Public [Zinder Event] Celebrating Mutually Assured Devotion!

[Tamsin Graves]

Theme: Girls Just Want to Have Fun
Dress: Here
Tags: Quinn Varanin | Kaila Irons | Eira Dyn | Kirie | Serina Calis | Zahari Kaan

Tamsin smiled gratefully as Quinn offered her and Kaila up to explain and teach her the secrets of Lady Velvet's writing and also Kirie. Tamsin though looked at Kaila protested the declaration giving her sister a look of curiosity. It was rare that Kaila didn't want to explain things, the woman could on for days into deep dives of Darth whatever down to what they ate for breakfast almost. Yet here she was refusing to explain this dark Ladies teachings.

What dark secrets did her master not want her to know, now she was even more intrigued by these collection of books. "Wait why not?" Tamsin just blurted it out to Kaila. They were all being way secretive, yet oddly provocative about the subject of this particular dark lord. The demon was being its normal usual helpful by just laughing in the back of her head about it and it seemed to be in on the joke too.

"I bet I could master this Lord Velvet's teachings in a week." Tamsin proclaimed it as her master told her many times, she was a fast learner. With Quinn calling Kaila by her name, it was then Tamsin knew it was acceptable to do so since someone said it first. "Kaila, you need to teach me. I won't fail, and maybe I will teach you something."

She quickly looked at Quinn and Kirie in turn. "If Kaila won't teach me, I will gladly learn from both of you of what this Lady Velvet has to offer." A sense of determination in her voice and eyes that she would show Kaila, if her sister didn't want to teach her, she would learn from someone else. Her ignorance of what Lady Velvet was and the romance novels she wrote, the Demon was cackling up a storm at just howe awkward this was.

She then looked at Eira who had at least some passing knowledge of this dark Lord Velvet. She knew it might anger Kaila but her refusal to teach her made her determined now to learn. "You can teach me too what you know." She was going to turn to Serina and her guest, but they were engaged in their own little conversation to almost beg them to teach her as well. Kaila's refusal to teach her sparked something in her, mostly cause Kaila had never refused to teach her anything she asked before and If she didn't know something she would always tell Tamsin the people or sources that might know.

She reached out and grabbed a glass of something off a tray of nearby waiters passing by, as she finished off the wine in her other glass. This drink wasn't champagne or wine, it was a hot bubbling thick green liquid in a clear glass. Tamsin didn't know what it was but in her frustration with her master's refusal she downed the drink. A Hutt drink that would normally be toxic and corrosive to humans or near humans. Its taste was horrid and burned heavily as it went down, but Tamsin just stood there like it was nothing other than her buzz going up a level. "Nope I don't like this one." She said cassually setting the empty glass of toxic sludge on a passing waiters tray.

 

[Saul Whesai]

He had a foot in the door at least. That was something to thank the Ones for. Saul hoped he wouldn't jam his foot in that same door he had just opened though their new companion's smile told him he was on the right track. "Well, the Sith Order does exist so I would give it a fifty-fifty coin flip at big events like these." They still had to get out of their evil lairs and get their social energy out somehow and events like this gave them safety within the crowds. He couldn't help but flash a smile as he said. "But for you, I'll take the risk."

As they walked, Saul tried to force his heart to calm down as they strolled down the path together, the scents of the plants and flowers filling his nose as he stole glances at the woman beside him. There was something more to her that he couldn't quite place but at this point, he was already neck-deep into whatever he was feeling and he didn't want to stop.

Smirking at the question she asked, he replied "Honestly, I haven't read one yet but if getting involved with them brings me encounters with lovely enchantresses like you I might start. I mostly just came to this event to do something that isn't normal for me. Break out of my comfort zone... The Android thought for a minute about what his favorite book was before remembering something he had downloaded on his holopad during his last long journey. "My favorite book though is probably "The Child Emperor". It's about a young man who has been sent away by his father the emperor. When his father and the royal family of his planet die in a mysterious crash, he has to step up and lead his country despite the sharks of the royal court circling him to take him off his throne. Political dramas like that always can draw my interest in." Taking one more look into the seas of gold that were their eyes, he asked. "Since we are doing 20 questions, what's your name?"

Reese Helfire

 

[Darth Nefaron]

TAGS: Corazona von Ascania Kasir Dorran
EQUIPMENT: Finest Black Robe, Walking Stick


“I suppose this charade could only last so long."
​

It was then that the Sith Lord disregarded any pretense of a disguise. He rose back to his full height, allowing the walking stick to be cast aside. It was then that he attended to his hand, the torn that had so conveniently jabbed his finger had managed to draw blood. The black substance gathered at the tip of his finger, and perhaps as an act of revenge against the treacherous garden he allowed it to drip from his finger onto a bushel of Queens Heart, the flower was native to Naboo and Nefaron took great pleasure in watching the bushel shrivel a drop of his rancid poisoned's very core.

"You are correct, my lady, I have failed to address you properly."​

The Dark Lord bowed theatrically, mocking the very practice itself considering the Princess had cast aside her royal title in favor of her position with the Jedi. If only she would embrace the nobility in her blood, that self-aggrandizing attitude would have been the perfect lure to the Dark Side. On could scarce imagine the power of the Caretaker of the First Knowlege should she embrace the darkness within her. With such a weapon, Nefaron could bring death to a thousand systems, he could destroy his rivals and laugh as the best of the Jedi became his servant.

Mere dreams.

But he could torment her all the same.

"My sincerest apologies, Lady Corazona von Ascania of Ukatis."​

Nefaron rose, arms folding behind his back as he stood across from his companion. He hesitated to call her an adversary, as they were simply talking. She made no attempt to deter him, and so he would offer the same in return.

