Faction The Beating Heart | Succession on Alderaan {GA, Alderaanians & Guests}

[Alicio Organa]

Aldera, Alderaan
Ballroom of the Royal Palace

The royal family of Alderaan was gone.

The Council could avoid that hard truth no longer. Queen Faith Organa had been a good leader, kind and just and passionate towards her people, all people. Her, and her King, Draco Vereen , had kept the Heart of the Alliance beating, and beating strong. The people of Alderaan had hoped, perhaps in vain, that her disappearance would be a short affair, that Faith's family would resurface, and things would return to the way they were.

They had not. Yet, Alderaan perservered.

But no longer could the Great Houses afford to wait. Battles along the Alliance's borders heralded darker wars to come, and Alderaan needed leadership. It needed a ruling house again. For the first time in years, a Moot was called, a grand meeting in the capital city of Aldera. Join the Great Houses in the grand meeting chamber within the Royal palace. Mingle, claim a seat, and prepare to discuss the future of the Alderaanian people...

Alicio was tired of quietly losing family

His journey to where he was today had started with Faith. It was her that empowered him, emboldened him, her that had instilled him with hope when he hadn't a lot to spare. She had given him so much- his first governmental position, her blessing to become Senator, her trust... And now, she was gone. Missing, or dead... The thought of it stung him deeply.

He couldn't shake the pain in his eyes as he and Amani Serys walked up the marble steps of the Royal Palace. Still, the looping gold sigil of his family decorated the walls, hanging from banners strung from colonnades. If he hadn't known what they were here for, Alicio could have tricked himself into thinking they were going to a ball to dance, or a fundraising gala for Sanctuary City. Part of him hoped, beyond all logic, that Faith would walk down the stairs to greet them, thank the Count and Countess for coming, and usher them inside.

But Faith wasn't here. And the Duke and Duchess of House Organa were alone.

With one arm looped around his wife's, and dressed in fancy blacks and blues, Alicio slowed at the top steps of the palace. Already, he could see past the front doors. The grand dance hall had been converted to a meeting chamber. Chairs of stained mahogany lined the edges of the room, and one table sat at it's center, dwarfed by the size of the ballroom around it. It had enough seats for the leaders of the Great Houses, and their guests, to sit. To discuss a prize the Organas wanted no part of. A burden they may have had no choice but to fight for. People were already discussing inside, some with serious countenance and hushed words, others with flutes of fizzing drinks and polite chuckles, but Alicio hesitated at the doorway.

"The last time there was a succession crisis on Alderaan... was when my parents went into hiding. My family nearly broke apart because others were fighting for the throne." The dour noble's mouth pursed. He was nervous, shown not on his face, but in the way he clutched Amani's arm. He relied on her strength, even more than he usually did. "I don't... want this. But I really don't want anyone to go through what I did. So... if we have to..."

He turned towards her, letting his forehead rest against hers, throwing propriety out the window for a brief moment.

"We do it together?"

- Valery Noble - Kahlil Noble - Jalen Kai'el - Caelia Lamora - Corazona von Ascania - Vokeo Iga - Jace colis - Lodd Grimmin - Delila Castillon - Osiris Thul - Inanna Harth - Damian Du Couteau - Astor Daaray - Jenn Kryze - Akeela Garval - Ariel Organa-Perris - Sahan Dragr - Gatz Derrevar - Commodore Helix - You? -​

 

[Lodd Grimmin]

THE BEATING HEART

Alicio Organa ​

The Trade Federation's Minister exchanged a meaningful gaze, his bug-like eyes darting from one end of the table to the other. The opulent royal theater was filled with the influential Great Houses of Alderaan, who had gathered to express their support for a new monarch following the mysterious disappearance of the esteemed Queen Faith Organa.

While the Queen's vanishing act posed a challenge, it presented a golden opportunity for the Trade Federation of Planets to remove one of the staunchly anti-corporate senators from the senate chamber. This would eliminate one troublesome obstacle in their grand plan to reinstate a corporate administration to the Chancellorship of the Galactic Alliance, once Auteme's term had officially concluded.

To achieve this objective, the new ruler must have a strong alliance with the Federation, as only then would they have the power to confront the Senator from Alderaan. The other noble factions were considered too clever for their own good, immune to the influence of the Skakoans and Neimoidians who controlled the Trade Federation from within.

