Private Masks of Coruscant

[Roman Vossari]

Coruscant | Government Assembly
Tag: Adean Castor



​

The towering spires of Coruscant loomed above Padawan Roman as he entered the grand government building, a place brimming with power and ambition. The air thrummed with the hum of conversations, punctuated by bursts of laughter and finely polished words that danced around him. Silver and gold fixtures adorned the extravagant halls, reflecting the wealth and influence of those who roamed here. Orbs of light flickered overhead, illuminating the opulence and casting soft shadows that accentuated the grandeur of it all.

Roman took a deep breath, trying to steady himself. His recent training sessions had drilled discipline and focus into him, but as he felt the ebb and flow of the crowd, he couldn't shake the feeling of disconnection--the sensation that these political dialogues and high-stakes mingling weren't meant for him, not at this point as a Jedi. Instead of debating the merits of treaties or the implications of an upcoming Senate vote, Roman found himself longing for the simplicity of lightsaber drills and meditation sessions. The "real world" felt a million miles away from the monastery of the Jedi Temple.

As he wandered deeper into the throng of elegantly dressed diplomats and politicians, his mind wandered to his masters' teachings, reminding him of the importance of remaining present and centered. Still, he found himself swept along by the tide of voices, a stream of conversation that felt as elusive as the Force itself.

Then, in a moment of clarity among the overwhelming noise, he caught sight of her. She stood to the side of a group, her refined attire hinting at privilege and status. Yet there was a stillness about her that drew his eye--a sense that she was not quite part of the scene, even as she played her part deftly. While the others animatedly discussed policies and allegiances, she held herself together with a polished demeanor that belied a tension below the surface. Roman recognized that tension; it mirrored the feeling he experienced during his own social engagements.

Intrigued, he made his way through the crowd, his heart pounding with a mixture of curiosity and uncertainty. As he drew closer, he could sense something in her--perhaps it was the Force, or maybe just an instinctual understanding that here was someone grappling with their own place in a world dictated by expectations.

"Um… hello," he said, trying to sound casual. "Roman Vossari... Who might you be?"

​

 

[Adean Castor]

Coruscant

The details on how Adean - a current, albeit low-standing, attendee of Jutrand's Sith academy - had made it to Coruscant, much less the senate building, were lost even on her. There had been no malice in her journey. She and a small group of students were meant to be on a brief scouting mission for field experience. Yet, one missed stop or separation from the group and suddenly she was on a public transport to Alliance space.

A cold sweat had gone down her back when she reached a security checkpoint, thinking there was no way they'd believe her honest mistake to be anything but a poorly conceived infiltration attempt. Perhaps she'd explain she was at the academy against her will? Maybe she'd get some sort of refugee status? Before she could start to panic too much, however, a well-dressed gentleman approached. "Miss Fields, your transport is ready, if you'll just follow me."

Apparently, she was this 'Miss Fields' for the day.

Adean looked up the name in said transport. Sairyse Fields - some senator's kid. The resemblance didn't go much further than pale, dark hair, and green eyes but Adean wasn't about to blow her own cover, assigned to her or otherwise. It was a small blessing that rather than running into this Sairyse person's family immediately, she was escorted to a room with formal wear with instructions to make herself presentable.

Before she knew it, she was up to her nose in politicians. Again, she found herself incredibly lucky - most of them wanted to hear themselves talk more than anything. Adean was more than happy to pretend she was listening and offer the occasional platitude as needed. If she stayed for an hour or so, she could reasonably leave with minimal questions, playing the role of child disinterested in their parent's politics.

What she expected was to be directly approached by another around her age. An old colleague? A rival? The anxiety bubbling within did well not to reach the surface as she offered an affable half-smile. She felt an inkling of relief with his introduction - so either a stranger or a trap meant to catch her in the lies. Nevertheless, there was exactly one course of action really available to her.

"Sairyse Fields, a pleasure," She started, offering a hand in greeting. "How are you finding this, uh, event?"

Roman Vossari ​

 

[Roman Vossari]

​

As Roman shook her hand, he felt a slight spark of energy between them, a palpable connection that was unusual for such formal gatherings. The girl before him, introducing herself as Sairyse Fields, didn't quite match the green-eyed girl he had met before. But circumstances were murky, and there was intrigue beneath the surface. He decided to dive deeper, letting his curiosity guide the conversation.

