The Emperor's Ball

[Dethroned King]

Location: Galidraan, Blakeslee Falls Estate, Ballroom
Post No. I
With: None

Captain Has Zellos was not the type suited to parties. He never turned down an invitation to mingle with the powerful and elite of the Sith Empire, but the ornamentation and celebratory spirit always fell flat to him. Pompous displays of power and military parades were his idea of celebration and cause for excitement, but a gathering of the Sith Empire's political and military elite to an event hosted by the Emperor himself was reason enough for Zellos to attend.

Of course, the Sith Empire had many reasons to celebrate. It's recent dominions over countless of systems coupled with the fall and annexation of the Commenor Systems Alliance, in which Zellos had personally taken part, was sufficient to be given an annual holiday, yet instead, the Emperor decided to commemorate it with an annual ball, and on Galidraan of all places. Zellos didn't particularly criticize the location, but another location -- Bastion, the Capital, or some other planet with more prominence in the Empire -- would've sufficed. Zellos didn't voice his opinions, of course, but merely observed the crowd, a glass of some brew native to Empress Teta that Zellos had become particularly fond of in hand.

 

[Nilia Saavilin]

The Outer Rim, Galidraan, Blakeslee Falls Estate, The Ballroom, Unspecified Time
Devil's Temptations | Interacting with [member="Darth Maliphant"], [member="Vaylin"] | [member="Vestille Thumahra"] ~ Glory and Gore ~ "It's clear that someones gotta go."
——————————————————————

The Zabrak female that had appeared gave Nilia a bit of a confusion, but she knew better than to let that slip. Vestille was, at the present, still occupied with the pair, so she supposed there was time to meet one of her master's seemingly endless associates. How many did he know here, compared to her? She suspected their list of 'Sith Pals' would be drastically different.

Not friends. Maybe, once, enemies. Definitely; associates.

Curious brown eyes fell on this mysterious new face eagerly, to inspect her. Clearly, a fellow Force user, likely one of near-rank to Maliphant if she was starting to grasp the hierarchy at play here. Eyes swept over to her master, head tipping a little, "Care to introduce me?" She murmured, the arm linked through his tightening a little. Those eyes flicking back over to Vaylin even whilst her face was turned to him expectantly. By contrast, the apprentice of the pair seemed to be the one not sleeping, generous and skilled applications of make-up could not hide dark circles and the loss of focus that set in with deprivation. The Force sustained her at the moment; but not entirely. After tonight, the former Senator would either sleep like a child or be up all night once more in regrets.

Ah, well. The evening wasn't over yet, and there was much to learn. Ever the proper follower, she waited for her master to take the lead before speaking directly.

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Evening Wear Attire

 

[Yasha Cadera]

Ballroom
Communing with [member="Lady Kay"] [member="Alvarex Zambrano"] [member="Kaine Australis"] [member="Jor Kvall"] [member="Jake Awaud"] [member="Abel Australis"] [member="Caz Australis"] [member="Muad Dib"]

“We won’t be long, Aunt Kay.” Alvarex was ever the handsome Prince attempting to fulfill the etiquette-bound demands of his station. Although confident Alvarex would enjoy a Mandalorian party much more than this structured affair, she took his arm and winked at Kay and her escorts. Out of the corner of her eyes, she saw [member="Koda Fett"] eyeing them... if he was here, the other exiles were sure to be close. Having capable Alor'e like Jor, Kaine, Muad and Jake around eased the potential for Yasha's combative guard.

“My daughter’s also dressed like a crimson cupcake with flowers on top. Quite the hard bit of fluff to miss.” Yasha smiled as she and Alvarex walked through the ballroom’s outer portion, stepping away from Kay and Jor.

“More surprises? I am all astonishment, Sir Prince! The beard was a surprise indeed.” A grin greeted his admittance of forethought and planning, which only grew as he bumbled through what to do first. Tea or dance. It was in the crest of her diminutive laughter that a photographer snapped a picture from a distance. A close-up of the grinning Mand’alor, arm in arm with the Prince.

“Alvarex, breathe.” Yasha slid her left hand onto his cheek, thumb stroking to bring his mind a sense of calm. She missed the gyrating charades of Sarlow, which was most assuredly to Alvarex's benefit. “Let’s dance. I haven’t waltzed since I was a little girl, I’d love it. The dancing on Mandalore is a bit more…. visceral.”

Half expecting to see [member="Abel Australis"] breaking out the Sundari Shake or Funky Shriek-Hawk on the dance floor, Yasha took Alvarex's hands and placed the left on her waist, the right in hers. She perched her right hand on his shoulder and nodded them into the rhythm of the beginning waltz just as the conductor began it. Little did Yasha realize they were the first couple to the Waltz in their section of the ballroom. A thrilling and unabashed grin swept across the Infernal’s uncharacteristically chipper face, rekindling her love of dance.

