Faction Hapes Charity Gala [Jedi and allies]

[Cybelle Sal-Soren]

H A P E S
Tag Nearby: [OPEN]
Location: Fountain Palace [Ball Room]

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Her hands were incredibly sweaty wrapped in short off-white gloves that were pinned with a small bead at delicate wrists. The sights and sounds of the Grand Hall were more than a little overwhelming to a young Knight that was far more suited to a humble locale. Since arriving on Hapes, she had been surprised by a great multitude of secrets that kept unveiling themselves. To begin—Cybelle Elyance wasn't the orphan she'd thought herself to be. This planet, her homeworld, knew more about her early years than she ever would have guessed. It remembered.

Even if she had forgotten.

Part of her had been tempted to abstain from the Charity Event. She had work to do and personal effects that she had no idea what to do with. The young woman had told Brandyn that her parents had left a small nest egg behind for her future—But she hadn't exactly been truthful. It wasn't small. As a Jedi entirely loyal to the Order she had no need for the possessions that had been set aside for her. She knew nothing about business; nor about caring for an expansive household.

Cybelle attended, firstly, because Brandyn Sal-Soren would be present. If she got to see him for even a moment in would be more than worth it. Across a crowded room, through pristine, windowed glass, or anywhere in-between. The auburn-haired knew that he was on security detail and truthfully wished she was as well. She felt ridiculous wearing an eggshell frock instead of her robes and uniform. A jade coated bangle around her wrist hid them, if needed, but she couldn't imagine that the application of nano-tech would be acceptable in this venue. Technically, it was against the rules.

She had left her lightsaber with Brandyn as the Knight trusted it nowhere else.

The second reason she chose to make an appearance was at the behest of her maternal grandmother. Cybelle had met her, briefly. She was beautiful and seemingly gentile—but her ideas of the future were far different than what the chocolate-eyed woman imagined. Her Master had warned her about that before her departure. The elderly noble Hapani had given Cybelle an idea, however.

It was supposedly the duty as the last Elyance to attend social gatherings that befit her standing.

So be it.

Cybelle would show her face—But she would also use the opportunity utilize her newly acquired accounts. She had arranged a sizable donation for the Enarc Fund. It didn't make her feel any better about suddenly having so much when others had so little, but it was a start. She swept into the ballroom and surprisingly no one stopped her. No one saw through the finery and called her an imposter. Because, she was. She hadn't been raised for this.

Mahogany hair had been left long and loose while the paint on her face had been kept to a minimum. She'd had to seek assistance with her attire. The jewelry was also scant, especially, when compared to what the other ladies of court seemed to be sporting. The jade on her wrist was matched to a thin metallic chain around her neck and equally understated drop earrings. They were personal, somehow. Something that had belonged to her mother. The dress itself wasn't so bad if she was being entirely truthful. It wrapped around her shoulders perfectly and sat across her chest in such a way that she at least felt comfortable. Many of the shops kept trying to fit her into things that left giant swathes of skin open but Cybelle hid in something svelte that touched the floor. Only the occasional peep of toes that were hidden with shining things seemed to have the over-done elegance that the Palace seemed to demand. That—Was only because Belle hadn't been able to find anything else.

Simple did not seem to be in the vocabulary of Hapes. Not in word nor deed. Decadence, however, seemed to be everywhere. It was a different culture that she had spent too far away from.

If Bran laughed at her…There was a high probability that she would will the floor to swallow her whole so she could die in peace. With that in mind she merely walked the edge of the ballroom and listened to the music. Cybelle thought that she was twice as likely to learn about the New Way if she kept her mouth shut and eyes open. As opposed as everyone here seemed to be the Jedi Knight was unwilling to believe that every guest was pure of heart. Not when the event spat blatantly in the face of their enemies. Hapes—had chosen a side.

Surely, no one would notice the little wallflower.

Not when there were so many other exotic peacocks to tend to.

 

[Solenne Abraxas]

​

Location: Hapes
Nearby Tag: {O P E N}
Distant Tag: Aiden Porte
Wearing: XOXO

Solenne wandered the allowable areas of the event with no particular destination in mind. A few of her cousins had come to greet her excitedly and in the same flurry of sweetness, they disappeared just as quickly. She could only watch them indulgently. Not every Abraxas chose to walk the path of a Jedi but there were enough that favored the Force that a gathering like this was an easy calling. She had heard of what was happening on her homeworld and thought it best to see things for herself.

That also meant getting gleefully terrorized by the entire kit and kaboodle of her family the moment they realized she was in town. Sol was aware that she had a warm and understanding disposition but if one more person hugged her out of the blue it was quite likely that she might deck them. Gently, of course. There was no need for permanent damage. Just…A little space.

Dark hair fell down her back like a waterfall of curling waves while her attire remained reasonably close to what she would have worn on Coruscant. Perhaps the knotted shimmersilk in the front was a little more impressive, but otherwise, she appeared very much the same. Solenne wanted to be respectful to the cause, plus, express the gravity of the situation. She had left a missive with @Korven Toldreyn about her whereabouts but otherwise had merely posted a leave of absence with the Order.

