Public [Zinder Event] Celebrating Mutually Assured Devotion!

[Rhys Swynol]

(Credit to Corazona von Ascania for the fantastic book cover!)

The derelict manor of a lost house of Naboo had been left in ruin for several decades. Interest in the property arose when owner of Zinder, Rhys Swynol, visited the property and began arrangements for purchasing the property in the aims of creating a new and very exciting Zinder event. A once in a lifetime event where his app was able to demonstrate the success and appeal for the female market with the crossover with Lady Velvet. A person that he had only been in contact with emails and correspondents with their agent.

However, Zinder was now able to offer the chance for fans to come to Naboo, explore this refurbished manor and explore the artistically, near perfect rendition of the manor from Mutually Assured Devotion. The manor had taken months to refurbish and the grounds surrounding the manor had taken just as long to restore and upkeep for the event. It was costly on Zinder’s part but the cause was worth the expenditure. A chance to give out exclusively signed copies of the latest novel, that was a priceless boast the app would forever hold.

In the main hall, a large dance area was built with catering in one corner. Signed copies and other Lady Velvet merchandise was available for fans to purchase in another room connected to the main hall. Musicians were setting up and tweaking their instruments as they prepared to play their first song.

The gardens were alive with the sparring circle having hired Echani actors fighting, providing live demonstrations of their beautiful and passionate language being displayed for guests to enjoy. There was a desk for those interested in signing up for a fight and the rules of conduct. No deaths or serious injuries and Zinder is not liable for any harm that participants may suffer.

Due to the restoration efforts, Rhys decided to offer guided tours conducted by a historian well versed in Naboo high society. Someone perfect to offer lectures and guided tours through the many other rooms in the Nabooian manor. The tour guide was waiting patiently in the small front room, next to a stand of leaflets for those interested in the tour to read and enjoy as they explained the grand history of this ancient building.

The Zinder Event begins! Have fun!​

Objectives:

• Objective 1 - Attend the fantastic ball, enjoy drinks, food and music that has been artistically created to resemble the fictional high society display that was in the Lady Velvet novel. Also check out the adjoining room filled with Lady Velvet merchandise and grab a signed copy of the latest novel!

• Objective 2 - Explore the carefully crafted garden with its own fighting circle where hired actors spar in Echani fashion in a display of fiery passion and communication for matches to enjoy. You can even take part in the sparring if you so choose!

• Objective 3 - Explore the restored manor and admire the creative choices in the reconstruction as well as the history of this beautiful ancient building. A perfect tour for those who have a love for history and foreign cultures indeed!

• BYOO - Keep it in theme and just enjoy any fun at this exciting event!

 

[Dreidi Xeraic]

Location: Ballroom
Outfit: Dress Suit
Tag: Katherine Holt

Dreidi had decided to give the dating app Zinder a chance since she knew that she needed to move on from Aiden Porte and it was a chance for her to interact, meet new people and hopefully find someone who could help her rambunctious little trouble maker in the form of Aileni. Her son. That was something she was unsure how others would handle in this dating galaxy. Having a child already and being a very single mother, it was tricky. Dreidi had organised her mother to look after Aileni while she travelled out to Naboo to attend the event.

It was never easy leaving Aileni but she couldn't be a helicopter parent and Dreidi knew that her mother would be taking great care. The other witch mothers also tended to help. They knew that Aileni held much potential and was part of rebuilding Dreidi's grandmother's clan.

Doing her hair in the half braided style that Dreidi favoured with the dress suit, she checked her suit in a mirror and the long cape that trailed behind her. Dreidi was not sure if this fitted the style of the Lady Velvet novels, she had never really read the novels since they were not her type of fiction. Dreidi just hoped that she wouldn't be someone that would be standing out too much. She just made sure her suit was smooth, neat and entered the ballroom. Breathing in deeply, Dreidi just hoped that she looked good since getting back into shape after having Aileni.

She just hoped her date turned up and they had a good time together.

 

[Saul Whesai]

Outfit
Objective 2
Gardens
Tag: Eivii , Open

Saul sat on the grass as he looked over the various sword demonstrations from afar, looking uncomfortable in his new fancy outfit. It felt like it was infecting him, turning him into something he wasn't like they were a rash. He wouldn't have come so far for this event if it didn't offer some hope for the future. Sometimes he didn't know if he had one or not. Or that an end by way of the blaster was the only way he would go, by others or by his hand. But he at least hoped he could take something from this lesson even though he doubted lightfoils would only be something to be stolen on Nar Shadda. However, running the rooftops like a caped crusader with one of the rapiers in hand, defending the crime moon's citizens from evil doers that lurked in the shadows did give the Android a smirk. Maybe Saul could make a future for himself after all.

 

[Tigris]

Objective: BYOO
Location: Main Ballroom
Outfit: Dress
Tag; Everest Vale

This was not her. At least, who she had been. Romance, novels, dates... it was almost surreal. Tigris had been raised and trained to do nefarious things by nefarious people, that was the whole of her life. Nine centuries now separated her from that, and her conversion to the Light and Jedi training was very new. Tigris was still woefully unsocial. But it was a new world, new life, and she wanted to turn that around. It was a big ship to turn.