“I could dance forever.” Yasha whispered. It was the memory of fonder times with Aditya Mantis, her ill-fated mother, which brought Yasha’s love of dance to the fore. Aditya was, above all, a ballerina and refused to spend a single minute without reminding her daughter of some stroke of the boards. While not a Mandalorian past-time, it was Yasha’s secret hobby, her one modicum of stress relief from bitter days.

[member="Darth Carnifex"] [member="Darth Prazutis"]​

“Captain Girak Nereus Kierke, Head of House Fitz-Kierke of Panatha.” Girak walked into the ballroom unobtrusively, his husband Hector on one arm and wife Ada on the other. Ada was off like cannon fire out of an auto turret, seeking the ever climbing social situation the grandparents of Yasha Mantis received.

“Can you imagine this, Girak? The Emperor’s Ball! Ada’s apoplectic with delight.” Hector chuckled, sliding his arm around the aging Epicanthix man’s waist. Girak shook his head and caught sight of [member="Darth Carnifex"] with his great-granddaughter [member="Adara Raxis"] and [member="Kaine Australis"]. The God-King’s eyes narrowed dangerously, and Girak followed them.

“I know that look. What is it this time, Deacon Kierke?” Hector nudged his bent knuckle against Girak’s side and the man grunted, a softened glow to his face.

“Mircalla Zambrano… Prince Ancius’ mother.” Girak barely had to finish before his husband sighed in shared grief and kissed him.

“Don’t be long, I want that dance before Ada threatens to hoof us off to the nearest eligible spinsters.” Hector’s eyes narrowed, his lips pursed. Yasha’s grandfather chuckled and squeezed Hector’s hand before walking off to the gardens, where he saw the human wife of the God-King.

“The night makes longing memories beautiful, eh, your Highness?” Raising his hands in the blessing of Nereus, the religious Panathan bowed his head. “Girak Kierke, your grace… might I show you something? I promise it will not take long.” He produced a holo-projector from his pocket, and awaited permission from Carnifex’s wife. Flicking the projector on, a Panathan estate shone in three dimensions, the angle fluctuating to a family mausoleum.

“Forgive my forward conversation, but I too lost my firstborn. A daughter, whom I loved.” Girak's amber eyes glistened with a shared grief, that of a parent’s regret. “The pain does fade, but never completely. Only the gods can cure it… and they do so by guiding us through remembrance…”

The Heraldry of a Panathan Cedecim hung on the noble, yet humble artifice, in comparison to the grandiose burial chambers of the Zambranos. On a plinth of fine marble, a monument larger than the rest.

‘In Dedication of Prince Ancius Zambrano, ​

The Son We Would Love.’​

“… my granddaughter Yasha’s mother also died protecting another, thrusting her daughter into the hands of a stranger during the Mandalorian Cataclysm, before the lava overcame her. I cannot heal the wound created when the disgraced stormtrooper murdered your son. I cannot heal my own wounds of grief… yet Ancius’ memory lives in my family’s daily prayers. His altar, dedicated to Nereus and Nussyn remains constantly lit, the incense rising where we yet cannot follow. I know this may not be a comfort to you, but Yasha too memorialized Ancius in the Sundari Palace, in her private garden off her apartment. She remembers him daily in her prayers, and wishes that those events had not turned so cruel… forgive me if this irks you, your grace… but a lowly Cedecim as I gets so few chances to entreat with the wife of a god. Ancius shall live eternal in honour… I hope that brings even a little comfort.” Girak bowed his head, hands folded as one trained in the Temple of Nereus, as he and his father and his grandfather had been. In moments of continued pain, it was all one could do.

 

[Kay-Larr]

Kay hooked her arm with his. [member="Krest"] wasn't one of the Siths that she couldn't stand being around. On the contrary, the two had shared tea and quiet conversations ever since they had first met. Although some encounters weren't so pleasant. Still, the air about him seemed to hint that he was on her side. She hoped that she could say the same about [member="Jor Kvall"] too.

She chewed the inside of her cheek as he apologized for not being there during the siege. Ferus wasn't the first to have stayed away during the fight. Alliances were fickle things. And however it disappointed her that such help could have tipped the scales during the battle, she understood their reasonings. More than once Kay had faced the same thing herself.

"Thank you. And you're forgiven, just as Yasha and the others are. I can't blame you for what happened. It was betrayal that let my enemies in..." She kept her pave even so that Jor could walk beside them both.

"What future do you have in mind? Any changes would..take a while..."

