Public The Grand Reception

[Lodd Grimmin]

Cato Neimoidia | Trade Federation Palace

​

Dressed in majestic blue robes adorned with detailed designs symbolizing heritage and authority, Lodd Grimmin positioned himself at the center of the grand reception hall in the Trade Federation Palace. The opulent room showcased the skillful artistry of the Neimoidians, featuring walls embellished with intricate gold decorations and floors shining with smooth marble surfaces.

Elegant crystal chandeliers suspended from above, illuminating the room with a soft radiance that enveloped the gathered dignitaries and merchants honoring the newly appointed Trade Monarch.

As guests mingled, the air buzzed with conversations in a multitude of languages, echoing the diversity of the galactic trade routes. Ambassadors from distant systems exchanged pleasantries with corporate tycoons, while representatives of minor guilds sought alliances with influential financiers. Each interaction carried with it the weight of potential profit or political favor, the currency of power in the galaxy.

" The Trade Monarchy of Neimoidia extends a warm invitation to all attendees of this grand event. We are eager to strengthen our relationships with the Galactic Alliance and other influential entities in the galaxy " Lodd Grimmin said before moving through the crowd with grace, his entourage of advisors and Neimoidian Royal Guards following in his wake like a silent shadow.

His demeanor was composed yet inscrutable, revealing little of his thoughts as he engaged in polite discourse with attendees. He spoke in measured tones, his words laden with diplomatic finesse and underlying authority, conveying a sense of assurance that resonated with those around him.

The reception was not merely a display of wealth and influence; it was a stage for subtle negotiations and strategic alliances. Behind closed doors and amidst whispered conversations, deals were brokered and agreements forged that would ripple through the economic tapestry of the galaxy. Lodd Grimmin's ascension to Trade Monarch had sparked a renewed interest in the Trade Federation of Planets, and ambitious opportunists sought to capitalize on the shifting currents of power.

 

[Darth Carnifex]

The robed figure moved as though a phantom, pushing through a crowd which parted before Him like water. Their perceptions had been altered, they could not become cognizant of the shadowy presence until He deemed them worthy. In His passing, they would withdraw to where they had been standing moments before, completely unaware they had been moved without their volition. The veiled man did not deign them with more than that, for all creatures were beneath His notice unless otherwise graced by His gaze.

But the newly minted Trade Monarch could see Him, bearing witness to the shadow that so insidiously encroached upon the gathering. His guards would not, however, a gap in their perception causing an uncomfortable dissonance in their minds the longer their gaze held upon where He stood; where they would see nothing but distorted air.

The black veil gently adhered to the contour of His face, the vague outline of nose, cheek, and chin visible at the right angle. But from the front, it was only a shroud of blackness; faintly illuminated from behind by the glow of His brilliant eyes. The cloak that was thrown about His shoulders hung to the floor, and rendered what sihlouette He had into little more than an amorphous shape. What lay beneath was a mystery, for the Dark Lord of the Sith was ever enigmatic of late.

"Many congratulations are extended, your Excellency. There is no one more suited to such a position." The Dark Lord's words were blackened honey to the ear. "Every purse world should throw themselves at your feet, if they knew better than their nature allowed." In the eyes of the Sith, every power dynamic was functionally master-slave. Lodd Grimmin was now the Trade Monarch, the master, and all the worlds of Neimoidia were now his to command, the slave.

"I presume all fairs well?"

Lodd Grimmin ​

 

[Lodd Grimmin]

Cato Neimoidia | Trade Federation Palace
Darth Carnifex

​

Lodd sensed a change in the air, as it started to warp and wrap around the Trade Monarch's entourage, creating a dense and oppressive fog that left them bewildered. Eyes were left little time to glnace around at the crowds of bankers, merchants and petty lords of distant systems as the phantom materialized right in front of them, a dark and imposing figure that exuded an aura that commanded both fear and reverence, leading to even the most battle hardened of the Neimoidian Royal Guards to back away in shear terror.

He exhibited less fear compared to his companions, sensing a certain familiarity in the darkness, a sensation that was validated when the shroud of shadows dissipated, revealing the visage of the Sith Dark Lord and Twice-Emperor, Darth Carnifex. An intimate associate of the Trade Federation and head of the Kainate, a powerful political and military bloc of the Sith Order whose sphere of influence was finally connecting to the Galactic Alliance.

