Dominion The Masquerade | EE Dominion of Empty Hex

[Tovald Kahmen’’a]

Wearing: Outfit/Mask
Weaponry: None
Tags: Open

The music had a soothing effect, of course, it would it’s a waltz. But then, he noticed a wriggling in his jacket pocket and a very small white fluffy Loong Cat poked his head out. He must have found his way there looking for a place to nap. A cosy pocket is perfect, it’s small and secure, cats like to be safe.

Ah, it’s nice to have company. He wanted to mingle but he had no idea where to start. Oh, Hutt had just arrived, well, they aren’t hard to miss, even a near-sighted Gran could spot one. But the Hutt looked busy so better not risk any wrath tonight by going up and interrupting.

Tovald can dance and dance well, but this is the first actual Ball he has been to in years. But he needs a Dance Partner first above all. He could dance on his own too. The last time he went to something like this was when he got married. Everyone turned out for the event and even Diocletian behaved rationally or as rationally as he could be on any given day.

<“No, not objective, activity, this isn’t a mission or a battle.”> He corrected himself as he shared the cocktail meats with his feline companion. The snowy fur contrasting beautifully with his jacket and waistcoat. He was sure there were no rules on having furry companions, at least not when he first read them at least. Who can say no to such a sweet face?

The Champagne was good too, but the bubbles got in his nose and tickled it. He barely stifled a sneeze. He flagged down a waiter and ordered a bottle of red wine for himself, if anyone wants to join him, he has a second glass ready.

 

[Arturo Braga]

Wearing: Outfit and Mask
Interacting with: Stardust Solus Skirae

Standing off to one side of the room, Arturo took a quick glance around before pulling down his mask. It turned out the champagne was just as good as he'd expected; even better, very few people saw his face. Not that it would take much for people to figure out who I am wearing this, the Underboss thought, pulling his mask back up before anyone thought to take a closer look at the mysterious man in the corner. If anyone asked, Arturo would tell them he was a contractor for the Empire. He wouldn't be lying, not entirely. He just wouldn't be telling the whole truth.

Same thing, really.

Navigating his way slowly through the crowds, Arturo did his best to take the lay of the land. Though he wasn't here in an official capacity, whatever he chose to do- whomever he chose to talk to would not only reflect his own interests but the interests of Broka too. He had to be careful in that regard; the Black Sun might have been friends of the Empire, but that didn't mean everyone here was friendly. In fact, quite the opposite. Best stay low, then, the mercenary thought, not realizing it was far too late for that until a figure stepped up beside him.

interesting mask for this type of event, certainly a eye catcher no?

Watching the stranger out of the corner of his eye, Arturo couldn't but smile at her words. "I like to think so." He replied, his voice only slightly muffled by the black oni mask. Shifting his gaze, the mercenary did his best not to look surprised as he took in what he believed to be the tallest Twi'lek he'd ever seen. The dress of flames only accentuated her height, and even with the mask, Arturo could tell the woman was beautiful. Older, too. Had she been twenty years younger, the Underboss might've been tempted to try his luck. As was, the only thing he could hope for was to not say something that would get him flattened.

He knew a warrior when he saw one, after all.

then again I guess I stick out so I can't really say much at all

"I suppose that's true. The dress is rather eye-catching." Arturo said, returning the grin. They both knew it wasn't her dress turning heads, but he wasn't about to say as much. "If it's any consolation, most of the eyes in this room are on the Hutt over there." Waving his champagne flute in Credit Wizard 's general direction, Arturo said, "Never have I seen a Hutt with such... style." He was only half-serious.

 

[Eleena Salwa]

Location: Ballroom, Castle
Attire: XxX │ XxxX │ xX
Direct Interaction: Trinity Harris

This was sure to be a night to remember.

Eleena bashfully covered her mouth at the woman’s compliments, blush showing up quite easily on the strand-cast’s pale white features as the scientist-racer accepted her extended hand. She initially wondered how the woman could have recognized, though it wasn’t completely implausible in a place like this. The Twi’lek had her own share of accomplishments, having built up a mild reputation as a jet swoop ace after sorties on Vorral, Generis, Abridon, and Riflor, though she doubted it was enough for her to be recognized at an event like this. Otherwise, she had scored a second place-podium at the Kalidan Fried Ewok 450, as much as she cringed at the thought of being moderately famous for having partaken in a cartel-sponsored race. To say the least, she’d much rather be known as a war heroine and a swoop ace.

“Secret identities?” Eleena said, a single, high-arched eyebrow raising slightly in question. “I think the masks are just for...theme or aesthetic.” She continued. “I’m still me!”

"I would love to take a picture with you, it's Trin by the way. Do you race? I feel like I have seen you before but I can't place you?"

“Oh, I do!” Eleena beamed at the woman’s acceptance of her request. “But, I’m not like...a pro or anything, like you are. I do it mainly for training. I’m actually a jet swoop pilot in the Thunder Corps, so going fast is really only a means to an end for me.” The Twi’lek answered, expecting that the scientist might implicitly understand what that end was. “Although...I might try and do it professionally when or well...if, I retire.” She added.

“I’m Eleena Salwa, by the way.” The swoop ace introduced herself, a beaming grin laid bare across her features. Then, the two women began to take pictures, including one silly one and more than a few sexy ones. In such nice dresses, it would quite simply have been a waste not to.

After they finished, Eleena giggled at the complement to her dress, raising her arms as she twirled her hips to show off the outfit and perhaps, a bit more.

“Aww, thank you! Tactical is quite a good word for it, though believe it or not, the whole thing was literally as cheap as it looks!” She teased. “The military discounts are a blessing, you would not believe it! But, I have to say that your dress is just as cute and I adore the feathers on your mask!” Eleena replied, her voice rising and falling in an upper-class lilt, unconsciously mimicking the guests at the event. “I can do a lot of colors, but I’m not sure I could pull off a dark green like you can!”

 

[Eina L'lerim-Vandiir]

Eina L’lerim-Vandiir, the First
Princess of the Eternal Empire and Terraris; Angelic mascot and representative of the Ashlan Crusade
Matriarch of the Valkyrja; Leader of Sanctuary; Liaison of the Fjölkyngi Smiðr Guild​

Location: Gardens, Castle
Objective III.: Try to avoid the too awkward situations.
Equipment: Elegant attire | Mask || Empyrean gland | OPBC-01m
Writing With:: Geiseric | Ro-Tahn Mashayekhi (planned)

[ Hijo de la Luna ]
<"High Nelvaanian"> | ~ telepathic communication ~ | << comm. channel >> ​

"Lord Tubrok declined the invitation when he learned that the leaders of the Vexilium would be here… And Adrian hates being in the centre of other people’s attention in a place like this. It's true, I don't like it either and I don't understand why it's good, but since you're here, I already feel it was worth it to accompany the Empress!" she said with a smile.

