First Order: A Herevan Rose

[Jairus Starvald]

Irani had never been much of an attender to these events.

No point in them, because most business was never concluded in high-profile, public affairs. Usually, not always, but usually they happened behind closed-doors. When the individuals involved could be happy, content and comfortable away from the prying eyes of those who looked on.

Perhaps it made them more at ease.

But the CEO of ICE had to make an appearance here, if only for the reason of showing people he had not died from overworking himself through the last few months.

"You know, I am surprised you agreed to my invitation." Irani mentioned to [member="Matsu Xiangu"], as they sat in the limousine and patiently waited to be ferried to the ball. "Never took you for one to be interested by all this."

Natasi had loved it and simply her name made him frown. After all these months, that woman was still... no words to describe her.

Surprisingly enough Xiangu had not been surprised when he showed up again. Most people believed him dead, but not her, never her, almost as if she had been waiting for him to show up on her doorstep. She didn't even punch him all that hard.

Comparatively anyway.

 

[BE-183]

Spoiler

The uniform of the private was an exceptionally simple, spartan affair and suited its wearer perfectly, though this evening it was slightly disrupted with the coloured band that she was told to wear. Clad in the immaculate regulation black tunic, trousers and polished jackboots, with a modicum of detail in the shining belt buckle at her waist, Bee found it somewhat snug and thus a little too readily revealing of the outline of her robust build. Buff lady problems. But it wasn't tailored after all, and fit comfortably enough besides. Seeing the line at the door teeming with what she could only assume was... fashion? ... She figured she was the better dressed in any case.

Of course, she was without a... date? ... Though, she was perfectly satisfied in her own company. She would have liked to bring a weapon with her as her 'date', possibly. Going out without a blaster was to her the same as leaving one's home without their wallet to a normal person. It just felt plain wrong, like it would lead to trouble down the line, that moment of panicked realisation when it was direly needed.

Waving a greeting to the doorkeeper and reciting her operating number, she then marched into the grand venue. Upon entry she was hit by an ornate score from the official orchestra. Classical music was not really her style. Come to think of it, she didn't have a particular style of music. It was perhaps instinctive that she preferred not to deafen her situational awareness with distracting noise.

There was one form of distraction she deemed acceptable however, as she promptly made a beeline for the booze, selecting whatever was the most unrefined substance they had in stock and frowning when she was informed of the limit in place. At least she had a drink in her hand, before she had to speak with anyone; not that she expected to be approached for small talk, as she probably blended in well enough with all the other enlisted. She found herself identifying sight lines, choke points, cover dotted around the great hall, and told herself to relax and get comfortable. Supporting her elbow with her free hand, she swirled the amber brewski as she stood there holding up the wall beside the bar. Not so delicate, as wallflowers go.

 

[Connor Harrison]

Connor Harrison. A name associated with the Silver Jedi Order. A name associated with confusion, scorn, resentment and ego.

It was lucky then that Connor Harrison of the Silver Jedi was dead.

The residues of the Light had been dragged from him in a nightmarish Dark Side ritual on Dxun. The fight had been painful, but the fight was now over.

The flicker of the Force he was lost was back, and it felt empowering after being cut off from it for so long. The Dark Side was now his ally, and all the Light in him was dead. He had suffered a number of ordeals and experiences at the hands of Sith Lords and Knights, and he took each experience and learnt from it. The Force abilities he had were reduced to that of a learner, for now he was but a learner. A student. An Acolyte. A Disciple.

There was a long way to go.

The Sorceress [member="Matsu Xiangu"] would now partially have the Connor back that she wanted for her project on Maena to truly make him into a Sith, whatever that would entail. For that reason alone, he was grateful that when he saw her again he would be a changed man for her to build.


Names and faces of his past were just that; the past. Now it was time to forge his future.

- - - - - - - - - -​

Prosperia.

Connor had visited Dosuun twice and both were in Avalonia. He had two names to associate with the First Order – the selfless Doctor [member="Irajah Ven"] and the fiery Discple of Ren [member="Ara Ren"] – both who had helped and shaped him in more ways than one to being here now.