The conflict between the two dominant forces was inevitable, and the Trade Federation had made sure to align with both parties to survive should the galaxy have a new superstate.

"I agree with you, Lord Carnifex. Similar to the Sith in some ways, the Neimoidians are constantly seeking to improve their own standing, even if it means undermining mine. Neimoidia and its Purse Worlds will come into alignment once they understand that collaborating with me will be more advantageous than working against me." Lodd displayed a gesture of respect by bowing down as the Dark Lord conveyed the message that the Purse Worlds were expected to submit to his authority, acknowledging him as their ruler. Nevertheless, due to the inherent traits of his species, executing this directive would prove to be a challenging task.

"Fair as they can be, but we have noted that the Sith Order have reached the frontiers of the Galactic Alliance with your takeover of Sullust. Is there a military campaign in the pipe lines?" A simple question but one of vital importance to the New Monarch, since the Neimoidians relied on the openness of the Trade Routes, routes that will be closed with any Sith Offensive into the Core Region. Perhaps the Trade Federation could send an envoy to ensure their freighters could pass through unopposed.

 

[Makai Dashiell]

TRADE FEDERATION PALACE

Wearing \ Gear : X | X | X | X | X
Interacting With : OPEN

Somehow, he was always stuck with the Trade Federation. He wondered if the universe was testing him in some odd shape or fashion. His appearance was merely a chance of drawing a short straw. His father, Judah Dashiell , busy. His mother in law, Danger Arceneau , busy. His wife? Busy and in no real condition to travel and be on her feet like this after a long day. Not for a party.

Yet, someone had to make an appearance for the Dashiells and Arceneaus. Hence his short straw. He really should have brought along his mother, at least maybe they could have gossiped together.

A deep breath as he grabbed a whisky from the bar, taking in the guests. He had easily spotted Darth Carnifex talking up the new Monarch, Lodd Grimmin .An odd thing too, in his opinion. He had been at the Fantasia Gala and had seen a spouse of Carnifex speaking to the Trade Federation. By the way they sulked off it hadn't seemed like good news.

Perhaps a re-negotiation? Still, something was brewing there. He personally hadn't seen Carnifex involved in corporate life until recently, although the man was a friend of his mother-in-law. Perhaps the man had a business or interests he wasn't aware of.

A mental shrug as he kicked it out of his mind.

 

[Diodoros]

Location: Cato Neimoidia
Tag(s): OPEN
Tunes: X

Sometimes getting his big break back from the Hutts was an amazing boon, sometimes it was an annoying boon. One of Diodoros’s old sponsors back on Nar Shaddaa had called in a favor with the former gladiator. The slug wasn’t a particularly large member of their species, and was quite young, the offspring of a much more powerful cartel leader. In Fact the golden brute out massed the Hutt in this particular instance. Acting as a bit of a plus one and guard. This was the first time the Firrerreo visited Cato Neimoidia. He found the hanging cities to be rather interesting.

[“Ooo I must admit I do enjoy the company of neimoidians. Even if they can be a bit too stuffy for my liking.”] The young Hutt said in their native language as they slithered next to Diodoros.

[“They got a lot of gold… I like it… I might even want some of it for myself.”] Diodoros replied in fluent huttese with a slight snicker. Flashing a mischievous, toothy grin. [“If I didn’t know better I might think they adorned their decorations with the hide of my people.”] The golden man added. Speaking of hides he wore a large fuzzy overcoat draped over his shoulders, foregoing the use of its sleeves. Choosing to wear it more like a cape. The coat was made of a hide that was often illegal to own in many systems, yet highly prized by trandoshans in particular.

Taking in more of the scenery Diodoros stepped away from the Hutt to look at a rather large and imposing painting. It depicted a rather squat neimoidian riding atop some sort of beast of burden. Adorned in a hat about the size as the rest of their body. Internally the Firrerreo wondered if the sheer size of the portrait might’ve been to compensate for something. But he wasn’t sure what it could be…​

Spoiler

​

 

[Aeson Keel]

Darth Carnifex | Lodd Grimmin

​

Special Agent "Stormblesed" watched the Trade Federation monarch, newly crowned through the scope of his rifle, a smile on his face. Salt and spray, was it his lucky day? Persona non grata Darth Carnifex. With a twist of the nob on his scope he switched on the transcriptor. As the words trailed across his HUD lense he mouthed the words.