Her voice, as usual when she talked to the man, was kind and caring. She loved and enjoyed Geiseric's company, and she considered the man as a friend, or perhaps that was the best word of what mortals used to describe this. If Eina accidentally acted or spoke what others might have thought was flirting, romantic situation or similar, Valkyrja did not do so intentionally, it all came from that she was kind and pure. She didn't understand flirting, love, or attachments like that.

"Or did you think why I'm here with you now?" she asked, a little embarrassed, inadvertently blushing a little at the praise. "Thanks! I think… This uniform is also very fit for you. It's unusual, but you look good in it!" she said genuinely.

By now she knew this was hard for both of them. Since she was a Valkyrja, Eina is accustomed to being honest, telling others, making them feel what she thinks, feeling, and getting this from her peers as well. It was hard for her to get used to the fact that mortals like to keep secrets from each other. So maybe at times she might have seemed too honest or naive. And what she found is that the man has a hard time expressing these things and has a hard time talking about things like that.

"I don't really know how to behave here. I feel naked without my armour and weapons. At home, such gatherings are very different. And I don’t know if it’s appropriate that we’re here alone, like that. When I came here, I saw others… every couple doing intimate things in the shadows of the garden. I don't want you to be in an awkward position because of me and my presence." she said, a little confused, which may be ironic in light of whose soul she was born of…

 

[Trinity Harris]

Spoiler: Equipment and links

Ship: Luminary class light explorer exchanging crew space for biolabs

Spoiler: wearing

Interacting with: Eleena Salwa

As Eleena twirled, Trinity took a good look with a smile on her face, "that looks so good on you, and with your skin tone too. My dress was way too expensive for my tastes, and the guy insisted that I had to but the matching lingerie to complete the outfit, which between you and me is certainly not for the wearer's benefit and I cannot wait get out of it." She smiled and blushed a little, possibly an overshare there. She was feeling more relaxed though Interacting with the bubbly little twi'lek.

"So you are a military pilot? Keeping us civis safe while streaking through the air at a thousand miles per hour, I can drink to both of those things, and she raised a glass." She had a lot of respect for the military, sciences like hers could only flourish during times of stability, and the soldiers provided that.

"I'm not a pro-racer any more, which is a shame, I loved it in university. I did try to continue and go on the event circuit after uni, but it becomes all about the force users and the augmented." She smiled an 'oh well' kind of smile. "I mean, I have nothing against genetically enhanced creatures, if I have children, that's the way I would go, but it does make things tricky to compete if you don't have it".

She truly missed her racing days, now her only opportunity to feel that kind of speed was on field exercises like Reelin, being able to thrash her speeder bike across the open plains and the sea in the aim of doing her work, but it wasn't the same.

"You should sneak us on one of your fighters" she laughed "I would love to get out there racing again, I can't think of many things that matches the thrill of flying feet above the ground at 500mph with nothing but your wits and the speeder bike between your legs"

She finished her drink and reached for another glass, grabbing one for Eleena too, Eleena didn't appear to be drinking but it would be rude not too and she hoped to enjoy more of her company.

 

[Ingrid L'lerim]

Lady Ingrid L’lerim Ragal Terassi Vandiir
Eternal Empress of the Eternal Empire, Lord Commander of the Wardens of the Shroud, Archon of the Primyn Group
Empress of Terraris, Supreme Commander of the Terraris Command, Head of the House L’lerim, CEO of the HPI Consortium​

Location: Ball room, Castle
Objective I.: Try to having fun.
Equipment: Elegant attire | Mask | The Last Gift || Empyrean gland | OPBC-01m
Tag(s): Cass Gemini | Malanves Lagrange | Aximand Sicarus | Adenn Kyramud | Laertia Io | Open

[ Hijo de la Luna ]
<"High Nelvaanian language"> | ~ telepathic communication ~ ​

Ingrid was still alone when someone approached her. She examined the woman so that nothing could be noticed from this. It is no coincidence that the Empress was a good spy and agent. However, she raised an eyebrow at the question. She had never seen the woman before, on the other hand, for a woman, such topics only came up with those close to her. She didn’t have a habit of talking to others about clothes unless she had to because she was working.

"Excuse me?" she asked in an ice-cold, military voice, and her posture also became so in an instant, to the military. "I’m sure we don’t know each other enough to talk about topics like this … miss?"

The Empress was well known for letting almost no one close to her, almost always ice-cold, aloof and military. She behaved directly with only a handful of people, but also almost always only in private. Meanwhile, the woman saw countless acquaintances among those present. She caught Malanves Lagrange 's gaze and nodded measuredly at the man. Then Aximand Sicarus had the opportunity to go there as well. She got to know him, nodded to him as well.

<"Commodore! Welcome! I didn’t think you liked events like this."> she said.

Ebony Ambrosia may have noticed something, as she was partly similar to the Empress. There is nothing to occupy, she cannot possess the woman's body, for the body was the empress herself. For Ingrid was a semi-Force Entity, made up almost entirely of the Force, and there was something else ancient and something else in it. Since Ebony came from the Nether, she could feel that the woman was part of the Nether; not as a resident, not just belonging to there, she was similar to Voracitos, specifically she was part of the Netherworld, just like the sith Lord.

Moments later, she noticed someone she was eager to talk to, Adenn Kyramud . The man was a legend among the Mandalorians. Because of the alliance with them, it would have been good to talk to him. She looked at the man, when she caught his eye, Ingrid discreetly signalled to him to come closer, then the woman addressed him.

"Su cuy'gar, Adenn Kyramund!" she said with a respectful voice, then continued in Mandalorian and held out her hand. "It is an honour to meet you!"

Meanwhile, a woman in a rather fancy dress walked over to her. No, the woman didn't get a message, Cal didn't let her be bothered like that by anyone today.

