Podrace [Pre-Race: Open] The Dantooine Open RP - Preparation / Slice of Life

[Ova Ziss]

[OOC Information Thread]​

[ OOC: This is the in-character thread for the roleplay that happens before the Dantooine Open race. It is open to any character. ]

[ OOC: If you are looking for the race thread, the race will be live on FEBRUARY 1, 2025 , at which time dice rolling will also start. ].

The Dantooine Open: Racer Preparation

TAGS
Pilots: Naamino Zuukamano | Diarch Rellik | Valery Noble | Eleena Salwa | Wilhelm Vonreg | Dani Stellaris | Azurine Varek | Mr. Usher | Trayze Tesar | Eupheira Besserit
Crew and Helpers: Vera Noble | Diarch Reign | Saul Whesai | Aadihr Lidos
VIPs, Merchants, Media & Others: Ova Ziss | Serena Harth | Kinley Pryse | XaraXunia
RP Open to Any Character

Image Credits: HotPot.AI
Objective 1: The Track & The Garage​

[ The racetrack roars with the sound of protonic engines and hyperlift, as the swoop racers prepare for the day's biggest event of all: the Dantooine Open Swoop Race. This was the largest swoop racing event in the Tingel Arm, and swoop racing pilots eagerly looked forward to "swooping the whale" to open up the season. It would be the first time that the Diarchy would be sponsoring the race, but it meant that the once small and independent swoop track was flooded with professional-level budgets.

[ Dantooine Space Station's swoop track had taken a long hiatus during the Life Day break. The maintenance and pit workers took this chance to fix up the track and prepare their sponsor's swoop bike. Those who worked with a pilot knew the track inside and out because of this maintenance work, and they were prepared to help the pilot whom they sponsored. ]

[ Eager swoop pilots, venders, swoop fans, gamblers, VIPs, and media personalities flood into the station. The racing track has been sold out - both VIP boxes AND regular tickets. ]

[ Dantooine's best swoop pilots are encouraged to give an interview to Serena Harth 's camera crew, and to trash-talk other swoop racers they're feuding with! Their opponent might think back to your words during the swoop race, and it could psyche them out! ]

Image Credits: HotPot.AI
Objective 2: Exhibition Area​

[ On the outskirts of the race track, there was a humongous exhibition of street vendors, food vendors, and merchants from across the galaxy who were set up in the station's 'Artificial Park'. The "vendor approval committee", composed of Ova Ziss , Tertius C. Nargath , Liin Terallo and Credius Nargath , had brought hundreds of different swoop bikes from dozens of different vendors to be represented at the race. The swoops tempt those who want to buy or haggle for one. ]

[ There would be an assortment of wares for sale, of all shapes and sizes. Both vendors and buyers alike are swarming the Exhibition Area. ]

[ Swoop racers might be able to exchange their DFS-100 for another swoop bike, if they can pay or haggle for one. ]

Image Credits: HotPot.AI
Objective 3: Track Betting, Pazaak, Nightclub & Skullduggery​

[ Rodian scalpers sold black-market items at reasonable prices, and the swoop gangs swore that they could sneak you into the grandstands for a price. ]

[ The Zoltron-run "Cornerstone Club" offered food, drinks, liquor, and deathsticks. It is rumored that you could find underground track betting here. ]

[ There are Pazaak tables here, for those who are inclined to try their luck. ]

[ You light-side types, you get a bad feeling about this place. Perhaps you should stay away. Or, perhaps you'll listen to the criminals and get a drop on them later? ]

[ A company of media reporters and camera people are taking a break here. ]

[ Swoop bike racers might be able to arrange for little...ahem..."accidents"...to happen on the track, if they can find a shady figure who will sabotage their opponent(s) for them! ]

[ Objective X: Bring your own objective, just don't hurt the station or the people on it. ]​

 

[Ova Ziss]

Image Credits:
HotPot.AI

Objective 1: The Track
Location: Diarchy VIP Boxes - Dantooine Open, Dantooine Space Station
Tags: Diarch Reign | Diarch Rellik | Lord Dvasius | Open
​

Ova Ziss, the self-styled Governor of Dantooine and a loyal diplomat of the Diarchy, examined the beautiful track that he had commissioned, together with his team of engineers. He was standing in the newly-created VIP section, which faced the third portion of the track: the most difficult leg. The track was sleek; polished down by this material that the engineers called "tar", which helped hold onto antique motorcycles better once it went dry. Ova thought it was kind of old-school, but the engineers insisted this "asphalt speedway" was a tradition for Dantooine's championship swoop races.

This new racetrack was a serious upgrade from what the Dantooine Space Station had experienced before when it came to Swoop Racing and Podracing. Before, the track could only seat a few tens of thousands of people. Now, the grandstands could seat up to a million people. The outer rim of the track, too, had been augmented by temporary residential and commercial platforms just for the weekend's event. "The Cornerclub" nightclub, which was run by a Zoltron friend of Ova, had never seen more business.

Of course, as the opening Swoop Racing Cup of the season, this particular race wasn't going to draw a million people, but it did draw a very respectable crowd of about 300,000.

The racers and the spectators began to enter into the grandstands now: a diverse spectacle of humans, aliens, and whatever's. The event was "sold out" all across the grandstand area, and the VIP boxes were full. That meant that Ova Ziss's special governor box would be filled with other visitors. He hoped that they would be pleasant people, and he hoped that he didn't have to share too much of his liquor.

Ova heard the P.A system ring three times, and then a bodacious female voice called out an announcement.

"Attention Racers: this is your last call before the race. Attention Racers: you have three hours before the race begins."