"Many congratulations are extended, your Excellency. There is no one more suited to such a position. Every purse world should throw themselves at your feet, if they knew better than their nature allowed. I presume all fairs well?"

"I agree with you, Lord Carnifex. Similar to the Sith in some ways, the Neimoidians are constantly seeking to improve their own standing, even if it means undermining mine. Neimoidia and its Purse Worlds will come into alignment once they understand that collaborating with me will be more advantageous than working against me. Fair as they can be, but we have noted that the Sith Order have reached the frontiers of the Galactic Alliance with your takeover of Sullust. Is there a military campaign in the pipe lines?"

He frowned. His finger caressed the trigger guard, crosshairs on the Sith Lord's skull. How much pain had he caused? Death? Suffering? He was sent here for one mission, but could this action save the galaxy from suffering? His home was a stone's throw away from the greatest storm it had ever seen. Could he end it before it even began?

​

 

[Darth Carnifex]

"That, I cannot say. The Emperor directs his legions as he wishes, it is of no concern to me." It was true, the Emperor Empyrean often did as he so desired with little concern for the opinions of others. As was his right as the Emperor, a position that He once held in time. He was prone to do the same, giving little thought to the wants and needs of others in His Empire; unless they coincided with His own. These days He no longer coveted such a throne, His sight looked to farther horizons.

He tilted His head to the side, eyes appearing to look at an indistinct spot in the distance. "Do you think he will do it?" The question was sudden and didn't seem to flow organically from their conversation, the Dark Lord almost interjecting over the Trade Monarch's next words. "His mind races, his heartbeat threatens to quicken. He's weighing the options right now, the calculations of probability. Will discipline win the day? Or will impulse? He thinks to himself, 'With a single decision I could alter the trajectory of fate, I could avenge them'."

A smile parted the Dark Lord's lips, hidden beneath His black veil. Then a throaty chuckle. "Doesn't he know? Not one thing he does can alter the fate of all. The doom is already writ."

Lodd Grimmin | Aeson Keel ​

 

[Ivalyn Yvarro]

Ivalyn Yvarro was a long way from home, but she had good reason to be. It was prudent to be in person to congratulate Lodd Grimmin on his ascension to Trade Monarch. Just as the grand parties were back home, the one here on Cato Neimoidia did not disappoint, as opulent and luxurious as any Dosuunian ball. The Representative of the Commonwealth had thus far enjoyed the festivities, basking in the splendor of the occasion, and was eager to congratulate the Neimoidian as soon as she was able.

Ivalyn felt a sense of pride and satisfaction as she navigated the elegant ballroom. Her deep crimson gown, adorned with intricate gold embroidery and delicate beadwork, flowed gracefully around her. Her hair was elegantly styled in an intricate updo, adorned with sparkling hairpins that caught the light with every turn of her head.

As she mingled with the guests, Ivalyn's eyes caught the sight of Darth Carnifex , another figure she had come to know in recent days and weeks. His imposing presence was impossible to miss, and she noted the aura of authority that surrounded him. However, her primary focus remained on Lodd Grimmin , the newly minted Trade Monarch. Grimmin had been instrumental in aiding the Commonwealth's economic deals with the Sith, a partnership that had strengthened their mutual interests significantly.

Ivalyn's mood was a blend of anticipation and contentment. She felt the importance of her presence here, not just as a representative of the Commonwealth but also as an individual who had fostered these crucial alliances. The grandeur of the event, with its lavish decorations and sophisticated ambiance, was a testament to the Neimoidian's capabilities and vision. It reminded her of the similar events back in Dosuun, filled with power players and influential figures, each gathering to celebrate and forge new paths.

As she made her way through the sea of dignitaries, exchanging pleasantries and polite nods, Ivalyn's thoughts briefly drifted to the Commonwealth. She felt a deep connection to her homeland, and being here reinforced her commitment to its future. The Commonwealth's prosperity was tied to these alliances, and she was determined to see them flourish.

The Dosuunian got a look around the room and spotted a somewhat familiar face with Makai Dashiell . She hadn't quite the opportunity to talk with him one on one, but had a passing hello at the Gala. She didn't recognize anyone else at the event, but then the night was still young and perhaps she might make a few more alliances and deals while she was there.

