First Order: A Rose In Her Hand

[Jairus Starvald]

[member="Pierce Fortan III"] | [member="Natasi Fortan"]

Irani watched on with amusement as Natasi strode off, fire in her eyes as her target was made clear.

"Ahh, I will never get used to how much she truly cares." He spoke up, tone of confidentiality. Like they were the only two people in the room that mattered for the moment. This in itself was Irani's true blessing; not a plausible mastery of the Force, the way he could quite literally bend the minds of those around him with ease, not his power derived from corporations or political maneuvering, nor his widespread connections through the various galactic communities.

No, it was this, the ease of charming those near him with just a word here, a pat of the shoulder there. It had been his strength as the Voice of the Dark Lord - fulfilling objectives simply by speaking and convincing people of his righteousness by a mere word. But now it was aimed at less... dazzling approaches.

Like charming the family of his future wife-to-be.

"It's quite rare to find a woman so competent and frighteningly astute, whilst also having a penchant for the dramatics and the deeper emotions," A sip of the glass followed. "Wouldn't you say, Lord Fortan?"

His eyes wandered across the ballroom, a nod was send here and there when they connected with individuals of note. Then his brows furrowed when the Couples' Dance was announced.

"Hmm, it seems like I should go and fetch my lady friend, if you'd excuse me?"

 

[Natasi Fortan]

Natasi finished with her blusher and looked at herself in the mirror. What a wonder makeup was. It could cover up all manner of blemishes. The swipe of a brush could make eyes appear that much larger, more emotional. The brush of color could make colors of eyes and clothes appear that much more vivid. Makeup could even add color and life to the face of a woman who felt nothing but dull, grey exhaustion. Finally satisfied, Natasi tucked her makeup back into its bag, and the bag back into her clutch. "I think we can start by sharing a vanity counter without exchanging harsh words," she said quietly, her eyes avoiding Marzena's own as she turned to her. "Perhaps next time we can try waving and smiling. But I'd hate to push it."

She stepped back from the mirror and turned, so she could examine the 'fall' of her dress from multiple angles as she looked over her shoulder, then recoiled as the pair of women came bounding in. They looked and sounded like they had indulged in the bar already. Natasi lofted her eyebrows and said, "That's my cue. Good evening." Her voice was somewhat gruff, as if she had just come down with a congesting cold. At the door, she stopped and turned to look back at [member="Marzena Choi"]. Something in he told her she would regret leaving it at that without making just one more small effort. She cleared her throat, swallowed, and said -- over the cacophony of young women's hyena-laughter: "By the way, I regret that I didn't have the chance to thank you for that beautiful bouquet. What a lovely gesture. Please say hello to Field Marshal Vaas for me." She bowed her head briefly and then exited the restroom, to see [member="Darell Irani"] coming her way and Pierce waltzing off with his lady friend.

"I heard there was a couple's dance," she told Irani, her eyes brightening a little. Natasi put her hand in his and and turned back towards the ballroom. "Sorry about that. I just realized that with all the fuss with the tour, I'd forgotten to thank Ms. Choi for the lovely flowers she gave me to congratulate my promotion. It's been weeks and I felt like such a heel." She smiled apologetically. "I've been dying to dance with you. Will you, please?" They stopped on the edge of the floor and she cocked her head towards the floor. "What about it?"

 

[Graf's Archive Account]

Being late to a ball was considered 'fashionable' to most, but being late without a date was just plain tacky no matter how you put it. At the age and position Keever was at, finding a compatible person to bring for the night would be nigh impossible given the fact that he was old enough to be considered a father to about 99.9% of the Order. Nevertheless once he got over the initial workload after being placed into office as the planetary governor of Thakwaa, Keever was determined to make a public appearance other than his inauguration speech in front of an amassed crowd of thousands, and once his invitation came from Dosuun to his office on day one, nothing on his part was going to stop him.

He had bought a new suit to compliment his new position, and unlike most if not all of his other suits, it was made out of an elegant fabric that had been harvested on Thakwaa itself, tailored to fit him and only him perfectly without so much as a single discomfort, eliminating the need to spend half the night trying to keep the suit from choking his shoulders to death when he raised his arms more than a bloody centimeter. As long as he didn't throw up all over it when he got hammered from the free bar, everything would be fine.

The old man stepped into the glamorous dancing hall that lay ahead of him, dozens of people were currently in the midst of what appeared to be a couple's dance, at a glance he saw a couple of famous figures within the order, such as the Grand Moff herself and the Field Marshal and his date, there may have been others but they were moving too fast for his one eye to register their faces.

