Faction Slice of Life Day: Hindsight's 2020 | Open to GA and Friends

[Okkeus Dainlei]

Location: Coruscant, Jedi Temple
Goal: Socialize
Items: Robe, Lightsaber, new sweater!
Tags: Auteme | Ryv | Zaavik Perl | Allyson Locke | Maynard Treicolt | Loske Treicolt | Dagon Kaze | Marae Tavlar | Nylea Apollodor | Elisea Korrado
​

As Auteme began to reach around for a sweater, he couldn't believe that she actually got one for him. They had seen each other like, three times in total? He didn't know how long these others knew Auteme, but it was super thoughtful and awesome for what she was doing for the holidays.

When she handed him a sweater he gladly accepted it. Holding it outwards with both hands he look at the design. On it was an X-Wing flying through a starry night, with a funny quote attached to it.

"Thank you so much Auteme! I love it!"

Now holding the sweater in his robotic hand, he used his free one to lift his shirt off. He saw a few other people do it earlier, so he thought nothing of it. Now with his shirt off he slipped the sweater on. It was a perfect fit, and thankfully not too itchy!

Loosely folding his other shirt he then shoved it in his pocket. He looked down at the sweater again, admiring the design. The X-Wing was just too perfect.

As more new faces showed up he began to realize he only knew a few people here. Hopefully if he stuck around some more he could chat it up, getting to know them more. They were Jedi, after all, just like him. Smiling, he thought that this Life Day couldn't get any better!

 

[Adhira Chandra]

The Chancellor smiled warmly as Dracken Pryce sheepishly apologized for intruding on the evening she was spending with her family. She inclined her head and laughed when the twins relented and joined their father in remorse. This time, her husband, Aarav was the one to speak. "No apology necessary, my wife is far softer than she would like most people to believe," his hand went to hers on the table and squeezed lovingly. Adhira bristled at the remark and gave her husband a sideways glance. "Yes, well, let's not go spreading that around," she retorted, squeezing his hand back. Aarav's smile was implacable. Of course, he was correct, she was much softer than most people thought she was, but the last thing she wanted was people forgetting how prudent it was to be afraid of her.​

"It was good to see you again, Admiral Pryce," she concluded their conversation with a polite nod to the military officer and spared a wink for the twins, noting that it brought a twinkle of joy to their eyes. As they disappeared from her immediate line of sight, Adhira noticed one of her aides lingering near her husband's chair and knew immediately why.​

When Adhira gave her ascent, the young man approached. "Ma'am, it's time," he gestured to the podium that overlooked the rest of the assembly. The older woman nodded and though she looked a little annoyed, she leaned over and planted a gentle kiss on Aarav's cheek before gathering up her skirts and standing. As she made her way to the lectern which commanded a central dais in the Temple's Great Hall, another flourish of brass instruments sounded from the musicians on the balcony above. At the crescendo of the melody, Adhira took the final step that brought her to the fore of everyone's eyesight and cleared her throat.​

"My fellow citizens," her voice was full of warmth as she addressed, not just those gathered in the room, but the millions of Alliance citizens who would be watching on the holonet, "at this most sacred time of year, we herald the coming of Life Day by turning on the lights. From the marine cities of Velusia to the towers of Corellia, we adorn our homes, our places of worship, and even our offices with twinkling lights that are meant to remind us of the importance of family, joy, and harmony." Adhira gestured to one of the Life Day trees that flanked the podium.​

"These values and these lights are of particular importance this year... a year in which we saw a violent resurgence of the Sith Empire - a call that this Alliance could not allow to go unanswered. The battles that were fought on Korriban and Felucia were long and arduous. Many lives were lost. Many more were forever changed. This Life Day, we must remember the sacrifices of those brave heroes who sought to bring light to the dark places of our galaxy. As a mother, a grandmother, and as your Chancellor, my heart aches for the lights that went out during this fateful time, but we must not despair."​

Behind Adhira, holo projections of Alliance soldiers in uniform began to appear over her head. The men and women of a variety of species looked out serenely over the gathering, each with the insignia of their home planet behind them.​

"Their courage in battle will never be forgotten and their deaths will not be in vain. We will honor their memories by continuing to shine a light in dark places and by finally ending the reign of terror that the Sith have long presided over."​

"And while all of our soldiers and Jedi fought valiantly on the dark plains of Korriban and the canopied jungles of Felucia, we would be remiss to not give special recognition to those who performed extraordinary feats of heroism." The Chancellor nodded to seemingly no one, but an honor guard of Defense Force members processed to the dais, several of them holding ornate black boxes.

"Maynard Treicolt... Loske Treicolt ... Captain Raith ... Ryv Karis..." she paused solemnly and held her hand out to the space below the podium left open by the honor guard, "stand before me."

