First Order: A Rose In Her Hand

[Sara Lee Jones]

She had went to speak but stopped and listened for a minute to [member="Rolf Amsel"] before nodding " don't worry in sure the high colonel can entertain me for a bit"she said flashing a playful smile...as she did not know this man...or how he worked

My pleasure as well"She said and gave a light bow before rising and gave a small smile" well A'sharad in such a company just call me Sara ok"she said and gave a playful wink to him

And why yes i"she was cut off as she looked into his eyes...something about then just...burned at her core..she couldn't quite place nor say what though just...was so unusual...was he really human? Certainly looked so"I uhhhh yes i am a ppilot fresh out of the Academy sir"she said as she blinked a couple times
[member="Asharad Graush"]

 

[Viktor DuSang]

His mother had warned him that there would be those that viewed his abilities with loathsome animosity. She warned him to not make such vulgar displays of his natural gifts.

Viktor was no stranger to hatred. He was raised by the Sith, so he knew it well. It was their greatest asset. There was no level of passion greater than hatred. Lust was fleeting. Love loses luster with time. But hatred... Hatred is always burning. It can become all-consuming. But if you can control it, it can be the ultimate weapon.

In truth, his invitation to [member="Lady Kay"] wasn't a game. He was hoping she wouldn't have followed. As he slipped out, his eyes followed [member="William Kerkov"], not quite sure if there was going to be some animosity. He couldn't be sure. And there wasn't anything worse than not knowing.

Stepping out onto the veranda, he lit up a Coruscanti clove. Taking a long drag, he breathed the sweet smoke down into his lungs. Much to his dismay, Kay had indeed followed him. Exhaling the smoke from his nostrils, he turned to her with a smile. "Dosuun is a beautiful world. A hidden gem amongst the stars. We have a manor atop a vast mountain range west of the city. It's secluded, and frankly, quiet. Too quiet. I miss the hustle and bustle of Coruscant. If you'd like, if I could get a second date..." he said, inching towards her.

"Perhaps I could take you to all of the shops and spoil you with pretty dresses. Maybe have dinner and a holo-vid at the flat..." His lips hovered so close to her own. The sweet scent of her perfume flooded his nostrils , but the interruption of the Grand Admiral caused him to step back. The gentleman's demeanor had seemed to have changed since he had been in the ballroom. Viktor let out a sigh of relief that was just barely audible.

When he was addressed, he took a step towards the man, holding his cigarette off to the side. "Yes I am, Grand Admiral. Allow me to introduce myself. I am Earl Viktor Maurow-DuSang du Coruscant. Chief Bodyguard of Grand Moff [member="Natasi Fortan"]." he said, outstretching his hand to the Grand Admiral. "I saw that you were conversing with my father. He speaks highly of your ability as a leader and tactician."

 

[Kay-Larr]

A manor atop of a mountain range? Secluded and quiet? That was her idea of a perfect place. Many times she had rented a cabin on Bakura and enjoyed the quiet solitude. That is until bounty hunters kept crashing the party and tried to capture her. But thankfully there were no more bounties on her head. For now anyways.

[member="Viktor DuSang"] wanted a second date? You mean there's a first one? He didn't mean this was a date, did he? She thought that she was invited as his guest, along with any of her cabinet and staff. It wasn't her fault that they didn't show up. And [member="Crucifere Sin"] was already there, much to her surprise.

Viktor inched closer. Kay just stood there, trying to process the situation. And then there he was, his face less than an inch away from hers. Was he going to try to kiss her? Oh he better not. And his suggestion that she go off with him to his flat or that he could buy her affection with a bunch of pretty dresses wasn't even close to reality.

Much to her relief, and surprisingly so, [member="William Kerkov"] appeared. Kay stepped back shortly after Viktor did. Maybe going out to the veranda wasn't a good idea afterall. "Evening, Grand Admiral. It has been some time since I have seen you last. I...trust that you are well?" She kept her focus on William for the moment, yet in the back of her mind she was working on different strategies to be on her own for a bit. Maybe it was time to powder her nose? Or look for the host [member="Valessia Brentioch"] and thank her for the evening thus far. So many choices. But she decided to wait for the opportune moment to present itself first.

