Junction Eternal Crusade: Calm Before the Storm (SGHW) | EE/AC Junction of Javin+Bavva/Florn

[Ingrid L'lerim]

Lady Ingrid L’lerim Ragal Terassi Vandiir
Eternal Empress of the Eternal Empire, Lord Commander of the Wardens of the Shroud, Archon of the Primyn Group
Empress of Terraris, Supreme Commander of the Terraris Command, Head of the House L’lerim, CEO of the HPI Consortium​

Objective: Try to having fun.
Location: Ball room, Gullna Höll, Ession
Equipment: Elegant Attire | The Last Gift || Empyrean gland | OPBC-01m
Tags: Trinity Harris | Eleena Salwa | Open

[ Waltz ]
<"High Nelvaanian"> | ~ telepathic communication ~ | << comm. channel >> ​

<"I dare to hope, Overseer!"> she told her.

That kind of thing was most unforgivable for the woman. Especially from one of the leaders of the Empire. Ingrid is usually overlooked once if someone made a mistake, but not several times. This was not only because the woman was the Empress and also the military commander-in-chief, but also because Ingrid grew up in a militaristic, warrior society, even before the Empire. She was raised this way from an early age and even called her father general in the presence of others, but she often referred to him many times like this.

At the next words, however, the red-haired woman smiled politely. After all, they were at a ball where they had to feel good in theory. At least that was what was expected, especially that her daughter was the host.

<"I hope we have a chance to see. Although I have no doubt that our champion will win."> she said.

She couldn't have said anything else, she had to trust her own people, always. And it wouldn’t really have been appropriate for her to bet on or cheer for an opponent to win. Lord Geiseric might have been an exception, as he was also a member of House L'lerim.

<"Commendable, but remember that the Empire is always the first, not the personal businesses."> she warned her.

Always the Empire first…

 

[Greer Caimbeulaich]

Equipment: Lightsaber Claymore, Ashlan battle armour Shock Gauntlet, Icarus gravpack, Ashlan Rosary, survival kit
Tags: Rath Nihro
Location: The tournament grounds, Ession

Greer was pleased with herself to be awarded the victory in the blaster event, it was her weakest event and she was very glad to put it behind her, but now it was time to duel, the arena was a circular flat area with small obstables including a water hazard to simulate battle in the field. Greer picked out her correct length sword and swung it to get a feel for the balance. It wasnt the two handed great saber she was used too, but it was well balanced, she drew her finger along the blunted length of the blade as of looking for an edge, it was sharp enough to cut, but they wouldnt be lopping limbs off, this was probably best for a friendly duel.

Greer strode out and proudly waved to the onlooking crowd, she had been chastised before for her excessive enjoyment of a fight, but today she was supposed to enjoy it.

Greer hopped across an obstacle with a spring in her step and reached the centre first where she observed her opponent approaching. Rath could likely smell the force on her, and she was clearly a Jedi, but her true heart was that of a swordsman rather than a magician, this would be a good fight.

"You ready to go? I have been looking forward to this." in any other context this might seem like a threat, but her tone was friendly and their was a broad smile on her painted face as she drew her sword up above her head in a high guard Makashi stance to begin.

 

[Rath Nihro]

Objective: Tournament
Equipment: Dull Nelvaanian Sword
Tags: Greer Caimbeulaich

Whether it was a spar or on the battlefield, if there was anything Rath could take pride in. It would be the fact that out of every fight he's been a part of, he's technically never lost. It wasn't just the result of training or just a matter of experience. It was Rath's drive to win and survive in the name of the Eternal Empire. The ability to adapt to his opponent and counter with his own tactics has been the driving force behind each battle he's been a part of. Whether this could be the first time he's lost in a duel remained to be seen.

When it came to the duel aspect of the tournament, Rath's previous display of putting an arrogant noble in his place became a reminder to some people. Instead of lightsabers, they became curious if it would be any different if it was with blades. So Rath was handed a single, dull nelvaanian sword and gave it a couple of test swings. The former soldier felt the blade was heavier than he would prefer. Slightly forward heavy, unlike his personal sword. But he could work with it.

"Think you'll win this one too?" That same noble with the short brunette hair asked from the stands as Rath grabbed the sword. The Mercenary shrugged his shoulders in response.

"That remains to be seen." Rath answered before he turned to walk into the ring. Where his opponent was the same contestant from earlier. The very same Jedi, or at least her scent and her stance spoke of her Jedi training, was eager to face him. Her confidence was worn on her sleeve, but she lacked the usual menace when someone was looking forward to combat. Most Jedi or would-be Jedi were passive and tended to talk their way out of their problems like some politician. Not to mention the claymore that she wielded was a bit uncommon to see nowadays. Usually someone larger would use such weapons, or prefer the usual long swords. But at the very least the Jedi looked comfortable with the two-handed blade. With the assumption she had experience with such a weapon and not just because it was bigger than his; Rath's mind churned as he began to play out scenarios of how the duel would go.

Not affected by the Force, the major disadvantage on the base point of view would be the reach. The nelvaanian sword averaged to be slightly longer than the usual long swords, but the claymore has at least four inch difference in reach. Meaning that in all honesty Greer could easily keep her distance and attack while staying out of his own attack range. Defense would be risky, or so Rath thought, but attacking full on would be just as risky. The thoughts mulled over itself as Greer looked pumped up and ready to get down to business.