Spoiler: Tags

Zaavik Perl Teica Giraan Seto du Couteau Asmundr Varobalder Auteme Cassus Demici Ryv Ravraa Vyshraal Aerarii Tithe Marae Tavlar @Dagon Ripley Kühn Bernard Darth Daiara Kier Grey Loske Treicolt Ashessal Darth Daiara Elisea Korrado

​

​

 

[Zaavik Perl]

S H A D O W
The Galactic Alliance
CORUSCANT // Jedi Temple

「 NO ONE KNOWS 」​

Snow tracked into the chamber off damp, black boots. Zaavik slipped back into the Life Day party crowd as if he'd never left. Newly acquired Corellian Coin rolled between the fingers of his right hand. Mid-stride fidgeting carried him back towards the group he'd stood with previously. Hopefully, as far as they were concerned, he'd done little more than take a piss.

"Maynard Treicolt... Loske Treicolt ... Captain Raith ... Ryv Karis..." she paused solemnly and held her hand out to the space below the podium left open by the honor guard, "stand before me."​

​

A sigh of relief escaped his lips. Perfect timing. No one would have the time or attention to question him. Not right now, at the very least, and that was good enough.

 

[Auteme]

Allyson Locke Loske Treicolt Dagon Kaze Zaavik Perl Marae Tavlar Okkeus Dainlei Elisea Korrado Nylea Apollodor Kat Decoria Ryv Adhira Chandra | COME AND ACQUIRE SWEATER​

Allyson's arrival was a bit of a surprise, given the woman's mixed reception by the New Jedi Order, but Auteme grinned and reached into her bag again. Life Day was a happy time. She was glowing with holiday spirit.

The sweater came out with a flourish, a beautiful garment of blue and red, a fantastical sleigh plastered on the front. "Sleigh My Name, Sleigh My Name" was the tagline plastered on the front. In truth she'd toiled day and night in search of a good holiday pun for Allyson -- after all, Locke was such an excellent name for puns normally. But she hadn't been able to come up with anything. Still, thinking so long about the name had brought her what was now on the sweater. She grinned and passed it to Allyson. "There you go!"

Okkeus's thanks only made Auteme's smile widen. Bringing joy to others brought joy to her. "I'm glad you like it!"

The fanfare from the podium in the main hall of the Temple wasn't quite enough to stop Auteme from bouncing around. Still, she pushed down her excitement and hushed the others like a mother to her children. As the Chancellor called the names, she smiled and gave Loske a little poke on the arm. Auteme was surrounded by incredible people. It was good to see everyone else recognizing it.

 

[Ryv]

S W O R D _ O F _ T H E _ J E D I
GALACTIC ALLIANCE
NEW JEDI ORDER
CELEBRATE
Adhira Chandra | Loske Treicolt

ITS THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR​

Staring up at the council chamber's ceiling always calmed Ryv's nerves. He assumed it had something to do with the room's history, not so much the actual act of staring. The sloping walls met at a rounded dome littered with cracks. Hundreds of small fissures spread across the convex surface, coming together at certain points as if by design, though the overall sight was nothing more than an ode to time's inevitable passing. All things, no matter how beautiful, eventually fall apart. The Jedi Order of old could not survive the test of time. Something blinded them to reality, allowing for more dubious powers to fester and grow in strength.

Many great Jedi were lost during the Jedi Purge. The Dark Side's corruptive influence turned some, while the Galactic Empire hunted others and slaughtered them like animals. Much greater Jedi than him could do nothing in the face of the inevitable. How would he fare in the future? He lived every day like it was his last. Aside from the front, planning wasn't something Ryv put much thought into. His emotions guided him. Instinct proved his greatest ally. Would it be enough to get those he loved to the end?

"Lost, you find yourself. From the council, you seek guidance."

Ryv sat up straight, his entire body leaping into action at the auditory intrusion. He turned towards the source of his confusion, the small chair behind him, fit for someone no larger than a child.

"Uh..." Ryv looked elsewhere in the room. "I guess?"

A small creature took shape within the center seat. Two big ears poked off of a wrinkled head, sunken eyes peeked out from behind hollowed cheekbones. It lifted a three-pronged hand and pointed a shaky finger at the Jedi Knight.

"Answers you seek. Find them within others you shall."

"...." Ryv stared in silence for several seconds before he cleared his throat. "I'm flummoxed, not gonna lie to you. I think I know who you are. Auteme made a cute little sweater with your face on it, though you don't look like an endless evil as a force ghost."

The tiny Jedi Master chortled for a moment. His small form rocked back and forth, only kept aloft by the cane held within his six fingers. Ryv watched with a smile all his own. When he spoke out in hopes of finding help, he hadn't expected someone to actually answer him, let alone a Jedi Master who'd seen centuries of life.

"Trust in Master Skywalker's words, you must."

"Alrighty," the kiffar shrugged. "I'll give it a try."

The little green alien lifted his cane and slammed its point on the seat beneath him. A knowing smile took shape on his face. "No. Try not. Do or do not."

Ryv perked a brow.

"There is no try," the fallen Jedi Master finished, fading away beside his final words.

"Hum," Ryv turned away from the seat and moved towards the door. The saying itself was familiar, something he'd heard his father say hundreds of times during their lessons together in Ryv's youth. The mantra always confused the kiffar. "How can I do anything without trying? That doesn't really make sense."

He sighed and turned to depart the council chamber.

 

[Aaran Tafo]

"Despite everything. Still always doubting yourself huh?"