 

[William Kerkov Sr]

The Grand Admiral took a cigara from his breast pocket, "Depends on your definition of well, no matter what my profession I'll be dead in ten years due to these things," He twirled the cigara in his fingers, "Thirty years of these things and you'll end up with lung problems by your sixties." He lit the smoking device and took a few puffs, giving him a nice release after a long day. This was not his element, and he wanted out of it as soon as possible.

It was time for him to return a question the person he was conversing with, "So, how is your health, hopefully more promising than mine?"

[member="Lady Kay"] [member="Viktor DuSang"]

 

[Darth Libertas]

[member="Cyrus Tregessar"], [member="Ludolf Vaas"], [member="Marzena Choi"], [member="Valessia Brentioch"]


"It was quite dramatic...but appropriately so," Sumiko said sweetly in a reassuring tone. "I believe a massage can be arranged." She stroked the back of the Scion's neck a bit before sipping her champagne. However, before further conversation could ensue, they got company. Sumiko was not a crowd person.


The first newcomer she spotted was none other than Grand Admiral Tregessar. Sumiko hid her surprise well when the old warhorse approached them and claimed he recognised her, slurring his words just a bit. She was slightly taken aback, but her mask did not waver. Back in the old days, he'd been in charge of the Atrisian Empire's navy. Evidently he'd found his way to the First Order, after moving to Fringe and then the One Sith, who were falling apart. She imagined the First Order could use naval expertise if and when it came to blows with the Galactic Alliance.


The Atrisian Inquisition, also known as the Emperor's personal hit squad, had been very secret. Until Empress Madeline Kahoshi purged it following Akio's death, only two people outside of the secretive group had known about it, the Emperor and his IIB inspector. Outside of the Inquisition, Sumiko'd had a cover identity. Much like Mara Jade, people might have seen her at court and on other occasions, but none knew her actual role or Force-sensitivity.


"Grand Admiral Tregessar, yes? I believe I might've made your acquaintance during the celebrations in Jar'kai after the abortive Fringe invasion. I'm not sure I remember exact details. It was many years ago. It feels like another life time," she replied.


History lesson: The Lords of the Fringe invaded their erstwhile ally Atrisia, stuff blew up, then they decided to talk. The CIS showed up and, due to being sore losers, dropped Lucrehulks on the capital and the royal palace. Force Masters on both sides teamed up to redirect the capital ships and stop the calamity. Kerrigan got to brag about chucking Lucrehulks.


Ironically, a couple months later the Fringe got its paws on Atrisia anyway when the Atrisian invasion of Fondor was repulsed and the Emperor bowed his head and joined the Confederation. Her eyes darted towards Field Marshal Vaas and the famous pop star Lady Mazena Choi. "A pleasure to meet you, Field Marshal, Lady Choi. Valessia speaks highly of both of you," she spoke cordially. As ever, her tone was polite, but not really warm.

 

[Marzena Vaas]

Marzena stood off to the side as [member="Ludolf Vaas"] stepped up to the raffle table, her eyes momentarily on the back of his uniform as he bent to write their names. Her arms crossed in front of her, still feeling the aftershocks that had come with hearing the name Anna Yun. Most knew that the two pop divas were rivals, but few had the full story... it was something that Marzena disliked talking about.

A queue was quickly forming behind the Field Marshal, and Marzena turned to see a few sets of eyes upon her. She did her best to smile, wave, and offer pleasantries. Marzena mused that it was a wonder anyone still recognized her, with the troubling lack of First Order press lately. When she felt like her smile was about to crack, she turned towards the wall, heaving a deep sigh as she did so.

Dark lashes fluttered at the sound of Ludolf’s deep voice carrying over his shoulder, and she gazed fondly at him, even though he was still facing away. A smile grew on her painted lips, just in time for him to see it as he finally turned to face her.

A simple compliment was enough to brighten her mood, it meant quite a lot to her, especially coming from her love – a man of few words.

Marzena said nothing in response; she only squeezed his hand affectionately as they moved to greet their hostess and her date. As they reached [member="Valessia Brentioch"], Marzena placed a kiss into the air right next to the other woman’s cheek. “So lovely to see you again, Lady Brentioch. It has been far too long.”

Her gaze shifted in the direction of [member="Sumiko Tanaka"], and she offered a polite nod. “It is very nice to meet you, Lady Tanaka.” Marzena said, smiling. She took in Sumiko’s appearance for a brief moment, and gave a slight nod of approval – very chic.