Would he seem them at the Military Ball? Maybe, maybe not. Either way, if they expected the Connor of old they would be quite disappointed, or maybe relieved?

With the generous donation made for a ticket in the city, Connor was suited and ready to watch, listen and observe a mighty Order at work to celebrate and remember their past, present and future. He was a little out of his comfort zone, but he had a sharp charcoal grey suit for just such an occasion that had little use. He slicked his hair and tied the small goatee he sported. The wound under his left eye, still untreated and a reminder of the path he had taken getting here. It was a wonderful keepsake.

The music was loud. The atmosphere was buzzing. The aura around him was tainted with darkness.

He collected his wristband, feeling for the first time like he didn’t stick out as Connor Harrison, former Jedi Master.

He took a deep breath and walked through past the magnificent presence of armed Stormtroopers and lavishly dressed executives and he felt part of the crowd being Connor Harrison, Dark Side initiate.

 

[Nisha Skaiyr]

Tenloss Ambassador.
Speed Loader.
Extra Rounds.
Sonic Grenade.
Boot Knife.
Kahre Narsa.

Sorted carefully in a duffel bag secured with more security than a king's vault were the things that Nisha loved, stripped from her in a perverse, reverse arming sequence. Irajah had informed her that cities in general, and especially during social events, very strongly discouraged the carrying of weapons. It did not matter, apparently, that she was the Apprentice of one of the most powerful Sith in the Galaxy. No, she had to disarm.

Disarmament. The very concept made Nisha sneer in disgust. It was one thing to hope for peace, but it was another altogether to not prepare for violence. It was an utterly foolish notion, and -

"Nisha? Are you coming out? Or are you going to make me show up alone?"

Right, right. Nisha would have time to complain about the idiocy of modern society at a later date. Tonight was a night for joy, for celebration, and she'd not let her philosophical ideals get in the way of that. The Witch strolled back into the main room of Irajah's dwelling, smile hidden by her respirator but easy to see in her eyes.

In terms of apparel, she was a bit of a pragmatist.

"My Apologies, Irajah," began the Sithling, her teasing voice distorted by the machine strapped to her face. "But I had to make sure none of the guards would have reason to detain me."

---

[member="Irajah Ven"]

 

[Kaalia Pavanos]

Regret. So much regret. A simple prank pulled on [member="Ara Ren"], the only person she'd call a friend, turned out to be one of the worst ideas Kaalia ever had. Ara hated space travel, and sewing a pilot tag onto her jacket seemed like a harmless prank that could be laughed off. She was so wrong. To 'make up' for the prank, the 19-year old promised to go to the ball. What she didn't anticipate however, was the lengths Ara would go. To the young woman this felt like payback got served, but fifteen times worse. Did she deserve this? Was this a sick joke? Did Ara genuinely think it would be enjoyable for Kaalia?

And so, here she was, wearing a dress for the first time in her life, Ara spent what felt like ages on her makeup and hair, and she was wearing heels. Heels. The redhead often avoided events like this, and felt very uncomfortable. She looked around nervously, lagging behind Ara, praying the night would be over quickly. Ara hooked her arm around hers, tugging her forward. The heels made it so that the woman was going to trip up, if she didn't catch herself in time. Restoring balance, Kaalia looked at her friend with defeat on her face. "I'm just... Not used to this, and the music is really loud and-" The last remark Ara made caused the woman to fall silent as she thought over what was said. Oh no. She remembered the main reason she avoided events like this, a reason nobody but she herself knew. "Maybe if I can blend in with the crowd, nobody will notice me..." she thought to herself, looking even more uncomfortable.

Arriving at the entrance, Kaalia gave a shy nod as she handed over the ticket to the guard. She bit her lip as they walked inside, anxiously looking around hoping nobody noticed her arrival. Such hope was surely in vain, considering her confident and almost glowing friend was right beside her. She took a deep breath. "I survived a near-death experience, I survived Kaeshana. I can do this."

