Sound the Drums of War [CIS Dominion of Hex Y-40]

[Paragon of Virtue]

. : 36 Hours Prior to Exodus Crash : .​

War was once again upon them. It appeared that with the turn of the season, the months of relative peace that the Confederacy of Independent Systems had enjoyed were officially at an end. It had begun with their invasion of Copero, where they had, as promised, not suffered a new Empire to live. The attack had been successful. So successful in fact that it caused the blight of a nation to retreat to hiding in a dark corner of the galaxy. Now, the wheel of war had spun, and it seemed that the turn had fallen to the Mandalorians. For years, the Confederacy had been willing to co-exist, but with the perceived crimes of the Mandalorian Empire against Eshan, the homeworld of the Echani, co-existence had ceased to be an option.

Everything was ready for the upcoming clash that was required for the Echani people; ships were fueled, missiles were ready to be launched, and medical ships were ready to aid any of the planet's locals who had been injured or were otherwise in need of refuge. Their goals were lofty, it was true, but their people were ready. If they could handle the Jen’ari it was a safe assumption that they would be able to hold their own against the Clans of Mandalore.

36 hours from now, they would all be sharp, focused, and ready to take vengeance.

Only one thing remained.

Now, before the battle, the CIS would gather at the behest of the Vicelord in the memory of all those that had been lost. It did not matter how many had died. One hundred, a thousand — it simply mattered that they had. Instead of holding a mass funeral ceremony, without bodies to bury, or ashes to spread they would hold a Celebration of Life. This type of memorial service is not a somber affair. Instead, the Confederacy and the Echani refugees that were healthy enough to return home would be offered some small modicum of comfort in an unfamiliar expression of grief.

They would tell stories. Share libations. Find a way to smile. Laugh — even if it was only on the inside. Perhaps, they would even find themselves watching small wordless Fire Dancing displays (Ceremonial Echani Combat Theater). The focus will not remain on the senseless death that had occurred at the hands of the Clans of Mandalore but on the joy that the individuals lost had brought to others. It would be a display of culture to prepare the CIS for the trip to Eshan. A piece of the world they would soon be aiding to return to a sovereign state. For those empathetic enough to feel, it will illustrate, why the Echani are worth fighting for.

But, above all else, the nation and their guests would celebrate in anticipation of a bright future, in which any, and all, can feel safe and prosperous. Everyone involved deserves a reminder that they all have a right to look forward so that they may live as they see fit, free of corruption, free of faulty crusades, free of orbital bombardment, and free of any entity that sought to take those privileges away.

That Celebration of Life would take place right here; and moments from now, the ribbon would be cut, and a new space station by the Mara Corridor would be officially open for voyagers in need. The space station will be christened in memoriam for warriors all throughout the galaxy that had met their ends too soon. The name of the station, “Enyalien”, loosely translates to “Remember”. With that in mind… We will never forget. From this point onward those who seek to travel these parts of the galaxy quicker will have a place to safely pause, rest, and trade, right at the edge of the Confederate space.

Everyone is encouraged to take a moment to themselves. Find your demons, your pain, and relish in introspection so that those negativities may be let go. Find the time to set worry aside. To find focus and courage. Get to know your fellow warriors. Eat, drink, and remember what this fight is for.

Celebrate. Because in 36 Galactic Standard Hours?

Blood will have blood.​

At the entrance to the space station, “Enyalien”, a big beautiful purple ribbon has been tied. The space station has been in the works for quite some time, and only now, have we had the chance to open it fully to the public. Many are grateful for its existence as it offers a waypoint in parts of space that can occasionally feel rather bleak. Come and view the cutting ceremony as [member="Lace Vi'dreya"] officially declares the station ready for use.

While it might seem like a good old fashioned Confederate gathering there is a deeper meaning beyond this final resting place. That doesn’t mean that [member="Darth Metus"] won’t be covering all the liquor, food, and entertainment costs — it just means that there is more to the excursion to the space station than meets the eye. It is a stepping stone for the second venture that the CIS has made outside of their sphere. To date—It is the furthest the Confederacy has ever traveled.

This location will also provide the CIS with a foothold to maintain the edge of their borders. With the successful launch of the space station — many goals will be achieved at the same time.

Spoiler: Notable Features

First Floor

• North Lounge - Storytelling [A Hall of Remembrance: In which Echani refugees from Monastery will present the happiest memories of their home. They will share their culture and perspectives as well as they are able. They compartmentalize rather well but very few are above the loss of a child, friend, or family member. This is a place that ought to be respected. There are plenty of snacks, drinks, and comfortable places to sit and listen.]
• South Lounge - Entertainment [A Hall of Joy: There will be singing, dancing, and even the occasional display of traditional Fire Dancing from some of the Echani that were returning from Monastery. It is a display of artful combat, without words, that tells a story with little more than body movement. The music will vary to different tastes, moving from techno beats to updated classical pieces. There will also be plenty to eat and drink.]
• East Lounge - Meditation [A Hall of Quiet: A place for respite, among peers, to gather one's thoughts as needed. No matter how many times war comes there is always a certain amount of danger attached to it. There is comfortable seating, low tables, low lights, and soft, steady music that can just barely be heard in the background. The noise from the Entertainment Hall will not filter through.]
• West Lounge - War [A Hall of Battle: Not ready for the fight? Looking for battle plans? Information on Eshan itself? Do you need to requisition more gear? Ships? This is the place to do it. If you want to get to know your fellow warriors and ask about their tactics and intentions...This is the place.]

