Fresh Out of Commenor Puns | Invite

[Roderik von Brinkerhoff]

Roderik continued in stride with the First Order's delegation. He made an effort to take in all of the sights that he could along the way, unsure of when his next visit to the planet would be, or if it would be another on a long string of worlds he would pass through and never return. Either way, he would take the opportunity to make the most of his time now.

He spoke rarely, and when he did it was a hushed side-comment to [member="Pierce Fortan III"] as they walked through the Presidential Palace. By the time they had arrived to the site of the negotiations the captain had ceased any unprompted speaking, and instead stood in his pre-designated position behind the Grand Moff.

He stood tall, his posture formal, but he did not look stoic. Instead, he held an altogether pleasant expression.

[member="Lady Kay"], [member="Natasi Fortan"], [member="Riven Black"], [member="Darben Skirae"], [member="Crucifere Sin"], [member="Titan Kryze"], [member="Sioux Chambers"], [member="Viktor DuSang"]

 

[Darth Seraphic]

[member="Lady Kay"] had this which meant Crucifere had to say no words what so ever, but it did irritate him that lack of any disciple did not show within those who followed Grand Moff [member="Natasi Fortan"]. How did this explain why they decided to suddenly invade his mining operations on Bespin? Hell they had blown it up, and he had received no compensation for the destruction of his property. Sin had to cut his losses with Bespin and focus more on Hoth and it's common ores found among it's crust. Durasteel was always in demand, but the crystals flying around Bespin's gases were worth more. A single shipment of those crystals paid for about the same as three shipments of Durasteel ready to be used on the spot.

But this was nothing, he could always try again he supposed, what mattered now was learning more about the Knights of Ren, and their ways. [member="Viktor DuSang"] was his only lead into that order, and he would have much rather have someone higher in rank to speak with about the Rens. Again, he had to accept what he had, so he did. Stepping next to the man in a commonly, and approachable manner, Sin nodded with some respect towards him, though his eyes never left the Grand Moff.

"Tell me, are you a member of the Knights of Ren?" Crucifere's voice came soft, cold but in a whispered hush that probably could only be heard between the two darksiders.

His own apprentice, [member="Titan Kryze"] would do good to try and ease drop on both conversations being held now. Other than Titan, [member="Riven Black"] was the next person Sin could rely on. Black and himself saw a lot of things eye to eye, and the man had a good head on his shoulders.

 

[Kay-Larr]

Kay accepted a cup of tea as well, which she quietly sipped while [member="Natasi Fortan"] spoke. What the Grand Moff had said was true. Many times just the sight of Stormtroopers, even in formation, was enough to draw even a slight amount of fear of the Galaxy being run by Imperials once more. The genocide and destruction caused by them had been far greater than what even the current Mandalorians were doing. And as the First Order was growing in power, Kay figured that it was best to be on good terms with them for as long as possible. Who knows? Maybe she could have some sort of good influence on them. Of course she had other reasons for wanting them to have an Embassy here, none of which were harmful. Glancing over to [member="Crucifere Sin"] , she had hoped that he would be able to keep any anger that he had towards what happened on Bespin to himself. It was partly her fault, afterall, though of course the man didn't see it that way. But did he even read her report? She'll find that out just by studying his actions today.

As the Grand Moff spoke of an offer for an Embassy on Avalonia, Kay turned her attention to her once again. "That is a gracious honour that we would be happy to accept. Please send him our thanks as I am unsure if he is one to have an audience with outsiders. The Elders of Commenor do not. They are a bit...old fashioned in that way." Kay sipped her tea and smiled with a wink. "But the rumour is that they are just shy."

She cradled her tea cup in both of her hands, while the saucer rested on her lap. She wasn't quite as refined as the Grand Moff was, but she didn't have any training in the art. She was just going on instinct. "Now how much space would your Embassy require? Fortunately, our population is moderate, so our cities are not as vast as most core worlds. There is still plenty of room in the valleys and canyons. And as you may have seen on your arrival here, that although Chasin City has a mountain range nearby, we are not surrounded by it. So there is plenty of space available to you, depending on how grand you wish for your Embassy to be."