"They have not informed me, and I am not dealing with any state affairs today, Lady Draco. Admiral Osborn is on duty, Lord Osborn enjoys my full confidence. Please talk to him about this. You will find him on the flagship if you really want to deal with this, instead of an official ball." she said in her usual voice, though she was curious, she really didn’t want to deal with that sort of thing today.

 

[Eleena Salwa]

Location: Ballroom, Castle
Attire: XxX │ XxxX │ xX
Direct Interaction: Trinity Harris

“Matching lingerie? Girl, I would have just...opted out, even with the discount!” Eleena said with a coy giggle, her features practically exploding with pink blush as she did. “Between that and the price, it looks like I got the easier of our outfits!” She added.

Seeing the woman raise her glass at her military service, Eleena felt a tinge of embarrassment. Ultimately, Eleena hadn’t necessarily chosen military life by herself, even if she technically had volunteered to join the Thunder Ultranaut Corps after transferring out of the Wild Hunt, the armed force of the Agents of Chaos which she had been created to fight for. Ultimately, she had joined the Thunder Corps because the military was all she really knew and she wasn’t ready for civilian life yet. The concept of independence, which included renting her own apartment, paying her own bills, making her own decisions, keeping her own affairs in order, and yet more, was still quite scary to her. Unfortunately, she had not yet fully eased into it.

While she very much enjoyed the extremely generous military benefits, being recognized in this manner almost felt unearned.

“Thank you~” The Twi’lek answered gratefully, almost with an uneasy smile. “It’s really just...something I was made for.” She finished, opting to leave it at that, a statement which could be interpreted in many ways that didn’t point to her being a strand-cast.

“The augmented? Well, it looks like I already have a bit of a head start! I had to get mine a while back. Just a basic nervous system enhancement, but I got the biochip recently, as well.” She answered. “As for Force-users...well, that is another debate.” The Twi’lek continued. “Some leagues mandate Void Stone necklaces, since the precog can be an issue. It can’t really be replicated by augs like other things. But…” Eleena cleared her throat. “As I said, that’s not this occasion!” She added with a playful wink.

Pausing for a brief moment, Eleena opted to accept the offered glass, doing so with a smile before taking a cautious sip.

“Feet? On the jet swoops, make those kilometers! It’s a whole different experience. If you have time to take a one or two year-long course, before getting certified, I’ll be glad to take you out for a spin! Otherwise, we can still ride the speeder bikes together.” She said, before taking another, more bold sip.

“I may be forgetting, but what type of bike did you race on? Was it a Phantom? How does it handle? I have a Skychaser I use for training, but I’ve raced it once before. It's a monster down the straights and very good in corners, though it can lose time compared to some of the more nimble prototype bikes in hairpins.”

 

[Aximand Sicarus]

TAG: Cass Gemini Ingrid L'lerim Adenn Kyramud

"You would be correct, My Lord. I must admit I am far more comfortable aboard my flagship than planetside. I suppose I feel more useful there." A wry smile cracked the Wolf's lips, a measure of pride swelling within his breast that his sovereign remembered him. Although Aximand didn't much involve himself in politics, in years past he had earned his reputation under Tacitus' reign, and had come to respect firm resolve & straightforward manner in which he governed. It certainly aided the Commodore's duties, considering Tacitus had little qualms about the methods used to achieve his ends. Service under Empress Vandiir was definitely an adjustment by comparison. While he had never heard her described as a compassionate woman by any means, she seemed to hold to a more stringent moral compass compared to her predecessor. It bemused Aximand slightly in the beginning of her reign, but in some ways he appreciated her reasons for the reforms she spearheaded in Imperial society - not the least of all, treatment of civilians. He couldn't argue with the fact that the overall quality of life had improved for the average Imperial citizen. Given the state of the galaxy, what with the 2nd Hyperspace war still raging across the stars. The Empress had done a remarkable job keeping the Empire uninvolved at present, ever since the conclusion of the Stygian Campaign. The Empire was vastly outnumbered and outgunned, with its only ally being the Sith Empire who was engulfed in the throes of the conflict that gave birth to the New Imperial Order.

Although national fervor was at an all-time high near the outset of the war, public opinion began to wane upon the disappearance of Tacitus and the ascension of L'lerim. Aximand was still a commander at that time, serving under Commodore Jansson in Battlegroup Endeavor; coincidentally the charge of Vice Admiral Malanves Lagrange during that time. It was after a myriad of resignations and internal purges upon Empress L'lerim's efforts to consolidate power that Aximand received his promotion and transfer to the Reclamation fleet, which he attributed primarily to his lack of vocal politicking as opposed to his senior officers. He commended himself well during the remainder of the war, and although she was widely regarded as a less imposing figure within society (at least at first), Ingrid L'lerim had ultimately won the respect of many within the aristocracy and the armed forces at large, including Aximand. To heal the fractured alliance with The Sith Empire, lead the Eternal Empire through a lopsided conflict for nearly 5 years after Tacitus' bloodthirst, and to broker a peace agreement was no small feat. Now, for the past year and a half, the Empire enjoyed peace and stability while the Sith Empire was but a fragment of its former stature. From what Aximand had heard, relations with the Sith had returned to an all-time low, largely due to what had transpired on Panatha. "I am pleased to see that you are well, after the attempt on your life on Panatha, Lord." He didn't know all the details, but Ingrid held enough respect in Aximand's eyes (eye) to make such a thing unthinkable. The Empire needed a leader like Ingrid, that much was for certain given all the she had done for the Empire. In truth, it could be easily said that she saved the Empire from an inevitable demise alongside the Sith. "Excuse me - It's likely obvious that I don't attend these events often, for it appears i need to improve upon my manners." He turned to Commander Aierka, who waited silently alongside the Commodore with a near-starstruck expression on her face.

He nudged her ever so subtly, and continued: "This is my tactical officer, Lt. Commander Janine Aierka. She has wanted to meet you for a long time, my Lord." Janine, who would normally have nudged Aximand back even harder at the mild teasing he gave her, merely curtsied politely to the Ingrid.

"It is a pleasure, my lord." Aximand was unaccustomed to seeing Janine this way. Normally, she held a singular confidence that few could overcome. But now? She appeared as little more than a nobleman's daughter coming to court for the first time. He would be sure to bring this up again when she decided to tease him in the not too distant future. Shortly after their introduction, Aximand turned his attention to Cass Gemini , giving her a polite nod in greeting. Before he could introduce himself, the Empress waved over another figure Adenn Kyramud who was adorned in very unique armor, clearly of Mandalorian design.