She worried that her classes might not be adequately covered, however, she had been assured that staffing was plentiful for their padawan learners. Solenne could not help but wonder after them. They were Jedi in their own right so she need not worry overly so…But several of them seemed to have been assigned to Hapes for the sortie. Ahem. Party. Aiden Porte was among them. Such a gifted youngling but oft with his head in the clouds. <<Pay attention, dove.>>

Her voice ran against his mind like a summer rain pitter-pattering against a clear windowpane. There was no harm or intrusion but he would feel her warm laughter raise up as if a thermal cloud were starting at his feet. No doubt, he would be surprised. Solenne kept her force signature hidden for various reasons but none so poignant as retaining some level of anonymity. A skilled practitioner would be able to unravel her designs—But no novice would be able to undo her protective weaving.

There were a few more familiar faces, like Valery Noble , and even more than were residents she recognized. She had responded primarily to the Hapani Queens' call for security and had thusly been allowed to keep her weapon. She would mingle, as needed, but she was content to watch over the rather large amount of Padawans throughout the eve. As dependable as they were, as much faith as she had, they were still in the blush of youth. An extra set of eyes couldn't hurt.

One of the waiters mistook her for a guest, likely, due to a deeply ingrained etiquette or coloring and offered her a drink. Solenne merely shook her head delicately and the slender Jedi Master declined. She didn't bother asking if there was alcohol in it. At events like this? It was highly likely. Especially, with a good deal of Jedi present. It was one of the few things they seemed to be permitted by doctrine as long as it wasn't to excess. Nothing, could ever be, to excess.

Solenne had heard that the Queen's Staff were preparing for, nigh expecting, problems. She was pleased to note that the night was moving along as it should. Artificial politeness aside it was everything it needed to be. Controlled and stunning.

If things could remain as such, they would all sleep much better when everything was said and done.

Perhaps the New Way had lost steam. Perhaps, they'd lost nerve.

Doubtful. But, Solenne could not be faulted for hope.

 

[Desric Terassi]

Truth be told, Desric had been somewhat nervous at the thought of travelling to a geographically isolated region that had once been home to infamous pirates, though it had been thousands of years since those days and his Chief of Security had assured him it was safe. Still, he had left a hefty security contingent behind in his shuttle.

One could never be too safe, even with Jedi serving as security.

Speaking of, Desric was surprised to see Corazona von Ascania seemingly keeping an eye on the crowd rather than mingling with her peers. Had she been conscripted to serve as security too - or was she simply looking for someone?

No matter. Giving her a brief nod when she looked in his direction, he started looking for oppurtunities.

As was his way, he was dressed to be noticed. In stark contrast to the usual white and pink, he had opted for a suit seemingly spun from solid gold worn over a bone white shirt. Hardly conventional, but he was confident he made it look good.

Arrogance on his part, perhaps.

If someone for once not coated in paint was looking for Corpos to seek out, he would be an excellent choice; despite coming straight from university, he had been catapulted into a public role by the superpower of nepotism.

Iris Arani | Open​

 

[Brandyn Sal-Soren]

The code four came through from Aiden. Brandyn's reaction was to start breathing again. It was only then that he realised he had stopped.

Chill, Brandyn. You have covered every angle. Also, Aiden wasn't late. He had a few seconds left.

He took a moment centring himself, the Force rippled about him.

The New Way had been his focus for months now. Having walked amidst their number, eaten alongside them while pretending to be one of them and witnessed their methods, he did believe that targetting an event like this might just be out of their reach. That modicum of confidence in turn made him nervous.

"Ah, that could be trouble," he said upon seeing Velda Nar-Donna walk in. Brandyn saw his comms light up.

"Damn," he murmured upon realising his comms unit had been set to speak. Now he owed the full security a clarification. "Stand by team, trouble averted." An obfuscation to save face.

He offered a wave to Velda knowing that he should speak with her, but really couldn't leave his station. Perhaps a patrol? No, he couldn't justify that.

The number of people entering was increasing significantly. However, it was impossible to miss his sister's entrance. He felt proud. Briana was resplendent and Aiden was a man with whom many others would have gladly traded places. He noted mentally that he would have to drop in tomorrow to compliment her showing. Her appearance would have been an all day ordeal. It was hard to believe she was the same person that had once smeared mud over her face to get out formal event when they were children.

And then there was Luric. Out of seemingly nowhere, his devilishly handsome cousin was before him. A hearty handshake followed. With all the gloriously dressed attendees about, Brandyn could only chuckle at the compliment aimed at his uniform.

"Oh, this old thing?" He laughed with a gesture towards the stiff popped collar, "it's just something I threw together. Luric...it really is great to see you."

With an outstretched hand he directed Luric forward. "Show them how we Ee'Everwests rule the dance floor."

And then he saw her.

Just for a moment, the swarming mass of people parted and there was Cybelle in all her understated wonder. She disappeared from view as quickly as she appeared, but her visage lingered in his mind's eye.

"Making an early walk through the crowd, keep the rabble rousers on their toes. Station 1 make your way to the Queen's stairs for the duration," he said into his comms.

The appropriate responses were issued before he stepped into the swarm.

