Session export: Versea Masquerade: Part One-Welcome to the Estate

Newt steps out of the Taxi, brushing any dust that might have gathered on her clothing on the journey over. After brushing herself off she takes a moment to take in the sight of the ebony gates and hedge maze, and realising she might be out of her depths in this place. Looking over at Tasha'Vel, Newt walks over in a trained pace, bowing and holding out a hand. “Newt Dara, pleasure to meet you ma'am.”

“Thank you, for now I think I’ll wait to see who else might show up.” Newt steps towards the bench and stands next to it, hands behind her back trying to maintain good posture. She will also detach from her belt a plain looking grey mask, and place it over her face.

As the taxi made it’s approach Aurelis adjusted her mask, anyone that really knew her would recognize the red curls regardless of the mask. The taxi came to a stop and the woman climbed out, shaking out the skirts to smooth any wrinkles. She drew her invitation out of a pocket hidden among the folds and stepped towards the massive black gates. Approaching Tasha'vel and showing her invitation,“ I overheard your explanation, exploring sounds like a good timekill.”

Newt will walk towards Aurelis, and bow. “Newt Dara, Nice to make your Acquaintance. Any idea on how the maze can be conquered?”

Aurelis spoke with an Imperial accent,“ Well if you don’t want to wander, just follow one wall, if you feel like taking your time, just waltz along and get lost on purpose. You never know what you might find.”

“Indeed, that shop is Oodles of fun. Though I generally don’t look so glamorous when I’m tallying profit margins.” Aurelis grinned, and turned back to Newt,“ Aurelis Phaelor, though Aure will do just fine.”

“Nice to meet you Aure, and I think the tactical approach might work for me.” Newt will start walking towards the left path, holding out a hand and letting it lead her forward. Newt looks back towards Aurelis, “If you wish to join me, I wouldn’t mind the company.”

Newt crouches down to take a closer look at the shrubs, gently palming over them to see if she can get any sense as to what they are, all the wile being careful not to break or damage anything. Shifting closer to smell them to see if the scent is similar to the other one she’s picked up on.

Standing up Newt will wait to see if Aurelis has followed her. Generally standing back and admiring the beauty of the flora.

Aurelis bid farewell to Tasha, at least for now and followed Newt down the left path,“ Hm, some of these plants are not native to Ryloth, I’m not super familiar with botany, I’d be cautious of touching them willy nilly, we don’t know if they will leave a residue or release anything in the air.”

“That is fair, forgive me. I am often used to wearing a helmet most places I go.” Newt begins walking again, “By the way I didn’t say before but your dress is very fitting for the event, I assume you have been to events like this before?”

“ Not very often, and usually in something a bit more mobile or light, usually I am at work when attending these kinds of events, but tonight is more of a treat for myself than anything.”

“In fact, the last time I attended a formal event like this I was working with another person to infiltrate a child trafficking ring to bring them down.”

“You certainly lead an interesting life. This is my first time at an event like this, I’m much more at home on a ship or somewhere more elevated.”

Aure chuckles,“ I just put the skills I learned growing up towards causes I believe in. Growing up safe happens to be one of them.”

Newt nods her head “I too live by my upbringing, though Im unsure if Military training aboard an old freighter counts for much.” Newt continues up the path “Did you pick up on that sweet smell by the way?”

“I haven’t. Can’t believe I missed it.” she said sounding interested, turning her nose to the air to see if she could smell the sweetness that Newt pointed out.

It took a moment, sorting through memories,“ Impossible…” she muttered, walking a bit faster. Following her nose towards it’s source, turning corners, taking in deep breaths as the smell got stronger.

“Did you figure something out?” Newt will follow after trying to keep up.

How she was so fast in heels was anyone’s guess she came to a halt at the base of the tree, she stared up at the flowering tree,“ This tree, it’s an Oku, native only to New Tython, records state the species was extinct….after New Tython was razed.” she looked on in wonder, taking in the smell.

Newt catches up and attempts to steady her breathing. “Is that someting from your home?”