“Quite a fantastic turnout tonight,” She let her gaze roam the ballroom, “It looks like the ball will be a smashing success.”

 

[Natasi Fortan]

"What can I say?" Sioux asked pleasantly. "I am very ...considerate." She toasted and clinked their glasses together, and she smiled over the rim before taking a sip of her drink. It burned her throat all the way down, and she grimaced. "Golly. You know, Natasi is always ordering me exotic cocktails when we're at events together. So I always have a new cocktail in mind for when I know I'll be drinking. This is called a Boulevardier," she explained, holding the drink up. "It's made with bourbon, campari, and sweet vermouth. He put an orange wedge and a cherry as garnishes. Before you ask -- or you, Fortan -- no, I do not know how to tie cherry stems into knots and I have no interest in learning."

She observed the progress of [member="Marzena Choi"] and [member="Ludolf Vaas"] with interest, and couldn't help but to overhear the greeting provided by [member="Sumiko Tanaka"]. She smirked and covered her lips with her hand for a moment, then shook her head, leaning close to [member="Roderik von Brinkerhoff"] to murmur confidentially, "[member="Valessia Brentioch"] had better get her friend under control. Can you imagine if Herself -- an actual Lady, mind -- heard that trollop addressed as a Lady? She belongs in the Morale Division, not a ballroom. Ms. Brentioch won't do herself any favors." The PPS let her eyes linger on the singer for a few minutes more, wondering whether her reception at the Ministry of Culture was still as warm as it had been now that she was officially out of favor, before turning her attention back to Roderik where it belonged. She smiled, the dimples in her cheek accentuated by the movement. She let him introduce her to [member="Greta Kohler"] before extending a hand. "Don't you look -- dashing," said Sioux with a pleasant smile as they shook hands. "Pleased to meet you."

When [member="Rolf Amsel"] approached, she inclined her head. She had heard good things about Amsel from the Grand Moff, and he cut an impressive figure. More impressive was his ability to procure Corellian Amber! A rare liquor, made all the more rare by the fact that Corellian had been broken into pieces. "Amsel, you devil," she said genially, leaning close to examine the bottle. After a few moments she straightened. "I'll be damned -- it's either the genuine article, or the best damned switched-label job I've ever seen. The only way to tell is by tasting." She lofted her eyebrows playfully. Damned if she was going to pass up tasting a drink that was thousands of credits a shot on the open market, if it was on offer. "How the hell did you manage?"

 

[Natasi Fortan]

Pierce took a mushroom and popped it into his mouth almost immediately, while his lady friend the Dowager Duchess took delicate bites. He turned to see [member="Greta Kohler"] join the group, his eyes tracing appreciatively down her form and back up again. "I say, Kohler," he said with a smirk. "Have you had some kind of special tailoring done on your uniform? Why does it look so much better on you than it does on the rest of us? You could make a good Nexu break its leash." He doffed his cap, causing his cigarette case and lighter clatter to the ground. He had the good grace to blush, at least, as he ducked down to pick them up, smoothing his hair with one hand before refastening the tape with the other, then plopped the cap back down on his head.

Then adjusted it a few degrees. Ah, the jaunty angle had to be perfect, or else it would become unbalanced.

"Who are we waiting for? Do we know they're coming? What's a man got to do to get a drink round here?" he complained, glancing at his chronometer, then checking the large mantle clock nearby. "I can see the headline now: Dashing, Hero Pilot Dies of Thirst Waiting on Comrade! Women of Dosuun -- scratch that, make it Women of the First Order -- Weep!" As he spoke, he put his hand up, as if the headline was appearing in front of him as he moved his hand in front of him. "Although honestly, I could eat, too."

[member="Roderik von Brinkerhoff"] | [member="Sioux Chambers"] | [member="Rolf Amsel"]

 

[Samka Derith]

Sam was a stranger to alcohol, many worlds would refuse to serve her because of her age, the nerve! Its effects were blurring and muddling the world around her in a most enjoyable way. It was as though a weight had been lifted from her shoulders, keeping up appearances no longer seemed as important instead one should simply aim to enjoy one's self. As a result, her tongue had been looser than before and girlish giggling kept erupting from her mouth as she passed strangers, overhearing their jokes or finishing them herself. However it was starting to feel a little stuffy in the main ballroom, a change of pace would be appreciated. The fresh air would do her good, Sam decided and she skipped a little too jovially to the balcony.