 

[Kay-Larr]

It had been some time since Kay had visited First Order space. Back then it was just to oversee the construction of Commenor's Embassy, followed by a ball shortly thereafter. She was President then, and now she was Queen, having been kidnapped and held captive for months, she was brought back to Commenor and executed the plans that would give her the Monarchy. All perfectly legally too, unless one looked too closely.

This was the first time that she had left the safety of Commenor since her return. The confinement of a vessel wasn't very comfortable with her, but it was a necessity. She needed to make appearances for those that were her allies, to donate and help where she could. They would be useful in the grand scheme of things.

Kay stood near the entrance to the opera house, marvelling at it's architecture. A band had been fitted across the waist of her gown as security insisted. The yellow speckles in her eyes were hidden by contacts and extensions gave her hair an added length. A small crown donned her head, indicating her Royal position. She requested no fanfair, no announcement of her arrival as she made her donation. Instead she chose to slip in quietly. More than likely that was how she was going to leave as well, if the last ball was any indication.

 

[Eldaah Aderyn]

A night of frivolity, a night of extravagance, a night to showcase the grandeur of the First Order... and most importantly, a night where all the higher-ranked members would be in attendance and their allies. Her master wanted eyes and ears and present, on the lookout for significant persons of interest. Funds had been provided, by her master, to acquire her dress and the needed donation to attend the ball.

​

She stood off to one side as guests arrived, the music elegant and yet hinting at power. She had to guess they were reveling in their victory at Kaeshana, as close as it had been according to differing reports. She smiled as she noticed a new attendee, one her master had interests in. [member="Connor Harrison"], no longer a Jedi Master, had arrived. If he noticed her, she would give an amused smile as he would know who she was there for. Still not the main person she was to look out for though, but the night was young yet, and the person she was to look for always had a taste for grandness.

 

[Matsu Xiangu]

Truly, she had little reason to be there. She’d never affiliated herself with the First Order though she wasn’t opposed to their existence either. As deeply entrenched as her self-imposed isolation was it was difficult to find her supporting even one organization, let alone two. But she had a few friends within the Order whom she might at least congratulate given their recent victory.

No, she was here specifically because this was just her sort of thing.

Perched in the limousine with black dress artfully draped around her legs, Matsu cracked a smile. “I don’t enjoy many people, no. But there’s something about a party I can’t resist. People-watching, maybe.” And the designer. Always the designer.

When Irani’s name had showed up in her inbox she hadn’t been surprised so much as expectant. It had become something of a game to guess the next time he’d crop up in her life, a bet she’d set with herself. She’d guessed 370 days, and she’d been close. 372. Thankfully it was something she’d grown quite used to and therefore the punch she gave him was more out of tradition than actual anger. She didn’t want him to feel uncomfortable after all.

“I’m surprised you pulled yourself from your work to enjoy a night out,” she shot back. The limo was slowing, perhaps getting in line among the many others taxiing in front of the venue to drop off their distinguished guests.

[member="Darell Irani"]​

 

[Ria Misrani]

Aria DuSang, perhaps one of the quietest members of the family outside of her sister Ophelia. Arrived to the Opera House with little fanfare - she had a penthouse not to far from her favorite place outside of work. She wore a simple, yet elegant black gown for the evening and as she stepped out of her limo Aria waved to the crowd. Arriving solo she left behind her two best friends to their own devices for the evening. The blonde shook hands with reporters and photographers, smiling for their pictures.

Typically, Aria spent the night at home, working. Or at work, working - work had become her new addiction. It felt like a second skin and without it she wouldn't know what to do with herself. "Aria DuSang," she said while checking in. "Thank you." The wrist band is applied just as she writes out a check to the First Order's Wounded Veterans and Memorial fund. "Hail Seiger."

"Hail Seiger, m'lady," the man replied waving her in.

Planetary Defense Guards, few Stormtroopers as well as ApeX provided security for the evening. Aria spotted a few Chiss guards as well, she suspected them of being part of the FOSB that boasted a higher non-human workforce and they favored the Chiss more so than others. Aria merely smiled as she entered into the ball, upon hearing the music she took in a deep breath. Exhaling, Aria put on a smile and began to greet other executives who had come to the ball as well as members of the military.