 

[Varian Alaric]

Location| Gardens, Blakeslee Falls Estate, Galidraan
Objective| Having a good Evening with Varas
Equipment| Red and Black Suit
With| [member="Varas Ren"]
Nearby| [member="Umai"] | [member="Julian Imani"]
Status| Confused and Happy

Primat wouldn't say he was worried when Varas didn't respond right away after the awkward moment of silence between the two of them. Even if Varas did have a thing for Asphyxiation, he wouldn't worry much about it. It wasn't that much of a pressing matter to the young Disciple. Though, the thought about it certainly made the man nervous. Their first time alone together had been fraught with awkwardness and nervousness about what to do, and it seemed he would have to start compiling a list of things Varas liked to do. Asphyxiation being at the top of the list. Primat wasn't entirely sure what to think about that news. Even if Varas did have a thing for that type of stuff, he wasn't sure how to proceed with doing anything relating to that. However, he brushed away those thoughts from his mind for the time being. He could inquire Varas further about the subject later and see if he was actually right in what he was thinking or if he was incredibly wrong and just overthinking a bunch of stuff. He didn't need to dwell on the maybe's right now, he would find a definite answer later.

Primat had not even realized the two of them were not alone until she had actually brought it up. His senses were too focused on her that he hadn't sensed another couple nearby through the force, at least he assumed they were a couple since he heard the movement of feet which meant they were dancing, most likely. Primat didn't know what to do, so he followed Varas' lead. A lead which had led him to do what she had done, laugh out loud. It wasn't a chastising one, but a warm and just rather carefree laugh one that wasn't meant to laugh at someone, but more in joy or shock than anything else.

He grinned at Varas once she mentioned giving them privacy. Of course they would go and give them privacy to do whatever it was they were going to do, Primat didn't know and din't much care to go dwelling into their business. Though, he was annoyed that their time in the garden had been cut short. He was hoping that the two could have snuck in a few kisses in the privacy of the garden. Something which...they could still do. He quickly pressed his soft lips against her tender lips, kissing her for a few fleeting seconds before pulling away. It wasn't a long or drawn out kiss like he would have liked, though he didn't want to intrude on this couple's company anymore than they had already. "Yeah, definitely." And with that, the two sneaked away from the dancing couple, finding there way into the ballroom somehow.

 

[Mellifluous Magenta]

Rowena Ewesa
Post 4
Attire: Short Black Dress
[member="Karl Von Strauss"]

As Rowena brief giggling fit subsided, the music changed once more to another waltz. The piece had a calming aspect, yet it still had the rhythmic beat that made it a perfect for dancing. Rowena was initially reluctant to leave the ball room floor so early in the night, especially when she enjoyed the music so much. However, upon hearing Karl mention hot chocolate, a smile lit up across her features and she dutifully followed him up the stairs.

"This piece sounds so good for dancing, but I agree with hot chocolate! I might take a quick foray to the outdoor buffet as well." Rowena said in a soft tone. "I would like to see the cakes and desserts they have on offer..." She added with a mischievous grin.

As much as she enjoyed dancing with Karl, at some point, Rowena did want to meet some of the other guests to the party. After all, Karl had coaxed her to be his guest with the opportunity to meet some more officers, especially those from other states. With so many officers and lords of the Sith Empire gathered in one place, Rowena felt like it would be a irresponsible for her to squander the event.

"I would very much like to take the ball room floor again at a later time, tonight." Rowena began. "However...I think I would like to find another dance partner." She added in a soft tone, sounding somewhat nervous at the proposition.

As Rowena finished, the waiter arrived with the hot chocolate on a serving plate, which he gently set on the top of the table before giving a casual bow.

"Enjoy your drinks, sir and madam." He spoke, before scurrying off to fulfill other orders.

 

[Darth Ferus]

"A free future of course." They were simple words, but they would hold far more meaning then a casual observer would know. Krest continued to bring [member="Lady Kay"] in a random direction rather than right to the tea, just for a little while longer. "Have you heard from your husband? I hear the Sith aren't too fond of him. He'd have to sneak on world to see you wouldn't he? Such a shame lovers have to be separated." His smile faded for a moment, him stealing a glance her direction.

"How are you enjoying your guard detail?" [member="Jor Kvall"]

 

[Abel Forsworn]

As his brother continued on to his duties as ba'buir, or "baba" Abel corrected himself, he chuckled and tossed back his drink before grimacing as he took one from the platter to try. Moving along the outskirts of the ballroom floor he watched as the Manda'lor [member="Yasha Mantis"] pulled the Prince of the Sith, [member="Alvarex Zambrano"] , onto the floor for a quaint dance. Most of the mando'ade that were in the know seemed to have displeasure or straight out rage at the pairing. He shrugged and tossed back another drink. It was no concern of his who she wanted to do the horizontal hula with, her riduur was dead after all.