A happy sigh escaped her lips as she stuck her elbows on the cool stone balcony. Sam thrust her head back and gazed at the stars above. With everything she'd seen now, events like this seemed so... tiny. She'd already experienced so much in the short time she'd been active in the galaxy, met so many interesting people. She could almost hear them speaking now. In fact, she was sure that she could. Sam paused, pulling her mind back to the ball. It seemed impossible in a galaxy so large but she would swear that the voice she heard belonged to [member="Lady Kay"].

Sure enough and against all odds, the woman was here and accompanied by none other than [member="Viktor DuSang"]. That was not a pairing the young Ren ever expected to see. "My goodness," Sam abruptly interrupted whatever conversation was underway, all sense of social tact impaired by alcohol, "how surprising! It is I!" Sam took off the domino mask she was wearing in case her identity was too difficult for them to work out but quickly donned the mask once more. "Of all the places and all the company, this I did not expect!" She turned to the third figure in the conversation, [member="William Kerkov"], he was a stranger but his uniform marked him as a Grand Admiral and thus worthy of the utmost respect. Sam curtsied before the man and introduced herself, "Samka Derith, the prodigy who shall shape the fate of the galaxy and guide our people to total victory." She spoke without a hint of irony. "Lady Kay and I met when I detained her and her crew on suspicion of terrorism. DuSang and I crawled through a radioactive, mutant infested sewer together," Sam shuddered at the filthy memory.

Next she paused, reading Lady Kay's face. As inhibited as the girl may be, there were some signs that were unmistakable and transcended culture no matter where in the galaxy you were born and that was someone looking for an escape from an unwanted social situation. Throwing Lady Kay a bone, Sam stood up straight and assumed a much more formal and assertive manner. "Actually this reminds me. I have a few additional questions about the Bespin incident upon reviewing the security footage and speaking to witnesses. Would you care to speak in private? I won't hold you long."

 

[Roderik von Brinkerhoff]

Roderik could not help but grin at the grimace displayed by [member="Sioux Chambers"] as she took of her drink, and he swallowed a measured amount of water from his glass. He seldom drank alcohol, though he abstained for purely physiological concerns as opposed to any moral qualms with the intake of alcohol. He maintained a highly athletic quality tailored for endurance, and any amount of alcohol would degrade that endurance and so he chose to abstain in order to maximize his potential as a starfighter pilot -- that dedicated was he, to his chosen profession.

His grin intensified as he noticed [member="Nils Brenner"]'s arrival, while simultaneously listening to Sioux's explanation of her drink of choice for the evening, as well as the verbal jab towards [member="Pierce Fortan III"].

"Lieutenant, just in time!" He returned Nils' mock salute with a casual salute of his own, followed by an outstretched hand. He followed that by pleasantly shaking the hand of his date, Anna Volker. "A pleasure," he began, before being cut off by the initiation of the First Order's pledge of allegiance. The captain, like the others, turned to face the flags of the First Order.

When the pledge had been completed Roderik turned back to the growing group -- increasing again as [member="Greta Kohler"] found her way to the others shortly after, flustered as though she ran laps at the nearest athletic facility, though her uniform was impeccable - much like Nils, and Pierce.

"No cause for concern, Lieutenant Kohler." His expression was jovial, "Late only matters for the important things." He didn't necessarily intend it as a dig at the nature of the event, formal balls with open bars and full of people to observe abusing said open bars, was always a treat. But it didn't have the same sense of urgency as did any professional appointment - be it pre-mission-briefing, or dental checkup by First Order medical specialists.

The group had reached critical mass, Roderik thought to himself as they intermingled for a moment. He was about to set them all off, each one an emissary of the greatness of the Starfighter Corps, when another individual made his presence known. Sergeant [member="Rolf Amsel"], as he introduced himself. Bearing gifts, as well.

"You're too kind, Sergeant." He said with a smile, his attention drawn to Sioux's inspection of the bottle, before switching back to Rolf, "I'm Captain Roderik von Brinkerhoff, and these fine fellows are the 100th fighter squadron." He gestured towards his uniformed companions.