"Ready whenever you are." He calmly answered as his corrupted yellow eyes seem to be analyzing what he was seeing before him. As Greer assumed her stance, Rath's form was more relaxed as the blade was held low with the tip pointing diagonal to the ground by his side. The second they were set, and the gong echoed through the arena. Rath swiftly advanced towards Greer before he unleashed a seemingly torrent of blades. Rath was swift in both his foot movement and with his blade as he utilized a myriad of twirls and deflection as both defensive and offensive measure. Like a near-perfect blend of Ataru and Djem So.

Using his agility to aid his barrage of slashes and deflections; Rath attempts to sneak in a nasty knee during a brief sword-lock against Greer's torso. The impact wouldn't be life threatening, but if it opened a window of opportunity by staggering. Then Rath will swiftly spin to plant one foot behind Greer's before wrapping his forearm around her torso and goes for the takedown. Or basically throw her on the ground. Whether that counted as a point or not Rath wouldn't be sure, but under normal circumstances it just creates an opportunity to either press his assault or to create a breather for them.

 

[Trinity Harris]

Dr. Trinity Harris
DXenbo MAnthro
Overseer for Scientific Development

Location: The Imeprial Embassy, Ession
Objective: Enjoy Party
Tags: Ingrid L'lerim Eleena Salwa
Attire: Pretty dress

Spoiler: Equipment and links

Weapon:
Riding: Phantom
Accompanied by:
Wearing:
OPBC-01e
Ship: Luminary class light explorer exchanging crew space for biolabs

<"Commendable, but remember that the Empire is always the first, not the personal businesses.">

"Absolutely my Lord, it is an honor to be in a position that my service can have influence." she smiled and looked at her date, it was a party, she should stop trying to make awkward small talk with her lord and enjoy the evening.

"I hope to have some proposals ready for discussion at the next council session, but I won't bring up Imperial business on a night like this, enjoy your evening my Lord." she gave the Imperial salute and once acknowledged would walk away to enjoy the rest of the festivities. It was going to take some getting used to speaking to the Empress, she was famously formal and dedicated to the Empire, it was unlikely that the Overseer would be able to foster a friendship like she would prefer, but once she proved herself an asset to the empire she felt she could have a very productive working relationship.

Walking across the she stroked the back of the hand of Eleena Salwa for comfort as they walked away. "I get jumped eleven ranks overnight and I am scared into making silly faux pas, maybe we hop on a speeder bike and go racing instead." she let out a nervous laugh as she took the hand of the smal twi'lek soldier to dance.

Trinity felt she had changed so much so quickly and she hoped to never lose who she was in all of this.

 

[Ingrid L'lerim]

Lady Ingrid L’lerim Ragal Terassi Vandiir
Eternal Empress of the Eternal Empire, Lord Commander of the Wardens of the Shroud, Archon of the Primyn Group
Empress of Terraris, Supreme Commander of the Terraris Command, Head of the House L’lerim, CEO of the HPI Consortium​

Objective: Try to having fun.
Location: Ball room, Gullna Höll, Ession
Equipment: Elegant Attire | The Last Gift || Empyrean gland | OPBC-01m
Tags: Trinity Harris | Eleena Salwa | Open

[ Waltz ]
<"High Nelvaanian"> | ~ telepathic communication ~ | << comm. channel >> ​

Ingrid felt and perceived perfectly the conversation was awkward for the young woman and didn’t know what to say. That's why she chatted back and forth, all sorts. The girl was not a good politician and not a good soldier; a good soldier and politician knew exactly when to remain silent or what to say. The Overseer apparently did not.

<"Just don't abuse your power!"> she warned her again.

And the Empress did not make things easier for the young woman. It wasn't her job to patronise the soldiers in their personal life. Especially not someone who was now one of the leaders of the Empire. It was a ball now, but it wasn't the red-haired woman's job to encourage her. If she couldn’t find her way on her own, she wasn’t worthy of her current position. She nodded next, if she wanted to deal with politics today, it was definitely foreign policy anyway, and she hoped she could talk to Lord Demici, or Lord Grayson.

<"Have a nice evening and have fun too!"> she told them.

After that, she didn't hold up the two women. After all, they were here to have fun, not to talk to Ingrid. Especially since they didn’t really have a common theme. I mean, it can be hard to find anything, since for them the woman was primarily their ruler. This made it very difficult to communicate with others. Foreigners were therefore easier "targets." For them, too, the woman was probably not as distant and untouchable as for her people.

And yet, she wasn't distant and untouchable to her people either, only Ingrid was picky. She loved talking to people who were intelligent enough or just had something in them that captured the Empress’s discipline. Everyone else was uninteresting to her. The woman did not have a simple personality, and her high rank and influence did not help either.

Sometimes it was hard to be an empress or rather Ingrid L'lerim…

 

[Isla Draellix-Kobitana]

​

Location: Imperial Embassy, Ession
Objective: Have fun
Tags: Eina L'lerim-Vandiir Heinrich Faust Oraada Laabre

Spoiler: Isla's Personal Gear

Overseer Biochip OPBC-01a

Wearing: Pretty Dress, Snowflake Necklace

Isla laughed lightly at the mention of the little shadow cat that made all the brownies she loved so much, life was short, often brutally so in military service, it was always best to enjoy the time you had. "Please, pass on my complements."