From a speaker he did not hear nor sense enter the room. A familiar voice rang. One that called back memories of practice spars, fighter racing, consumption of copious amounts of greasy cantina food. Pitched battles against madmen as the skies burned. Standing back to back in an attempt to protect the innocent from those who would take advantage of them. It belong to none other than his old friend.

Granted, the Kiffar's old friend had seen better days. His long hair, usually kept in a tight bun, now was cut shorter. His normally cleanly shaven face graced with light stubble and grit. His clothes remained the same as ever. The familiar flight jacket and cargo pants. Utilitarian and plain. Although all of it seemed more worn than before. His eyes still remained the same. Warm, but with a hidden steel behind them. A sense of certainty held behind them that was not there the last time the Human and Kiffar met.

Despite his smile, there was some apprehension in his stride as he took a step forward. Not quite sure how his old friend would react to his sudden appearance after so long. Much had changed in the Galaxy during Aaran's disappearance. And an unexplained arrival like this could get just as much a negative reaction as a positive one.

"My Grandma gave me the same. Do or Do not nonsense." He said, letting out a slightly nervous laugh as he tried to break the ice. "Apparently its all about confidence. You go in without the intent to succeed, you just set yourself up to fail. Instilling doubt and all that stuff."

He looked around, eyes drifting to the various seats in the council chamber. Mind wandering for the briefest of moments of what matters might have been discussed within these ways during the height of the Old Republic. But he quickly dimissed such musings. Instead turning his attention back to Ryv.


"Sorry I was gone. Did not mean to take that long of a leave of absence."

Ryv

 

[Teica Giraan]

[Location: Orbit of Coruscant - G.A Frigate Peacemaker - Bridge]
[Focus: Captain Teica Giraan]

The Peacemaker's bridge crew turned their chairs to face the viewscreen as the chancellor's speech was filmed and broadcasted to them. Together, they had their hearts and feelings mercilessly contorted and broken. Suppressed weeping and loud sniffles echoed across the room, but no one spoke. Teica gripped the arm of her chair and took several deep inhales, trying to resist the urge to leave the bridge and cry in her quarters.

Then the Chancellor called forth four members of the crowd, and the captain released her hold of the chair. She let out an exhale and slowly rose from her seat. Standing at ease, the captain let a light smile appear on her face. She clicked her boots against the polished flooring, and planted them in place. Then, without hesitation, her right hand made its journey to meet her forehead in a salute.

A tear fell to the metallic flooring of the Peacemaker's bridge.

 

[Ryv]

S W O R D _ O F _ T H E _ J E D I
GALACTIC ALLIANCE
NEW JEDI ORDER
CELEBRATE
Aaran Tafo | Adhira Chandra | Loske Treicolt | Auteme

ITS THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR
​

Hearing that voice felt like slamming into a brick wall. Ryv stopped moving entirely. His blood amber gaze transfixed on the lost Jedi Padawan not ten feet from him. For a moment, the kiffar refused to move. Earlier frustrations melted away, replaced first by joy. It split his lips into a wide, toothy grin. That excitement carried him towards Aaran in an instant. Ryv threw his arms open for a hug, only to stop a few steps short of his missing friend. He dropped his arms, opting to rest one at his belt while holding the second out for a fistbump.

"Almost forgot you weren't a fan of physical contact," Ryv smiled apologetically. "You don't have to apologize about being gone, man. I'm just glad you're back!"

Ryv withdrew his other hand and looked back at the ring of empty chairs. "You know how I am. For everything else I can manage to do, shaking away the self-doubt still isn't very easy. Guess it's just easier to believe I'm an imposter than accept that others genuinely rely on my leadership. It might make the next big failure less painful, or maybe I'll feel less bad when everyone realizes I'm not the guy they think I am. Hard to say."

He shrugged, turning back to Aaran. "My old man used to say the same thing. I can only assume it's some kinda lesson the Jedi before us, learned. Difficult to pass on after the fall of the Republic."

Eager to catch up with his friend, Ryv struggled to shut up and just hear Aaran out. Listening was never one of the kiffar's strong suits. He liked speaking, as well as knowing people heard what he had to say. It provided a sense of validation he lacked somewhere earlier in life. He figured it was just another solution to his lack of self-confidence. If others could stand behind him, hear what he had to say, and believe in his message, then he couldn't outright ignore reality. Yet, Aaran somehow caught him in that exact predicament. Go figure.

"You look a tad worn out," Ryv moved past his friend, nodding towards the hall as he stepped through the door. "C'mon, let's go get you something a bit more festive to wear. Plenty of food and drink out there, too."

Ryv looked up at Aaran during their trip through the temple halls. "There's a lot to catch you up on, but I don't think it's worth getting into tonight. I know a group of people who'd be happy to see you're back. Once things settle down and NJO gets back to business, I can help you figure out where you wanna go from here. I know the Order would welcome you with open arms. You're a helluva fighter. Just don't wanna push you into the shit without giving you a chance to settle down first."

A few minutes of walking saw them back in the temple's entry hall just in time to hear Ryv's name announced by the Chancellor.