Keever circled around the floor till he reached the bar for a large glass of brandy, picking it up from the counter with a grin and taking a large swig, he would then proceed to scout around for social situations that he could enter, after all being a loner got you no where in politics, he'd have to socialize a lot with people even if he didn't care much for them.

Politics sucked.

 

[Sentiri]

Sentiri audibly sighed. She rarely sighed, and even more rare was for one to be audible. But knowing that the woman had succeeded in putting a clothing ensemble together and making it work for her was an incredible relief; not to mention the difficulty she had to face just in order to make herself "presentable" and even just to arrive at the door. And that relief was worth expressing, especially to the person who had assisted her most in the process. Even if Sentiri couldn't appreciate fashion to the level that [member="Marzena Choi"] did, the Chiss woman could at least appreciate the advice and the knowledge gained.

"Thank you, Marzena. And thank you for your assistance. I would have been incapable without it." Sentiri nodded to the singer as the woman parted ways with them. "Your company is always welcome, Miss Choi."

The Chiss woman's hands were loosely clasped in front of her. She was used to folding them across her chest but knew that such a scornful pose was not welcoming at a social event. With all the fluster of her preparation, transit and arrival, she had entirely forgotten to truly take in the crowd as a whole. In the brief moment she was turned away from the Field Marshall, Sentiri looked around and observed just how expansive the group was. The crowd seemed to stare back and Sentiri silently felt some dread creep into the back of her mind.

They aren't looking at me. They're looking at a pop star and the highest ranking Army officer in the First Order. The woman rationalized away her fear. Truth or not, it helped. Her stoic face, though, remained a stone shield for the inner mechanisms of her psyche.

As she turned back to face the Field Marshall, she caught one last glance. A woman, blonde, fair, tall. Sentiri resisted raising a brow as the other woman's grey-blue eyes shifted back to the path she walked. For all the glances that Sentiri felt from the crowd that made her anxious, there was something different about that one. Why? It made no sense.

Sentiri's thoughts did not linger. She returned her attention to her superior. "Nothing too important," Sentiri responded to [member="Ludolf Vaas"] in reference to Marzena who was several paces away by then. "I am lacking in fashion sense," the Chiss woman continued bluntly, though without self-deprecation. "Miss Choi was quick to realize this when we crossed paths at the Ministry of Culture. She offered her assistance." Sentiri's hands opened, gesturing to her outfit candidly. "Her knowledge on the subject is impressive. I still have much to learn."

As the Deputy Director spoke, her gaze once more peered out among the crowd. Her red eyes caught the figure of the tall, blonde woman whose glance still puzzled Sentiri. T human woman was dancing with an officer whose name Sentiri could not immediately recall but whose face seemed familiar. There were many such people at the gala, and the Chiss desired a moment to collect her thoughts.

"Excuse me, Field Marshall. I desire speaking to you further but it has been a long day and I could use a drink. May your evening be enjoyable if we do not cross paths again tonight."

With another slight bow, Sentiri turned and made for the expansive bar. Chiss were not known for their alcohol. They had plenty of wines, but rarely were they ingested for the purpose of intoxication or even relaxation. Instead, those beverages were designated as a formal offering at gatherings, signifying some sort of business or political arrangement. The most casual drinks were still intended to be proper pairings with a meal. But Sentiri had spent enough time around humans to understand the other effects well enough. She had no desire to test her metabolism, but she did desire something that would help with her anxiety and the stress that had built up over the day.

Perhaps she was becoming more and more human.

"Cognac, neat. Bakuran, if you have it." After receiving her drink from the bartender, Sentiri stood next to the bar and sipped her drink, trying to place names to the faces she saw walking past.

[member="Valessia Brentioch"]​

 

[Marzena Vaas]

A hint of a smile appeared on Marzena’s face, but her head remained slightly bowed. Both women were doing their best to avoid meeting eyes too often or for too long. Indeed, the two former friends had made the first stride in the right direction – standing so close, words spoken in calm and sincere tones, and no tears had been shed. But she agreed, they should not push it. After all, their wounds were still healing, and attempting to rush the process could make things worse.

One step at a time.

Marzena stepped to the side as Natasi began to move swiftly towards the door. And over the irritating sound of the two women next to her, she heard the Grand Moff’s voice one more time.

“I am glad you liked them,” She offered a smile that was laced with warmth, “Have a good evening, Grand Moff.” Marzena nodded, watching as the graceful form of Natasi slipped back out into the crowd. She let the door fall closed once more, and waited for a moment or two before making her own way back to the party. Her hands slid down over the smooth surface of her dress, she drew in a breath, and then pushed the door open.

Marzena’s dark eyes spotted [member="Natasi Fortan"] with her date; though she hadn’t been presented with the chance to say so – she did want the Grand Moff to be happy. Perhaps someday, the two would be able to see each other without being reminded of such unpleasant times.

