Come on Over for Dinner [First Order & Commonwealth]

[H3xle]

Jacen was trained, then designed and trained some more for combat missions. No hesitation when it came to taking an enemy under fire, advancing on enemy positions, ordered retreats, everything. Social events, however, were something that he had never been trained for. Not in the Marines, where he started his career, and not in the Navy Jaguar program that he currently found himself in.

That all said, he cut a very dashing figure in his dress navy uniform. His left breast was populated by a modest amount of metal, including several Army/Marine only medals and ribbons from before he became a Jaguar. Distinguishingly, the only cybernetic enhancement that was visible while he was dressed up was the occular sensors embedded in his temples. His legs and arms were sheathed in white, even his hands were in white gloves.

Probably the strangest thing, he mused to himself as he stepped off of the lift, was being utterly unarmed and unarmored. He wasn't carrying so much as a pocket knife with him. He was still a Jaguar trained cyborg, but he always felt better with a firearm at his side.

Jacen looked around at the sea of uniforms and people strangely clothed in other items. He noticed another Commonwealth uniform at the bar, so he moved over there as he continued to observe his surroundings.

"Whiskey and a beer, please." he said to the barkeep. He then turned to [member="Sasha Starkos"] and nodded with a small smile. "Sergeant. Please forgive me, but you look almost as uneasy with this as I feel." he said in a tone that would carry little further than her ears. Jacen had once been a Marine NCO, and was potentially still poised in that frame of mind, ignoring his own current rank insignia.

 

[Roderik von Brinkerhoff]

[member="Sioux Chambers"] had agreed to attend the military banquet with Colonel Roderik von Brinkerhoff, which diverted her away from the side of the First Order's Grand Moff for the evening - temporarily, at least. She accompanied the Starfighter Corps officer into the lobby, conversing all the while. Much had changed in the time since their first formal event - a charity ball hosted on Prosperia, when he was still a Captain commanding a sole squadron; albeit the First Order's premier, the 100th TIE Squadron, now commanded by [member="Pierce Fortan III"], who had been wounded in action in the events that lead up to this moment.

Roderik had learned to relax a little in the time between then, and now - he wouldn't even gather all of his pilots for uniform inspections prior to arrival! Although, in reality, he had simply moved past that position, that duty to the organization. Others, like Pierce, and fellow squadron commanders [member="Nils Brenner"] and [member="Greta Kohler"], both equally present for their participation and upcoming recognition, had inherited his old job of making sure their pilots looked up to the part.

The Colonel's duty had shifted to reprimanding the squadron commanders' for the mistakes of their subordinates. It didn't quite suit Roderik's command taste, so official paperwork rarely ever followed the 'discipline' of a good laugh about it behind closed doors.

"Be on the lookout for the crippled one." Roderik joked to Sioux, referencing the crutch-relying Pierce. Roderik had concealed a set of cigars in a tailored interior pocket of his red service jacket, cigars that he intended to share with a select few including his fellow best mate, post-awards ceremony.

Roderik kept an eye out for any of the other members of the Starfighter Corps who were present with him in the Battle of Omega. [member="Sara Lee Jones"] was around, he knew. She had flown exceptionally well, but had been seriously injured as well, earning her a cigar with her superior officers later. [member="Nils Brenner"] earned his cigar not by injury, but by valiantly rushing the weapon systems of the Omega, in an impromptu trench run of sorts - and the final act of defiance against the Rogue Sith, by the First Order.

 

[Jaster Awaud]

Spoiler

[member="Sara Lee Jones"] [member="Natasi Fortan"] [member="Pierce Fortan III"] [member="Tanomas Graf"] [member="Wolf"] [member="Lilith Sedarri"] [member="Fiolette Yvarro"] [member="Carlyle Rausgeber"] [member="Ludolf Vaas"] [member="Pierce Fortan III"] [member="Cyrus Tregessar"] [member="Asharad Graush"] [member="Marzena Choi"] [member="Jude Falkrowe"] [member="Sasha Starkos"] @Zee

Jaster stood at attention while he let everyone got to their seats. It seemed that he had misunderstood the invitation, he thought the award were being handed out first, then the meeting and talking. As soon as the 6'5" robotic monster realized this a server holding a tray and some alcohol on it walked up to him. The server didn't know how to speak to the large man. Jaster didn't say a word back but spoke in his low mechanical voice, "Very well."