But things were changing faster, since meeting Everest Vale. The young Echani woman had surprisingly seized the affections of the mysterious Tigris. Opposite in most every way, the attraction between them was magnetic and undeniable. And they had went with it. Their relationship was still blossoming. Thye had only one unofficial date before this rather significant event they planned to attend together.

Of course, it was Eve's idea, but Tigris wanted to indulge the silver-haired girl that had captured her affection. It was like fitting a round peg in a square hole, but Tigris made an effort. She actually read the novel by Lady Velvet, having to take great effort to force herself to sit down and read the sappy romance. But, to her own chagrin, Tigris liked it. The novel swept her away from the chaos of the galaxy. The plot was predictable, and Tigris found a surprising comfort in that. She certainly didn't mind the steamier parts either, and quickly read through the novel.

So, somewhat prepared, she made way to Naboo. They had agreed to meet there, as the trip took several days, and Master Noble and Everest had to meet before the Echani left. Tigris had secured a dress and heels, and had someone fix up her hair. Then, she hired a speeder to meet Everest, so they could arrive together.

As they walked up to the grand entrance to the mansion, The usually steel-nerved Shadow felt a nervous giddiness as she ascended the stairs with Everest at her side. Her hand reached to take Eve's in her own. The touch was warm and electric. Eve's hand was so much softer.

Looking over at Everest, Tigris met those silvery eyes and screwed up her courage. "Come on, show me how to have a good time." She teased with a smirk.

Everest Vale

 

[Everest Vale]

Objective: BYOO
Location: Main Ballroom
Outfit: Dress & Necklace
Tag: Tigris

Feelings. She had far too many of them right now. On her way to Naboo, Eve had gone over the whole night and the days preceding it time and time again in her head until it no longer made any sense to her. She was going on a date— a ball — with Tigris.

Who she had invited with her own words and such.

Good heavens. Who was this Echani girl and what did she do with Everest Vale? She could scarcely believe she had asked Tigris out twice, and picked a freaking ball for the second date — AND SHE SAID YES.

She couldn't even dance. Could she? Maybe knowledge of the Echani martial arts would guide her footwork and motion well enough. She just had to remember to breathe.

Everest had never been to Naboo before, but the journey here gave her a lovely bird's eye view of its diverse landscape. It was lovely, and amidst all the high emotion and anticipation that swelled around her, she managed to make a mental note to come again sometime. Adorned in the elegant dress and silver necklace Master Noble had helped to pick out for her, Eve shone like Echani royalty. She'd never worn a dress, never worn makeup, never 'done up her hair', never done any of this before. Yet here she was, all dolled up and sparkling like a Diathim.

What would Mama think~

The thought made her giggle as soon as it came to her. She moved as gracefully as she could up the stairs to the mansion entrance, glancing to her date beside her and yet again enjoying how entrancing she was. This was really happening. As they neared the entrance, she could hear the chatter of its attendees from inside, whilst a few guests were still hanging around outside waiting for stragglers or having a quick smoke before the formal proceedings. The thought of being around so many people — especially like this — made her a little nervous to say the least.

Tigris' hand found hers, and already a soft flush of pink came to her face. She gave a small, sheepish smile, but something about simply being in Tigris' presence made her feel calm and safe, amidst it all, despite all the nerves that threatened to come for her at any moment. She took in a slow breath, and allowed the Light to wash over her and Tigris both. When they stepped through the main entrance, Everest audibly gasped.

The room shone magnificently, adorned by all the trappings of a proper high society gathering. The sound of the piano and the smell of all manner of entrées welcomed them, and Eve took a moment to take in the vast scope of the whole event. Her small hand gently squeezed Tigris' in giddiness as the nervousness seemed to melt away in an instant, replaced with an undeniable excitement.

"Come on, show me how to have a good time."

Eve grinned back at her, and then pointed to an area to the side where a holo-photographer was taking photos of couples in attendance. Her grin transformed to something somewhat uncharacteristically mischievous.
"Shall we?" A giddy giggle escaped her as her silver eyes shone bright, locking with Tigris', and a wide beam found its way across her face.

Tigris​

 

[Eivii]

Outfit: Dress
Zinder Matches: Saul Whesai , Shan Pavond

Eivii watched the fighters in the gardens before the beautiful manor, sighing. It really was shockingly close to how the book depicted it - the building, not the fighting. The Echani martial arts was so thoroughly different from the shockboxinf she had been watching in the basement of the Dancing Bantha a week ago.

She looked around the gardens, spotting foreign faces left and right. She anxiously brushed her black hair out of her crimson eyes and behind her ear, using the act as an excuse to check behind her.