Her hand rose in a small wave to [member="Ludolf Vaas"] as she approached, smiling as she made her way back to him. Marzena noticed that [member="Sentiri"] had moved on to the bar, and the Field Marshal was now standing alone. As she saw him through the crowd, his dark form stood out to her, just as it had the night they met. A tiny blush found its way onto her cheeks, and she felt as though she could fall for him all over again. “So sorry, darling!” She smiled, delicate hands sliding up on to his shoulders, and her body moving close once more.

“I ran into the Grand Moff,” Marzena started quietly, but quickly flashed Ludolf a smile to signal that she was okay. “Just a bit of girl chat, you know.” She added, there was no need to go into details here. “She says hello.” Marzena passed along the message, and gave his shoulders a gentle squeeze.

“Shall we join in?” Her gaze shifted back towards the dance floor, where happy couples were now starting to dance.

 

[Ludolf Vaas]

After Marzena departed for the bathroom, Ludolf was left temporarily in the company of [member="Sentiri"].

"Ah yes, well." He smiled and reared his head back in amusement after hearing what Marzena had been up to with the Deputy Director. Simultaneously, he grabbed a drink off the tray of a passing waiter. "Marzena is good with that sort of thing. It looks like she did a good job tonight," Ludolf remarked on Sentiri's outfit.

It seemed that [member="Marzena Choi"] had been keen to make herself quite useful here at the First Order. Now he'd learned that his date had been going around giving fashion advice to members of High Command. Vaas chuckled to himself as he sipped his beverage.

"Have a good evening, Sentiri," Vaas nodded as the Deputy Director excused herself, and then shortly afterward Marzena reappeared from the bathroom.

Ludolf found it hard to believe that Marzena had just had a civil conversation with [member="Natasi Fortan"] in the ladies' room, as evidenced by the eyebrow he cocked when Marzena mentioned it. "Oh?" He questioned, examining her face. There were no black eyes or scratch marks, so things couldn't have gone all that bad, he supposed. Ludolf would take her word for it. "Well, if you say so. Yes, let's dance."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_FQdSBJuca4&list=PLaUXQZQE-byVIHPJx1ekH_FLP3zF6hGm0​

Ludolf set his drink aside on a table and took Marzena back to the dance floor, where he once again wrapped his hands carefully around her waist. The lights had dimmed significantly, where Marzena's face was partially masked in shadow and the strobes above glistened off her open eyes. Ludolf held her close as they moved slowly across the dance floor in a gentle sway, a movement that relied more upon energy and intuition than thinking, in contrast to before. As the two moved, Ludolf felt his wavelength sync with Marzena's, and he dared not to speak lest the delicate connection disappear. On the dim dance floor they moved as one, awash in the rainbow of neons that rained down on them from above.

As the dance ended, Ludolf released her slightly and offered her a smile. "Let's go outside," He said quietly.

 

[Valessia Brentioch]

"And now ladies and gentlemen, Mr. N'Claughlim with his song, So Close, for the Emperor and Empress's Waltz."

[media]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q2WHo5bGRNw[/media]​

As the young man began to sing, Valessia's heart was definitely a puddle of mush. Here she was, dancing with [member="Sumiko Tanaka"] who in her opinion was the most beautiful woman in this room. They fell into step dancing with the other couples the Waltz had them going in a circular motion, but at this moment there were only two people. Valessia and Sumiko, two ambitious women with different goals each had a want and craving for power. Each desired something more, and yet - as the song went on she couldn't help but be swayed by the words. So close to reaching that famous happy end, almost believing this one's not pretend...

The lights had dimmed but not too much, just enough - for there were still others in the ball, eating and drinking, being merry. "Sumiko," Valessia says her heart still in her throat, and she wants to say things, but she doesn't want to push, "thank you." She says instead, even if her eyes convey something more. The lights dances on their faces, and over their forms. She watches as [member="Ludolf Vaas"] and [member="Marzena Choi"] are afforded the luxury of leaving the dance floor. Valessia isn't - she's the hostess and thus she must be there to tend to everything. Her entire body speaks of something more romantic, the way she dances with Sumiko how her hands hold onto her. So I bid my goodbye and never knew so close, was waiting, waiting here with you.

As the orchestra played up into a crescendo, Valessia and Sumiko continued to dance. A spotlight began to play along the main couples now working their way into the center, which included [member="Natasi Fortan"] and [member="Darell Irani"], and quite possibly a certain pair of Dark Lords. Some of the more conservative members of the Order were not pleased with the idea that the woman who worked for Natasi, was - with another woman. But most paid no mind, only the staunchest of bigots had an issue with it. And as the music began to quiet down, Valessia drew Sumiko closer to her. Oh, how could I face those faceless days if I should lose you now? We're so close, to reaching - that famous happy end, almost believing - this one's not pretend, let's go on dreaming though we know we are... So close, so close and still so far...