“ I may have to make some inquiries, to either acquire some seeds, or request a couple clippings of this tree to take home and cultivate.” Aurelis said softly in answer to Vance’s explanation.“ It’s presence would bring reassurance to Odan-urr’s residents…”

“ Oh believe me, I understand. Why I would request clippings, so the tree is protected, rather than just take. I would rather get a no, than endanger the currently only known survivor.”

“Sorry if I am being ignorant, but this tree besides its beauty and rarity, is there anything else of great importance to it?” Newt is circling the tree trying to figure it out.

“Interesting…” Newt will sit on the bench, taking a moment to rest. “I wonder what else is here that has the same rarity as this, Do you know if each clan has been represented in the gardens?”

Newt will get up offering an arm to Aurelis, “If exploration is key, then perhaps we can find more things of interest, after all we do have someone keeping us on schedule.” Newt will nod towards vance.

Aurelis looks at the arm, perhaps a bit of an unexpected gesture, she chuckles softly,“ Taking my advice then?” she loops her arm through Newt’s her hand resting on the woman’s forearm,“ Taking our time it is.”

“I enjoy advice, that and I can turn it into an order. Let’s see what else we can find.” Newt will begin walking off towards an opening leading from the tree.

“You said you took down a trafficking ring, how did that work out?” Newt looks to Aure, head slightly cocked to listen.

“ Mostly smoothly, everything went about 90 degrees towards the end, but that was expected. Luckily I had partnered with someone stronger for the mission. I would have been okay, but he was instrumental in the whole thing.”

“Glad to hear it went well” Newt continues wandering

Newt is continuing to look around and see if there is anything interesting to be seen currently. Taking in the sights of the garden, and doing her best to keep in shape.

Newt walks towards the red and gold trees to inspect them, keeping her hands away from them as she had been instructed to do by Aurelis.

“Alk. Allllk, krom.” It was a common refrain. The sunset-colored creature in a verdant floral dress and askew mask continued to herd his ambassador out of the hedge maze. No, not as in navigating. Literally out of the hedge. Because he was eating it. More oddly lilting, higher pitched Shiryyywook growls followed. “Alk, no. Come here. There is food elsewhere!”

Nevermind he’d eaten before they came or that Tasha'Vel had many wonderful foods suitable for the Mott, All simply wanted the hedge. It was very handsome and clearly not meant for eating.

As usual, though, the waifish hybrid was being tugged around by the pygmy Mott. Alk took another chomp, twigs gathering on the lapels of his tiny tuxedo jacket.

“Jelc!” Rue finally called over in defeat. His adopted Kendis brother, whose horns now wore some of the white, gold, and red ribbons that had been in Rue’s braids to mark their clan, was on duty, but he had said he was available to help with anything for the guests. And Rue didn’t want to disgrace Lady Tasha and little Lynna by having their gardens eaten. They had been so kind to him already to trust him with their family. “Can Sir grab him please? Gently.”

<@1385116824814878940> <@267489687902486530>

“Aure, do you think anyone else has show up yet, or do you think its still just us around?” Newt is staring up into the canopy of the trees.

“ I thought I heard another taxi but it’s hard to say, we’re pretty far into the maze by now.” she said, observing the flowers they were passing by.

“True, It would be nice to meet some new people. I haven’t had the time to socialise much.”

“ The festivities haven’t even really started yet, there’s plenty of time.”

“It’s different to what I’m used to, but still fun. The hedge maze is nice too, still feels like the halls of a space craft.”

“Don’t you think this is a bad idea? My calculations indicate that our chances of avoiding discovery ar–”

Taro raised a slender finger to cut his droid, ST-10, off mid-sentence. “You know how I feel about unsolicited probability readouts, Stetson,” he said, a distinctive twang present in his baritone voice. “it’s gon be fine. All we have to do is act the part and mingle with these wealthy socialites.”

“And hope those Kesserton boys don’t find us while we play dress up…” ST-10 rebutted. The droid’s vocabulator possessed an accent and cadence reminiscent of Taro’s own, but with a higher pitch and a more pronounced drawl.