She looked at Heinrich Faust and the way he reacted around Oraada Laabre . She was happy that her friend had met someone he enjoyed in that way, she was curious as to how serious they were, she might have to ask Heinrich at a more private opportunity, perhaps another wedding to attend. The last one was beautiful, Eina L'lerim-Vandiir was the most lovely bride.

As Eina spoke to Heinrich, Isla couldnt help but hear the sadness in her voice, there was something bothering her, that much was clear, but it was difficult to tell exactly what. Isla had painful experience on how different she was to the rest of them, and that seemingly innocuous could deeply hurt her. Eina said a farewell and walked off, from behind it looked as though she was wiping her face.

She looked at Heirich, "I'll be back OK?"

She walked after Eina trying to intercept her discretely.

"Are you OK? You seem upset. I know I sometimes don't know exactly the right words for these things.." that was an understatement, "But if you need to talk, either today or whenever you feel is best, I am here to talk." Isla wouldn't push the matter, she had no interest in becoming the source of any additional pain, an she certainly didn't want to be the target of any anger for ruining her party.

She thought about the comments on Tython, could that be what was upsetting her? Eina was a strong woman and a born warrior, so she doubted it was a simple as that, but even so her words gave her a horrible sinking feeling in her stomach. Everything about the potential defence of Tython made her uncomfortable, it gave her horrible memories of the destruction wrought at Korriban, but this time the Maw would be on the offensive and that could only make things worse.

​

 

[Eleena Salwa]

Location: Gullna Höll - Ession
Attire: Dress │ Shoes
Dialogue Legend: <"High Nelvaanian"> │ “Galactic Basic”
Tags: Trinity Harris Ingrid L'lerim

There had been a time when Eleena was terrified and compelled into a state of utter awe whenever she met the Empress.

Now, with so much of her life having changed since the first night she met Trinity at an event not unlike this one, Eleena was becoming acclimated to wealth and privilege. By virtue of her prodigious talents and achievements in the scientific fields, Trinity had been elevated to the position of Overseer of Scientific Development. Such a position came with the benefits of rank and privilege, but there was also no shortage of responsibility. While Eleena had not seen the same meteoric rise as her girlfriend, she had developed a reputation, especially after D’rinba IV.

Assassinating the president of an enemy government on accident tended to do that. Woops.

Fortunately, the Empress didn’t seem to hold it against her, even though Eleena had suspected that she might have wanted that kill for herself. For her part, Eleena stayed silent as her girlfriend spoke with the Empress, only giving the necessary salutes, before finally, the conversation ended.

“Well, that might have been…just a little awkward.” Eleena giggled, once she and Trinity were a good distance away from the Empress, well out of earshot. No doubt the Empress was a stern, perhaps even cold woman, if Eleena had learned anything from serving in the 267th.

“I really should have done more to prepare you, but it wasn’t a bad start! I’ve seen worse!” The swoop ace continued, before giving Trinity a playful shove and accepting her hand to dance.

“You know, I think she may even like you!”

 

[Nighthaunter]

Location: Imperial Embassy, Ession
Equipment: Silent Blades
Wearing: Suit
Objective: Reintegrate himself into the fold of the EE
Language Legend: "Galactic Basic"
Tags: Open

10 years had passed since Nighthaunter had assisted the Eternal Empire and it's subsequent sub factions in any form of conflict. He had become disillusioned with the galaxy and the events that had played out within it. He had fled the galaxy and gone to the outer most reaches where him and a skeleton crew of Silencers meditated on his battlecruiser. During this ten year period he became incredibly nihilistic and had begun to reject all former notions that he had of religion. He had then made the decision to go into stasis after a year of being in space in isolation on the battlecruiser. He had hoped to spend the rest of his life in stasis as he could not be bothered with the toils of the galaxy anymore. He remained in stasis on the edge of the galaxy in the large drifting space hulk for 9 years until there was a malfunction with his stasis tube and he was awoken to alarms. He had awoken to his large battlecruiser being on a collision course with a large asteroid, he had managed to guide the limbering cruiser off course with asteroid and had demanded a timeline update from the ships onboard AI.

Finding out that he had been in stasis for only nine years made him despair., he had hoped to have been in stasis longer. Despite this he had a spike of curiosity and plotted a course for Eternal Empire space. He wondered if anyone there would recognize him, or if he would be attacked immediately. Upon arrive in the Lucaya System he received transmissions from local EE forces to identify himself. He had answered their hails and stated that he wished to use their port to repair his ship and speak to anyone that was available in the imperial embassy. It was just his luck that he heard through the grape vine upon landing that the Empress was also on Ession and was hosting a tournament that evening. He quickly found himself accommodation in one the local hotels and dusted off one his old suits in order to look somewhat presentable at this imperial tournament.

Walking into the Imperial Embassy and past the security was easier that he thought. All he had to do was look like he belonged at the let him in. Upon entering he noted the entertainment that was happening for the nobility with men and women competing against one another in all forms of combat. He rolled his eyes, playing at war was not something he enjoyed watching nor participating in. He took note of the dance floor and instead opted to get himself a drink. He strode over to the bar and simply pointed at the bottle he wanted before handing the bartender some money and looking out across the large space.

"What to do, what to do." He muttered to himself.

