Herald of the forgotten
Golden eyes and silver lips.
Rayia Si
In high spirits, Ailmar's crew had carried on with their song and drinks well into the evening. Soon enough they would begin to migrate into seclusion to avoid a confrontation with security. However, for the time being the large group of sailors beholden to the spirt congregated around the bar and continued enjoying their night of rest in song. Some of the more gifted folk broke out in dance, with a large half circle forming soon after, those partaking in the evening gradually encouraging each other up to and beyond becoming a nuisance to other party goers.
Others lounged in comfortable chairs scattered around the area, their weary bodies sinking into the cushions as they savored the momentary freedom from duty. Laughter and chatter filled the air as they shared stories of past adventures and dreamed of the ones yet to come. Nearby, a group of crewmates gathered around a makeshift table, engaging in a spirited game of cards. The clinking of glasses filling the air as they toasted to friendship and camaraderie, their voices blending harmoniously with the lively music drifting from the festival bar and personal instruments.
By the time Rayia made her way through the crowd and up to the bar, Ailmar wasn't alone. However, as she approached and her presence became apparent through murmurs and the buzzing of the Holo, those accompanying Ailmar quickly dispersed, joining the crowd already gathered for song, drink, and dance. Ailmar was already well into his second drink, and clearly joyful of the occasion. His first glass remained in front of him, patiently awaiting the overworked bartender who had been single-handedly managing the bustling bar until enlisting assistance from the spirits crew. It was clear they were quickly downing his stock, the least they could do was lend a hand. Among those lending a hand was Camilla, alongside a diverse group including a one-eyed Lasatan, a dignified Chiss lady, a slightly intoxicated Togrutan woman, an elderly Bothan sporting a monocle, and a remarkably efficient Durosan. Together, they kept things running smoothly behind the bar, ensuring the celebration continued without interruption.
Ailmar turned to face Rayia, a warm and welcoming smile gracing his features as she settled onto the seat next to him at the bar. "Not at all, such fine company is always worth the wait. Didn't seem like all that long though, decide against propriety did we?" He adjusted the crimson handkerchief in his breast pocket once more before subtly raising two fingers to signal the bartender for another drink. "I too find privateers more sociable, as much as I love diplomats and nobility. Here, have a drink, on me." his offer was careless in nature as he turned back to relax his posture.
Sure enough, Camilla responded to the wave, swiftly making her way over to the two of them and leaning gently against the counter. "Don't listen to a word he says, this sly-tongued knife ear ain't selling nothing but smugglers' tales and bantha fodder." The insult wasn't meant to cut deep, and it didn't, as Ailmar casually scoffed and rolled his eyes. He placed his hand upon his heart in mock pain, whispering, "I'm hurt!" playfully. This prompted a snicker from Camilla, who turned back to ask, "What can I get for you, Cherie?" Camila herself wasn't the fighting type, a Sephian with gentle features and a cheerful demeanor, she was more suited for lab work than any form of combat or intensive work.
As the night wore on around them, Rayia no doubt overheard comments about herself from various crewmen. Some speculated about her origins, with a handful debating whether she was Zygerrian, Catharan, Farghulan, Togorian, or perhaps another feline species altogether. One poor soul dared suggest she was Bothan, but they were laughed out of the debate and smacked gently over the head on their way out. A surreal feeling it was, hearing whispers questioning what you were. But, eventually the speculators narrowed the two choices down to Jazbinan and Felacatian, which itself devolved into bickering over if Jazbinans had fangs or not. Thankfully, there were enough sources of noise to drown out the questions.