 

[Kay-Larr]

It was getting chilly out on the veranda, and Kay didn't bring a jacket or cloak with her. Goosebumps riddled the skin on her arms, letting her know that she couldn't delay it any longer. She had to go inside. Fortunately the dancing seemed to be coming to an end and the evening had quieted down. Kay made her way over to one of the drink tables and asked a server for some tea while she rubbed some warmth back into her arms. Avalonia had a slightly different temperature than she was used to on Commenor.

When her tea finally arrived, she took it with her as she headed over to the raffle booth and purchased a ticket. There was something lucky about buying a ticket late. It always felt as though the odds were slightly increased. Whether or not she won anything was beside the point.

Kay kept her ticket in hand as she sipped her tea and tucked herself away against a wall. The night air was still clinging to her, but the tea was helping. She looked around, not able to see [member="Viktor DuSang"] anymore, nor anyone else that she knew. Perhaps when the evening was done, she'd buy her own transport back to Commenor instead of trying to hunt down the young Knight in order to get a ride back home. Perhaps he had left already, as she had turned down his advances. It was hard to say. But she was resourceful, so there was never any worry about whether or not she'll make it home.

 

[Valessia Brentioch]

"I have to go," Valessia whispers to Sumiko and points to the stage, "I'll be back in a minute or ten." She pushes her lips to the side and then turns on her heels and heads up toward the stage. There's the conductor, making motions for the ballroom to hold an applause, and the orchestra struck up a soft but familiar tune. A reprisal of the earlier Imperial March. The Hostess cleared her throat and in her hands, she held a set of small index cards marked IMPERIAL BALL. In gold lettering and she waited for those in attendance to either take their seats or hold still for a moment or two. "Good evening again, ladies and gentlemen. I welcome you to the interlude of tonight's ball, and I am proud to announce that we have more than exceeded our goal." She holds for applause as she steps off to the side, a large screen goes down behind her and shows the fundraising numbers.

"Because of your contributions, and the matched contributions of tonight's sponsors. The First Order Memorial Fund is now going into their stretch goal, and that would be raising money for those wounded in action, whose families are in need of financial support while their loved ones recover." Another hold for applause, "now I do have the small prizes winners for tonight's raffle in my hand, but before we get there. Let us celebrate the men and women who gave their all for us, the First Imperial Orchestra and Chorus," the curtain and screen behind her rise to show the chorus that have gathered. "Will sing the First Imperial Military Medley, starting with the Home Territories Militia, and as they play tonight. I ask that members of the Military stand proud for their division as their song are sung so that we might salute and honor you. Hail Seiger!"

And Valessia stepped off to the side to let the chorus and orchestra play, and she'd simply announce. "First Imperial All-Surface Guard!" We're always ready to do or die! All-Surface Guard, we fight for you! ... - "Starfighter Corps!" Off we go into wild space yonder! ... - "First Imperial Navy!" Moors Aweigh my friends! Moors Aweigh! ...- "First Imperial Marines!" From the Halls of Avalonia, to the shores of Varonat... "First Imperial Army!" March along and sing our song, with the Imperial Army, count the brave, count the true who have fought for victory! After the three minutes and change, she walked back to the podium. "Now it is my pleasure, to introduce you from the First Imperial Medical Services, Major Leona Eldrel."

The blonde, slim and slender Major walked from where she was and that was by the bar. Crossing to the stage, she walked up the steps and took to the podium, "thank you Representative Brentioch, and now ladies and gentlemen if you will all take a moment to remember those who are not with us, those who have fallen and given their lives for the First Order."

- - - - - -​

"Thank you, thank you for honoring those who may no longer be here in body but are always with us in spirit, now it is my pleasure to introduce to you a very, very special composer who will be with us for the remainder of the evening, Mr. Erand Ieru." She gestured toward the man who walked onto the stage and down to the Orchestra. "And now, I'll pass this back to Representative Brentioch who will announce the winners of the small raffle prizes."

"Thank you, thank you for honoring those who may no longer be here in body but are always with us in spirit, now, it is my pleasure to introduce to you a very, very special composer who will be with us for the remainder of the evening, Mr. Erand Ieru." She gestured toward the man who walked onto the stage and down to the Orchestra. "And now, I'll pass this back to Representative Brentioch who will announce the winners of the small raffle prizes."