"Pleasure to meet you, Sairyse," he began, a smile breaking through his initial uncertainty. "I must admit, I expected the daughter of a senator to be more… enthusiastic about political events." His tone was light, a tease wrapped in genuine curiosity.

He studied her expression, searching for any signs of recognition or the slightest crack in her mask. The tension he had sensed earlier lingered; it was poignant, a shared sense of unease. Roman was keenly aware of the labyrinth of politics of the Senate, the masks people wore to play their parts, and yet he could not quite shake the feeling that there was more to this imposter's story.

"I'm here on a lesson myself, though mine involves a bit more… quiet observation," he added, giving her a knowing glance. "You see, I'm a Padawan studying under the Jedi. Gatherings like this are entirely new territory for me. They can be overwhelming, can't they?"

Roman leaned in slightly, inviting her to share more about herself, or rather, her adopted persona. He was both amused and impressed by this young woman's audacity. Did she have a plan, or was she merely ad-libbing? Either way, he was determined to keep the conversation flowing as he probed gently, a friendly curiosity guiding his words.

"And how is Sairyse finding the company tonight? Surely, you've met some fascinating individuals already. I'm sure there's quite a story behind that dress--although politicians are famous for being a touch insipid, I suppose it's the designers that really shine in these circles."

He chuckled softly, hoping to draw her into a more animated exchange. The atmosphere around them was electric with chatter and laughter, yet in their immediate space, there was a subtle calm that felt almost like a sanctuary from the overwhelming tide of voices.

​

Tag: Adean Castor

 

[Adean Castor]

As hands touched, Adean could feel something run down her hand at the points of contact. Her brow furrowed a fraction, contemplating the sensation before quickly returning to the friendly mask. "Sounds like you haven't been to many of these, then." A slightly more genuine smile cracked across Adean's lips. "They're a snooze fest at the best of times." That was what she'd heard, anyway. And judging from what she'd witnessed so far, the information was accurate.

Her face returned to the stone neutral of one actively, or pretending to be, listening. Her thoughts were running rampant, skipping quickly enough that it all faded to nothing of substance, at least until Roman spoke again. A Jedi Padawan? A wave of dread washed over her, Adean nearly spitting out the drink she'd been vacantly sipping on as she processed the words. "Apologies, it went down the wrong pipe," she offered as she regained her composure with a couple coughs.

So the Jedi already knew she didn't belong. That had to be the only reason they were here and talking to her, right? "I'm surprised they let you leave your studies. What sort of lesson are they teaching you here?" How to corner an agent of the Sith, willing agent or otherwise? How to spread panic in the least amount of words possible?

The questions kept coming. Adean found herself questioning if she should give up the role now or still try and achieve a more graceful exit. Maybe she'd get to leave the assembly with an inkling of dignity intact. Still, another part of her considered that perhaps the boy really was trying to make conversation. If that were the case, well, she didn't want to ruin it for him immediately. "Well, I've met you, haven't I?" she offered with a brief chuckle. "This place isn't really my scene, y'know? A room full of self-absorbed people doesn't really bring forth the best conversation. I don't know about you, but I'm planning on dipping the moment my obligatory appearance is up."

She took the moment to look down at the dress herself. She'd seen herself in the mirror when getting ready, sure, but hadn't taken the time to really look at it. Panic very much had taken over at that point. Immediately, she knew it was more than she'd ever be able to afford. It was hardly a practical garment, as if formal wear ever was, but it lacked the itchiness of rough fabric or poking of a generic fit pulled off a rack somewhere.

"Oh yeah, they killed it," she said softly, temporarily forgetting her assumed place. "I mean, that's to be expected. Appearances are everything here after all, aren't they? That's like - what, half? More? - of what politics are anyway, right?" The mask was slipping, just a fraction. Enough, Adean thought, to be acceptable for the child of a senator, not one involved in politics themselves. "And what about you?" She asked, gesturing to his own clothing. "Did your council or whatever pick that for you?"

Roman Vossari ​

 

[Roman Vossari]

Coruscant | Government Assumbly
Lightsaber: X | Armor: X | Training: X | Casual: X
Tags: Adean Castor

​

Roman chuckled softly, his hazel eyes sparkling with both amusement and understanding. He nodded, fully embracing the shared sentiment as he leaned a touch closer, intrigued by her candidness. "You're entirely right, Sairyse. These gatherings can be dreadfully tedious. Half the time, it feels more like a game of posturing than a genuine dialogue about the issues that really matter." His voice was easy and warm, as if they had been acquainted for far longer than just a few moments.