 

[Niki Priddy]

ESSION PARTY​

Objective: Take Some Time Off
Niki's Equipment: Ivory Dress, Heartbeat Heels, Paralyzing Lipstick, Covert Colors in #10-Coal, Absorbelt, HH-Eclipse ring, HH-Iris, Force Warning Pendant, x2 Hutt Cartel Kidnap Jabber Rings-One on either hand, Tinfoil Hat Band, Earsculpt Comlink
Augmentation: PGEM-SAP "Amber Eyes"

Niki always held a sweet spot for the Eternal Empire.

It wasn't just because she made a healthy sum off of their war machine. Or that the Eternals had an exquisite selection of materials to pick from during production of whatever she happened to have her dreams set upon. Most were genuinely decent people at the slightest measure. And they'd welcomed what remained of the Agents with open arms.

Something that hadn't been forgotten in her own time abroad.

The sharp clack of her heels against the floor finally a sound that didn't cause her a grievous headache as she became more used to her augmentations. The greatest boon being that she was able to enter a room and figure out the going ons with a simple glance. A saving grace anymore as she stepped inside and spotted a ghost.

A face she had perhaps seen once in passing while on the Scintilla. Or during a shakedown for arming and equipping the different groups of the Agents. Perhaps glancing over at the designs of others while working as an engineer, or simply admiring the product they had brought to the Agents. The reason mattered little as her amber eyes fixated on the being and cut a line from the entrance to the bar.

Her features were far different than they had been previously. Likely making her unrecognizable now as she glanced to the man as she thanked the barkeep for the liquor and turned.

"Been a while since the Silencers made an appearance. Looking to get back into things?" She leaned against the table behind them, smiling at him while taking a measure with her eyes.

Nighthaunter


​

 

[Greer Caimbeulaich]

Equipment: Lightsaber Claymore, Ashlan battle armour Shock Gauntlet, Icarus gravpack, Ashlan Rosary, survival kit
Tags: Rath Nihro
Location: The tournament grounds, Ession

Greer smiled as the duel began, she brought her blade down defensively, her strength and experience allowed her to weild the blade with more finess than its larger size would indicate. But Rath Nihro was fast, and the strikes came in smoothly, but Greer was strong, and her blocks were enough to disrupt his rhythm enough to prevent her being overwhelmed. He was good, very good.

His blade locked with her and she felt his knee coming in, she instinctively tightened her abdominal muscles, it was the difference between being winded and staggered, she stepped back away from but he was ready and she went to the floor with a thud, rolling as she did to break the impact and hive herself some distance. A flag went up for his point and she quickly got back to her feet, grit covered part of her forehead but there was a look of a woman who was enjoying herself.

"Nice point, you won't get another like that," and she launched herself back into the fray, she fought aggressively, this was the way she favoured combat and it had served her very well against other lightsaber welders, this time she tried to use the man's speed against him and twisted into out oh his path of attack, trying to find an opening to attack his flank. As he made a particular forward thrust she attempted to block to his outside and bring the pommel of his sword up into his face, the attack would be pulled naturally, it might connect with enough force to bruise an eye, bloody a nose or break a lip, but she had sparred more than enough times to know how not to cause serious injury.

If she failed to connect, she would spin past and again square off against him, trying to put him between her and the river.

 

[Nighthaunter]

Location: Imperial Embassy, Ession
Equipment: Silent Blades
Wearing: Suit
Objective: Reintegrate himself into the fold of the EE
Language Legend: "Galactic Basic" 'inner thoughts'
Tags: Niki Priddy

Nighthaunter had hoped to stay on the outside of the party and observe the goings on of the nobility. However, it appeared unbeknownst to him that someone had observed his ghost like presence. He had made note of the woman approaching the bar in the Ivory dress hadn't thought to look her way twice. She looked to be just another person who was in the know and had connections to the upper most nobility of the Eternal Empire. So when after ordering her liquor from the bar she turned to him and mentioned the Silencers, he was very much surprised.

'How the hell did she know of the Silencers? She didn't look familiar at all, was this some kind of trick?' He looked down to his side but still faced straight forward, and noted the ring on her finger that obviously could subtly manipulate her appearance. His silence was long and deafening as the thoughts raced through his head. He finally turned towards the woman who was smiling up at him,

"The Silencers are a dead organization, I suspect I am one of the last surviving members of my order." He said before taking another sip of the liquor in his hand. He subtly looked her up and down, clearly she was a civilian and meant no harm. He then idly glanced over at the sound of clanging blades and rolled his eyes. He found the idea of combat for entertainment quite repulsive. Those that enjoyed it were the ones that had never seen the horrors that war brings. However, violence, war, stealth, fear, torture those were his specialties, ever since he had been a young boy. He didn't know any other life than the one that he had been born into. He turned back towards the woman standing to his left

"How do you know of my order?" He asked genuinely curious. The order that he had created was very secretive and only those who were involved in the inner most circles knew exactly what their purpose was. Sure there were rumours as to who the men and women in the black midnight armour were, but it was very rarely revealed.