Taro slipped his golden (or was it blue?) cowl over the lower half of his face as they walked into the establishment, the rhythmic clink of the star-spurs on his boots announcing his arrival to all those present within the estate’s spacious foyer.

Taro and ST-10 exchanged glances, the latter responding only with a brief shuttering of its photoreceptors that offered little that he could work with. Guess he had to do it on his own.

He shook his head. “I don’t have an invitation, no,” he admitted, “My friend and I were in the area when we heard about this shindig bein’ held here, so we decided to see what all the fuss was about.”

Taro flashed a grin while gazing down at the woman from beneath the wide brim of his hat, compound eyes catching the lambent glow of distant lamps. “Got room for two more in there?”

Taro didn’t answer at first. Instead, he glanced over the twi'lek’s shoulder to a small group who sampled a tray of finger foods carried by a hospitality droid. Each of them wore masks with unique designs.

Shifting his attention back to his host, he lifted two fingers to adjust the scarf covering his face. “Now, I don’t wanna seem rude, but wouldn’t tellin’ you my name take the masquerade out of masquerade ball?”

The invitation had been extended to Shadow Academy faculty and upper-level researchers in the Aurora Collegium. Corinna usually wouldn’t choose to spend her free evening at masquerade gala on a sprawling Ryloth estate, but her connections at the Shadow Academy had flagged since her transfer to Clan Odan-Urr. Her research on the host, Tasha Vel'Versea, revealed an intimate connection to longtime professor Bentre Stahoes. Perhaps she’d meet him there.

Besides, Summit business didn’t often afford her the opportunity to dress up. And, putting on the chartreuse satin gown that bared one shoulder and draped the other in a long trailing sleeve, she felt a sense of confidence and poise she’d been lacking recently.

Still, as her escort car stopped in front of estate’s imposing gates, she wrung her hands together to distract from the increasingly tight sensation in her stomach. For all their glitz and glamor, soirées such as this one required small talk over canapés and tipples. She had never quite learned how to do that without embarrassing herself. So, when she stepped out of the car to see the Twi'lek hostess welcoming another guest, she approached and stood wordlessly to the side, waiting her turn.

“Yes, I did,” she responded before pausing for a beat to remember the script of pleasantries she’d attempted memorizing for occasions such as this. She extended a pink hand before continuing. “Dr. Corinna Magarin. Thank you for the invitation. Your home is quite impressive.”

She flashed a smile at the dapper stranger in the hat next to her. Having overheard the last bit of his conversation with Tasha, she figured an introduction probably wouldn’t yield the usual results. At this early stage of the evening, deviations from the script were to be avoided as much as possible.

<@1056685516441006091>

Zhaolin stepped from his chambers, palms smoothing over his formal robes. They were perhaps the finest thing he’d ever worn. The fabric was pleasantly light and breathable, and the teal color was quickly becoming his favorite. He called out to Nyssa, letting her know that he was headed to the gathering. She would join them when ready and, if he admitted it to himself, he’d get to enjoy the full pleasure of seeing the outfit she’d selected for the evening when she made her entrance.

Polished boots tapped gently on stone as Zhaolin made his way to the courtyard where the entrance of the hedge maze stood. There he caught sight of his benefactor playing the part of welcoming hostess. Approaching quietly, he waited politely a few steps back from Tasha and the guests she was speaking to.

Silver-blue gaze swept over the others from behind the matching teal dragon-shaped mask settled across his face. The long, ink black of his hair was secured in the same high ponytail he always wore. Tendrils cascaded over his shoulder blades and reached for the base of his spine. Zhaolin shifted a bit uncomfortable with the fancy clothing, picking at one of the heavy silver bracelets adorning his wrist as he awaited Tasha’s notice.

<@1385116824814878940>

Newt is going to find somewhere to sit, and if there are no seats will sit herself on the ground.

Tra'an Reith emerged from the hovercab, looking distinctly out of place in a Tuxedo. His ebony claws tugged on his bowtie, seemingly uneasy with the more unusual formal wear. The normaly Ebony mask had been swapped for a crimson one that matched his scales, styled in the way of a Krayt Dragon.