He studied the way she had relaxed slightly, her guard appearing to lower just a fraction at his light-hearted tone. The conversation unfolded like a delicate thread, weaving them closer together amid the chaotic backdrop of the assembly. "But, you see, this is all part of my lessons from the Jedi," he continued, gesturing lightly in the direction of the bustling crowd. "I've been tasked with observing the political landscape, not just to understand how the Force flows through the lives of everyday people, but to grasp the intricate dance that is diplomacy."

Roman paused, taking two drinks from a server and handing her one, his expression turning contemplative. "In a galaxy filled with turmoil, it's vital to listen and learn from those who navigate such complexities. The Jedi wish to understand the motivations that drive leaders--what inspires unexpected alliances and, at times, bitter rivalries. It's quite a challenge to learn when the conversations are often laden with pretense."

He took a sip from his own drink, his gaze drifting momentarily before returning to her with renewed interest. "But perhaps that's why such an event, despite its mundanity, is also a source of untapped potential. Beneath the surface-level chatter, you can find real connections, genuine emotions, and even moments of truth--if one is willing to listen closely."

Roman felt the subtle shift in the atmosphere as Sairyse's mask threatened to slip, a fleeting glimpse of authenticity peeking through. He studied her with keen interest, his attention sharpened by the striking contrast between her façade and the hints of vulnerability breaking through. He was captivated by the complexity that lay beneath the surface. He leaned in, intrigued by her blend of defiance and charm.

"I suppose you could say that," he replied, his smile widening as he gestured to his attire. "The Jedi have a certain… aesthetic they prefer. Practicality and formality blended with an air of modesty. But I like to think that even in this uniform, there's room for personal expression." He glanced down, finding a clandestine playfulness in the deep navy fabric. "As much as I can summon in a room like this, anyway."

"But enough about me," he said, shifting the focus back to her, his tone light, as though they were conspirators rather than mere acquaintances. "I haven't spotted your parents; are they around? I would've expected to see them mingling and making the rounds, given the importance of this event." His voice was casual, but the question hung heavier than the rest, the undercurrents of concern mingling with genuine interest.

There was a fragile tension in the air as he leaned closer, studying her reaction, searching the depths of her gaze for the truth. Would she respond with the practiced ease of a political daughter, or would the layers peel back further, exposing her real story? Whatever it was, Roman's presence was there to navigate this delicate dance, and he was eager to see where it would lead.

 

[Adean Castor]

TAG: Roman Vossari

His words gave her pause - was the familiarity in his voice something he always spoke with or perhaps a hint that he and Sairyse had some sort of shared history? The latter could be an issue, one that Adean couldn't do too much about, except... "No kidding. Seems everything of substance is done behind closed doors, too. There's just too many faces here to get anything done. Speaking of, have we met before? It's so hard to keep track with these events." Hopefully, an acceptable excuse if that were the case.

Her brow creased at this explanation of his mission. It was unlike everything she'd heard of the Jedi previously. It was to be expected, the Jedi and Sith seeming to be opposing sides of a galactic coin, but she hadn't anticipated the starkness of differences. Seeking to understand rather than manipulate...listening before acting... Adean had no doubt there was some missing pieces to the description but it did call into question what she'd always been told.

She accepted the new drink graciously, trying not to flinch away when their fingers brushed against each other once more. The spark was still there, as puzzling as it was before. She placed the old glass on the server's now-empty tray for removal. It was her turn to lean in slightly, emerald eyes meeting hazel, a joking smile pulling at her lips. "And how is that observation going since you're talking to me?" Both a good-natured rib and a subtle suggestion he should refocus on the event as a whole.

After all, Adean wasn't doing anything nefarious, as difficult as that might be to believe if anyone clocked her for the other roles she'd assumed in the last couple months. And admittedly, she had picked up a thing or two about some senators deeper in their cups, even if she wasn't seeking the information.

At mention of Sairyse's parents, she took a step back, suddenly becoming all too aware of how little space had been left between her and the Jedi, gaze shifting back to the gathering at large rather than singularly on him. "I'm sure they're out there somewhere. Probably attending to some private meetings before the main ceremonies begin, y'know?" The last thing she needed was for the parents to recognize her as distinctly not their child. "They're my parents, not the other way around. It's not my job to understand what they do or where they are."