Second Floor

• Northern Half - Sleep [A Place to Rest: Enough resting quarters to make some relief centers do a double take. If your character has been planning till they’re blue in the face? Let them take a load off. Let them sleep. Let them rest. They deserve it.]
• Southern Left Half - Cafeteria [A Place to Refuel: Food. Real food. Not the snacks and liquor offered on the 1st Floor. Eat well in the days leading up to a tough battle and your body will thank you for it. There are all sorts of dishes available, made to order.]
• Southern Right Half - Fitness & Wellness Center [A Place to Remain Strong: Feeling strange? Get a physical before going into a fight. Don’t be afraid. Medical droids won’t hurt you. Much. There is exercise equipment, usually, for travelers but in this case, we’re also welcome to make use of it. There is a steam room and a rather large pool.]

Do your thing. This is, at heart, a social dominion to provide a much-needed bridge between the Exodus of Eshan and the Invasion itself. This should be laid back. For those of you that haven’t written too much together before? This is a good chance to reach out and shake hands.

Spoiler: CIS Tag List

[member="A'Runda"]
[member="Akabane"]
[member="Alden Akaran"]
[member="Alora Fae"]
[member="Alwine Lechner"]
[member="Amarant deWinter"]
[member="Amaya Cardei"]
[member="Amelia von Sorenn"]
[member="Amethyst Atreides"]
[member="Amethyst Sovereign"]
[member="Anya Malvern"]
[member="Arabella Darkhold"]
[member="Archim Calixis"]
[member="Ari Zanareth"]
[member="Arlox"]
[member="Aston Jacobs"]
[member="Aya Clarke"]
[member="Azmodan"]
[member="Betty Americus"]
[member="Braan Kell"]
[member="Bandit Six"]
[member="Caesar Kenway"]
[member="Callisa Asran"]
[member="Cardinal Vi'dreya"]
[member="Carith Thelcar"]
[member="Chikako Liona"]
[member="Cim Salro"]
[member="Corvus Dravere"]
[member="Daisy Americus"]
[member="Damsy Callat"]
[member="Danger Arceneau"]
[member="Daniel Americus"]
[member="Dalton Kenway"]
[member="Darth Tacitus"]
[member="Darth Timorem"]
[member="Darth Novus"]
[member="Daxton Bane"]
[member="Dhakarta"]
[member="Dianah Vi'Dreya"]
[member="Drauchir"]
[member="Ecthelion Aiglos"]
[member="Efried Halbrecht"]
[member="Ella Nova"]
[member="Erin Tenel"]
[member="Fawn Alzi"]
[member="Gerwald Lechner"]
[member="Gray Venasir"]
[member="Hajrah Marjanah"]
[member="Isarn Apis"]
[member="Ithiel Vi'Dreya"]
[member="Jade Isara"]
[member="Jayce Pryde"]
[member="Jennifer Blanchard"]
[member="Jorco Czeku"]
[member="Jorge"]
[member="Josh DragonsFlame"]
[member="Jyoti Nooran"]
[member="Kalee Bladesworn"]
[member="Kaptan Americus"]
[member="Karlie Lynn Destat"]
[member="Kasca Fen"]
[member="Katrine Van-Derveld"]
[member="Kayla Wylen"]
[member="Kingsley"]
[member="Kip Ridel"]
[member="Kurayami Bloodborn"]
[member="Kurenai Yumi"]
[member="Kwelin Orlov"]
[member="Kyber"]
[member="Kyrinov"]
[member="Lefwen Claskier"]
[member="Lirka Ka"]
[member="Luna Terrik"]
[member="Luna Vega"]
[member="Lyla Quinn"]
[member="Mallory Bash"]
[member="Maple Harte"]
[member="Marek Starchaser"]
[member="Mauer"]
[member="Minerva Vessia"]
[member="Muad Dib"]
[member="Nine Lives"]
[member="Orion Trex"]
[member="Osintrium"]
[member="Petra Cavataio"]
[member="Qaarssk Roark"]
[member="Razelle Breuner"]
[member="Roy Americus"]
[member="Rylan Kordel"]
[member="Samantha Jade"]
[member="Scherezade deWinter"]
[member="Shalita Vi'dreya"]
[member="Sola Marr"]
[member="Sor-Jan Xantha"]
[member="Srina Talon"]
[member="Taramaz Laurs"]
[member="Tex Americus"]
[member="Teyla Ee'everwest"]
[member="Thalira Kiing"]
[member="Tmoxin Temi"]
[member="Traveler"]
[member="Treiades Rhoujen"]
[member="Varick Lechner"]
[member="Veronika Fleischer"]
[member="VildarnTentoria"]
[member="Voph"]
[member="Vyra Silara"]
[member="Xenro"]
[member="Zhai'ellev"]

 

[Scherezade deWinter]

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Location: First Floor, South Lounge​

Wearing: Dress​

Tags: Anyone welcome to join​

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Fire Dancing, combat, dancing, and eating. That was what the brochure had promised. Or at least would have promised, if she'd ever received one. But being connected to pretty much people on various ranks across various ladders, Madalena had known this was coming. Well, not the war, that was relatively new since they'd had no way of knowing they'd be needed, but the ribbon ceremony was planned sufficiently long in advance for her to pout repeatedly about not having the time to buy herself a new dress for the occasion.

