Public New Year Gala | Kingdom of Naboo

[Sarlow Zambrano]

"Then it appears you've developed a rather peculiar fascination with my father," Sarlow remarked with a smirk, "though, if you fancy that sort of thing, I should inform you that my father has an equal appreciation for both men and women. Your truest desires won't be denied." The man must have assumed that teasing Sarlow could provide some relief, a relief that the Wolf Prince seemed more than willing to offer. "Why do you brand him a traitor?" Sarlow inquired curiously, "is it not his prerogative to act as he wishes? If this is your sentiment towards my family, I shudder to think about your views on your own, if you have one, that is."

"It seems my... brother is rather occupied with fisticuffs," Sarlow observed the scuffle where Kahlil had just thrown a punch, "so I'll leave him to his devices. You, however, are quite considerate. Given your fascination with my family, I wonder if you possess the ability to lead the Tsis'kaar. Time will reveal whether your current successes are self-sustained or merely a continuation of the last master of the Tsis'kaar."

"It was a pleasure meeting you, good sir, a name and face not easily forgotten," he bid farewell to Malum as he departed, "anytime soon."

Sarlow turned his gaze toward Lina as soon as Malum had left, "he's going to meet his end, you realize that, don't you?" He tapped his fingers along Lina's arm, "Have I shown you where mother keeps the phylactery? I believe you might find it useful later." Then, he glanced over to the dance floor, "Well, we can visit the phylactery after a dance, hm? And perhaps, after the phylactery, we can pay a visit to Xathrael's hideout on Mustafar."

Darth Malum of House Marr | Lina Ovmar​

 

[Anodyne Lyori]

Sycorax Laveaux​

Anodyne's eye twitched, "Do all Senators' arguments boil down to semantic pedantry? Does me conceding that the Alliance isn't a singular being actually make this discussion any more productive, or does it just give you a chance to say you were technically right about something?" For a woman who seemed interested in helping, Sycorax had a rather atypical way of meandering to the point. Anodyne's gaze wandered behind Sycorax, back towards the gala as seen through the archway. Some kind of commotion involving Alliance folk was underway. Force, maybe this wasn't worth the trouble after all.

“I could put you in direct contact with the only Senator worth a damn. Alicio Organa. If anyone can help you, it’s him.”

Organa. There was a name even Anodyne could recognize. Not only for their contemporary accomplishments, but for their past. The name Organa meant something. Especially to those seeking freedom. "You think he would help?" She asked cautiously, not deigning to get her hopes too high, "What could he do that you couldn't?"

 

[Lina Ovmar]

Lina closed her eyes slowly and let a out a quiet sigh as they exchanged cleverly placed insults.

Men.

Her eyes snapped open to stare at Sarlow at his suggestion of Malum's potential interest in Kaine's more carnal desires. "Sarlow!" she hissed. From further rebuttal at the violent explosion at the other end of the hall. Jedi were supposed to be the composed ones were they not? Malum's farewell snapped her back to the current conversation and although she knew full well that Malum had zero interest in her that his flirting was entirely to aggravate Sarlow.

"I'm sure you would, Malum, though I hadn't pegged the Marrs family as polyamorous and I'm sure your little blonde friend would be very upset." she gave a him a small smirk and a wink as he walked away. "I'll be in touch." she watched him go a low chuckle escaping her as she turned to face Sarlow fully.

"You, my dear Lord Zambrano, are a terror." she looked up at him, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "If he's not going to survive, then its all the more reason for me to get my claws into the Tsis'kaar, is it not? "

She pursed her lips in thought as his suggestions, drawing a little closer to him, her hand on his chest, the rest of the room fell away from her, she tiptoed to place a gentle kiss on his lips. "I'd be honoured to dance with you. Then you can whisk me away wherever you like. Phylactery, Mustafar, I don't care, so long as it is just us."

Sarlow Zambrano Darth Malum of House Marr

 

[Rayth]

Gardens

But she pulled out her holo and sent him a little message. Before blowing a kiss in his direction.

"I don't know where you come from, why you're a Sith, who your master is or whether you have any allies. Although judging by the fact that you're still here after Ansisa has gone, I take it you and Annika have... something."

He licked his lips. "Oh, and the name's Marcus Dinn."

That was a lot of questions to answer. Rayth wasn't sure what he was supposed to explain from his position. Darth Reprimar frequently told him that knowledge was another form of power and that he was to keep his mouth shut unless necessary.