Eivii thought she spotted one of her matches in the gardens, but when she approached, a Twi'lek had beaten her to him. So now she stood - unsure of how to behave in polite society, as if she had never been arrested for attempted assassination, or spent years in prison because of it. Maybe even if nobody arrived she could at least pretend not to be a bounty hunter for an evening.

She began thinking of false identities - something powerful, but not obviously fake. A little mysterious, but refined - and absolutely not dangerous. She had enough danger in her life as-is.

Her heart skipped when she thought she spotted a familiar Zeltron, but it was just another half of a pair meeting to watch the performance.

OPEN​

 

[Shan Pavond]

"Okay...Chocolates...Check. Flowers...Check...What else did I write down in my notes..."

Shan fumbled with the items he was holding, placing the box of chocolates under his arm whilst holding the bouquet of flowers in his spare hand. Some might say he was going a bit too far for something that wasn't meant to be "serious". But he had said he wanted to make people smile, and his match had mentioned wanting to be treated like a Lady Velvet protagonist. Which meant chocolates, flowers...maybe dancing. Hopefully not dancing. He didn't do well when it came to dancing.

"Pardon me...Excuse me...Just...looking for a Chiss..."

The Mirialan gently shimmeyed his way through the area, trying to find his match. Tugging at his collar for a moment. Another sign of how he was trying to take this somewhat seriously, even if he said he wasn't. A full suit and everything. Luckily, he was used to dressing up formally by this point. It was different to his Jedi robes but at the same time...he still liked it. What could he say? Green was most definitely his colour. He carried on wandering for a moment...before coming across who he assumed was his match. She matched the picture. She was a Chiss. And...she had a red dress. Huh. Red and blue went well together. Plus she looked strong. Reminded him of Lily in a way.

"Ahem. Excuse me. You're Eivii right? I'm Shan."

Should he have tried to act all fancy? Refer to her as Lady Eivii and himself as Lord Shan? No. No. That was too cringey. Even for himself. Plus using the term Lord for himself felt wrong on so many levels. Instead he held the bouquet of flowers out to her with a grin on his face.

"These are for you. I wasn't sure what kind of flowers you'd like...so I went with the suggestion of roses? I mean, they match your dress. So that's good."

 

[Darth Nefaron]

TAGS: OPEN!
EQUIPMENT: Finest Black Cloak, Walking Stick

Oh, how he longed for the darkness of home.

Darth Nefaron, The Corpse Lord, Master of Fear, Ruler of Anoat, and Herald of the Coming Darkness had a secret.

One so unspeakably terrible that the mere thought caused one to shutter.

He was an avid fan of the The Works of Lady Velvet.​

This may be rather shocking to an outside observer, but Nefaron had chanced across the series when first compiling his forbidden library on Anoat. He wasn't sure how physical copies of the series had managed to slip into piles of old scrolls and texts dedicated to the blasphemous arts of the Sith, but he had felt a compulsion to read on with each sentence that crossed the page. He knew full well the purpose of the series was to illicit several emotions the Dark Lord was no longer capable of experiencing. Holonet reviews of the series described them as little more than common trash that was put to page, stories to entice a cheap thrill from the lowest common denominator.

But the story structure is as immaculate!

Such raw emotion could have only been put to pen by a Sith so in tune with their emotion that Nefaron simply had to meet them! ​

Such a hope was fleeting, for even the best of his agents had failed to identify the mysterious author. All they could find out was the circulation of the series began within Alliance space. Could it be this Lord of the Sith was deeply embedded within the heart of their great enemy?

Regardless, Nefaron had brought out his finest black cloak, the trappings of the mad Sith chemist abandoned for but one night. Naturally, his appearance was a bit jarring, but most of those enjoying the ball simply assumed he was some elaborately costumed actor, believing the tattered remnants of his face to be little more than a well-designed mask. He slipped by the ball-goers, his black cloak mostly concealing his identity as he theatrically relied on a walking stick. It wasn't long until he entered a decently sized line that extended from a room that was connected to the ballroom.

Nefaron had come for a very specific purpose. It had been promised that there would be signed copies of the latest release in the series which may just provide another hint to unraveling the mystery of the author's identity.

He would of course have to read the latest release as well.

For the furthering of Sith Science of course.

No other reason. ​

 

[Trayze Tesar]

---

CURRENT MISSION - Love Drives All Men M.A.D.
Immediate Goals -
1: Rendezvous with person of interest
1.1: Try not to get stood up like last time...
1.2: Slow down and smell the flowers.

BLUFOR - Darth Malum of House Marr

OPFOR - No enemies, just annoyances...

TARGETING ACTION(S) - Lirka Ka || OPEN FREQUENCY

---

It was the last bit of paperwork before entering the gardens first and foremost. Trayze had been rather susceptible to his cousin, especially since he had disclosed that he was just as much of a sappy romanticist as he was - worse still was that he had disclosed his own admiration for the author's works. The Kiffar made a mental note that, should Malum inevitably give him a signed copy of the latest of Lady Velvet's works, he would render the time honored familial tradition of a wedgie.

