantha"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Srina Talon"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Startorn"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Subject 73 Red"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Talon Rahl"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Thalliesin Bard"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="ToKola Bakari"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Teyla Riggs"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Tess Valnora"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Vanric Dannon"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Veronika Fleischer"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Visanj T'shkali"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Voph"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Vyra Silara"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Vyse Valorous"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Vytal Noctura"][/SIZE]
[SIZE=11pt][member="Willow Fae"][/SIZE]

 

[Kyyrk]

OBJECTIVE: Socialize and Host​

WEARING: This​

TAGS: None Yet....​

​

Winter was beginning to fall on Vylmira. Voph, in anticipation of the party, had spent the week prior in the halls of Winterhaven, assisting Councilor Daejin in overseeing preparations. This was, to Voph's memory, the first time he'd ever been this involved in a party such as this. Typically his duties with the Sphere had commanded all his attention in the past. But as he stood in his private quarters in the grand fortress, Voph couldn't help but feel...strange. He didn't know what he was feeling, exactly. But that was of no matter. Guests would begin arriving shortly. Voph began to don the armor selected for the evening, and making sure that his dark hair was groomed to perfection.

As he strode into the great hall, lightsabers resting on his hips, Voph sought out Councilor Daejin, and moved to her location. For all intents and purposes, Daejin was the host of the night. It was, after all, her home that had been opened to them. Unlike Voph, however, Daejin opted for the simple robe of a Vylmiran Councilor. A dazzling sight, to one attuned to the Force, but a rather drab thing to the common eye. "Councilor. I'd like to thank you again for opening your home on such an occasion. Public though it may be already."

Daejin offered a simple smile of thanks. Her demeanor was as wintry and aloof as the weather beyond the walls, but it was her way. Voph found her to be a rather kind and compassionate individual, even if she did not express it openly. "Of course, High Councilor. It is an honor to host a gathering such as this. Please, go enjoy your time. You've done enough." Voph smirked at this. He knew Daejin's dirty little secret of how excited she had been to open Winterhaven to their Confederate allies, and yet she had little interest in partaking in the party. She was always the more politically minded of the two, and so she had taken it upon herself to entertain the various politicians from other planets, allowing Voph a moment of respite to enjoy the party.

As Voph turned to survey the room, he found himself wondering if...No. She was busy. And moreover, she wasn't a Confederate citizen. Voph felt himself frowning slightly at the notion. No matter. Voph flagged down a serving droid and collected a mug of ale before moving to the edge of the dance floor. It was empty, for the most part, populated mostly by conversing individuals about its edges, and one or two brave souls already swaying in time with each other. Voph sighed quietly to himself. Another year gone, and another yet to come. As he raised his mug to his lips, he found himself thinking the same sobering thought that had always haunted him this time of year.

Happy Birthday, Voph....

 

[Subject 73 Red]

Objective: Try to relax, have fun, try not to kill, injure, or main anybody
Open

Red arrived at the front doors of the fortress. It was massive. Someone could get lost in there for days. It seemed as if it could also survive a massive siege. This fortress wasn't going anywhere anytime soon. With the sheer size and probably the amount of passageways, any attackers would most likely get lost. It also seemed prone to robbery and theft and...

Red shook those thoughts out of his head. He was here to have fun! To enjoy himself! Not to think about war and make up battle plans or escape routes or strategies or..

Bah! It happened again! Well, Red couldn't help it. He was engineered for that stuff. Physically. The entire reason why he was created was to be good at that sort of stuff. His genetic code was actually suited to warfare.

Ah well, maybe Red could learn from somebody else on how to relax. He approached the doors. He flashed an I.D. to a guard, and was allowed entrance to the fortress.

He stepped inside. it was even bigger on the inside. The entrance hall itself was huge, extravagant, and far too shiny. Seriously, who needed that many fancy and expensive things and precious items? It was ridiculous! Even the walls seemed to reflect light and shine and gleam. What was even the purpose for all of these fancy items? Red saw no tactical value in them. Who would spend so much money on these useless items? At least it was warm in here. Well, warmer than the outside at least.

Anyway, Red walked further into the entrance hall. There stood a servant of some kind, apparently there to direct traffic and partygoers.

"Welcome to Winterhaven!" The servant said to Red. "We have a large assortment of things for you to do here! We have a feast, you can go to the gardens. take a sleigh ride, go to the skating pond, or do whatever you want!" The servant said.

Red nodded. Interesting. Red had never participated in these "winter activities" before. A party in the winter and freezing cold temperatures was far different from parties at any other time of year. He still remembered another CIS party he had been invited too, the one on board the C.S.S. Caleuche, near Omwat and Adras. It was definitely... interesting, to say the least. Hopefully this one would go better.