Therefore, House Ulgo, known for their rebellious nature, became the ideal target. Despite their reign as the Monarch of Alderaan during the Old Republic, their rule resembled more of a military dictatorship than an officially recognized monarchy.

"This is a ridiculous affair, Minister. My House has the rightful legitimacy to the Throne of Alderaan. None of these backwater houses could even compare." Ransik Ulgo's voice boomed with confidence, disregarding any concerns of being overheard by the rest of the attendees. Once a respected Alliance Military Officer, he had recently been stripped of his position due to allegations of incompetence. However, his fury now held potential, as it could be harnessed to intimidate the other houses into submission.

"Patience, Lord Ulgo. Your House will have the throne once more if you follow my suggestions." A hushed whisper was given in response to settle his nerves for the time being.

 

[Amani Serys]

Alderaan
Alicio Organa - Lodd Grimmin - Open​

To see now Duke and Duchess Organa threatened with yet another looming responsibility would have almost been humorous, if not for the cause of it. As much as this was a meeting over the future of Alderaan, it ought to also be a mourning of the monarchs that came before. Faith and Draco, who had by all accounts represented their people justly, missing far too long to simply continue waiting it out. Wherever they might be, Amani prayed for their safety, but it wouldn't bring them back any sooner. And it left Alicio's family growing that much smaller. Amani never had a big family of her own, but she couldn't help but wonder what pain she had been spared, watching Alicio's continued sufferings. It did not stop her from hurting with him.

Adjoining her husband as they arrived in the grand hall, Amani was adorned in a lovely white dress that could no better fit an occasion; Shimmersilk and Chalcedony, trademarks of Alderaan displayed proudly. Yet neither Organa expressed eagerness over the proceedings. Even this far, looking at Alicio, Amani could only wonder: Did they truly want this? The Duke confirmed her suspicions plainly. But they were nothing if not dutiful. Should the name Organa be called upon once again, as it had so many times throughout Alderaanian history, then the Organas would answer.

So... if we have to... We do it together?"

Amani studies Alicio's features closely. She offered a reassuring, if subdued, smile, and brushed his arm, "Together." The Duchess confirmed, as they stepped into the arena.

 

[Jace colis]

Tag: Alicio Organa Amani Serys Lodd Grimmin

Jace had his eye on those in the moot it was similar to a senate hearing the events here would send ripples through the galactic alliance. That was why he was here as impartial eyes for the senate his disdain for politics was founded. Especially in moments like this nobility vying for more power to institute laws and rules that benefit their house. And those that voted for them instead of for the people that they ruled.

Plus the fact that alicio could be removed from his office as senator which would weaken the alliance as a whole. He would do anything in his power to stop that from happening senator organa was a pillar of the senate that the other senators looked up to. He even gained jaces respect which was hard to do almost impossible even he could see the gears turning and saw the trade federations minister he heard Ransiks voice boom and watched the minister whisper into ransiks ear. And why is that ransik so you can turn alderaans monarchy into a military dictatorship again we saw how well your career in the alliance military whent stripped of rank due to allegations of incompetence how well will that run a planet assuming you wont be a puppet for the trade federation jace said coldly in an even tone.

The sub-committee member for the SIA sat there looking looking between ransik and the trade federations minister. He also had his own sources that tipped him off to ransiks own misfortune. Which was why he sent a formal investigation into those affairs to get to the truth of the matter as he saw the Duke and duchess organa jace gave a bow from his seat.

 

[Gatz Derrevar]

Ship: The Red Night
Weapons:
Tag: Alicio Organa Lodd Grimmin Amani Serys Jace colis | Open

Gatz had no place here.

He was Nubian street trash, not some noble, and certainly not Alderaanian. He was more at home in dark alleys and seedy bars than in palaces and ballrooms. He was filth that had been dragged into an otherwise colorful and beautiful setting; Hutt scum staining marble with an ostentatious red jacket, and his very presence. But Alderaan would simply have to cope for a short while.

He might not have belonged here, but Gatz did have reason to hang around the back of the ballroom: a show of support for a teacher who'd taken time out of her busy schedule to support him, whenever he'd asked it of her. Perhaps his presence was unwanted, or his vote of confidence unneeded... but he would remain all the same.