The pureblood sith lord was particularly harsh with his teachings. Fortunately Rayth healed quickly.

"I'm a sith because...that's who took me in," he explained as he slipped his datapad from his pocket. A thin smile formed on his pale lips.

He certainly wasn't certain what to call something. He was inept at social situations and he mostly just did whatever Annika told him to in them.

Tilted his head to one side, he heard the drama starting up inside.

"Why don't we get Annika and find this food? I think there's trouble and she wouldn't want to miss that..."

 

[Ansisa]

You may; but only once you've compiled a report on him. I expect every part of his life to be noted before you will be allowed to hunt.

The response was not exactly what she was after, but she'd take it. She was sure if she poked Annika Starfire enough and let her in on the little bit of gossip she'd uncovered she would be able to help her find a guest list. She might hate the half-breed, but everyone had their uses. She watched Ms Vizsla climb to her feet and turned her back, Ansisa stretched out her fingers, coiling a lock of Elise hair around it, her eyes on her would be rescuer as if daring him to react poorly.

"Leave me alone..."

Her hand dropped. "As you wish, Ms Vizsla. Do give Lord Malum a message for me, he and I are on such good terms. Tell him...Karan'sis'atrob sends her regards." That would wind him up enough. She blew her would be rescuer a kiss, and vanished from sight and the force, her laugh echoing all around them. Wondering back through the gardens she whistled as she went.

Damian A. Drake Elise Ahana-Gwyneira Darth Malum of House Marr Vazz

 

[Makko Vyres]

Gala

Cora pressed a gentle elbow against Makko's side to get his attention, then gestured briefly to the Queen.

"Do you think she's prettier than me?"

"Of course not, next question," Makko replied almost instantly. He grinned, refusing to be tripped up.

His gaze lost someone in the crowd Makai Dashiell . They had been watching his as they walked. Perhaps, he thought to himself, they recognised Cora. She had been a public figure as a princess.

She'd look behind her briefly and then back to Brandyn, bringing a concerned hand upon his upper shoulder. "Bran? You ok...?" She could feel the displeasure and the confusion of her brother - clearly he was seeing things that Bastila was not.

“My sister. Bastila Sal-Soren. She’s the pleasant one.”

"Oh pleasure to meet you," Makko said. He wants going to ask how large the brood might have been. Not with how many siblings Cora had.

"You know, I haven't been the the Jakku Enclave. Maybe I should..."

He paused at the sound of a body hitting the floor. His subconscious pieced together his peripheral vision.

"Ah chit."

Kahlil had struck someone. The dark lord of the sith was marching towards them with his entourage in tow.

Makko tensed. He reached down and loosened his cufflinks. Having spent most of his life being raised by a gang, he was always ready to throw himself into a brawl to look after the tribe. Valery was close by and very pregnant now. If Kahlil was starting a fist fight, Makko wouldn't ask any questions before joining in.

What followed from that direction was apologetic tones.

"Do we...just stay here for now?" he murmured to Cora.

 

[Marcus Dinn]

"I'm a Sith because... that's who took me in."

“Mmm. My dad was the same way—a slave bought by a Sith Lord who trained him and gave him access to his wealth.” Marcus swiped some sauce from the corner of his mouth, licking it off his thumb. “Those feelings of gratitude didn’t sustain him forever.”

Which was a nice way of saying that his motives for being a Sith were weaksauce, and he’d have to find better reasons to be evil. Eventually. Probably it would wind up being Rayth’s appetites that controlled him and made him villainous, if Marcus had to guess.

"Why don't we get Annika and find this food? I think there's trouble and she wouldn't want to miss that..."

“Meh, it’s just some old man punching another old man,” Marcus said, then shrugged. “I guess we have nothing better to do.” He turned toward the Sith girl. “Annika! The Jedi are tweaking on the dancefloor, your followers are going to want to see it!”

Rayth Annika Starfire​

 

[Sycorax Laveaux]

Objective II
Attire: xxx
Tags: Anodyne Lyori​

"Do all Senators' arguments boil down to semantic pedantry? Does me conceding that the Alliance isn't a singular being actually make this discussion any more productive, or does it just give you a chance to say you were technically right about something?"​

“Forgive me for trying to explain why the Alliance can’t help you, and should not be relied upon for aid,” Sycorax said, holding up a gloved hand. “You disagree, that’s fine. I’m more of a hands-on, fight the power, stick it to the man, punk rock kind of gal myself, but you do you.”