Breathing in the Nabooan air, he still found himself tense - being one of a handful of Sith compared to the whole slew of Jedi present. Something he would have to consult with the more sociologically inclined - seriously, why were there so many Jedi on Zinder?! But he remained near the Garden, his presence pinging an unseen sonar to his lordly cousin - Malum had decided to join Trayze to act as solace or "a source of good luck", and Trayze decided he needed it.

It was a lot better than slinking around, avoiding Valery Karking Noble.

For now, the Kiffar refocused his senses to the presents - along the garden near the sparring circle. Truthfully, he had hoped the Twi'lek he'd matched with was as much as she said she was on her profile, especially since she apparently was into hand-to-hand sparring. A woman who would stick by him and his future kids, could defend them, and help feed them - these were the standards that Trayze Tesar would hold his partners to, regardless of her mentioning in their previous texts that "she was a bit taller than in the picture".

In fact, it allowed Trayze to cheekily text back. I'm at the spot, should I expect you to peer over the hedge walls?

 

[Corazona von Ascania]

| O P E N |
​

I wonder if I should've gone with a different color palette…

The artwork on the cover was not the issue. The artisan she worked with - who'd done all of Lady Velvet's novel colors - was skilled and easy to work with. There had been two draft images; one with dark shades of plum wine and sangria, and another with a more silvery, grayscale feel. They'd gone with the former, and as she scrutinized the promotional cutout a head taller than her, Cora wondered if she'd made the wrong decision.

An attendant noticed her leafing through the novel and slid beside her.

"Would you like to purchase a copy, ma'am? We have signed editions behind the counter."

There was just a hint of nervous energy in Cora's smile. The identity of Lady Velvet was a carefully concealed secret, but she found delight in attending new release events when she could, sticking to the fringes in quiet, but rapt observation. This collaboration with Zinder was the largest such event in Lady Velvet's history.

"No, thank you," she said, adjusting her mask. "I'm just browsing."

The gold filigree did not sit comfortably across the bridge of her nose, but it looked remarkably similar to the one worn by Countess Leclerc, heroine of Passion of the Parsecs.

As the attendant pranced away to help another customer, Cora's gaze followed along toward the curtains draped at either side of a grand picture window. A rich, dusky mulberry velvet exactly as chapter 14 had described them. She was impressed by Zinder's attention to detail.

Just as it had been written.

 

[Darth Nefaron]

TAGS: Corazona von Ascania , OPEN
EQUIPMENT: Finest Black Cloak, Walking Stick
​

"No no no! Love as Hard as Beskar is the best in the series! How could you say it's the weakest?"

"Oh don't be like that. I am just so sick of Mandalorians! Can you honestly tell me that The Dark Side of Love isn't perfect? It's so wrong but so right!"

Nefaron was on the verge of murdering the two women in front of him.

Passion of the Parsecs was objectively the best-written story in the series, but he hardly had time to debate the pair.
​

The longer he waited in line, the more signed copies of the latest work were being sold. While he had intended to refrain from using the force on this excursion, his patience was wearing thin as it was. Quietly, he wedged his way in between the arguing women, and just before they were about to make a fuss about him cutting in the line, Nefaron waved a hand. Thankfully the Dark Side offered a more powerful version of the humble mind trick, he did not need to utter a single word to force the women out of line, their eyes glazed over as if in a trance. He ensured they found a comfortable spot browsing the various plushy versions of the characters featured in the Lady Velvet series.

While keenly aware of the presence of Jedi, Nefaron figured they would be far too wrapped up in the festivities to notice just a touch of the Dark Side in use. He didn't kill anyone at any rate, he just ensured he could retrieve his prize. Soon enough, he was next in line, he only had to wait for one of the attendants to see to his needs. Unsurprisingly, the one working the counter made himself as busy as possible to avoid having to deal with the cloaked creature, meaning Nefaron had to wait for the female attendant to finish up her conversation with an immaculately dressed woman who seemed rather uninterested in acquiring a copy of the newest release and instead focused on a simple promotional cutout. Odd, but then again everyone who had chosen to attend the event was odd in one way or another.

The moment the attendant turned to speak with Nefaron, she verbally let out a yelp of surprise when she saw her next customer. Her cheeks were red, and her hands flew up to cover her mouth as he stumbled over an apology.

"S-sir! I a-apologize, you just-"

"Startled you?"

The woman blinked, attempting to avoid the gaze of the Sith Lord. Nefaron, for his part, rather enjoyed the fact he had frightened the poor girl. Just because he wasn't actively trying to appear as a Sith didn't mean he stopped enjoying common torments. The woman found it in herself to try and move on, offering as close to a smile as she could.

"How can I help you, sir?"

"I will take a signed copy of Mutually Assured Devotion. That will be all."

The attendant's false smile began to fade as she slipped behind the counter, scouring through the copies for a moment before she paused and let out a silent curse.

"I apologize, sir, we seem to be out of the signed copies. I will go check and see if we have any more in storage."