He took off his rebreather mask, revealing his half eaten away jaw. The virus that infected him was not contagious but it was not something enjoyable to see. He reached for the glass of Whiskey, then downing it in one swig. Once he was finished he put his rebreather on and placed the glass on the try for the server. He didn't say a word but the server took that a small his que to leave. A few seconds later he noticed Admiral [member="Horus"], all the Civil Servants in the Order had received a picture of him to accommodate to any of his needs. It seemed that the admiral wasn't speaking to anyone of the Lrder so he decided he should occupy his time.

Clipping his last latch of his rebreather he started to walked twords the Lord Admiral and meeting him at his table. His voice more then likely interrupted his conversation as the speaker in his helmet was not suddle. "Hello Lord Admiral, my name is Jaster Awaud, Governor of one of the Orders Planets, I wish to offer my gratitude twords helping our imperial forces in the line of battle during the Omega Conflict." His speech pattern and acsent was that of a Mandalorians, but his armor screamed First Order.

 

[Alleycat]

"There is no need for forgiveness, Lieutenant. We feel what we feel for a very logical reason. Shall we drink to our paranoia hopefully being just that?" the redhead offered with a small smile, raising her whiskey glass in [member="Jacen Konshu"]'s direction as they stood side by side at the bar.

Sasha knew that Jacen was part of the Commonwealth Navy's special forces. He had been aboard the CRS Surprise over Cerea same as she had when the ship was lost to the Swarm with their Vagaari warriors and biological weapons. That had been unfortunate, but now that the Commonwealth understood how they attacked and fought, the faction would be ready next time.

After taking a nice sip of the rich amber liquid in her glass and relishing in the familiar taste and burn as it passed her full lips, the spirited Corellisi turned so that she was facing more outward towards the crowd; her dark jade-colored orbs taking in the tall, dark, and rather handsome LT, who cut a fine uniform especially in the white dress one. She knew he had some physical enhancements as it was evident if one gazed for any length of time into his chocolate drop eyes. Not that she was gawking, just they were standing rather close at the crowed bar.

"Unfortunately it seems many of the First Order are still wearing their badges of honor from the Omega conflict. I kinda feel like I shouldn't be here as I didn't not serve in the battle. I was stationed with the Home Fleet back at Alexandria at the time," Sash mentioned bittersweetly, then took another sip of whiskey. She felt guilty for not participating yet not.

"This is however a beautiful place to hold such a fostering of kinship event between the two factions. I've not been to such a lavishly appointed establishment before. How about you?"

 

[Fiolette Fortan]

The Yvarro's arrival at the Grand Hotel had been met with warm smiles, smiles that Admiral Fiolette Yvarro did not wish to entertain, but for the sake of both her daughter and her niece she put on a smile of her own. An elegant venue and an exquisite menu were met with disregard as she passed the menu to her daughter. Fio never liked award ceremonies and in particular when they were covering something as horrific as Castameer, even if the First Order had emerged victorious. In fact, the First Order played a large role in many ways and were had not received a hero's thanks for their part. No, instead they had drawn the ire of the remaining governments, and now the Galactic Alliance would be marching on their doorstep.

As Admiral Fiolette Yvarro walked to her table, she wanted nothing more than to shout at everyone here. To throw them out the door and take the admiralty into the naval strategic war room and prepare themselves. She paused a moment when she saw who was to be her date for the evening, her comrade [member="Tanomas Graf"] she gave him a smile and looked to her daughter. "Motion for him to sit with us, I'm going to find the nearest waiter." She says and moves away to find a waiter carrying a tray of champagne. Taking one of the full flutes she begins to sip it, and is then helped to her seat by her daughter. As she takes her seat, Fio surveys the room and spots [member="Cyrus Tregessar"], and [member="Carlyle Rausgeber"].

Lucy points out [member="Horus"] and of course @Natasi Fortan. Fiolette acknowledges both of them and asks Lucy to sit, as people shift around the ballroom, walking from here to there - having conversations. She sees the now Supreme Commander [member="Ludolf Vaas"] and sighs, "how many drinks am I allowed to have?"

"None, but I see you've clearly decided to break that rule," Lucy says in a sharp tone, "mother behave, please."

Fio does her best to not roll her eyes, when did Lucy get like this? Bah, no matter she thinks to herself, wishing she had brought her tablet so she could at least be productive and oversee Primo Victorian's progress on the new Raptor-class production. "Of course Lucy, you know how I just adore your attitude these days."

"Stop it." Lucy looks at her mother, "just stop, please - we're only here for a little bit then I can take you back."

"This is smoke up someone's skirt and darling it will not be mine."