In truth, she knew very little about the Echani. It was one thing to be able to scent them through the Force thanks to her Blood Hound abilities, but insofar as culture and history went? Madalena knew nothing. And still, the chance to come see people dance without too many layers of clothing and potentially jump right in and join them had appealed to her. As had the idea of someone else paying for the food and drink.

Her mind was not focused on the war zone that she would enter not too many hours from now. War was war. Death was death. She had given her loyalty to the Confederacy and they in turn got the right to point her and her blades where they were needed, and now they were needed on Eshan. Besides, the chance to kill Mandalorians was always something that brought a huge smile to those pouty lips of hers. You didn't need an excuse when you had one you were practically raised on – Mandalorians bad, kill them all.

So in a day and a half, she would slaughter tuna cans.

But now, today; she wanted to party and have fun.

 

[Lirka Ka]

Galaxy loved to just spit in your face whenever it got the opportunity, a full force assault to go kill some Mandalorians? That would’ve been wonderful (of course the fact of “restraint” had been such a soul crushing thing to learn), but the Galaxy hated fun; loose ends had shown up leaving the Sephi berserker all but unable to actually shown for the slaughter on Eshan.

[SIZE=11pt]And to no one’s surprise that utterly infuriated the woman, who already had become “famed” for a remarkably short fuse to begin with. Why she was actually here was far beyond her, but regardless it seemed it was time for another gathering: or something vaguely resembling one.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]Choosing some semblance of isolation Lirka had decided to head off to the fitness center on the second floor, the brick of muscle some people called a Sephi had decided aggressively working out would maybe calm her nerves. Maybe. Hopefully. Hopefully for those in her vicinity. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]Finding herself some little corner where the soldiers (or sad excuses for soldiers) prepared for illness and beyond of what they’d encounter on Eshan. Lirka had moved off away from the main medical center, angrily the woman did her push-ups (and for once in her life wasn’t wearing a full suit of battle armor); her organic arm behind her back while her cybernetic effortlessly had her push through the movement again and again. It wasn’t helping much,[/SIZE]

 

[KitKat]

Bring Your Own Objective - Returning to the Fold (Location: Table 39)

It was weird to celebrate before going to war, or at least Bandit thought so. He couldn't help wondering which one of these guests he might not ever see again. Maybe all of them? The squat little creature made his way to the bar. He hadn't been seen in CIS space for a while. He owed the CIS everything, for they had set him free of the research facility where he had been imprisoned and experimented on, but like any indebted son Bandit had needed a break. He'd gone on his own and made some money, saw a bit of the galaxy, but he couldn't ignore the titans clashing around him. The galaxy wasn't truly free, and if it ever would be it would come at a price.

He signed and sat at a small table, sipping his drink and scratching his fury face. War was hell.

 

[Alwine Daye]

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Location: Enyalien entrance​

Wearing: Dress​

Tags: Free free to join​

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Enyalien. What a beautiful name. And it was given to a place such as this; there was little Alwine could do but nod in approval. She would have most likely operated in the same manner, all things considered. Standing by the corner, her petite bare shoulder leaning against the wall as she looked at the technicians setting the last parts of the ceremony into place. She knew that one of the Vicelord's children would be the one who would cut the ribbon shortly, but that was not where her focus was.

A space station by a main trade route. For all the things the young Lupine had done during her time with the Confederacy, it was the first time she felt progress in such a tangible fashion. Most of the time, her duty with the Knights Obsidian had her killing enemies in distant parts of the galaxy, or otherwise attend party after party with no end in sight. But this… This felt different to her.

And somewhere inside of her, Alwine Lechner found that this little deed, this highway station that the Confederacy was opening, and giving it a name in the memory of those who had been lost and would receive help in a day and a half, that was the first time she felt a semblance of true pride in the Confederacy. After so many months being there simply because she wanted to remain close to her brothers, simply because this was where Gerwald was, now she felt as though there was a reason for her, a reason for her to be there. Something that was truly her own, and not merely gifted to her.

Crossing her arms across her chest, the petite blonde watched on, excited for the ceremony to begin, the expression on her seemingly delicate features seeming almost… Happy, and not the stone cold façade she always wore.

Soon enough, the rest of the Confederacy would go off to war.

For now though, they would celebrate progression.

 

[ToKola Bakari]

Location: First Floor, South Lounge
Objective: He has no clue
Tags: [member="Scherezade deWinter"]

Normally Cardinal would skip the social functions, finding his time could be placed elsewhere, anywhere else. However with all the preparations completed there had been nothing else more important to occupy the man's time. Besides, when [member="Scherezade deWinter"] asked if he'd be in attendance, he decided perhaps there was a reason to go after all. The large man had been towering over a buffet table, collecting a small plate of things that looked good. Mostly meat and fruit, he may have piled it up a bit high but he came with a generous appetite.

Cardinal was not one to dress up. He'd already hated wearing his Master Strike Armor and that was most likely the most formal thing he had. So today he wore a simple black V-neck shirt with a pair of dark jeans and black boots. It was as close as he was getting to dressing up and certainly as fashionable as he could hope for. When he turned to find Madalena standing nearby he could not help but compare the two. The Sith woman had always chosen elegant and beautiful dresses where Cardinal believed jeans to be the greatest choice of “formal” clothing. The same man who'd prefer to be mostly in the nude all the time, more akin to how things were in his youngest years.