Nefaron said nothing, he just watched the woman with little more than what amounted to a frown. The attendant took the hint and rushed her way through a door behind the counter, no doubt taking her time to look for another signed copy in hopes the man would simply lose interest and wander off. But the Corpse Lord was a patient man, he simply stepped off to one side and allowed both hands to rest on his walking stick. As he scanned the room, he again found the woman the attendant had spoken to earlier and he had a bit of a revelation.

It was as if she had stepped right out of Passion of the Parsecs. She was the spitting image of Countess Leclerc​

As he had to wait regardless, Nefaron approached the woman. Perhaps he could enjoy tormenting the upstanding citizens of the galaxy a little more, that would brighten his day.

"I must say you look immaculate. It's as if Countess Leclerc has stepped from the pages of fiction into reality. Well done." ​

 

[Quinn Varanin]

//: Naboo //:
//: Dress //:
//: Kaila Irons //: Serina Calis //: Tamsin Graves //:
//: Girl's Night //:

its a long mix so stop when you want

Slender fingers ran through silver hair strands, delicately settling the slight waves that wanted to flow freely in the wind. Quinn looked in the tall mirror of the apartment they had rented for this event and weekend. Naboo had been the prime pick for the setting of the Zinder event with the theme of Lady Velvet novels. Quinn had always been a long-time fan of the books, remembering her times in the Imperial home hiding the mature books from her Mother. The dramatized love stories had shaped the young woman's concept of passion - she longed for a romance such as that.

At times she wished for her life to mirror the high society of Lady Velvet novels. Quinn knew her world was just a breath away from the magical world the novelist wove. A stranger in the night, a rival turned lover, or a knight or servant in a secret affair with their Princess, all of the tales are almost a reality for the Princess. Quinn smiled as she placed the thin crown upon her head, the gold contrasting with her ashen locks. Leaning closer to the mirror, she stained her lips red with her signature lipstick, but her attention lay elsewhere. Her hazel eyes watched the woman move casually through the mirror, unaware of the Princess' gaze. Her movements, so fluid and natural, spoke volumes to the Echani.

Catching her breath, Quinn looked back into the mirror and lightly touched up the rest of her makeup. She pulled away from the mirror and looked at the dresser in front of her. The locket and ring hung loosely on the necklace chain she had always worn. There was something sentimental, special, in the items of her past, as she touched the metals, lightly cooling under her touch. They would remain home tonight, but Quinn knew she needed to learn to let go.

A golden high collar adorned her neck, the ornate chain trailing down her crimson backless dress. Looking over herself, she examined every inch of her frame delicately wrapped in rich silken fabric. It was all tied together with the Eshan-crafted crown—one that typically adorned her head when she was home.

Tonight was going to be a good, wild, and crazy night. Smiling, Quinn reached for the Corellian Red, to which Serina had turned them all on. The glass was finished quickly, and the Princess smiled, finally feeling free. "Oh, watch your step." She laughed and stepped over the handful of bottles they had already gone through. It was good that they were calling for a ride to take them to the greatest Zinder event the app had ever put on.

---

//: Ballroom //:
//: Naboo, Lady Velvet Manor //:​

In the stretched limo-style speeder, they had champagne and laughter. The ride seemed short but long enough for another glass of liquid courage. Quinn fought the urge to look in a particular direction, but they understood. Still, she could feel the emptiness of her hand without hers. The driver stopped and opened the door for the women. Offering a hand, he helped Quinn first; the others would follow. Quinn smiled as she looked up at the manor that had been redone in a perfect recreation of the places where so many sultry romances took place. Quinn felt like she was stepping into the crisp pages of Lady Velvet's world.

"Girls, we're here! Let's party!" She looked back and smiled at the women she was lucky to call friends. Quinn let her eyes linger upon her face; she was breathtaking. "Princess?" The voice snapped her attention, and Quinn looked back; she handed the man their reservations, and he escorted them towards the ballroom. The magic was here, and the moment a waiter passed by, the Princess grabbed a glass of champagne and sipped it, keeping the feeling alive. She directed the man to hand out what he had with him to her friends while she took in the elegant scene unfolding in front of her.

 

[Eivii]

Outfit: Dress

"Ahem. Excuse me. You're Eivii right?"

Eivii startled when she heard her name - she had anticipated being stood up despite, well, the nature of these events. Not that she went to these often.

Despite herself, Eivii suddenly felt shy - should she just run off? No, that would be terrible. She gulped and turned to the person addressing her.

A Miralian, almost the same height as her, green from head to toe and carrying chocolates and flowers for what was essentially a blind date - the man was had a kindness about him.

I'm Shan. These are for you. I wasn't sure what kind of flowers you'd like...so I went with the suggestion of roses? I mean, they match your dress. So that's good."

Oh kriff I've been staring like an idiot!