 

[Darlyn Excron]

Spoiler

What a sick joke this was, what a cruel timing of fate. The next set of individuals he had been put up to assess for his boss's security detail wasn't until the next weekend, yet Darlyn's employer was out and about, off world where they would be at risk without some sense of security. True, this was to an ally of theirs, but even so it was, ill advised to leave the leader of a planet's safety to someone outside their employ. And as [member="Lady Kay"]'s head of Security it fell to him to ensure her safe passage and safety in general.

And he took it seriously. Seriously enough he'd done everything he could to convince her to allow him to attend the ball as her 'plus one', assuming they wouldn't allow him in as her Security, and he'd spent much of the transit in comfort. Quite frankly, whilst it might have been uncomfortable for the Queen, he was so used to public transit the chance to not be stuck between an old woman and a drooling mess was quite enjoyable.

Straightening his new suit out, including the band around his waist given by the official event's security, Darlyn entered shortly after the Queen, interrupted only by a handful of guests entering before him. Without his usual cloak, hood, and mask, his features were rather left ope. The blue eyes, the red, rather messy hair, the scars on his neck, nothing really left to the imagination. A necessity of public roles, but an unfortunate one. Less unfortunate than the insistence of his blaster being left behind, and even his lightsaber, for security's sake, had to be hidden on the inside of his long coat. Fortunately he doubted there would be much concern, seeing as he *was* in charge of Kay's security, but even so he would take no risks.

Once inside the building, Darlyn's first instinct was to scan the crowds and potential exits. He anticipated no trouble, but habits die hard, to say the least. Immediately after he was satisfied with his assessment, he walked through to stand slightly behind Kay, bowing his head lightly. "I must say I approve of the venue. It's very beautiful, your allies know well how to throw a party it seems."

 

[Gunther Creed]

​Prosperia, Dosuun
Reimalai Opera House & Theater...


As an officer of the First Order Military, the military ball was more of a requirement that he attend than an invitation. All proceeds went to the wounded veterans and memorial fund and the overall purpose of the ball was for the men and women of the military who worked so diligently in defending the borders and keeping the worlds under the banner of the First Order safe. Gunther was already adjusting to his role as Colonel when the invitation came, the Iceman's unique ability to adapt allowing him to easily find his niche and fit in. In fact he had already been on Dosuun, specifically Avalonia when he was notified.

​In addition to his new jobs duties that brought him here another did as well [member="Valessia Brentioch"]. A woman who he had met quite some time prior and was able to get to know much better following their meeting on Brentaal IV. Valessia had been busy most of the day working hard on preparations for the ball, but there were breaks in between that he was able to see her after a ride over to Prosperia. While short visits they were ultimately pleasing, it was always good to Valessia. They were both dedicated workaholics especially these days in his new role, Gunther rarely had free time away.

​For the event it was a no brainer for the Iceman that he would wear his dress uniform, tailored specifically for formal events and celebrations of this kind. Gunther moved through the entrance of the Opera Hall clearing security, his eyes searching the crowds until they found her in a long flowing purple dress. "Ambassador Brentioch." ​Gunther said as he approached her, cracking a light smile. "Everything looks great, its shaping up to be an excellent evening."

"It's good to see you again Valessia."

 

[Jairus Starvald]

[member="Matsu Xiangu"]

It were a rare few of individuals in the Galaxy who could put him at ease.

More importantly with whom he felt at ease. Xiangu was one of them, which was probably surprising, maybe even concerning, considering her fascination with the darker arts and the things she did to further those interests. But Irani was no hypocrite, the things he had done under a different name -- Carach, Voice of the Dark Lord, His voice had brought Manaan down, conquered armies over Kashyyyk and stemmed the tide of the light on a thousand worlds and a thousands battlefields -- were in the past, but not forgotten.

They shared much together.