"Right... I guess I'll head to the feast first." Red said after thinking about it. A good, solid place to start.

The servant nodded and pointed him in the right direction. Red walked off and headed to the feast. When he entered the grand hall, he was stunned. There was food everywhere. Tables filled with food and drinks filled some of the room, while the rest was open to the partygoers to have fun. Red could spot musicians. There was just a ton of food, with a large variety. Everything in the room looked incredibly fancy, and Red didn't exactly blend in with the theme. He was still wearing his armor, without his helmet. He left it behind, he didn't need it. So, his bright red hair stuck out like a sore thumb, easily noticeable, especially with all of the light in the room. Maybe he could have dressed better, and at least tried to look fancy. Red didn't know how to, though. He wasn't exactly the sociable type, and didn't really understand "normal" customs.

There wasn't really a lot of people around. He was fairly early to the party. Soon, though, Red guessed that a lot of people would be arriving.

He looked around, wondering where to start with all of the tables of food, dancing, and basically social interaction.

 

[Malok]

Location: Winterhaven, Vylmira
Tag: [member="Valencia Hadley"]
Wearing: xxx

A time to Celebrate...

Though the worlds moved at their own pace and tempo, this time was always devoted to joy. From the darkest depths of the Sith territories to the brightest corners of Tython - winter was a time to celebrate. Most would look upon this time as an opportunity to share their feelings one to another. To show their love through the exchange of gifts. To show they cared by making trips across the stars to fulfill the promise: I'll be home for Life Day. Most of all, it was a time to give thanks for that which one had. The reality of the Galaxy was that tomorrow is not promised to anyone. Thus, whilst one yet lived, winter was the perfect time to be grateful. The perfect chance to give thanks.

A cycle ago, the Vicelord would have agreed with this mentality.

A mere year prior, he would have been among the first to gather together his friends and loved ones as chill gripped the southern systems. In those days, despite the conflict which roiled about the stars, the man had found some degree of happiness. Though they did not all reside under one roof, he and his children had never been closer. He and his extended family were on the best of terms. No matter where Darth Metus looked, he was satisfied. He had plenty to be grateful for. Plenty to indulge in the spirit of the holidays for. This year had been a far cry from it. It was hard to believe that so much had transpired in such a minimal span of time.

Yet, as the chill began to race throughout the Galaxy, the Sith desired nothing more than to tarry within the comfortable confines of his offices. With strong drink in hand, he could let this time of year slip past - confident that he would make things better when the next cycle made its way through. However. Pure happenstance saw his itinerary change. As he settled in for a metaphorical hybernation, the Vicelord found a notice on his datapad. A missive from one who offered insight frequently - but one he had not seen physically in months. Despite this, the Councilor's contact was a welcome interruption to his mood.

She spoke of the coming festivities, particularly one on Vylmira, where his presence had been requested. Were it not for her insistence during their correspondence, he might not have gone. But. The chance to see the one he relied upon for that human perspective outweighed an escape at the bottom of a bottle. Thus, as the fortress of Winterhaven opened its doors to a select few, Darth Metus found himself in the middle of winter. And frankly, he was not built for the cold. Yes, his form was garbed with a sufficient amount of layers to save off the chill. Yes, the activity before his gaze promised additional warmth from the frigid breezes. But, overall, Darth Metus was simply a creature of hotter environments.

From Mandalore to Geonosis, he could stare down stifling temperatures with little complaint. Yet, as the howling cold bit at his flesh...it became abundantly clear that cold certainly was not his element of choice. Regardless, with gloved hands rubbing furiously against one another, he patiently awaited the arrival of a beast-drawn sleigh. The Councilor, [member="Valencia Hadley"], stood by his side - complete with a basket in her arms for the trip. If this was to be anything like those times long past, he assumed a bottle of Idlewil would be within. Or, at the very least, something with an alarming alcohol content.

"Does it ever get this cold on Manda?" he inquired, speaking from behind his scarf. As his slightly muffled words escaped as a plume of white, the clatter of hooves reached his ears. Mighty... reindeer like creatures came to a halt before them, pulling a vibrant sleigh upon the snow. In true, gentleman fashion, the Sith extended his hand so that the Councilor may board first before settling in the seat beside her. Thank the gods there were thick blankets present for their usage, else the breeze in their faces would have been unbearable. As the sleigh began to move, Darth Metus raised his chin in the direction of the basket.

"Alright, what's the big secret? Spice?"

He must have thought he was clever, for he began laughing all the way.