[member="Riven Black"] [member="Darben Skirae"] [member="Roderik von Brinkerhoff"] [member="Titan Kryze"] [member="Daxin Novari"] [member="Pierce Fortan III"] [member="Sioux Chambers"] [member="Viktor DuSang"]

 

[Viktor DuSang]

Yellow eyes moved about the room as the two groups converged. The elegance presented was top notch, but that wasn't his focus. He began mapping the room out in his mind. Where everyone was situated. Calculating possible angles of attack. The young nobleman had a job, and it was the safety and security of the Grand Moff. Pouring himself a glass of brandy, he situated himself along a wall, the doorways falling within his field of vision.

As he sipped his brandy, he let out a light scoff at [member="Natasi Fortan"]'s eyeroll. A light smirk crossed his lips, ever so briefly. So subtle, that not even [member="Lady Kay"] noticed. But, the conversation seemed to be rather pleasant. That was what this day was about. Viktor would be damned if there were any upsets in the talks because of him.

But, like a great test, he was casually approached by [member="Crucifere Sin"], the white robed warrior's gaze still fixated on the Grand Moff. The nod was returned, and he once more sipped his brandy. The question was asked with hushed tone. Indeed I am. Earl Viktor Maurow-DuSang du Coruscant, representative of the Order of Fen. And personal bodyguard of Grand Moff Fortan. His words reached out through the Force.

With a casual step, he moved in front of the man, obstructing his view of the Grand Moff. Yellow eyes rested on him as he took another sip of the brandy, giving an approving nod. "Terrific brandy. Madame President has certainly spared no expense." he mused quietly.

[member="Titan Kryze"] [member="Riven Black"] [member="Roderik von Brinkerhoff"] [member="Darben Skirae"]

 

[Darth Seraphic]

[member="Viktor DuSang"]

The Force flowed through the being before him like a enraged river, least this was how he saw the darkside in his own personal view, the Ren before him probably saw a very different thing within the darkside. He pondered what the man saw within Sin himself. So when the man introduced himself within Crucifere's mind through Force as a member of the Knights of Ren, his brow narrowed behind the mask. Now the man had entered his mind without permission, a passive aggressive taunt. His teeth gritted, and his head titled some as the man moved in front of him. Ah, he was blocking his view, he was indeed a bodyguard doing his job. The Ren saw him as a threat to his Grand Moff, and with that, Sin had found his weaknesses.

"I wouldn't know, actually, I dont drink. But I will take your word for it. Though, I do know that the president has great taste."

Sin moved back to the side of the man, now looking at [member="Riven Black"] an [member="Lady Kay"] as the conversation went on. After the invasion of his mind, Sin could hold his tongue. This had become a taunting match, and Sin refused to lose.

Tell me more on the Knights of Ren...

His own voice would caress the mind of DaSung.

 

[Darben Skirae]

Darben Skirae waited near [member="Lady Kay"], drinking some Comennor brandy in swigs. He observed everyone he could in his vision. It could have been just his nerves playing with him, keeping him on edge. But the sight of Stormtroopers did that with him. So he stuck close to his President, listening in on the Embassy proposals between Kay and [member="Natasi Fortan"]. Darben thought on money-wise things and trade as they went on.

[member="Crucifere Sin"] and the other one who had given him a nervous touch just due to their yellow eyes seemed to be having a conversation of their own. Someone with the Grand Moff stood behind them, perhaps a personal guardian. Darben stopped his observations and decided to jump into the conversation. "This Embassy, how much will it cost?" He was going to ask about trade, but he doubted they were at that stage as of yet.

[member="Viktor DuSang"]
[member="Roderik von Brinkerhoff"]
[member="Riven Black"]
[member="Titan Kryze"]
[member="Pierce Fortan III"]
[member="Sioux Chambers"]

 

[Natasi Fortan]

Natasi favored [member="Lady Kay"] with a smile and inclined her head gracefully. "The First Order has a tendency not to do anything halfway," she said, and it was true. They had plenty of cashflow from tax revenues, confiscations, and state corporations, so they could afford to 'do it up', as it were. "But of course it will depend on the site at which we build. Perhaps we can see some site plans. Obviously we'll want something that is either in the city, or within short airspeeder distance. And if there are zoning requirements as to landing starships, I can provide the specifications of the largest ship that would need to land there to arrange a variance."