"Ladies and gentlemen, please around of applause for Major Eldrel!" She led the applause and the Major only smiled giving Valessia a look, Valessia kept her facial expressions neutral and went back to her duties, "and yes I do have the winners of the small prizes, which include a six-month supply of Cloud City Wines, tickets to the Opera on Bespin and here in Prosperia. A six-month supply of Keskin Tropical Wines, season tickets to the Reimalai Theater which is located here in Prosperia, and finally a six-month supply of Avalonia Wines, a three thousand credit gift card to Contessa on Bespin and a three thousand credit gift card to be used at any shop that accepts IGBC's credit cards."

She flipped through her cards, and looked out onto the crowd. She then gave a look to Mr. Ieru and knew that these small prizes only three really since they were packaged together by wines. "We'll start with the Avalonia Wine package, and the winner is... [member="Greta Kohler"] congratulations! Next we have the Keskin Tropical Wines package, the winner is... [member="Rolf Amsel"]! And... the Cloud City Wines package goes to... Oh! President [member="Lady Kay"] of Commenor!" Clearing her throat, "you may all proceed to the Raffle booth at any time to pick up your prizes, and now..." Valessia looked down at her cards, looked up at the crowd and then tossed her cards over her shoulder. "Can we bring up the house lights?" She asks, as she quietly takes off her heels and sets them by the podium.

"Mr. Ieru, do you happen to know Sirtaki?" She asks and he nods with a smile, "good, c'mon get up here."

The Scion of House Brentioch extends her arm down and hoists Mr. Ieru up, "there we go, alright so back on Brentaal IV which by the way is right next door to Commenor - we have this dance we do, and ladies and gentlemen of the First Order." She watched as Major Leona Eldrel from earlier runs back to the stage, "thank you Major." They both smiled as some of the members of the chorus came down to join them, "we're ready when you are Mr. Ieru."

[media]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qR1-3gYXsfE[/media]​

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Spoiler

[member="Zef Halo"] | [member="Jude Falkrowe"]​

​

 

[Ria Misrani]

"I just got here, too." Aria confessed as she took her sister by the arm guiding her toward their father [member="Avicus DuSang"] and their brother [member="Viktor DuSang"] just as soon as the couples dance was over, "oh you know Viktor and probably with the President, [member="Lady Kay"] of Commenor." Aria mentioned as she used her arm to keep space between them and the crowd, "and I think [member="Lorelei Darke"] is here but I don't know if she came with daddy or just happened to be here with him, not sure." Aria usually didn't keep up with her father's love life, and sometimes that was for the better.

The oldest DuSang child stopped when a woman appeared on stage, quietly she tugged at her sister's arm as they got closer to their dad. She paused a moment just as soon as you know, everyone else, stopped moving. "Hail Seiger!" She shouted with everyone else it seemed, she and her sister [member="Ophelia DuSang"] would just have to stand here for the duration of whate- oh, military salute. "Daddy's with the Navy I think." Aria mentioned and pumped her fist up when the Navy's song came on.

And then there would be the announcement of winners of the raffle, well for the small prizes. "Well let's hope one of us gets the vacation package." She says, "or the speeder, oh - well I don't really use mine anyway so maybe just the vacation package." The normally reserved Aria was suddenly acutely aware that maybe she had done a little bit much on her medication. Anxiety was the absolute worst, "I'm rambling, aren't I?"

 

[Avicus DuSang]

[member="Aria DuSang"] approached the couple as he beamed. Kissing her on the cheek, he took the tickets. "Thank you, sweetie." he said, taking the tickets from her. "This is Lady [member="Lorelei Darke"], Sovereign of Kuat. Dissero's mother." And after introductions, she was gone. Avicus sighed, turning back to Sila. "Sorry about that. She can be... Headstrong."

Taking her out onto the dance floor, he pulled her close to him. "We've crossed oceans of time to be here. True. It has been awhile, I've forgotten how well you feel in my arms." The spotlight was on them. They once were capable of crumbling mountains with a wave of their hands. Now they watch from the shadows as their children go on to do great things.

Yellow eyes trailed back to Aria as he saw her standing with [member="Ophelia DuSang"]. He blew his daughters a kiss before turning his attention back to Sila. "When she was young, an assassin snuck away in her closet. Trying to get to her to send a message to me. I dispatched of the creature, of course. No harm came to her. Atleast, no physical harm. It scarred her, though. She's afraid of the dark..."

Yellow eyes focused on [member="Viktor DuSang"] as he motioned for the boy to join his sisters. There. He had done as Aria asked. Yellow eyes rested back on his date as he smiled to her. "This is nice. I forgot how much I missed it..."