'Aden Kyramud' Aximand mused to himself after the Empress greeted him, with far more respect than Aximand would have guessed. Although, such respect was not undeserved. Aximand had not met the Mandalorian personally as of yet, but he knew of the Mandalorian Chieftain by reputation. After the Empress's greeting and the dismissal of another supplicant who approached her for matters of state, the Commodore smiled faintly and greeted the two other guests in turn: "I don't believe I had made either of your acquaintances. Commodore Aximand Sicarus, at your service."

 

[Ivixa Nera'kas]

Location: Ballroom, Castle
Attire: XxX │ XxxX │ xX
Direct Interaction: Tovald Kahmen’’a

Ivixa’s body still hurt from injuries sustained on distant battlefields, but the tiny Blackwatch Agent had decided to attend the ball regardless, opting for a long, crinoline-style dress to better hide the still-healing scars which marred her legs. Unfortunately, high heels were out of the question for the night, in spite of the boost in height they gave her which was always helpful for dancing, albeit at slight expense to her mobility. Instead, she had opted for a pair of flats, which might very well solidify her place as the shortest person in the venue, with the exception of any small children. And yet, her stature belied the nature of her work with Blackwatch, that of subtlety and violence, of which she tended more towards the latter. However, as much as Ivixa wanted to, she couldn’t neglect one in favor of the other.

While her handlers had told her to enjoy herself over the night, she knew also that she was here to observe and perhaps even, beguile. On top of that, she might ensure that everyone was as loyal as they said they were, monitor the movements of certain actors, and keep a vigilant eye on the nobility.

The nobility was always the most dangerous.

Fortunately Ivixa didn’t need to mingle with them, yet. As she entered the ballroom, her ears twitched upon registering the vibrations of a soft purring noise, her eyes following their lead until her gaze came up on a slender, masculine figure clad in a full-faced silver mask and a brown suit of a style she did not recognize. The Looong cat’s snowy white fur was quite distinct against the somewhat drab color of the man’s suit, compelling the Asa’nyx to stare for perhaps a little too long at the adorable feline, even if the creature might have been somewhat out of place at a venue like this.

Just then, her gaze found the blue eyes of the cat’s owner, a soft smile coming across her features before she decided to approach...

 

[Shot Sutaz]

Sutaz was never adept at being formal. However, it was becoming more and more of a necessity as she settled into her newfound wealth. After a successful tech patent deal with the ever wealthy John Locke, she was the new millionaire on the block. This meant that she got invitations to parties like this often. People were quite intent on hopping on the train early should she prove to be good at doubling her money, and some thought she was naïve enough to be cheated out of it because of her young age. She could respect the first kind, but the second? She enjoyed watching them get flustered as she, the supposed child, wasn't as naïve as they hoped.

Part of her would always hate public appearances like this, particularly dressing up since she was still sensitive about the lines on her body caused by cybernetics. It was obvious to anyone she had cybernetics with the lines amongst the tendrils on her head signaling the space between skin and metal. But at least one had to be paying attention to spot it. Sure, people didn't show lots of skin at these parties, but they tended to show off their legs with slit cut dresses. Low cut collars were common too. She couldn't do such things, but she wouldn't be caught dead in one of those puffy overly frilly dresses like some young princess. No, she was proud of her curves, just not the cybernetic lines that crisscrossed her body. She wanted to be both eye catching and hidden at the same time. Luckily, she had the money now to hire experts.

Her heels clacked on the floor as she entered the ballroom, those vibrant lights above reflecting off of her exotic light purple skin. She was eye catching in that regard, uniquely colored for a nautolan. Though, the most distinct part about her was the outfit she'd have made. Normally she wore some sort of bodyglove or suit to hide the cybernetics that ran through her body, so she decided to make something of that nature more suitable for a party. It was simplistic yet emphasized the form she was so proud of. The black bodysuit clung to her curves, but not too tight. She wasn't just a common dancer or the like, this was a classy gathering. The black bodysuit seemed to be some sort of shined leather textured to have diamond shaped scales all across the surface. Her heeled boots were the same, going all the way up to her knees. The bodysuit itself ended at just above her breasts, leaving her collarbone bare. With it, she wore a similarly textured long sleeved jacket that was cut quite short, covering her upper back and going no lower. Purple glowing lights were installed into the outfit, forming circuit board esque textures around the knees, elbows, and the inside of her coats collar, adding to the eye catching nature of her attire. Over her eyes was a modified masquerade mask, specifically, the eyeholes were made bigger to accommodate her eyes. Atop her head, though it didn't match her outfit that well, was a black tophat.

She now stood in the middle of the ballroom, her black eyes scanning the scenery as she stood there, hand upon her hip as she purses her lips in ponderation. Where was who she was looking for? Then, her eyes caught sight of it. The hutt. She grins, showing off her rows of sharp teeth. She was tired of people trying to get her to invest in their companies. It was time to get yet another investor of her own. Thus, heels echoing amongst all the talking in the ballroom, she makes her way over to the hutt, but quite casually. She was in no hurry, nor was she desperate. Looking desperate before a possible investor is the worst thing one can do.

Once before him, she waited for a pause in the conversation he was having with the girl nearby him. Once there was a pause, she gives a bow. "Great Paranoda, Lorda of Mancheron." She states, ending the bow to stand up straight once again. "It is quite the pleasure to be before you. My name is Shot Sutaz, creator of the hacker class hand cybernetic. I suppose you could call me a tech patent merchant of sorts. I make prototypes, then sell them to companies for a percentage of the profits produced when the companies mass produce and sell them on the market." Perhaps he had heard of her. After all, the story of a former worthless Denon street rat rising up through having the genius to produce a piece of tech that John Locke was willing to buy? Such a story might be making it's rounds. If not, she still had an interesting product for him nonetheless.

She takes off her hat now, flipping it in the air before letting it land upside down on her palm. "With me, I bring a gift. This hat is one of the the first of it's kind, Mighty Paranoda. It's a cooling hat, you see. Whenever it's hot, the coolant gas running through it becomes active, keeping your brow free of sweat. It can come in various shapes and sizes, I produced this one to what I believe is your preference, as it is modelled after what I've seen you wear in your pictures. Personally, I can't wear hats because tentacles get in the way." She shrugs. "But I like your chosen aesthetic. Dapper and classic." The nautolan then holds out the hat, offering it to him.