 

[Rath Nihro]

Objective: Tournament
Equipment: Dull Nelvaanian Sword
Tags: Greer Caimbeulaich

The sun blazed upon their shoulders with an intense warmth as the duel raged like two individual storms clashing with lightning and thunder. Rath's victory point was short lived as the knee counted as a point of contact. Greer was quick to react and recover so that neither the knee strike or the throw was too harmful. She wasn't beaten up about the point against her however, instead she seemed to be enjoying the thrill of combat and glory. Greer was true to her word as she quickly made it clear that Rath would have to try harder if he wanted to get past her defenses again.

Greer leapt into the fray once more with the fury of a krayt dragon as she proved to be more nimble with the claymore than it would suggest. Rath was put on the defense as he parried and evaded the strikes as best as he could. A clash of blades rang through the air as several spectators were at the edge of their seats. The cheers from the crowd seemed to intensify the duel, or at least gave it a different kind of energy than just two warriors sparring.

The attacks came at Rath relentlessly, and he bid his time in order find an opening. An opportunity, something that would change the stalemate into his favor. Yet Greer slashed at him diagonally as it went for his chest. That's when he stepped to the side and ducked around the large blade. In that moment, Rath countered with a thrust of his dull sword as it was going for her exposed side. However, that's when he realized that he was baited as Greer nimbly dodged to the side and strongly clashed blades. The shock wasn't strong enough to knock his sword out of his hands, but the energy and his position forced the pommel of his sword to come at his face. His eyes widened as adrenaline kicked in before he instinctively let go of the hilt while tilting his head to the side. Allowing the hilt to glide past his cheek before he grabbed the bare blade. Only thing was that the hilt grazed his cheek before he grabbed the blade. The sound of a point for Greer was sounded across the arena, and the spectators grew louder.

"Now we're even." Rath remarked as the graze left his skin red from the impact, but it wasn't anything more than a slap to him. At the very least it didn't draw blood.

In one arc, Rath brought the sword down to clash against Greer's onslaught. Only difference was that Rath used the cross guard to hook around her blade before redirecting it with a strong pull to his side. Following up with an attempt at what appeared to be a punch to her midsection, only that it was a feint as he discreetly attempts to grab the hilt of her claymore and twist the angle. Forcing the blade to face downward if successful. The final part of this sequence assumes if he's been successful, Rath will end it as the blade angles downward, allowing his sword to be freed before he attempts to thrust the sword like a Dagger in an upper cut motion at Greer's chest. Rath positioned himself close to her where swinging the claymore would be difficult, essentially stepping a tad too close in her attack range. If it did look like it would hit, Rath will restrain himself to mitigate the impact to the point where the blunt tip touches Greer. However it wouldn't have any impact behind it if the series of movements was successful.

 

[Trinity Harris]

Dr. Trinity Harris
DXenbo MAnthro
Overseer for Scientific Development

Location: The Imeprial Embassy, Ession
Objective: Enjoy Party
Tags: Eleena Salwa
Attire: Pretty dress

Spoiler: Equipment and links

Weapon:
Riding: Phantom
Accompanied by:
Wearing:
OPBC-01e
Ship: Luminary class light explorer exchanging crew space for biolabs

Trinity laughed at Eleena as they danced together, she hoped she was right and that the Empress could come to like her. "The next twelve months is going make or break me I think. Earn that respect and show them what I am capable of, or disappear back into the outer systems chasing carnivorous flowers again." she sighed happily, she definitely wanted this. But she was a scientist, it was OK to not have the best people skills sometimes, it was just a question whether this was one of those times.

"what was the name of that planet again that you wanted to settle on? I was thinking we could buy something nice, a big lab for me, a well equipped gym for you, maybe near a canyon so we can go trench running to blow off steam." Trinity reached over to a server and grabbed a pair of delicate chocolate shells for the two of them to enjoy before continuing to dance to the music.

She was looking around her a little trying to find somewhere discreet and pretry to have a private conversation with Eleena, she maybe hadn't planned this quite as well as she would have hoped, but she knew her girlfriend wasn't really in to the big showy displays of affection anyway. Trinity was trying her hardest not to give the game up that she was nervous about something. "You do look lovely tonight, that dress is beautiful on you, we should dance a little more then maybe go and have a little air in the garden"

 

[Eleena Salwa]

Location: Gullna Höll - Ession
Attire: Dress │ Shoes
Dialogue Legend: <"High Nelvaanian"> │ “Galactic Basic”
Tags: Trinity Harris

Letting her steps follow the music and the lead of her girlfriend, Eleena nodded as Trinity spoke of the next twelve months, speculating what might happen if she were to fail in her new position. Even so, Eleena knew that she would never hold failure against her girlfriend. Not to mention, going back out to the outer systems wouldn’t be such a terrible fate. The Twi’lek did enjoy going on scientific excursions with Trinity, if only to see nature and to get fresh air. However, Eleena would have preferred to keep Trinity close at hand in the Unknown Regions, rather than the outer systems.

“That wouldn’t be such a bad fate! As long as I’m the one eating you and not the giant carnivorous flowers!” The Twi’lek replied, with a coquettish grin.

Taking one of the chocolate shells from her girlfriend’s manicured fingers, Eleena popped the sweet-tasting treat into her mouth and smiled, before once more stepping into the music, this time taking the lead over Trinity in the dance.

"what was the name of that planet again that you wanted to settle on? I was thinking we could buy something nice, a big lab for me, a well equipped gym for you, maybe near a canyon so we can go trench running to blow off steam."