"My studies are those of passion, my lady. Emotion is the fuel of the Dark Side and there is no more useful emotion than lust. How many men have waged war for a beautiful young woman? How many Jedi have fallen to Darkness for the sake of the one they love?"

The Corpse Lord paused, considering the works of which he referenced. How could she be so blind? Surely she had been reading the same texts as he was?

"Lady Velvet has compiled works of pure emotion. The women in these tales toss aside all considerations except for their passions. This is to be commended, for embracing one's passion is the first step to embracing the Dark Side. But our gracious author seems to be under the impression that one can embrace their passions while remaining pure. This is a deception, one either consciously inserted by one who has embraced the Dark Side-"

Nefaron paced away for a moment, thinking out loud as he did. He stopped dead in his tracks after a few steps, freezing in place before slowly raising one of his hands, a single wretched finger rising as if he had come to some great revelation.

"-Or one who has such Darkness within them, but is forced to express them in a more... careful manner."

Nefaron turned then, slowly approaching the Jedi as he continued to speak.

"While the tale of a Sith Lord's failed assault on a pathetic planet is quite the tale, allow me to pitch a few of my own-"

The Revelation
​

"Why don't we discuss the tale of a noble Jedi who fails to defeat a Sith Lord? She is taken, dragged before this Sith's Master, and deemed to be nothing but a distraction. Though she manages to escape her captor, she does not manage to do so unharmed."

Ever closer the Sith grows, but he still does not give the Jedi a moment to interject, instead choosing to launch into another possible tale.

"Oh far too simple. Why don't we discuss the tale of a beautiful princess finally marrying her prince, a spectacle all the galaxy is privy to. Yet it is so unfortunate that the lovely couple must part in such terrible tragedy, for the prince... suffered an accident. One must truly feel for the poor man, to fall to one's death must be a rather terrifying experience."

Nefaron stops, only a few feet separating the pair now, the wretched smile on his lipless face all too apparent now.

"Luckily for this Jedi, her story will end the same way regardless."

The Corpse Lord leans in slightly, his smile turning into a cruel grimace

"In Darkness. Her passions will be her undoing."

​

 

[Trayze Tesar]

---

CURRENT MISSION - Love Drives All Men M.A.D.
Immediate Goals -
1: Show your partner a good time.
1.1: Get under Lirka Ka 's skin.
1.2: Kick her karkin' arse
2: Have yourself some fun despite the circumstances.

BLUFOR - Darth Malum of House Marr

OPFOR - No enemies, just annoyances...

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

---

"Maybe there is, maybe there isn't..." he answered cryptically. His reach shortened, his focus sharpened, and the stakes were made clear. There would be a few last gasps of courtesy, allowing the lady to ascend first, prepare as she would wish, and approach in a boxer's stance.

Lirka was correct, this mercy pass between two boxers, where the two combatants would bump their forearms once before descending into bloody frenzy was crass and crude. But the Kiffar wondered where she got off in terms of conduct, being a pit-slave.

But these would be the final courtesies - the fight was for first blood, and he would indulge in the Darkness for a moment, envisioning Lirka of everything wrong, a lackey of the Force that Devours. He would make her bleed, he would take her mask, and she would find salt upon her wounds.

Trayze Tesar wondered what his cousin would think of him in this state...?

 

[Lirka Ka]

Lirka gave him a glance that was purely unamused. Really, now he was going to be all cryptic? Oh how she detested the youth sometimes. That was about as close she’d ever get to inviting him on a “date”, but if that barest level of coyness wouldn’t work. She’d need to take a more direct approach.

As they approached the circle, Lirka rolled her shoulders and let her muscles twitch and writhe in anticipation. She took her stance, defensive at first. And let her challenge utter out.

“ Trayze Tesar , this bout is unsuitable. I deem you a weakling and coward, and challenge you to single combat in a true Arena. Where warriors may prove their honor, accept and prove yourself. Or deny me and prove that an old woman is mightier than you; Prove to me you are unworthy to stand before a servant of the Butcher-King.”

Perhaps she was trying to upset him before they fought, perhaps not. But really, this was about the most direct way she’d ever ask for something close to a “date” in her twisted worldview. It wasn’t an unfounded challenge either, she did believe him such things and would gladly besmirch his honor to say it.

She waited for him now, to take stance and to respond. She needed this little play fight over with quick, the idea of real gladiatorial combat was too tantalizing.

 

[Alana Calloway]

.​

Zinder Event​

​

Tags: Valery Noble​

Outfit: Here​

The music played on, distant and hollow, like it belonged to another world—one she wasn't a part of. Laughter rang out, voices tangled in lighthearted chatter, but none of it reached her.

Alana stood there, pressing her back against the wall, fingers curling into her sleeves. She couldn't place it, couldn't name it, but the ache in her chest only grew heavier the more she tried to ignore it.

She had lost someone.

That much was certain.

But the details were like smoke slipping through her fingers. A name she couldn't grasp. A face she should have known. The warmth of something real that had been scrubbed clean from her mind, leaving only the hollowed-out remains of what once was.

A sharp inhale—steady, controlled. She forced herself to focus.

The present.

The now.

But the memories weren't done with her. Like a current, they swept her away. It was this place, she had to-

"Not the best place to raise a kid but it was better than-

What was wrong with her?

"Wrong with you?"

Why couldn't she remember-

"Designation's K0-NR, or, y'know, Konor."