Ebony Ambrosia Credit Wizard

 

[Credit Wizard]

Location: Ball Room: Castle
Objective: To Mingle with Various People and forge connections for later use.
Equipment: Mask | Hutt Sized Suit
Tags: Open plus [ Ebony Ambrosia | Shot Sutaz ]
Relevant Links: Mancheron Association of Manufacturing & Commerce | Mancheron Association of Food & Beverages

---

"This lady is certainly something..." Paranoda thought to himself; as he had sent away the quarren banker for quite some time now. He was wondering if the woman was deep in thought or was going to try something against him. He had his personal security forces on his ship that he could call to extract him from the event if he choose to make a hasty escape and flee back to his stronghold on Darvannis. While he waited for the lady to say something or at least start the conversation so it wasn't as awkward; the hutt picked up out of the corner of his glowing reddish yellow eyes a new addition to the party. A exotic light purple nautolan that surely stood out among the crowd that had gathered for the event; much like himself in that regards. He was how the humanoids described this exact situation as an "elephant in the room" so to speak. Being vastly different than the others in attendance; but he hoped that this nautolan would draw the attention away from himself. The Lorda of the Mancheron Kajidic would observe the appearance of this new person and judge to himself that the way she was dressed was more in the line of brothel service than a masquerade because she was wearing an unusual outfit and a top hat that didn't match the wardrobe at all and looked like a fashion disaster waiting to happen. He took notice of the fact that she always was wearing heels but in the boot configuration instead of showing off skin like the more common configuration. Paranoda never knew why women liked to wear such death traps upon their feet; but he himself couldn't judge them considering that his entire body was slug like and he didn't have to worry about putting shoes on. He had just started to look away from the new person that entered and back to his first female companion for the evening; when the nautolan suddenly made eye contact with him and promptly walked over to him in a mute sort of fashion; not in a hurry but not slow pace either along with the sound of the clanking of her high heels. This was another woman that had willingly walked to a hutt lorda; full well knowing their reputation as criminal kingpins and slavers. Something was off here as to why both woman would want to speak to him..he would have to find out why..

---

The Hutt Lorda of Mancheron would have been holding the glass of wine in his right hand; the beverage in the glass was poured from the exotic bottle that he was given from the other woman in his company. Not drinking it yet but acted like he was going too as to not appear suspicious in the least; he still doubted whether or not it was being poisoned. Paranoda watched as she took a bow in front of him and addressed him by a fancy title; no doubt trying to win his favor for a potential conversation. He personally didn't like being called by titles as they meant nothing compared to action. Once the nautolan raised her body to stop bowing; would she proceed to speak to him. Paranoda pondered over her words about being the creator of the hacker class hand cybernetic; he himself haven't heard of this product before because he mainly dealt with the food and beverage trade and paid little attention to anything else on the market that he couldn't use to increase his profit margin. The Hutt Lorda was interested that they could make prototypes and sold them to companies for an exchange of the profit; Paranoda wasn't interested in being swindled out of his credits just yet because although the nautolan had quite the reputation; but reputation alone will not secure you the favor of the hutt clans in any transaction big or small. Hutts worked through action and bargains; and Paranoda was confident enough that she would push him with extragged sales numbers to get him to buy. Paranoda didn't say anything yet as a result of his previous thinking. He raised his right eye a little as the woman would bring the top hat from off of her head and started to explain the details of the product to himself; apparently it was designed after his famous painting that was taken when he was still a young hutt so long ago and didn't have his signature long beard and locks that he currently has. Paranoda would wait for a minute before proceeding to speak; pondering over whether to accept it or not as the woman outstretched her hand to offer it to himself.

---

"An interesting product that I might add; the cooling gas that run through it is a valuable commodity to better protect from the immense heat on various planets. Although I would suggest; that you attempt to make a prototype that allows the entire body to get cooled instead of only the head. If you can manage such; I'm sure you will have plenty of buisness from the hutt community and make a larger profit." - Exclaimed Paranoda; giving her a suggestion about how to expand the uses of the product that had only been recently made. When it came to business and how to increase it; Paranoda was an expert in that regard although not as smart as the more powerful companies in the galaxy that had thousands of products each year and knew how to market them to various people for practically nothing. Paranoda outstretched his hand to grab the top hat from her; stuffing the gift inside of his large brown cloak that went around his black suit with a white undershirt; knowing that he could use this product for a later time. Looking down to the glass of wine that was inside of his hand; came to him a devious idea. He would use this unfortunate woman to test the wine that the other woman gave him to drink; if it was poisoned at least he wouldn't be the one dying from it. Although this might seem cruel to the outside observer; hutts were known for wanting to preserve their own life at the cost of others. He wouldn't be blunt about it; so he would offer the wine to her and await the results. "Since you are here; what about a glass of freshly poured wine. I hear that this particularly brand helps the mind and could give you ideas for a new product. Such as a self refrigeration bottle that could keep your beverage cold for 3 weeks. Besides; it would be rude if I didn't give something in return for this hat." Said the Hutt Lorda; outstretching his own hand to offer it to the lady. He would shift his focus a little back to the other woman in his company for the evening. Wondering if they were done pondering about what to say. Besides the event was in full swing; and paranoda didn't have to go anywhere this evening. It would be nice to relax until the alarm bells inside of his head told him to leave to perserve his own life.

 

[Trinity Harris]

Spoiler: Equipment and links

Ship: Luminary class light explorer exchanging crew space for biolabs

Spoiler: wearing

Interacting with: Eleena Salwa

. “Between that and the price, it looks like I got the easier of our outfits!”

"You know what, you are probably right about that, I do have one little secret though" she said, looking at Eleenas high heels and hitching her dress up discretely to reveal a pair of knee length, Very comfortable looking leather boots. "I plan on still being able to walk by the time we all kicked out... but shhh, it's our little secret."

Watching Eleena blush made Trinity smile, the pink was so clear on her pale skin "maybe I should just say to hell with it, slip off to the bathroom an strip all this gear off from under my dress" she winked, this time trying to get a blush "the ex student in me would have me either leave it somewhere conspicuous or find some attractive person and slip it in their pocket. But in a room full if people that can read minds and choke you with a glance, the scandal would probably not be as entertaining as I remember it was back then." She laughed and sipped her drink. She had really debated coming tonight, not really knowing anybody, but now she was glad she had.