"Well, duty calls, bud," he motioned towards the familiar forms of Auteme and Loske gathered among a group of half a dozen others. "I'll try and catch you after the speeches and stuff. Bet you have a sick story to tell about your time away, and I'd love to hear it."

Ryv tried to reassure Aaran with a smile before turning towards the summons. A familiar mix of panic and excitement tangled together within him. Rather than wait it out, he took a deep breath, squared his shoulders, and marched towards the podium. Seeing Loske and Maynard making their way forward helped calm his nerves enough to ensure he didn't trip on himself as he climbed the short steps onto the raised platform. He stopped in front of the Chancellor and greeted Chandra with the typical smile and nod.

"Evening, Chancellor."

 

[Aaran Tafo]

In a rare display. The larger young man did not respond to the fist bump. Instead throwing his arms open to embrace the Kiffar in a hug. Letting out a soft laugh as he did so. "I've missed you all.." He said, tone slightly subdued. Ryv's own reaction upon seeing him washing away. A small poisonous part of him had been expecting rejection, or perhaps some resentment. But there was none of that present. Just acceptance.

He allowed the Sword of the Jedi to lead him back to the main hall's festivities. Giving the slighest nod at Ryv's mention at there being so much to catch up on. "There's a lot for me to catch up on it seems. Was kind of our of the loop while I was gone. No holonet access." He said, letting out a soft exhale of amusement at the understatement.

Schisms in the Sith Empire. Tension between the various Jedi order being at an all-time high. Blood was in the water now that the legendary Homeworld of the Sith sat within Jedi hands. He shook his head. Dark days were on the horizon. He picked an opportune moment to return it seemed. "But I could really go for some food right now.." He mused, allowing the Sword of the Jedi to escort him back to his other old friends.

Naturally, he was unsurprised to see Auteme surrounded by people. Being the ever-caring ball of energy and enthusiasm that she was. It was good to see at least some things had not changed since he was gone. And so, he musted his courage and fought down his social anxiety as he strode forward. His tall form easily picked out over the crowd as he approached Auteme and Loske.

"That." He said, raising a finger to point at the home made sweaters that Auteme was passing out. "Is impressive." He was genuine. Patience may have been a virtue that the Jedi Order expoused, but he never really could take the time to learn a practical hobby like knitting. "Do you take requests? Do you have something like a Rancor wearing a Life Day hat or something? Because that would be amazing."

His tone was jovial, conversational. Trying to break the ice. But similar with Ryv, his stance was just a little bit aprehensive. Awkward. Unsure of how his old friends would react after his leave of absence when his presence might have been needed.


Ryv Auteme Loske Treicolt

 

[Loske Treicolt]

CORUSCANT // LIFE DAY // GET A MEDAL
Maynard Treicolt // Auteme // Zaavik Perl // Marae Tavlar Dagon Kaze // Okkeus Dainlei // Aaran Tafo // Allyson Locke // Adhira Chandra

"Loske! I was worried I wouldn't find a familiar face here tonight. You need to grab one too, I can guarantee you they're way more comfortable than the flight jackets we're used to."​

“It’s good seeing you again, Marae.” She flashed a knowing grin, reflecting on the contest of Blue vs. Red in the skies of the day's long past –– quickly adding a swift “On the ground...” she couldn't help winking at the instant she dredged up the memory of sweet, sweet victory: "Again."

Auteme produced a thing of personalized wonder, and Loske held the grinning Nautolon stitching in front of her for a moment of appreciation. Her expression mirrored perfectly the elatedness of the legendary Jedi Master Fisto.

“This is perfect Auteme, thank you.” Without further hesitation, she shimmied it over her head, pulling her hair through the collar and adjusting once it was over her shoulders.

Allyson joined them, and Loske grinned, reaching over to squeeze the spy on the bicep and offer a cheery: “Happy Life Day.”

Further fanfare was interrupted by the Chancellor taking the podium, and a respectful silence washing over the gathered spectators.

"And while all of our soldiers and Jedi fought valiantly on the dark plains of Korriban and the canopied jungles of Felucia, we would be remiss to not give special recognition to those who performed extraordinary feats of heroism."

"Maynard Treicolt... Loske Treicolt ... Captain Raith ... Ryv Karis...stand before me."

Heroism. The exploitation of their men would not have been rewarded with heroism if the capital hadn’t fallen to the 7th and 104th, and they hadn’t returned with Eldaah on the end of a stick. It was better not to overanalyze, or grow jaded. Her hand found Maynard’s and gave it a short squeeze.

She preferred the time where just Ryv and Maynard were called up in front of all these people. As much of a poster girl as she might have been, publicity made her nerves spike.

“You ready to be a hero of The Alliance again?” They were becoming heavy with the accolades the war had given them, as if medals and titles filled the empty spaces their friends and family had been. The gesture was considerate, and Loske couldn’t fault any nation for trying to recompense immeasurable loss at the choice of a soldier.

Just about to turn away from the collection gathered, there was pause from a familiar voice.

"Do you take requests? Do you have something like a Rancor wearing a Life Day hat or something? Because that would be amazing."