Finally, she saw her opportunity. Lodd Grimmin stood at the center of a small group, his presence commanding attention. With a graceful smile, Ivalyn approached, ready to extend her heartfelt congratulations and to celebrate this monumental achievement. As she inched closer to the pair, the Dosuunian was able to pick up on bits and pieces of the conversation. The daughter of Djorn Bline maintained her own facade. She cleared her throat politely, "your Excellency, congratulations." She said to him warmly and then greeted the Dark Lord, "evening Darth Carnifex, a pleasure to see you." Her family had known Carnifex's for decades by that point. Unknowingly she had intruded on something deeper in the works. "I wanted to offer you not just my own congratulations but a congratulations on behalf of the Dosuunian Commonwealth."

"A splendid evening thus far."

Aeson Keel ​

 

[Lodd Grimmin]

Cato Neimoidia | Trade Federation Palace
Darth Carnifex Ivalyn Yvarro

​

"Unfortunate" The Senator could only utter a single word upon hearing such dreadful news, that even the the Great Emperor Darth Carnifex was unable to provide any insight into the future actions of the Sith Order. From a strategic perspective, it would make sense for the Sith to move their main battle fleet up the hyperspace lane towards the Alliance Capital of Fondor, which was highly defended but not invulnerable to a surprise offensive.

The Dark Lord's sudden change in conversation caught him by surprise, leading to a rather unusual question for such a grand event. His bug-like eyes darted around in panic as the new Trade Monarch frantically searched for the cause of the disruption ( Aeson Keel ), but found nothing.

"I...I...I am not sure but it would be foolish...foolish to try...try..try anything on a Trade Fed-Federation planet." Lodd responded, trembling with fear and managing to utter a few hesitant words. Cato Neimoidia was under the control of the Trade Federation of Planets, and only a fool would dare to disrupt the ceremony.

The Neimoidian's paranoia momentarily subsided when the Representative of the Commonwealth, Ivalyn Yvarro, appeared to deliver a personal and diplomatic congratulatory message for his rise to the position of Trade Monarch.. The Neimoidian accepted the message graciously, responding with a gentle smile as they proceeded to speak once more.

"A-A-Ah. Represenative Yvarro, we are honored by your presence. We are glad that you are enjoying the ceremony, have you been to the other bridge-cities nearby such as Tarko-se, home of the infamous Tarko-se Arena?." Despite feeling fearful of an assassination attempt, Lodd was able to articulate a few words. The Commonwealth was an important partner to the Trade Federation and making them feel welcome was part of a broader foreign policy designed to cement their position as one of the more important systems within the Galactic Alliance.

 

[Sentapoth Findos]

Makai Dashiell

The Neimoidian navigated through the expanding assembly of intergalactic delegates, traders, financial leaders, and occasionally encountering Force-sensitive individuals within the Trade Federation Palace. The selection of the Trade Monarch marked a significant event for the Purse Worlds, elevating them to a prominent system status within the Galactic Alliance comparable to the likes of Kuat, Corellia and Alderaan.

Sentapoth rarely had the privilege of going back to his home, as he had unexpectedly risen to the rank of General in the Trade Federation after rescuing a trade delegation from Rothana. Leading a large army was not his forte, but he had a good grasp of the fundamentals and heavily depended on the guidance and suggestions of tactical droid units. He had hoped to congratulate the new Monarch but they were preoccupied with the affairs of foreign delegates.

So he settled on approaching Makai Dashiell of Salacia Consolidated, well-respected figure known for his diplomatic skills and vast network of connections.

"Greetings, Mr. Dashiell. I am General Sentapoth Findos of the Trade Defense Forces. Are you enjoying the ceremony?" There was some hope that by building a positive relationship with Makai, he could gain access to a wider circle of influential individuals within the galaxy. Naturally to increase his own standing within the Neimoidian community.

 

[Tertius C. Nargath]

Location: Trade Federation Palace
Equipment: -
Tags: OPEN

Considering his closer ties with the Trade Federation as of late, the Marquis of House Nargath and Chairman of the Nargath and Zanareth Umbrella Corporation would have been remiss if he did not pay his respects and offer his congratulations to a man whose position as monarch of the Nemoidian planetary group may very well end up being a boon for the corporate spider.

However, something was holding him back, when the frshly acclaimed monarch was being approached by what the Corporate Spider could only describe as an all encompassing shadow, a void within the grand hall. Even after blinking several times, the Marquis could not get a proper view, a proper sight on this veritable shadow which had crossed the hall right in front of him. Confused and somewhat flustered by the feeling of dread narrowly overwhelming him, Tertius went over to the bar to get himself some liquid courage in the form of a glass of the finest corellian brandy. When he had taken a sip from this liquor, the alcohol burning in his throat and stabilizing his mind, Tertius looked around in order to make sure he wasn't missing something.