If you have time to take a one or two year-long course, before getting certified, I’ll be glad to take you out for a spin! Otherwise, we can still ride the speeder bikes together.” She said, before taking another, more bold sip.

“I may be forgetting, but what type of bike did you race on? Was it a Phantom?

"You mean to tell me your military has systems in place to prevent dangerously unqualified civilians getting their hands on high performance military hardware? I am stunned and outraged." It was a real shame, but she never expected to get into a military swoop any time soon.

"Sure yeah, it was a phantom I raced, love them, so light and easy to handle. The racing league allowed them to be modified though, so most if us had the limiters taken off and a few other tweaks, made them a real handful sometimes." She gestured to a pair of small scars just under her chin."I have a couple of them on my ship that I use for work. They are stock though, you can't risk being 800 miles from base in potentially a hazardous environment when your aftermarket supercharger blows up."

She was back to feeling shy again "maybe if you don't have to ship out in the morning and we are still friends, we could go out for a ride, I hear the animal life on this planet is fairly interesting, or not," she quickly said, "it's OK if you can't"

The dance floor was getting busier as the alcohol slowly reduced the average inhibition levels of the room. Everyone looked amazing, even the hutt. She tried to imagine everyone in their day to day and pictures just how different a scene it would be, with military types, force users, scientists like her self and others.

 

[Ladybug]

Mikilanna Mihaly (Darth Kauhu)
Overseer of Science Development, Knight Warden of the Shroud​

Location: Castle
Equipment: Dark Blessings of Kuolema (Twin Lightsabers), Feravvax XVI (Cybernetic Eyes), PITA CV1 (Cybernetic / Bionic Tail), Omni VI (Bionic Arm), Varjokävely (Battle Outfit)
Tags: Trinity Harris

The dress she was forced to wear felt constricting and to revealing for her tastes. This whole Ball was an insult upon her senses, where the comforts of dissection deep in a cold, dark, and dank basement was more fitting to the Overseer than a poorly designed room with to many bright lights and cascading smells of varying perfumes from the bodies flooding the scene. For the hundredth time, she adjusted the damn dress as it tried to reveal her goodies, attracting a mate. Under her breath, she cursed the whole ordeal. She needed a distraction.

Spying one Trinity Harris from across the room, it was time to introduce herself to the newest addition to her science program. Brushing herself rudely through the other patrons, her eyes remained transfixed on the girl.

Uncaring of the others around the girl, Mikilanna took the girl's hand leading her causally upon the dance floor. Placing her left hand to the girl's right, her right to the girl's left, she led the shocked girl across the dance floor, timing the body movements of the girl to the music; placing her own body in comparison to that of the girl. When the music hastened in speed, so did the the Overseer do so with the girl, and when the music dropped into a lullaby trance; she slammed the girl closer to her body, her eyes staring into the young one.

"If you're going to join my science program," Mikilanna said, dipping the girl so close to the floor that her back was mere inches from it, she continued attaching her cybernetic eyes into the confused eyes of the girl adding, "I would hope with some future prospects that you learn to dance better than this."​

 

[Ebony Ambrosia]

Admittedly, from where Ebony's meatsuit stood, the Hutt Credit Wizard was a formidable creature. All the more flesh to play with, but they were not here to assault the creature. At least their physical form made up for the lack of 'size' spiritually that surrounded almost everything else in the galaxy -- not that it was a failing on their part, really. A hive mind might feel more on par with the Force Spirit.

"I am certain your reasons are true, our Lord." Ebony had posed as a Noble a time or thrice. First few times went about how you'd expect -- poorly. They made even less sense than most mortals. A few of the basics had stuck with them over the years though. "As you say, we have my own reasons for being here this evening. A chance encounter with someone of your esteem being one."

The woman's countenance darkened immediately when the 'hey, you, lady' dropped, however. Ebony had learned how to Play Human, but not how to Play Human and tolerate being disrespected all at once. A flaw in the diamond. Besides, their education about Nobles highlighted that not tolerating such uncouth behavior was apropos. Fortunately -- for everyone -- the Mighty Lord took it upon himself to silence the annoying pest in their presence with a gesture. It amazed Ebony that such a thing somehow commanded mortals to be silent. Usually they had to stab or shoot them.

Then the Hutt delivered a look that -- if Ebony had a heart or adrenaline glands -- would have had them fallen in love with the giant slug. It at least got a smile back on the Noble's lips.

And then another strode up and announced their presence. Apparently in an effort to sell the Hutt a hat, which admittedly was at least something the giant being would have a personal interest in buying. This 'cooling' Hat would have to pass muster as well, as Paranoda no doubt could spot a poorly made fashion accessory.

As for the Hutt offering the intrusive creature wine, Ebony could not care less. That might be odd in and of itself for a Noble whose gift was shared or given to another to have no reproach, but then they did not know 'better.' Of course, unless the Empress planned to kill everyone present, the wine was entirely safe to drink, as Ebony had stolen it from one of the wait stress for the event.

"A fine gift to be sure. We, however, believe our services could benefit the Mancheron's ability to conduct business in this region. Establishing trustworthy contacts is instrumental to facilitating iron-clad contractual agreements and ensuring timely delivery of product or remuneration. We would not wish you to be subject to the lackadaisical whims of lesser creatures, such as that Quarren." A smile graced the Noble's lips once more. "Is our Lord's primary interest in financial markets, or the transaction of goods? Many opportunities exist that may benefit us both should the offer be suitably enticing."

Else Ebony might get back to contemplating the esteemed Empress' 'condition.' Ebony could now tell the woman wasn't a mortal at all, or at least not one that would keel over and die. Nor one to be possessed. As certain possibilities were shuttered, however, others were made available. Perhaps it would be possible to absorb the woman as part of their whole? Though care would need to be taken still so they were not the ones consumed in turn.

At last, the Noble's cool gaze turned to regard Shot Sutaz after having finally conversed with the opulent Lord. Ebony supposed the creature passed as pretty with her atypical flesh coloring. As they examined this woman with senses few possessed, however, they became aware of something peculiar about this one. This Nautolan was standing there, and Ebony could feel her, but they also felt strangely absent. Was this thing a Jedai or a Sith? They didn't have the customary, haughty air about them. No affinity for cloaks or robes. Perhaps something for Ebony to study later in seclusion where none would interrupt.