After all Master Serys-Organa had done for him, how could he do any less?

Gatz was little more than one of her many students, and really, his support meant nothing. He held no sway over deciding the new ruler of Alderaan. He knew nothing of those who would lay claim to the throne—hell, he didn't know the first thing about Master Serys-Organa's husband! He was a faceless peon, unimportant, and a wasted body taking up space a more important person ought to fill.

But that was fine. He wasn't expecting to be noticed, much less for the Chief Healer or anyone else to take time away from such an important manner to speak with him.

Gatz was here because, if he'd been in her shoes, he'd want someone in the crowd to be rooting for him. And that was enough for him.

 

[Inanna Harth]

Attire
Direct: Alicio Organa Amani Serys
Vicinity: Lodd Grimmin Jace colis Gatz Derrevar + OPEN
​

Inanna found it hard to grasp that things had come to this. Though she had met her only once, Queen Faith had seemed so indomitable, warm and kind and very much alive. Her reign should've lasted another fifty years, at least. Even Rianna Organa , the wise Jedi Master who had paused their diplomatic mission just so that she could help Inanna heal from past traumas, had apparently disappeared. They were all gone.

Except for Alicio. He had a family of his own now, but she knew from experience that losing one's roots could make you feel alone all the same. She also knew that if he caught her comparing their tragedies, he would insist that his pain and grief were nothing compared to hers. That was what Alicio was like.

Simply by virtue of being near the door when they arrived, Inanna was one of the first people to approach the royal couple. Beside her were a few other recognizable faces: Enkidu and Tiamat, who had worked alongside her and Alicio during the dark days of the SGHW, were now full-fledged Alderaanian citizens. Before Inanna had a chance to say anything, Tiamat surged forward and went to shake the Count Duke's hand. "The Shi'ido of Maranatha have come to show our support for the man who helped us when no one else would," she said.

Inanna's features relaxed into a smile. She was still damned proud of what they did with Maranatha. Old Enkidu clearly shared the sentiment; he seemed to be on the verge of tears, too choked up to speak.

"I've come as a friend to the both of you," she said after Tiamat had stopped pumping Alicio's arm. "How are you feeling?"

 

[Lucas Gracin]

Alderaan was a planet of beauty. Lucas had seen that clear as the glasses he sippped his wine from the second he had entered the planet's atmosphere. It was a planet with a language of flowers that stood unbroken despite a tragic history. Whats more, house Organa had connections to house Torrevaso. Those memories might have been faint half forgotten memories from the Valde's previous life, but when Gracin had told his leader about the news of the missing royalty, he could see the heartbreak in his eyes. Another friend lost to time, though he had simply nodded and given Gracin his next mission. Ensure that Alderaan passed to a just government.

His eyes were fixed on the younger Organa's as they descended, searching for anything that might attestto their character. Hand in hand, he could tell they were unified, though it wasn't hard for him to discern Alicio's unease with the situation. He'd seen that same unease on the Valde when h'd first been elected. He would grow out of it, though hopefully he would keep the humility to understand the honor of his situation. Speaking of honor, his ears flicked at another's sudden voice, and he strained a bit to keep the sneer from his face while turning to see the rival contender for the throne. On Veradune, it was almost a requirement that someone serve their time in the military before pursuing any sort of political office. They were afterall, a warrior people. It was expected that one serve before their candidacy. On that same note, while serving was an unofficial requirement, removal for incompetence was an unofficial disqualifier. As far as Lucas was concerned, Ransik Ulgo's political career had died before it had even been birthed. "Now now, Senator Colis," he began softly, approaching to take a seat beside the scar faced senator. "As a former military man, taking orders and enacting them competently is imperative. I dare say that a failure to be successful in those endeavors would make a candidate a poor choice, even as a puppet."

Alicio Organa Amani Serys Inanna Harth Lodd Grimmin Jace colis Gatz Derrevar

 

[Maeve Linahan]

Maeve grumbled to herself, scratching at the collar of her dress.

Pretty as the gown was, it made a poor substitute for a set of armor. Although the fabric was softer than silk and sparkled with white gemstones—almost like stars—she hated the feel of it on her skin and how thin it was, like the stitching might tear at the smallest tug.