Konor. Konor. Konor. She clung to it, like a man dying at sea, trying to remember as static began to surround her-

"Names Alana, sugar, now what's your designation? Man walking around looking like you, makes you look all official."

Were they her friends? These voices, why did they-

"I don't have that many friends either"

If she had friends then what-

"They tend to die"

Her breath hitched. A spark of something—something deeper than the conditioning, something untouched by the careful rewrites and empty reassurances of her new life.

Was it real?

Or was it just another cruel joke her mind was playing on her?

Why did it make her feel this way....why did she feel like she was missing something?

Alana pressed her palms into her eyes, willing the noise, the faces, the feeling away.

But it lingered.

And for the first time in a long, long while—she was afraid to let it go.

So she sunk away, retreating from the people, the threats of remembering, wanting to drown in the past. Just a little longer.

 

[Kirie]

Naboo
Quinn Varanin | Serina Calis | Kaila Irons | Tamsin Graves | Eira Dyn
~ Girls Night ~​

"Avid reader, hmm? That's good to know. Maybe you and Kaila can compare notes."

Kirie nearly choked on her new glass of wine. She coughed and sputtered, and shot Kaila a guilty glance, embarassed, as if she had been caught doing something wrong. She turned back to Serina suddenly, realising that in her anxious overthinking, she'd neglected to answer.

"Oh, uh. Yeah, maybe we can hold a book club?" Kirie offered, her voice slightly strangled. Serina peeled away from the group, and Kirie was secretly glad. Not because she didn't like her, quite the opposite, but because Kirie felt like Serina's pale blue eyes were gazing into her soul.

"Oh, and I know Kirie is practically a connoisseur on all things Lady Velvet; she's told me so - she knows the plot lines so deeply and thoroughly."

It was like she was under attack from all sides.

This time, Kirie just barely managed to keep her composure. Warmth spread from the centre of her body, making her fingers and toes tingle. She bit her lip at Quinn's comment, and then, realising the attention of the room was turning to her, Kirie flashed a pearly smile and framed her face with her free hand. The gesture was playful and carefree, despite the fact that Kirie's heart was thundering in her chest. 'I'm just an angel.' it seemed to say. But the servant girl denied nothing. Oh, she was gonna get Quinn for that one later. Kirie straightened up and fixed her hair, gladly accepting another a drink as the waiter hurried over with another tray. He didn't make it past their little group before the tray was empty, and he had to turn back to the kitchens.

Kirie had been expecting Quinn to tease her, so she'd been ready for it, and though the words had made her giddy, she'd actually done a pretty good job of keeping her cool. She was proud of herself. She saw Kaila lean in to whisper something in Quinn's ear and she gave the pair a small smile. Buoyed by her false confidence, Kirie was not the slightest bit prepared for what came next.

"Is she also skilled in Lady Velvet's arts? I hope she's keeping you entertained on Jutrand. You two always made for something of a fairy tale. The princess and her handmaid."

"Or do you prefer she roleplay the stable boy? It was quite a faithful recreation, that cute little costume."

"KAILA!?" Kirie looked at the Sith, horrified, her eyes displaying total shock, then betrayal, then something else. When her thinking brain caught up, Kirie slapped a hand over her mouth. She hadn't meant to yell. Was that a name she was allowed to shout across across a room?

Stars. she was way too tipsy to deal with this.

"I- uh." Kirie stammered. "No- I didn't, I wouldn't say-" All of her previous cool had been shattered in the aftermath of Kaila's friendly fire, and the young servant had turned red from her pretty painted lips to the burning tips of her ears. "I was on your side." Kirie finally managed, her voice accusing, throwing her hands up in dismay. Quinn she had been ready for, and even with Serina she'd known the woman had a tendency to prod, But Kaila? She was supposed to be the stoic one. The Sith's teasing words swirled around her head. It really was like a fairy tale. The Princess, her Servant... And her Knight.

Tamsin spoke up, and Kirie hoped for a desperate moment she would change the subject to something that wouldn't make Kirie want to melt into the ground.

She didn't.

"If Kaila won't teach me, I will gladly learn from both of you of what this Lady Velvet has to offer."

Kirie buried her face into her hands. She felt like half of the party was looking at them. Probably they were, they were certainly loud enough. She was being tested tonight.

"I cannot believe you people are my friends." said Kirie. Her voice was exasperated, but she couldn't hide her smile.

"Well, thank you, perhaps I will get a chance to dance in the dress before the night is over."

Kirie nodded eagerly, grateful for a distraction from the conversation which was not so much spiralling as it had crashed and burned.

"Yes!" Kirie exclaimed with a little too much enthusiasm. "Come, Eira, let's dance! These three are being absolute beasts anyway." Kirie held out a hand— manicured, a rare sight for her—for Eira to take, and led the apprentice the short distance to the dance floor. Kirie looked over her shoulder, gesturing frantically for the rest of the group save Serina, who was off chatting up a pretty looking Togruta, to come join them on the dance floor. "Come on!" She exclaimed, sculling the rest of her drink and placing it on a table still half full of guests, ignoring them completely.

"I'll lead." Kirie said with some authority, taking Eira's hand again. The music was a little upbeat to slow dance, so Kirie and Eira swayed back and forth, with vigour, the servant throwing in creative and slightly disorganised moves to make her dance partner smile.

How long had it been since she'd been to a party? This really was a perfect night.