Standing straight and towering at his over 2 meters in height, the Reaver locked his hands behind his back, claws clutching elbows, as we waited to greet the hostess.

One hand cupping the other, Zhaolin bowed at the waist. Offering a return smile as he straightened, his lightly colored gaze swept across the courtyard.

“Thank you—I’m still not used to such fine clothing. The turn out seems decent for the evening.”

Shifting to stand at her shoulder to better allow guests to approach, “Nyssa will be here shortly, she’s still getting ready. We both are much refreshed thanks to your generosity and kindness.”

Taro tipped his hat when he was acknowledged by the newcomer. “Ma'am.”

“Thank you, ori'vod,” Rue told Jelc as the Devoarian walked off with Alk – though he hadn’t planned to separate from the Mott, he supposed to was The Rules. He would have to join Alk in his area soon, after initial obligations of being At A Party were completed. The Masquerading aspect somewhat confused him, but Sulla had insisted when she heard that it was very exciting and mysterious and romantic, and Lynna'Vel and Zeva also had been enthusiastic as he crafted his mask.

Rising from within the hedge, the hybrid gently stepped free and drifted towards some of the new arrivals, trying to be quite brave and a good guest. Many of the attendees were dressed so magnificently and all hid parts of their faces, though only one the bottom half and not the top half. That same individual tickled the hybrid’s senses, a familiar scent and sensation to his receptors that stalled his step with remembrance and an ache of grief and joy, roots deep and old in sweet, dark earth.

“Ah,” Rue sighed, and then, to the male, “Master Sir is partially Falleen. What a wonderful auspice. This one is grateful to meet Sir.”

He bowed low, a slight curtsey as his tail lifted the edges of his shimmering skirt.

<@1056685516441006091>

“Do you want to sit down, your eyes are tracking for a bench.” Aure offered Newt, “ I think we may be approaching a 3rd Clan treasure here shortly.”

“I should be good to keep going. Just didn’t know if we should wait for the other guests”

“ Oh no, that’s what he’s for.” she motioned to their guide.“ He’ll let us know when it’s time. Besides that, being out here with just the three of us is rather peaceful, and I garuentee the ballroom will be crowded. Might as well make the most use of the quiet as we can.”

“True, it is rather peaceful out here. Shall we press on then ma’am?” Newt will offer her arm out again.

Aure hooked her arm through Newt’s,“ Lets.” after a moment of walking Aure added,“ You know, I do not have many contacts or acquaintances outside of my own Clan. So it’s nice to meet someone new, get to know them a bit.”

“I’m in a rather similar position, it’s been strange adapting to the galaxy in it’s current state.” Newt looks towards Vance, “And you’re right nature is always calming, especially when you can take your time in it.”

“ Hence the butler’s uniform. A nice, obvious disguise. But I may drag you out for a dance just to spite you.” Aure grinned with a good-natured tease.

Newt will grin at Vance and Aure. “I guess you two have history then?”

Aure laughed,“ Spunky? I’ve been called a number of things, Spunky is not one of them.”

“Flirting now?” she said light heartedly.“ So many compliments, you’ll make me swoon.”

“That would be an interesting turn of events.”

“Plot twist.” Aurelis grinned.“ The bodyguard-butler is a svelt crooner, go figure.”

“I’m surprised, I thought most slavers were delt with by the republic, and if not them someone would have done something…” Newt looks at Vance, like she’s running things through her mind.

“ I myself deal with slavers semi-regularly. Especially when it involves children.” she turned fully towards Vance,“ Congradulations are in order then, for freeing the galaxy and yourself from enslavement.”

“I’m surprised the Jedi never stepped up” Newt continued after a pause. “But, congratulations on your freedom.”

“It’s not a matter of Jedi or Sith, Mandolorian, smugglers, legal or illegal. There are many opposing forces in the Galaxy, everyone does what’s in their power to keep the tentative peace. Unforetunately there are bigger threats than slavers, so they get to operate in the shadows, outside of most notice.”