 

[Prennis Keeoli]

​

{ Location: Winterhaven main hall }​

{ Wearing: Dress }​

{ Tag: [member="Voph"] }​

~ † ~​

Most years since she first interned as a doctor on First Imperial Medical Station Mountbatten, Prennis made herself scare socially during the winter months of the Standard Cycle. It wasn’t because she hated the slew of typically-cold-weather holidays; on the contrary, she loved them so much that one of the gifts she had taken to giving was time off to her coworkers and healing to those in need. Sometimes she was forced to take the holidays for herself, more since she had defected. In those cases, she would volunteer at a local clinic or shelter instead, but this year she made an exception. She needed them this time to get her effects and personal business in order before she met with the Master of the Halls of Healing and submitted her official resignation.

And so here she found herself, a planet she had not before visited him on, to see to...something she hoped wasn't an ending of whatever it was they had.

As warm air raised goosebumps on exposed skin, she let out a breath she hadn't known she was holding and, for a moment, her teeth chattered in the large entryway. Still, she moved further inside and out of the way of a crowd of other guests coming in out of the cold. "Welcome to Winterhaven, ma'am," a valet, approaching from the inner Hall, began. "May I?" He stopped near and outstretched his arms for her peacoat, which she graciously surrendered.

"Thank you very much." After a flashed smile and a tip of credit change loose in her clutch, she made her own way into the Great Hall. Waitress and waiter were weaving in and out of the scatterings of a cohesive crowd, all with a tray in or on their hands, or underneath their arms, all in various degrees of use. An aproned woman passed by with a dish full of glasses, some empty and others not. "I'll take one." Prenn reached over carefully when the woman paused in acknowledgement and retrieved some sort of peppermint and white chocolate cocktail. She took a cursory sip - that couldn't be good for her, what with as much sugar as she tasted, but just for the holiday spirit - before standing on her toes and straining to look over the gathered.

"Excuse me, but may I be of further assistance?"

Prennis dropped down to her feet, careful not to spill the drink from the glass cradled in her palm, and turned around. The valet had caught up with her. "Yes, sir. I'm looking for the host."

 

[Saraya Arenais]

​

[member=Seren]
Location: Feasting Hall - Vylmira
Wearing: The Little Red One​

For almost all her life, Willow had assumed snow to be a falsity. What she couldn’t see with her own eyes surely shouldn’t exist. It was almost laughable, the idea of it being so cold that rain froze over in the sky and could cover an entire planet in a white blanket. She’d never seen it in Hutt Space anyway, that was for sure. So, when their ship finally docked and Seren opened the door for her, Willow was taken completely by surprise. Of course, the first thing that hit her was just how cold it really was. Almost the instant the door slid open an icy breeze stung at her cheeks and bit at the tips of her fingers. All Willow could do was wrap her arms around her middle to hold back the shivers.

‘You never said it would be this cold.’ Of course, Seren had mentioned what it took to make snow. It was just that Willow had never thought about what an entire planet filled with frozen water would feel like. Oh well. He had promised her a magical night in a winter wonderland, whatever that was, and looking out across the picturesque scenery it certainly seemed like he would keep to it. Before stepping out into the fresh snow, Willow turned her head up to glance at the wolf. ‘I think… Something warm to drink first. Then maybe we can take one of those sleigh things you’ve been going on about all morning.’ An enamoured grin was flashed in his direction before she left the comfort of the well heated ship.

The moment the frigid breeze whipped up the edges of her thick fur cloak, Willow almost high tailed it back into the ship. Luckily Seren had mentioned the feasting hall wouldn’t be too far from where they landed, and as the breeze mustered enough mercy to die down for a few moments, Willow heard the tell-tale sounds of merriment.

-----------​

Inside the feasting hall, Willow found herself breath taken. When she’d first entered the first few seconds were spent dusting off the fresh layer of snow that rained down from the clouds above, she hadn’t noticed the room in front of her. The minute her cloak had been swept from her shoulders the Little Spider finally got her first glimpse of a life day celebration. Her jaw dropped. A thousand shimmering gold lights bathed the entire hall in a warm yellow glow. Shades of silver, red and a green joined the bright hue in a dazzling display of opulence. Willow had never seen such beauty. ‘Wow…’

It was funny to think that her attire was overdoing it, in comparisson to the feasting hall Willow felt she had underdone it a touch. Seren had recently gifted her a rather fantastic piece of clothing. He had a taste for the finer things in life, whereas Willow had always been a little more on the simple side. When he’d first presented her with the dress, she had assumed she would never get a chance to wear it. Such soft, hand-crafted silks wouldn’t survive a minute in the rough and tumble of life, but she had tried it on for him there and then regardless. The minute the shimmering black material had settled against her skin, Seren had told her to give him a twirl, so she did. The minute her feet completed their third turn, the edges of the dress caught in a flame brighter than the colour of her hair. Willow had panicked and tried to put the flame out, but when she reached out to touch them, she found the fire was cold. Where it had crept up the dress was no longer made from fine black silk but dazzling red lace.