“The Scintilla, Vassek, or Bakura.” Eleena answered. “You know, we might even be able to afford our own private home sphere on the Scintilla!” The Twi’lek added, suddenly remembering that she and her girlfriend were actually rich, like WTF?! “Gosh, imagine that! A little sphere in space, all to ourselves! You could even use it as an arboretum!” She gushed. “It would be such a beautiful place to raise a-”

Suddenly, Eleena stopped. Was she moving too fast?

Fortunately, Trinity quickly mentioned the garden, but Eleena sensed that her words hadn’t gone unnoticed.

“The garden sounds fun. Maybe you could show me some more plants!”

 

[Jayce Helms]

Location: Gullna Höll - Ession
Objective: The Ball
Attire: Attire
Tags: Ingrid L'lerim

As it would be expected of nobility, and with such a significant influence. The property was simply breathtaking from the outside view to the inside view. In truth, the young nobleman knew of wealth, but his family wasn't part of this sphere of prosperity and wealth. A small family with a couple of businesses to their name under the HPI Consortium sponsorship. Such businesses that deal in cybernetics and droids.

The neatly paved walkway to the glorious estate flanked with trimmed grass and other exotic plants that Jayce couldn't fathom to recognize. Cheers and the sounds of metal clashing against metal echoed throughout the outdoors as there appeared to be a tournament grounds nearby. It appeared to be interesting, but Jayce was first tasked to attend to the ball and pay his respects. In truth, Jayce always viewed himself to respect the Empress and her family due to the Empress's tireless efforts to quell the chaos that the former Eternal Emperor left in his absence. Jayce was only a young teen during that time, but the troubled times still affected them both financially and influential.

Small nobleman or not, Jayce still had to serve at least 3 years in the Eternal Empire, and while at first the young man wasn't certain that was his path. Yet after he went through the brutal basic training and eventually earned his rank as Lance Corporal with his brothers and sisters-in-arms still breathing in the midst of this encroaching war. Jayce adjusted his life to be part of the military, and to honor his family's wishes to retain their influence. As their son, Jayce must attend to this ball and at least attempt to mingle with the others. If only Jayce was informed of this a day before it took place Jayce would've had more time to properly prepare.

Alas, garbed in a dark leather jacket with slacks and formal dress shoes. Jayce did his best to look proper in the few minutes he had before he even took a step towards the Gullna Höll. Upon entering through the open grand doors like open arms beckoning him to approach. Jayce would briefly acknowledge Eina as he kept his distance in respect to her already conversing with someone else. There were several nobles and people in higher places attending to this ball. A lot of them attended to their own personal business, and other than champagne in hand Jayce made some small talk with some of them.

The young man glanced to the side and noted that the head of the state, the Eternal Empress, was beside herself. The Ball was hosted by her daughter, who was also the heir and hostess of this event, yet it appeared that everyone was enjoying their time except for the Empress. He couldn't possibly fathom a guess as to why that was the case, or perhaps he was just reading into it too much. Perhaps he should mind his own business as not everyone is going to tell their troubles to anyone who just asks. However, it never hurt to at least check up on someone, even if they were the ruler of said empire.

"Excuse me ladies and gentlemen." Jayce excused himself from one of the circles, and began to approach Ingrid.

"Jayce Helms, Lance Corporal at your service, Your Majesty." Jayce introduced himself with a gesture of a handshake. Perhaps it was a bit improper given their difference in status. However, Jayce learned early on amongst his peers and superiors that sometimes it was nice to have someone view them under a positive and respectful light. Of course he understood that not everyone greets others by shaking hands. Perhaps it was arrogant of him to think of such things, but if it was unpleasant to the Empress. Jayce would simply pull his arm back into a salute.

"I speak on behalf of my father of how honored we are to be invited to your home. And please accept my apologies for my late arrival if it offended you or the hostess on this fine evening." Perhaps he was too formal, but it's been some time since he's been in any social gathering amongst nobles. But at the very least he was straightforward with confidence. Confidence was key to most conversations, and frankly in most military tours across the galaxy. If anything, he honored his word to his family that he would at least introduce himself to the Empress and express some formal gratitude. Even if Ingrid was not the hostess of the night on this event, Ingrid still possessed a very important presence amongst the ball.

 

[Ingrid L'lerim]

Lady Ingrid L’lerim Ragal Terassi Vandiir
Eternal Empress of the Eternal Empire, Lord Commander of the Wardens of the Shroud, Archon of the Primyn Group
Empress of Terraris, Supreme Commander of the Terraris Command, Head of the House L’lerim, CEO of the HPI Consortium​

Objective: Try to having fun.
Location: Ball room, Gullna Höll, Ession
Equipment: Elegant Attire | The Last Gift || Empyrean gland | OPBC-01m
Tags: Jayce Helms | Open

[ Waltz ]
<"High Nelvaanian"> | ~ telepathic communication ~ | << comm. channel >> ​

<"My Lord!"> she said in an ice-cold voice as she looked into the young man's eyes with her blue ones. <"My address is, "My Lord""> she told him.

This address had been the woman's for more than twenty years, from the moment she became director of Blackwatch. Essentially from the very beginning of her political career. Last but not least, it was well known in the Eternal Empire that she never used her imperial, Empress title. She left this to the outside world. In the Eternal Empire, she wanted to be considered only as a military leader. She had "sat on" the throne for a long time, but still did not like the weight of the crown. She still thought it might have been more useful in another area.