He strode over to Madalena, until he stood right behind her. He placed a hand on her bare shoulder while his arm swung around to hold his plate out to her in a silent offering. “Hungry?” He asked before smiling down at the woman. He'd soak in her form, taking notice of each curve that was complemented by the dress she wore. His eyes lingered for a moment but they quickly turned to meet her own, their crimson hue soft in the evening's light.

“You look….” He trailed off before smiling, trying to decide on a word before holding the plate out “You look good.” He said finally, not sounding as nice as his mind had made it sound, yet he stood his ground. “You always look good…I would have dressed up but…” His words trailed off into a mutter. “Clothes are karking stupid.”

 

[Kiff Brayde]

LOCATION: Fitness Center, Second Floor
WEARING: Confederate Dress Uniform
TAGS: [member="Lirka Ka"]

If there was anything to be said about Captain Kiff Brayde, one thing was for certain; parties were definitely his style. Even one as somber as this, with the fancy word for 'Remember' chosen as the stations namesake and a subdued mood of memorializing the ones they had already lost before the campaign against the Mandalorian Empire, but for Kiff it was all just one big party, and there was no better cause to celebrate than the eve before they got to bash some bucket-heads.

Nevertheless, as self-proclaimed party master it was Kiff's job (at least, in his mind) to make sure others were having an equally splendid time, which made the fitness center his first destination to see if there were any slackers actually trying to prepare for the upcoming war. To his surprise, there wasn't too many people, just a couple of Duros off in the corner checking out the weights and a Sephi in some sort of power armor doing push-ups on the floor -- not your usual Confederacy gathering, but Kiff had seen weirder. He stopped his walking behind the Sephi and gave a polite cough before moving his hands behind his back.

 

[Scherezade deWinter]

​

Location: First Floor, South Lounge​

Wearing: Dress​

Tags: [member="Cardinal Vi'dreya"] | +Anyone welcome to join​

​

She had been watching the dancers, her eyes big and glowing as she took in notes of how they moved. Everywhere was a place for Madalena to learn how to improve herself and be a better fighter, but this… This spoke to something inside her. When the Sithling fought, it was as though her body was singing, and not just in the metaphorical sense of it. And while she did not know if the Echani Fire Dancers' bodies were singing as well, she knew they were responding to the choreography as though they were. It was a sight to behold, and she could hear the drums inside her veins, almost caling her to join them, to get her own set of heated ritual bands and just attack.

The desire was struck down when she heard a familiar voice. Turning around, registering that he had asked about her appetite only moments later, Madalena's mouth curled into a delicious smile, lighting her entire face up. "Cardinal," she greeted him, the name now coming so naturally to her lips as though she had always called him that, as though he was not her superior within the Knights Obsidian. But this was a party after all, wasn't it? This was meant to be casual, despite her choice of attire.

She almost rose to her toes to give the man a kiss on the cheek, when she noticed the look he was giving her body in that dress. The Sithling had no shame regarding her form; she had a mirror and knew what she looked like, and she deliberately chose clothing items that would enhance the effect it had on most of the into-human-population, male and female alike. And still, when she caught his gaze, she twirled around in her spot to show her body the dress off, making sure to stick one certain body part out for the very briefest of moments.

"Thank you," she beamed at him, "you look great in jeans as well," she grinned, and motioned with her finger in a swirly manner to suggest he did the same as she had and showed off. The jeans looked like they sit right in all the right places.

Gingerly, Madalena carefully plucked a pair of cherries from Cardinal's pile of food, and put them in her mouth. Her tongue swiveled, and moments later she removed the cherries, still intact, round, full, and shiny, and knotted with each other. "I'm positively starving."

 

[ToKola Bakari]

Location: First Floor, South Lounge
Objective: He has no clue
Tags: [member="Scherezade deWinter"]

The moment Cardinal saw Madalena's beaming face his own expression turned to a happy smile. There was something about how the woman was always so pleased to see him that made him sure he'd want to see that face again. His name on her lips was welcomed, yet there was the slightest part of him, deeper than he knew his mind went that wished to hear her call him another name, his true name. The thought was far removed from the surface of his thoughts so even he paid it no attention. His attention had been stolen, focused on the spin that she gave, showing off what he had been so obviously admiring. He said nothing and merely watched as his smile remained, yet in the same time turned to something else entirely.

Sunburnt eyes stole another gaze here and there as she suggest he show himself off in a similar fashion. He did not. He merely chuckled at her words before shaking his head. There was nothing about the Sandalian that made him want to turn for the woman to eye him, though he enjoyed her eyes upon him whether he told the truth of it or not. Whether the truth was even known to him or not. When Madalena took two cherries from his plate the man smiled down at her, allowing his eyes to roam the room for a moment. He said nothing when she removed the cherries from her mouth, knotted together. He plucked one from her before tossing it into his own mouth, biting into it and savoring the explosion of flavor.