It was the second time he had felt so overwhelmed by a person's mere presence, something he probably had to work on. It also happened during the festivities on Dosuun, at the gala of the Commonwealth. Annoyed by the fact it was the second time this had happened, the Marquis gulped down the remainder of his drink, straightened his crevatte and dusted off his sleeves, pulled his cufflinks correctly and started making his way towards the Monarch, intent on at the very least giving the Nemoidian a proper greeting.

As soon as the Eriaduan aristocrat got near Lodd Grimmin , he slid both his feet together and made a courteous bow towards the monarch, only to once again feel that same dread running over him, he kept his eyes on the Nemoidian monarch, curious if it was him that was making him feel this strange urge to get the hell out of dodge, but refraining himself from doing so, the Marquis simply nodded politely and with reverance to Darth Carnifex and the lady Ivalyn Yvarro .

"Congratulations on your ascension, your Highness," Raising himself back to his full height and keeping his back straight, the Eriaduan took a deep breath, calmly nodding once more towards the other present near the monarch with a gentle smile. "I wish you many proper deals and contracts to fill your coffers and vaults."

 

[Makai Dashiell]

TRADE FEDERATION PALACE

Wearing \ Gear : X | X | X | X | X
Interacting With : General Sentapoth Findos

Sipping his whisky, Makai was taking in the crowd. He spotted Ivalyn Yvarro ,having a very brief interaction with the woman during the Fantasia Gala in the Commonwealth. There was a mental note to greet her later, his father did business with her and it was only right to show his face and check in. Especially since he was representing the business tonight.

An adjustment of his glasses, still trying to get used to the spectacles, when General Sentapoth Findos greeted him. An odd person to greet him, but it was a Trade Federation party after all, and any General, Admiral, and Governor would be wise to make appearances tonight.

His freehand outstretched in greeting.

"A pleasure to meet you General Sentapoth." If he remembered correctly, Nemodian last names came first. If not, a correction would be sure to follow. "How goes the war in the Core and defensive efforts in Federation territory? I am positive you have been a very busy man these last few months.I hope you've been well considering?"

Small talk. Danger Arceneau was on his ass about it.Time to try to make his mother-in-law proud.

 

[Sentapoth Findos]

Makai Dashiell

The Neimoidian General reached for a glass of water from a passing servant droid, before returning fully to the conversation. Offering an attentive ear, as the young leader of Salacia Consolidated engaged in casual conversation with him, curious about the Core War and the defensive tactics being employed by the Trade Federation to protect their claimed territory of Neimoidia, Skako and others within the galaxy.

The intricacies of strategic planning during periods of conflict proved to be extensive, leaving the purported general feeling perplexed about the idea of actually engaging in warfare and putting himself in harms way. His promotion was rather a stroke of luck, considering that he lacked a deep understanding of tactical maneuvers, relying solely on the guidance and suggestions of his subordinates who merely relied on programming to achieve results.

"An Excellent question..a very good question..." Sentapoth began to speak, taking a moment to gather his thoughts in order to respond appropriately to the young man. He was keen on avoiding any embarrassment in front of such a significant visitor, yet he found himself ill-prepared for the discussion at hand.

"It appears that the Imperial Offensive is showing signs of weakening, particularly after the Alliance successfully repelled them on Coruscant, As for the purse worlds, we are actively...actively...using the Neimoidian Shipyards to increase production of warships " Sentapoth finally managed to articulate, hoping to provide a satisfactory response to the inquiry while taking more and more sips from the glass of water to calm his nerves.

 

[Ivalyn Yvarro]

"I am humbled by such words, your grace," Ivalyn responded with a warm smile, and when he asked if she had seen the famous Tarko-se. "I must confess that I have not had the pleasure yet, but you will have to give me a tour at some point. I'm sure there's much I can learn from its architecture." She was always interested in visiting new and interesting cities. The galaxy always benefited from more culture.

Ivalyn only moved closer when the Marquis, if she remembered correctly, joined the conversation. "A pleasure to see you again," she remarked to the Marquis before turning to address the other two. "Your Highness, and Your Grace." Ivalyn gave a respectful nod to both the new Trade Monarch and the Dark Lord. "I'm quite sure we'll all have a chance to converse in private later."