 

[Quinn Varanin]

//: Ballroom //:
//: Naboo, Lady Velvet Manor //:
//: Dress //:
Direct: //: Kaila Irons //: Kirie //: Tamsin Graves //: Eira Dyn //:
Mention: //: Serina Calis //: Zahari Kaan //:
//: Girl's Night //:

its a long mix so stop when you want

​

Quinn mused over the chiding of her apprentice; it seemed the woman was determined to make sure the Princess didn't make a complete fool of herself. There was a small appreciation for it, and Quinn knew the reason behind the concern. Eira was right; she should have paced herself a bit better. At least with champagne, the Echani typically avoided getting sick to her stomach. It was when she started to mix or get her hands on something harder. Elegant parties and the like were usually always served with wine and champagne. Still, while being able to avoid sickness during the drinking - she typically found herself wanting to stay in bed for as long as possible the following day.

Tilting her head, she made eye contact with the dark apprentice. She wrinkled her nose and allowed her mind to open their developing bond. << I'll be fine; I appreciate your concern, my apprentice. If I get sick, please hold my hair back and rub my back.>> Quinn teased and protected her mind once more.

It was then Quinn, watching Kaila from the corner of her eye, down the drink she had given. Her eyebrows raised, knowing that the blonde had a high tolerance, but she wondered if there was ever an end to it. Kaila seemed to be hitting her limit from the pushing, which made Quinn pleased in a way. It was a side of the Darth she hadn't been able to reach. She wanted more; she wanted to see more - she wanted to see past that limit. It seemed like the Princess' desire would come true as she was moved, protected from prying eyes as the taller blonde leaned in, brushing her warm breath against the young royal's ear. The woman's words elicited a chuckle from the Princess. She enjoyed playing this game with the Vahla; it would be her favorite in the future.

She leaned away after the gentle kiss, which spoke volumes about what Kaila wanted when she eventually got the Echani alone. Quinn only gave her usual mischievous grin in response to the comments made by the woman. She looked forward to this retaliation.

As soon as Quinn wondered what it would be, Kaila pulled the trigger, and poor Kirie was the lamb for the sacrifice. Her jaw dropped as Kaila went straight for the lamb's throat. She laughed as Kalia spilled the inner secrets of Quinn's bedroom evenings with the servant girl. The Princess needed to say nothing as Kirie suddenly burst out in a pitch that only Quinn had heard behind closed doors.

The blushing Princess kept her mouth shut and sipped the champagne faster than she had initially wanted. Kaila had gotten her back but dragged poor Kirie through it to win. Quinn smiled sheepishly to Kirie, hoping the handmaiden would forgive her, especially with what she said afterward, "While I do enjoy the stable boy, I'm more of a butler and tie kind of Princess." She tilted the champagne glass absentmindedly as she corrected Kaila's question about the happenings back on Jutrand between them. Her eyebrows were raised as she remembered why she didn't bother correcting poor Kirie when she had asked about the costume part of the dress attire. The rest of the group continued to lay into the poor girl, and Quinn winced a little with each moment. It seemed the quiet maid had become the target, and Quinn mouthed 'sorry' to her the moment their eyes met. At least there was some reprieve; Kirie dragged Eira to the dance floor, which meant she could have more drinks, and Kirie got to know Eira better.

There was another thought whose outburst had caused entertainment. Waltzing up to Tamsin, she watched the girl down the toxic drink and saw nothing happened to her. Blinking, she would lock away that memory for a later time. Quinn smiled sweetly to the shorter acolyte, "Well, I'm sure you'd do fantastic m'dear. Probably one of the best masters of Lady Velvet's technique." Her eyes glanced at Kaila, and she knew she would pay for the next thing she said. "Maybe your Master and I can figure something out so you and Eira could train together - though in a few years, I wouldn't mind showing you a thing or two - you can always ask me questions, of course." Quinn was just playing it up, knowing that once Tamsin realized what Lady Velvet was, she would probably melt or explode where she stood. Thankfully, whatever lurked inside her head, the brains to keep her alive.

"I need to borrow your master for a moment, but afterward, I'm sure she'll sit and explain everything, Lady Velvet, to you." A hand patted Tamsin's shoulder, and she turned toward Kaila. They were mostly alone now, minus Tamsin, but she figured the girl would be looking for anything else to drink.

Quinn stopped in front of the taller blonde, her eyes glancing. She saw that everyone, including Serina and her new beau, was occupied - even the brooding one she had felt entering moments prior. Near where they were standing was the garden entrance, and thankfully, there was a little shadowed nook near the doorway that people were passing through. It was hidden from all prying eyes. A hand carefully wrapped around the woman's tie, her thumb running up and down the front till she pulled it, dragging the Vahla behind her. Quinn turned, putting her back to the wall; she looked up towards those beautiful citrine eyes. Using the tie, Quinn dragged the woman closer as she whispered, "I play with fire because it gets you so worked up," Quinn continued to pull on the tie till her fingertips gently touched her Knight's face. Quickly, in the guise of the shadow, the Princess stole a brief and gentle kiss from her protector. Hopefully, providing the woman some reprieve from the teasing and the build-up. Her hands patted the decorated lapels of Kaila's suit, "You should explain something about Lady Velvet to Tamsin, or she's going to drag Eira somewhere, and we all know how that would end. Also make sure her stomach's okay, I'm pretty sure what she drank wasn't for near humans." Quinn chuckled, and she slipped out quickly from the wall and the shadows dragging Kaila by the hand.

"Tamsin! I've convinced Kaila to explain things to you." there was a giddiness in the Princess's voice as she gently patted her paramour's chest. "You got this; I have something to take care of." Quinn gave one more smile and glanced between the two sisters as she walked by and headed towards the little storm cloud ( Darth Malum of House Marr ) that seemed lost in his reminiscing. A hand-held her dress as the Princess forced her way into his eye line. "Hello, Mr. Dark and Gloomy. What has gotten you so down? We're at a party, not a funeral." Quinn jested to Malum as she made sure he had seen her.