Willow had been delighted.

She still was. Besides the fact that the dresses themselves were beautiful, the gift was ingenious. She had spent several hours preparing for the life day party by spinning in front of the mirror. Watching the flames turn the dress from black, to red, to white and back again. In the end, she had settled on the bright red dress and had hoped and prayed that it wouldn’t be too cold on Vylmira. It was… but now they were in the hall that was hardly an issue. A great roaring fire spread an immeasurable amount of heat throughout the room, and Willow was beyond grateful for it. ‘Food first? Or maybe we could get a closer look at the tree…’ Her off-hand idly flicked toward the towering tree in the corner of the room, dressed to the nines in beautifully crafted decorations that hung from the branches, twinkling in the firelight. ‘What do you think?’ Willow asked as she looped her arm around his to inch them further inside.

 

[Kathryn Foster]

Location: Grand Hall, by the drinks table​

Attire: Grey cardigan, white slim-fit top, blue denim trousers, tan boots with a bit of a heel, silver necklace of denonian heritage.​

Tags: Open!​

​

''Winterhaven''.

The Confederacy stronghold well enough made up for its suitable name. Anyone that stepped outside its thick protecting walls, were met by the cold crisp air that dominated the northern regions of Vylmira. If you took a look around, the sight of towering mountains were as breathtaking as it was alluring for anyone that favoured a ski down any of its snow covered tops. If you stepped away from the festivities in the Great Hall, you could hear the occasional gusts of wind pushing though the mountain passes. In all its great appearance, Winterhaven laid nestled between and now open for all the guests that needed a warm meal and something to drink. Curious as she was, she had been given a short story of the strongholds history while being served with her coat by the enterance.

-----​

''Thanks.''

Kathy gave the waiter a heartily smile, as he finished pouring up a warm egg and chocolate-based drink in a glass cup. The warm feel to the cup in her hands and the sweet scent from the beverage were very inviting after the short yet chilly walk outside.

She turned around and could not help but to once again admire the decorations in the spacious hall. On the walls, up in the roof and on the tables - everywhere there were decorations adding to the ambiance to the celebration of the years last holiday. She realy enjoyed this time of the year. If she had to choose one holiday to keep, this was the one.

A soft smile spread on her lips as she tasted the sweet choclatey drink, then glanced around the crowd that slowly grew bigger and filled the hall with a cozy buzz. While some guests wore colorful dresses, due to her intention to also enjoy the outdoors, she had opted for a more comfortable yet tidy attire matching the season. Her ash blonde, newly cut hair were sat up in a thick ponytail.

 

[Subject 73 Red]

Objective: Try to enjoy the party
Tags: [member="Kathryn Foster"]

Red looked through the food options laid out on tables. They seemed to have everything. Everything was made to look as pleasant as possible. The taste was probably made to be powerful yet pleasant. And the smell... It was extreme. Because of Red's enhanced senses, everything hit him like a speeder bike hit him head-on. It was overwhelming, to say the least. His senses were overloaded from the amount of stuff that was made to be extremely appealing. He would just have to adjust if he was going to make it through the party.

He looked through the options, when he noticed someone. Someone he recognized. Colonel Kathryn Foster. He had worked with her before, on a couple of assignments. Their interactions were... varying. But, they somehow managed to work fairly well together. He hadn't expected to see her here. She didn't seem like the type of person to come to this sort of things, from what Red could tell. Then again, Red was here, and he most definitely didn't seem like the type of person to come to these sort of things.

"Colonel Foster? Is that you?" Red called out.

He approached where she was. "Hello again, ma'am. I haven't seen you in a while." He said. He stood at attention and saluted, then dropped it. It was his standard greeting, and for all others in the military. You had to do it when greeting a commanding officer. And Kathryn was no different. She was a colonel, and she outranked him.

 

[Gerwald Lechner]

​

Location: Crystal Gardens
Objective: Introspection
Wearing: xxx
Tag: N/A, Open

Gerwald was not one to attend the social gatherings which the Confederacy put on. He could count on one hand how many of these he had attended since he joined the ranks of the Knight's Obsidian, and he could vividly remember the last social even he had attended. He had been forced to attend, forced to dress nice, and his partner for the evening had rewarded him for his effort. In truth it had simply been her excuse to force Gerwald to get out of his own head. The brooding wolf had made terrible decisions, ones he had still been paying for dearly by that night. Perhaps his greatest sin was carrying the burdens of things he could not control on his shoulders. [member="Naedira Darcrath"] had tried telling him as much that night as she had handed him the fruity cocktail he only sipped before stealing her whiskey.