It was funny. He was both noble and a Jedi, two respected classes within this contingent and yet the uniform changed how people responded to him. He was stepped around. Room was made for him. But ne'er a glance was sent his way. It was an odd feeling, being seen but with no attention paid. He wondered if the weakest spot in the night's armour might be within the ranks of Hapan Security itself.

It was with a sense of growing disquiet that he quietly sidled up next to Cybelle. He reached down every so slightly and entwined his fingers with hers.

"I see you," he said in a hushed tone.

It felt better, calmer, just being alongside her.

He squeezed her hand.

He had told Cybelle earlier that he would not be able to spend much time with her, but that now felt criminal. He had dragged her away from the Shore and now all but abandoned her to a large number in the room that would be snobbishly dismissive.

He squeezed her hand.

He glanced down at her briefly, smile just there to be seen under his professional facade. He looked back up at the crowd, observing for any anomalies.

"You both belong here, and are to good for this place," he said, again in the hushed tone, "coming round tomorrow still...right?"

He squeezed her hand, this time holding it a little longer. His way of saying he didn't want to let go.

But he had to let go. However, he lingered yet another moment before doing so.

Breaking from her hold, Brandyn turned, being sure to make eye contact as he did. All at once his eyes conveyed sorrow, hope and longing.

"Try the crab dip. It's pretty good."

With that he disappeared into the crowd, he signalled his imminent return to station, and then took his post.

| Aiden Porte | Briana Sal-Soren | Velda Nar-Donna | Cybelle Sal-Soren | Luric Ee'everwest | Open |​

 

[Jaa Ardan]

Jaa Ardan stood on the balcony, a balcony, surely this was not the only balcony, just the one he happened to be on, alone gazing at the stars and smoking a cigarra. He wondered how many of the lights he saw were gone, exploding into nothingness a million light years away with none who looked upon their light any the wiser. He wondered how many of those stars had habitable planets around them and what they may be like. An unseasonable chill was in the air and he stamped out his smoke as goosebumps rose up his arm under the all too expensive suit he was in.

It was a great suit, it really was. The best tailors on Hapes had made it or that's what Blaire had said when she told him what he was going to be wearing. It was tailored in a traditional style from Naboo. He was Corellian but spent most of his life on Naboo and as small a gesture as it was, it felt nice to wear something from his second home.

He hadn't argued about the suit but that didn't stop Blaire from telling him why he needed to wear it.

"I'm going to be stunning." She explained "So you need to look just as stunning when I take your arm. There is going to be a ton of important people at the gala, not to mention the cameras, maybe even the queen herself." She had said.

And your sister. He thought but was too smart to say to her.

"So you're going alone?" He had asked her teasing.

"No, I'm going with you and Shiraya's Will, I'll be leaving with someone else.

Jaa came back into the grand hall from outside and nearly ran over one of the wait staff. Apologies were made and Jaa swiped two flutes of champagne from the tray the woman was carrying. She walked off to continue her job but Jaa caught her as she turned back over her shoulder to look at him. She smiled and her cheeks flushed red when she was caught, Jaa smiled back.

Maybe this party wouldn't be a loss after all.

Jaa knocked back both flutes of champagne quickly, careful to look around as he did, it would not do for him to be seen drinking on duty, and he was after all on duty, the sidearm in the holster under his suit jacket was proof enough of that. After leaving Naboo's special forces Jaa had taken up as security for The Queen's Hand. A job he still had despite his employer no longer holding the title of hand.

It would not be a great thing for his patron to catch him drinking on duty but Jaa shrugged, this was hardly drinking was it? It had bubbles, a stout glass of Corellian whiskey maybe but this stuff was children's drink beside he could think of a couple other things Baros Sal-Soren would like even less to catch him doing…

"Briana!" Jaa said beaming. He made his way over to where she stood with another guest. His hand touched the small of her back as he leaned over to kiss her on both cheeks. The touch was gentle, innocent and yet familiar.

"Your sister will be so glad to know you're here. She's…" Jaa scanned the room quickly and saw no sign of Blaire. "…around."

He turned his attention now to the other man. Jaa had clearly intruded upon them.

"Forgive my manners." Jaa took his hand from Briana's back and held it outstretched to the other fellow. "Jaa Ardan."

Briana Sal-Soren Aiden Rennek

 

[Aiden Rennek]

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Wearing: Suit

It was almost a relief to see so many others be completely out of their element. Given the nature of a Gala on a planet with the status of Hapes, it wasn't too strange, but right now it helped him feel more at ease about his own dissonance with the crowd. As a simple Corellian who went into the military the second he was allowed, he'd normally never been permitted entrance. This was an event for nobility, important figures and the Jedi who had on so many occasions shielded the Galaxy against certain doom. He recognized many faces because of it, from important figureheads to Jedi ranging from Council to the youngest of Padawans.

There was something amazing about seeing them all come together to show support for a common goal, but he'd be lying if that's what he was really focused on tonight. From the moment he entered the hall, Aiden had been looking for Briana Sal-Soren , who had arranged that he was allowed entry, and of course, she was going to be his date here.