“Aaran!” No effort was made to veil her surprise. His face was one of calmer days, the Padawan Pack aboard Peace. “It’s a life day miracle.” She laughed, before taking a second to actualize her appreciation and loop her arms around the scruffy nerf-herder’s neck. A far more neglectful display of respecting physical distance preferences than Ryv had been. She pulled away quickly, reconnecting with Maynard. “You remember Maynard, too, right? Ah, We have to go,” she gestured vaguely toward the stage, her lips tight to trap further apology behind her teeth “––but it’s so great to see you again. I hope you don’t have to leave straight away, you probably have some great stories to share.”

She pointed firmly at her brunette friend. “Auteme, don’t let him leave.”

The wait for those called to the stage was threatening to border on awkward, and as much as she withdrew at the idea of that much attention, there was a requirement to serve beyond receiving a medal today. At the end of this, Zaavik and Ryv were going to have to receive an additional honour.

All while wearing their atrociously adorable hand-knit Life Day sweaters.

The crowds peeled away to let them through, clapping and praising all the way, and when they reached the base of the podium the honour guard stepped aside for the couple. “Chancellor Chandra,” Loske greeted with a head dip when the timing was appropriate.

 

[Auteme]

Aaran Tafo Loske Treicolt Zaavik Perl Marae Tavlar Dagon Kaze Okkeus Dainlei Allyson Locke ​

Auteme was far slower than Loske in her response to Aaran. Aaran. He was there, really there, for the first time in so long. Maybe she was just being nostalgic, or maybe she was still hopped up on that Life Day spirit. She accepted the small miracle nonetheless; as soon as Loske had let go, Auteme nearly tackled Aaran in a hug. To little effect, given their disparate sizes and weights.

For a brief moment she was sad -- as if she'd missed a chunk of his life. But when she pulled away she was nothing but a bright smile and holiday cheer. She might've missed a few things, but there was nothing quite like catching up with a friend. And they had much to catch up on.

"It's so good to see you!" She cast a glance at Loske and gave her a thumbs up. "Yeah, yeah. Aaran, you're staying here with me," she said, trying to get her arms all the way around him in a side hug. "We get to watch how cool Loske and Ryv are from back here."

It took her a moment to remember his earlier request, but as soon as she did she let go and reached under her sweater. From the bag hidden away under there she produced yet another holiday sweater -- just as Aaran had requested, the leathery face of a rancor was plastered on the front of the red wool sweater, ugly not only from her mediocre knitting skills this time. It had a nice Life Day cap and was right beside a small stack of cookies. Plastered in big green letters it said "Cookie Monster". She smiled as she looked at it one last time before handing it to Aaran. "Lucky guess. I made a whole bunch."

She hushed herself again and looked to the stage, where everyone had started to gather for some well-deserved awards.

 

[Aaran Tafo]

And similarly to Ryv, he did not shy away at the display of physical affection from his old friend. Instead he took the Ace's embrace with gusto. Arms wrapping around her in a tight hug. Lifting her into the air for a moment before placing her back down. "I figured if I was going to show up any day. It might as well be today." He joked, taking a step back from Loske, grining from ear to ear as he took a moment to get a proper look at his two old friends. Auteme and Loske both had grown so much in the time he was gone. Taken whatever the Galaxy could throw at them and came out of it on top.

"Go on. Claim your prize hero. I'm not going anywhere." He said, giving Maynard a respectful nod in greeting. Familiar with the other starfighter. They were never close friends, but certainly friendly acquaintances. His face was another welcome sight from such a long time spent alone with nothing more than a crazy witch for company. He figured being around old friends who were glad to see him during the holidays was a tad bit more preferable.

And when Auteme tackled him, the air was nearly knocked out of his lungs. Letting out a bark of laughter. Taking the impact, before holding the much smaller girl in his own embrace. "I missed you guys." He murmured, his voice soft enough for only Auteme to hear, before he was released from her grasp. In the brief respite he had from the tiny Jedi's grip. He took a moment to survey those gathered around him.

So many unfamiliar faces. So many people packed into one place. It was a bit of a shock for someone who was basically a hermit up until a few weeks ago. He did his best to filter away the noise. Instead trying to instead focus on his friend beside him, and those heading on-stage.

He let out a laugh of delight at the sight of the sweater presented to him. Crude, bright and adorable. Just what he needed. Slipping off his jacket, he eagerly threw it over his head. Doing a small shimmy to fit it over his frame. Taking a moment to admire it before slipping his jacket back on, leaving it unzipped so all present could witness the glorious display of festive delight that was now plastered on his chest.

"I love it. Thank you." He said, arm likewise wrapped around Auteme in a side hug. Genuine cheer pouring from him like a wave. Eyes drifting back towards the stage. And for a moment, a flicker of sadness appeared in his eyes.

"Sorry for not being here for that." He said, tone clearly stating that he was referring to Korriban. "But I'll be here for the next. And every one after that."