Moving along while still keeping an eye on his Mand'alor he began clearing the tray of drinks. [member="Kaine Australis"] and the little pup, [member="Adara Raxis"] , moved from the form of [member="Darth Carnifex"] which caused him to laugh. What strange bedfellows they made this night. Still chuckling he handed the empty tray off and caught sight of [member="Lady Kay"] easing from the room.

Sighing as duty kicked in he turned to follow the Queen of Commenor yet two things slowed his gait. One was that one of the mando'ade was already following her, the other was his eyes fell upon two beautiful women lounging alone and viewing the others quietly. As his eyes followed the curves of the women he swiftly ran his hands through his hair and down his jacket to smooth out any imperfections.

Approaching them he slowed and offered a deep bow before straightening. Raising his hands to his chest he sighed theatrically before speaking to the women, [member="Salara Zambrano"] and [member="Invicta Zambrano"] .

"What tragedy of fate has caused such beautys to sit idle instead of on someone's arm enjoying the festivities? Such elaborate manifestations of feminity must be worshipped, not neglected. I humbly offer my services, to entertain such women well above my station and most assuredly outside of my class. Yet mayhaps the Force has smiled upon me, for I have the opportunity to ask if you would care for a dance? And if yes, I shall be your humble servant for whatever services you may request of one such as myself."

He bowed low with a hand extended. He knew he was the most handsome nor the most physically domineering, but standing closer to seven feet tall then six and being a warrior his entire life had given him a powerful and rugged physique. And despite the fact that he was no royalty he was a man who knew that perseverance and character won in many circumstances. His lips curved into an open smile as he straightened awaiting the response from the two goddesses who had graced the event with their presence.

 

[Darth Prazutis]

As [member="Darth Carnifex"] made his way deeper into the ball the Shadow Hand found himself caught up, delayed by various top officials including Generals, and Admirals. The Lord of Lies was the pinnacle of power in the Empire where distance and proximity to the Emperor meant a good deal. In addition his reputation as the Kingmaker continued to draw more in, more ambitious individuals who made it a point to greet him or introduce themselves the proverbial "kissing of the ring" as it were. Nonetheless it was an important piece in this ball of intrigue as it introduced him to the players of the great game where he was the master. New ambitious officials replaced old ones as they jockeyed to climb higher in the ranks of the Sith-Imperial elite.

Knowledge was power and he made it a point to amass as much of it as possible especially in regards to top level officials. After all you never knew when that knowledge could be used later. By the time he had finished with the greetings and managed to break away Kaine was already moving to greet the adorable [member="Adara Raxis"], along with [member="Taeli Raaf"] and her paramour [member="Fiolette Yvarro"] as well as [member="Kaine Australis"]. There was a group of individuals who ranked high in his good graces the Lady of Secrets especially. They had a lot in common and maintained an excellent relationship. It was through their joint efforts that brought the Terror from Beyond into this world, a beast that was now tucked safely away where it was being studied and its potential explored. Already it showed promise with a horde of its bioform spawn that wiped all life from the world of Cazador.

Somewhere in the building he could feel the presence of one [member="Khonsu Amon"], his Sith Apprentice and the newest Praetor of the Golden Company. Khonsu held a lot of promise and absorbed every bit of knowledge he imparted on him, and he caught on quick. If he continued at this rate the man would go very far in the ranks of the Sith, and he could see several futures ahead that gave him ideas as to what the man could accomplish he reached out to his apprentices mind and spoke into it "Welcome to an entirely different theater of battle. Come find me." He said before making his approach. The Shadow Hand decided to make his approach to beside Kaine specifically because he was facing the other three in the conversation, and so Adara would see him approach. He gave an amused smile towards little Adara, he too was a father and found himself to be protective of the little one since she called out to them in her time of need.

"The Emperor speaks the truth you both look beautiful tonight, enjoy the evening you both have been crucial to the Empire's success." He said. Since the last time he saw them they were summoning an eldritch creature he never did get a proper meeting with Yvarro who aided them. But the Lord of Lies shifted his piercing gaze toward Kaine Australis, a man he was well informed about through various dossiers he was given. The piercing gaze of the Goliath passed onto the man his eyes two burning, intense molten orbs that were like the rest of him was utterly impossible to read. Yet they managed to burn like two blinding twin suns seemingly peering straight through him, through everything as if he could stare into his soul "Warmaster a pleasure to finally make your acquaintance." He said. The previous brief interaction with Kaine spoke volumes and there was little left for him that needed to be said "Enjoy the nights events it's going to be one to remember." The Shadow Hand looked down towards little Adara then dressed to the nines for the ball including the necklace with the symbol of Nereus "Little one it's good to see you again, you look stunning. How do you like the necklace?"

 

[Vilaz Munin]

"No promises," Vilaz replied back to Ronan as they soon made their separate ways in the ball. Of course, they knew that there wouldn't be any wrist rockets coming from Vilaz. All of them wore their armor, yes; but the weapons system from their armor had been removed out of...courtesy of the aruetiise that surrounded them.