Reasons why she detested being outside of Commonwealth space: there was always a chance something could be misunderstood or lost in translation. She then excused herself to make a holocall.

Ivalyn did indeed make two calls. One was to Merryn Sellek, Chief Operations Officer of Aurora Industries. The second was to someone in the Sith Empire. Once she made herself available for conversation again, she decided to make her way toward Makai Dashiell. He was deep in conversation with someone she did not quite know, at least, not yet.

Makai Dashiell | Sentapoth Findos | Lodd Grimmin ​

 

[Makai Dashiell]

TRADE FEDERATION PALACE

Wearing \ Gear : X | X | X | X | X
Interacting With : General Sentapoth Findos | Ivalyn Yvarro

"Do you truly think they are on the offensive or perhaps laying quiet and trying to entrap opposing forces?"

Makai didn't keep up with galactic politics or movements or saber rattling much. Only when it threatened his business or disrupted the hyperlanes needed for his day-to-day operations. He really should keep a better eye on things, especially when talked turned at these types of events.

"It's good to know your shipyards are running at maximum capacity. I do not know of the Imperial war production output but I do know no one can match the Federation in terms of productivity."

Hopefully he was doing fine with the small talk. It was still a major learning curve. His father used to do most of these things, not him. He had to learn sometime. Eyes caught a semi-familiar face in the crowd, a blonde woman headed in the direction of himself and the General.

"I think we are about to have some company General."

 

[Sentapoth Findos]

Makai Dashiell Ivalyn Yvarro

"Uh...Uh...Uh, The Alliance High Command holds a strong sentiment that there will be no Imperial Offensive in the near future. I concur with their assessment, given my natural inclination towards strategic thinking." The Neimoidian clarified rather confidently, following a brief period of hesitation, in an attempt to reassure Makai that the Dark Empire's ability to initiate additional attacks against the Galactic Alliance was currently hindered.

This was due to the loss of a flagship vessel and one of their high-ranking officers, which would typically incapacitate a conventional military force until suitable replacements could be acquired. It should be noted that this perspective did not originate from the Neimoidian himself, but was rather a statement put forth by the Alliance Defense Force's Press Office to calm the general population after the attack on Coruscant.

"Ye-Yes, the Trade Federation is outputting a record number of starships for the Galactic Alliance." Sentapoth mentioned with a gentle motion, then shifted his gaze towards the person indicated by Dashiell. It appeared that she was a woman of significance, given that they were observed conversing with the New Trade Monarch Lodd Grimmin.

"They seem rather important, very important if they are on the guest list." He made a general observation, taking in another sip of the glass of water.

 

[Valkoryen Sunfell]

THE GRAND RECEPTION

Location: Cato Neimoidia | Trade Federation Palace
Tag(s): Lodd Grimmin | Darth Carnifex | Ivalyn Yvarro | Open
​

Where there was the aftertaste of darkness, the shroud of shadows, there was a source of light. The Galaxy and Force made sure to bring balance, in one way or another. A mechanism without conscience, a will without direction, an executioner without axe. Destiny and fate touched everyone and those trying to break free were pulled back into reality more harshly than they would have liked. Afterall, we just rise and fall. Rise and fall.

The Trade Federation probably had the greatest boom since the Clone Wars, playing the game of credits and economy as well as anyone could. Investments and sanctions offering a leverage which was magnified by having endeared most major powers and players on the galactic stage. To proclaim a Monarch was just logical, a figurehead, a face for the rich few. A spineless scapegoat should business go sour. If anything the corrupt and decadent had their way to remain in power, mindless corporations thirsting for profit would always find new recruits.

With calm and long steps He walked among the guests, His golden eyes gazing across the gathered, offering silent and friendly nods here and there. But the attention was drawn as soon as the veiled figure appeared. Valkoryen did not recognise who it was, for He had never met this disciple of the Dark side, but He could sense and see him. Not physically as the figure intended, but the Force and even the most simple of instincts He had acquired in His life shared it.