In a very Echani way of greeting, she nudged his shoulder and continued to smile. The flush on her cheeks revealed that she was already quite intoxicated. However, she still grabbed two more champagne glasses from the waiter, who seemed to have been following her the whole night. "Here," she offered and then nodded toward the brunette waiter. "He's really good at his job." She laughed in an almost goofy manner, something not many beyond her closest had heard before.

"So what's got you down?"

 

[Zahari Kaan]

Wearing: Dress
Tag: Serina Calis

Zahari followed at a purposefully awkward, hurried pace, which began to slow into something with a little more grace as they put distance behind them.

She wore a faint yet pleased smile, hands folded in front of her as she walked. For all intents and purposes, she looked like all the other nobles–real or pretend– not a thing out of place. Although that was the problem, there was nothing to put a place to, not even a sound heard as she walked behind Serina. Was she following, was she close to her guide or far and lost? Without the force, there was no other indication.

Not until she hummed in response to the question, the sound of her youthful voice far closer than it had once been.

"Hmm." their eyes met but momentarily as Serina glanced over her shoulder, before her own began to drift in thought.

"It's simple, actually."

She hummed, surprised it was even a question.

"We togruta have excellent hearing you know," she gently poked at her montral.

"I could hear them all talking to one another, but you? you were silent as the grave when I came. Else, we wouldn't have bumped into each other."

A half truth of course. Another togruta would have indeed stopped just short of collision, had Serina been talking as much as the others, their sense of echolocation strong in such close proximity, even if blurred by the abundance of sound tonight. But of course, Zahari was not blindly wandering as she pretended.

"I noticed, after our collision, that everyone else had huddled into pairs while you all conversed. Of course, you were on the edge of the crowd, your glass practically full before it spilt, that human skin of yours so fair, untouched by the indulgence which claimed your... friends." she used the word hesitantly, and purposefully so.


"The locations change, but the party's always the same. I know what I'm looking at."

Zahari lifted a painted brow at the young woman.

"So were you stood up too? or did they drag you here?"

"Or... maybe guilt brought you here?" she hummed with curious interest, a bit of herself bleeding into that voice.


"So many interesting people. Which one are you, I wonder."

​

 

[Eira Dyn]

​

Location: Naboo
Outfit: Dress
Equipment: Hidden daggers
Tag: Kirie | Quinn Varanin | Tamsin Graves | Kaila Irons | Serina Calis | Zahari Kaan

Things were spiralling quickly and it seemed to stem to her Master. It seemed that Eira underestimated how much chaos her Master would be willing to create within the group. Even hearing her Master's message and the demand that she hold her hair and rub her back, Eira caught Quinn's eyes and rolled her crimson blood eyes slowly. While she did not give an answer with words, the smirk on her lips and body language would give Quinn the answer that of course Eira would look after her.

Hearing Tamsin and Kaila's outbursts, one that was focused on attempting to understand what Lady Velvet's secrets were about while the other was focused on spilling Quinn's secrets very publicly. Eira started to wonder if she was actually in a Lady Velvet, a thought that made her shudder. The high drama and reveals, it was wild. When Tamsin stated that she would learn Lady Velvet's secrets from Eira, Eira smirked to Kaila and gave a dangerous, but flirtatious wink. Kaila knew exactly what trouble Eira could make if she was given too much freedom.

"Well, Tamsin, Lady Velvet is simply just a romance-" Eira began before she was pulled away by Kirie who demanded a dance.

Something that Eira would not refuse the handmaiden. She had been targeted by the others with their teasing for a bit and clearly she needed to get away just for a bit. To regather her thoughts, potentially plot ways to get revenge. Eira was more than happy to offer that distraction. However, she was caught off guard when Kirie stated she would lead in the dancing. Eira had never been good at following in dancing, especially since it meant that she had to surrender control. Something that she was not the best at.

Stumbling in the first few movements as she attempted to adjust to the rhythm being set by Kirie, Eira had to give a small smile, "sorry, I am not used to following when dancing. Hopefully this isn't too awful for you." Eira apologised since she did not wish to ruin Kirie's evening with a poor dancing experience. Eira attempted to focus more on the dancing. Moving with some more grace and elegance, adjusting to following the lead set by Kirie more.

 

[Serina Calis]

Location 1.
Tags: Zahari Kaan
​

Serina's steps never faltered, but a slow, delicious smirk spread across her lips.

Oh, this one was good.

She had expected a simple game—something shallow, something to pass the time. A meaningless dance of pleasantries and false sincerity, a pleasant distraction at best. But no.

Zahari had teeth.

And Serina found herself very interested in seeing how sharp they really were.

She let the silence hang between them, unbroken for a few moments longer than necessary, letting the Togruta's words settle, letting the weight of them press into the air like an unspoken challenge.

Serina never broke her stride, never let a single flicker of her inner thoughts betray themselves. But when she finally responded, her voice had shifted—just slightly. Just enough.

Lower now. Smoother. Less playful, more dangerous.

"You're perceptive," she admitted, turning her head just enough that Zahari could catch the faint glint in her dagger blue eyes. "I like that."

The compliment was deliberate, as was the way she let her gaze flicker over the Togruta—measuring, calculating, considering.

Oh yes. This would be fun.

Serina came to a slow stop at the entrance to the bar, resting one gloved hand against the doorway as she turned to face Zahari fully now, giving her the attention she was clearly angling for.