 

[Kay-Larr]

Kay had another sip of her tea, warming up little by little as the music carried on. But then more announcements by [member="Valessia Brentioch"] , followed by little songs for the military. It was quite a spectacle, wholly unique to Imperial society. She clapped a little, trying to be careful to not spill her tea. And then came the raffle draw. Kay just blinked in surprise as her ticket was drawn for...a wine package? How lucky. She gave an appreciative smile to those that glanced her way when she was picked out among the crowd.

And then came another dance, one that she had seen before during visits to Brentaal IV. Kay watched it being performed, her eyes drawn on occasion to [member="Aria DuSang"] and the rest of the DuSang family that seemed to be gathering. It wasn't too hard to pick them out of the crowd. Her attention was drawn back to the dance, and it was done beautifully. If only she was more confident in her dancing, then she might have been brave enough to try it. But she would probably have looked silly on her own anyways.

When it was over, she wandered over to the raffle booth. A six month supply of wine was sure to be a lot. However was she going to carry that back to Commenor on her own? Hmmm. On her way there, she finished her tea and gave the empty cup to one of the servers. Then she was at the raffle booth, handing them her ticket. "Just...have the wine and opera tickets dropped off at the Commenor Embassy please. It's not quite finished yet, but there are people there already and rooms to house it in, thank you."

Should she tell [member="Viktor DuSang"] that she was leaving? Or wait for him? Kay was a little saddened that she didn't get to speak with her brother, [member="Kyle Amedis"] . But maybe she didn't really spot him at all and only wished that she did. Either way, it was an interesting night. Bumping into [member="William Kerkov"] was a surprise as well. There was a lot about the First Order high society that she had learned. It wasn't quite her cup of tea, but it was easy to see why they were growing in numbers.

Without a word and with her mind made up, Kay started to head out of the building. She needed to book a flight on the next available transport and she didn't want to be waiting at one of the stations for too long and at too late of night. It was going to be a long trip home, so she was going to go First Class. First stop however was to the Embassy so that she could have a guard accompany her on the trip. No doubt [member="Veiere Arenais"] and others would scold her if she was to make the trip back home alone. So, better safe than sorry.

Others were leaving the venue as well, so Kay patiently waited outside for a ride to become available to take her to the Embassy.

It was quite the night...

 

[Ophelia DuSang]

Her sister took her arm and Ophelia was easily pulled. The consummate helmsman, direct and assertive, she appeared to know precisely where to go. [member="Aria DuSang"] steered them through the dense sea of patriots and Phie, very much a passenger at this point, casually glanced about. As they passed precariously close to a waiter carrying of a tray of champagne flutes, she reached to pluck a glass but her sister drew her just out of reach. Oh… but, just a taste? She noticeably frowned.

… Viktor… probably with the President, Lady Kay of Commenor.

Drawing her hand back, Ophelia’s brow knitted. She had caught bits and pieces of Aria’s remark over the babble of the crowd, “Really?” Blinking, her expression froze in thought. Finally, with a shake of her head, she brushed the notion away, “Oh, no. That doesn’t make any sense at all.”

They stopped suddenly. Aria’s gentle tug drew her from her merry little musings and back into the present. Phie’s eyes shifted subtly, noticing that everyone had hushed and paused. There was a woman standing on a stage at the far end of the ballroom. Dignified in appearance, but whole-hearted in speech. She preached and the crowd clapped. Another announcement followed, which in turn was answered by another round of unanimous applause. It was all very standard. The sort of address one would expect to observe at a charity ball. But then, a chorus was revealed and the crowd erupted in a thunderous salute.

Hail Seiger!

Eyes wide, her hand moved to her chest. Extraordinary. She swallowed and worked draw in a draught of air. Ophelia wasn’t at prepared for such an abrupt eruption of energy. It had lashed the breath right out of her. Aria at her side joined the crowd. Phie, on the other hand, needed a moment more to process the spectacle.

"Daddy's with the Navy I think.”

She heard her sister say. Ophelia tightened their arm lock, drawing her in, “Yes he is, darling.” She replied to her through a faint veil of bewilderment, "Admiral [member="Avicus DuSang"]". The words being sung were moving enough, but the passion of the crowd was exceptional. Trust. Loyalty. Devotion. She struggled to recall a time when she had encountered such open, unswerving reverence, “My goodness, Aria. We are a long way from Coruscant.”

She doubted Aria heard her. In fact, it was possible the statement was completely in her head. Her sister had moved on, anyway, and had become positively giddy at the thought of raffle prizes. It cheered Phie to see her having such a lovely time, so much so that she felt herself returning to baseline. But the small prize drawing came and went and neither of their names had been called.