Auteme
Loske Treicolt
Ryv

 

[IVI]

LIFE DAY | CORUSCANT | SIA HEADQUARTERS
Allyson Locke | Kree
2 WICKY

Outside, the snow fell softly to the streets, carelessly stomped underfoot by merrymakers plenty.
It was a soundless sort of precipitation that she’d seen a few times, always blanketing the world it touched in silence –– alas, no such favour was found in the Coruscanti walkways this day. Not with such celebration to be had and all the noise that came with it. Thankfully, the streams incoming from REC’s robocops was soundless as they projected on the handful of screens behind her. Wordless sentients exchanging festivity and cheer in Coruscant’s streets, largely undeterred by the robotic presence of the reinforced security force.

In her office, M was privy to most moments unseen to the wider crowd. A godlike view of everything that took place within her jurisdiction. And god was a woman with an ever-expanding jurisdiction. The further the Alliance spread, so did her influence. A subtle influence, of course –– no more than a concealed watcher from the shadows as it should be. The same modus operandi she’d employed to watch her predecessor fall. Watched and orchestrated.

Lazily, she twirled the long end of a spoon around in a cup of perfectly brewed caf. It’s contents swirled aimlessly, mixing in the cloud of blue milk and murking up the original dark unadulterated hue. She lay the spoon to rest and flipped to the next screen, where a new thread of information glowed to life, and she typed in a response to an ongoing conversation with Otto Shule to extend the contract to the Senate Guard. The conversation was in preliminary stages, but with the recent alleged assassination of @Ido (despite his failure to be re-elected), her case for surveillance was undeniably strengthening.

Hum. The woman blew a short breath out, a loose black strand lifting from her nose back from whence it came. Absently, she touched at the phantom sensation where the hair had been while flicking through several files. All glowing with varied urgencies. In the corner of her office, a series of notifications rolled through her screen. A few notifications made their way to her chrono, though did not look up from her reading until the entire file had been scoured.

Finally, she tilted her wrist to check the subject lines of each message. They were largely uninteresting –- a series of notes from a former lover wanting to spend life day together. She should have blocked his number long ago, but something about those well-timed pleas for attention brought the heat back to her bones. Nevertheless, she dismissed the nonsensical requests with nothing more than ignoring each message as they came in and an under-the-breath “Vuscolin't.”

An indicative beep pulled her attention from the latest surveillance recordings around Senator Ido’s apartment. In the corner of her office, the decryption from the Crypto-Analysis Division (Crypto) of Felucia’s download had finished rendering.

Humm. She peered at the beautified syntax, scrolling through the intersections of information as it was delivered. The data stream was mostly useless coordination between soldiers from that day, and a few larger bandwidth broadcasts. She’d already been aware of those and brushed them aside. Finding much of the information fruitless, she was beginning to become quite frustrated with the results the Ghost Vipers had pulled when a lateral connection outsourced to a frequency all the way to Korriban.

Her brows knit, peering at the connection and run the decryption focused solely on that pipeline one more time. It had to be to a personal terminal. There was no way public encryption could be that focused. With a few gestures of slender fingers, the decrypted line lit. Behind her, a targeting array highlighted the individual who’d received the transmission from the Sith now in the Alliance’s custody. The highlighted square around the figure pulsated as another stepped into the proximity. The Intelligence sequence did it’s best to run a correlation with the database, but turned out with nothing but questionable information.

“Hm.” M murmured, stiffening. The lack of recognition in the system meant the individual was not a civilian. And any registered identification in allied databases was accessible to her terminal; the void of identity was concerning. And served to only deepen her suspicion.

The transponder on her wrist activated with a gentle tap. <Commissioner,> She waited for him to confirm the receipt of the incoming message: <I’m dispatching coordinates your way. I'd like Agent Locke brought in.. it’s time we have a word.

The girl with her, bring them in as well if you can. Separately. Immediately.> She paused. <Don’t make it a scene..she’s still our agent, and everyone is still enjoying the spirit of the evening. Respect the ceremony.>

Continuing to watch the display, she watched as the unidentified red-head avoid an interaction ( Darth Daiara ) with another member of the New Jedi Order. A member with Starbird level clearance, no less, much like Allyson. The pair were master and student –– another question M had for Jedi Master Locke.

<Or perhaps we can have Knight Dagoth bring her in. I'll leave that to you to figure.>

 

[Kree]

Life Day | Coruscant | The Jedi Temple
Allyson Locke | IVI
I Caught Crazy!

​

How does one transcend a reality born of their greatest failure? When every waking moment is filled with a silent loathing for the state of your existence, there is no escape. It began in simpler ways, didn't it? Like when you failed to recognize the face staring back at you in the mirror. Once delicious meals tasted of ash in your mouth. You no longer find it within yourself to crawl out of bed before noon. Whatever semblance of a schedule your life once followed fallen away. Night becomes the norm. You welcome the moon's faint reflections as the only guiding light through the shadow clutching tight to your mind—a numbness set in. That desire to fight back grew distant. You accept the sickness laying claim to your soul. The darkness you once feared becomes comfortable, the only place you feel safe, hidden away from the world you've made for yourself.