Though weapons or not, a Mandalorian was still dangerous with their fists and mind.

Shortly after, Bree had wrapped her arm around his and the couple walked amongst the other guests with some space given to them as the attendees didn't want to dirty their expensive clothing with their armors. Something that the Concordian smirked and scoffed at. These kinds of people were too sensitive. Always worried for their reputation and trying to please others. They'd wear some mask when meeting with others, but would change it immediately when departed away. A majority of them were hypocrites in the Munin's eyes. No doubt with their own loved ones they acted fake and unreal.

"Heh. Well, that may be true, but at least I am lucky to read you like a book, cyar'ika," the Warlord replied back to his wife, via encrypted comms, with a soft chuckle. Best thing about wearing a helmet in this kind of place? One could have a nice private conversation with someone without the worrying of someone eavesdropping. Also, one could criticize the masses with a mocking smile.

"Seems to me you'll owe me that dance after since I don't have my rockets or poison darts, though it'll be a bit awkward with our armor on," he said to his spouse as they continued on with dialogue and quips, "And let's at least meet with the Dark Lord before getting a drink, Bree. You think they'll have some tihaar around here?"

The two lovers then walked in the direction of the Sith Emperor who was accompanied by some members of his family and two other ladies, one who seemed to be another employer of his, [member="Taeli Raaf"]. Not too far away did he saw Yasha and her band of Mandalorians. "Vermin," he muttered under his breath. They looked ridiculous to him with their dresses and suits. A raging fire burned within Vilaz as he'd love to put the Infernal's head on a pike. Unfortunately, that would have to wait for another time. A time that he hoped would come soon.

"Su cuy, Kaine," the Warlord said, greeting his ally and colleague. The others would receive a nod of his helmeted face and would also greet them with, "Su cuy."

"I believe I've never introduced you to my wife, Kaine. Her name is Briika, Briika Munin," and mentioned to Bree on his side, her arm still wrapped around his. "How are the rest of you tonight?"

[member="Briika Munin"] | [member="Fiolette Yvarro"] | [member="Darth Carnifex"] | [member="Ronan Vizsla"] | [member="Koda Fett"] | [member="Tamara Wren"] | [member="Irella Vizsla"] | @AnyoneElseIMissed​

 

[Salara Zambrano]

The evening had gone on quite smoothly thus far, Salara held Invicta's hand as they sat in between another pair of [member="Darth Carnifex"]'s many wives. "Would you look at that? I recall when she first appeared in court." Salara mentioned as she leaned into Invicta's shoulder. The energy vampire nodded along and sighed, to say that some people never changed and that they were precious. "Aren't they always so precious?" The petite Epicanthix concurred with Invicta and then offered the woman up a little nuzzle as Invicta continued to critique the fashions presented at the ball. Salara found it quite endearing, she's learned to love this about the energy vampire. After all, they've only been married to the same man for well, they stopped counting the decades after two.

"Oh is that your boy?" Invicta asked gesturing to [member="Vaulkhar"].

Salara disagreed, "no, mine are scruffier. See there that's mine." She gestured to Sarlow who sat overlooking the ballroom like some sort of Shockball coach waiting to give his team instructions.

Invicta with some realization, "oh yes, yes no of course - is he, well he isn't Saijo's and the Shi'do doesn't..."

"You know I think he's one of the illegitimate."

"Oh dear, and they still let it in?" The energy vampire asked the Empress's condescension could be felt if not just heard.

Salara merely shrugged, as she sat upright, "you know our husband has a wandering appetite as it were."

"I wish it were more discriminating than wandering," Invicta concluded.

Salara suppressed a chuckle if only to maintain her composure. She cleared her throat and set her eyes to look upon her son and the Mand'alor [member="Yasha Mantis"]. It was by all accounts a good match on Panatha and for that, she would be glad. Yasha could fight, her son could fight and technically Yasha did come from a noble Panathan house not that it mattered much anymore. Her granddaughter and the First Order saw to the undoing of some of those houses and perhaps traditions. Salara had yet to return to her homeworld to investigate just how far this went. For now, she shifted her weight in her seat and that was when an unknown dared to approach the Empresses.

By now the other wives had gone on, either to dance with one another or to have tea in the gardens. So the two were alone, the man crafted his words and spoke his peace asking either of them if they should want to dance with him. Salara was to speak but it seemed Invicta jumped at the opportunity, the redheaded woman turned her attention to the man.

A single, delicate scarlet brow lifted in the barest form of acknowledgment to the young upstart that graced himself within their presence. Invicta delicately and gently gathered up Salara's hand in her own and offered the stunning creature a smile that could only be termed as predatory, the expression one that only the lovely lady would catch.