"Good thing I brought extra." He said, holding the plate up. He set the plate down on a table beside them before gesturing over to the combat display that was occurring nearby. He eyed Madalena before taking her hand and leading her towards the combat. "Beautiful, isn't it?" He asked, before marveling at the two warriors. It was one thing to be a soldier, where war and combat was a duty or task. As a warrior you understood something that only a select class ever could, war was art. It painted pictures of pain and emotion in ways that words never could. Cardinal had a minor fascination with the Echani and had no qualms in the coming battle to free them, in some ways they were like his own people. A distaste for armor, a knack for hand to hand combat, perhaps the only true difference was the pigmentation of their skin and hue of their eyes. That was what Cardinal believed, at least, however there was far more to the people of Eshan than that.

"We used to light a fire in the center of the village, a big one. Old Wabara would tell stories about battles while the youngest of us would duel until the moon reached it's highest point." Cardinal smiled at his words but quickly the smile faded and he turned back to Madalena. He'd often felt a mixture of guilt and uncertainty when his past came up. On one hand he realized his people had been merciless and savage, he had been savage. On the other hand they had experienced life in a different way and that mark was not quick to leave. A connecting gaze with Madalena rekindled the flames of his smile before he spoke once again. "Have you ever been to Eshan or any of their planets?" He inquired.

"I know that Exarch Talon is from the world, but I've never met many Echani. Mostly heard stories about them from some of the Knight's."

 

[ToKola Bakari]

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Location: First Floor, West Lounge | Objective: Get a weapon | Tags: {Join me!}​

​

Lucien had only been with The Confederacy for a matter of weeks and already he'd had his fill of the bullchit. He stood in the West Lounge, dark eyes locked on a requisitioning droid that had been giving him the run around for the past ten minutes. In reality the Knight should have known it would not be so easy for him to waltz into an active military and see his needs met, never the less he wanted them karking met.

"I just want a goddamn spear. What is so difficult about that?" He said, likely for the tenth time this night. The protocol droid before him seemed to be the complete moon to his sun. His voice was chipper and accommodating where Lucien's was cold and short on patience.

"I'm sorry sir. However, you have not been accepting into The Confederate database yet. Although we have your enlistment on file, it must be verified that you were drafted into the Knight's Obsidian, otherwise your weapon's selection shall remain limited."

Lucien pinched the bridge of his nose before gesturing to the droid, agitation thick in his voice. "Ok, so what are my options as a Confederate soldier?" He asked.

"I'm sorry sir, as your enlistment cleary states you are to be assigned to the Knight's Obsidian you cannot utilize any requisition that does not go through that specific unit. Once you were tasked to the Knight's Obsidian your standard Confederate military account lost all it's privileges so that your Knight's Obsidian account could be activated."

"What?!" Lucien raised his voice, looking to the droid in disbelief. Surely this had to be a bad, bad joke that someone was playing on the man to get him back for something he did. "That is the stupidest thing I've ever heard. So I can't get anything through the military or the Knight's Obsidian, what can I get?!" He demanded. The protocol droid tapped into the terminal below, checking it's records before finally raising a single metallic finger. "Ah! You are authorized to be issued one canteen." Lucien was silent as he stared at the droid in disbelief.

"What?" He said, not for the last time it seemed.

"A canteen sir, to store water in. Although I think we do not have any more here so you ma-." The air around the droid shifted as it's metallic head was ripped from it's body. Flying to Lucien's palm through his command of The Force. Lucien watched as the automatons body fell lifelessly and it's head began to lose power. "Sir...please....release....canteeeeeeen." It said as it finally went dead. Lucien tossed the droid's head back over the counter before turning to make his way towards the assembly area, muttering some profanities about droids as he did.

 

[Scherezade deWinter]

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Location: First Floor, South Lounge​

Wearing: Dress​

Tags: [member="Cardinal Vi'dreya"] | +Anyone welcome to join​

​

The slight disappointment did not show on her face as he refused to turn around for her. There were other ways to get a view at a man's derriere, and she had no doubt he would be able to remain front-faced to her all night long, but she still would've preferred it if he had. But what had managed to entirely freeze the smile on her face and make her blink in confusion was Cardinal's response. He… Had brought extra. And he was serious about it. It wasn't part of the innuendo that had thus been in its diapers, progressing by the millimeters. She had thought that the look he had given her, the appreciation he had shown at her little spin, had meant they were mutually ready to progress with it.

But she had been wrong. He was not interested at all. She had misread the signs. His smile had been one of familiarity and platonic fondness, nothing more.

Hoping that that the low lights would conceal the blush of embarrassment, Madalena turned to look at the dancers that had enthralled her earlier. Cardinal had taken her hand to lead them both closer to it and she looked at their hands for a moment before her gaze returned to the magical dancers.

"It's breathtaking," she whispered. Once again she could feel it, that distant hum of the song that so demanded to course through her body, to shed her dress so she could enjoy the freedom of movement that the dancers had. But alas, it was not to be that night.

The story of his childhood sounded fantastic. She could picture it; the fire, the village around it, and an old man telling tales while children fought. "It sounds delightful," she said in all earnest, now looking at him, not understanding the look on his face. Was he saddened to think of times long gone? Was there another negative emotion stirred within him at it? She wished she had such stories she could share as well; but she had been born and grown up on Coruscant, a city planet as cold and as distant as one could be. The stories of warmth that her childhood had held were those of her and her brother, not of the streets around them.

And then he was smiling again, asking her questions.