 

[Credit Wizard]

Location: Ball Room: Castle
Objective: To Mingle with Various People and forge connections for later use.
Equipment: Mask | Hutt Sized Suit
Tags: Open plus [ Ebony Ambrosia | Shot Sutaz ]
Relevant Links: Mancheron Association of Manufacturing & Commerce | Mancheron Association of Food & Beverages

---

[Past Conversation with Ebony Ambrosia]

Paranoda would turn his body a little to face the woman that was his only company at this point in time. He did this to convey his message clearly to the woman and she would understand where he was coming from without him having to explain it in vivid detail of sorts. The woman had pondered for a few minutes before responding to his question about the reason why she was here at this event. He decided to respond promptly after she was done speaking about the chance to meet with people; the same reason that he had for coming to this humanoid event that he otherwise wouldn't have arrived too to begin with. "Well that is certainly admirable; that you made your way here just for myself. Although I would have suspected that you arrived for the Empress of the Eternal Empire; who is more well known in the galaxy as the head of a major galactic power. However; I do see your reasoning to talk to a hutt lorda; who are known for their influence in both illegal and legal commerce." Exclaimed the Hutt Lorda of the Mancheron Kajidic; wondering to himself as to why he was the center of there attention when the equally more powerful and fearful presence at this event belonged to the Empress of the Eternal Empire. Who no doubt was surrounded by her retainers and servants without regards to anyone else at this event. Of course; as a member of this event; he would pay his due respect to the empress of the eternal empire when the opportunity presented itself as that was the only thing to do at this time. He watched with great interest as the woman had noticeably darker shade on her face; and he accounted that to the quarren banker that was annoying them both; so he simply used a gesture and told the quarren in no subtle words to get lost and the quarren followed his advice seeing the deadly stare that was the classic "Hutt Death Stare". Once this was happening; he would still have the glass of wine in his hand; not drinking it yet due to a sneaking suspicion he had that it was poisoned.

---

[Present Conversation with Ebony Ambrosia & Shot Sutaz]

Paranoda had already noted down his reaction to the new company that had joined him and the other woman. Peering over from time to time to the first woman that had decided to join him in the first place. Noticing the reaction of the woman to the new person that had joined them; and was telling him about the cooling product. Paranoda had responded back to the second woman with advice on how to increase the usefulness of the product through having a prototype that cooled the entire body other than the head as that would drive up the profit by purchase by the hutt families who could use this product to expand to desert worlds and the like who had a similar temperature and atmosphere. Having decided to use this poor woman as the test subject to see if the wine was poisoned or not; he was simply waiting with an outstretched hand for the second woman to take the glass from him as a return gift for the cooling hat that he was given. While he waited for them to respond to his gesture; he turned his form a little to take in both of them at the same time and provide him with an escape route if they should try to kill him at the event. Although he himself doubted that they would try anything; as the eternal empire was the host of this event and they were a major galactic power that could challenge even the more well known and older factions such as the Galactic Alliance or the Confederacy. Paranoda would have to wait for them to accept the wine; or in the event that they didn't accept. Pour it into a bush and hoped that no one noticed. He would wait for there response before proceeding to speak.

---

Paranoda would turn his head a little towards the first woman; as she started to speak in a sort of counter offer manner. That the hutt lorda of the mancheron kajidic used often to outbid of his rivals on investment opportunities. Although he was here for connections and to mingle with the eternal empire; he wasn't sure if he should make an agreement with just anyone and waste his hard earned credits that he worked hard for in his numerous businesses that he found from a young age and founded them from the bottom up with nothing to his name at that time. However; as she began to explain that she could provide a better service than that quarren ever could and the chance to establish iron-class agreements that would secure his influence in this region and as a way to snub the Supreme Mogul Broka who had connections with the eternal empire's top leadership. Although fighting between them was forbidden under the hutt republic's constitution to which he was a member via there assembly. This didn't mean that he couldn't hire a third party to move his piece of the pie forward to overtake the supreme mogul in the region of space controlled by this empire of the eternals. This offer by the first woman would interest him; and he responded with due haste. "You certainly have my interest in this offer; the Joint Mancheron Associations is in need of services to expand our influence to challenge the other major corporate rivals that have established themselves more in the galactic market. In exchange you would get all the services that are provided by the Joint Mancheron Associations as that would be a fair trade for your services. These opportunities would indeed; allow both of us to benefit from them and to establish a formal partnership in that regard." Exclaimed the Hutt Lorda of the Mancheron Kajidic; wanting to see how far the second woman would go in order to secure his investment. He often found that when faced with a rival; they would be willing to give up far more than they had in order to secure the investment that they currently needed at this time. He would have to wait for the second woman to respond to the first woman's convincing argument and his statement before he agreed with either one. He noticed with his acute eyesight that the first woman was staring at the second woman and slightly judging them or so it appeared to Paranoda. Regardless of this; he would carry on enjoying himself at this event and promptly waited for a response from either.

 

[Eleena Salwa]

Location: Ballroom, Castle
Attire: XxX │ XxxX │ xX
Direct Interaction: Trinity Harris

By now, the swoop ace’s pale white features were practically beet red, which was only made all the more colorful with each sip of her drink, giggling as she did. Likewise, Eleena had not expected to know anyone at the ball. She wasn’t quite on the level of stuffy military officers or the prim and proper nobles who were waltzing across the ballroom floor, especially as she still relied on steep discounts in order to front the costs of attending such an extravagant affair. However, to meet a minor celebrity who she had something in common with, then to find herself flirting with the woman even before finishing her first drink, Eleena felt as if she had hit the lottery!

“Trinity…” The Twi’lek began, playfully smacking her lips as she did. “Are you...questioning my ability to move in heels after having a few drinks?!” Eleena said in a mockingly incredulous tone. ”I’m not just fast on a bike, you know!” She huffed playfully, before taking another, longer sip of her drink as if to prove a point.

As if on cue, her big, cyan orbs narrowed at the mention of the bathroom, to which Eleena, now feeling somewhat tipsy, even though the alcohol probably wasn’t getting her drunk that fast, could not help but to seize the opportunity.

“Or...maybe you could slip it in my purse...” She drawled, a wicked grin laid bare across her features as the bold, playful comment left her lips. “But, if we don’t hate each other by then, I would adore a ride!” Eleena added after the scientist suggested an excursion, before taking a deep, high-pitched breath, her eyes suddenly going wide with excitement as if she had discovered a new scientific theorem.

“Bless the Empress, we could even go camping!” She squealed, bouncing up and down on her heels as she did.