"Stood up?" she repeated, as if the very idea amused her.

Serina laughed.

A quiet sound. A knowing sound.

"I don't get stood up, sweetheart," she murmured, taking a single step forward—just enough to close the distance, just enough to let the Togruta feel the shift in the air between them.

She tilted her head ever so slightly, studying Zahari's face like she was a puzzle to be solved, like she was a curiosity worth unraveling.

The way she had hesitated before saying friends—that had been deliberate. The way she had spoken of guilt—even more so.

Serina didn't take the bait. Not yet.

Instead, she let her smirk widen just a little, as if she was truly entertained by the boldness of Zahari's approach.

"I could tell you, you know," she mused, her tone dipping into something softer, more intimate. "Exactly which one I am. But where's the fun in that?"

She lifted her glass, the golden liquid catching the light as she swirled it absently.

"I think I'd rather hear what you think."

Serina arched one brow, her gaze steady, waiting, watching.

"Go on, Zahari," she invited, her voice a silk-covered dagger, her smirk sharp and amused.

"Tell me what you see."

 

[Tarw Rhyfelwr]

Location: Attempting to sneak out with the signed Lady Velvet novel
Attire: Fancy suit
Tag: Valery Noble

He didn't know why he was attending this Lady Velvet event. He hadn't been successful in finding a match and this seemed to be a party very much intended for couples with the dancing, sparring and wandering around the restored manor. Tarw had decided to come for mostly one reason. He was a massive fan of Lady Velvet, but he couldn't let others know of that secret. Her novel that was about a Mandalorian spoke so deeply to Tarw that he read the novel nearly half a dozen times and he was surprised at the relatability of the Mandalorian. He even investigated if fans believed that Lady Velvet might have been Mandalorian herself for writing such a well rounded character.

However, the consensus online had been divided with there being many thinking of differing origins for the writer. But it was a demonstration of how much of a fan that Tarw had become quickly. He did not think himself much of a romance genre fan originally but when he began reading the novels, he was just addicted and could not help loving the style and genre.

Of course, he could not let his squad know of this secret and he knew that if they learned of the secret that he would be teased endlessly.

Though he also was such a fan that he was donning a fancy, elegant sailor attire, figuring it would be suiting for the setting that they were meant to be in. The attire was something that he had debated on since he was intrigued in appearing as the main love interest Mandalorian from his favourite novel but he couldn't bring himself to going that fair with the dedication. Instead, he thought this would be something that would appeal to other unattached singles in the area if he was so fortunate. It was also ideal in hiding his recently purchased signed copy of Lady Velvet.

Another fighting culture novel was something Tarw was excited to read about.

As he was leaving the store, his mind distracted about potentially purchasing other merchandise of the Lady Velvet collection, something small to be on his desk at home. He bumped into a female in a stunning red dress. Tarw blushed instantly and noted the mask hid their identity, but Tarw recognised them quickly enough as he coughed, feeling even more embarrassed now. "I am so sorry, Valery." He whispered, not wanting to announce the Jedi Master so loudly. "I was lost in my own thoughts and didn't see you there." He started to scratch the back of his head in nerves. He had hoped to avoid crossing paths with anyone he knew while coming here.

He was even more surprised that the very married Jedi Master would be attending a Zinder event.

 

[Reese Helfire]

Location: Naboo
Theme: Lithium flower
Outfit: [X}
Tags: Saul Whesai

---

"Well good news for you, I am not a sith." Well not today anyway Reese thought to themselves but tomorrow who knew. Shoot they could be a jedi tomorrow too for all they knew, that would be wild though they were sure they could totally pull off the monk look with little effort.

Reese listened to the man's answer of not exactly being a fan of the books or even having had read them. That was interesting coming to this zinder sponsored themed event and not knowing the source material. They were almost jealous, wishing they hadn't crammed all that brain rot before coming here. Reese almost wanted to admit they had only read them for a cover in case they were quizzed or something kept that to themselves.

"The child Emperor, I may have read that once upon time the story sounds vaguely familiar to me." Had they read it or was it just a very common gerne story. Reese thought on it for a bit as they walked and talked through the garden. Reese was not unaware of the flattering words he sent their way. Though in truth they weren't used to them, at least, not dressed like they were. She did find the man charming though in the way he carried himself and talked he was not one seemingly afraid of engaging total strangers. "I read mostly historical fiction, but dabble in a little of everything else from time to time." Then they weren't to be total strangers for too long as he asked for Reese's name.

Reese hesitated for a moment thinking about whether to give him their cover name or their real name. This wasn't a business transaction, this was just a casual conversation, so Reese went with the lie. "Names Dorian, Dorian Wendal. It only proper etiquette I ask for your name then?"

 

[Corazona von Ascania]

Tags | Darth Nefaron
​

When the Lord tossed his cane aside, Cora wondered if they were about to come to physical blows. She eyed the dark, inky blood as it dripped from his finger. It landed in dribbling streaks over the garnet blossoms.

Black against red.

The flowers wilted beneath the poison in Nefaron's veins as he taunted her with her own public failures. Cora frowned, if not for the content of his words, then for his audacity. Much of it rang hollow, lacking the intimacy that would truly sting her.

He leaned in, bearing his teeth in a mocking snarl of a smile. Cora drew her fan with a flourish between them, a thin partition ensuring that only their eyes met.

"Go on," she said softly. "And then, what happens?"