That had been the night the two of them danced on the mezzanine, pulled away from the cares Gerwald had on his mind. It had been the night Gerwald found himself apologizing for being absent on Eshan. He could have kept her safe, but she had insisted Gerwald did not need the images of bloodshed in his mind. He chuckled at the thought Naedira wanted to spare a warrior and trained killer images of bloodshed. It was even more comical that she wanted to spare a wolf, a predator, the gruesome picture of death. Gerwald sighed as the memory of the last ball played in his mind. His breath was visible as the heavy exhale pushed from his lungs at an alarming rate. The billow of frozen vapor made it appear as though the lupine may have been smoking, but no such thing would ever be true about Gerwald. He was simply lost on the one thought which had dominated that night.

It was the night Gerwald knew he loved Naedira Darcrath.

He pulled the heavy coat around his chest. Despite being raised on Stewjon which experienced all four seasons, it had been some time since Gerwald stood out among the cold. His hair was pulled up into a messy bun, and his beard was bit more full for the winter months. He was a wolf after all, and a winter coat was what kept him warm in the snow. The gardens were peaceful, a place where Gerwald could be alone with his thoughts. Twice he had failed to keep his promise to the woman he loved, and even after her death he behaved in a rash manner which almost saw him killed. Gerwald was lost and broken. Perhaps this was what he needed to grow into who it was he needed to become, but the journey was painful, too painful.

Everyone who had once been in his life was gone, but Gerwald was not alone. There were those who understood him, or at least identified with his pain. [member="Srina Talon"], [member="Gianna Aegis"], and others, had found ways to get the lupine to take steps away from the thoughts he found himself lost in at times. Today was hard, however. It was the first Life Day celebration since the loss, and Gerwald found he wanted to remember her. Sometimes when his eyes were closed he swore he could see her, but he knew she was gone. She was gone, and all that was left for Gerwald was to find ways to honor her.

There were two drinks in his hand. One whiskey, the other that damned fruity cocktail.

Gerwald sat the glass of whiskey gently on the ledge of the garden railing he near. The stone was cold, but the ledge large enough to hold the glass with ease.

He smiled.

"I owe you a whiskey still... from last time," he said with a chuckle and his eyes closed, "and we still need to finish that dance."

He raised the cocktail toward the sky as he looked up. Gerwald had no idea why he looked up considering one simply went to be one with the force. Call it an old habit.

"Happy Life Day, Nae."

 

[John Locke]

​

Location: Winterhaven​

Objective: Celebrate​

Wearing: This​

Tags: [member="Voph"]​

**clink**

The sound of a glass intercepting the mug, that little touch, as the tumbler bounced off the side of the larger glass a small smirk tugging up the corner of the cyborg's lips as he moved out from behind Voph, one hand resting on his pockets while the other gently swirled the whiskey around the crystal tumbler. He almost hadn't come, the whole idea of the party, of taking time away from work was something that didn't really entice him. There was just so much to do and there were barely enough hours in the day as it were. And yet...and yet here he was, and try as he might he couldn't justify that it was entirely for the chance to put a dent into the castle's suppply of Corellian Whiskey. The reason he was here was the man beside him, and a little bird who had flagged up a message for him, the importance of a date.

"You know, I never thought that the host himself would sneak off like this away from the party. Someone might almost think that you were trying to hide."

The line was delivered with an almost fond playfulness, amusement dancing on every word. Another swirl of his tumbler before he took a sip of the whiskey, dark eyes flicking out over the dance floor. He had no wish to join those couples who had braved the music, but there was something, like a memory, like a dream...that faintest echo. A tune from elsewhere, the feeling of moving, and warm lips...he must have been watching too many movie on the flight over. Excpeet he'd spent hte trip working through reports...maybe he'd played something up in the background and forgotten about it. The man's eyes flicked to the crowd, looking for something and he wasn't even shure what...that flash of red from his dreams.

Shaking his head John turned his attention back to Voph, that dream lingering on the edge of his mind as he settled his gaze on his friend, tipping the tumbler in his direction.

"Just so you know...as much as I like you I'm not dancing with you."

 

[Vytal Noctura]

​

Attire: White & Dark Blue Witch
Location: Grand Hall, Winterhaven - Near the Tree
Objective: It's a Party, not an Assassination - No Objective
Tag: Open

Vytal Noctura strode into the Grand Hall of Winterhaven dressed in a predominantly white bust, shoulderless white sleeves, and thigh-high white boots. Dark blue accents drew down the center of her body and provided swept contours to the snow-white adornments. Her bright eyes swept over the decorations that lined the interior of the winter recluse. Admittedly the snow topped roofs provided a suitable atmosphere for the season -- which she'd read up on before attending a gathering such as this one. The Castle of the Mandragora would not have had the same aesthetic, and even a woman of Dathomir could appreciate the winterscape of the surrounding region. Its rarity made it all the better. After all, she didn't live there and had no need to fret logistics of residence.