 

[Roman Vossari]

Coruscant | Government Assembly
Lightsaber: X | Armor: X | Training: X | Casual: X
Tags: Adean Castor

​

Watching her closely, he noted the subtle shifts in her expression--how her eyes flickered with trepidation whenever her parents were mentioned, or how the gleam of mischief intertwined with a convoluted sense of urgency danced across her gaze. It seemed like she was testing the waters, illustrating a delicate balancing act of vulnerability and confidence. At that moment, he resolved not to press--after all, the Jedi's mission of observation required patience, not provocation.

"And how is that observation going since you're talking to me?" she had jested, her tone teasing yet layered with underlying tension. Roman chuckled softly, playing along.

"Ah, a fair question," he mused, allowing an enigmatic smile to creep onto his face. "You could say I've gotten distracted, which is unusual during a gathering like this. But sometimes, valuable insights come from unexpected conversations, wouldn't you agree? The art of socializing can be as revealing as a well-made Jedi probe."

He stepped slightly closer, maintaining an air of casual camaraderie while his mind calculated the risks. "This event is an intriguing amalgamation of powerful figures and potentially... threats shrouded in polite smiles. Even the most polished politicians can wear masks that hide ill intentions. You never know who might be standing next to you, donning a false identity--a habit of those who lurk in the shadows."

His voice dropped to a conspiratorial pitch, aimed to draw her in while keeping his motives cloaked. "People in masks often see the gathering of lights as the perfect cover--fingers in the background, pulling strings. Just the other day, I overheard a senator speak about their keen interest in influence--a dangerous game for any who navigate this world."

He eyed her curiously, gauging her reaction. Was she nervous? Excited? Or simply playing the role too well? Allusions to the dangers of their surroundings danced over their conversation, serving as both a warning and an invitation. Could she truly help him? Or was he miscalculating her involvement altogether?

Roman initiated a fluid shift in their dialogue, directing it toward her. "Given your apparent understanding of these... festivities, you must have insight into who truly holds sway amidst these hallways of power. Perhaps you could enlighten me with tales of the players here? Not everyone is what they seem, you understand."

He observed her closely, gauging whether she would bite at his bait or retreat into her shell. Roman couldn't shake the sense that she was skirting the edges of a deeper involvement. To fully uncover her true motives and identity might not hinge upon confrontation but rather upon curiosity entwined with charm--an ever-elusive dance of words amidst a sea of potential darkness.

 

[Adean Castor]

TAG: Roman Vossari

Her latest sip of her drink caught in her throat as Roman mused about potential falsehoods of the people around them. She half expected the weight of manacles to hit her wrists right then and there. "Or they could be simply playing the cards they're dealt," she added just barely audible amongst the general ambiance. "I find it better not to assume everyone's lying to me, personally. Makes everything seem disingenuous." Sairyse forced a short laugh, making light of the situation as if she wasn't the biggest liar of them all in the moment. "And that's why my family is fine with my being here for appearances only. I've no interest in continuing their work in the Senate."

A brief part of her wondered if she managed to pry information from this well-mannered Jedi, perhaps her circumstantial misstep could instead be spun into going above and beyond in her classes. Another part of her wondered if this was a chance to leave the academy behind entirely. What if she came clean? Sure, she'd probably do some time in a cell for impersonating a senator's relative, but also maybe protection would follow? Maybe she could return to her life of anonymity, as simple as it was.

But also, maybe she didn't want to return to that.

"Do they treat you well, the Jedi?" The question left her lips before she was convinced it was a good idea to ask. But the ghosts of stomach rumblings were threatening to make themselves known as she saw trays of hors d'oeuvres intermingled with those with drinks. On Jutrand, they were fed. But in her particular station of the academy, it was enough to keep going and nothing more. "I can't imagine the training's easy, given what I've heard of your Order's exploits." There was a secret question hidden among the platitudes and small talk - was the training worth it?