She turned towards [member="Darben Skirae"] and raised an eyebrow. "I'm not sure how relevant that question is, if the First Order is shouldering all the financial burden of constructing the embassy -- which we are prepared to do, of course. As to the Commenori embassy in Avalonia, we have several buildings already constructed for the purpose of establishing embassies. If none of them suit your needs -- Madame President, Minister Skirae -- then of course we can discuss additional sites for construction. As to what you're willing to spend on construction, I expect, that's really up to you."

[member="Viktor DuSang"]
[member="Roderik von Brinkerhoff"]
[member="Riven Black"]
[member="Titan Kryze"]
[member="Pierce Fortan III"]
[member="Sioux Chambers"]
[member="Crucifere Sin"]

 

[Riven Black]

It continued to prove valuable, his silence was a mere facade, a game of patience. It was clear that once they all entered the spacious room, tensions rose. The sweet smell of food reached them, a gesture towards the guests. The finest chefs of Chasin City were picked carefully by Riven and it clearly showed. The presented foods were a potluck of all Chasin City's glorious cultured dishes. Gi Dumpling Soup, A mandalorian favorite. Baked Dru'un Slices in Fish Sauce, a classic dish from a much earlier era. Groat Chop, served with candleberry sauce and a personal favorite of his own. Many other varieties were spread along the gold lined tables. In obedient manner all who entered ignored the food, stationing themselves where comfortable.

Following behind [member="Lady Kay"], Riven found himself standing over her left shoulder as she sat across from [member="Natasi Fortan"]. The conversation that ensued caused Riven to playfully move his fingers, resting at his waist. Staring at the Grand Moff for a moment he smiled. The thought of the First Orders cooperation meant a closer look at their intentions. So long as they agreed to play along with Commenori law and policy. Clenching his teeth his jaw tightened, wary of the quick response from both powerful women in front of him. If this relationship was going to succeed, he too, would need a confident response to their demands. His dark, brown eyes lifted from the Grand Moff to [member="Darben Skirae"].

The embassy would cost, for both sides, whether they liked it or not, Lad Kay had final say. The idea of keeping an eye on a fast growing powerhouse like, The First Order, meant diligence in his ways to steer Commenor into a brighter future. He hope that future wouldn't require Commenori blood later on into the embassies created between them. While Darben intervened on the cost issue Riven looked to the other end of the room. Brandy being enjoyed by some of their own and guests. [member="Crucifere Sin"] seemed to be keeping the yellow eyed warrior in check. Although, Sin seemed relaxed, his posture showing less tension from before.

Odd...

Riven thought, the mere demeanor between the two seemed less likely for a brawl and more of a manly conversation. Regardless, Riven stood straight and nodded as his name was mentioned. He would do as Kay asked. Taking care of their needs and Commenor's. Riven was an interesting pawn in her kingdom...

And pawns always brought their queen back, from any unfortunate outcome.

[member="Viktor DuSang"]
[member="Titan Kryze"]
[member="Roderik von Brinkerhoff"]
[member="Pierce Fortan III"]
[member="Sioux Chambers"]

 

[Viktor DuSang]

The little conversation he was having with [member="Crucifere Sin"] didn't phase the talks between [member="Natasi Fortan"] and [member="Lady Kay"]. Viktor would make sure that it stayed that way. The white-robed man seemed rather irritated with Viktor's boldness. Good. That meant that his focus would be on him.

"You don't? How trite." he quipped. His free hand came up, a finger wagging in a 'tsk tsk' fashion. My good sir. Introductions first. Your lack of eye contact mid-conversation speaks volumes on your etiquette, but surely you must know it's exceptionally polite to introduce yourself when starting a conversation. Especially after the other person introduces themselves.

He smirked once more, taking another sip of the brandy. The Order of Ren act as the Supreme Leader's shield and sword. Soldiers dedicated to his glory, and subsequently, the glory of the First Order. Unfortunately, I cannot divulge further information as it is classified. Cold tendrils of the force wrapped around the brandy as it levitated to his free hand. He refilled his glass, the bottle levitating back to it's original position.