Cora's gaze was bright and clear, searching the corpse's twisted presence. She withdrew after a beat and knelt at the edge of the flowerbed, carefully smoothing her skirt beneath her knees as she settled. After setting the candlewick blossom down at her side, she retrieved one of the blooms he'd ripped from its home and nestled it back into the earth. Two fingers pressed to the dirt, ensuring that the roots would take hold.

"You've described the opening acts rather well - the unfortunate moments designed to build tension. The mistakes, the failures, the wavering. I propose an alternate ending to your indulgent fiction-"

She continued to work, deft hands planting each wayward flower back into its place at a steady pace.

"She finds her place in the Light again, contented with what she has, knowing what she does not want. Perhaps you'd find that boring, but the truth is often…"

Cora's fingers moved over the dried husk of Queen's Heart. She traced over petals, down stems and across leaves, breathing new life into the desiccated plant as she did so. Muted browns flushed into deep, vivid reds as wilting stalks rose to meet the sunlight above them.

"…unremarkable."

 

[Saul Whesai]

He couldn't help but chuckle as Reese's mind seemed high in the clouds. "No, you seem more like a woman who would fight with a blaster in your hands like a secret agent." Saul could imagine it now, her black hair flowing as she danced across the rooftops, clearing anyone away from their path. The thought of her in a black body suit that hugged her curves wasn't unappealing in the least.

Saul nodded along as she talked about what she usually liked to read, his mind swimming as it went through various titles she might like. "Ah, got it. Hmm... Let me guess your favorite era... High Repubic?" Maybe he should have guessed the Galatic Civil War but that seemed too on the nose for him. Dorian seemed to be well-versed enough to have read about all different types of periods so why not guess something a little bit out there?

A grin sprouted across his face as he heard her name for the first time. "Dorian, I can work with that. Saul is all you need for me." Saul was better than his old nickname of Gutterrat in this situation anyway. Chuckling, he couldn't help but comment. "Isn't this the part where I kiss your hand?" And though he was tempted to do just that, he instead opted to walk over to one of the garden's fruit trees, plunking one of its fruits off and tossing it to her. "Here, it's a Shi-shok. Have a taste."

Reese Helfire

 

[Valery Noble]

The impact was unexpected.

One moment, Valery was gracefully weaving through the merchandise room, her eyes locked on the prized signed copies of Mutually Assured Devotion. The next? She collided with something—or rather, someone—broad and solid enough to send a startled gasp past her lips.

Her hands instinctively reached out, steadying herself as she stepped back, her fiery eyes flicking up. Oh. A familiar face. For a split second, Valery just blinked at him, caught between surprise and mortification. But before she could say anything, he spoke.

"I am so sorry, Valery."

Her eyes widened at the sound of her name.

Immediately, she lifted a hand, pressing a finger to her lips in a sharp shush, her golden mask tilting as she threw a quick glance around them. Nobody seemed to be paying attention, but still — her cover was already thin enough as it was. She stepped in just a fraction closer, her voice dropping into a hushed whisper. "That stays between us, got it?" There was a lightness to her tone, but also a very real plea in her gaze. "I'm already getting enough teasing at home as it is."

Maker help her if Kahlil ever caught wind of this encounter.

Letting out a small exhale, Valery shook her head before crossing her arms loosely, her smirk returning. "I'm just here for the book," she assured him, shifting her weight onto one foot. "Nothing more. I grab my copy, and I'm out. Simple."

A pause. Her gaze flicked down to his hands. The elegantly wrapped book tucked under his arm. The very same signed edition she was after. She arched a brow, lips twitching. "I see I'm not the only one who appreciates fine literature."

Oh, she was going to have fun with this.

Tarw Rhyfelwr ​

 

[Katherine Holt]

Dress: Link
Tags: Dreidi Xeraic​

Katherine smiled, nodding in response to Dreidi’s words. “I’m in the same boat, first time wearing something like this. Asked for recommendations, and the moment I mentioned it was a Lady Velvet-style event, they went crazy.” The redhead chuckled, acutely remembering that ‘lightswitch’ moment when the shop attendants sprung into action.

“I had the same issues with these…things.” She replied, raising her arms up to emphasise the material that was hanging loosely from them. “When I was presented with this dress, I asked whether they were necessary, they were aghast at the notion of removing them.” Katherine let out a small laugh, shaking her head.

“Getting something to eat sounds good, maybe something small for now? I imagine once we get into dancing, we’ll build up more of an appetite.” Totally had nothing to do with her stomach feeling like it was doing flips.

With a small smile, Katherine took the initiative and led the way over to where the tables were set up. Fortunately they timed it just right, as one of the staff was present to get them seated.

“What can I get for you both?”

​

 

[Tarw Rhyfelwr]

​

Location: Attempting to sneak out with the signed Lady Velvet novel
Attire: Fancy suit
Tag: Valery Noble

The immediate shush and eyes widening from Valery informed Tarw that he had caught the Jedi Master in a moment that she was not eager to be found in. Which was only confirmed by what she said right afterwards.

Hearing that she was here for the book and nothing more, it caused his eyebrow to raise, "not going to enjoy the sparring that is going on?" Tarw had been tempted to see how well they would recreate the fight from the final act, the one that was meant to be the most intense and dramatic of the sparring fights. However, he was never going to share that information with Valery. That would be much too ammunition against him that he did not want her to have at all.

When she caught him with the novel under his arm. He coughed and shook his head, "it is a mere gift." Tarw stated, he hated himself for having to lie but he was not quite comfortable with himself to share this side of himself. Especially since he was still pretty young and had a reputation as a hotshot. "I came here to collect it so I could give it as a present to a friend."