"Oh, let me see..." she hummed, contemplating her options now that she was on the spot. A full denial would surely raise more questions than solidify her cover. She glanced over the various people gathered currently, making some quick observations and considering what else she could simply make up that would sound plausible. "You'll have to forgive me not knowing all their names - they either come and go in a blink or are here long past their welcome. That one," she indicated a well-fed gentleman, "Isn't the type you're looking for. The suit's new and not properly tailored - either he's new money or filling in for another. My money's on the former." Taking a sip of her drink, she subtly pointed at another, lankier individual behind the glass of her drink. "Neither is that one. They take a drink every time they say something. That tells me they're not confident with what they're saying." She had to stop from doing so herself. "What about you? Anything of note you've picked up?"

 

[Roman Vossari]

Coruscant | Government Assembly​

Lightsaber: X | Armor: X | Training: X | Casual: X
Tags: Adean Castor

​

Roman observed the assembly as he listened to Sairyse's observations, nodding in agreement as she pointed out the well-fed gentleman. "You're right about him," he remarked softly, his eyes narrowing slightly. "New money, and perhaps a bit too eager to impress. Look how he keeps adjusting his cufflinks as if they are a compass guiding him towards acceptance." Roman discreetly shifted his gaze, taking in the ambience of laughter and murmurs, keenly aware of the underlying tensions.

Then his attention was drawn to the lankier individual she mentioned, who was now leaning heavily against a nearby table. "And that one," he added, a hint of amusement in his tone, "every sip seems to fortify their confidence, but the tremor in their hand suggests doubt. I've seen people use alcohol to mask their insecurity. I can't help but wonder what they're truly afraid of saying."

His gaze wandered back to Sairyse, taking in her expression. It was almost as if she were scanning the crowd for dangers yet unseen. He appreciated her instincts and her ability to draw such insights from mere observations. The truth of her situation seemed to hang between them, a connection laced with neither outright trust nor malicious intent.

Roman's brow furrowed as he took a moment to consider her earlier question about the Jedi. His expression softened, reflecting his fondness for the Order. "They treat me very well," he replied, warmth creeping into his voice. "The Jedi have become my family in a way; it's a home away from home. The camaraderie among the Jedi is real--it's about mutual respect and support. I've met so many people from all walks of life, learned so much about the galaxy... it has been a journey filled with wonders."

He paused, the determination in his eyes intensifying as he continued, "The training is indeed difficult. It pushes you to your limits and beyond, but it's worth it. I've grown in ways I could never have imagined. All of our exploits--what have you heard about them, Sairyse? The Jedi can be seen as heroes or villains, depending on who you ask, but I believe the truth lies somewhere in between."

As they scanned the crowd once more, Roman's expression turned thoughtful. "I've seen the toll our actions take on others, good and bad. What do you think of that? How would you see the Jedi, based on what you've heard?" He turned his attention back to her, intrigued by her response, sensing the weight of both their truths in that moment.

 

[Adean Castor]

TAG: Roman Vossari

There was something about words spoken on the fly being taken as truth that would've been amusing if not for the magnitude of their conversation. Deception wasn't something to be proud of - the instinct to lie easily landed Adean in higher waters than if she'd simply opted for truth on multiple occasions. Still, she couldn't help but be grateful and maybe even a tad pleased when her falsehoods flew under the radar.

"I'm not convinced that one is afraid of saying anything, more that they don't expect to be taken seriously. See how their mouth opens and closes before they get anything out? They're expecting to be spoken over." In another setting, Adean would've felt for the stranger. Now, she almost wished for his position. Better to have to fight to speak than to have the spotlight on her, at least in present company.

She faltered, staring down the Jedi before quickly looking away when their gazes actually met. What had people, not amongst the Sith, heard of the Jedi? What could she get away with saying? "Not all good things, I'm afraid," she relented, carefully watching for his reaction. It was an understatement to say the least. "Some say the Order's filled with cowards or that the lessons are short-sighted. That talented individuals are being held back by flawed doctrine. That's what I've heard, anyway."

When it came to her own opinion, she was at a loss. "I don't exactly make a point of speaking to members of your order," another understatement, she actively avoided it out of self-preservation. She'd little doubt the majority of the order could subdue her in a fight. But even more terrifying than Jedi custody (or death, for that was always a possibility) was what punishment would await her should she fail against one. There was no room for failures in the Academy, that much was drilled in each and every acolyte from the start. She was lucky as is to slide by relatively unnoticed.

Another figure came into view, one she recognized from her quick holonet searches before the event started. "And that is my cue to head out," she said, nodding at the parent of Sairyse, gathering herself to make a quick exit. "Now they're done with...whatever they were up to, my work here is done. Good to meet you, uh...Jedi Vossari? Padawan Vossari? Proper titles are always difficult."