It wouldn't protect her from a knife, or a stray blaster bolt, or even an overturned flute of champagne. It made her feel exposed, vulnerable. Weak.

But that wasn't going to stop her from protecting House Organa.

Countless guests had come in support of the Organa family, but there was no telling what could happen at a packed assembly like this, and Maeve was determined to make sure the succession went smoothly—and in the Duke's favor. Of all the whiny, preening nobles present, it was only Alicio who was entitled to the throne.

Some might've thought the man as just "Amani's husband," but he was so much more than that. He and Maeve had fought an Arkanian dragon together, for Ashla's sake. If anyone deserved the title of King of Alderaan, it was Alicio, and no one else.

As for Amani? She gave birth to twins. That was more than enough to earn the title of Queen.

Open​

​

 

[Damian Du Couteau]

Damian Du Couteau, Senator of Empress Teta
Location: Royal Palace of Aldera, Alderaan
Outfit

Damian was content, it was difficult to be happy, but content was achievable for the young Du Couteau heir. Even though he found himself among other Nobles and Royal dignitaries, and while in any other circumstance he would have felt rather tired, this day was about the ascension of a new King and Queen of Alderaan. Senator Organa had found himself safely back home and now was being rewarded for his hard work. Years in the making. Damian read in his father’s notes that he found the then Count Organa quite promising and Damian agreed. None more worthy as many have said. So Damian indeed was quite content.

There were other Senators present aside from Damian, he noted Senator Jace colis. He’d probably recognize others by the end of the celebrations, if not Damian would find his memory quite embarrassing. Turning his gaze elsewhere, Damian’s scarlet eyes found the future leaders of Alderaan. Regal, determination, and compassion, words Damian would use to describe their appearances before everyone.

Taking those first steps into a new world, a leadership he probably never thought he needed to fill but fill it he will because he must. Damian wouldn’t think less of Alicio if he had doubts or fears. I had when I took over my father’s titles and roles. Already people began to head towards both the future King and Queen of Alderaan, Damian moved to get closer. Best to give my congratulations early, Damian found that if he waited any interactions near the end would never happen. As he walked Damian looked around and took a moment to look around at those present.

Best to give a good impression among those present, don’t want rumors spreading that I appeared unsocial.

He approached a lady in a beautiful gem encrusted gown and bowed in greeting before speaking; “My name is Damian Du Couteau, Senator of Empress Teta.” He began as he stood back up straight. “If I may have the honor of knowing your name.” He asked as he held out his right hand.
​

|| Maeve Linahan ||​

 

[Commodore Helix]

Open​

Commodore Helix strode gracefully through the doors, hands folded behind his back. He was flanked by a pair of the new H4X droids. Bodyguarding was perhaps not their intended task, but until the new droid model made for that very purpose was finished, they'd do. He expected no trouble here, but if word had gotten out yet about his recent operations, there might be.

Officially, Helix Solutions was a neutral party in galactic affairs, professing open support for nobody. Unofficially, support came to whoever paid, at least for now, but nobody needed to know that. His little band of mechanical terrors had been a very busy bunch lately, making waves and announcing their presence as a new, ruthless, and ambitious player on the scene. It was time to carry that momentum forward, and show the galaxy he didn't lack for audacity.

He was here simply to pay his respects, get a look at the Alliance's movers and shakers, and perhaps secure a business deal or two. He wasn't overly optimistic on that last point: the Alliance neither lacked for military force of their own, nor was overly fond of mercenaries who would well and truly balk at nothing.

Still, visibility couldn't hurt his brand. There might be someone present who needed what he was selling, and if not, then so be it. He'd get to enjoy the minor pleasure of intimidating a few organics, then be on his way. Not to mention, he might pick up other useful bits of information. Organics got very talkative when the alcohol started flowing.

He glanced idly at his escorts. He didn't know if this were the sort of affair where bodyguards were expected, or even permitted. It never hurt to be cautious, though. Or to let everyone know he was ready for trouble.