[member="Titan Kryze"] [member="Riven Black"] [member="Roderik von Brinkerhoff"] [member="Darben Skirae"] [member="Pierce Fortan III"]

 

[Darth Seraphic]

[member="Viktor DuSang"] was beginning to get on his better side, maybe at first they had both misunderstood each other, and Sin's interest in the Knights may have either placed him on their Black List, or as a potential ally to the Rens. Either way, Sin removed his mask to reveal what was behind. Red eyes burned with a passion as they gently moved over to the Disciple of Ren with a new calm demeanor in them. Red hair danced with white and black as a small pony tail could be seen with the rest of his hair laying in a relaxed manner. His skin was pale, but did not hinder the fact that Sin had always been something to be seen as desirable, but with the recent piercings to his lip and ears, it was possible he looked a little too dark. Thin lips curved into a dagger like smile.

Darth Crucifere, Lord of Sins, Grand Master over the Academy of Bogan, King of the Shadow Realm. You can just call me Sin. Please, forgive my....rudeness early. I have offended you, and your order. Anything you wish to know, and within my rights, I will tell you. Be it about Commenor, or...the darkside of the Force.

His voice carried over within the Force to the Disciple mentally.

"I suppose, it is simply the way I was taught. I have no ill will towards drinking."

The fake conversation continued as the two men watched over their handlers converse about the new alliance possibly being formed here. Indeed, Sin found himself more and more interest in the First Order as he gave a soft not to [member="Riven Black"] while [member="Lady Kay"] and [member="Natasi Fortan"] along with the other minister discussed on the Embassy. It was in bad taste to go straight to business at this time. They had all day to discuss this, right now, it was time to enjoy the company, get to know who was dealing with who.

 

[Viktor DuSang]

"Probably for the best. I've seen it destroy men that brought the Galaxy to its knees."

He finished the glass, putting the cup on the outside of his shoulder as he bowed lightly. Please, call me Viktor. No offense taken. As I hope any perceived offenses I have committed against you are forgiven. The demeanor between them seemed to lessen, and Viktor smiled a genuine smile. A servant passed, and Viktor placed the glass on his empty tray before returning to his conversation with [member="Crucifere Sin"].

As tempting as that offer is, I'm afraid I'll have to ask for a rain-check, Lord Sin. Official business, you see. As much as I love waxing philisophical, or learning new aspects of the dark side, I have a task that still isn't complete. But, with how well Madame President and the Grand Moff are getting along, I'm sure we'll have plenty of opportunities to converse.

The removal of the mask was quite a display. Something that the young acolyte didn't expect, but it certainly impressed him. This trip was becoming more interesting as time progressed.

 

[Kay-Larr]

"I will certainly have some site plans sent to you straight away. And the specifics on your largest landing ships would be very helpful in choosing the right location. The outskirts of the city to the north is probably your best option. You could have your own landing pad constructed and the appropriate permits drawn up."

Kay had another sip of her tea and raised a brow as [member="Darben Skirae"] chimed in about the cost. It was almost offensive. But [member="Natasi Fortan"] handled it with superb grace. "Minister Skirae, as Grand Moff Fortan has said, we will each be covering our own costs. Of course there will be discounts when it comes to supplies. This is a budding partnership, afterall. No one will be taking advantage of the other." A bit of a scolding, maybe, but he was new to this so it was to be expected.

She glanced over her shoulder to [member="Riven Black"]. "Minister Black, I am sure that you will help to ensure that construction goes smoothly? Once we break ground, I will make an address to the Commenori so that if any are nervous about an influx of ships, they will know that there is nothing to worry about."

She looked to the Grand Moff. "I am not sure if you are aware, but there was an attack in our sector just before I took office. Many planets suffered losses. Fortunately Commenor was left alone, but we were all prepared as we had an advanced warning. It has understandably put some people on edge."


[member="Crucifere Sin"] [member="Roderik von Brinkerhoff"] [member="Titan Kryze"] [member="Daxin Novari"] [member="Pierce Fortan III"] [member="Sioux Chambers"] [member="Viktor DuSang"]

 

[Titan]

Choices. I would have to choose soon. Between war and continuous death, or a life in which I would more firmly guide my company, better fulfill my job as current VP of Commenor, return home to Arkania, focus on my training with @Crucifire Sin, and live somewhat peacefully until the Crusaders are over. I would be forced to choose soon, and it was always getting closer. As I walked by Crucifire and DuSang, I picked up waves, they seemed similar to radio transmit waves so I "tapped in" and listened to their conversation, which happened to be quite a bit more interesting than [member="Lady Kay"], [member="Darben Skirae"], and@ Natasi Fortan's conversation.