So for the last few minutes, he simply stood around in the suit he had specifically tailored to his physique for this event and allowed his green eyes to scan the room. He saw all kinds of familiar faces, either from brief interactions or from the holo-tv, but none of that mattered, as he searched for-

His eyes widened visibly when Briana stepped around a nobleman, and directly into his view. He felt his breath hitch and stood frozen, as he watched her approach happen in what seemed like slow-motion. Briana had always been particularly beautiful but tonight, in the dress she had chosen and with all the effort she had put into her appearance, there was something even more magical about her. So much so that it felt as if he stood in a completely dark room, with spotlights only highlighting her and following every step she took toward him — nothing or nobody else around him mattered anymore.

"Bri..." his deep voice rumbled, as he tried to get himself composed. "You look amazing." He offered her a smile and gently took her hand to interlace fingers. "I got lucky. My deployment was postponed, so I made sure I could be here with you. A bit last-minute, but I'm happy to be here." His eyes shifted away momentarily to find the table with drinks, as well as the dancefloor. "You want to get something to drink? Or are there people we should talk to first?" He had no idea how these events worked and Briana was part of an influential family here. She'd know what to do.

Briana Sal-Soren ​

 

[Silas Westgard]

Location: Hapes
Objective: Have fun
Tag: Thelma Goth
Attire

It had been a long time since he had attended high profile events like this. The whole event gave him a taster of the high life, something which was not of interest to him. He liked to keep grounded, only earning things he deserved rather than being given them from nothing. Even so, there was nothing wrong with making the most of these things when you had the opportunity now and then. Considering Valery Noble was here too, it only gave him every reason to wind down a bit from the duties of a Jedi.

A few days before the event, he had still yet to find any appropriate suit within his credit range. Since he had very little left, he went to Thelma to see if she knew anywhere to get one. Thankfully, she helped him pull a few strings to buy one just in time. As a way of thanks, Silas offered an invitation to come with him to the ball. Although, before he could get a proper answer, the door was characteristically slammed in his face. Although, even after that he was confident she'd turn up.

Standing by the entrance, he calmly nodded to familiar faces as they entered and double checked his suit for anything out of place. If she didn't attend, so be it. He'd just have to live with it and find a way to swallow his rejection. It wouldn't be the end of the world after all...

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[Thelma Goth]

Location: Hapes
Objective: Have fun
Tag: Silas Westgard
Attire

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Thelma hadn't even known there was going to be a charity ball when a long line of Jedi had suddenly appeared on her doorstep a few days ago, all of them wanting suits and gowns for the event. Among them was Silas, who asked her to come with him. As his date.

She had been so taken aback by the invitation, she hadn't known what to say. So she didn't give him an answer at all, instead thrusting his new suit into his hands and ushering him out of her room in a hurry. Once the door had shut, she pressed her back against it, eyes wide. It wasn't that she didn't want to go to the ball. It was rare that she had the opportunity to dress up fancy, and to see so many other fancily-dressed people—that alone was reason enough for her to attend, besides the fact that she'd be going with a friend rather than alone. But with so many orders to fill, she wouldn't have time to make a new outfit for herself. At least, not unless she got creative...

On the day of the gala, Thelma arrived at the palace on Hapes slightly late. She rushed into the ballroom, shoes tapping rapidly across the tiles, holding up her voluminous skirts to keep them from tripping her—and almost collided with Corazona von Ascania and Cailen Corso . "Sorry!" she blurted, then gasped at the magnificent royal blue gown and suit the pair were wearing. "Oh, I love your dress! And that suit, the color, it's beautiful!"

Of course, Thelma loved everyone's clothes, whether they were simple and understated or extravagant and exquisitely detailed. She made sure they all knew it, too, offering compliments to everyone she passed, regardless if the recipient was a visiting dignitary, a Jedi, or a security guard. Thelma had sewn quite a few of the Jedis' outfits herself. Seeing so much of her handiwork on display made her flush with pride.

She wandered around, taking everything in, before eventually making her way over to Silas. "Hi," she greeted him, a big smile on her face. "You look very handsome in that suit." He had better, considering that she had picked it out for him.

​

 

[Kha'la Daaray]

Wearing | Hapes | Open​

"So many have come," the Queen's aide said as Kha'la finally entered the halls in her new dress, and made her appearance on the balcony that overlooked everything. She could see couples dancing, others drinking and laughing, and for the first time in far too long, she felt completely at ease. Security was tightened, especially with the appointment of Brandyn Sal-Soren as her personal guard, and with so many Jedi present as well, she felt confident that this was going to be the night the way she had intended.

"I know, it's... special. I'm particularly happy to see so many Jedi are here as well. Some are among the most prominent in the Galaxy, but even younger students are here to show support. This sends the message I was hoping to create," Kha'la said, as her eyes searched through the incredibly large amount of faces in the room. Most weren't familiar to her, but a few were — Briana Sal-Soren and others of nobility, she knew.

A part of her wanted to go down there to talk to them all, but she had promised her staff to be safe. So until guards were ready to escort her down, her place was alone on the balcony.