He then turned his triple-eyed gaze to the room itself, and seeing there were limited seats, and nobody else appeared to be bringing security, he spoke to the droids. "Wait outside." He said. "I'll contact you if you're needed." Wordlessly, they obeyed, spinning on their metal heels in perfect sync to head back down the way they came. They'd probably holo-disguise themselves as some manner of harmless bystander or another and find some way to amuse themselves. That solved that mystery.

He took his seat early, placing a datapad on the table lest he be mistaken for a protocol droid like the last social function he visited. One would think a nearly 2-meter-tall machine with armored plating and a menacing red-eyed stare would not come across that way. He supposed it was the fact that nobles never interacted with droids beyond the protocol variety. They might not even know there were other kinds.

Or maybe it was a deliberate snub against the 'new money' coming in to ruin the vibe. Helix was, he was 67.2% sure, older than the city and everyone in it, but his wealth sure wasn't. It wouldn't do to make too many waves here. Best to remain polite and professional, and give the Alliance, and more specifically Alderaan, a good impression.

 

[Lodd Grimmin]

THE BEATING HEART

Jace colis Lucas Gracin [Directly]
Everyone Else [Indirectly]​

Ransik Ulgo gaze possessed an intensity that could annihilate an entire planet, and as the Senator for Had Abbadon approached, the atmosphere grew tense. However, the conversation took a sharp turn for the worse when the Senator broached the topic of House Ulgo's plans to transform the Monarchy into a Military Led-Dictatorship once again. While this notion wasn't entirely unfounded, it was fueled by the Trade Federation's encouragement of civil wars, which required weapons for combat.

"Senator Colis, we are honored by your presence. Of course, your unique perspectives do you a disservice....." The Minister of the Trade Federation cast a fleeting look towards the chair occupied by the Senator, being cautious not to deny any of the allegations of corruption hurled at them. That was a matter for the public to ponder upon while purchasing their numerous goods. It was imperative to prevent the other senators from endorsing the rise of another Organa to the Alderaan throne, thus requiring delicate diplomacy.

"How dare a sniffling, rotted worm speak to the Lord of House Ulgo in such a way. Do you know who I am! I AM RANSIK ULGO, THE HERO OF A HUNDRED BATTLES, BASTION OF THE FREE GALAXY." Ransik Ulgo's fury was palpable, his face turning crimson as if a vein was about to burst from his forehead, all because of the blunt comments made by the Senator of Had Abbadon Jace colis . A hand was slammed against the table, as the Minister silently watched.

As fate would have it, the situation took an unexpected turn when Lucas Gracin entered the scene. He casually remarked that a has-been Alliance Military Officer would be a terrible choice as a puppet for the Trade Federation of Planets. However, they were mistaken. All they truly needed was someone who could dethrone Alico Organa from the Senate and eventually eliminate Ransik Ulgo in the future.

"And as to you!, lowest of lowborns from the backwaters. I am no one's puppet certainly not during this affair. I will be crowned King of Alderaan through whatever means necessary." The Lord of House Ulgo strikes back once again, but this time with a slightly less furious tone. If the rightful path to place an Ulgo on the Alderaan throne was blocked during the succession turmoil, then resorting to military might would be just as effective in claiming the crown.

 

[Osiris Thul]

Alicio Organa Amani Serys Inanna Harth ​

---

"Nervous would be my guess."

Calculating eyes fell upon both heirs apparent to the throne of Alderaan. Golden accents swirled through fine crimson silk, the colors of House Thul. Nothing like a succession crisis to inflame old tensions. Few families could hope to rival the Organas' political influence but then his bloodline was known for their reckless ambitions. Some oaths once sworn during times of civil war could not be so easily broken.

"Organa," Osiris greeted them in turn, "Master Jedi."

He spared the offworld representatives a courteous nod. Last cycle's court gossip had been filled with scandalous rumors concerning the tragic death of Duke Horis and a son who'd abandoned sacred Jedi vows to claim his birthright. Now there would be new whispers about Ulgo's drunken tirade.

"My condolences. Your cousin was an extraordinary leader."

 

[Jenn Kryze]

​

| Location | Alderaan
| Objective | Make like an owl and be wise

"First, Naboo, and now, Alderaan. You really do bring me to the nicest of places."

Jenn rolled her eyes in the face of Karrys' quip, all but shoving her helmet in the smug pilot's hands. "Enjoy it while it lasts. I'm not making a habit of going to this sorts of event."