"Cousin-"

Fiolette looked at her daughter with a stern gaze, "you will not refer to her as such in public."

"The Grand Moff," Lucy corrects herself, "has gone out of her way to do this, you will at least be gracious about it."

"Oh of course, how could I not?" Fio quips as she sets her cane between them. Bitter would be an understatement, bitter about surviving, bitter about being here and not elsewhere working. Bitter that as soon as Castameer had been won the First Order was once again put on the defensive. Fiolette took a moment to breathe, "my apologies." She was taking this out on the wrong ones, and Lucy was right to not stand for it.

Lucy looked at her mother with understanding eyes. "Remember what you said at the memorial."

"I remember," Fio says as she looks at her cane, "I remember all too well."

 

[Zef Halo]

The music played joyfully but non intrusively as it was expected that everyone would lead conversations rather than have a rave party. Jude felt odd with himself and...old for feeling better at such an event rather than the clubs of his youth. Time goes by, people change and grow up. Even the rebellious Jude Falkrowe. Was it life or specifically the work he was doing that was changing him ? Perhaps both, he did know exactly. What he knew was that he would get bored just leaning on the bar, drinking his drink and monitoring the crowd.

His eyes felt on two Commonwealth personnel - a female and a male and a smirk formed on his face. Why not show them some First Order hospitality ? Perhaps even learn something new.

The two were sitting on the same bar as him but on the other side of it, thus Jude made a couple of steps and approached him with his signature smirk on his face. Five feet before reaching them he raised his glass in a manner of a toast and acknowledged.

"Hello there, dear guests. A big congratulations and gratitude for your actions during the Omega crisis." Despite mentioning the event that plagued his mind ever since, he remained joyful on the outside. A conversation in such an event would do well to keep the blight of thoughts at bay. "How do you like our extraordinary, I would say, reception and hospitality ? Have you been treated well so far?" He then gasped. "Oh! Where are my manners ? The name's Jay."

​

"Pleased to meet you." ​

[member="Sasha Starkos"] | [member="Jacen Konshu"]​

 

[H3xle]

"There is no need for forgiveness, Lieutenant. We feel what we feel for a very logical reason. Shall we drink to our paranoia hopefully being just that?" the redhead offered with a small smile, raising her whiskey glass in Jacen Konshu's direction as they stood side by side at the bar.

Jacen smiled back and raised his own whiskey glass before taking a sip and letting it burn down his throat. The smile stayed on his face, his paranoia loosening a little by having both a trained marine at his side, and drinking with a beautiful woman. The second seeming a complete dichotomy from the last few years as a Jaguar, it almost seemed like a normal action.

"Unfortunately it seems many of the First Order are still wearing their badges of honor from the Omega conflict. I kinda feel like I shouldn't be here as I didn't not serve in the battle. I was stationed with the Home Fleet back at Alexandria at the time," Sash mentioned bittersweetly, then took another sip of whiskey. She felt guilty for not participating yet not.

Jacen nodded as he took in the First Order military members assembled. "Like you, I was not there either. I was in a training rotation just outside of the home system. We were radio silent for weeks. I had to read reports and watch newscasts about the action..." he trailed off as he shook his head at himself and finished his whiskey, replacing the glass in his hand with his beer bottle.

"This is however a beautiful place to hold such a fostering of kinship event between the two factions. I've not been to such a lavishly appointed establishment before. How about you?"

The question caused Jacen to smile again as he shook his head and looked at Sasha more fully.

"No, I grew up in an asteroid mine, then a government orphanage, then the Marines." he looked around the room and slowly shook his head. "Only place as expensive as this place likely was that I've been in, is on a Navy bridge...even then, I'm not sure the price tag matches."

His expression sobered noticeably as he saw someone walking up to them. He covered a little by taking a sip of his beer.

"Hello there, dear guests. A big congratulations and gratitude for your actions during the Omega crisis." Despite mentioning the event that plagued his mind ever since, he remained joyful on the outside. A conversation in such an event would do well to keep the blight of thoughts at bay. "How do you like our extraordinary, I would say, reception and hospitality ? Have you been treated well so far?" He then gasped. "Oh! Where are my manners ? The name's Jay."

"I'm Jacen." he replied, then paused a bit so Sasha could introduce herself. His eyes glanced over at her face a moment, before coming back to Jay. "This is a very...extravagant reception, Jay. I can't say I've been treated so well in my life." He smiled, though not as freely as before.