"Congratulations Your Grace." Smooth words carried by a calmness and age that seemed not to fit the face framed by long dark hair. Valkoryen was wearing a rather simple attire for His standards and carried Himself with royal grace. He was a polar opposite to the shadowy figure nearby, despite civil garments, the Epicanthix was oozing a sense of Light, of brightness. He looked upon Darth Carnifex with curiosity, not a distant relative, but they shared the blood of Panatha. "Dark Lord." And without further delay added while turning towards Ivalyn Yvarro . "My Lady." Just to see her turning towards another guest.

"I must admit that Your cities and the palace are quite stunning in their architecture and design, the Galaxy offers many marvels. How does the crown feel, if I may ask? Metaphorically speaking." The tall man offered with a soft but seemingly genuinely smile after His gaze wandered around once more before coming to a halt on the Neimodian.

 

[Wynter Rackham]

Wynter Rackham stepped off the shuttle with a confident stride, heading straight into the Grand Reception of the Trade Federation. This celebration of Lodd Grimmin's ascension to Trade Monarch was the perfect place to make new connections for his smuggling operations.

Navigating through the crowded corridors, Rackham soaked in the lavish surroundings. He made his way to the great hall, where the galaxy's elite mingled. His first stop was the buffet table, piled high with exotic foods and drinks. He poured himself a generous measure of Corellian whiskey, savoring the aroma and letting the first sip warm him.

As he scanned the room, Wynter's mind raced with the possibilities. This event was a goldmine for creating new relationships and expanding his network. His eyes flitted across the crowd, noting influential figures and potential allies. He took another sip, feeling the familiar rush of anticipation.

Then, he felt it—a strange presence, something dark and concerning. Wynter couldn't see anyone unusual, but the feeling gnawed at him. Unbeknownst to him, a Sith Lord was hiding in plain sight, masking his presence. Sadly the former Emperor, Darth Carnifex , would have an easy time tricking a smuggler with merely an affinity to the Force. Eventually after a few more glances around the crowd Wynter shrugged off the unease, focusing on the task at hand.

You could only worry so much before it became silly.

It had been a while since he made a move in high society, weaving through the intricate web of politics and commerce, to seize opportunities. But tonight was all about making the right connections and ensuring that Wynter Rackham stayed ahead in the game.

It wasn't possible to always stay in the grimey streets. Sometimes you actually needed to get your hands dirty in a gala like this.

 

[Ivalyn Yvarro]

Ivalyn was partway through greeting Makai and the General when a stranger stopped her. She had no clue who he was and instantly regretted not bringing extra security. "My apologies, you have me at a great disadvantage," she said, feeling very uneasy. She would, however, remember his face and make sure to ask the new Trade Monarch for a manifest of visitors. She wanted to ensure this gentleman's face was on Commonwealth records.

"I appreciate your compliments regarding my humble nation, and I wear no crown, metaphorically or otherwise, but once more, I appreciate your comments. If you'll excuse me." She exhaled with relief once she was past him. Ivalyn would certainly remember those golden eyes, but being both a Bline and a Yvarro, it wouldn't take but a few shots later on to hopefully suppress the memory.

With a smile on her face, she warmly greeted Makai and the other Neimoidian. "Makai, yes?" Ivalyn offered her hand, and then turned. "Well met, Ivalyn Yvarro, Representative of the Dosuunian Commonwealth." She waited a beat for him to introduce himself.

"A rather fine event so far," complimented Ivalyn.

Makai Dashiell | Sentapoth Findos | Valkoryen Sunfell ​

 

[Makai Dashiell]

Wearing \ Gear : X | X | X | X | X
Interacting With : General Sentapoth Findos | Ivalyn Yvarro

"She's a leader in the Commonwealth government."

Makai was commenting to the General, watching the blonde move their way. He didn't know quite what her role was int he government; he hadn't remembered since the Fantasia Gala, but it was a high and prominent position.Naturally, as the General commented, they had to be to get on this guest list.

Eyes narrowed as she was stopped by a man he had never seen before ( Valkoryen Sunfell ), and it looked as if the blonde was uncomfortable. About to excuse himself from the General to assist, she managed to escape and move towards himself and the Neimoidian.

"Miss Yvarro." Makai took her hand and drew closer, kissing her on the cheek. He lingered a moment to speak low, a highly unusual move for himself. His tone was but a whisper, so the guests wouldn't over hear. "If you need an escort out later, just say the word."

Breaking away from the blonde, he introduced the Neimoidian he had been chatting with.

"Miss Yvarro, General Sentapoth Fidos. We've been discussing the mess in the Core worlds. The General thinks things look favorable."