​

 

[Miri Nimdok]

Tags: Iris Arani Desric Terassi + Open
Attire​

The last time Miri had come to a gala, it had ended with her in the hospital, suffering from a concussion. Perhaps she was tempting fate by attending this one. As long as she didn't see any sign of Ara Sheridan here, she figured she was safe—Kyell had no other crazy ex-girlfriends. That she was aware of, anyway...

She had of course invited Kyell Laysel to be her date for the evening, though she wasn't sure if he was coming. If he didn't show, she was content by herself. Gazing out at the ballroom, she spotted Amani Serys among the guests, very much an elegant beauty in a backless blue dress. It seemed the healer had taken her patient's fashion advice—though Miri still thought Amani would've looked best in white satin. Maybe on a different occasion.

As tempting as it was to dance, she was here more for the auction than the ball. The lots were a little out of her budget, but the chance at getting a glimpse of some ancient Hapan artifacts was too intriguing to ignore. It looked like Iris Arani had similar ideas. Miri gave the Knight a little wave.

One of the nobles standing near her appeared to be wearing a solid gold suit. Miri rolled her eyes at the garishness of it, but found it in her to laugh good-naturedly. "You certainly stand out, sir," she remarked. "Is that real gold? Looks a bit uncomfortable to wear."

 

[Amani Serys]

Alicio Organa - Open
​

"Wicked dance moves, eh? Let's not get ahead of ourselves. I'm but a humble apprentice," She dipped towards him in teasing reverence, "I'm sure there will be plenty of time for that, though." She wasn't so mortified by the mere concept of it now, at least.

As Alicio's gaze traveled the room, so did Amani's, catching sight of Iris briefly and offering a quick wave of her own, before landing on Val and Aldric. The Mirialan exchanged winks with her friend, then whispered to the Count with an amused grin, "That is Aldric Laurent. Agent Aldric Laurent," She waggled her eyebrows, "He's Val's new man."

"Seems like a good guy. She's certainly happy with him," She added with more genuine contentedness. Valery seemed to have nothing but glowing adoration for Aldric, and given what she had already been through, that was about as good a sign as Amani could hope for.

"Well, the fancy people aren't going to talk to themselves. How do I look? Presentable?" She smoothed out her blue, backless dress and shifted around to give him the full view.

 

[Cybelle Sal-Soren]

H A P E S
Tag Nearby: Brandyn Sal-Soren + [OPEN] --> Feel free to interrupt the NPC
Location: Fountain Palace [Ball Room]

_____________________________________________​

She could feel him.

Somewhere in a torrential sea of people and spirit she could feel him floating along like a safety preserver. Brandyn was an island unto himself—and it wasn't just because he wore the shades of Hapes authority so effortlessly. There was a change in him, here. He stood a little taller. Moved like a confident lion versus one of the cubs.

Cybelle waited for him.

Whether or not he had made his destination didn't seem to matter. She had spent so long wondering after him, waiting, that a sense of "knowing" seemed to arrive without any effort at all. The young woman instinctively knew when the head of security for the evening was standing at her side. She didn't look when their fingers subtlety laced together though a soft blush did sweep across the tops of her cheeks at the sound of his voice. They had never formally decided upon a status between them but Cybelle wouldn't press in the moment. Bran had enough on his mind—And this?

This was right. That was all that mattered.

Off-ivory fabric shifted, twisting, as Belle turned slightly to get a good look at the Jedi for the first time that evening. Her heart skipped like a stone walking across still waters. Brandyn looked…Beautiful. It wasn't a word that many would have come to when first describing him, she was sure, but it was the first thing that popped to mind. Thankfully—She hadn't said it out loud or the little confidence she held at this Charity Ball might have dwindled to nothing. The fact that Brandyn saw her and sought her out specifically among every other fancy frocked and bejeweled guest meant the world.

She hadn't known what to expect. Distance, indifference?

"…You clean up very, very well.", her words were tender and coupled with what she hoped was an easy smile that lingered sweetly at the kiss of her mouth. The extra squeeze to her hand gave her a burst of much-needed support. In such a short time Brandyn had returned to being what he had always been. A haven—Her own personal sanctuary. Brandyn reminded her that she belonged, as if sensing her doubt, and her smile widened just a little. He knew exactly what to say. "I don't know about that…"

"But I'll be there. Promise—Wouldn't miss it for anything."

A straight silk curtain of mahogany hair moved with her when a graceful shift to the right sought to bring her closer, though, duty was already calling. She could feel the silent departure in his touch and squeezed his hand in return. It was her way of acknowledging the unspoken, showing she understood, while at the same time wishing him luck. Cybelle had gone four years without him—She could wait the evening. "Thank you, Jedi Sal-Soren.", she spoke suddenly, and honeyed orbs flickered as she recalled the professional setting. She was already blushing just faintly so hopefully he wouldn't notice a little more.

"…For seeing me."

And a lot of other things. But, in the moment it was all she could manage when Brandyn looked at her that way. It was specific. The only thing that kept her heeled feet planted where they were was a decade's worth of training that willed her to stillness. Of knowing, without fail, that their mutual responsibilities would always take priority over anything else. It had to. It was the way they'd been wired and regardless how they grew and changed—The mission was what mattered.