"You think he would help? What could he do that you couldn't?"​

“I have problems of my own to deal with. My resources are already strained without me adding Jelucan to my list of responsibilities. Alicio, on the other hand, is the Senator of fething Alderaan. He’s repping a utopian world of enlightened pacifists. The biggest problems he’s facing at home currently are whether or not he’ll become the next king of a perfect world. He’s also a bleeding-heart moralist who loves to help people. He was involved in refugee relief long before he got into politics. Go to him, be honest about the dangers you face, be nice and sweet and pure of heart, and he will bend over backwards to help you save your people.”

 

[Danger Arceneau]

N A B O O
OBJECTIVE I: Great Ballroom | Objective III
Open for interaction or chatting| Glistaweb Outfit & Items | x | x | x |
Valery Noble Kahlil Noble Makai Dashiell Judah Dashiell


​

Time seemed to stretch and compress simultaneously. It was chaotic. After Danger's initial burst of emotion, the Queen of Trade quickly grasped the reality of their situation. They were in a neutral public venue, and her outburst wouldn't do any good. No, their focus needed to shift to ensuring Judah received proper medical attention-- checking for a possible concussion or, worse, a broken jaw from the forceful punch.

A stranger emerged, possibly someone with prior military service, though Danger wasn't certain. Thirty-Seven, Makai's protocol droid, stepped forward, acknowledging Clarron Vall with a nod.

[ It is alright, Sir. I shall take over and assist Mister Dashiell with his father's transportation. ] Taking its position, the droid bent, attempting to use its strength to help Makai Dashiell bring the unconscious Judah Dashiell to his feet, Danger straightening as well, her hands clutching Judah's firm bicep as they lifted him up.

Their gathering had attracted too many curious eyes and ears. This needed to be resolved swiftly and discreetly--

"This outrage is an embarrassment,"

Danger's auburn head swiveled, and she had to tip it back sharply as the tall and muscular figure of Darth Carnifex , Dark Lord of the Sith, materialized before her. Her green eyes widened. Kaine. That singular thought raced through her mind. Where she would usually extend her hand, Danger instead inclined her head in greeting at his imposing presence, her efforts to aid Judah occupying her hands.

"Miss Arceneau, although it may bring little solace. I will assume full responsibility for my wayward son's behavior this evening."

"Thank you for your concern, Lord Carnifex." Even though the Dark Lord had granted her permission to use his birthname, Danger aimed to keep things proper in public, in a nod to respect. She would have used the familiar address if they were alone or in less watchful company. "However, it is only right for Mistah Noble to explain himself and apologize."

She didn't have to wait long. When she turned her attention to Kahlil Noble , he indeed seemed regretful and apologetic. With a bow of his head, he offered an explanation for what had gone down.

"My apologies. I did not expect to see Judah here, but it seems this Judah isn't the same that has been sexually harassing my wife over the years. There is no excuse."

Danger's emerald eyes widened in a slow blink, a wave of confusion, outrage, and concern swirling within at that explanation. At any other time, the Queen of Trade may have taken it at face value, but to react so violently? She held back a string of choice words, only to be shocked at how Makai blew up at Darth Carnifex and then lashed out at Kahlil Noble .

A cold shiver ran down Danger's spine. No, no, no. She couldn't let this unravel. In light of Myra's recent sexual harassment, Danger understood why Makai was so infuriated, but escalating this now was not helping matters.

"Makai, focus," she pleaded, desperately trying to redirect his attention. The last thing she needed was for him to insult a Dark Lord of the Sith and the Jedi Master who could knock his father down with a single punch. In the heat of the moment, Makai didn't quite grasp the gravity of the situation.

"Let's get him to my ship; I have a medical unit there," she instructed Makai, urging him to concentrate on his father. Danger swiftly turned her attention to Kaine and Kahlil, her tone apologetic. "I apologize for his outburst; understandably, he is upset with the situation regardin' his father." the apology might aggravate Makai, but she could explain it later. They had to get out of public view.

Additional context provided by Valery Noble clarified matters, but it was evident that the situation had pushed the Grandmaster into a heightened emotional state as well, quietly apologizing anew. Danger was aghast when she realized the pregnant woman was attempting to use the Force while heavily pregnant herself. Grandmaster of the New Jedi Order Valery might be, but there were limits. Danger, empathetic as ever, held back her demand for explanations and focused on damage control.