"Ahem, uh, yes I am Eivii," she tried to regain her composure, extending her hand in greeting, palm down, trying to act like royalty instead of a musclebound criminal in a dress. The more she tried, however the more fraudulent she felt. "Elae'ivi'ilomer, if the core name isn't sufficient."

Why did she say it like that? It was much too formal, and well, this man seemed. . . Kind, and a little awkward. And athletic.

She felt prematurely guilty. Women like her were born to hurt men like him. Better than she deserved but DankFarikI'mStaringAgain
Eivii accepted the flowers and chocolates - the roses matched the dress. The man seemed to fumble over his own determination to the bit. Maybe Eivii could help - a preemptive apology for however she inevitably hurt this man.

"They also match my eyes, so maybe don't sell yourself too short?"
Why did everything have to sound like an insult when she said it? Eivii fluttered her eyelashes a bit, then opened her eyes wide to gaze at Shan Pavond , letting him see the crimson Iris and sclera up close - giving unintentionally puppy-eyes at the Miralian.

"Not that you're short! Er... A pleasure to meet you, Shan."
The small earnest gesture had thrown off Eivii entirely. She really had expected someone meaner, like the galaxy would align some karmic justice for her past.

"So, tell me about yourself?" She asked, hopefully that she hadn't botched everything entirely.

Shan Pavond​

 

[Serina Calis]

Location: 1, Ballroom.
Tag: Quinn Varanin Kaila Irons Tamsin Graves ​

Serina Calis stepped out of the speeder with a grace that came as naturally to her as breathing, her posture poised and effortless. She was a vision, even in her armor—polished, sleek, and subtly reforged to blend into the lavish setting. The plating was dark, burnished with an almost ceremonial shine, its edges softened to appear less imposing but no less formidable. It was a quiet statement—one only those who truly knew her might understand. To everyone else, she was simply an enigmatic figure draped in elegance and power.

The soft hum of laughter, the gentle clinking of crystal, and the symphony of strings filled the air. The night was vibrant, a dream made tangible, a world of fiction turned reality. The ballroom was adorned with flowing silks and chandeliers that cast a golden glow over the revelers. It was, undeniably, beautiful. And yet, Serina felt like a spectator to something she could not touch.

Still, she smiled.

It was the kind of smile that could melt hearts, effortless and warm, like she belonged here, like she wasn't anything other than the young woman her friends knew. She laughed when Quinn made her grand declaration, lifted a glass in effortless camaraderie, and let the thrill of the moment wash over her. If she played the part well enough, she might even believe it herself.

She needed this. She knew she did.

Her gaze swept across the room, taking in the sights, the extravagant displays of Lady Velvet's world brought to life, the fiction so beloved by many. Once, she had indulged in such stories—romances of star-crossed lovers, of devotion both forbidden and consuming. It had been a fleeting indulgence, a glimpse into a life she would never have. Now, she wondered what had drawn her here. Nostalgia? A longing for something simpler? Or was it merely the desire to feel human again?

She reached for a drink—Corellian Red, the same drink she had once introduced to them all. The taste was rich, smooth, familiar. A tether to memories that felt distant, though the faces around her had not changed. She let herself enjoy it, allowed herself the illusion of peace, at least for tonight.

Her eyes flickered toward Quinn, watching the way she carried herself, the joy that radiated from her. There was something infectious about it, something grounding. It reminded Serina why she had come. She had been distant for too long. The bonds she had let fray would not mend themselves unless she made the effort.

So she would.

"To a perfect night," she said, raising her glass in a casual toast, her voice lilting with amusement. "Let's make the most of it."

No one would see the hesitation beneath her smile, nor the quiet war inside her. For tonight, she would stand together with those around her.

In her mind however,

She would stand alone.

 

[Lirka Ka]

Admittedly, the whole "Zinder" concept was enough to make Lirka barf on its own merit. Romance was a thing she despised on a religious level, the trivial sort of pursuits that the Dark did not allow for her. But what the Dark did allow? Pettiness. A boundless petty spite that if given the chance would consume the entire Galaxy. No one person in the Galaxy had gained Lirka's spite quite like Trayze Tesar , it was a game to taunt the Acolyte at any given opportunity. To poke and prod at his walls to see how long it would take the Kiffar to give into the darkness in his heart...at least that is the philosophical justification Lirka had given herself.

In reality, it was just plain fun.

A person who had worn many a persona over her long life, imitating some heart-eyed warrior was easy enough after getting used to sucking up to the Sith of the Empire. Let her and the dear captain be kindred spirits in this place. Slather his heart in the pretty words of strength and stability, an ex-mercenary looking to settle down and start a family in some middle-of-nowhere farming world. It was, to Lirka, the pinnacle of comedy.

His text flashed in front of her eyes, and Lirka let out a toothy grin underneath the blank mask of precious metals she wore today: her powersuit had been left aside today so as to not draw too many unwanted eyes, and of course, she did promise the man a nice spar after all. "No bodily harm", how immensely dull.

Poor Trayze would hear the Once-Sephi before he'd see her, finally forging her stealthy approach through the garden.