It started as a sickness. Before you knew it, it became you. You are the plague—the disease eating at the galaxy. You think yourself better than the darkness. Perhaps you believe yourself the light meant to face the baleful and insidious. I assure you, you are no such thing. I hunger to taste of your fear, to drink deep in your despair when you realize how far you have fallen. I would not think to end you, no, that would be premature. Your suffering shall fuel me, Allyson Locke. In your fall, I will know only the greatest of pleasures. For you and I are the same. You just haven't realized it yet.

​

"May I take your coat, sir?"

Kree shifted his attention from the throng of bodies awaiting entry to the Jedi Temple to a Youngling at his side. The boy was no older than ten. He stared up at the pale-skinned umbaran with wide eyes and a broad smile that would put even the Negotiator to shame. If not for the crowd, or the close proximity to so many force-attuned, the Director may have allowed himself a moment of fun. One so young could provide ample entertainment if forced to endure the darker side of human nature. If only the Beacons of Hope did not burn so bright, Kree would bring ruin to the innocent soul latched on to the hem of his sleeve.

"No," the Director ripped his arm away from the child. "I would not have your grubby little mitts touching something so expensive. Go bother someone else."

Nearby, people looked on in a mixture of horror or frustration. Kree could feel their hate-filled eyes as they bore into the back of his skull. He thought nothing of it, for such simplicities were meant for the common rabble.

Stepping into the temple proper, the Director pushed through the crowd, moving to the stage nestled between two grand sets of stairs. Already, the Chancellor had taken to the podium and ushered others forward. Both Loske and Maynard Treicolt broke away from a group of Jedi, approaching the stage hand-in-hand. Kree's lips curled back in disgust. How two stupid people could find joy in each other's company baffled him. It would do one of them some much-needed good to free themselves of the unnecessary weight. Maynard meant something to the Alliance. His wife meant nothing, just another filthy clone left to its own. It should've been chained up somewhere, out of sight. It was no better than property. Meant to be used until finished, discarded with the rest of the trash.

And, of course, a ceremony like this could not be complete without the Sword of the Jedi himself. Ryv Karis wasn't far behind his two faithful companions. Would it kill the gutter rat to throw on something other than his worthless father's old leather jacket? How the Alliance could look at such a stupid kid and put any faith in him was beyond Kree. If only they knew the truth. Where the pompous bastard came from, all his wrongdoings, the sins, though lost, not forgotten. Soon.

<Commissioner.>

A voice chimed through the commlink hooked around his ear. He paused, smiling faintly as memories of a beautiful, if not elusive, chiss surfaced.

<To what do I owe the pleasure, M? Have you finally reconsidered my offer for dinner? I know a magnificent location not far from here,> Kree launched into his typical pitch to the SIA's Director. Something about her smooth, blue complexion and demeaning crimson gaze lit a fire within his heart. Lust might've been the best descriptor, but even the umbaran knew it ran deeper than that. He yearned to peel back her uniform, to taste of her flesh, hear her breathing hitch as he explored the length of her body. He would make her last night alive memorable before sending her spiraling into the abyss. The fires of the nether would make an eternity without her skin far more comfortable.

<I’m dispatching coordinates your way. I'd like Agent Locke brought in... it’s time we have a word. The girl with her, bring them in as well if you can. Separately. Immediately. Don’t make it a scene..she’s still our agent, and everyone is still enjoying the spirit of the evening. Respect the ceremony. Or perhaps we can have Knight Dagoth bring her in. I'll leave that to you to figure.>

Kree searched the room for the two in question. When he spotted the pair, he reactivated his commlink. <I have eyes on your agent. So long as she plays nice, I won't make a mess of things.>

Before the Director could make his way to the pair, it appeared they split up. Allyson to her pack of Jedi freaks, and the redhead somewhere in the direction of the exit. It was somewhat surprising to see Zaavik break away from the crowd and give chase. That surprise gave way to sheer glee. Not unlike his master, the boy teetered on the edge of disaster. If the Corellian did not make a worthwhile prize, he would make something of her brat instead.

Absolutely delicious.

Not one to waste time, Kree stepped up to the group and cleared his throat.

"Locke," he paused, a smile crawling across his pale visage. "M seeks recognition. Do come with me."

 

[Allyson Locke]

//: But I'll keep lying to myself //:
//: IVI //: Kree //:

​

Allyson took the sweater and shoved it over her head, the antlers getting bent in the process, and when the Corellian's head popped out - they looked like sad droopy ears. Still, Allyson was overwhelmed with joy to be included in this occasion. From the corner of her eye, she noticed Zaavik head off Aradia. Her hands moved along the fabric antlers as she straightened them out, as concern appeared on her face. Zaavik was good at sniffing out the suspect, and while she wanted to chase the pair down, she needed to let Zaavik work. ​

​

He had grown and was fully capable of handling Aradia. Exhaling, she tried to calm herself down; finding the ability to trust was hard - but Zaavik, if anyone, he was the person she trusted. A smile continued to spread across her face as she watched everyone around her. For once, the Corellian felt a part of something - not alone. Maybe she could fix this; perhaps they could accept her again one day. As she looked around, she caught Loske's smile and returned it. The smile hurt, Allyson used muscles she hadn't used in some time, but while it hurt, it was something she could get used to. ​