But her sense of duty did not allow her to resign. The red-haired woman inherited the throne, STRATCOM chose her then, she was asked to do so as she was the Overlord. Ingrid had no chance to say no. And even so, she could not resign slowly after a decade and a half. One day, if she'll die; it was her duty. This is how she had to serve the Empire.

<"Not everyone is present yet. I don't see Lord Pietro Demici or Lord Cedric Grayson , for example."> she told him.

She knew they had been invited, and Demici had a good relationship with the Empress's daughter; like an uncle. As for the formal tone, for Ingrid it was ordinary and familiar. As for those who were invited, she did not know who was invited. It was MANIAC 's business; after all, that’s why House L’lerim and Terraris Command kept that AI. He was the one who dealt with such duties.

<"This embassy is part of the palace, so it is not formally the home of the heiress and her husband. Is this your first time in Ession?"> she asked him.

She looked at the young man questioningly for a moment, though her voice was cold and military all along. Her voice was more fit to a military uniform than the dress what the red-haired woman was currently wearing.

 

[Trinity Harris]

Dr. Trinity Harris
DXenbo MAnthro
Overseer for Scientific Development

Location: The Imeprial Embassy, Ession
Objective: Enjoy Party
Tags: Eleena Salwa
Attire: Pretty dress

Spoiler: Equipment and links

Weapon:
Riding: Phantom
Accompanied by:
Wearing:
OPBC-01e
Ship: Luminary class light explorer exchanging crew space for biolabs

“That wouldn’t be such a bad fate! As long as I’m the one eating you and not the giant carnivorous flowers!” The Twi’lek replied, with a coquettish grin.

Trinity blushed and raised her eyebrows suggestively. "Oh absolutely my love, although you should have seen the plant that tried to eat me on Felucia, sometimes biology hase a wicked sense of humour."

She considered Eleena's suggestion of a home sphere on the Scintilla, those things were very large, she could fit an entire jungle in there, with space for a race track if they so chose. She grinned lightly as her girlfriend cut her sentence short, maybe not wanting full discussions right now, all she said, all that was needed to be said was "I agree."

She danced one more dance before she led Eleena into the gardens, these were as beautiful as the gardens in the Imperial Palace, and had several very obscure and difficult to grow plants, something which Dr. Harris and her department had helped design. She led her to a tall, strange looking flower with long, deep red petals that pieces together before spraying out. "This plant is an Adastran Heart Flower, it grows on a planet in the unknown regions, the soil had to be seeded with several compounds that are very toxic as it normally grown on industrial run off. It is treated as a gift from the light on its homeworld and sometimes given to highly regarded diplomats."

Eleena knew that the strange plants excited Trinity and she adored sharing these details. Her eyes widened slightly and there was a sweet smile on her face as she saw exactly whwre she wanted to be, a small leafy archway hung with virantly coloured orchids led led to a small patio with a view to the surrounding countryside. "Over here, you should see these little flowers." she led the way before gesturing to tiny metallic blue bell shaped orchids, "smell them, they are divine"

As Eleena turned away to look closely at the flowers and enjoy the scent, Trinity took her chance and slipped something our of her bag and slid up next to her with her arm around her waist. She had considered dropping a knee, but she and Eleena had talked and it Trinity suspected it wasn't what she wanted.

She gently turned the woman to face her and the two leaned their hips against the fence. Trinity spoke softly to Eleena. But for the first time in their relationship Trinity spoke in.. almost.. fluent Twi'leki

"The last few years have been like nothing I have ever experienced and despite all the wonderful things that have happened to me, meeting you is still the best part. So," and she blushed suddenly feeling very vulnerable. "will you marry me Eleena Salwa?"

 

[Ivixa Nera'kas]

Location: Training Room, ENS Crimson Empress - Orbit of Ession
Equipment: Viper Mk. I Skinsuit │ X8 “Gambit” Elite Disruptor Pistol
Objective: Assess a New Agent
Dialogue Legend: <"High Nelvaanian"> │ “Galactic Basic”
Tags: Myri Dara

<“Your skills are exceptional, Operative.”> Ivixa spoke calmly as she watched Myri systematically take down a trio of unarmed Infinite droids in hand-to-hand combat, doing so with such power and precision that one might speculate that the woman’s hands were made of phrik. Indeed, she had punched one of the droids with such force that the unit’s chest plate had a hole gouged in it. No doubt, it would need to be serviced. The other two droids were naught but crumpled wrecks on the ground, their chassis still sparking after being utterly obliterated by the Thyrsian Operative.

Ivixa was a talented sniper and assassin with many accomplishments to her name, but even she knew that she couldn’t hold a candle to this woman when it came to unarmed, hand-to-hand combat, not only because of the disparity between them in size, but also because of the Thyrsian’s refined, hard-earned skill in Teräs Käsi.

Having already read her file, Ivixa knew that Myri had trained in Teräs Käsi for most of her life—longer than Ivixa had been alive in fact, given how quickly Asa’nyx reached adulthood. Ivixa had expected to see an expert, but instead she had witnessed the performance of what she perceived to be a master.

It had almost left her speechless.

<“Very exceptional, in fact.”> Ivixa added. And even that was an understatement.