She shook her head and laughed at his suggestion to try one of the many treats and suddenly the weight on her shoulders felt just a little lighter. Cybelle could do this. Brandyn had a whole Palace to look after while she only needed to get through the evening without incident. If she could uncover more information about their enemies along the way; it would just be a welcome bonus.

"Ah, Lady Elyance…", a new voice interrupted her momentary reverie and Cybelle blinked at the sharp contrast in how her name was spoken. Not Jedi Elyance. Lady Elyance. It sounded strange enough to her ears that it took her a moment to paint a polite smile on her features. "I heard through the namana vines that you might be making an appearance tonight. I'm glad to see that the rumors were true but I do hope that security isn't overstepping their bounds. Taking liberties, as it were."

Cybelle could only eye the near-human carefully while he passed a flashy cane off to someone behind him. She didn't like the way he spoke in the slightest, but, considering she'd spent the majority of her life in the backwaters of Naboo - It could have been normal. The tall man wore a showy royal purple suit with gold etching. She could smell the scent of expensive spiced pomade from two feet away. He inclined his head at her respectfully and seemed to be seeking some sort of reaction from her. "I—And you…are?", Cybelle stammered out through other things she'd much rather say.

It was important to blend in.

It was important to be nice.

"Why I'm—I'm Lord Frederick Whalon.", he introduced himself finally, seemingly shocked that she required any sort of introduction whatsoever. Her blank expression caused him to continue. "Of Whalon Galactic Banking? My family has a thriving branch in all major systems throughout the Core."

His voice got higher with every word and Cybelle started to nod her head emphatically, trying, to smooth over an obviously wounded ego. She didn't want her first interaction aside from Brandyn to be an absolute disaster. How dare she not know the name of every prominent bank in every system? "Right, right of course. How silly of me. It's a pleasure to meet you.", she recovered in what she thought was a fairly skillful way. At least, she wasn't blushing anymore. This Lord Whalon was…A very trying and annoying sort of man.

"Goodness, where have they been hiding you where you don't get the tabloids. Dagobah?", Whalon waved his hand in the air dismissively with an oily laugh before offering her his hand. "Shall we?"

…Shall we, what? Cybelle realized a moment too late what he was offering and found her free hand taken and absconded with. Sadly, she was taken with it. The son of a Banking Clan began to yammer on about interest rates and dividends and Belle felt her eyes begin to glaze over while they moved across the dance floor.

If Mr. Whalon was any indication of the evening…

It was going to be a long one.

 

[Hollis Orenn]

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Outfit: xxx​

Tag: Justice Lesan​

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Hollis hadn't ever been to Hapes before.​

​

Now, she was here for probably the fanciest event she'd ever attended. It had come as something of a surprise when Justice had asked if she wanted to attend a charity ball... but she definitely wasn't going to say no. It was for a good cause -- and it would be fun to dress up again. However, now that she'd arrived... she felt a bit under-dressed for the occasion.​

​

A beautiful Hapan woman had just walked by in a massive gown.​

​

Hollis had chosen a black dress and a little jacket to keep her shoulders warm. Her grip on Justice's arm tightened slightly and she looked up at him. "You're sure I look okay?" she asked, eyes wide. "I-I mean, just...look at some of these dresses." Her own closet didn't have anything like some of the lovely gowns she was seeing. Then again, these sorts of events weren't common for her.​

​

There were some familiar faces around, though! Master Noble was here with a dashing man, a sight that made her smile grow. She'd even thought she'd seen Aiden Porte walking about. And... the refreshments were already calling to her. Was that crab dip she spotted?​

​

"So, what first? Should we mingle a little bit or..." Hollis' eyes shifted longingly towards the food.​

​

 

[Judah Lesan]

.

Wearing: xxx
Weapon: xxx x2
Tag: Solenne Abraxas

There was something casual about Judah even in his formal attire. While he certainly knew how to clean up for an event, he also liked the mobility of comfort. Charity events where royalty and nobility found themselves involved often had a way to go south, and Judah was not one to allow any such thing happen on his watch. The Maw, the Empire, and the Sith, were all making a resurgence on the galactic stage, and it made the Jedi cautious, something which was not typically in his nature.

Judah was there on his own accord. He was not there for security, or even to dance per se. The Jedi simply felt it was in his best interest to be present. Valery Noble would like be there, along with her entourage of padawans. It was not right what was happening among the Jedi. More needed to teach and train than a select few. It was a load that would burn anyone out and make them cynical. Judah knew this too well as he was a prime example of exactly that.

As he usually did, the Jedi made his way to the bar passing several of those engaged in conversation. There were many beautiful woman among them, but none seemed to hold the same spark or fire his late wife had once held. Katara was beyond compare, and even in those moments when Judah considered moving on it was with the understanding that none would ever be like his first love. Was he open to love again? Yes, but only because he had finally come to terms with his own mistakes during his younger years.

He watched, seated from the nearest open bar he could find, as young men, and not so young men, seemed to prey upon the unmatched beauty of the Hapan women. Judah smirked as he knew better than most the matriarchal society and what would and would not be tolerated by those in the royal palace. A cup of hot tea was set on the bar counter, and the Jedi dutifully lifted it into his hands. A few credits were left on the counter as a small tip before he stood and walked toward Cybelle Sal-Soren .