Ova turned to Diarchs Reign and Rellik, who had just arrived to see the momentous occasion. Ova was determined to see the evolution of Dantooine Space Station from a second-rate "discount shopping platform", to a legitimate intergalactic entertainment experience.

To that end, Diarch Rellik would be racing today as the Diarchy's favored racer. Ova believed that he had come up to the VIP box to get the keys to his DFS-100 swoop bike. Most of the racers hadn't picked up the key to their rental swoops from Ova, so he was excited for an opportunity to meet the people who were making him so many credits, bringing him so much prestige, and creating such an entertaining spectacle.

"This is your big day, Diarch Rellik!" Ova said encouragingly to his friend. He stepped behind him and rubbed his shoulders. "We found you the best racer on the track. And, if anyone messes with your pit crew--" Ova looked at Diarch Reign, who was the outright leader of the Diarchy, and he cackled. "Reign can just fire 'em!"

Ova steps behind the bar, patting the shoulder of the bartender, who looked a little bit uneasy because of Ova walking behind the bar. "How about a little drink to calm your nerves? A snack to calm the tempers? I've got water, I've got soda, I've got whiskey...what would you like, future champ?" Ova waved a bottle of scotch in his direction, and then in the direction of Diarch Reign. The bartender was now very worried.

A newcomer [ Lord Dvasius ] stepped into the VIP box vestibule, and Ova shook the scotch at them, too. "Come to root for Rellik too, eh? Come and join the festivities!" Ova puts his fingers under his tongue and whistles loudly, popping open the scotch. He sets down several shot glasses (even if he's the only one drinking!) He serves anyone who asks a drink.

Ova holds his glass high, gesturing to anyone in the vestibule.

"TO RELLIK!"

Then, he takes a drink, coughing at the strength of the liquor. It was few and far between, the times when Ova got to relax and unwind, and he would enjoy every last minute of it!

 

[Lord Dvasius]

The moment Dvasius walked in the room some man he didn't know addressed him. He knew he should came in cloaked in the Force. The Rogue Sith Lord wasn't one to chat at the moment and would say nothing. He'd been on the run, not just for his own life, but eliminating loose ends that lead to his own people as well, trying to find them a home to not just survive, but live. So far it wasn't going so well. He needed friends, something like a proverbial older brother to help him deal with his enemies he couldn't face without an army of his own. He did have a network of assassins that were essentially a military of his own, but they couldn't fight every rival Sith in the Galaxy.

He needed friends, to make allies. The Sith thought maybe the Diarchy would be a good start. They didn't like his former allies either and he heard they'd even be going to fight them soon. From the rumors he'd heard and intel he'd received they were led by two Former Sith, going more the grey route now. He'd prefer true Sith as allies, but traitors on the run couldn't exactly be picky really.

Whoever the man addressing him was offered alcohol, scotch. At the end of the day if he brought work with him and tried to make an alliance with people here or not, he was not physically, but mentally exhausted. He needed a break, to have fun. And he definitely needed a drink. Maybe he could get drunk and watch racers die on the track for a prize not worth enough. He'd have fun or bust... some teeth out of someone's mouth. Dvasius had not been having a good time as late and frankly didn't give a kark.

It was likely that could be seen on his face. His dead, empty eyes and blank face, lacking in any emotion, but hiding a Sith's rage. Anyway. It was time to get drunk and give even less of a kark if he could. He turned toward the man offering shot glasses to anyone and walked toward him and the bar. Dvasius sat down and took three shots in quick succession, "Wanna play a game? Go shot for shot? I'm already ahead. Catch up and see if you maintain standing for long."

The Sith took two more shots and waited for the answer.



Ova Ziss
Lady Falentra

 

[Saul Whesai]

Location: Garage Area
Open to anyone

A pale hand grabbed a hydrospanner before it returned to get all the mechanical gremlins out of Eleena Salwa 's bike. Spare parts were cluttered throughout the garage as Saul tried his best to get the bike in optimal condition for the race tomorrow. Whoever she had chosen to ship this bike to the race had rattled her to pieces on the way here. The android would have to work overnight to get the bike set up right for their rider. He did his usual best to get the bike's engine ready, though his whispering encouragements did turn the heads of the race personnel and passersby alike. "They mistreated you, didn't they... Don't worry, I'm going to make you right as rain." As night had begun to fall, her bike had begun to seem less like a thrown-together pile of parts and more like a racing machine.

Going with a more aerodynamic race package that would supposedly get the most agility out of the bike, he hoped it would give Eleena the edge she needed to win. He only hoped she felt the same when he showed her the bike for the first time.

 

[Ova Ziss]

Image Credits:
HotPot.AI

Objective 1: The Track
Location: Diarchy VIP Boxes - Dantooine Open, Dantooine Space Station
Tags: Diarch Reign | Diarch Rellik | Lord Dvasius | Open
​

"Wanna play a game? Go shot for shot? I'm already ahead. Catch up and see if you maintain standing for long."

Ova chuckled. He smiled at the man: he liked this guy already! He was young and athletic. He was built like a swoop racer, but he wasn't down on the track preparing for anything. He could have been a Sith, or maybe a Diarch in training.

Oh no. That's right.

This thought reminded Ova of where he was, and in whose company. Ova turned to Diarch Reign and Diarch Rellik. Their expressions seemed uncertain to him. Ova started to remember what Rellik and Reign had told him several times: that he needed to temper his excitable energy. He gestured to the shot glasses and shook his hand dismissively, as if to say "you don't have to". Even though the Master Diarchs - the Sons of Karkus - seemed to be having a good time, Ova hesitated to take the alcohol as he looked at the Diarchs who had given him so much. Ova would be giving an important speech before the swoop race.

Professional. Be professional.