"You may go, child. You have erred beyond your station and far, far beyond your meager capabilities." Invicta breathed softly, the silken words laced with the slightest brush of Imperial venom and the sanctity of near half a century of marriage to an Emperor. The likes of a delicate Mandalorian would barely be an appetizer in comparison.

Salara bit the inside of her lip as Invicta spoke, the Empress turned to the poor lad. "I believe that was a no, and that's a no from both of us but thank you so kindly. Truly, although I know our husband loves to dance." The brunette gestured to [member="Darth Carnifex"], "there with the bright red Imperial uniform, the tall one with the shoulders. You may know of him, but he is such a treasure and we love him dearly. So once more, thank you and enjoy the evening."

Invicta waited until [member="Abel Australis"] had departed, "are you sure I can't eat him?"

"Darling please, we don't know where half of these beings came from and we both know if you do not receive proper nutrition..."

"Yes, yes I know indigestion is a bith."

 

[Vilaz Munin]

"Don't worry, there's a nice noose waiting for you, Australis. You'll have the honor of being hanged on Mandalore's highest peak when we return," Vilaz said in a calm, cold tone of voice.

The only words he would spare before [member="Kaine Australis"] went off to do his other business.

 

[Lynnori Cruz]

The Outer Rim, Galidraan, Blakeslee Falls Estate, The Outdoor Dining Area, Unspecified Time
Jonquil | Interacting with [member="Kole Harper"] (Others TBD) ~ Young and Beautiful ~ "I know you will, I know you will, I know that you will."
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It seemed the dining pavilion was getting more populated. No matter to Lyn; she had staked her claim, her spot at the bar with Kole and would not move no matter how crowded things got. Everyone else would have to simply work around her, which was how the prideful Zeltron liked it.

More drink and she dignified her partner with a response, "Yeah, it's possible I have," Painted lips smirked, her glass held in woven fingers now, instead of left idly on the bar, "Must be something special, I bet." The game on her end got a little shaky as she couldn't help but beam, breaking 'character' if you would, "You know. I'm damn thankful I called your name on Lithios, when I thought I saw you in the crowd." She manipulated her drink to be held in one demure hand, the other propped up with her elbow as she turned to rest her back along the edge of the counter, to face him more openly but also to give herself a better view of these new patrons wandering in, "So-- Thanks, I guess." Even getting that much out of her was a victory to drink to.

Well. Or just an excuse. Either way, Lyn chased it with the last of her drink, prompting her to set the upturned glass on the bar behind her.

——————————————————————
Evening Wear Attire

 

[Karl Von Strauss]

Location: Second Floor of the Ballroom
Gear: Suit
With: [member="Rowena Ewesa"] | Drinking hot Chocolate > No one

"Of course, go mingle with the other guests, that is one of the reasons I invited you." He sipped his hot chocolate, "Ahh, that's right if you need me you can contact me on this." He pulled out a holocommunicator from his left-inside pocket. "It's synced to the other one I have on me," he patted his right side pocket. "So if you need me or something you have a way to contact me." He got up and walked over to Rowena, he picked up her hand and kisses the back of it. "I will be looking forward to that next dance. Until later, I bid you adieu." He did a small bow and picked up his hot chocolate, then started to walk down the stairs. He nodded in acknowledgement to the couple that passed him on the way down.

As he reached the bottom of the stairs he ran out of hot chocolate. "Chit. Now what do I do." As if on cue a waiter walked up to him and replaced his empty cup with a full cup of hot chocolate. "Thank you." Then he started to walk out the front door of the ballroom. He was now alone except for the people that passed him on their way to the ballroom.

 

[Taeli Raaf]

[member="Fiolette Yvarro"] [member="Kaine Australis"] [member="Darth Carnifex"] [member="Darth Prazutis"] [member="Vilaz Munin"] [member="Adara Raxis"] [member="Invicta Zambrano"] [member="Salara Zambrano"]

"Thank you. The night has been quite the pleasure thus far, my Emperor," Taeli said, bowing her head in greeting to the Dark Lord. The giant man cut a striking figure in his military-style uniform, belying his usual appearance of ornate robes. But he was still an event horizon in the Force, an image of sheer power in the dark side. Little Adara was beautiful, every inch the princess she deserved to be. And in the Force, she was a little dark nexus, hungry and wanting to grow.

Now the Warmaster was an interesting study indeed.

"Thank you, Mi'nihy'a," she said, smiling and flushing slightly at the praise offered by Kaine Australis. "I was only doing my duty when it came to the Alliance." The flush was controlled, because at the moment, she was internally gauging the Mandalorian Empire's Warmaster and connecting the dots in her head. Whereas Yasha was a void in the Force, indicative of being Force Dead through some means, something she could follow, Australis was... just not there at all. The currents were not disrupted in any way around him. It was almost as though... ah. Now the picture was becoming clear, for a few different events she had been told about.