The young woman seemed to be troubled by an overly forward noble, and Judah held the solution to her problem close to his chest. There was nothing said, no exchange of words to indicate that he should do anything. In fact, as the hot tea was spilled on the man’s backside at a very inopportune time. It would be an embarrassment for sure, and Judah kept moving right along. A soft chuckle escaped him as he then found himself near another Jedi. He turned only to see a look of disapproval on their face.

He shrugged.

“Well, I thought it was funny. He deserved it too.”

The other Jedi walked off as Judah scanned the room, watching on and searching for any signs of trouble, or other young ladies being presumed upon for a momentary dance they were clearly not interested in. His back and shoulders pressed against the wall as he leaned against the it, crossing his arms over his chest. Was Judah looking to strike up a conversation or entertain small talk? Not per se. Was he open to seeing how the evening went? Always.

Judah was a spontaneous creature. His gaze kept falling on a particular Jedi in the room, even as he found those he recognized. Briana Sal-Soren , Iris Arani , Aiden Porte , Hollis Orenn , and of course his nephew Justice Lesan , all were placed among the crowd. The face he kept coming back to was that of Solenne Abraxas . It would not do to simply avoid the unknown face, not when she was clearly one of the other Jedi in the room. This one Judah had not met yet.

“Good evening,” Judah said as he approached “Master Judah Lesan.” His hand extended in a greeting toward the woman. “I think I have seen you around the temple, but I do not think we’ve had the pleasure of meeting?”

 

[Aldric Laurent]

Valery Noble - Open to interaction​

Aldric chuckled, "It's easier talking to people I know I won't be seeing again," He glanced around at the gala floor again, "This is... a bit different." When undercover, it was an in-and-out procedure, where everything he did was for little more than achieving a goal and playing a part. Here were people they knew, or would get to know. He had to actually make the impressions worth more than a one-time chat. At the end of the day though, Aldric was just overthinking it.

"I'll be fine," He winked back, rebuilding some of his confidence. Valery took note of everyone he had noted, giving a bit of extra context on the waving padawan. What really had a hold of Aldric's attention, though, was talk of Dantooine. His homeworld. The agent's eyes glimmered with intent, "You're sure? There's proof?" He was eager to believe, but knew better than to cling onto wishful thinking, "I thought the Empire stamped them all out by now," All the ones that stood a chance, anyway. Perhaps things were changing. Tightening the iron grip often had a way of waking up new dissidents.

 

[Seva Geroux]

Wearing: xxx
Tags: Open

Seva Geroux lifted the delicate hem of her gown off the ground as she entered the venue -- or should she say the palace.

While she was well used to living in luxury, she had to admit that this was a whole new level. She didn't have a palace of her own, not yet anyway. Her smile, a closed-lipped affair, was painted red tonight and didn't falter as she glanced this way and that. Her blue eyes shifted towards the ballroom for a moment, she'd chosen to skip that bit... dancing was boring.

But the auction, now that's where the action would be.

In fact, she spotted someone familiar in the crowd, too. Seva raised a gloved hand in a small wave to Desric Terassi . The two of them had attended an auction -- of all things -- together before. He knew Seva loved to bid on jewels, but she figured it might be nice to add some art to her collection tonight. The ancient weapons, however, did not interest her at all. With a small sigh, she grabbed a flute of champagne and waited for the bidding to start.

 

[Justice Lesan]

​

Wearing: xxx
Arm: xxx
Tag: Hollis Orenn

“You look fantastic,” Just said as his eyes were clearly fixated on the exposed skin his lover’s low cut dress revealed. “My eyes are only on you tonight.”

Justice kissed Hollis on the cheek before he offered his arm.

“The difference between your closet and their closet is the fact they have a lot more credits than we do, nothing more.”

Justice followed Hollis’ eyes to the table with the food, and then back to the dance floor where she had suggested they mingle. He quickly diverted them to the food after recognizing one of the young noble women not too far from where they were.

“We should eat. Also, don’t look, but there is a young brunette wearing a red gown, sparking, almost form fitting. The last time I was on Hapes she commanded all my attention and practically proposed to me. We should probably steer clear from her tonight.”

He quickly stuffed his mouth with whatever food he could fit into it. Justice was not in a hurry to answer questions as to why he seemed to have a Hapan stalker, or why they needed to avoid her beyond the obvious. It all stemmed around his crush on Briana, one that had since dissipated. That night had likely been the beginning of him moving on, but there had still been the part of him which had hoped she would finally pay attention to him. She had not, and even while they had both had their own personal demons to deal, it had at least become clear they did not have mutual feelings.

Hollis was different. They had already established they had recognized feelings for each other from the moment they met, and they were both well matched. Justice could honestly say he was happy, and for as much as he did not want to be like his uncle Judah, he knew he had the one thing he’d seen his uncle have that was enviable. Hollis was for Justice what Katara had been for Judah, and the young boy knew it. If only he could solve the credits problem… the night would be perfect, but Justice simply could not afford anything. At least they were together.