Ova slowly extended his thumb and pointer finger, clasping one of the shot glasses by the middle and giving Lord Dvasius a nod. "We'll have to play those drinking games later. I'll be giving a speech right before we kick off the first lap. " Ova chuckled and held up the glass, honoring the stranger. "This'll be my last shot until after the races start." He swallowed the drink. He shook his head as it went down his gullet. Then, Ova offered a stern, hardy handshake to the stranger. "Ova Ziss, Governor of Dantooine. Welcome to the VIP boxes, Mister...?"

"What do you think about a different sort of game?" Ova took a seat on a bar-stool and leaned forward. "We all know who's coming in first..." Ova smirked, giving Rellik a pat on the back.. "Let's bet on who is coming in second."

"Which racers do you like, other than Rellik? I like the look of Dani Stellaris . Ask me why I'm willing to bet on her."

The bartender looked utterly relieved that they weren't continuing to drink, and he slid an aluminum can of soda to Ova and then another to Lord Dvasius. "Go easy there, gentlemen. The races haven't started yet!" He shook his head, smirked, and started preparing cocktails for another table. "Those are free."

Just as Ova was getting ready to relax, a bell chimed in his VIP box. It was the holopad alarm, reminding him that he'd have to dress up for the speech.

"I'll be back after my speech, don't move a muscle. I'm giving my speech from this box right here, you'll hear it clearer than anyone else out there."

## EXIT THREAD - Temporary - Ova will return after he gives his speech ##

[ Read Ova's speech here ]

 

[Whottoomuzz Chantin]

OBJECTIVE 3​

Whottoomuzz loved watching a good swoop race. The underhanded tactics and crashes especially.

He had a VIP booth reserved at the nightclub, decorative leashes linking him to his dancers and his beloved Xoff Chantin who was currently ordering a new clutch of Klatooine Paddy Frogs for the table. Well, for whottoomuzz. Xoff did indeed take a liking to the bottle of Parvati 's black label, and a bottle was ordered for the table, a private bartending droid mixing as appropriate for the dancers and visitors he invited to join him-high rollers with creedo in the bookie business.

A large holoscreen displayed the race coverage over the table, at a comfortable table for the Hutt and their beauties.

Whottoomuzz chuckled the deep snicker that only a Hutt could. Business and pleasure, and a whole lot of credits to be made.

@OPEN​

 

[Dani Stellaris]

This was really what she liked. Racing, traveling the galaxy, and getting involved in groups that weren't really determined to go to war with one another. Sure, her ships were armed, and she'd done some training in an old N-1 to learn how to pilot in a warzone, but she wasn't a combat pilot. She was a racer and someone who'd have no problem serving as search and rescue, or a blockade runner.

Right now, though, she was taking delivery of the rented swoop bike for the Dantooine race. It meant going over the bike with her droid, as she had a day before the races started. It wasn't that she suspected sabotage, really, who was she? In a race against someone like the Jedi Grandmaster, why would anyone go for someone from one of the Naboo royal houses?

The bike seemed to all be in order, and that was all she needed. Now a day of rest and relaxation, checking out the gathering, and the pre-race festivities.

***

But when it came to race day? Dani and Mack made their way down to the pit, her bike was still in the stall she rented, locked up, and with a quick glance over, Dani confirmed no one had messed with anything, or if they did? They were being very cautious to replace her small turns on some bolts, so she could know if anything was removed.

"I think this'll be fun, Mack. A big group of folks here, thats true, but… even with Jedi here? I think I'll be fine." And really, she had less to lose than they did." Dani came with a small budget of her own, thanks to the Sato House of Naboo, but really, she came in without a sponsor. Preferred that. If she flew her way? No one would bother her in the long run.

The droid beeped at her and she smiled.

"No, the Pick Up is safe on the station… You can come to the line with me, if you'd like?" She smiled at the droid.

 

[XaraXunia]

Image Credits: HotPot.AI
Objective 3: Track Betting, Pazaak, Nightclub & Skullduggery
Tags: Whottoomuzz Chantin | Xoff Chantin | Parvati | Open​

Xaraxunia, who was a giant ten-foot-tall insectoid being, kicked the ground unhappily outside of the Cornerstone Club. He debated strongly whether he should go inside at all. He had experienced such a terrible reaction at the Grandstands when he tried to claim his VIP vestibule. A lot of people yelled. The humanzzz didn't like insects, even if said insectoid purchased a ticket to the race fair and square. They even told him, "Go share with the Hutt!" Insolent humans.

But, maybe that was possible, even if Xaraxunia had to use those dreaded "creditzzzz" everyone had. Oh, how Xar hated them so. Why couldn't the humanzzz just trade scrap and guns, like the bugs did? He just wanted to watch the race!

Entering the club, Xaraxunia spotted the Hutt, Whottoomuzz Chantin , in his private box. It was do or die.

He approached, exchanged words with the security, and allowed them to check him for weapons. Xar had nothing. The security guards would likely find the bug was not very suspicious, although he was tall, and quite intimidating to look at. But it wouldn't be the first time that an intimidating person was humbled by the Hutt. Xar was willing to bet on it.

"Lord Hutt, zzzzir", Xaraxunia said, bowing low to Whottoomuzz and his friends. "I've come to azzk you if I may zzhare your zzzpace for the zzswoop race today." He lowered his head. The insectoid's wings would beat slightly. How humiliating.

Inevitably, the Hutt would ask what Xaraxunia could do for him, and Xar had an answer right away: an answer that he hoped and begged would suffice.