 

[Samka Derith]

Samka swirled her wine glass around as she stood alone at the room's sidelines. Occasionally her crimson eyes would flash over the other guests but most of the time she was content to silently admire the fine marble architecture in the hotel. Avalonia was a truly beautiful city, it was a shame she didn't get to spend more time here but it was worth it to remind herself of what her actions in the field were for. There was satisfaction in knowing that she was doing her part to keep this world safe and spread their high culture to the less enlightened parts of the galaxy for them too to enjoy.

A particularly loud, obnoxious laugh from a nearby Junior Naval Officer broke the young Knight of Ren from her thoughts. It was a reminder of the odd social climate she was in. Sam enjoyed the classy atmosphere of such events dearly yet was at a loss for how to present herself, it was why she stood alone. She'd become so adjusted to masking her true nature behind a diplomatic charm or childish innocence that she struggled to be 'herself'. Whoever that was anymore. Shaking her head, Sam took a small sip of wine, she refused to get existential today. This was a celebration and she should content herself to have fun.

"Hm," Sam gave a quiet appreciative noise at the quality of her drink. Truth be told, she'd not picked it up for the drink itself but for the appearance it gave her. It may be odd to some but she felt more empowered holding the glass of blood red wine, like she would be seen as older, more regal and elegant looking. To her, the wine glass complimented her long cream dress. The rest of her look was the typical make up applied to sharpen and age up her features; lipstick, blush, eyeliner and elongated lashes while her hair was fluffed up to give a light, bouncy look while still seeming thick.

Taking another quick sip of her wine, only quick as she did not wish to become a drunkard, Sam looked at the other guests. It would be time to socialise then. Standing at the side the entire time would probably constitute a wasted evening. She was having some difficulty deciding who to approach, Ludolf Vass and the woman by his side were an obvious choice. She'd seen the pair in attendance of other events before but they had never crossed paths. Times like these were when one supposedly built bridges and, if what she heard was correct, the man was promoted to Supreme Commander since the tragic passing of the title's previous holder. A powerful connection indeed for her to have. Yet just as she was about to approach the man someone else caught her eye.

[member="Wolf"], her fellow Knight of Ren was also in the ballroom. The pair had not been face to face since the battle on the Omega station where they'd been separated in combat. Ignoring the social opportunism before her, Sam instead hurried to his side. She'd heard he survived but the man's injuries were more serious than she realised if he was confined to a hoverchair.

"I'm not sure which change is more drastic, the chair or the fact you've cleaned yourself up. I mean, you shaving? Really?" Her first words to the man were dry and delivered through a typical smug, tight lipped smile but only thinly concealed the mixture of relief of seeing Wolf again and concern at his state of health.

Turning towards the woman he was with, [member="Sara Lee Jones"], she looked the pilot up and down. "And he brought a companion. How interesting," Sam bowed her head slightly forwards and to the side in respect but kept rather intense eye contact with the woman as she spoke, "Samka, I'm one of Wolfgang's colleagues. We served together in the Battle of Omega."

Walking around to Wolf's side, Sam pinched the Ren's shoulder and whispered into his ear, "I thought you were dead for a while. Glad I was wrong for once."

 

[Alleycat]

"I grew up on Corellia, well the way the planet was before she was broken, with my mother, then my grandfather after Mom died. There was a historic hotel in downtown Coronet that had been rebuilt to it's former majestic self. We had our CorSec Academy reception there in the ballroom after graduation. It was beautiful in a natural way not like this false posh feel you find here," Sash replied, remembering that special day in her life, knowing how proud Pops had been of his granddaughter following in the retired CorSec agent's footsteps.

If only [member="Rayce Tharelle"] was as proud of me… Maybe in time, my newly introduced father will be as I serve him well in his Marine Corps?

As [member="Jacen Konshu"]'s expression sobered noticeably, the Corellisi followed the lieutenant's dark gaze and she turned her copper-red head just in time as a man walked up to them from the other side of the bar seemingly from the First Order to greet the two Commonwealth soldiers.

"And I'm Sasha. Nice to meet you as well, Jay," the redhead answered [member="Jude Falkrowe"] after Jacen offered his name, then she let her comrade follow up with his additional comment.

"I would have to say the same. Thank you. We appreciate your faction's hospitality."

 

[Horus]

"Lord Admiral, we'll be arriving momentarily," Zee murmured, the Lord Admiral wiped his upper lip of any residue powder. Andris was one hell of a spice, and doctors said it was the only reason he was still going strong at his age despite the illnesses that plagued him. "Thank you, Zee," Horus said, the doors opened, laughter poured in. The smell of perfume and cigarra permeated across the room and into the elevator. Truly, he didn't know Zee all that well. Her file was considerably smaller than the other spooks around him, but he had faith in her more than Winslows more trusted.