"It's only fair to join us for a round or two, now." Pierce would have to drink for two, since the Captain would be holding off.

 

[Kay-Larr]

Kay smirked to [member="William Kerkov"] as he was blaming his future death on smoking. No doubt the battlefield would claim him before any lung problems. "I am well, thank you. Life is full of ups and downs. Right now I am enjoying an upswing." Though she was also preparing for the time when her term runs out, or when she is removed from office. Whichever comes first. This time she won't be left homeless."

The almost familiar voice of [member="Samka Derith"] rang out in the air. And then there she was, obviously just as surprised. The young Knight of Ten did indeed have her arrested, but terrorism? Hardly. She glanced over to [member="Viktor DuSang"] for a moment. Of course the two would know eachother for they are the same. Kay knew that her pilot Terrac was still recovering from having his mind ripped into due to that incident on Bespin. Hopefully he would get over it soon.

She raised a brow as Samka inquired to ask her more questions. It was an odd time and place to do so, but at least it would give the men a chance to talk without any ladies present. "Of course. Gentlemen, will you please excuse us?" Kay bowed her head and then walked back inside, looking for a secluded place for them to talk. Hmmm. There wasn't a whole lot. She led Samka over to one of the side walls where there wasn't many people around. Alright. What is it that you need to know?"

 

[Valessia Brentioch]

Valessia was quite pleased with how the ball was turning out, "it is, isn't it?" She said to Marzena, "I hope we're able to raise enough money for the new memorials, to honor those lost in the recent expansions." A voice of sincerity and earnest, "did you two by chance enter into the raffle? I couldn't believe I manage to convince some of the four-star travel agencies to part with some of those packages!" This much was true, but then when you work directly for the Grand Moff, you can manage just about anything with enough charisma.

"And Field Marshal Vaas, let me get a look at you," she took a step back and smiled with pride, "it suits you, you know, absolutely splendid." While Valessia wanted to gush about being hired on as a Trade Representative, she felt perhaps that might spoil the moment and instead, she heard the music change up, "oh this is my favorite to dance to, if you'll excuse us, Field Marshal Vaas, Lady Choi."

[media]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KBwNo8ew-nk[/media]​

"Might I have this dance," she asks Sumiko as they head toward the dance floor, and then low in a whisper, "I've missed you, you know." Valessia probably said it earlier in the evening but she meant it, every word of it. She had missed Sumiko both their ambitions led them to opposite ends of the Galaxy, "I'm glad you came." Her eyes were soft as they danced to the song being played, following along with the crowd.

[member="Marzena Choi"] | [member="Ludolf Vaas"] | [member="Sumiko Tanaka"]​

 

[Horus]

Four individuals stood at the door, all dressed in regal military attire of the Commonwealth. Of the four, both men and one lady wore the white formal uniform of the Commonwealth Navy, while the other lady wore a more traditional sarge green uniform of the Marine Corps. Although the lady on Horus' arm was closer to his age, perhaps fifty with a gentle flare of grey hair amidst her curls, the others were much further in age to the venerable seventy year old Lord of Admirals.


Dean Letham paid the door fee for the group and followed Horus and Marguerite Podolsky in. His eyes squinted when he saw perhaps a hint of recognition on Marguerites face. He didn't trust Naval Intelligence, then again, no one in the military did. They were the last to surrender during the civil war, and Marguerite is a noblewoman. Her intentions were unclear, but the director cleared her for service before he and the Commander-In-Chief vanished during the Netherworld event.

He was responsible for the protection of Horus now, the sole heir of the Commonwealth till such a time as new candidates are chosen to be apart of the Commonwealth Security Council, the CSC. Hadiyya must have seen his discomfort and gently squeezed his arm, speaking roughly in a whisper, "Calm Dean, we're on thin ice out here. We don't know much about the First Order, Horus just wants to secure our national security." She stared him dead in the eyes before turning to smile at a guest, "I don't trust Podolsky either, but there's nothing we can do about it, Horus trusts her - I think."

"Y'know, Hadiyya, you look good when you're not in your kit," Dean smiled as they slowly followed behind the Admiral. They looked out of place at the ball. The formal military gown Hadiyya wore did little to hide her muscles, she was a freak of nature compared to the dainty ladies at the ball. With her smooth shaven head, arms and legs ripped with muscle, she could have been mistaken for some military grunt straight out of cadet school and apart of some elaborate prank in a dress.