Though he would struggle to think of a friend's name if Valery probed for such information. "Anyways, it seems you have more to lose here if word got out that the Sword of the Jedi came to a Zinder party for a signed Lady Velvet novel." His eyes glinted with mischief, demonstrating that he was willing to play games with Valery just as much as she dared to play games with him.

 

[Dreidi Xeraic]

​

Location: Ballroom
Outfit: Dress Suit
Tag: Katherine Holt

Dreidi shook her head and chuckled, "I didn't realise Lady Velvet was this popular. I read the first novel, a while back and just didn't think it was much to speak on. Yet here I am, at a Lady Velvet." Dreidi chuckled again as she couldn't believe she was doing this. But it was important, she was needing to move forward in life and with Aileni around, she knew that having someone else to share that experience with would be nice.

It would be good for her and her son.

"I would say just rip them off now, but I think ripping the fabric would not be Lady Velvet proper. At least until one of us is suffering from a cut." Dreidi grinned, selecting a cliché of the romance period dramas. "Well, hopefully after this date, we can meet up again in attire that we are both more comfortable in." Dreidi nodded her head. Not saying there had to be another date, but leaving that opportunity there.

She nodded her head at the suggestion from Katherine, "sure. I'm pretty much always hungry. The cons of my species, high calorific diets. Pro, I struggle to put on weight?" Dreidi shrugged her shoulders with a smirk as they headed over to the tables were food was being served. There seemed to be plenty on for offer and Dreidi was having a struggle to make a decision with all the options.

The witch had gotten more used to organised meal plans at a certain time since she was working around her baby's routine currently.

"What takes your fancy?" Dreidi asked Katherine, hoping that she could get some insight on what looked good.

 

[Kaila Irons]

Wearing: Suit + Tie
Tag: Kirie Quinn Varanin Eira Dyn Tamsin Graves

"Ah yes, You and your ties. Is that why you wanted me to-?"

"KAILA!?"

Her eyes widened, and laughter ceased, as she turned to regard Kirie. Kaila had always known her to be strong in her own way, but outwardly timid, always soft spoken. Always so well behaved, fitting of her role as a handmaiden—or butler—to the princess. This was the first time she'd heard her shout before, and it worried the young lord of Echnos.

"I was on your side."

The look of guilt in her eye was plain to see, her lips subtly twisting wordlessly.

She'd never meant to rake Kirie over the coals like that, or more accurately, she'd never stopped to think about what she was saying. All she really meant to do was get back at Quinn, and ever the task minded agent her master had reforged she'd stopped at nothing to achieve her objective. Even at Kirie's expense.

Victory tasted sour.

"I- I didn't mean-"

"Wait, Kirie-"​

But it was too late, Kirie was running off to dance. She hoped only to dance.


Equally distressing however was the shear panic Tamsin was able to inflict.

"Kaila, you need to teach me. I won't fail, and maybe I will teach you something."

She quickly looked at Quinn and Kirie in turn. "If Kaila won't teach me, I will gladly learn from both of you of what this Lady Velvet has to offer."

"Tamsin no!" she hid her face behind her hands as the cycle began anew.

Even as Kaila thought she might recover, fingers slowly clawing down her reddened face so that she may peek, Eira gave her that look on her way out, and her eyes widened in horror once again as that night in the academy library played out in her head with excruciating detail. Certainly that wasn't the worst fate another sith could inflict upon Tamsin, in fact Eira was quite good at what she does, But thought of her doing those things to her apprentice—her adopted sister—was far from pleasant.

"aah..." Kaila groaned, hiding her face again.

"Eira, I swear to the fanged god..."

"Well, I'm sure you'd do fantastic m'dear. Probably one of the best masters of Lady Velvet's technique." Her eyes glanced at Kaila, and she knew she would pay for the next thing she said. "Maybe your Master and I can figure something out so you and Eira could train together - though in a few years, I wouldn't mind showing you a thing or two - you can always ask me questions, of course."

"FANGED. GOD." she gasped.

Quinn's antics were... an acquired taste, a gateway to addiction, Kaial found. But games or not, these words in particular lit a spark, something territorial, in her knight.

She glared questioningly as Quinn approached, ready to give her a piece of her mind when suddenly the felt a pull.

"Wait- aahh?"

And was dragged off by the tie to some shaded nook.

"I play with fire because it gets you so worked up,"

"Yes. yes It does." she sighed, allowing her molten glare to soften and cool, as she closed her eyes for a moment.

The she stole from the knight was a soothing balm to her burning ache, but far from a remedy. But that did not stop her corrupted eyes glowing when they opened in a stern, sidelong stare into Quinn's.

"Don't tire yourself out too soon, princess. You'll get no sleep tonight."

Leashed or not, she still had teeth. Even if Quinn had the last laugh, for now.

"You should explain something about Lady Velvet to Tamsin, or she's going to drag Eira somewhere, and we all know how that would end. Also make sure her stomach's okay, I'm pretty sure what she drank wasn't for near humans." Quinn chuckled, and she slipped out quickly from the wall and the shadows dragging Kaila by the hand.

"Tamsin! I've convinced Kaila to explain things to you."

It was far too short lived, as were all the moments they'd shared, ever the secret, ever in vigilant for their empire.

"Right..." she swallowed, drowning a soft whine in the back of her throat.

"Duty calls."

She gave Quinn a sad smile, and a gentle squeeze on her shoulder before stepping aside, watching as she went to check in with an old friend, one which caused Kaila a great deal of jealousy in that moment.

But ever the knight, she shook away such selfish thoughts and turned away, gesturing for her apprentice to follow.

"Tamsin," she called.

"A word, please."