 

[Roman Vossari]

Coruscant | Government Assembly​

Lightsaber: X | Armor: X | Training: X | Casual: X
Tags: Adean Castor

​

Roman furrowed his brow at her words, a mix of confusion and curiosity settling in his chest. The way she spoke of the Jedi Order, framing it as a haven for cowards with a flawed doctrine, had struck a nerve. Interesting perspectives were often woven into the tapestry of political discourse, but coming from the supposed daughter of a senator, it stung more than he expected. He paused, searching her face for clues that might explain her opinions.

"Where exactly did you form these opinions?" he inquired, a hint of incredulity creeping into his tone. The question lingered in the air, momentarily tethering them in an uncomfortable scrutiny.

But the moment was short-lived. Roman's eyes darted past her, catching sight of Sairyse's parents making their way toward them. She had seemed to sense it too; he could see the tension in her posture as she prepared to exit. She was clearly not interested in being ensnared in any more of his questions. He could hardly blame her.

As she turned to leave, Roman forced a polite smile and said, "Nice to see you again, Ms. Fields." The words felt almost absurd in the context of their conversation, a formal nod veiling the deeper conflicts she had introduced. He watched as she backed away, almost as if she was slipping into the shadows, blending with the crowd of nobility and guests.

Once she had vanished from his line of sight, Roman turned his attention fully to the approaching parents of Sairyse, offering a warm greeting, now cloaked in the manners befitting his rank. They exchanged pleasantries and he navigated the conversation skillfully, all the while keeping an eye out for the girl he was inexplicably drawn to.

As he moved through the assembly, deftly weaving between clusters of guests, Roman felt a peculiar pull to keep Sairyse in sight. She had sparked some deep-seated curiosity within him, a mystery nestled beneath the layers of her assumed identity. Questions flitted through his mind like errant sparks of light. Who was she really? What lay beyond the facade she presented? More importantly, what had happened to the real Sairyse?

He stealthily maneuvered closer, careful not to spook her as she chatted with acquaintances, maintaining the right distance to observe without encroaching. He watched as she laughed, a lightness to her that seemed at odds with the heaviness he sensed in her earlier words. A fleeting curiosity teased at his thoughts. Did she relish the act of deception, or was she merely a player trapped in a larger game orchestrated by her family?

Roman's heart raced slightly as he weighed his next move. Was he prepared to confront her? Or would he merely watch from the shadows, a silent observer of her intricate dance between truth and artifice? For now, he resolved to stay close, tuning into the rhythm of the gathering while keeping a careful watch on the enigmatic girl who danced around secrets far larger than herself.

 

[Adean Castor]

TAG: Roman Vossari

"I haven't experienced enough to form a real opinion, these are just what I've heard." The clarification came faster than intended, spurred by the spark of panic when she noticed the information was not being well received. It seemed her mild treading of the line wasn't so mild after all, further indication that it was her time to leave.

Again. That was the word she dreaded hearing. It wore on her like a wet and weighted blanket, almost suffocating. The dark-haired imposter offered another quick smile, one that didn't quite reach her eyes, as she returned to the anonymity of the general crowds. The weight of 'again' never left her shoulders as she got pulled into another group of pleasantries followed by another.

On the surface, she allowed herself to get swept up in the platitudes of conversation, keeping things light and vague enough not to suggest anyone else probe into her thoughts and opinions. Internally, however, she was a couple steps short of a panicked wreck. How many times had she stepped away from a group with a 'I really must be going' before getting pulled into another? It was at least three at this point. It seemed the Fields family were more popular than she would've thought. All the while, she couldn't quite shake the feeling that she should be anywhere except where she currently was.

Finally, it seemed those who had been most interested in this Sairyse individual had said their peace (or at least acknowledged that they wouldn't be getting anything useful out of her). Adean was all too grateful to find herself heading to the exit with minimal interruptions. She breathed a sigh of relief, casting one last look behind her before she left, the hope of being able to escape crashing to a standstill as she caught sight of Roman again, closer than she had thought she'd left him.