"Beggin' you, please, don't strain yourself. Let Makai and me take care of Judah. We have his droid to assist. If you insist, we may use your medbay, but let us move him. I want to stabilize him before we transport him to my ship and get him home," Danger implored, squeezing Makai's shoulder with a silent plea for him to keep calm. It was one of the many silent signals the Queen of Trade had taught him during their years together.

 

[Annika Starfire]

​

Location: Naboo
Objective: Objective 2: the gardens
Tags: Rayth Marcus Dinn
Gear: in bio

Wearing: this (but with a hat)

A voice called out to Annika bringing her back out from staring at her device

“Annika! The Jedi are tweaking on the dancefloor, your followers are going to want to see it!”

She looked over "Tweaking or twerking as from what I've heard about the Jedi it could definitely be either?" she laughed and walked over to Rayth and Marcus Dinn . "Whats up?" she leaned in and kissed Rayth quickly on the cheek before slotting in next to the two of them. S "Now... if we could get a few shots of a Jedi Master tweaking out on spice, I'm sure that would make a lovely little gift for the family back home?" she laughed again linking her arms between the two tall young man to allow herself to be escorted, she was starving and would be happily led towards food. She would keep her eyes out for her blue nemesis but otherwise she was enjoying relaxing at the party.

"What sort of food to they have going? I could go for a couple of big juicy hotdogs. But this doesnt really feel like the sort of place for that does it? How about we ambush one of those girls with trays of hors d'oeuvres and rob her blind?" talking about hot dogs was only making her hungrier, they needed to be quick before one of them started biting people.

 

[Lossa Aureus]

Objective: 1 - Dance Hall
Wearing: Dress and Heels
Tags: Briana Sal-Soren Aiden Rennek

The grace her cousin showed was met with an equal amount of grace. An easy diversion of her thoughts as she focused on the now. Focused on what was around her and put an airy feel to her projected feelings. Mustering up the memories of joyously causing trouble at the Temple with Iris with paints, blending it with the sensation of relished joy of her first successful flight without damaging her ship.

Masking the hollow feeling in the pit of her stomach as her smiled widened.

"I think a dance would be wonderful right now." Eyes watching them both with an alert sense. Now vigilant as she kept herself light and lithe, as if she were practicing her sparring. All motions to keep her occupied until her thoughts settled on their own naturally.

"Oho! Soldier boy can lead then." Grin wide as she shifted her hand from Briana to his.

Not thinking about her missing arm as Aiden led them in step toward the music. Ignoring the stares and hushed whispers hidden behind hands and fans. There would be plenty of time to manage the reputation that was now hers to maintain here on Naboo. The mantle of her grandmother's name would be a weight to shoulder another time.

Now was a time to spend with friends as she was allowed. To let herself move with the graceful practiced stride her cousin showed off. The comment from Aiden earning him an easy laugh.

"I appreciate it. You look..." Face in a shifting from contemplation to a troubled smile. "Good. Don't waste your best lines on me though."

The danced and twirled, forming a cohesive little circle of in step dancing. She supposed the connection between herself and Briana certainly helped to keep them in tune as Aiden twirled Briana, and then her before sharing a secret with her. Eyes wide at first before the smile shifted into one of the widest smiles Briana would have seen during their time together.

A smirk appearing as she glanced between the two, and no longer having to conjure up memories to fill in the hollow feeling as she enjoyed the information he had shared.

"I'd be better with my other heels." A giggling trill to her words as she danced around the two of them. Sharing a sliver of that giddy joy she felt for Briana with a watchful stare at her cousin.

 

[Corazona von Ascania]

"Correct answer."

Cora met Makko's grin with a sly smile of her own. He hasn't missed a beat.

“Well…so long as you don’t dip too far into the dried up well of floral designs…”

A finely manicured blonde eyebrow twitched. Cora's pleasant facade - hammered into her by years of courtly Ukatain customs - remained largely intact. She laughed once, quietly.

"Being bold suits you."

She lifted the wine glass to her lips, eyeing Brandyn's outfit with a more discerning gaze while taking a sip.

"Sometimes."

A beautiful young woman floated to his side, whom he greeted enthusiastically. With her arm looped around Makko's one, Cora dipped her head in greeting.