<“I have decided to take you as my apprentice. Starting now, you will no longer report to Agent Thamne. Instead, you will report directly to me.”> The Asa’nyx continued, as she turned and gestured to a pair of Factotum HRDs, who proceeded to clean up the crumpled wrecks that had been three towering Infinite war droids only moments before.

<“I do apologize for the transition, as I realize that your career is just beginning. Instability in one’s professional life is rarely a good thing, but I believe that this change will prove worthwhile. I hope you do as well, Operative.”> Ivixa said, as she turned and began to walk down the hall, once the Thyrsian seemed ready to move on.

<“Now, do you have any questions before we reach the simulation room, for the next part of your assessment?”>

 

[Eleena Salwa]

Location: Gullna Höll - Ession
Attire: Dress │ Shoes
Dialogue Legend: <"High Nelvaanian"> │ “Galactic Basic” │ ~“Twi’leki”~
Tags: Trinity Harris

Flowers, flowers, and more flowers!

Eleena was glad that she was allergic to tibanna gas instead of something like pollen or another type of plant byproduct. She didn’t think their relationship would have lasted if pollen had the same effect as tibanna gas did on her constitution, but perhaps she was underestimating the power of love. Indeed, their relationship had survived through many long deployments and periods away from each other. During that period, Eleena had continued to fly, doing so against the most dangerous foes the galaxy had to offer even knowing if she were to die or become maimed, Trinity would be horrifically distraught.

Nevertheless, they had made it work.

With a soft smile, the Twi’lek listened with wide, curious eyes as Trinity explained the Adastran Heart Flower, before following her towards the patio, to another group of flowers, a row of bell-shaped orchids. Clueless of what was to come, Eleena closed her eyes and let her senses be consumed by the smell of the orchids, drinking in their citrus-like scent with all of her focus…

Up until she heard her girlfriend speaking Twi’leki.

Eleena opened her eyes and turned towards Trinity, her gaze meeting a sight that immediately made her heart flutter in her chest as crimson blush swelled up on her cheeks. Then, her hands flew over her mouth, eyes sparkling with restrained tears as she took in the ring in her girlfriend’s hands.

At that moment, she felt like the most loved woman in the galaxy.

"Will you marry me, Eleena Salwa?"

Eleena’s response came swiftly, though not in words, but rather, in the form of a kiss as she threw herself into the taller woman’s arms, reaching up on her toes and locking lips with her girlfriend with such force that she risked accidentally causing Trinity to drop the ring.

She didn’t answer until she had gotten her fill of Trinity’s love.

~“Yes, Trinity…I will.”~ Eleena answered in Twi’leki, a smile laid bare across her alabaster features as the words flowed from her lips in the melodic nature of her native language. Then, she offered her left hand to Trinity for her to put the ring on.

~“I love you, Trinity Harris.”~

 

[Lansal Akira]

Location: Ball room, Gullna Höll, Ession
Attire: Formal goggles, semi-formal jacket

Lansal was out of his element.

He had rarely been on Ession in the time since he joined the Crusade: mostly on administrative matters and some cultural outreach programmes between Felucians and the wider realm, partially representing his people in the presence of the Important Lords of the realm. In those situations, he was painfully aware of how ill-prepared he was as the face -the only face left- of the Vigilants. His was fluent in Basic, yes, and he was not entirely a country bumpkin, but there was something about the authority and gravitas wielded by those that had inhabited power for a long time that Lansal knew he sorely lacked.

Perhaps it's the "Ashlan look", he pondered, as he was waved into the Embassy past the crisply-saluting guards. The militarist comportment of the Crusaders very much jumped out of the Corpus and into real life, reminding the Felucian of ancient Jedi Lords and the like. That feeling was something Lansal was very much not used to, having worked with the rather laid-back and brotherly fraternity of the Akirans.

Before he could get depressed thinking about them again, several of the ushers seemed to recognise him, and directed him down the long halls of the Embassy towards the ballroom. The halls seemed to stretch and tesselate forever, even as the decorations along them turned more festive the closer they approached the ballroom.

No, it's definitely the Eternals. If the movers and shakers of the Crusade were austere, the Eternals were downright grim at times. At least, that was the image he saw in his mind. No wonder Lansal felt out of his element here. Not that he was particularly bubbly, but the- how did the Humans say it?- chill attitude between comrades of his time as an Earthen-ranked Vigilant was quite a contrast.

Finally, they reached the Ballroom, and the ushers disappeared from sight, leaving the Felucian to enter alone into the bustling hall. His nervous thoughts left his mind as he marveled at the grandeur of the hall. It was deceptively high, and the architecture seemed to both dampen yet focus the sounds of celebration and polite conversation. Lansal was still admiring the crenelations when a waiter silently stopped beside him, just out of sight. He jolted himself out of his admiration and turned to accepted the drink. It was fine.

What was I planning to do here...? Right, meet important people, canvass support for rebuilding Felucia and getting purging the Bogan beasts still roaming Felucia. I think there was something to do with labour disputes about emigrant farmers to other communities too... Lansal found somewhere in the hall out of the way of the main crowd and took out his notebook, checking to make sure he did not forget anything. He knew how silly he looked, poring over a small piece of paper, his drink almost spilling, but he knew his small stature probably helped to hide him from any disapproving stares. He really should have accepted an assistant from the Felucian embassy.

He was definitely out of his element.