"I must say your career, both now and during the Yuuzhan Vong war, are admirable," she said, smiling brighter as the Lord of Lies approached. "I've been reading on the war, and I've noticed a few mentions of you taking part in the campaigns."

She nodded politely to the man she had worked with on several projects. She always did enjoy working with the Shadow Hand, even if their last project might have gone a little hairy there. The mental note had been made about next time they split an interdimensional portal to summon an eldritch abomination to reinforce the control spells.

And there was Munin, the man she had helping train Spaarti's first generation of clone soldiers. And tactful as a brick as always. And Australis equally so. It would seem little love was lost between the two factions of Mandalorians, but if either of them ruined the evening... well Fiolette knew what she would do to them. Banter was all well and good, but the threat of a noose and the highest peak on Mandalore. Really? Really now?

"Be mindful, Vilaz, we're all allies here tonight," she said, the underlying threat very very very clear.

 

[Adara Raxis]

“Mama Fio! Auntie Taeli! Look! Lookit my dress, Buir let me wear the crown and I’m gonna dance! I got to hug Glomkhoduil and pretend I’m a Lady. Are you going to dance too?” Adara waved at [member="Fiolette Yvarro"] and [member="Taeli Raaf"], the happiest child on Galidraan.

“Babaaa, Mama Fio is my godmother and Auntie Taeli is like my fairy godmother because she and Mama Fio are the best couple ever!” Adara hopped up and down in [member="Kaine Australis"]’ hold, giggling at her adopted daddy’s faux pas.

Silly Buir, he must have worried sick about getting to the dance floor! Yet there was [member="Darth Prazutis"], the Lord of Lies and by large the most dangerous being in the galaxy.

“Uncle Prasamussus!!” She flailed in her Baba’s arms, until he set her down and the girl scampered off to throw her arms open and jumped at [member="Darth Prazutis"] for a hug.

“Uncle Prazamussus I love my necklace and I feel good and Buir says I can dance two whole dances and you’ve met Baba now! I’m glad you like my dress. I feel like a fancy princess. Look! Lookit, I’s been practicing. Look!” Adara scrunched up her face, a look of concentration on her face as her fists curled into little balls. A nearby server with puff cakes yelped as one of his chocolate confections zoomed from the tray right into Adara’s hand.

“I did it! Are you proud?” Adara turned and looked to [member="Kaine Australis"]. “Baba? Can I eat the plunder of my victory? Or will it make the Mummin man feel better for missing his rockets? Do you want it, Alor Mumming? I'm sorry you can't find them.”

Adara held up the gooey confection, not a single clue in the world as to who the man was, or why it made her Baba tense. Why did it make Taeli tense, too? Adara blinked and gulped. "Ummmm do we need a hug moment, like Buir says, when Befthy gets mad like when I watch her diary?"

[member="Darth Carnifex"]

 

[Rakaan Horne]

GALIDRAAN​

BLAKESLEE FALLS ESTATE​

THE OUTERDOOR DINING AREA​

​

"She's special." Kole replied before the mention of Lithios with a sincere, slight smile and subtle nods of his head. That 'Lady in Pink' really was, to him. He can call back to the isolation of Arbra, spending all that time alone as someone that existed as an outcast, searching for a purpose- something to do with his existence within that dirt. Arbra, at the time, was within the territory of the Galactic Alliance. His tenure in their military was lengthy, yet ultimately came to a close as he began the next chapter of his life. Those were what his falsified memories told, that is. Kole believed that was the truth for he had no reason not too. Reality dictated that he began on Bastion, an Agent for the Sith Empire, taken by the Galactic Alliance and retrofitted with an identity that wasn't his, feelings that hadn't felt before, and the history of someone that may or may not have ever existed. It didn't seem as if any of that mattered, though. Kole had created a life for himself, a life with Lyn.

Kole had taken another sip from his glass.

He hadn't said anything initially. The Droid's synthetic, seemingly real, eyes remained on Lyn before briefly stating, "Me too." Confirming that mutual longing for one another in their time apart. It felt far longer than it was, and it wasn't anything he could explain. Maybe he felt guilty for never reaching out, but it was fine. They were here now.

[member="Lynnori Cruz"]

 

[Jor Kvall]

Sense is needed
for one who travels widely;
everything is easy at home.
He who knows nothing
and sits with wise men
becomes a mockery.