Light footsteps and the venerable Lord of Admirals tenderly made his way across the floor. His icy blue gaze fell on the room, for the most part everyone was standing around talking, he himself found his designated table with the rest of the Commonwealth personnel present and took his seat. He didn't have the strength to stand around for the next few hours, and a warm cushioned seat was as welcoming as any bed to him right now. Though the powder was doing its job to rejuvenate his energy, his bones still ached with age.

Horus Nelson was too busy watching Jacen and Sasha from afar to notice Jaster, the man caught him by surprise. "Hello Lord Admiral, my name is Jaster Awaud, Governor of one of the Orders Planets, I wish to offer my gratitude towards helping our imperial forces in the line of battle during the Omega Conflict." Horus craned his neck, the man wore a rebreather and something about Jaster sent the hairs on his arms on end. "Ah, Governor," Horus said with practiced effort, "I'm sure any sailor worth his salt would have done the same."

Horus briefly looked Zee, she was seated beside him, although the First Order had placed her opposite of him on his table he had previously switched the name plates around so that she would be beside him. He leaned in closer to her and whispered in her ear, his head turned away from Jaster in hopes he would not read Horus' lips, "White wine, please, make it sweet, and check on Sasha and Jacen." He gave Zee a clap on the shoulder and sent her off. "So, what planet did you say you govern?" Horus asked Jaster, he removed his cap and sat it on the table. His head was smooth and hairless.


[member="Zee"] | [member="Sasha Starkos"] | [member="Jacen Konshu"] | [member="Jaster of Clan Awaud"]

 

[Ludolf Vaas]

The awards ceremony was a case of the usual suspects, of course. Ludolf couldn't help but catch [member="Natasi Fortan"]'s small smile from across the room, one that was returned with a smile of his own. He certainly did not expect any warmth from Grand Moff Fortan after their recent history, but even a smile was a sign of improvement. Something seemed to have changed between them since his accident. It was unspoken as of yet. Ludolf was still surprised that she was one of the two faces he'd seen by his bedside when he had awoken from his coma; he was still reliving that instant in his mind.

"In fact, I hope you eat well tonight," Ludolf turned to Marzena and said encouragingly. "You're eating for two people." With his gloved hand, he laid a warm, possessive palm on the pregnant bump on her belly for a moment.

Then, turning around to face the rest of the venue, Supreme Commander Vaas caught sight of a few more familiar faces. When Marzena ordered her sparkling cider, Ludolf snatched two flutes of champagne from the bar countertop. Asking for his fiancee' to follow him in tow with a light tug on her hand, Ludolf made towards [member="Asharad Graush"], who as of right now, was by himself.

It was the first time they'd seen each other since the accident aboard the Kleve. He would ignore the Colonel's disheveled hair just this once.

"Have a drink, Colonel Graush," Ludolf uttered in his deep bass with a half-smile as he held one of the flutes out in A'sharad's direction. Then, he shifted to the side, allowing Marzena to come into the picture. "This is my fiancee', Marzena."

 

[Jaster Awaud]

Spoiler

[member="Sara Lee Jones"] [member="Natasi Fortan"] [member="Pierce Fortan III"] [member="Tanomas Graf"] [member="Wolf"] [member="Lilith Sedarri"] [member="Fiolette Yvarro"] [member="Carlyle Rausgeber"] [member="Ludolf Vaas"] [member="Pierce Fortan III"] [member="Cyrus Tregessar"] [member="Asharad Graush"] [member="Marzena Choi"] [member="Jude Falkrowe"] [member="Sasha Starkos"] [member="Zee"] [member="Jacen Konshu"] [member="Roderik von Brinkerhoff"]

Jaster continued to stand where he was as the Admiral [member="Horus"] sat down next to his comrades. Sitting in the half ton suite of armor would be very difficult unless the chair was reinforced. He stood quite as the Lord Admiral spoke to the women next to him. It was rude to keep his scanners inside his helmet on so he turned it off. This meant he couldn't record, or get info in his heads up display.

As soon as the Admiral had finished he had asked Jaster of what planet he currently served. He didn't wait a second to respond as he was proud to serve the Conglomerate Prime for years even before the First Order. "I serve on Conglomerate Prime, my adopted home world and a production world for the Order, I am more interested in your home world however, I heard that Alexadria is very enjoyable this time of year."