The thump of heavy footfalls.

The clink of armor plates smacking together.

And a flash of bulging pink musculature before her thick alien accent called out to him, humming with a mixture of malice and glee.

"Sadly, my dearest captain. I didn't wear my boots today."

So her grand ploy revealed, that while they may have asked her to be unarmed: Lirka didn't need a weapon to take a knife to the poor man's heart.

 

[Kirie]

Naboo
Quinn Varanin | Serina Calis
Kaila Irons | Tamsin Graves
~ Girl's Night ~

​

Kirie stepped out of the hotel bathroom, half-empty glass of Corellian Red in hand. She puffed out her chest, waiting for the exclamations of adoration at her costume. She was dressed in a frilly white shirt, with brown culottes with a black belt and worn boots, her hair slicked back in a way she hoped looked dashing. She flashed a triumphant grin and opened her arms wide.

"I'm Zannik Beevils!" Kirie said, drawing a series of blank looks. "From Lady Velvet's The Zealous Zabrak?" She searched the eyes of her companions, desperately looking for even the smallest spark of recognition. "You know, he has a thick accent and an even thicker..."

"Nevermind."

Kirie looked at Quinn, horrified, finally noticing what everybody else was wearing. They all looked amazing, they all looked stunning. Worse, not a single one of them was dressed as a Lady Velvet character. In fact, they had dressed nicer than Kirie had ever seen before. Quinn was wearing even wearing a crown. All at once, Kirie was struck by the terrible, awful realisation that she had woefully misunderstood the evening's theme.

"You told me we were dressing up!" Kirie said, aghast. She pointed an accusing finger at Quinn. "I'M DRESSED LIKE A STABLE BOY!" Kirie leaned against the wall and slowly slid down, until she was sitting, defeated, hanging her head in shame. She waited until Quinn had come over to her and tugged mournfully at her dress. "Please please pleeease tell me you brought a spare outfit."

Quinn did in fact have something she could wear: a short black dress with fine black cloth and tulle sleeves. It was more of a party dress than the event's more dressed-up theme, but once Kirie had added a few stacked gold necklaces and a pair of dangly earrings, she considered herself sufficiently fancy. She finished the look with a glittery eyeshadow, shimmering highlights, and red lipstick, sticking her hair up into a cute updo held by a pin at the back, instead of her original slicked-back look.

It had all come together rather nicely, considering her woeful start to the night, and Quinn's fine clothes and expensive jewelry flattered her more than anything she had ever owned herself.

Following in behind Quinn and Serina, Kirie gave the pair a shy smile and joined them in taking a glass of sparkling wine. She wasn't usually a parties kind of a person, but it had been a hard month, and she really needed something to perk her up. Besides, the decor was charming and everyone was dressed to the nines, so Kirie figured she may as well make the most of it.

Kirie raised her glass alongside Serina, looking to each of her companions with warmth.

"To a perfect night" she echoed. "One to remember."

 

[Reese Helfire]

Location: Naboo
Theme: Lithium flower
Outfit: [X}
Tags: Open

---

Reese looked themselves over in the mirror, everything looked perfect. They didn't know what the hell they were doing going to this silly little event. All they got was a stupid note saying they needed to be there no explanation just the helfire brand at the bottom of the note. Reese didn't even know anything about this Lady Velvet author, well didn't the last three days they had been binge reading all the smut this velvet chick published.

It was all useless knowledge they would try to purge from their mind the moment this mission or whatever it was ended. Reese had even delved deep into the conspiracy theories about who Lady Velvet was in most depraved parts of the holonet no one should go to. Reese's best guess a sheltered virgin with agoraphobia who knew nothing about the real world. The people who read this crap teenage girls who thought a prince charming would woo them.

Still Reese had a part to play so adoring fan it was, it was time to put on their best fanboy/girl face. As they looked themselves up and down in the mirror, they just shook their head and thought to themselves, what the hell were they doing? As Reese put a top hat on over their shoulder length raven black shoulder length wig. "Knockem dead." Reese smirked and winked at themselves in the mirror before turning and heading out.

---

The zinder people putting on this little festivity handed Reese a little pamphlet with all the amazing things you could do. From ballroom dancing, a stroll in the gardens, or a tour for main events plus a few side activities. All themed for his or her pleasure in the worlds of Lady Velvet. Reese mused over them for a moment, the damn note didn't tell them where they needed to be.

The tour was out of the question way to contained an isolated for a private conversation. So, Reese's best guess was either the Garden or ballroom, then again one of the other isolated events maybe. For the time though Reese decided a stroll in the Gardens wouldn't be a bad place to start they could wander to the Ballroom later. Unknown to Reese there was no one here for them to meet, it just happened the head of hellfire syndicate was just a big fan of Lady velvet and felt Reese could use some culture. So, Reese began their big adventure into romance fantasy by a nice stroll through the Gardens.

Today Reese was a lady velvet fan named Dorian Wendal, tomorrow hopefully they could be someone else with better taste.