"Then I'll be sure to enjoy the impromptu shore leave on one the finest worlds this galaxy has to offer." Oh, but she really, really wanted to get that shit-eating grin off her face.

"Smartass."

"Don't you have a thing to attend to? Boring Alor stuff?"

As a matter of fact, she did, and she knew that she could not exactly stroll up clad in beskar. It would be a poor show, a quick way to attract unwanted attention - and frankly, she had no desire to cause a scene. Not when she had decided to come here to offer some measure of support to a pair of individuals she had come to respect, in spite of the rather tumultuous circumstances behind their initial meeting.

So it was that she left her armor, threw a humble cloak over her no-nonsense ensemble of jacket and jeans, and made the decision to attend something that Henryk would surely tell her was none of her damn business. Or the Clan's business, for that matter, which was precisely why she came as Jenn rather than the Alor of Clan Kryze.

That, and she kept a vested interest in giving Amani as little reason as possible to separate her head from her shoulders as she had promised. Not that she would have been the most surprising sight to be found at such an event: droids, technocrats and other members of high society brushing shoulders? Not quite her cup of tea, but then again, she had never let that stop her before.

For now, she was content to watch the two Organas from a respectable distance, offering but a firm and respectful nod of her head if either of them looked her way, but otherwise mindful not to contribute to what might very well just be a busy day for the two of them. Much like the Owl representing her Clan (and whose eyes gazed proudly from her helmet at most time), she observed the many attendants, careful to navigate the flow of people and conversation by giving herself the time for a thorough analysis first.

Besides, she was here for moral support, she supposed. There was hardly anything more she could offer them, given her cursory understanding of Alderaanian politics...

... although the voice of a particular pretender made it all too easy for her to guess that things might just be an uphill battle for the stalwart couple.

And they call my people a contentious lot. Tsk.

​

 

[Auteme]

Alicio Organa Amani Serys
​

Moments after the couple entered the ballroom, a child dressed somewhere between household servant and parentally-dressed heir ran up to them, forced an envelope into one of their hands, and scurried off without a word.

Inside was a poorly-made Alderaanian postcard depicting an idyllic landscape near House Organa's lands, modified only by a grainy photo of what seemed to be the Chancellor on the front. She was grinning like an idiot with a big thumbs up outstretched.

On the other side, a familiar hand had written:

Monarchy is cringe, but you two are alright. Ask and you shall receive. Bonne chance. See you soon. - Third A

P.S. Let me know if you need a babysitter sometime.

 

[Maeve Linahan]

For a man hoping to appear social, Damian made a poor decision, choosing the least sociable guest at the assembly to prove his point, but it was too late.

As he approached, Maeve pursed her lips, arms folded over her chest. She dismantled him head to toe with her gaze, noting his outfit, his pale hair and porcelain skin. He wore a cloak with blue lining, held together by a silver pin, and he clearly moved and spoke like a highborn, no doubt raised in the halls of some lavish palace. A true nobleman.

Maeve should've bowed, but she didn't. She was above curtsying to politicians.

Instead, she accepted his handshake, squeezing firmly—perhaps too firmly—before offering her name. "Maeve Linahan," she said. "Jedi Knight."

Better to keep things brief. She wasn't much for pleasantries, and she didn't want to risk a diplomatic crisis if she ended up accidentally insulting the Senator to his face, which was a lot more common than one might've thought when Maeve was involved.

Still, she'd try her best to be nice—for Amani, of course.

"I take it you've come in support of House Organa?" Maeve asked. You better have. She forced a smile as she attempted something of a conversation. "You must know the Duke well."

Damian Du Couteau , Open​

​

 

[Damian Du Couteau]

Damian Du Couteau, Senator of Empress Teta
Location: Royal Palace of Aldera, Alderaan
Outfit

Damian grateful for the return his hand, he gave it a brief glance before placing both hands behind his back. Next time I'll bow only. Nodding as he heard Knight Linaha introduce herself rather curtly. Her first question was something Damian had planned and expected, so the answer was simple, but the second question was a different matter entirely. And despite having quite a bit of time to figure out how to explain their acquaintance, Damian found himself struggling to come up with a rather neutral response.