"Never," she admitted, "I only heard the name in passing. I've still to read the background of the planet and its people on the brief before we hit the war zone. I'd intended on doing it after the celebrations were over. I know Josh is part-Echani, but he never speaks of it really other than to very rarely say that he is."

Sighing, Madalena paused a waited that passed by them with some drinks, picking up a glass of what she hoped was champagne or something else that was bubbly and pretty-looking. As long as it was not beer.

"These celebrations are… They're a little confusing," she found herself admitting after a pause, "no one celebrated when my parents died. No dances, no songs, no performances. I remember screams, and crying, and then fighting every day anew. There was no… Joy, in it. Not that the Echani rejoice in the death of their own but… Do you know what I mean?"

 

[ToKola Bakari]

Location: First Floor, South Lounge
Objective: He has no clue
Tags: [member="Scherezade deWinter"]

Yes, Cardinal was painfully blind to some things, even those directly under his nose. However where he was blind to some things he was keen to others. When he saw the lowest signs of a flush on Madalena's face he could not fathom what was wrong. Had she been sick or upset? The man did not know and so he had said nothing.

Cardinal caught Madalena's sigh and briefly glanced over to her as she sought out a drink for the evening. He decided to follow suit, taking a drink and bringing it up to his nose to give it a brief smell. He didn't care for the aroma but the drink was not made to be a pleasant scent, merely something to give the senses a push. He sipped from the flute, still holding Madalena's hand. As she spoke he could not help but nod his head at her words. “I understand. Death, to become one with the Great Gods, The Force, is something that rules all emotions. It reminds us of all we are and are not, usually causing people to lash out… Seek an escape.” He explained, pulling his hand from Madalena's. His hand rose, as the force bent to his will. The liquid in his glass rose at his command, swirling and moving as he spoke.

“When my father died. He was given a water burial. It's a very sacred tradition and a time to rejoice. For ten days he would bathe in the sacred Waters, his body preserved and cleansed. For those days it would be a time of life and celebration. A time to have with friends, with lovers, a time for happiness.” Cardinal spoke and his hand rose to Madalena's cheek. The wine returned to his glass as he unknowingly closed the distance between them, his tone hushing.

“Three warriors would use the Force… Commanding the Waters to rise and fall over the village. It was beautiful, unique, and very special.” His lips curled to a smile once again as he looked down to Madalena. “Like you…”

Cardinal could not make heads or tails of the way he felt around Madalena. Perhaps he had been alive too long and forgot what it felt like to genuinely enjoy someone's company, or it could be a result of his own hardening. However with his hand placed on her cheek, all he could do was think of what he wanted to do, but he would not, he could not.

 

[Kasca Fen]

Location: Second Floor, North Half to South Half Cafeteria Wearing: This lovely dress and these shoes Tags: Free for all​

It had been a hard few days. Kasca had spent much of her time tending to the children of Eshan. They had, as all children did, many needs. Between emotional support, mental comfort and physical distress, the children were a plethora of chaos. Kasca thought she had done well though, giving doctors and parents time to rest and recoup. Hours of entertainment, organization, and tending to every individual need she could had certainly taken their toll on the small Arkanian though and eventually, she had left the children in the capable hands of the recently refreshed Echani doctors and parents. She herself had come on board the Enyalien and went straight to the second floor. There she joined many who had found refuge in comfortable beds and quiet, peaceful space. She had been so exhausted that she had barely had time to shower before she knew her body would give out. As soon as her wet-haired head hit the pillow, she had fallen into a deep and dreamless slumber.

There had been no guarantee that her sleep would been dreamless but she would later thank the Spirits that it had been. The faces of the terrified and injured children had been torture. Their cries had filled her ears and her heart and she would never forget them. But this night, there was someone looking out for her. The voices were silent and her dreams gone. Someone who tended the floor, came up behind her and gently covered her in the fluffy, soft blankets. Their warmth enveloped her and deeper she went so that it was many hours before she found her pale eyes opening.

She could sense that the party was beginning. No doubt everyone could use happiness in the wake of such a tragedy born on the Mandalorian Empire's... well whatever reason they felt justified the slaughter of an innocent people... It wasn't for Kasca to say. She didn't really much care. They would pay in due time and she would be there when they did.

She dressed with care and put her hair up. The red contrasted well with her pale skin and hair. It was a celebration of life, but also the promise of blood and the red of her dress was very appropriate to that theme. She left the other sleeping people and made her way out of the North half. Where did she want to go from here?

What was left on the second floor was genuine food and wellness center. The idea of food was a strong pull. The idea of swimming later was a very good one and she made a mental note to enjoy that after she was done celebrating. Then her attention went to the first floor. Not being a military leader of any sort, the West Lounge was right out. The North Lounge was for Rememberance and Kasca could not bring herself to listen to any more stories of loss and sadness. Her heart simply could not take it. Thus, she did not go that way. What was left was the celebration or meditation. Both had their advantages, but it was her stomach that decided for her.

She turned and went to the cafeteria, absolutely ravenous after her hard slumber.

 

[ToKola Bakari]

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Location: Second Floor, Cafeteria | Objective: Get a weapon | Tags: [member="Kasca Fen"]​

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When Lucien made it to the armory he found himself staring at another of the Logistics droids. Immediately he turned on a heel, making his way out of the West hall. He'd stood just outside the hall, bracing his hands on his hips as he considered just what he was going to do. There was still plenty of time before they needed to prep for deployment, if anything he'd do better to rest and relax now as there was no telling when he would again. The low grumble that came from his stomach caused him to chuckle a bit as he shook his head knowingly. "You're the boss."