"Ah, you can mope only so long, before the break-up blues starts to wear on you." Irani responded with a smirk, before shrugging at the annoyance festering. "Not gone, but it's time to move on, as they say."

The limousine started to slow, he felt a fair few more in front of them, so they had the time. He relaxed.

"You look splendid as ever, it probably should concern me you find the time for that and your other interests."

 

[Connor Harrison]

The music grew louder as Connor walked inside, keeping one hand in his pocket and walking slowly to take it all in. He passed a large statue in the lobby, taking his time to read the plaque.

He didn't want to rush this, and take it all in. An evening without shackles or burden or feeling there was anything or anyone to look out for anymore. Passing by a security scanner, Connor showed his wristband and was waved through, a glance at his eye wound but that was expected from strangers.

Taking a set of stairs down, the lights cast a warm and atmospheric glow around the large hall and the music was coming from an orchestra far ahead. Connor stood again and looked around, taking in faces. Faces and dresses and suits and insignia's. Was this how backwards the Silver Jedi were? Had he really been living in some over-shadowed Jedi poverty? Makeshift dinners and balls in country homes and ice-palaces. Nothing like THIS. This was well funded and screamed nothing but decadence, effort and pride.

Nodding, he moved forward a little, glancing at some faces, and stopped as a lady passed him with a knowing smile - [member="Eldaah Aderyn"] - of all people and places.

Connor nodded, and smiled. So even here, she was watching. Simply brilliant. He'd make sure to talk to the girl later. This time as an ally.

The music swelled, and so did Connor's spirit.

The night was young.

 

[Aran Piett]

Nodding in agreeance with Sara about the opera hall, they walk in together, showing their tickets to security. Aran, liked how peaceful things were now. Though war is always inevitable, peace was much preferred.​

​

"So you said earlier about a drink, what can I get for you?"​

​

Though Aran wasn't a drinking man, he wanted to make sure Sara was happy, because if she was happy then he would be happy. Things felt pretty good for Aran when he was around her. Almost like like when he was testing out the prototype Resurgent, but better. Though military life was Aran's calling, he felt calm and peaceful around Sara, like things were right in the galaxy.​

​

​

[member="Sara Lee Jones"]​

 

[Kay-Larr]

Kay nodded a little as [member="Darlyn Excron"] approached. He had taken a little longer to get through security, so she was just a frw steps ahead of him given that she carried no weapons at all. Her Force signature was shrunk down to the size of a small tree nut to further show that she was just an ordinary lady. "Yes, the First Order spare no expense when it comes to hosting events."

She had kept to herself during the entire journey, hadn't made herself seen or heard by anyone. It could be seen as snobby, perhaps but she needed the time alone to meditate and prepare herself for anything. The last time that she was at such an event, a boy half her age tried to impose himself on her, tried to kiss her, and even asked her to join him at his apartment later. It was very awkward and after turning him down flat, she hadn't seen nor heard from him since. Such was the way of things these days. Loyalty was so hard to find.

Kay stepped further inside, spotting her Minister of Justice, [member="Connor Harrison"] . He had been away for a little while, sorting out his past so that he could better serve her in the future. How that will turn out, she didn't know.

For now though, she made her way over to the side to study the decor. "Thank you for coming with me, Darlyn. I would probably look silly arriving without some kind of escort."

 

[Natasi Fortan]

Natasi smiled as they paused on the red carpet, looking as if she was enjoying herself -- but not enjoying herself too much; there was a war on, after all. In her conservative dress and hairstyle, muted makeup and tasteful jewelry, she looked just the part. A reporter from the Cloud City Chronicle called out to her: "Who are you wearing? Is that a [member="Claire Organa"] original?" Natasi was often seen in signature looks by her usual dressmaker, a member of the royal house of Alderaan, but for this event she had chosen something closer to home. "It's actually one of my mother's gowns, made by a Madame Lafarge on Galidraan. I don't know if you know this, but there's a statue of my mother in this opera house and it's named for her, so it felt appropriate. My mother was dedicated to the arts and to brave members of the military, so it seemed like the right fit."

"And who's that with you?" pressed the reporter.