The four Fates of Midnight were abuzz with talk of the decor and the outfits worn by those in attendance. Vytal smiled as she peeked at them over one shoulder. "Go. Be sure the delicacies are provided to the wait staff, but then enjoy yourselves." Was she worried they might 'go native' among these offworlders? Perhaps grow too accustomed to the luxuries and forget how to remain strong, able to slip out of certain death, and tame the wildest of beasts? At times. Her Sisters could use a break now and then. A mental reprieve and opportunity to experience things never seen before.

At some point Vytal expected to spot Jorah pocketing a cookie or two. Sugary 'confections' were certainly a threat to their way of life. Perhaps she might retrieve a 'sample' of some herself during the party.

As she drifted into the Grand Hall with a slight nod of acknowledgement to the servants performing their duties admirably, the Nightmother noted a few familiar faces in the crowd. Who didn't need a break from ensuring the galaxy didn't fly or fall apart? Even the spirits seemed to be enjoying themselves with unheard cheer, giggles, and even a little harassment the living were likely none the worse for.

Slowly she made her way over toward what appeared to be a large tree. The pale woman regarded it for a long moment. One hand cradled the other elbow, fingers drawn across her lips as the adorned greenery was decidedly out of place in the Grand Hall. Yet, somehow, it did provide a certain luster to the Grand Hall that might not otherwise exist -- such an empty chamber full of food and people without something so grand to bless it all. Even so, she was plagued by numerous thoughts how to react to such naturalistic wonder -- and by how it seemed less than appreciated for all its glory, even if hidden beneath baubles and bits.

 

[Kalporra Djacq]

// Objective: Brood -> socialize, I guess \\​

// Wearing: ...why? \\​

// Tag: [member="Gerwald Lechner"] \\​

​

The Great Hall had been suffocating. At least out here, among the crystalline formations, she felt better, a little more at home. As she meandered through the misnomered gardens, she thought she recognized crystal types, habitats, and inclusions that were native the Christophsis. Memories of her home-planet itself didn't displease her, nor did her those of being caught, but the recollection of the circumstances that led up to her crime spree and the realization that it ultimately had landed her here both did. Looking back at the former, she could still only see an opaque shade of fuzzy red, but the emotions were perfectly sensible without sight.

She would never admit it, but she was fortunate to be here - in figurative terms, not specifically on Vylmira - and not in some maximum security prison, or somewhere six feet under already. Those facts weren't nearly enough to make Kalporra appreciate the Knights Obsidian an ounce more though.

"Happy Life Day, Nae."

A voice came she hadn't heard before sounded behind her and around the corner, causing her to suddenly pull back from her examinations. In kind, she whipped around, sending another sound tumbling into the chilled air. Riiiiip! Kal made a split second decision, in hopes of not making the damage she had caused to her imported sari dress any worse: she threw herself into a forward tumble, but quickly thereafter caught herself. She glanced down at her shirt and huffed at the tear she could easily spot along the hem.

Well, it wasn't like she hadn't enjoyed her time in the Confederacy as a more-or-less free woman...but she hadn't.

Ehh, I'll figure it out later, thought Kal as she leveled her gaze and, adjusting the drape over her shoulder, showed herself around the figurines standing in the way of her and the aforementioned voice. Behind them at a distance stood a familiar giant of a man at the ledge, staring up into the sky. As the murderess approached, she allowed herself a quick gander at the same speckled darkness, the light spots either stars or snow. "What one's that?" she asked idly.

 

[Myka]

Location: Grand Hall, Winterhaven
Wearing: https://i.pinimg.com/originals/10/b8/86/10b886f98a4a7f0e5302d3f0249026a1.jpg (how do you code this x.X)
Tag: [member="Rience"]

In all of the brief time Rience had had to become reacquainted with his daughter, he had certainly never seen her lacking in confidence. Finding him had been overwhelming, and leaving her world had been intimidating, but he could throw all his training swords and tactics at her in a constant barrage -- her resolve to learn under him had remained unshaken.

That was until she found herself stuck in a dress that clung to parts of her that had nothing to do with fighting. The simple solider was practically sweating through the thick shawl that was draped over her shoulders. No amount of blotting while traveling in on Rience's private shuttle had done any amount of good when it came to stopping the pit stains that were surely developing on the inner most layers of her attire.

She grimaced at the concept of spoiling delicate fabrics with sweat stains. This was why she should have just worn her olduniform. At least then she would have felt like herself.