-House Kvall saying

[member="Lady Kay"] recanted, a meek apology,​

Stone-faced Jor stood in silence.​

Wrongly were his words taken.​

Twice was now thrice, together with [member="Krest"]​

beneath a faint firmament, fair moon glowing.​

​

Kvall kept silent on Commenor's fate​

He cared not for any cunning, concerning these foreigners.​

But certain Sith, swarming as they were inside,​

could be a cause in common, contempt by all parties.​

​

Jor's ice eyes fell upon Krest, immersed in blue,​

and he answered the alien.​

​

"I'm no one's guard tonight. I simply thought I'd find more sympathetic ears out here."​

 

[Fiolette Fortan]

Galidraan​

---

---

---

​

---

Blakeslee Falls Estate​

Ballroom | First Floor​

[member="Taeli Raaf"] | Mingling with [member="Darth Carnifex"] | [member="Darth Prazutis"] | [member="Vilaz Munin"]​

In the Vicinity: [member="Vaylin"] | [member="Darth Maliphant"] | [member="Nilia Saavilin"] ​

[member="Vestille Thumahra"] | [member="Adara Raxis"] | [member="Invicta Zambrano"] | [member="Kaine Australis"]​

​

​

​

​

"Thank you," Fiolette replied to the Shadow Hand upon his compliment to both Taeli and herself. The last she had seen of the man they were in the midst of dealing with an eldritch horror from another realm. Right afterward, however, her attention had been drawn to the Warmaster, he spoke of Fondor and the woman gave him a nod of respect. She took a moment to address him before he departed, "you have my thanks Warmaster. I quite appreciate the help your men provided, the operation would surely not have been as successful as it was without them." A small pause, as her Admiral's uniform, seemed to tighten as she moved a step to the side to speak further. "If there is another opportunity for our forces to work together then I shall endeavor to include you in such."

It was then that the young Adara could be both seen and heard. What an event she supposed while tucking away the old Galidraani habits in her mind. "You look so wonderful this evening my darling." Fiolette complimented the child in her crimson gown. "Oh well, thank you, Adara. Aunt Taeli and I are so happy to see you." It was only a matter of time before Australis departed but not before the child moved to gain a hug from the Shadow Hand of all men. What a sight she supposed, but it was as the Warmaster made his departure that Vilaz spoke venom. Inwardly, the redhead sighed and as she heard the words of caution from her beloved. Fiolette gave Vilaz a look of caution, for she knew what her beloved would do to the man if her evening was ruined.

And then Adara spoke, again.

"No darling," Fiolette interjected, "trust that it has been handled."

The Galidraani looked over at her beloved Lorrdian, and then to the Emperor. "Indeed it has been so lovely this evening, my thanks to you and the Empresses, your Imperial Majesty."

Taeli did mention that she wanted to dance and the waltz seemed lovely enough, so the woman quietly interjected once more and looped her arm with the Lady of Secrets. A bow of respect to the Emperor and the Shadow Hand, "if you will excuse us." It was Fiolette's turn to guide the couple and this time it would be to the dance floor. The situation with Munin and Australis was more than handled and a gaze over at the Empresses reassured the woman that the evening would continue to run smoothly.

"You did say that you wanted to dance," Fiolette whispered as she leaned to speak into Taeli's ear. "And what a lovely waltz this is."

 

[Preliat Mantis]

"Strike down the Jedi and leave the soldiers pondering your indifference to them.

Upper Floor​

Kyr'am.

Death.

One of the four.

One of the chosen of Mandalore.

He stood over the party, parting the various Imperial officers, and smaller, weak-bodied Sith. Standing at six and a half feet tall, he loomed over most of the Sith, if not towering. Te Veman, the true ones- were here. [member="Vilaz Munin"], [member="Briika Munin"], [member="Koda Fett"], [member="Ronan Vizsla"]- among notable others. They were the only ones that he saw from his perched position. He did not wear his armor. He presented his powerful, cruelly muscled body in a high-collared suit, popular among the Coruscanti elite. Preliat had once been a traveled man, a man of culture.

Now, Preliat was a man of violence and anger.

He adjusted his cuff links, stopping to look down at [member="Adara Raxis"] and [member="Yasha Mantis"] in the distance.

The Wolf narrowed his eyes.

The balcony's air was refreshing, cooler and less stuffy. And the distinct smell of desperation and ass-kissery lifted from his nostrils. He looked over at Koda Fett. He fetched a drink, some bubbling concoction- hardly befitting a man who basically drank engine cleaner by the pint.

He looked out into the night, speaking cordially to the infamous Bounty Hunter.

"Good evening."

He raised his glass in respect for the man.

"I see the Sith have forgotten to sweep the dirt before they started the party."

He took a cordial, polite sip. Preliat, a man capable of such brutal, terrible violence- calmly sipping a bubbling drink was a sight to behold. As if the Grim Reaper himself decided to put on a suit, and mingle with the mortals. Preliat had that air about him, always. Of death.

"Perhaps it came off of your boots."