“Next time.” Ophelia cuddled up against her reassuringly, bending to whisper in her ear, “Now, whoever wins the trip must promise to take the other with them.”

 

[Ria Misrani]

Aria nodded in agreement with her sister [member="Ophelia DuSang"]. Although Ophelia spoke of Coruscant, the oldest daughter of the DuSang brood, couldn't say she missed it all that much. She enjoyed her solitude, being here on her own in Prosperia. Aria worked as a contract lawyer, reading, writing reviewing contracts for the CEO of Primo Victorian, Ms. McBose. Primo Victorian started as Prime Coruscanti Construction and changed when Ms. McBose succeeded, Mr. Windarno. McBose at the time had seen their company fail and suffer through Mr. Windarno's mismanagement and moved the company to Dosuun shortly after her appointment.

She brought with her, her key staff. Her personal assistant, her personal cyber security agent and her best contract lawyer. Admittedly, Aria did more than just look at business contracts, she also assisted Ms. McBose with personal ones as well. During the relocation, Aria studied and became a licensed life and health insurance agent and with Ms. McBose's assistance is working on launching her company.

Aria Insurance which for now will be captive, selling the products provided by Carida Insurance who has since become a major player on Dosuun and throughout the First Order's home territories. Aria believes in the peace of mind that she sells, and more so she believes in the First Order. The blonde haired and hazel-green eyed daughter of Avicus DuSang was most likely the only non-force user in the family. That ability was not passed onto her, no, and in fact when an assassin attempted to take her life when she was a child. It was her father, Avicus who dispatched him and while Aria was not physically harmed the psychological consequences of that event have remained.

The now thirty-one-year-old woman carries with her a source of light. Additionally, she takes medication to keep her anxieties, claustrophobia, and other mental ailments in check. When the woman who was called Representative Brentioch spoke of the Sirtaki. Aria knew of it however had not participated in such a dance on her own. “Oh! Phie, Viktor c'mon!”

Her father had sent her brother [member="Viktor DuSang"] to her and Ophelia, of which she was grateful. Rarely did the three of them get together, on most days they were scattered to the stars. Dispatched across the galaxy, so Aria wanted to take the moment to enjoy the evening with her two younger siblings.

[member="Avicus DuSang"]

 

[Ria Misrani]

Admittedly, Ranulph thought all the pomp and circumstance was a bit much. Still, this was a charity ball – meant to raise money for the military. Which was something he himself could get behind. Scanning the crowd there wasn't much here for him, at least – not what he was looking for anyway. And then they announced the small prizes winners, there was still the chance of winning one of the vacation packages, he supposed.

He watched from the other end of the bar as Major Leona Eldrel, was it? Was called to the stage for the moment of silence, the same Major then voluntarily ran up to help lead – a dance? Clearly he wasn't nearly as cultured as he thought. Although this seemed to be some sort of Brentaalan dance or other core world thing. Once more he was not familiar with it, and instead his eyes went back to scanning the crowd. He watched the woman – her name was [member="Greta Kohler"], she had won a prize and then afterward he diverted his attention and decided perhaps it was time to go upstairs and spy from above the ballroom floor.

 

[Ria Misrani]

Anna was upstairs, she found [member="Marzena Choi"] – former friend now rival on the dance floor, if briefly. She was there with her husband? No, boyfriend perhaps, and from the looks of his uniform he was of importance. Figures, Mi-na was never one to settle for anything less than perfection. Anna was to sing for the benefit concert that would take place once the ball was over. She walked beneath the grand arches that marked off the second floor and decided to descend the steps. As she did, the music came to a slow until announcements were made. Announcements that were preceded by First Order patriotism it seemed, a roar of Hail Seiger could be heard. Anna wondered if Marzena was part of this, had her friend become so drunk on the First Order's message? Perhaps. The Seoularian smiled and took part in the moment of silence and continued to move throughout the crowd as raffle winners were announced.

She managed her way to a table just as the crowd was moved into a dance. Some core world thing, she imagined – still Anna watched, observed, and watched again. She noticed a young man, [member="Matthias Hux"] out alone by the bar the same bar where the Major had been before running up the steps to lead the said moment of silence.

 

[Marzena Vaas]

Marzena walked along gracefully next to [member="Ludolf Vaas"], the two made their way onto the dance floor for a second time. She moved close to the Field Marshal, her arms gently draped along his shoulders. Her eyes found his again, and a soft smile grew on her red lips. The lights dimmed around them, music played, and all the couples out on the dance floor moved along with the slow tempo. There were times when she felt a deep connection to Ludolf, quiet times when they did not need to speak, and this was one such occasion. She simply enjoyed the feeling of his arms around her, and the closeness they shared.