These thoughts spun through her mind in a vicious circle, distracting her from what really was bothering her as they walked in together. As they crossed the threshold, the warm glow of candles and bodies suffused them. Myka was silent, her shoulders tense. The wealth in the room painted a fair picture of the fairy tales she had been told as a child. But fairy tales weren't suppose to be real, and she certainly wasn't meant to be in them.

They way she slowed her steps to hover into Rience's side was unmistakable. The last time he would have ever felt her press so close to him was when she was four-- the power was out. It was midnight. She had to pee. And she was petrified of being eaten by the toilet. One could assume she was no longer afraid of toilets.

"I don't see how this will help me become a better fighter," she told him.

 

[Kathryn Foster]

Location: Grand Hall, by the drinks table
Attire: Grey cardigan, white slim-fit top, blue denim trousers, tan boots with a bit of a heel, silver necklace of denonian heritage.
Tags: [member="Subject 73 Red"], open!

Colonel. She were still unused to the rank granted to her by High Marshal von Sorenn during the Epica campaign. Hence it took her a split second to react to the call, and when doing that the red tuft of an armored special forces operative could not even blend into the bright decorations of the hall. The armor did its part also to point him out.

It was a pretty misfitting sight, but also kind of a cute one when you put it together. Red, a human sentient by the looks of it but she knew the truth were far beyond that. He was... she refrained to call him an experiment as she thought it was discriminative. He was... special. When first meeting him, they had been thrown together in a guard patrol. They had clashed in what could be called a psychologically violent way, but after contemplating it, she thought that was part of the reason that they went along quite well now.

Kathy broke a surprised smile and turned to face him directly and answered his salute with a more casual one. They were at a party and not aboard a military cruiser, after all.

''Red? I'm surprised to see you here! It have been some time, yeah!'' she uttered merrily in slight surprise.

 

[Subject 73 Red]

Objective: Try to enjoy the party
Tags: [member="Kathryn Foster"], Open

Red smiled. She seemed surprised to see him. Well, obviously. Most wouldn't expect to see Red at a party, or even a place like this. She also seemed bewildered by being called colonel. She might still be adjusting to it.

"You seem surprised to see me. I mean, yeah, it doesn't seem like I'm the type of person to be at a social gathering, or even a fancy place like this. Or maybe you thought I had died by now. Though you seem to be surprised by the first option, as we both now I'm extremely hard to kill." He told her. Even though it didn't seem like it, he was making a joke.

"Some party, huh?" Red said looking around. He turned back to the Colonel, "Anyway, to be honest, I'm surprised to see you here. I would expect that a Colonel would have important officer work to do."

"So, what's up? Where have you been? What all has happened to you since the last time we saw each other?" Red asked.

 

[Kathryn Foster]

Location: Grand Hall, by the drinks table
Attire: Grey cardigan, white slim-fit top, blue denim trousers, tan boots with a bit of a heel, silver necklace of denonian heritage.
Tags: [member="Subject 73 Red"], open!

''Nope.'' she said admittingly with a light chuckle to his own statement about his odd presence at the gathering. ''You're probably the last person I'd expect to bump into here. But it's definately a nice surprise! You're enjoying yourself, then?'' she continued interestingly and looked up at him. He seemed to feel slightly out of place, but that had its natural reasons. If that was the case, she would not mind giving him a helping hand through the evening.

Her attentive blue gaze noticed that the guy was empty handed, having nothing to either eat or drink. They could not have it that way at a party like this.

''Even a colonel has to be off-duty sometimes. I love winter partys and wouldn't have missed it for anything!'' she stated firmly and offered him a smile. ''Have you got something to eat or drink yet? Please, help yourself.'' she continued and looked sideways to the drinks table at their left. ''There's non-alcoholic alternatives if you're piloting later.''

 

[Startorn]

Location: The Feast!

Tags: [member="Kathryn Foster"] [member="Subject 73 Red"]

Startorn walked up tp the door of the large fortress, it had been awhile since he went to a party that wasn't full of lowlife so this was a nice change, for this he went in some more normal clothes instead of his mandalorian armor, still hade his pistol on him, as he entered a servant asked "where would like to go sir?" And Startorn responded "i can find my own way thank you" the servant sputterd a bit "b-but sir, this is a very large place, I don't want you to get lost" Startorn shook his head and walked past "i never get lost" the reason he was able to get where he wanted to go without help was he'd studdied the buildings schematics, just in case, he walked into the Feast room and noticed something that kinda surprised him, someone in full armor, well except helmet. Startorn walked over "if I'd known i wouldn't have been alone with gear i would have left my armor on, Startorn" he said offering a hand to the armoured man and gave a nod to the woman with him.