Conglomerate Prime was a very interesting world, but unless you were from it or surveyed it. Jaster had many plans for the planet, and joining the Order may make his plans possible.

 

[Natasi Fortan]

Natasi glanced across the room, spying [member="Jaster of Clan Awaud"] engaging in conversation with one of the guests of honor, @Horus. It was good that someone from the Government was taking the initiative to greet the Commonwealth while Natasi was engaged, and though she would have preferred to see it being done by a more senior member of the government, she was grateful that she had some time. She had pressing family matters to attend, after all.

She followed [member="Fiolette Yvarro"] into the room, coming up behind the quarrel and clearing her throat delicately to announce her present. "Ms. Yvarro," she said politely to Lucy, placing a hand on her shoulder and leaning in to press a brief kiss to her cousin's cheek before leaning over to do the same to Fiolette. "Aunt Fiolette. What's this I hear about working? A genetic condition, perhaps. You must give yourself time to heal. Don't make me pull rank. Or rather, ask [member="Ludolf Vaas"] to pull rank, since I've been effectively neutered." She closed her eyes, shaking her head a little. "Apparently my having taken command of Battlegroup Nebula was... not to the military establishment's liking. Not that any of them could be bothered to involve themselves at Omega, but that's another foxhunt altogether."

She pulled a chair from an adjacent table and sat next to Fiolette. "Pierce will be here soon. I'm not sure if Aunt Hyacinth will, as well. Have you met Pierce? Any of you?" She looked around to Lucy with a smile.

 

[Zef Halo]

Jude did not need his Force powers to read as much as he can from the two Commonwealth guests. He was Lorrdian after all. It helped a lot. Jude couldn't help but notice both guests' rather feeling unfitting to this place and event. Their uniforms, of course, had already made him conclude that both were military. Now it was time to learn more. Delicately.

"Jacen and Sasha. I am glad to hear that. There is, of course, plenty of where this came from. The First Order has been recently thriving and has provided good life for its citizens. I, personally, am a product of that. " He said with the smirk still on his face as he took a sip of his drink. There was nothing wrong in judging loyalty in a subtle manner. Answers were truly found not when a question had been asked but in the middle of nonchalant conversations. "That is a boring topic, though, I am sure military personnel such as you have equal privileges such as this back in the Commonwealth." Jude treaded carefully as he filled his tone with kindness and goodwill.


[member="Sasha Starkos"] | [member="Jacen Konshu"]

 

[Asharad Graush]

A'sharad had barely moved from where he was standing, preferring to look about at the other patrons. Many of them were from the First Order's Military, and even so, he knew so very few of them. Not that it mattered so much to him, his teeth grated upon each other. Why was he annoyed? Even he couldn't give an answer as to why that was. Lifting the glass of wine to his lips, he finished the glass and no sooner had he done so, he found another person with a tray passing in front of him.

His recently emptied glass of wine was then deposited onto that tray that had now been designated clean-up duty.

Just in time, for when he turned, [member="Ludolf Vaas"] was approaching him, in tow, someone A'sharad didn't know, or was really interested in. But with these Imperial types it forced him to be 'kind,' or rather, polite. He fit the oddly numbered four digit right hand into the gaps of his left. No sooner had he done so, he was accepting the glass with a small smile and a nod of his head in thanks. "Thank you," were his first words, appearing to be entirely genuine, at least in tone.

"A pleasure to have made your acquaintance, Lady Marzena," he said with a separate nod of his head for the... Pregnant woman his peripherals told him. A'sharad opened up to say something, no doubt to mention the injury the Field Marshal had suffered, but then realization spread across his features and he partially closed his mouth. "I imagine the evening will be quite exciting," he lied, in the same breath lifting the new flute that he had been gifted up to his lips to take a sip.

[member="Marzena Choi"]

 

[Fiolette Fortan]

Lucinyia greeted her cousin in kind, "mother wishes to work during this beautiful ceremony." She gives Fiolette a knowing look which is met with an even sterner look from before. It appeared that Fiolette would be outvoted if there was such a thing in this family. "Nonsense, you're head of state I imagine you can pull rank when it's necessary." Replied young Lucy as she placed her hands on her lap and listened to cousin [member="Natasi Fortan"] speak of other family members, members of whom she had yet to meet. "I have more cousins?"