Can’t rightfully say the first time we saw one another in the same room we disagreed on a rather important political issue. . . . but I don't need to keep an appearance of impartiality at the moment.

“Yes, I'm here to show my support.” Damian answered, he felt a tad uneasy but he returned her smile with his own, albeit a smaller smile. “As for my relationship with the Duke, we shared a rather unfortunate experience with the Maw together. He proved his mettle then and has continued to do time and time again.” Damian explained a rather brief history. “How can I not be impressed.”

Damian had been worried when he heard about Alicio’s captivity by the hands of the Mandalorians. Even though his fears were unfounded in the end, the suspense of knowing that the galaxy could lose a bright shining star shook the young Du Couteau heir to his core. It seems all I have in spades are dreary thoughts.

Something inside Damian warned him to keep this conversation short, but he resisted as he figured it was probably just his shyness. Can’t be antisocial in every gala and party you attend Damian. This was a celebration after all, what else was there to do but talk? Damian though did take comfort in the fact this was far easier than data-slate work back in his Senate Office.

“And yourself? Friend or family or a Supporter?”
​

|| Maeve Linahan ||​

 

[Alicio Organa]

Aldera, Alderaan
Ballroom of the Royal Palace
- Amani Serys - Inanna Harth - Osiris Thul -​

"Together."

That was all Alicio needed to hear. He nodded, kept their faces close for a moment, simply drinking in his Duchess' presence, before turning and stepping into the ballroom.

There was a verifiable mess of attendants. Delegates and leaders from the Great Houses, of course, but also plenty of familiar offworlders. It only made sense, after a moment of thought. Alderaan held a great deal of influence in the Alliance, thanks to Faith, and his efforts in the Senate. This decision affected them, too.

The first to approach him was a cadre of people he was well aware of. Inanna Harth and her entourage were met with a subdued delight. Tiamat nearly shook the Duke's arm clean off, but he held strong. Though, Alicio switched from strength to gentleness quickly, as he returned Enkidu's struggling silence with a knowing nod, and a quick touch of his shoulder. "Thank you both for being here. It's... nice, seeing friendly faces. And... thank you for the support." Inanna asked him how he was, and he took a moment, thinking over the question.

"Nervous would be my guess."

The frown that Alicio had just managed to shake returned to his face as he turned, seeing the crest of House Thul. The House that had plunged Alderaan into it's last civil war, dislodged Simon and Elinor Organa from Alderaan, and taught Alicio to always look over his shoulder.

That hadn't been Osiris. That had been other Thuls. So despite the sudden stab of unease that pierced his heart, Alicio stepped forward, and offered a brave smile, and a hand to shake. "You aren't wrong, Duke Osiris. Thank you for coming. House Thul deserves a say in what happens here, tonight."

Osiris' continued thought left Alicio with pursed lips. "She was a paragon." His lip twisted, grey eyes thoughtful. "Though mine isn't the only House that lost it's head recently. I... understand the feeling, of losing a father." There was a pause. "I'm sorry."

It hadn't been easy for Alicio to learn of his parents' demise. Alicio studied Osiris' eyes in return. Maybe they shared that experience.

Finally, Alicio gestured towards the three Shi'ido, flickering a nearly imperceptible smile. "You should meet Enkidu, Tiamat, and Inanna Harth, of Clan Hoole. They are here representing Maranatha." The best project Alicio had ever done the paperwork for. When the Shi'ido lost their home to the Maw, Alicio had worked with Inanna to move a population of Shi'ido refugees to Alderaan. Now, Maranatha was a sprawling beauty in Alderaan's tropical belt, it's shapeshifter residents full citizens of the planet. They had as much right to be here as the Dukes themselves.

 

[Amani Serys]

Alicio Organa - Inanna Harth - Osiris Thul - Auteme - Open​

Seeing Inanna before anyone else was a reassuring welcome to the evening's events. Their relationship had not always been squeaky clean, but they had put those squabbles behind them, and forged a friendship in spite of it. Not just Inanna had come either, but a few of the other Shi'ido from Maranatha as well. They were quick to show their gratitude. Amani knew how much it meant to them and Alicio that the project and gone through, let alone become as successful as it had. Regardless of the Organas' nerves about this potential change of titles, it was nice to have a few ardent local supporters at their backs. "Thank you for coming. I was hoping the Maranathans would make it. How is life treating you?" The friendly faces from outside Alderaan were also nice, but at the end of the day it wasn't their monarchy to choose. Hopefully the other citizens didn't raise too much concern about 'external influences'.