"I can pay you creditzzzz. I can give you favorzzz. Zzz...zzzzt..." Xaraxunia closed his eyes for a moment, trying to sputter out the word. "My...zzzervizezz...ser...servi...zzzzzt...services...as the Conqueror of Koboth." He shook his head, wishing he had brought his protocol droid to translate for him. But, his broken Galactic Basic would have to suffice, as the insectoid did not speak Huttese very well. There were too many open vowels that the insectoid's four jaws could not click out correctly. Xaraxunia could hear the laughter now...or, was that just in his head?

The insectoid man produced his holo-wallet and showed the Hutt that there were funds inside of it. He spoke simply. "If you zzzhare with me - will help you. Will pay you. Tell me what you need, oh mighty Lord Hutt."

The insectoid went silent and lowered his head to the Hutt. He was falling onto the Hutt's mercy, and the Hutt's mercy was shallow for those he didn't like.

 

[Whottoomuzz Chantin]

"I've come to azzk you if I may zzhare your zzzpace for the zzswoop race today."

"Peedunkey order wa jeeska?"
Whottoomuzz teased, but in actuality was impressed by the humility and deference shown by the insectoid, considering the reputation that has spread.

Xoff Chantin whispered into the Hutt's ear, then translated as the Hutt spoke, **
[[Husband says you fought well on Mygeeto, contributed to his survival - no favors are necessary, you are welcome at the Hutt table.]]**

The Hutt nodded, confirming what the Zeltron spoke was true, then reached into the bucket of live Klantooine Paddy Frogs and grabbed one, still attempting to flee, broke it's spine to prevent it's kicking, and tossed it as a gift to XaraXunia - a wriggling live gift of the Hutt's favored snack.

"Whirlee, beegee dis pupa-guy's tab ne grancha killee won Chantin Kadijic."

The spouse of the hut translated once more for the Hutt, their smooth voice leaning more professional than sultry.
[[Your drinks are courtesy of the Hutt tonight. Have you a favored Pilot amongst the contestants?]]

XaraXunia | OPEN​

 

[Ova Ziss]

Image Credits:
HotPot.AI
Objective 1: Watch the Race!
Location: Diarchy VIP Boxes - Dantooine Open, Dantooine Space Station
Tags: Lord Dvasius | Lyssara Thrynn | Nyva Shei | Open
​

Ova happily strolls back into the Diarchy's VIP box section after the speech, pumping his fist. It was a victorious speech that he gave that accomplish exactly what he wanted. Ova told the people about the Fifth Wheel's terrorist machinations, which was the most important part. He showed people that he cared, by setting up a "Csilla Trust" for those affected by planetary annihilation. But best of all, he spread a spirit of unity and good-humored fun, so that terrorists would be too busy laughing to shell anybody today.

Ova strolls his happy stroll up to the bar counter, gives it a gentle thwap, and sits down. He asks everybody there, "Was that the best speech I've ever given?! TELL ME that wasn't the best speech I've ever given!"

Ova had to give an opening speech for the day's swoop race. Well...he didn't have to, but he felt compelled to do so. The piracy, corruption, and vitriol in the Braxant Run certainly came from the Fifth Wing. Ova knew exactly who the Diarchy needed to strike first: the banking clan. They had to be funding the Fifth Wing - them and the treacherous Trade Federation. Ova had been outmaneuvered financially, but he wouldn't ever let that happen again. But, Ova wouldn't mention this now. It was time to have fun, not talk about galaxy-wide conspiracies!

"It's time for INTERGALACTIC SHOTS!"

The bartender was lining them up already.

Nyva and Lyssara enter the room, too.

"Ah, my guests of honor!" Ova went up to Nyva and Lyssara, and enthusiastically shook their hands. He gestures to the wide-open VIP section. It is a glass vestibule box. From here, everyone gets a perfect angle of the swoop race below. "Come in, come in, sit wherever you'd like."

Ova sat with Lord Dvasius on his right, and Nyva on his left. "As I was saying--sorry, what was your name again?" Ova shakes Lord Dvasius's hand, since their first introduction had been interrupted.

"And Nyva, you've looking lovely today. And Lyssara, I quite like your dress. Your Boss and I will surely talk business later tonight...after we all sober up!" Ova gave Lyssara a gentle, playful nudge on the shoulder as she found her seat. Ova let out a chuckle.

"Right, Lord Dvasius! We were talking about favored racers. I want to see Dani Stellaris do well. But, do you know what I really want? I want Rellik to take the championship."

"What about you? Which racers do you like?" Ova gestured to Nyva, Lyssara and Lord Dvasius, and then to the racers. The racers and crew were making their final preparations before launching into the first section of the track.

Ova downed a shot, shook his head, and then took a glass of blood-red wine from the bartender. He just gave a great speech, he was surrounded by friends - and liquor! - and he was about to watch a swoop race, which was one of his favorite things in the whole wide universe. Today was a good day.

 

[XaraXunia]

Image Credits: HotPot.AI
Objective 3: Track Betting, Pazaak, Nightclub & Skullduggery
Tags: Whottoomuzz Chantin | Xoff Chantin | Parvati | Open​

Xaraxunia excitedly took a place in the Hutt's booth. He devoured the Patty Frog that he was offered. Perhaps it was rude, but the insectoid was starving from the long drive. He had saved all of the Kobok Union's precious royal jelly as fuel for their space slug ships.

"Thankzzzz, Lord Hutt! Truly, your kindnesszzzz knowzz no end! Thizzzzz, it izzz my favorite of all beingzzz to devour."

"Ah, Mygeeto." Xaraxunia lowered his head and grinned widely. "It was zzzzzo much fun to make thozz filthy Ennn and Zee zzzscumbags run and cower. Lighting the firezzzz, dezzztroying the enemy, and...ah, but the rzrrrrrzzzzzz. Letzzzz talk rzrzzzzz. The pilotzzz on the track."