Fiolette took a breath and placed a hand on her daughter's other shoulder, "I should think so, and what a pleasure it will be I'm sure," she says with sincerity. "If Hyacinth does arrive point her to this table, so that I might catch up with her. Balance knows it's been ages since, since, well, since." She surmises a hand on her cane feeling the emblazoned logo on the top with her thumb. She waits a moment or two having heard her niece speak about the military establishment, Fiolette had her own opinions about this of course, opinions she didn't dare say while they were out in public. "Yes, indeed another foxhunt, one we shall conduct over tea my dear." Says the Admiral as she looks to her niece, "but if I may."

"From an old admiral, to her head of state," she paused for brevity, "jolly good show."

A little smile formed on her lips, "jolly good show, Grand Moff Fortan."

"Mother told me how brave you were cousin," Lucy says whipping out the word cousin before her mother could stop her, "I should be so lucky as to serve in your fleet."

 

[Wolf]

Wolf smiled as [member="Sara Lee Jones"] leaned in towards him. "We both have. You are truly a credit to the First Order," his eyes moved to her cybernetic arm, "how does it feel?" A part of him felt envious, he sometimes felt tempted to go to the medical staff and ask them to just amputate his legs and give him new ones, so restless he was to get back onto the field. Injury to the spinal chord was not so easily addressed, they would tell him. This event was no doubt enjoyable, but how long could he indulge in this illusion of mirth while the First Order was still expanding, the rest of the galaxy still in pain and disarray? The Omega crisis showed the galaxy the might of the First Order, and their desire to preserve life, but rather than look to the First Order as a new symbol of galactic leadership and unity for the factions, it instead drew the attention of the galaxy towards them with increasing wariness, especially from their neighbours. How long before the Galactic Alliance would be compelled to act against the First Order, in the name of some misguided sense of justice and peace? The First Order needed to be at full strength, in all its parts.

Wolf's attention was drawn by [member="Natasi Fortan"], who gave a nod in his direction. He returned hers with his own. The Grand Moff was someone he had yet to meet, and Wolf found her an intriguing figure, hearing of her exploits in the Omega War and leading forces in space. Anyone who would be found worthy to be hand-picked by the Supreme Leader himself to govern and administer to the entire First Order was one who demanded Wolf's highest respect. He trusted absolutely in the Supreme Leader's judgment, which led him to believe Grand Moff Fortan must be quite the extraordinary figure. Wolf had always been intrigued by the realm of governance and bureaucracy, while to others it may be a dull and boring thing, it was the engine by which this grand city could exist, not to mention the First Order as a whole. Wolf could twirl a blade on the battlefield, but with his legs disabled, what good was he now? Good governance and leadership, on the other hand, were in the realm of the mind, traits uneasy to remove by simple wounds to the flesh.

There was a familiar presence in the room that approached him, and drew Wolf's attention away from his companion immediately. He felt a genuine warmth as he saw [member="Samka Derith"], his fellow Knight of Ren. He felt odd having to look up to her, having grown used to her usually being over a foot shorter than him. He laughed at her words, grinning, "Well what can I say, I am a new man." He watched as she moved to Sara. He gestured to the pilot as Samka introduced herself to her, "And this is Lieutenant Sara Lee Jones, she fought in the Battle of Omega too, for the Starfighter Corps. We met in less than pleasant circumstances." Their episode with the undead aboard a Star Destroyer in the Red Nebula still made Wolf feel uneasy, though he did not elaborate further.

Wolf smiled as she whispered in his ear, looking up to her at his side, holding her gaze with his own. "For once? If I recall correctly, jumping to the top of a multi-story chamber and facing down an ancient dead Sith Lord by yourself did not seem the wisest course of action. What did you try to do again, sweet-talk her out of it? That worked out well." He grinned to her, his bearing visibly relaxing as he spoke to a familiar face. They had been through a great deal together, and yet Wolf had not really ever had the chance to just have a casual conversation with her. His tone became more serious as his grin slowly faded, "It is good to see you too, Samka." Was Samka even her preferred name? Serving alongside her on the battlefield, all the way back when they were merely Disciples of the Order, made him feel as though he had known her for years, and yet at the same time felt he had not even scratched the surface. "I trust you made it out with little injury?" There was a genuine concern in his voice, that surprised even himself. Often his pleasant words sounded sincere, but would carry little to no weight behind them. His mind flashed to the image of Samka collapsing to the ground, himself helpless to prevent it as Darth Molior stopped her heart with a flick of the wrist. It made him feel sick.