Speaking of, Osiris of House Thul made his presence known with a discerning observation. He wasn't wrong. Amani did not know him, but she knew of him, and the history of his family. "A pleasure," The mirialan dipped her head at his acknowledgement, unsure if she should read further into the disctintion between Alicio (Organa) and her (Master Jedi), or batter herself for already overthinking things. The two Dukes exchanged words of commiseration, and as they did, Amani noticed a young child scampered up beside her, and forcibly plant an envelope in her palm. She stared in bewilderment as the strange gremlin retreated as quick as they had come. She examined the postcard, and the humorous image of the Chancellor on the front. The Duchess allowed herself a snorty laugh, subdued for the sake of decorum, before tucking the message away for now.

Auteme didn't know what she was getting into if she was offering to babysit. If the Organa twins were feeling particularly mischievous, it could lead the Alliance into anarchy overnight. Thankfully the only person they might drive mad this evening was Eloise Dinn .

What good was a padawan if you couldn't use them as a nanny every now and then?

 

[Maeve Linahan]

"I am both friend and supporter."

Maeve eyed Damian. Normally, she'd have said that and nothing more, but he seemed trustworthy enough. No reason to give him the cold shoulder just yet.

"I've been with the couple since their marriage. The Duchess and I are... good friends." There was a time when Maeve would've hesitated to say it. During her first days as a Jedi Knight, she'd never made friends, never cared for them, but a lot had changed. She had changed.

Had she not, she probably would've called Damian an elitist peacock whose family line reeked of inbreeding, but she was better than that. Mostly.

"I'll admit it took time for me to grow accustomed to the Duke after their marriage—I never did like nobility—but Alicio is different. He is a good man." No offense to Damian, of course. She was still trying to decide what he was. "He's saved countless refugees, fought for peace at every turn. He's more a king than half the men here."

She looked pointedly at where Ransik Ulgo sat. After the man's drunken tirade, she had briefly considered tossing him over the nearest balcony, but that could wait.

She'd settle for the look of humiliation on his face when Alicio was crowned instead.

"Now, Senator, perhaps you should find your seat. Or maybe greet the future King and Queen of Alderaan? The proceedings will be starting soon, and I doubt you'll want to waste your time trading pleasantries with the security detail."

Maeve tilted her head. She was giving him an easy out from the conversation. Better he take it, else he risked even more unwitting insults to his heritage…

Damian Du Couteau , Open​

​

 

[Osiris Thul]

Alicio Organa Amani Serys Inanna Harth ​

---

"How...kind of you to recognize our claim."

Duke Thul's jaw tensed. Entire campaigns once fought over the bad blood between their families. Books could be written and had been written on just the list of past grievances, but it all began with one simple truth. House Organa had never believed his bloodline worthy of the throne. Were they destined to be like this forever?

Osiris' continued thought left Alicio with pursed lips. "She was a paragon." His lip twisted, grey eyes thoughtful. "Though mine isn't the only House that lost it's head recently. I... understand the feeling, of losing a father." There was a pause. "I'm sorry."

"My father was a complicated man," something darker than grief flashed across the noble's eyes just for a moment then it was gone, "His expectations could be difficult to live up to."

They both scrutinized each other. Osiris searched for any signs the duke was being insincere. Slowly becoming aware the moment had lingered too long for decorum, he spared Amani an embarrassed glance. Seeming to reach the same conclusion, her husband made polite introductions.

"Charmed I'm sure," the duke in red's smile looked almost too perfect, "House Thul can trace our own lineage beyond its roots here on Alderaan. It is fortunate our society is more welcoming than it was back in those dark ages, wouldn't you agree Duchess Amani?"

Ancient tales of knights and the errantry wars against awakening killik nests filled their people's history books. Thul's ancestral territories the Castle Lands were so named for the abandoned hive monuments of a precursor race. Alderaan's human colonists had displaced one species before and it remained to be seen if these shapeshifters could integrate.