"Corazona von Ascania. I see that you are the more fashion forward sibling - that dress is stunning."

And it was, genuinely so. With tension taut as a bowstring all around them, lobbing little jabs over clothes seemed pleasant in comparison.

Especially as a nearby ruckus had their heads turning. All she saw was Kahlil's outstretched fist at first, and she winced. Makko was already rolling up his sleeves when she pressed the back of her hand to his chest. The last thing any host wanted was a brawl, and it there was still a chance that the situation would smooth itself over.

"Not…just yet. Let's watch."

Oh, her glass was empty.

Makko Vyres Brandyn Sal-Soren Bastila Sal-Soren

 

[Anodyne Lyori]

Sycorax Laveaux​

"I just don't see the necessity of the distinction. Obviously I'm not just making sacrifices to a Starbird effigy every night." Anodyne huffed, brushing a lock of raven hair behind her pointed ear, "…But, allow me to apologize for the… intensity of my reaction. It's a heavy weighing job."

Despite Sycorax's apparent loathing of synecdoches, she was quite straightforward with her own problems, and the potential aid Alicio Organa could offer. "I see," Anodyne pressed her knuckle to her lips in thought, "Well, thank you for the direction. Perhaps I'll see if he's available." She looked back at Sycorax again, "If he isn't or can't help, then…" The ambassador trailed off.

Then they would be alone. Or they would need to look elsewhere.

The nonsense inside touched Anodyne's ears again. She forcefully reminded herself that she hated gatherings like these. Normally, a disruption like that might be an entertaining brake from the motonoy. But now, it only reinforced her worries about unfolding events. "Perhaps it's time I get ready to depart. I've gotten what I need from this evening."

 

[Clarron Vall]

The cyborg nodded as the droid picked the fellow up, taking that chance to step back and leave these people to their own affairs. "Of course." He said.

They seemed to (understandably) want to hush this embarrassment up and keep it in the family. He gave them their space. Perhaps it wasn't right to have stuck his nose in to begin with.

He wasn't sure why he had done so, after telling himself all night it was smarter not to jump into the minefield of all the family feuds and political rivalries in the room. Maybe it was that troublesome little spark of the human element that just refused to go away, even after everything.

He'd first joined the Empire to make a difference, after all. Make one he sure had, too. Just not at all in any way he'd have been able to imagine. He'd thought of patrolling around in shiny white armor, hunting pirates and terrorists, not becoming the terror himself.

He took his leave from them. The man would be ok, he reckoned. He'd seen plenty of corpses in his time, and made no small few himself. Judah Dashiell wasn't likely be one anytime soon.

It was late, anyway. Too late, and he had a long way to fly in the morning. He started to pick his way through the crowds for the door. It would be back to business as usual soon enough, but the night had been a pleasant distraction.

 

[Briana Sal-Soren]

Wearing: XoXo | Equipment: Lightsaber | Location: Naboo | Tag: Lossa Aureus , Aiden Rennek​

Each step they took together seemed to elegantly drift with a timed precision across the floor, as if the strings of the instruments had wrapped around both Lossa and Briana, playing the two women like a pair of marionettes. She didn’t know if it was their natural connection that made them so in tune, or simply the result of their prior rehearsals for this night. Regardless, her heart lightened at the sight of Lossa's tentative enjoyment, her trouble from before seemingly starting to melt away. At least for the time being.

As the low, sonorous tones of the stringed instruments pulled them into their sweeping song, Briana surrendered to its rhythm, letting the rest of the world fade into the background. The beckoning back and forth of their dance, Aiden’s long-awaited return, the heady blend of pheromones and the delicate scent of rominaria flowers— all of it breathed life into the air around her.

She didn’t care if people stared or if they whispered. Didn’t care that the Sith were there, or of any other commotion that would have otherwise drawn her attention away from the people she was with. From the people she loved most.

Which was why her sharp eye didn’t miss when Aiden pulled Lossa in for a half-beat too long, some secretive exchange passed in that briefly close proximity. Briana didn’t need to necessarily know the details of what was whispered; her trust and love for the both of them was enough to keep her from worrying about anything untoward. Yet, she had the unmistakable sense that there was some kind of underlying plot afoot.

Lossa's giggles, the furtive glances exchanged between her and Aiden, and the mention of her heartbeat heels – those ludicrous pumps that defied gravity and made it nearly impossible to maintain any sort of balance – made Briana's brows knit together in suspicion.