The song ended, and Marzena looked up as Ludolf spoke. “Sure, some fresh air sounds nice.”

Once more, she reached to the side to find Ludolf’s gloved hand and together they wound their way through the couples that lingered on the dance floor. The two stepped out onto the veranda and into the cool night air. Marzena shut the door behind them, to keep the chill from creeping inside the venue. She felt a light breeze on her bare shoulders, and inched closer to Ludolf as they gazed out at the dark skyline of Prosperia.

Her head came to rest gently against Ludolf’s chest, and her arms slid around him. Marzena let her eyes close, fatigue starting to sneak up on her, and even if she would never admit it... her feet were starting to ache inside her stilettos.

Marzena peeked over Ludolf’s shoulder; the sound of voices coming from inside had drawn her attention momentarily. “Sounds like everyone is having a good time,” She smiled, “And so am I.”

 

[Kay-Larr]

Kay rubbed her arms, really regretting now that she didn't think to bring anything to combat the cold. Every ride that she had enquired the drivers about were already spoken for and being well paid to wait for their passengers. She sighed and thanked each of them anyways. Well if this wasn't a clear sign to get back inside, she didn't know what was. And the last thing that she had wanted was to catch a cold.

So without further ado, she turned around and headed back inside of the venue, dropping her arms and doing her best to pretend that she wasn't cold. People were still dancing and others were wandering around, chatting away with their friends and co-workers.

Kay stepped over to one of the servers and asked for another tea. He offered her his waistcoat, noting from the goosebumps that she was cold. She tried to decline, but he was adamant. So she conceded and had it wrapped around her shoulders. A minute later a cup of tea was brought for her. She thanked the server and then began making her own wander through the crowds, no doubt looking a little odd with the waistcoat hung on her shoulders.

But something would come up. Something always does. And if worse comes to worse, she could always book a hotel and call for her own ship to come and pick her up. Yes, there was always a back up plan.

 

[Viktor DuSang]

"That's Fleet Admiral Avicus DuSang, Phie." he mused, sneaking up behind the pair. He pulled them both close, kissing his sisters on the cheek. "Je vous aime. You both look splendid. You two must come with me to the next fashion show on Coruscant. Courtier is debuting his fall line. It's going to be superb. Hopefully, no tailcoats." Sebastian had taken his coat on the way over, so he was just in his black shoes, white slacks, and black silk shirt.

Yellow eyes landed on [member="Aria DuSang"] as he smirked. "It's so very rare we get to see you these days. You have to have a few drinks with us." Viktor had acquired a bit of a bad boy reputation in celebrity culture on Coruscant. When he partied with Phie and Aria, the tabloids dubbed them The Decadent DuSangs. Although, in reality, it was just Viktor dragging his sisters along in his wild adventures.

There were still pictures on the holonet of a naked Viktor playing a game of billiards at the King's Head back home.

Though seeing the trio together was a rarity these days. Aria was always wrapped up in work and Ophelia had been busy with college. Viktor also had his responsibilities as the chief bodyguard of [member="Natasi Fortan"]. In addition to being trained in the way of the Order of Ren. So, a night like this was a special occaision, and should be celebrated as such. Yellow eyes looked to [member="Ophelia DuSang"] with an ever growing hint of mischief.

"Let's do some shots."

----

Viktor's white coat was placed over [member="Lady Kay"]'s shoulders as Sebastian Faust stepped back, bowing at the hip. "You seemed cold, my Lady. It would be a shame for you to become ill on such a festive night." Straightening back up, the crimson eyed butler looked at the President of Commenor. He adjusted his glasses, giving the lady a smile.

"My Lady, the Decadence is primed and ready to go. I could take you home, if you'd like. We could collect your prize on the way there. If you'd like, there is."

 

[Darth Seraphic]

[member="Valessia Brentioch"]

After hours of just enjoying the shows presented, and wondering around, conversing with random patrons of the First Order, Crucifere opted now was probably the best time to present the real reason he was here. To discuss further donations he had no other reasons other than he wanted to give a little more than credits on his part. He had saw [member="Lady Kay"] with [member="Viktor DuSang"] who he had begun to respect, he had found through some conversing that the DuSangs were prominent in the First Order, kind of like the Sins in the Sith. It was interesting.

Moving away from his entertainers, his feet took to where the hostess of the ball, Miss Brentioch, so that when she had time he could wave her down to discuss further on his wishes to aide the Imperials of the First Order. He admired them enough that they had his...somewhat loyalty. He was, after all, Vahla by heart, and Sith by code. The Rens where not his cup of tea with their very like minded, and hive minded set that was his view on them, of course there was always more than met the eyes of a watcher.