[member="Viktor DuSang"]
[member="Riven Black"]

 

[Riven Black]

Riven's eyes were hit by the bright lights above, a sepia color forming around his iris. A smile reached his face as [member="Lady Kay"] announced him once more. It was clear that she wanted an answer and the Grand Moff [member="Natasi Fortan"] would clearly want his input eventually. The terms would have to be simple, at least to start. Once everything was set in motion, Riven was sure things would really start to become more complicated. His arm bent, his left hand reaching the heart of his chest and he bowed. His body slowly made it's way to a standing position once more, before he addressed the issue at hand. Riven's silence was broken, torn, but his voice stayed true.

"I will do my best to accommodate the First Order and see to it that their construction exercises are not against the Commenori law. There are a few policies that must be signed before the commencement, but these are only general documents to safe guard both ends of the deal."

Riven looked to [member="Darben Skirae"] and continued.

"As Lady Kay has assured you, our Minister of Trade, Darben will make sure that everything on the economic end will be accustomed to handle whatever you may need."

Riven straightened his jacket, the collar tickling the side of his neck. Everything he said was clearly to represent Lady Kay in the best possible way. He knew the system. Only, he had just now gotten used to dealing with multiple people. His voice was smooth as silk.

"Another thing, If I may..." Riven looked around the room. The mere presence of the Grand Moff's company showed respect and precaution, surely something Commenor's, Minister of Foreign Affairs must always have in mind. "What I am about to say isn't meant to cause this meeting to go foul, but it must be addressed. While I'm sure you already know, we here on Commenor; accept a vast amount of traffic daily. Due to this, our laws and neutrality may be a little more strict then you are used to. After the recent attacks, it is my job to remind you all, that Commenor will not allow the use of unregistered weapons, which you can simply do by filing for a permit of holding. We also refuse to accept any and all exotic animals not indigenous to Commenor."

Riven walked around from the back end of the couch, probably tensing her guard as he took a seat next to Lady Kay.

"Also you are free to bring in any fugitives held by the First Order as long as we approve of it. Following your offer on the embassy on Avalonia, I'm sure there are limitations to our...or my personnel, that we decide to station there. On top of this, I would request that upon any visits that harbor our President, that we are allowed extra guards and my own personal officials."

He smiled, play time was over, terms would need to be adjusted. Of course, his intention wasn't to soil the groundwork that seemed to be going smoothly. He merely needed to make them understand that the same rules applied to them, even with such power within their grasp. The First Order was dangerous, but that didn't mean they were unreasonable. Riven looked to Lady Kay one thought flooding his mind as he went silent.

I'll be the bad cop....

[member="Crucifere Sin"]
[member="Viktor DuSang"]
[member="Titan Kryze"]
[member="Roderik von Brinkerhoff"]
[member="Pierce Fortan III"]
[member="Sioux Chambers"]

 

[Natasi Fortan]

"Of course," Natasi responded. "We followed the story with great interest on Dosuun. Commenor is a world critical to free trade and industry, so we do follow along where we can." She lifted her tea to her lips and took a long sip, then set it back down on the saucer, eliciting a delicate chink of china against china. Her attention turned towards [member="Riven Black"], her eyebrows furrowing slightly. Who was this person that thought he could address her in this fashion, as if she were some sort of student body president rather than the Grand Moff of a major galactic power. She forced a smile and leaned forward to set the teacup on the coffee table, then smoothed the fabric of her dress over her knee.

"Thank you, Minister Black. As you may know, I was educated at the Galidraan University and spent the last decade of my life in public service, during which time I built the First Order from a group of ragtag fledglings into a major galactic power," she stared earnestly across the table at the Minister. "So it stands to reason that I would be both exceedingly stupid and unable to appreciate the distinctive requirements of Commenori law." Natasi beamed across the table at Black before turning her attention to [member="Lady Kay"] again. "If you have any concerns as to the First Order's presence here, I would ask you to please have someone reach out to my office directly. Sioux will provide you a card with our direct line. But rest assured that we have researched Commenori statutes and policies as made available on the holonet and I have directed that any First Order employee or contractor be in strict compliance with your requirements."

"Certainly a delegation of Commenori guards would be welcome whenever the President is on Dosuun. My assumption, Minister Black, is that you will familiarize yourself with First Order regulations on the matter and conduct the behavior of yourself and your personnel accordingly. Unfortunately, diplomatic immunity will extend only to the principals -- members of the government -- and not armed guards, so it will be critical that your men know what is expected."