Horus scanned the crowd, assessing those present. Of those at the ball the only man he felt compelled to speak to was one of similar uniform of his own. Marguerite leaned closer, whispering words into his right ear. To others it may look like a lovers sweet words, but in truth she was informing Horus of the mans status, "William Kerkov, Grand Admiral of the First Order, tread carefully." By the time she had stopped speaking he was within arms length, his hand extended, "Horus, Commonwealth representative here tonight." He motioned to the lady on his arm, and then the other couple with him, "My date, and family." A gentle lie.

| [member="William Kerkov"] | [member="Viktor DuSang"] |

 

[Quietus]

The quietude in which the Kuatian Sovereign arrived was not necessarily out of character for her but it was unusual in a galactic scale of things. Having received the invitation and made no promises, Lorelei also made no announcements as to her decision to attend. Forgoing even the use of the Herald, her title and namesake remain unspoken as she descended into the fervor of festivities. A hushed murmur followed in her wake, passing intel from person-to-person, to those that aught to know or would even care to.

Deep midnight blue adorned in exquisite gold trim was the choice for the evening, making a sharp contrast to the otherwise pale skin and hellfire curls of the galactic drive yard magnate. Somewhere within the crowd was a man seeking redemption and completely unsuspecting of her company.

[member="Avicus DuSang"]

 

[Darth Libertas]

[member="Valessia Brentioch"]


Further away, the Grand Moff's PPS ([member="Sioux Chambers"]) was shooting acidic barbs about titles and social faux pas. Sumiko was too haughty to take an interest. She cared little for the peculiar and often petty blue blood culture since she had the Force.


The aforementioned Force was the pathway to many abilities that could be useful, destructive, plain absurd or all three. In this particular situation, it gave her the heightened perception to sense that [member="Marzena Choi"] was with child, though she still had a slim figure. But her heart did not merely beat for herself and there was the faintest trace of a second presence residing inside her.


Valessia complimented Field Marshal [member="Ludolf Vaas"]' uniform, then the music changed up. The dance floor was soon being filled with guests who wanted to engage in what was commonly called a walzer. That was a classical, civilised way of dancing. No 'wild' alien dances and music could be expected to soil the dancing hall of a nation as dedicated to the good old values of Human High Culture as the First Order!


She gave a polite nod to Mazena and Vaas. "Please excuse me. The dance floor calls," then she followed Valessia to the aforementioned dancing floor. "Certainly," she spoke when the Scion asked for a dance and took her hand. The Atrisian was not a great dancer, but certainly miles better than that troglodyte Siobhan Kerrigan, though that might be a case of damning with faint praise since the crimson-maned Countess danced as well as a certain Commander in another galaxy!


In other words, Valessia would be in no danger of having her feet trod on, Sumiko had actual rhythm and would not suffer embarrassment. She flushed slightly at the Scion's softly whispered words. "I missed you as well," she admitted. "I'm glad to be here with you, even if it means putting up with crowds and more aristos."

 

[Samka Derith]

Sam giggled at [member="Lady Kay"], "Oh I have nothing to add on the subject right now, you know how to contact me if something comes up." There was a pause before she added rather more menacingly, "Which you will, of course." She returned to her friendlier demeanour, "No I thought you seemed to be struggling out there a bit and I should lend a helping hand."

Sam sighed, leaning her head back against the wall as she took in Lady Kay's appearance. "You look lovely tonight by the way, my dear," Sam offered up a smile. She actually meant it as well which was rare. "I don't know why I care..." Sam started earnestly, "but be careful of Viktor, yes? You're an intelligent woman so I shouldn't have to tell remind you that he's, well, one of us." Samka raised a meaningful brow, Kay of all people should be aware of what a Knight of Ren was capable of.

"So!" She spoke loudly, "Give me the gossip. Was this supposed to be an evening of romance for you?"

 

[Kay-Larr]

Kay raised a brow slightly as [member="Samka Derith"] seemed to almost switch personalities. It gave her a more darker appearance and perhaps that was the purpose. Afterall, not many would deem someone so young to be a threat. As Sam complimented her on her dress, she of course looked down at it and then up at her, smiling a little bit with a bow of her head. "Thank you. Having to dress like this comes with the position. And I suppose with the event as well. It's my first time being invited to a First Order event. I'm sure the next one will be the opening of the Commenor Embassy."