Natasi glanced sidelong at [member="Hector Finn-Camden"], then looked back to the reporters. "Another Galidraani relic, I'm afraid," she said with a genial smile. "This is Hector Finn-Camden, Duke of Westleira on Galidraan. We've been friends since we were very small, if you can imagine either of us as ever having been young." She leaned forward to hear the next question, about where [member="Darell Irani"] was, and her smile would have faltered were she not such a consummate politician. She ignored the obvious point of the question -- why wasn't he with her? -- in favor of being more literal: "I think he's attending, actually. He is very generous to causes like these and a stalwart friend of the First Order -- that's why we've always been such good friends. If you see him, tell him I say hello, but -- I'd better go in -- they're playing my song."

The Grand Moff extricated herself from the reporters, pausing to sign a few autographs and shake a few hands on the other rope-line, predominantly filled by well-wishing civilians. She turned to her right, ready to ask Sioux whether Irani had RSVP'd, but of course, Sioux wasn't there. She frowned and smoothed the bodice of her gown, then strolled forward. She had never been to this opera house before -- she had been too busy to attend its dedication, unfortunately, because she would have loved to see the statue of her mother that now dominated the room. Even in stillness, it captured her likeness very well. Her mother had been a beautiful woman and, from what Natasi remembered and had heard, a bright and lovely spirit. She felt a cold pain squeeze her chest as she read the inscription of the statue's plaque, then looked up into the face she remembered so dearly from childhood.

Would you be proud of me, Mama? For what I have built here? We followed different paths in life, but we both wanted to do good. Would you approve? The Grand Moff reached into her purse, rummaging for a kerchief as her eyes started to sting and water.

 

[Ara Zambrano]

Ara handed over her ticket, receiving the small band in exchange, frowning at it. She had purposely worn no jewelry, preferring to let her dress and natural beauty to grab attention as opposed to stones and chains. She nodded her thanks and continued anyways, tempted to dispose of the item, but unwilling to be removed from the party without it.

Her arm still linked with [member="Kaalia Voldaren"]'s, she steered them both down the stairs. Her free hand gripped the bannister, the only outward sign of her fear of even the slight height of a staircase. As soon as her feet touched the floor, she relaxed, her smile growing brighter as she was engulfed in the sounds of music and laughter. A quick glance around the room didn't reveal anyone she recognized, save the girl at her side.

"I don't know about you but I need a drink."

Grinning wickedly, she didn't wait for a response, practically dragging the younger Ren towards a platter of Champagne flutes. As the walked, Ara eyed the competition. Beautiful women in beautiful dresses were scattered throughout. One, a young lady in a gown that was reminiscent of fire, garnered her attention as she passed. The disciple nodded at [member="Skylar Walker"] in appreciation, her lips turning up in a smug grin. It was truly a stunning gown, although it was a bit over the top in Ara's opinion.

Another group caught the girl's attention as they past, a small cluster of men and an ape-like creature she had no name for. Her eyebrows winged up in surprise, and she mentally filled it away to research or ask her master about. She politely passed without a comment, deftly retrieving two thin flutes filled with golden liquid.

Turning to offer one of the glasses to her friend, she held hers up and tapped the edge of their glasses together, eyes crinkling in amusement at Kaalia's obvious awkwardness.

Ara took a long sip of her beverage, sighing as the sweet liquid hit her tongue. Other than a glass of Brandy a few days ago, spirits were a luxury she hadn't enjoyed since joining the Ren. She kept her arm linked with Kaalia's careful not to let the girl disappear into some dark corner somewhere.

"Shall we dance or shall we enjoy the music first?"

She turned her blazing smile on her companion. A familiar shock of salt and pepper hair across the room caught her attention and she smiled to herself. So [member="Connor Harrison"] had decided to attend after all. Ignoring his presence for the moment, she turned to Kaalia and raised an eyebrow in question. Which would it be, dancing or music?

 

[Valae Heavenshield]

Hyori Tal was just another face in the crowd.