 

[Cass Gemini]

Spoiler: Gear and other links

Equipped: (weapons in locker) Calypso's Thunder, Harlequin sabers
Ship: Midnight Kyber
NPCs: Crew of the Midnight Kyber

Spoiler: wearing

Ingrid L'lerim

"Excuse me?" she asked in an ice-cold, military voice, and her posture also became so in an instant, to the military. "I’m sure we don’t know each other enough to talk about topics like this … miss?"

"Oh, well that's not the correct code phrase response" Cass laughed, trying to make a joke and defuse the tension that she immediately found herself in. "My apologies, your highness, sometimes my words get out before I think them through" she bowed her head respectfully and then looked back trying to get a feel for the woman's mood, although between her lack of proper training and the Empress substantial training, she was unlikely to sense even a jot unless more than absolutely allowed. She wouldn't probe and further than passive sensation.

"I am Cass, Gemini, I am a.." she quickly had to check her mental list, she wasn't wanted in EE territory thankfully "a freelancer goods procurement and redistribution operative" she grinned, she had the confidence to meet the gaze of the woman in front of her with her heterochromatic eyes, even though her heart was pumping with adrenaline.

She supposed she should leave her to her other dignitaries really, but she wouldn't just walk away no, for risk of drawing the ire of the lady and spoiling a lovely party.

 

[Trinity Harris]

Spoiler: Equipment and links

Ship: Luminary class light explorer exchanging crew space for biolabs

Spoiler: wearing

Interacting with: Eleena Salwa

Trinity laughed again, "oh no, not at all, I am sure you can walk fine in those lovely heels, and won't be carrying them as you walk home barefoot complaining about the pain" now that was a wonderfully nostalgic moment from her uni days, going out in gorgeous shoes that you probably couldn't afford, and walking home barefoot because they hurt so much.

“Or...maybe you could slip it in my purse...”

She almost spat up the last of her champagne with that comment, and smiled as her skin went red, sexy Trin, she thought to herself.

"Well, that is a very kind offer of you to carry that for me, she said in a hushed voice, but then I might run into a bigger problem." She looked into Eleena's eyes, "what if I meet someone, we really click, I take her," correcting herself "them, back to my suite, but now I have to explain that the twi'lek girl has my nice lingerie in her purse? I wouldn't want to disappoint anyone"

At that moment a waiter chose to lean in and take her empty glass. This caused Trinity to suddenly become very aware that she was in a public place discussing slipping her underwear to a girl she had just met. Her social nervousness came flooding back and she felt so many eyes on here.

She laughed nervously, "so bikes?" She said, knowing the waiter was pretending he hadn't heard them flirting "Do you like classic bikes? Did you know that a popular racing mod on the classics circuit for the old FC-20 had to be banned. It messed up the power balance and centre of gravity in such a way that riders were doing backwards somersaults under heavy acceleration?"

The sound of camping was actually really interesting to Trinity, under the stars with nothing but the company of a beautiful woman, the plant life and just a few monsters to worry about. It was part of what got her into the natural sciences, you can't study wild plants trapped in an artificially lit basement lab.

"I love to camp by the way, that sounds so much fun, I was going to ask if you had some heavy weaponry to keep us safe hidden under that dress, but clearly that would be in the security lockers wouldn't it," the waiter had gone now "but maybe I should check, just in case"

 

[Shot Sutaz]

"The design of the hat was more of to give cooling while saving aesthetic. However.....Were I to lean more into function than aesthetic. I could make cooling bodygloves...." She mutters. She takes a datapad out of her small coat, writing down some calculations. "Not to mention the mandos have started working in wild space....I could also make a fortune off of them, those suits must get hot as hell. Maybe if I...." She begins tapping around on the screen, deeply concentrating on the sudden epiphany she's had. After a minute or so of letting her mind run free.

Then she snaps out of it, looking up to find that the hutt was offering her some wine. "Oh, I apologize. I can't drink alcohol. Due to an incident of sorts....." She knocks on her forehead, causing a metallic ding to be audible. "Parts of my brain are cybernetic. The consumption of alcohol messes with them, it's quite unpleasant. It has some perks though. Ever met a nautolan that can do this?" She questions, her hair suddenly coming to life as all the tendrils raise up and start moving around, each one completely prehensile. She has them all move and swirl together, one wrapping around the bundle, turning all her tendrils into a ponytail of sorts.

"I will look more into these cooling bodygloves at my lab. Till then...." She takes a card out of her little coat and hands it to the hutt. It contains her contact info. There's a subtle note on the back of the card in huttese. It stipulates that the smuggler's alliance is going to be on the rise again, and that they are at his service. "Now.....Parties are all about socializing outside of your usual circle. I'm going to go explore around if you don't mind." She gives a bow of her head.

With that said, she would head off, gaze drifting about to see the next opportunity.

Tag: Open because I don't know where to go next

 

[Iasha Rha]

It was not Iasha Rha's first time wearing an extravagant dress. She was the daughter of diplomats, As such, it was little issue for Iasha to find a dress and mask that suited her and fulfilled the requirements of the ball. The invitation had also been less of an issue than one would think. Her name did not carry much weight, but the respect others held for her late parents had opened certain doors.

Her dress was fitted to her red skin, shimmering like metal, yet draping like a liquid. Its colour had an nacreous change from black to purple and red depending on the light that hit it. Its cut was simple, classic, but complemented her well. She was twi'lek, and no frills were needed to make her exotic in gatherings such as these. Her shoes were a pair of her favourites, black suede with a hint of gold on its elevated heel. It contrasted nicely with the yellow tint of her eyes and the thin golden chain around her left wrist.

The mask, however, was the real accessory. It was carved wood, antiqued black with oils. This gave it a different texture to the dress, but a similar play of colours. In the shadow it was dark, but in the light, the browns and reds became apparent, weaving their play into that of her dress and skin.

Her act as cordial, but she purposely dialed herself down to be forgettable among the pomp. This too was something she had learned from her parents, and perfected in the tutelage of her master. Soirées such as these carried memories, and had she not been asked there for a purpose, then she would not have come.

Yet, there she was; A vision of quiet elegance.

Leaving the castle and its ball, Iasha made her way into the gardens and breathed the fresh air for the first time in what felt like hours. She felt a chill cling to the wind and rubbed the sides of her arms reflexively to warm herself up.

She had yet to complete her master's bidding.