As Aiden drew her back into his arms before the next dance sequence began, Briana's lips curled into a sly smirk. “Should I be worried about you two plotting something together?” she asked, voice laced with mock seriousness as she passed a knowing glance between her beloved co-conspirators.

​

 

[Sycorax Laveaux]

Objective II
Attire: xxx
Tags: Anodyne Lyori​

“Not just?” Sycorax raised an eyebrow, before cracking a lopsided, unserious smile. “No offense taken.”

Anodyne seemed intrigued by the suggestion that she contact Alicio. “I will tell him that you are seeking his help,” Sycorax said with a slight bow. “Enjoy the rest of your evening.” She would likely check out for the night soon after.

 

[Makai Dashiell]

Clarron Vall | Danger Arceneau | Darth Carnifex | Valery Noble | Kahlil Noble

​

"Yes, of course."

Makai didn't agree with the apology towards the man's father but it wasn't his place to argue, especially here. Danger had multiple business contacts and more than likely the towering giant was one of them. As the redhead always told him, everyone in the galaxy needed toilet paper.

​

[ Sir, I should be able to move Mister Dashiell with ease. I merely need assistance with guidance back to the vessel. ]

In reality, Thirty-Seven didn't need assistance moving the man. Programming identified his charge needed something to do as the elder Dashiell was carted away. Especially before the younger said something further.

"Of course, Thirty-Seven. Appreciate all the help."

Best to focus on leaving and getting out of the Gala before more happened. They would have to sort out getting his father settled on the the vessel back home.

Thirty-Seven thought it best to take the elder Dashiell out through the garden, the protocol droid realizing the quicker they got outside the better. The protocol droid could easily carry the human thanks to an advanced chassis that took his functionality beyond mere translations and scheduling concerns.

Leaving the gardens, Makai hurried ahead to prepare the vessel back to the Tingel Arm. The sooner they could leave the better.

 

[Judah Dashiell]

Clarron Vall | Danger Arceneau | Darth Carnifex | Valery Noble | Kahlil Noble
​

A nauseated groan as he was carried out by the protocol droid. Not exactly how one pictured their night.

At least Judah would be able to say one thing most men in the 'verse couldn't ; he was going home with Danger Arceneau that night.

I'm out to take Excedrin! Enjoy the Gala

 

[Damian A. Drake]

ROYAL GARDENS - THEED - NABOO
Elise Ahana-Gwyneira || Vazz || Ansisa

Stepping further in-between the Sith and Ms. Vizsla, Drake's entire gaze and demeanor hardened. A statement of resolve mixed with composure.

With how they carried themselves, the pair appeared to be unlikely to back down unless given more substantial reason. Raising an eyebrow a few milimeters, Drake found a sort of amusement that the Defel took to heart being called a wolf despite, as Drake believed, Ms. Vizsla meant that far more figurative than literal.

For a brief moment, Drake cast his gaze--his focus--away from the pair of Sith and over his shoulder onto the woman. Ms. Vizsla's aggression was on full display as she growled forth every syllable of what she thought of the Sith.

Even with Vizsla's gratitude, that practiced neutrality remained as his expression before returning his attention to the Chiss and the Defel. He did not come here for thanks, and he still had a job to do. No matter what personal thoughts he may have regarding her distressed words, the mission as it were now came first. He needed to return to his post, and he needed to ensure the Sith did not dig their claws into Ms. Vizsla any further, especially if she held connections to Lord Malum.

At least she garnered the strength to tell them off and walk away as the sound of her footsteps walking away reached his ears.

"If Lord Malum truly wishes to speak to her, then I suggest you retrieve the Lord, so he can approach her himself," Drake retained the same assertive yet level tone, "I'm sure he'd love the fresh air and the scenery out here."

"And, after all," a single hand would gesture to both of them, "I do believe Ms. Vizsla stated for you to leave her alone."

Cutting himself off there, his body shifted dangerously for a moment. It was not much, but it was subtle. The slight bending and turning of his legs and feet. The way the fingers of his hands curved, ready to grab or strike should the situation call for it. Shoulders and chest tensing. Grabbing ahold someone's hair, even a lock, could be an intimate act or a painful one, Drake's instincts told him to keep an eye on the Chiss's hands for any sudden or lethal movements.