A face adorned with a moderate amount of makeup, a smile, and a chin length bob to frame it all. Beneath the dark lashes, her eyes were still sharp, watching the other guests carefully – but not in a way that was obvious. Her slender form was dressed in a very feminine silhouette; her dress featured an airy and almost delicate design. It contrasted strongly with her usual aesthetic, normally dark, sleek, and with a utilitarian focus. She was not one of those women that enjoyed getting ‘dolled up’ for social occasions. There was only one other person that would understand her feelings about these types of events -- [member="sentiri"]. But it didn’t matter; tonight she would act the part.

Careful steps brought her through the crowd of guests, as she made a surprisingly graceful line towards the entrance. From here, she took up a spot near the wall and decided to do some… people watching. For some it was probably a silly pastime, but for the FOSB agent, it was a force of habit. Hyori took in the glamorous dresses and tuxedos, and silently calculated the number of weapons that could be hiding underneath these layers. Admittedly, it was a ridiculous thought, perhaps even a bit paranoid. But it was all part of her job to question these things. Her slender hand snatched up a flute of champagne from a passing tray, and she settled against the wall to enjoy herself. Hyori glanced down at the bubbling liquid in her flute and brought it to her lips for what have might have been the tiniest of sips.

She wasn’t here to party; she was here to work… At least, that was what she told herself.

There would be a number of notable First Order officials present tonight, and other dignitaries that wished to lend their support and monetary contributions. It wouldn’t hurt to have a couple sets of watchful eyes out in the crowd, silently ensuring their safety. Hyori’s dark eyes shifted, lingering on a pair that entered. She blinked once, instantly recognizing [member="Lady Kay"] and [member="Darlyn Excron"] at her side. A brow arched just slightly. After all, she had not forgotten about Bespin.

 

[Krayzen Dratos]

Cain was not someone that attended this events anymore. Most of his adult-years had been spent on various ships. Nevertheless, the Ephicanthix missed this type of events, and he was more than happy to celebrate the First Order's victory over their enemies, the Galactic Alliance; more importantly, he wished to remember the lives that had been lost when the Alliance had attacked their humanitarian mission, as well as those that had been defending the planet from the Alliance's wrath.

Having dressed to impress,Cain wore a simple suit with purple lines. He could see many individuals were of more famous than him, search as [member="Darth Prazutis"], and the Behemoth, @Malok. Cain had thought of approaching them, but had decided not to, even though the former ruled part of the nation that his father had come from.

He went to the bar, asking the waiter to get him a Corellian whiskey. Cain simply drank it, as he observed the social interactions from afar.

 

[Valessia Brentioch]

Valessia smiled, shook hands and greeted as many as she could. As always the ball brought out an interesting mix of loyalists, supporters and Imperials alike. Among the attendees tonight, [member="Darell Irani"] - and the first thought that went to her mind was that of [member="Natasi Fortan"]. If Darell was here, then this was going to be either the best evening of Natasi's life or the worst keeping her thoughts to herself she watched him with @Matsu Xiangu. She tried to recall if she had seen the woman last year, but when she could not place her she shrugged it off. [member="Lady Kay"], former President and now Queen of Commenor, Commenor was a neighbouring planet to Brentaal IV. The Ambassador gave the Queen her due respect and a thank you for the donation, and just as last year - the donation box was rising. [member="Connor Harrison"] was a new face for Valessia, she hadn't seen him around before but then again there many new attendees. Checking her chronometer Valessia departed the front of the Opera House heading toward the Concert Hall when she ran into [member="Gunther Creed"].

A warm smile now graced her features as she took Gunther's hand into hers and gave it a squeeze. The Epicanthix shadowed the Brentaalan and she didn't mind it one bit, "thank you, and it is always a pleasure to see you Colonel Creed." Never shy about her affections she stepped up on the tips of her toes to give the man a kiss on the cheek. "I have to head down to the concert hall to begin the opening ceremonies. I'll be around tonight." Valessia gave Gunther a wink and squeezed his hand again before slipping away into the crowd with her long purple dress flowing behind her. As she made her walk down toward the concert hall's backstage. She weaved in and out of the crowd greeting people as she could, the Concert Hall was filling up with those who had purchased their tickets. The ballroom was quiet, filled with one or two couples dancing. It was fun to see, in her opinion, Concert Hall on the right and Ballroom on the left - well makeshift ballroom anyway, in reality, it was a second concert hall that had been converted.