"I LOVE the lookzzzz of Azurine Varek . What a beautiful zzzwoopzzzz. What a beautiful name. What a beautiful womanzzzz."

"Zzzzzt, if zzzshe did not have zzzzkin, I would take the zzwoopzzzz, and zzzshe could zzzztttt among my concubinezzzz! ZARZARZARZAR!"

"I muzzt know, zzt, Lord Hutt, who izzzz it that you favorzzz today?"

Xaraxunia laughed. He asked the waiter to bring him a large, succulent bottle of the most disgustingly sweet liquor that they had. After some translation, frustration, and non-verbal indicators, the waiter decided to bring Xar a bottle of butterscotch schnapps and sugar water to chase it down with. The buggy man opens up his four jaws to sip his new collection, shotgunning the schnapps in one hand and the sugar water in another.

A feed of the race would be broadcast on the holoscreen. Xaraxunia watches it intently. There is a brief moment when the racers are shown one by one on the screen, mounting their swoops and preparing for the go-light. Xaraxunia would be seen cheering for the screen when Azurine Varek and Wilhelm Vonreg are on it.

Xaraxunia's red and yellow eyes go extra buggy indeed when he sees the look of Azurine's new swoop bike. He has to have one.

 

[Lord Dvasius]

Ova slowly extended his thumb and pointer finger, clasping one of the shot glasses by the middle and giving Lord Dvasius a nod. "We'll have to play those drinking games later. I'll be giving a speech right before we kick off the first lap. " Ova chuckled and held up the glass, honoring the stranger. "This'll be my last shot until after the races start." He swallowed the drink. He shook his head as it went down his gullet. Then, Ova offered a stern, hardy handshake to the stranger. "Ova Ziss, Governor of Dantooine. Welcome to the VIP boxes, Mister...?"

"Alright. You go do that, Ova Ziss , Governor of Dantooine." The Sith Lord hesitated at the asking of his name and didn't seem to like being called mister, as his face would show in unhappy, squinted eyes. "Lord." He hesitated again, unsure if he should say the truth. His Shadows gave him updates on how they routing out and hunting down anyone who was or could tell anyone who wanted him dead about it. Making them "disappear". Seeing as danger was being removed he just said it, "It's Dvasius."

"Oh, I don't make bets. Telling you that was bet enough for both of us." The man likely didn't know what he meant but it didn't matter. It was an implication that if the wrong people were told his name they could both be dead before morning. The Sith by his own kind and Ova by the same hands or Dvasius' own men. "I don't know enough about any of these racers to make a safe bet anyway... No, I don't know. Why don't you tell me?"

As a boy Dvasius had attended many of these swoop races/pod races with his father who did enjoy betting on the racers... and anything else. Then the Sith Lord, known by his birth name, Jacste Selden, would be wandering around, letting his friends in and grifting fools out of their money or just straight up stealing it right out of their pockets.

His father hated this of course, since he would often even steal his money too, but what did the boy care? They'd never got along anyway. He'd been thinking of that a lot, of home, on Nar Shaddaa and back then. Not pleasant times, but a part of him nonetheless. Perhaps that was why he was drinking today. It definitely was, but not the only one. There were too many to be frank.

Just then the bartender announced the drinks were free, resulting in a relaxed and relieved, "Hell yeah." from the Sith who had already had enough to be at least comfortable in his own skin and among these people... or close. It was getting there. "I ain't going easy on chit!", Dvasius thought, but didn't say aloud.

He grabbed the soda can the bartender had put in front of him and popped it open as he watched Ova walk away to give his "great" speech. The Sith guessed he would wait and hold off on drinks until he came to start the game. Dvasius realized his hands felt weird when he grabbed the can and so did the rest of him come to think of it. He had at least a buzz going on, which if he waited long enough, even without taking more shots, would turn into feeling pretty drunk with how many he'd already taken. Though maybe not. His tolerance may not have been that low. Hard to tell sometimes.

Ova's speech wasn't expected to hold much sustenance, but surprisingly it did. He'd heard of the Fifth Wing, but not much. By their design of course, but the assassin supposed people who'd been directly affected by their actions would know more about them. In case he had too much fun to remember later Dvasius used the holonet connection his cybernetic afforded him to make notes of what he was hearing to help remember later. To learn so much from a speech regarding a race and a far off planet's wars. Ironic.

"Uh... yeah. I assume it was. I haven't heard your other speeches, so I wouldn't know, but yeah definitely the best out of all of 'em for sure." the Sith said, acting more out of it than he was. Truth was a lot of that was not interesting or important to him or his agenda, but he was listening to all of it.

"It's time for INTERGALACTIC SHOTS!"

"Eyyy!", Dvasius exclaimed, strangely happy to see his new "friend" again. It was probably just the whiskey, but having a drinking buddy was always more fun than not having one. Speaking of people he was friendly with he remembered he came here with Lady Falentra , not that he (or his heart) could forget her. He motioned her over with his curled finger then with his hand, and eventually he resorted to pleading with his hands together as if praying and making sad eyes at her, then dropping it. "Come on. Come get drunk with me. We're gonna have fun. Today's not gonna be about work. Promise.", he didn't say "I promise" in case he was wrong later, he could have some plausible deniability.

At first Dvasius didn't want to shake the man's hand or anyone's. He didn't do that, but he has been told he should be friendlier with people, just in case. A lone Sith needed allies, if not actual friends. He rolled his eyes while he did it and again when the man seemingly forgot his name, "Its-", then the governor answered for himself. The assassin sat there with a blank expression on his face, like saying "Hmmph." without actually saying it. He didn't think the man was really paying attention to him anyways so much as his other guests.