 

[Saul Whesai]

​

Outfit
Tag: Reese Helfire

​

Out of the corner of his eye, Saul saw the flash of blue skin and looked at the Chiss woman in a striking red dress that he had matched with nervously looking around at the crowd of spectators for something to happen. He was about to get up to greet her when he saw just a nervous Mirialan male walk up to her with gifts in tow, looking like he wanted to pronounce his love to her already. Saul couldn't hide his face falling into despair as he watched the two make introductions. Well, at least I know why she didn't reply to my message... The android knew he couldn't dwell on this though Hoisting himself up to his feet, he started to walk into the gardens to clear his mind or at least find a private place to let loose and scream into the air with every curse word he knew.

The android was so occupied was the task of replacing that memory with the displays of flowers and hand-crafted topiaries that he nearly bumped into someone else. As he stood there in mid-process of thinking up an apology, he couldn't help but think how striking the woman. With the period suit she wore, Saul could only guess that maybe she was one of the actors...? Well, that didn't matter now. Now was the time to try to salvage today by meeting someone new. Managing to get his head out of his Android ass, he would offer a hand out to her if she had been knocked to the dirt path or a nod of apology to her if she was still upright. "Apologies Miss, seems like my mind got the best of me there. You alright?" Putting up a half smile, he tried to seem like everything was normal like he was normal. That he wasn't just a tin man without a heart that he felt like right now.

 

[Shan Pavond]

"Elae'ivi'ilmer...Elae'iv'ilomer...I think I'll stick to Eivii . Shan Pavond for me, if my first name isn't enough."

Shan gave an awkward grin at that. He was trying to make a little joke but now that he thought about it, he wasn't sure if he was being rude about it. That would be one way for him to put his damned foot in his mouth. What should he do? Oh. She was holding her hand out. He had read about this in the Lady Velvet books. Shan carefully took her hand and gave Eivii a small bow. He knew normally there'd be the whole kissing the hand but...he was just going to skip out that part.

He tilted his head at the comment about her eyes. It was true they matched her eyes but that was a given, considering she was a Chiss. He couldn't have predicted that she would have had a red dress on. She could have had a blue, a green or even a purple dress on. Come to think of it, did people even wear purple dresses? Wait. No. No. He was letting his mind wander.

"Don't worry about the short comment by the way. I have to deal with teenagers who are taller than me. They're huge. I'm sure some of them could put a young Wookie to shame."

Hopefully Vera and Aris never find out Shan said that. He wouldn't like the inevitable teasing that the two of them would try to get back at him in response. Instead Shan shook his head, turning his attention over towards Eivii.

"Hm...There's not much to know about me. I'm a relatively simple man. Was raised on Nar Shaddaa, studied to become a qualified doctor. Oh. I'm also a Jedi Knight. But don't worry. Today there will be no Jediing...Not sure if that's a word...Anyway. Just consider me a Knight in a suit of...Well...Just a suit."

Shan waved his hand up and down himself, still trying to find a way to make Eivii laugh. Laughter was the best medicine after all!

 

[Tigris]

Objective: BYOO
Location: Main Ballroom
Outfit: Dress
Tag; Everest Vale

As the Echani and Recopian couple entered the interior of the mansion, Tigris quickly took in the surroundings. The rooms were elegant and not far from how she imagined the settings in Lady Velvet's book. She had attended a few events like this, in that past life. But never as a true guest. She slipped in as a thief, a killer, seeking her target. Those old instincts fell into practiced place. Her unusual light and playful mood shifted and appreciation of the elaborate decor was replaced by a keen, observant eye. Tigris now used those skills to protect Eve in case of trouble. Exits, potential cover, hiding places identified and filed away.

Dark almond eyes scanned the guests for any that appeared dangerous or threatening. She spotted some familiar faces, Knight Shan Pavond , who proctored the class where she and Everest met, and Knight Dreidi Xeraic , whom Tigris had briefly met at the temple on Corusascant. The two fellow jedi were good to see.

Everest's eager tug and gesturing towards the holo-photographer broke Tigris' sober observations. She was satisfied of their safety for the moment. Looking down at the silver-eyed Echani brightened features, Eve's tattooed date smirked and nodded, giving the hand in hers a slight squeeze. She guided her date to the droid-run image capturing set up. They stood and waited while a Twi'lek couple had their holo-image captured. Tigris realized just how much Everest affected her, standing so close, hand in hand. the slightly older woman felt a constant warm current that seemed to flow within her, drawing her to the innocent young Echani.

The Twi'lek couple finished and the driod called Eve and Tigris forward. It had a pleasing female voice, a protocol droid, polished and suited for such a refined event. Tigris lead Everest before the optic lens. She released the girl's hand and slipped her arm around Eve's slender waist, gently pulling the silver-haired girl agianst her. Tigris turned her head, so her lip lingered close to Everest's ear. "Now, no making a funny face." She murmured teasingly before looking back at the lens.