Getting backstage was interesting as she had to walk past the actual concert hall and head into the authorised personnel entrance. Down a long corridor where preparation, practice and dressing rooms were sectioned off. From there Valessia walked down another corridor that led toward the stage of the Concert Hall. Conductor Laan Kenmen, smiled as the camera from high up in the concert hall focused on him, holoscreens throughout the Opera House flickered on and showed him standing there with his instrument.

"Ladies and gentlemen, I welcome you to the second annual First Order Military Ball, on behalf of the Wounded Veterans and Memorial Fund." Setting his violin down he grabs his conductor's baton, "it is my honour and my pleasure to introduce to you the host of our ball - and Ambassador. Valessia Brentioch." Those in attendance began their applause as Valessia walked out toward the microphone on the stage. Waving to the audience and to the crowd, Valessia waited a moment or two before she began her speech for the opening ceremony. And with out further ado he waved the baton and the First Imperial Philharmonic Orchestra began to play...

[media]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bQP-b30n2xo[/media]​

"Good evening, ladies and gentlemen and welcome once again to the second annual First Order Military Ball, benefiting the Wounded Veterans and Memorial Fund," looking out from the stage she watched as attendees were still coming in, still finding their seats or walking toward the ballroom. "Tonight we celebrate the First Order Military, to honour their sacrifice and to remember the brave men and women who did not make it home. To those who gave their all while in service to His Lordship, our Supreme Leader. Seiger Ren." A small moment as she waited for the applause to settle down, "and now let us all take a moment to recite our nation's pledge." Valessia led the salute with her arm extended out, fingers pointed together as she then began to recite the pledge. The pledge's words were shown on all the holoscreens across the Opera House.

​

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We pledge to thee, Leader Supreme.​

We First Imperials, Glory, Honor and Loyalty.
Glory to the Order. Honor to the Empire.
Loyalty to His Lordship. Sacrifice in His Name.
Hail to Him, Hail to the Order.
Raise our colors for all to see, raise our banners.
So they might see, the Glory and the Honor.
Of His First Order Supreme, we Imperials true.
Bestow to Him, Glory, Honor, and Loyalty.
Hail to our Heritage, Hail to the Order.
We are Heirs of the Empire.
We are the First Imperials.
We are the First Order.




"Thank you, please be seated," the brunette said with gratitude, gesturing for those in the concert hall to take their seats. While the music grew softer into a diminuendo, "tonight your contributions will go toward building a memorial fund for those who lost their lives at Kaeshana. I'd like to also show you the results of your previous donations." Motioning to the large screen that was lowered off to her side as to not obstruct the view of the Orchestra or the Hostess. "Last year, your donations combined to one point nine million credits which afforded the First Order the ability to build and create the Battle of Castameer Memorial, honouring those who perished during the conflict. It also enabled the First Order to put into development a rehabilitation program for veterans who were grievously injured and require extensive services. The rehabilitation program not only assists our veterans but also their families, families who without your help would not be able to afford to see their loved ones who are now resting at the Oon-Ai Family Support Center at Victoria." Images of the center were put out for those to see on the holoscreens. After the applause grew quiet again,"Last year, we held a raffle - and will be doing so again this year. Raffle tickets are being sold out in the lobby so if you wish to purchase one you may." A small pause as she then concluded with, "those of you purchased dinner tickets this year, the dinning room will begin seating in an hour. Thank you again so much for your donations, enjoy the evening." With that, the Ambassador was played out with the same imperial song. Conductor Laan Kenmen approached the microphone, "and now ladies and gentlemen, who came to dance, to drink and to enjoy music performed by your lovely Philharmonic Orchestra, I present to you - the second waltz."

[media]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vauo4o-ExoY[/media]