​

Sadly, the brief glimpse into the façade of happiness she felt was shattered by a cold voice. Allyson turned to face the source of the voice. It took her a few moments as she blinked, her eyes scanned the face, then looked towards Ryv and then blinked again. A faint glow in the corner of her iris would show the activation of her contact lens. The tech memorized the face for just a moment, and then the faint glow would dissipate as quickly as she blinked. "Of course she does; I doubt this has anything to do with my Life Day bonus." A weak smile spread across the Corellian's face as she took off the festive antlers. ​

​

"I appreciate the request, but you know as much as I do - no one tells M no." Her voice was hushed while she took one last look at the Jedi gathering. No matter how hard she tried, she always remained at arm's length. The one thing she desired would never be held by her blood stained hands, and she was starting to accept it. "Let's go." Allyson turned her back on the group as she felt herself fading back into the shadows, where she belonged. ​

​

The Corellian waited till they were out of the others' sight, and she quickly removed the holiday sweater. The vacation was over, and she was walking back into the belly of the beast. ​

​

"Any idea what she wants?" Allyson knew that it was a long shot that the man knew; only M knew what M wanted.​

And M knew everything.​

 

[Adhira Chandra]

The old woman watched solemnly as the three individuals she summoned stepped forward. Her warm smile curled the corners of her lips and she nodded at one of the honor guards holding the ornate box. The guard opened the box and revealed three medals. Each medallion was unique, but they all glimmered in the bright lights that illuminated the dais. She carefully took the first one on the left, holding it gingerly like it was a fragile and sacred thing. "To Loske Treicolt," she began, descending the steps and closing the distance between her and the honorees, "I bestow the Galactic Alliance Medal of Freedom."​

​

She briefly held the decoration aloft. At first glance, it was a simple circular coin made of gold, but upon closer inspection, any student of history would recognize the design as an ancient honor bestowed upon those who fought for the Rebel Alliance during the days of the Palpatine Empire. Grasping the ribbon and allowing the medallion to sway freely, she carefully lowered the Medal of Freedom over Loske's head. Adhira adjusted the ribbon to make sure it was hanging properly and then squeezed Loske's shoulders tightly. "This medal was once worn by our forebears who helped free the Core and the Galaxy from the oppression of the Empire... As such, we have reinstituted this ancient order and recommissioned it as the Medal of Freedom, given to those who have striven to advance the ideals of the Alliance," the honor guard appeared at her side with the box and she stepped back from Loske, "and brought freedom to the oppressed. Wear it with pride."​

​

Her dark eyes shifted to Captain Raith and she stepped over to him, the box of medals nearby. With the same reverence, she lifted one of the medals out of the velvet cushion they were resting upon and held it aloft. This medallion was fashioned after the symbol of the Alliance, in pure gold with diamonds set where the stars should be. "To Tycho Dune, I bestow the Golden Starbird," she lowered the ribbon around his neck and adjusted it briefly in the same fashion she had Loske's, "named for our own insignia, this distinction is bestowed on those who have performed great feats of heroism in defense of the ideals we hold dear. It is my honor to award this medal to you. Go forth with distinction and keep in your heart the values we hold dear."​

​

Once more she sidestepped, guard in tow, to find herself standing directly in front of Ryv Karris. She forced air out through her nose, but her face was a frozen smile. She gently lifted the final medal from its container. It was a glittering star that seemed lighter in color than the other medals and had a ribbon of blue and green. "And to you, Master Jedi," she smirked, remembering their last conversation, "there was only one distinction that felt appropriate to bestow upon you. It has only been awarded a handful of times to Jedi who have placed themselves in the path of great evil to defend the galaxy from ruin. Thus, I award you the Order of Skywalker."​

​

"May you be the example to which all Jedi aspire," she lowered the medallion over his neck and stepped back, motioning to dismiss them. As they cleared the open space before her, Adhira motioned for another guard to step forward. He held a much smaller box in his hand, but it was no less ornate. He opened it and she turned to the crowd. "And finally, while most of our forces were engaged in battle with the Sith Empire, there was those who risked their lives to defend one of our own planets, Byss, which found itself under attack by the Eternal Empire."​

​

"Will Takui please come forward!"​

​

Takui Ryv Captain Raith Loske Treicolt Dracken Pryce Ishana Chandra

​

 

[Auteme]

Aaran Tafo | Sweater Gang​

"I missed you too." She was sure Aaran had gone on his own journeys, found his own path. But now he was back, and Auteme wasn't one to turn away a friend. She didn't forget all those days spent on Peace either.

She hugged back, their sweaters now creating a little bit of static between them. She didn't mind. "Don't apologize," she said. It was almost a command. "We've all got our journeys. Just because you missed a dangerous battle doesn't make me want to toss you in the next one. Take your time. And when you're ready, we'll be right there with you."

Her eyes stayed on the stage. Loske, Ryv, now Takui -- there was no shortage of heroes among the New Jedi Order it seemed. She grinned, smoothing over the pang of sadness she sensed in Aaran. "Or are you jealous? That medal looks pretty cool, so I wouldn't blame you. Just don't do anything stupid while trying to get one."