He'd been clad in a marvelous tunic. Certainly something one would see in the halls of Illyria, as opposed to an area preparing itself for war. Even for these events it was slightly overdone. The golden embroidery that ran along his shoulders and down his back were equally flashy. In fact the only thing on him that was not so flashy were his black boots, which seemed freshly polished. They were a slight contrast from the rest of his attire but not an entire contradiction. Lucien's hand fell into his pocket as he moved up the stairs, following the path he hoped would lead him to a decent dinner.

His mind began to wander, as it often did when not being presently entertained. He thought of the Echani people he'd seen displaced by this whole mess. He'd never even heard of an Echani before he'd joined the Confederacy. His shock when he finally saw one of the white haired warriors had been so apparent his Master, [member="Naedira Darcrath"] had to stop him from staring at one of them. It was not that he found them odd or out of place, all of their women just seemed stunningly flawless. His mind cast out deeper and deeper as he moved through the hall until finally it led him somewhere he did not intend to be.

Slam!

Lucien felt his chest slap into someone {[member="Kasca Fen"]}, when he walked he generally walked with a certain, unyielding stride so it would have taken some impressive coordination for the woman not to be knocked over. The moment the impact caught him, Lucien stumbled a bit before looking to the woman apologetically. "Oh, chit. My bad, I wasn't paying any damn attention." He would offer her a hand to right her before gifting her with an apologetic smile. "Sorry about that, again." He glanced over to the cafeteria that they both stood in and gestured for the Lady to enter first, as was courtesy on his homeworld. "Please." He said, before rubbing the back of his neck a bit. "The walking chest you just ran into is named Lucien, by the way. I guess I just kind of zoned out."

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[Lis'Ra Fennick]

objective: socialize
outfit: https://i-h2.pinimg.com/564x/cc/8e/7f/cc8e7fe21104b2930e76341a14b1a3c6.jpg?b=t

She was by herself, but that was too be expected, she wasn't a sociable person. Instead she found a corner by a pillar and was drinking a glass of disgusting champagne that for some reason Darth Metus found acceptable. Her hair was nothing extravagant, simple loose curls and a few golden silver pins to push her hair out of her face.

Looking out among the crowd she could see a few people she recognized, but most she had never seen before. She always tried to keep a low profile due to her embarrassing communication and charisma skills. So she kept her outfit simple, a dark black floor-length dress with simple shooting stars and stars adoring the dress. Taking another swig of the champagne, she placed the glass down on a table and looked around for server so she could get another glass. Social events weren't her priority, nor her expertise, and then with the fact that she didn't have her rifle was also making her anxious as she saw all the bodies move about one another.

She smiled when she saw a server holding a tray of not just champagne but scotch as well and she could feel the relief wash through her as she didn't have to take another swig of that awful champagne. Grabbing the glass of scotch, Lis'Ra was able to disappear into the shadows of the dance once more as she stood by a pillar and watched people mingle about.

 

[Kyyrk]

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Location: First Floor, South Lounge | Wearing: Simple Robes | Tags: None Yet, open to interaction | Music: To Take Away Its Pain​

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Fear. Pain. Suffering. Death. Anguish. Voph felt all this and more resonating within him as he walked through the station. Gone were the usual armors and dress tunics that he was so fond of. Instead he wrapped himself in a simple tunic, lightsaber hung at his waist where it always stayed. His head was covered, save for his mouth and chin, by a simple veil the same blue hue as his tunic. And though he stood, watching the lively dance before him, he could not help but feel immense sorrow.

Some of it was his own. But no matter how lively and happy the people around him were, he could feel it. Reverberating at the very core of their beings. Loss. So many had died at the hands of the Mandalorians. He never grew used to that feeling. That empty pit in his stomach. That same feeling he'd had over Ziost, watching the planet consume itself. That same feeling he'd had time after time, world after world as the Zakuul Empire marched over the rotting corpses of planet after planet.

These people were here to celebrate the lives of their fallen family. Something Voph wished he could share. His thoughts drifted briefly to that grave, freshly dug in the foothills of Ilum. The life that lay buried there. The only family he'd ever known. Voph was glad he was wearing the veil. A symbol of mourning, that served to conceal his face. Voph had never been an expressive person, but even still, he did not trust himself to maintain his composure. His gaze turned slightly towards a couple conversing near by. One, he recognized vaguely as the leader of his new found order. The woman with him, a stranger. He made no move to engage them, however. They seemed to be having a moment to themselves. And he would not deny them that. So instead he sat down at a table near the door, opening the cap to his flask, and taking a sip of the harsh contents within. Eshan burned. And soon enough he would be returning.

 

[Ithiel Vi'Dreya]

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Location: East Lounge, First Floor - Small training room.
Objective: Meditate Find the Force.
Tag: Teachers, if you dare. Otherwise, solo.
Posts: #1

Quiet music behind him through the doorway, low lighting into a black room with a thin training mattress across the floor. Ithiel was apart even from the quieter ambience behind him. Free of any disorientation that had clouded him, the drugs gone from his body, the culprit not yet dead. Darker energies of his lineage were more readily in the man. No longer a boy. The Vi'dreya breathed deeply of all of it. Silently knelt with a blade across his legs. The weapon was tensed in his grip by both hands. A battle between darkness and light. Clan and family. Nobility and savagery in his heart. He carried it well. Usually. Not on days like today. Today that darkness was greater, more apparent in his mind and body.