 

[Sara Lee Jones]

She gave a smile, she lift her left arm as she moved the fingers carefully and closed her hand" heavy but that's a advantage on its own, this model is made to be able to lift heavier things and punch harder so more durable " she said and placed that hand gently on his shoulder as she looked out among the people, how long ago was it she saw multiple people crying and in sorrow now laughing and as joyful as could be, frowning slightly she shook her head to herself and then gave a smile, couldn't beat a imperial down at all

She looked over to [member="Samka Derith"] as she gave a polite smile as she was introduced and saluted" as he said lieutenant Sara Lee Jones, I participated in the final run on the ships power systems for the engines and yes again me and [member="Wolf"] met in some quite odd conditions...."he mind flying back to the zombie thing as she shivered and pushed that away

She casually listened to the conversation with a slight grin, seemed everyone did some stupid stuff all over in the battle...couldn't blame them the battle was horrible...and she pushed that to out of her mind

 

[Progflaw99]

[member="Pierce Fortan III"]'s feigned modesty cause a slight smirk to tug at the corner of Lilith's lips. Personality; the TIE ace certainly wasn't lacking in that department. As she listened to his words, his subtle compliment followed by an explanation for his forwardness the smirk turned to a smile. He wasn't wrong. Lilith had been approached on more than one occasion by the overly inebriated or the fickle but she'd never seen much merit in following up with any of her short-lived admirers, she was constantly on the move. Something else had struck her that evening after the performance, in part due to the orchids, but the moment she'd seen him it had hit her right in the chest. To say Lilith wasn't one for whimsies would have been a lie, she often was impulsive, jumping from one thing to the next but that wasn't always a bad thing. She had been traveling from place to place across the galaxy at large, enjoying the freedom she felt. With people however she was much more reserved, Dosuun was the first planet she'd really put down any kinds of roots with the flat. An expression of concern crossed her usually happy demeanor.

It was likely one of her weaknesses, caring about others, but she did anyway. She nodded her head, listening intently as Pierce explained before they were to enter the large room ahead. Some of the names she'd heard before, of course [member="Natasi Fortan"] was at the top of the list. She'd never met the woman but she'd heard whispers all over the galaxy of the Grand Moff and her powerful fleet. Even during Omega she'd been aboard the... Concordia, that was it. She'd had to refresh her memory of the event, in case she were to meet any of the more notable of the First Order''s military forces, it was an awards night after all. When asked if she'd know anyone at the events, she gave a curt laugh.

"Oh no, I seriously doubt I will know anyone, but you never know." Lilith brushed an errant strand of hair back behind her ear. "I just recently put down some roots here in Avalonia, I rent a little flat down the street from the place you decided to -start living fully- " she teased.

"And how exactly do you propose to do that?" Lilith raised an eyebrow at the crutches. Giving Pierce a wink, she smiled. "I'll get the drinks for us, but since you asked, you can't go wrong with a light moscato or reisling. You?"

[member="Sara Lee Jones"] | [member="Wolf"] | [member="Fiolette Yvarro"] | [member="Ludolf Vaas"] | [member="Roderik von Brinkerhoff"]​

 

[Marzena Vaas]

Marzena smiled up at [member="Ludolf Vaas"] as he stepped close, his hand resting against the side of her stomach. It was a tender gesture, one that would surely make her pregnancy known to any that happened to be looking their way. But in that moment, Marzena didn’t even mind. After all, she was quite proud to be carrying Ludolf’s child. And she was also glad that she was starting to actually look pregnant, and not like she had simply started letting herself go.

After a few moments of waiting, she had a sparkling cider in hand. Marzena took a dainty sip of the fizzy drink, her attention captured for the moment by servers with large trays of appetizers. She couldn’t ignore the hunger pains like she used to, and she certainly could not tame the hangry mood that followed close behind. It would be best to stay ahead of it; she really did not want to end up snapping at anyone tonight. Marzena nodded to Ludolf when he tugged at her hand, she turned to follow, but not before snatching up a few small bites from a passing tray.

A couple of steps behind the Supreme Commander, she could see that he was approaching a man with rather disheveled hair. It was a look that one might judge as trendy, but perhaps a bit out of place in a setting like this. Marzena had never seen [member="Asharad Graush"] before, and had no clue that he had actually witnessed the accident at Kleve. The few details she did have about the incident would remain behind closed lips, never to be spoken.

“It is lovely to meet you, Colonel Graush.” She offered a pleasant smile and a nod, hoping that she had heard his name and title correctly.

There was a tiny moment of silence; she took the chance to take a sip of her drink and to nibble a vegetable samosa. She dabbed the corners of her mouth with a napkin, and smiled brightly once more.

“Quite exciting, indeed.” She echoed, before taking another bite.