[member="Viktor DuSang"]
[member="Roderik von Brinkerhoff"]
[member="Crucifere Sin"]

 

[Darth Seraphic]

[member="Natasi Fortan"] and [member="Lady Kay"]'s conversation began to heat up real quick with [member="Riven Black"]'s comment slash statement, though he had to agree with Black on the notion that more guards be presented when the President was on Dosuun. With [member="Viktor DuSang"] next to him, he gave a slight nod to the Knight of Ren, and moved in to cool down the embers that were beginning to heat up.

"Grand Moff, I assure you, the Commenor Guards will know everything they will need. Unlike most of my comrades here, I am an Imperial through and through. Imperial protocol has been drilled into my head since birth. I was born into the SIth Empire before it fell, but I assume that not much as changed in the common area of regulations, yes?"

Sin hoped this would ease everything up with the knowledge that he too was Imperial, and this meant without question he supported the First Order. With his quick insertion of his own words into the conversation being held, he moved back to the Ren, and sighed.

They are new to this, you must forgive them. Their nerves are on end.

 

[Kay-Larr]

Things were indeed heating up, but had not yet reached a boiling point. Everyone here was testing the waters, poking the fire to see where their boundaries lay. Kay didn't wish for anyone to leave with a sour taste in their mouth after this meeting. The First Order delegation were afterall, their guests.

"Just as your office has done their research, Grand Moff, so too will ours. The First Order is just as important to us as we are to the First Order. And should another attack take place, your people will have access to our shelters within the tunnels below the city. That is of course a worst case scenario, but their safety and security is paramount to us."

Her attention was then turned to [member="Crucifere Sin"] while he spoke. She had no idea that he was an Imperial. Was he just buttering up [member="Natasi Fortan"] ? Or did he really mean it? And if it came down to it, whose side would he be on? The First Order? Or Commenor? No doubt that was something that [member="Riven Black"] was thinking about as well.

[member="Darben Skirae"] [member="Roderik von Brinkerhoff"] [member="Titan Kryze"] [member="Daxin Novari"] [member="Pierce Fortan III"] [member="Sioux Chambers"] [member="Viktor DuSang"]

 

[Viktor DuSang]

[member="Titan"] approached the pair, attempting to listen in to the conversation. He about called the youngling out on the intrusion, but [member="Riven Black"]'s suddenly bold mannerisms caused the young noble to pause. Yellow eyes landed on [member="Natasi Fortan"] as the very room seemed to stand still. A cold grin grew across his face as his lady began to shred into the Minister.

The Grand Moff didn't disappoint. Viktor had volunteered for the position of her guard to learn what he could from the woman. She was calculating, intelligent, and charismatic to no end. She could make you feel ten feet tall, or crush you beneath her heels with a mere sentence. The Supreme Leader showed great wisdom in appointing her to her office. She was the Crown Jewel of the First Order.

[member="Crucifere Sin"] then stepped forward, showing both his cunning and diplomacy in one fell move. Viktor nodded to the man. No offense taken. I understand the concerns. We certainly all do. That's what the main goal of this meeting is about.

Yellow eyes rested on [member="Lady Kay"]. She seemed rather troubled by Lord Sin's words. Perhaps that was the difference between the First Order and Commenor. Everyone in the First Order was unified, and they knew where their loyalties stood. And although everyone in Commenor was loyal to the President, the leader was unsure about the loyalties of those beneath her. It was an unfortunate thing to witness.

[member="Darben Skirae"] [member="Roderik von Brinkerhoff"]

 

[Darben Skirae]

Darben Skirae kept his mouth closed. Things were heating up. And not wanting to make things any worse he remained quiet, just listening as everyone else went on with the discussion. Just casually drinking his brandy, while his spare hand rubbed the back of his neck. "My apologies" was all he said to [member="Lady Kay"] and [member="Natasi Fortan"]. Now he was starting to wish Mute was here. She might have been able to relieve some stress he had. Almost everyone else was in the conversation, such as [member="Riven Black"] and [member="Crucifere Sin"].

[member="Viktor DuSang"] [member="Titan"] [member="Roderik von Brinkerhoff"]