Alone. To protect them from him. Concentrating on the air around him. No training yet in the force, only instruction on what it was. His chest rose and fell, allowing it in. Ithiel gripped the blade in his hands, the metal solid and ready to be used. Holding it back and keeping it steady. A weapon in a weapon, him. Others needed today to drink, to relax. He needed today to make sure he didn't kill anyone tomorrow, anyone that didn't need killing.

That place. Every Verd or now Vi'dreya he'd ever met knew that place. Went there now and again. Behind the black goggles, there was calm on the knives edge. He tensed his palm on the blade so much it pierced the skin slightly. Gripped and held in place. That place. The Mandalorian released the weapon, a crimson stain across it, and breathed again. Keeping the eyes shut.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AM9MLY8-Vh8


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[Chikako Liona]

Location: First Floor Dance Floor
Objective: Dance Dance Dance
Peps: Open to interaction
Post: 1

Chikako's muscles burned with exertion as she stepped around the dance floor, the women taking part in one of the sacred fire dances. This period of strife while a sad one for herself and her people was also an opportunity to become closer with them. She had been practicing almost non stop back on Tythe for this event, her effort paying off as she moved around the floor. Her motion regal and smooth, conveying to her fellow people the royal stature she held as a princess, each step and twirl light and agile.

It was a shame when her routine came to an end, the music winding down as Chikako came to a finish position, giving a small bow to those that were watching, sweating a little from the dance. Practice and actual execution was certainly different, the latter coming with more nerves making it seem all that more harder to pull off, like a huge weight was on her shoulders during the entire routine. 'Guess I need to practice in an actual setting more, that was quite the work out".

Walking off the stage she convened with one of her body guards, another Echani, herself holding a towel out for her charge as she walked away allowing others to start their own dance. "That was quite a nice sight to see Princess, for someone with amnesia you certainly seem to remember quite a lot about dancing,, your mother was quite good at it herself". Chikako happily took the hand towel, whipping her sweat covered face before wrapping it around her neck, "thank you, it was tough but I am glad you liked it, I am quite thirsty now, I think a good drink is in order, to the punch bowl".

 

[Lirka Ka]

Objective: Let off steam
Location: Fitness Center
Tags: [member="Kiff Brayde"]


Lirka didn’t even look at him, simply continuing with what she had been doing. The Sephi was not known for being particularly nice unless having bankrupted the confederacy with the bill on her tap, and the current situation only made her more irritable.

[SIZE=11pt]“If you want something, say it runt.”[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]Her accented voice was harsh, not entirely intentionally. Lirka was just a particularly gruff woman, a product of decades of pit fighting, training with assassins, and less than savory work in the Underworld: even if she was better than when she first joined this lot.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=11pt]But the Sephi continued, half a test of her new cybernetics: the skeletal metal limb seemed to perform it’s task effortlessly and admirably,[/SIZE]

 

[Kasca Fen]

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Location: Second Floor, North Half to South Half Cafeteria Wearing: This lovely dress and these shoes Tags: Free for all and [member="Lucien Rayne"]​

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There is nothing to celebrate. Who do you think you are?

They don't need you. You are young... inexperienced. Not worth their time. ​

You are only capable of entertaining children. Even they grew bored eventually.​

Are we going to war? Let's go to war. Let's kill something. Let's die trying. Can I see guts? I wan't to see guts.

Fire. FLAME. Screams. ​

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Obviously, Kasca was rather occupied by the voices in her head as she walked through the hall toward the Cafeteria, the voices silent to everyone but apparently [member="Darth Metus"], her new Master. They were her torment and her own mind. They were a part of her and never away for very long. She took a deep breath and told them to shut up in her mind and thankfully they did just before BAM!

Kasca was not THAT coordinated. There was no way even a woman with a dance background and a slim athletic figure could turn this unexpected collision into anything other than sprawling limbs, a riiiiiiip as her heel caught in her long skirt and a smack, slam, clack clack on the floor. It was not graceful. It was not pretty and she winced as ankle, booty, shoulder and head hit the floor in a spectacular way. Had this been a comedy show, it couldn't have been more funny, but this wasn't a comedy show and Kasca was less than pleased.

She looked up at the 'walking chest' and scowled at his hand and his apologetic smile. Damned humans... not watching where they were going. She sighed heavily and reached up, taking the assistance to stand. There were more than a few tender parts on her body but upon inspection, nothing seemed truly damaged except her dress. It now had a rather indecent slit down one side. Thankfully, it wasn't in the very front, it simply ripped along the vertical side hem and mostly couldn't be seen unless she walked. Her skin was a very pale contrast to the bright red. Her hands went up to her hair, checking it and was at least mollified that it hadn't been too disturbed that she could tell. A few more tendrils of pale blonde hair fell around her face, but all the rest was still up.

Finally she looked up at the 'walking chest'. "Yes you should have watched where you were kriffing going. You are not the only person on this station you know." She huffed, albeit it might be funny considering her diminutive size compared to him. "Fine," she said walking through the doors of the Cafeteria at his behest. She was limping only slightly.