"Right, Lord Dvasius! We were talking about favored racers. I want to see Dani Stellaris do well. But, do you know what I really want? I want Rellik to take the championship."

"What about you? Which racers do you like?"

"Hmm? ... Why? He paying your bills? Hm... I don't know. That one. Whoever that is. I don't know. Them. Whatever." he pointed at Eupheira Besserit then turned to take two more shots, which he gulped down with more soda. "Come on! Are we playing this game or not, governor?" he said that a little mockingly of the title.

Dvasius watched as Ova Ziss took a shot and downed it with... wine? "My God! Now I respect the hell out of you." For Dvasius this was also a great day. Getting drunk with fun people and hanging out with Falentra. Awesome... and oddly wholesome. This was weird, but nice.



Darius Vex
Diarch Rellik

 

[Ova Ziss]

Image Credits:
HotPot.AI
Objective 1: Watch the Race!
Location: Diarchy VIP Boxes - Dantooine Open, Dantooine Space Station
Tags: Lord Dvasius | Lyssara Thrynn | Nyva Shei | Lady Falentra | Darius Vex | Open​

"...Lord."

"Ohoh! Lord Ziss. Heh. I could get used to that."

"Hmm? ... Why? He paying your bills?"

Ova chuckled. "BWAHAHAHA! Did you hear that, Lyssara Thrynn ? The kid asked if Rellik is paying the bills! Oh, he's definitely sauced." Ova leaned over his shoulder at the nightsister. Ova pointed at the star-studded cast around the room and on the track. Gesturing to Lyssara and then at himself, Ova says, "Everybody here works for Diarch Rellik and Diarch Reign. Actually, I dunno if you know, but you're sitting in the Diarchy's VIP box. Somebody at the space station must've really liked you."

"Lyssara is a researcher and alchemist who helps Rellik often. Nyva works for the Diarchy's navy, through Lyssara." Ova pointed down at racer number four. "Rellik is co-leader of the Diarchy".

Ova pointed out to a platinum-colored box where the crew and racers' closest family sat. "That man with the thick beard and hair, that is Diarch Reign, he is the leader of the Diarchy."

Ova points back to the track now. "And over there, racer number two is Valery Noble . Jedi Grandmaster." He nods, and says to Dvasius seriously, "Don't heckle her - if you can help it. The Alliance draws huge credits out to the Braxant Run."

"Hm... I don't know. That one. Whoever that is. I don't know. Them. Whatever."

"Oh c'mon, her? Eupheira Besserit ? Number ten? ...well, she is cute, I'll give you that, but...eh, we're gonna get you cheering for Rellik by the end of this. RIGHT, EVERYBODY?" Ova raised the now-empty wine glass to the rest of the room.

"Come on! Are we playing this game or not, Governor?"

Ova took a shot as soon as he was challenged, then overturned it. He wasn't gonna lose to some punk kid!

"That's three."

And another.

"And now, we're even. Your move, my lord."

Ova was feeling tipsy already. His age and constitution likely wouldn't handle him taking four shots one after another. But, he was standing upright and holding his own...you know, for now. And it probably wouldn't affect him too much. Whoah, what was that spinning? That was good stuff.

 

[Whottoomuzz Chantin]

"Thankzzzz, Lord Hutt! Truly, your kindnesszzzz knowzz no end! Thizzzzz, it izzz my favorite of all beingzzz to devour."

Well, the insectoid had taste, at least. The squirming and delicate crunch of amphibious bone with chew flea was delectable.

"Ah, Mygeeto." Xaraxunia lowered his head and grinned widely. "It was zzzzzo much fun to make thozz filthy Ennn and Zee zzzscumbags run and cower. Lighting the firezzzz, dezzztroying the enemy, and...ah, but the rzrrrrrzzzzzz. Letzzzz talk rzrzzzzz. The pilotzzz on the track. [...] muzzt know, zzt, Lord Hutt, who izzzz it that you favorzzz today?"

The insectoid seemed to favor some Jedi Zabrak, almost lusting after her. Jedi Zabrak was an odd enough word pairing for Whotoomuzz to ponder, but At least it wasnt some figurehead of a major galactic power.

[[The Lord Hutt says your mutual friend from Mygeeto is somehow here, intending to race.]] Xoff Chantin translated with a sultry smirk. [[They express they don't have high hopes for all the imperial, Jedi, and Diarch racers. The Hutt recommends you don't place any bets on our mutual acquaintance Mr. Usher ]].

Whottoomuzz chuckled maliciously.

The vile thing that somehow survived total destruction on Mygeeto was in for a threefold surprise. A lackey of the cartel hat planted a thermal detonators on the swoop bike's ignition and disabled both the breaks and the steering.

The Hutt would enjoy watching the meat-men burn to death once more.

XaraXunia | OPEN​

 

[Mikremx Tremsi]

Objective 3: Track Betting, Pazaak, Nightclub & Skullduggery
Tag: Whottoomuzz Chantin | XaraXunia | Xoff Chantin​

A particularly vicious-looking young Barabel stood guard near the Hutt, his spiked customized armor adorned with trinkets taken in raids. Of any of the mercenaries nearby, he was among the more visibly ruthless—emerald armor deliberately scarred, each mark a story of a consortium mercenary trying to carve his place into the Cartel.

Close to the Boss and their husband, a challenge to anyone foolish enough to test him. Reputation had to be built—he was here to be seen. If another wanted his position, they'd have to take it from him. A certain Rodian had been eyeing his spot all night. That would need settling afterwards.

Nearby, a large, imposing insectoid figure exchanged words with the Boss, and instinct took over. Mikremx sized them up. Could he kill it? Could he take it apart, piece by piece? Always necessary. Never personal. Its feeding habits didn't bother him. His own weren't so different—just more meat and plenty of gristle. It made him a bit hungry.