At Sam's warning, she chewed the inside of her cheek a bit. Yes, [member="Viktor DuSang"] was one of the Knights of Ren as she was learning, so of course she had to be extra careful. That is unless she had wanted her secrets to be exposed. The Elders told her not to lie if it was revealed, so instead she just tried to avoid it if at all possible.

Kay then laughed a bit at Sam's suggestion of it being an evening of romance. "That certainly wasn't the plan on my part. Though I think that Viktor may have had other ideas....as I had just found out. I've been a widow for four times longer than I was married. I suppose that that's all that I know how to be. So that keeps the majority of them away from me that are just looking for a conquest or another notch in their belt.

What about you? What was your plan for the evening? Besides rescuing Presidents from unsolicited affection, that is."

 

[William Kerkov Sr]

The Grand Admiral took in the sight of Horus and his, entourage. As the Commonwealth representative introduced himself he looked questionably at the large woman in service dress, somewhat out of her element at this event. Kerkov shook the Lord of Admirals out reached hand, "Grand Admiral Kerkov, First Imperial Navy, First Order. It is a pleasure to make your company Horus," Kerkov paused, "and your family." The Imperial Naval officer gestured to his own wife, one of the few Twi'leks present at the ball, "My spouse Siata, who accompanied me to the event."

Kerkov opened a breast pocket under his uniform taking out two cigaras, "Do you smoke?" The Grand Admiral studied the man, he was probably only ten years older then the Grand Admiral, but by far he had not aged as well as the Terminusian, a thought Kerkov would keep to himself. The Commonwealth he had mentioned earlier in his introduction sounded familiar to the old navy dog, but he could not pin point where he had heard of the government.

[member="Horus"]

 

[Horus]

Horus found it quite odd having his companions addressed as his family. The only family he had known were back in Alexandria ten feet under, no thanks to him. He was nobleborn, but he had the heart of the people and their blood running through his veins. He rose up and dismantled the monarchy, and of all the nobles left he was but one of only a handful. Few wanted to bend the knee to the Commonwealth, so some were exiled, most were executed.

"I'm afraid I swore an oath to serve my people, and if need be, die for them, I don't intend to die for a cigara," he smiled a warm smile and waved his hand to decline the offer, "Albeit the offer is much appreciated." He studied him briefly before he spoke again, assessing the man. He was perhaps in his fifties, as opposed to the venerable Lord of Admirals who was soon to have his seventy-third celebration since birth. "How did you come to be Grand Admiral? If I may ask," he asked earnestly.


[member="William Kerkov"]

 

[Avicus DuSang]

[member="Zee"] had resisted her own murderous instincts from his display of surprise. She was wise to do so. She spoke, and he could only smirk. "Dead?" he said, finishing her sentence. "No. Simply forgotten."

He looked at her, beginning to circle her. "Please, it's Fleet Admiral now. If you must call me by a title. There are no need for such formalities." He frowned slightly when she talked about not being the actual Xyra. His mind drifted to [member="Viktor DuSang"]. Would his son feel the same when he discovered the truth? He certainly hoped not.

"My dear, do you have any idea why the Shiva Protocol was put into effect? Because there would always be a need for a Xyra Sizhran in the Galaxy. My Empire has crumbled to dust. A footnote in the history books. I promise you that you are as much Xyra Sizhran as the original. Except you have a wide open Galaxy to find your place. It could be here, with us in the First Order. We could certainly use a woman of your particular skill set."

Picking up his drink, yellow eyes landed on [member="Cait Falcor"]. "Tell me, Xyra, who's your friend? She's quite striking." But his thoughts were distracted. Yellow eyes scanned the crowd, feeling her before seeing her. His gaze rested on [member="Lorelei Darke"], finishing his drink. Setting it down, he turned to the pair. "Hold that thought, ladies. I'll be right back..."

Like a shadow, he approached her. She was beautiful basked in darkness. She was beautiful bathed in light. Taking her hand, his lips ran along her palm, resting on her wrist for the briefest of moments. "I didn't think you'd come..." He breathed in the soft scent of her skin, her hand slowly slipping from his grasp. "But, I'm glad to see you."