 

[Roman Vossari]

Coruscant | Government Assembly​

Lightsaber: X | Armor: X | Training: X | Casual: X
Tags: Adean Castor

​

Roman's pulse quickened as he kept his gaze fixed on Sairyse. He navigated through the assembly with practiced ease, exchanging pleasantries and laughter, yet his thoughts remained tightly wound around the girl cloaked in deception. Each forced smile he offered felt insincere in comparison to the raw intrigue he felt for her enigmatic nature.

He remained at a safe distance, allowing the crowd to ebb and flow around him, while he stayed alert for any sign of her departure. He couldn't quite articulate what drew him to her; perhaps it was the subtle way she threaded through the conversations, masking something deeper. Despite her attempts to conceal her true self, Roman could sense the tension lurking just beneath her facade, a tension that mirrored his own restless curiosity.

As groups formed and dissolved, he caught fleeting glimpses of Sairyse mingling, her laughter echoing through the rooms filled with silk and shimmering lights. The juxtaposition tugged at him: the mask she wore against the somber truth that seemed to echo in her eyes whenever she thought no one was watching.

Finally, when Roman saw her attempt to weave through yet another cluster of well-meaning acquaintances, a sense of urgency stirred within him. The movement was subtle but clear--she was trying to escape. He quickened his pace, weaving through the opulent guests, his heart drumming in tandem with his footsteps. As she neared the exit, he felt a surge of determination mingled with apprehension.

Their eyes locked briefly, and in that moment, leaving just the two of them in an unguarded frame. The spark of recognition shot between them; he saw the glimmer of surprise in her eyes, a fleeting acknowledgment of the game they were both playing.

"Are you leaving already?" Roman's voice was steady, but the question hung in the air like a promise, laden with the weight of everything that had remained unsaid between them. He stepped closer, now cutting the distance she had tried so hard to maintain. The fading laughter and chatter of the gathering faded into the background, leaving just the two of them, caught in a moment suspended in time.

 

[Adean Castor]

TAG: Roman Vossari

Adean's heart must've skipped a beat with how the rest of the room faded to background noise. Her nerves wound even tighter in the pit in her stomach, the urge to simply run being nearly impossible to ignore. But to run would encourage a chase (nevermind the fact that a chase seemed to have already been initiated), something Adean very much wanted to avoid as much as she could.

"Uh, yeah, this place isn't really my scene," she offered, taking a step back when he moved forward. "'Sides, there's better food elsewhere, you, know?" She gave a short laugh, meant to disguise any tension for something more casual. Yes, Sairyse was a senator's kid. But surely wanting to escape the uptight event in favor of food was a near-universal experience for one their age, right?

"See you around, maybe?" Another lie. The sooner she was off-world, the better. As intriguing as the Jedi was, as much as it was quite possible they would've gotten along had they met under different circumstances, self-preservation suggested the Sith Acolyte was better off never seeing him again. The possibility of finding some form of kinship - maybe even friendship - was too dangerous.

Adean kept a reasonable pace as she left the senate building, speeding up a bit as she thought she was out of the Jedi's sight. Rather than call for a family speeder (as confident she was in playing the role, she didn't know how), she progressed on foot in search of public transport, a map of the city, or anything else that'd get her out for cheap and with minimal questions.

 

[Roman Vossari]

Coruscant
Lightsaber: X | Armor: X | Training: X | Casual: X
Tags: Adean Castor

​

Roman watched Sairyse's hasty retreat.. Her sudden departure, the forced casualness of her goodbye, it all felt… more off-kilter. There was a tension in her movements, a hurriedness that didn't quite match the easygoing demeanor she'd presented earlier. Something was amiss, something that piqued his curiosity far more than it should have.

He allowed her a head start, maintaining a discreet distance as she navigated the bustling streets. It wasn't stalking, not in his mind. It was simply… observation. He wanted to understand the reason behind her abrupt flight, her insistence on escaping the party, and her desire to assume this identity.

His senses heightened, attuned to her subtle movements and the subtle shifts in her pace. She seemed to be making her way towards the public transport sector of the city, a direction that indicated a desire to leave quickly and without drawing attention. It further solidified his suspicion that she was hiding something, or perhaps fearful of something.

The Jedi within him felt a pull towards understanding, towards helping. There was a compelling intrigue wrapped around this young woman, Sairyse, that refused to be ignored. He would follow her, at a safe distance, just to get a better understanding of this situation. It was best to be prepared, to know all his possible options. Something about her was not what it seemed, and that was more than enough justification to keep a watchful eye, and to continue to ensure her safety, should she require it.