The galaxy still held its mysteries for the young Barabel. Racing, for instance, was it a blood sport? Did they kill each other along the way? That would make for good entertainment. More importantly, what was the prize? Slaves of the losers? Their ships? Heads mounted on spikes?

Predatory eyes lingered on the pazaak tables. Gambling was familiar. The race less so. His features tightened in something close to irritation as he watched, trying to make sense of it. The racers on-screen pulled his focus next, the conversation around him shifting. The spiked ones—Iridonians, Naamino Zuukamano and Azurine Varek stood out. The rest? Too smooth-skinned. Soft. No chance they'd take them. He found himself agreeing with the stranger. Pointing when they were on screen and nodding to one of the other mercs.

The urge to bet stirred in his blood. But who was worth putting credits on?

OOC + Gear

Spoiler

Loose posting for me, just here for flavor feel free to skip me.
Armor: Emerald Iron minus helmet.
Back: Songsteel Vibroaxe | Back: Ripper RAT
Belt: 2x Cryoban Grenade |1x EMP Grenade | 1x Anti material Grenade
Hip: 2x Revolving Doors Magnums | 2x Bacta Injections

 

[Nyva Shei]

"Governor, if you keep this up, I might start believing that you always have a special seat reserved for me at your table," I murmur with a smile, leaning slightly toward him as I take my place by his side. "But I must admit, I don't mind it at all."

I take the glass the server just placed in front of me, lifting it slightly toward him before taking a sip. The alcohol dances on my tongue, adding a pleasant warmth to the already vibrant atmosphere of the room.

"As for the racers… Hmm." I glance at the screens displaying the competitors' statistics and faces. "It's hard to choose. I haven't quite decided who has my support yet. Maybe you'll be able to convince me."

I turn my face toward him, amusement gleaming in my eyes, letting the implication linger in the air.

When he mentions the rest of the evening, I set my glass down with an intrigued smile. "Oh, I had no doubt about that. You and I both know that real business isn't conducted under the spotlight." I let my hand brush against his for just a moment before pulling back, a gesture both natural and deliberate.

"I accept, of course." I hold his gaze, a hint of mischief in my voice. "But first, let's enjoy the race and this wonderful atmosphere you've orchestrated so well. It's magnificent, Governor."

I settle more comfortably into my seat, my smile lingering as I soak in the energy of the moment, knowing that the real game will be played later, away from prying eyes. Speaking of eyes, I take the opportunity to flash him a charming smile in silent thanks for his earlier compliment.

Ova Ziss

 

[Ova Ziss]

Image Credits: HotPot.AI
Objective 1: Watch the Race!
Location: Diarchy VIP Boxes - Dantooine Open, Dantooine Space Station
Tags: Lord Dvasius | Lyssara Thrynn | Nyva Shei | Lady Falentra | Darius Vex | Open​

"Governor, if you keep this up, I might start believing that you always have a special seat reserved for me at your table. But I must admit, I don't mind it at all."

"For you, Nyva? Of course there's a special seat for you." Ova smiles at her. "I find you to be an interesting person. I was wondering where you learned your healing abilities? Now that, that is interesting."

"As for the racers… Hmm. It's hard to choose. I haven't quite decided who has my support yet. Maybe you'll be able to convince me."

"NYVA! Come on, now!" Ova smiled and laughed as he jokingly chastised her. Ova touched her hand. He felt a little surge of energy in his stomach, a twinge of anxiety. He felt excitement at what secrets the night held. It was an interesting sensation. The VIP box was bustling now, since the races were just about to start. "We're here to support Rellik. He is Racer Number Four down there!"

Ova cupped his mouth and shouted encouragement through the window of the box. "HEY, RELLIK! THAT'S MY GUY!" The media's camera footage on the holoscreen hadn't shown Rellik yet, but Ova could see him down on the track below.

"Oh, I had no doubt about that. You and I both know that real business isn't conducted under the spotlight."

"I believe that we have a lot of business together." Ova said. "Oh, look at the screen!" Ova pointed up so that Dvasius, Lyssara, and Nyva would look at the feed of the race. The fierce expressions on the faces of Valery Noble and Dani Stellaris led Ova to believe that they would push their swoop bikes to the limits. "Look up there! Look at Valery Noble. She smells blood!"

This would be an excellent race, no matter who won or lost. And Nyva was smiling at him.

 

[Diarch Rellik]

Tags: Ova Ziss Diarch Reign

Objective 1: The Track & The Garage

From time to time the Diarchs did things solely for the sake of living. Walks through the city's of Bastion and other planets. Spending time in the Cantina with citizens. These were not merely exercises in humanity to keep them bound to the promises of their people but to also bring them back to the days when they were nothing more than brothers.

As the day began Ova introduced them to many people as Rellik was grabbing his keys. There was one practitioner of the dark side that caught his eye. There would be many new individuals here today and when the race was over the Diarch would be happy to meet them all. Especially the Hutt in attendance.

With the Governor moving to give his speech Rellik would go down to work on the bike with Reign for a moment.

Tinkering with the DFS-100 he thought back on his youth on Taris. The last swoop bike he rode was when he and Reign broke down into the lower levels and stole won from a prominent gang. Speeding through the hallways down to where the normal races were held it was one of the rashest moments of his younger years. With Reign on the backseat berating him for his lack of tact and deal making. Rushing to just taking the bike itself.

Diarch Reign "Just like old times aye my brother." Giving the larger stronger brother a slight nudge as he spoke. "At least this time you will only be in the crew and not on the back." Laughing with every comment.