 

[Kyyrk]

OBJECTIVE: Socialize and Host​

WEARING: This​

​

** [member="Prennis Keeoli"] **​

​

The attendant frowned as Prennis stated her business. Clearly not an answer he was expecting. "My most sincere apologies, Miss, but Councilor Daejin..." He was interrupted by a silken voice from behind the two. "She's not here for me." The woman that spoke was older, but not elderly. Clad in a simple white robe, and a jeweled mask that marked her as a Miraluka. Her dark hair was pulled into a simple bun, and her hands clasped together in front of her. The being regarded Prenn for a moment, then spoke again in the same, even tone. "He's been expecting you. Even if he's too prideful to admit it. But, such is the folly of men, no?"

A smirk crept into her features as Councilor Daejin stepped closer to Prenn, and gestured across the room towards the dance floor, even though her gaze was fixed on Prenn. "He is there. The one clad in what you call...white. You'll not miss him." Daejin paused long enough to take Prenn's hand in her own and smiled in greeting. Suddenly, a thought filled Prenn's mind. It clearly took the voice of Daejin, but....it was not within her head. As if a whisper had carried across the room against all odds. Seeing you will lift his spirits. He could use it.

And like that, Daejin had nodded a farewell and was gone. She had other guests to entertain. Her job was finished. Now that he had been pointed out to her, Voph's figure stood out like a sore thumb, light glimmering off the polished white metal of his dress armor. Beside him, a man clad in black suit...

** [member="John Locke"] **​

​

Voph smiled simply as the mug left his lips. "Someone has to hold up the wall." Voph was quiet for a moment, looking at his mug. He audibly chuckled as John quipped about dancing, and waved him off. "Nor I, you. And, last I were to check, you had people for that." Voph inclined his head in what Locke was sure to recognize as a sidelong look. "Of course, that tends to work best if the aide is not left at the office during your social outings." Voph never was sure what exactly the relationship between Locke and Gianna was. But what little he knew of Gianna, and what he had seen at the summit that started the New Mandalorian War, was enough to give Voph ample reason to offer Locke a ribbing.

Voph didn't pause for long, taking another quick sip of his drink. "But fret not. Soon we shall have endured what is expected of us, and be back to the job before you know it." Voph paused. It was odd that Gia wasn't here. Even if in an aide capacity. It was then he realized that Locke seemed...distant. "Everything alright between you two?"

Voph was prepared to listen intently to Locke, but was distracted by an all too familiar presence weaving between the crowd. Voph felt his heart seize him by the throat. He turned, looking behind him to see Prenn weaving her way towards them. "Ah, but another approaches. My friend, meet Prennis Keeoli." His arm rose to gesture towards Prenn as she approached the duo. "Prenn, meet John Locke. Long time friend and ally. A pleasant surprise to see you here. I had expected you would have been buried in your duties."

 

[Subject 73 Red]

Objective: Enjoy the party
Tags [member="Kathryn Foster"], [member="Startorn"], Open

Red nodded to the colonel. "Yeah. It's not a bad party. I don't know why there is a party. Do you know why we're having a party?" He asked.

"Nah, I'm good. I don't need anything to eat. I had something on the way here." Red said when she told him about food. And by eating something on the way here, he meant military-grade rations.

Then, someone came over and mentioned the armor. "Well, you always have to be ready for battle. I can see you are ready, with your pistol." He said to the newcomer, pointing out the pistol. Red shook his hand. "Red." He introduced himself.

"So, do either of you know why there is a party happening? I'm still in the dark." Red asked.

 

[Kathryn Foster]

​

Location: Grand Hall, by the drinks table​

Attire: Grey cardigan, white slim-fit top, blue denim trousers, tan boots with a bit of a heel, silver necklace of denonian heritage.​

Tags: [member="Subject 73 Red"], [member="Startorn"], open!​

Hmm. If it was something she had eyes for, besides chasing bandits through the skies, it was small subtle things in a persons behaviour. Also, guys were just too obvious to miss sometimes! The way the newcomer introduced himself were slightly notable, differentiating his greeting to them. That old saying about first impressions realy wasn't just a saying. She were not judgemental though, and stayed in the merry mood that the room and the party gave her.

''Kathryn. Nice to meet you. You're in the army? I'm sure none of you guys gonna have to use your blasters tonight.'' she said and offered him her hand instead together with an inviting smile.

She gave Red a somewhat puzzled look. Everyone should know why they were here and what they were celebrating, but she quickly remembered from whom the question came from.

''We're celebrating the last season of the cycle!'' she uttered in a given answer. ''It's a time to seek shelter from the cold outside and share time with family and friends. If you've been good all through the year... you might even get a present.'' she continued and added the last sentence in a subtly enigmatic manner before taking another sip of the warm drink.