“We can dance a little later, but I promise you’ll never get food this fancy for a long while after this event.”​

 

[Iris Arani]

There one was.

Iris would be hard pressed to ignore who was who among the Corpo's. And here one was, dressed in literal gold. Actual gold. Took her a moment to actually wrap her head around that kind of concept. Wasn't that stiff? Uncomfortable? Her eyes stayed on Desric for only a moment longer. Mostly because a familiar face walked up to him and gave her a wave. Miri. She flashed a brief smile and returned an even smaller wave in turn.

She was going to have to wait to introduce herself, then. Or perhaps get some more information. Her drifting gaze caught sight of someone else waving towards the known Corpo. A friend? Someone who knew him?

She slipped from her seat to instead step beside the woman in question. "I must say, that dress is lovely! What is it made of?" She looked over Seva just for a moment, then blinked and offered a more sheepish looking smile.

"Ah, right. I'm Iris. I can't say I've ever really gone to these things."

Seva Geroux | Miri Nimdok | Desric Terassi

 

[Alexander Blackmoore]

WEARING: xxx
TAG: Adrienne Keres | OPEN

An auction, a charity event. It was a guise, a ruse perhaps, but they were things Alexander was forced to stomach if he was going to fit in as a benevolent noble. Politics was a game he could play well, his family had always done so. The natural giftings which came from his progenitor, the template he had been based off, still coursed through his blood. What made Alexander different was that he lacked the experiences which had made Xander balance the act between Prince and Sadist, King and Monster.

He looked in a mirror adjusting his tie once more before walking out of the gentlemen's lounge. Everything about his appearance needed to be pristine. Not a single hair could be out of place. Image was everything. Those who looked upon him needed to remain fixated on his handsome features, and the things which remained on the surface. There would be none permitted to see the demon which he kept hidden, the devil which lurked just beneath the skin. Only one knew of its existence, and she was tasked with keeping it hidden as well.

His arm was offered to @Adriene Keres, Ixone. His apprentice was one who excelled in maintaining the facade of what they allowed people to see. Without her nothing of what Alexander wished to accomplish would be possible. Was he using her, yes, but she was equally using him. Their relationship was an interesting one, one that did not fit traditional constructs of Jedi or Sith. He was her master, and she was his apprentice, but they were something else, something more. It did not hold definition or label, for it would destroy the nature of what they were.

"Tonight is all about show, do not forget that," he whispered as they passed by other nobles.

Alexander nodded his head to some, and let his eyes linger on others. Whether he knew their faces or not mattered little to his objective. He wanted to be seen, recognized, perhaps even envied a little. Position mattered, and Alexander wanted to advance. Advancement came with a cost, one he would pay dearly just to reach the heights he dared to climb. Where Xander had failed, Alexander would succeed.

"Is there anyone I should be getting to know? Who are the influential people in the room?"​

 

[Dreidi Xeraic]

Location: Ballroom
Outfit: Dress
Tags: Open to interaction | Cybelle Sal-Soren

The number of couples that had come to the event was curious. It seemed like she had been the only one that had not brought a date or was not entangled with another. This fact hadn't bothered her too much since she knew that there was a likelihood of this happening but she wasn't really sure who to talk to if everyone was coupled. Seemed rude to just walk over to a couple and strike up a random conversation. She had spotted Briana Sal-Soren who looked amazing tonight and a lot less stiff than she did in her Jedi uniform she normally wear. There was also Master Valery Noble who seemed to be on a date, it was interesting to note that Masters were not only allowed to date, but they got the time to have a relationship. Dreidi knew her parents made it work but she was never really sure if they were just some exception to the rule or if they ignored the code or something.

While people watching, Dreidi received a message from Aiden Porte . She smirked and typed a response back, "Okay, bantha breath. Remember you calling my face boring the next time you need dance lessons, sparring partner or whatever. And you're still lame!" Sending the message before adding a emoji of a face poking a tongue out to show she wasn't being serious about his words hurting. Looking around, she noticed Brandyn talking to someone on their own! Aha! Target acquired! Someone to talk to and if they know Brandyn, someone to discuss his lack of fighting skills with. She was still slightly annoyed he forfeited in their duel. Definitely needed to be a rematch. Just so she could get another meal for free, save some credits since these ballgowns were not cheap!

Wandering other, some kind of Hapan noble struck conversation up first. Dreidi rolled her eyes, just her luck that someone snuck in first. Damnit! If she was able to teleport wherever and whenever she wanted then these things wouldn't happened. It seemed that someone else decided to play a great prank of the noble. Probably not the best idea to do so as a peace at a gala promoting good relations with them to upset the nobles on your side. But Dreidi was not going to let her chance go. Sliding in, Dreidi took Cybelle's hands and pulled her into the middle to dance with her. "Less likely to have some nobleman come up and converse with you if you a) don't look like you are interested in men and b) are already in the middle of a dance with someone as fabulous as me." Dreidi stated, "also, I need to trade Brandyn stories like stat, I got one, maybe two good ones at most!" Dreidi smirked, whispering a shared connection between the two women, in hopes of finding someone to spend time with at this ball.