"I may be a poor pilot but today it is not about winning. It is about taking time out of our lives to be people. To remember what it means to be alive. I will see you in the pit." Reaching out and giving his brother a firm hand clasp as the two prepared to rock the race track.

 

[Nyva Shei]

He doesn't beat around the bush. His touch on my hand is subtle, yet I sense it keenly. Instead of pulling away, I decide to assert my presence, gently entwining my fingers with his. My palm is warm against his, and I eagerly await his reaction. For his compliment it makes me blush slightly, the alcohol not helping I have trouble hiding.


His gaze is direct as he asks his question, a genuine inquiry that betrays his sincere interest. He wants to know where I acquired my healing skills.

"Well, Governor, I learned them within my own clan, and then at the Obroa-Skai Academy of Medicine. I can thank the Mistress for paying for my studies."

I keep my hand anchored in his, holding his gaze with a subtle smile. His remark about our presence here to support Diarch Rellik is reasonable. Apparently, this would be the fourth...

Around us, the atmosphere is at its peak. The crowd exults, carried by the festive fervor. The champagne glasses gradually empty, but the service is impeccable: as soon as one glass is finished, another replaces it immediately. The atmosphere is intoxicating.

When he mentions business, I simply nod with a slight smile. I'm curious to see what he has in mind.

He draws my attention to the screen, and I focus on the face that appears: Valery Noble. A hunch crosses my mind.

"Isn't that the leader of the Jedi Order, by any chance?"

If it is indeed her, the race promises to be spectacular. The stakes are high, and there's no doubt credits will be flowing. My gaze drifts to the odds board. The favorites are already emerging, the numbers shifting before my eyes, reflecting the feverish predictions.

I decide not to bet, though. The excitement of the moment is enough for me.

"The race promises to be interesting!"

I take a new glass of champagne, savoring it fully.

Ova Ziss

 

[Ova Ziss]

Image Credits: HotPot.AI

Objective 1: Watch the Race!
Location: Diarchy VIP Boxes - Dantooine Open, Dantooine Space Station
Tags: Lord Dvasius | Lyssara Thrynn | Nyva Shei | Lady Falentra | Darius Vex | Open


"Well, Governor, I learned them within my own clan, and then at the Obroa-Skai Academy of Medicine. I can thank the Mistress for paying for my studies."

"Beautiful and educated? Ohoh, Nyva, the more I hear about you, the more I like you. I was educated at the Imperial Academy, as a computer scientist and commercial ship pilot. I caused a lot of trouble. I was part of a biker group. Heh."

"Is your contract with Lyssara exclusive? That is to say, would you ever come and work for me?" Another ambiguously-worded statement. The alcohol and the relaxing environment was making Ova at ease. He hadn't been this comfortable to flirt with a woman in a long time. She had a young body, but there was something inside of Nyva that was...much older. Ova could not quite put his finger on it.

"Yes, I think--OH, WAIT, IT'S STARTING!"

"THREE...TWO...ONE..."

The moment the flag-girl drops the checkered racing flag, something happens. The spectators watch racer number eight explode. It is a brilliant conflagration. The pieces of the exploded DFS-100 swoop bike rain over the racetrack, which is far enough from the grandstands to keep the spectators and the other racers safe. The other racers in the back-facing race position must quickly swerve past the explosion. The other racers push forwards and the camera-droids follow them, trying not to document the death and destruction too much.

"OH, MY FORCE! USHER JUST EXPLODED!" Ova pointed at the screen, standing up. That was gonna cost him credits in a lawsuit for sure.

The bio-husk man Mr. Usher was warned multiple times not to use himself as his own crew, but he insisted that he "could fix the engine himself". Mr. Usher must have made some sort of catastrophic mechanical mistake that caused the bike to explode.

That, or sabotage.

"The Hutt recommends you don't place any bets on our mutual acquaintance Mr. Usher."

"SON OF A SITH! That bike costs a thousand credits! SOMEONE GET ME A SHOT!" Ova tapped gently on the table for the bartender's attention.

"Isn't that the leader of the Jedi Order, by any chance?"

"Yeah! Valery Noble is the Grandmaster of the Jedi Order! AND SHE JUST PULLED AHEAD OF RELLIK!"

"TWO SHOTS! TWO SHOTS!" Ova called to the bartender, holding out two fingers. He cupped the shots, downed them one by one, and then gave his whole body a shake. "And please, get something for the lady too, barkeep!"

Ova looked into Nyva's eyes again. But then, he looked back at the races. What's happening on the screen was exciting!

Ova stood up again, grasping the bar as the swoop bikes picked up speed. Ova was watched wide-eyed as Valery Noble swooped right past Diarch Rellik. Dani Stellaris fought for dominance of first place, only to be overtaken by Azurine Valek, leaving Dani and Valery to fight for second place. Azurine's crotchrocket bike zipped past both competitors, receiving a huge boost from the boost pads. The speed of her crotchrocket sends such a strong downwards wind along the track that it almost put out the fire.

All of that excitement, and they weren't even past the first segment yet!

The camera feed then switched to Mr. Usher's craft. It was burning up. Mr. Usher would have long abandoned the bio-husk by now.

"I'm ahead by four now, Dvasius! SCREW IT! A thousand credits say I can drink you under the table, fruitcake!"

He sits down next to Nyva and Dvasius.

He clears his throat.

"Sorry. I uh...I love swoop racing."

Ova now openly holds Nyva's hand. A little "liquid courage" had helped him with his quest to woo Nyva with his larger-than-life personality. Ova lowers his voice to speak to Nyva. "Order whatever you'd like from the bar. Make yourself at home." Ova gave Nyva's hand a gentle squeeze. Now, he wasn't watching the cameras. Now, his eyes were back on Nyva.