He made no move and watched as the Chiss let go. Ms. Vizsla appeared to not have been harmed by the act. The back of his mind could not figure if the Chiss woman was trying to accomplish by that play. Maybe get under his skin by how she glanced at him

But he was far better at knowing when to intercede and when to wait for an opportunity than most people.

That same millimeter, almost micro-expression of the raised eyebrow returned again when the Chiss woman blew a kiss at him. He doubted there was anything tender behind the display, and a mental note wrote itself in his mind to be extra careful when leaving off-world. The most important part of what she said, however, was a singular name. Karan'sis'atrob. He would need to cross-reference that information later.

As the Chiss disappeared, Drake only had to focus his gaze on one individual now.

The Defel.

"If you want to take a gamble with the guards or try to escort me, be my guest. But unless there is anything else of significance you have to say, I believe we're done here," Drake's demeanor naturally fell into a more confident composure as he placed one hand inside the pocket of his jacket. His gaze no longer hardened and far more casual yet still analytical and cold.

A single yet small tug of a smirk along the edge of his lips cut through his countenance.

"Oh, and please let your acquaintance know she's not my type. Thank you."

If there was nothing else to discuss in the immediate moment, Drake would continue to keep an eye on Ms. Vizsla. The woman needed her space, but he did not trust the word of these two Sith at face value.

Especially not with their subtle glances towards each other. There was something hidden in their looks that did not sit right.​

 

[Elise Ahana-Gwyneira]

"Lord Malum would like to speak with the miss Vizsla here."​

Elise's footsteps froze when Malum's name was mentioned. Her heart pounded, how did he know of her connection to Malum?

Who were these people? Were they Sith? Just how much danger was she in?

Sweat trickled down Elise's face. Her head slightly turned back to the group as her skiddish eyes darted towards the dark figures. Her heart pounded even harder when she heard the threats to her would be protector.

"If anything, you are the one who shall be escorted away."​

Elise's heart was ready to rupture. Guilt poked at her sanity. She could not... she would not... let this innocent stranger be hurt on account of her pathetic existence.

Elise turned fully towards them. Her tangled hair was softly blown in the wind, and her tear stains were bitterly cold on her skin. With an exhausted expression, she felt more pangs of guilt as this brave man stood between her and them. But the Chiss approached her, reaching out. Elise's eyes widened in absolute panic, but did not resist. As the Chiss in turn played with her hair, Elise felt so uncomfortable, so threatened, so trespassed. But she did not resist, despite the obvious tensing and shyness displayed. She did not resist, because she did not want her would be rescuer in more danger. Her breathing was heavy, scared eyes on the Chiss' hand, until she lowered her hand.

"As you wish, Ms Vizsla. Do give Lord Malum a message for me, he and I are on such good terms. Tell him...Karan'sis'atrob sends her regards."​

That same putrid, vile, and animalistic emotion she felt in the ballroom returned to her. Suddenly, Elise, who was supposed to be focused on her protector's well being, was refocused as if immediately threatened. Suddenly, Elise was sneaking her gaze at Karan'sis'atrob's figure with the same eyes that bitterly envied all those women in the palace. The Chiss used her full Chiss name. It was rare for such a thing to occur, as the Chiss considered their full names and honorary privilege, only spoken by people of significance. Was... this dark woman *Malum's type?"

The jealousy was raw in her eyes as the woman blew a kiss to the protector and departed. Feeling sick, she further listened as her guardian gambled his own self. Elise winced her eyes shut, a scowl formed. She would not... she could not... let this innocent stranger be hurt on account of her pathetic existence.

"Stop."

The singular word was spoken as if from a place of authority. The absoluteness in her tone, the assertiveness, was enough to drive in that Elise was not putting up with this any longer.

"Whatever you do, don't hurt this kind man." Elise looked to the white Defel, "Just what do you want? I'll cooperate."

She half closed her eyes, shame glazing her whole face. "I can't let someone get hurt because of me. I too have a 'hero complex,' after all. No matter how pitiful."

She walked over to the man, forcing the items into his hands. She would not need them, in whatever games the dark ones wanted to play with her. She would face it alone, because it was the only thing she was worth. A traitor, a kinslayer, a forbidden lover, a failed prodigy... and a worthless common woman, of no beauty or prestige.

She looked to the Defel expectantly. She had surrendered.


Damian A. Drake Vazz Ansisa Darth Malum of House Marr