“It’s unfortunate things like that still exist… even now. But at least work is being done to remove it.”

Pale, hollow eyes scanned the image reflected in a full length mirror. The image was hazy at first before Nyssa closed her eyes, took a breath, and channeled the force into herself. When she opened them, there was still a blur, but at least she was able to see the way her black floor length dress flowed along her body. It covered her arms and legs, hiding a majority of her scars from the world around her. All but the ones that marred her face. Those she covered with the avian inspired mask she wore. Its short beak covered her nose while the feathers spreading from its sides covered her forehead. All that was left visible was the mark on her jaw and lip, mementos of the abuse of the pits.

She sighed when she looked away from the mirror. Vanity never suited her. It wasn’t a thing she cared for. But Nyssa couldn’t push away this need to be perceived as attractive, as desirable. It was a problem she had been struggling with ever since leaving the pits. At least her graying hair was short enough that it usually styled itself.

The journey to the gates was short but as always, Nyssa managed to get distracted along the way. She knew she was running late but the beauty of the estate always captivated her. The smell of greenery was so different to the scent of iron and bacta. It would never get old. Eventually, though, the healer found the group that had begun to gather. Her gaze danced across the strangers that had gathered, searching for the pocket of safety she sensed was there.

The moment her eyes landed upon Zhaolin, her expression shifted into something with a bit more excitement. She made her way over to him, her heels clicking on stone. It seemed he was with their mysterious benefactor as well, someone she was eager to learn more about.

“This place is a maze,” Nyssa said, looking at Zhaolin and then at Tasha. She felt a pang of fear and guilt at what could be perceived as negligence. “I’m so sorry I’m late, I mean no disrespect to you, Miss Tasha.” <@270420040493432833> <@1385116824814878940>

“ … how’d you know I was part Falleen?” asked Taro with narrowed eyes. He took a half-step backward from the colorfully-dressed fellow while moving his right hand toward one of two MW-20 Bryar pistols fastened to his belt, nicknamed High Price.

The only ones who knew his Falleen heritage were doctor, his cousins in the Black Sun, and the New Republic. And he clearly wasn’t his doctor, so this stranger being associated with either of the other two parties wasn’t good.

The cheerful hybrid seemed either oblivious to the inherent threat in a hand going to a pistol or unconcerned with it as he beamed, all sunshine and misty golden eyes, at the gunslinger.

“This one is– was a generic experiment. Its– my former Masters created many others. Hundreds of thousands. Some of its children had Falleen DNA in their genome or were majority so. This one is very familiar with their pheremones, and easily detects them due to its own partially Fierrero genetics. Sir exudes them as well. This one apologizes if this comment is considered socially inappropriate. It is still learning many things about the Outside galaxy.”

Again, the hybrid bowed deeply, kowtowing all the way to the ground.

Corinna plucked a Mandalorian orange slice from the platter held out to her and popped it into her mouth. She chewed thoughtfully, savoring the bright citrus and underlying…peppery, yes, peppery flavor. She hadn’t tried the exotic fruit before, but it was lovely. Nodding again to the hostess, she proceeded toward the hedge maze, following the path to the left.

With broad boughs that hung heavy with clusters of deep purple blossoms, the tree was exactly the kind of thing that Corinna would stop to appreciate even if she didn’t recognize it. And something about this tree did feel familiar. Frustratingly, the source of that recognition hovered just out of reach.

Still, she lowered herself onto the bench beneath it. More than a momentary respite from the growing crowd of arrivals, the area provided a welcoming space to indulge in a brief meditation. Preparations for the gala had supplanted her normal routine, and she suspected that contributed to the anxiety that loomed over her. She began with a deep inhale, the tree’s floral perfume almost intoxicating in its sweetness. As she settled into an intentional rhythm of breath—four counts in, one count hold, six counts out—her gaze fell on the pond. Concentric circles gently rippled across the water’s surface as the fish occasionally surfaced.

The swirling patterns in the water seemed to her to hold the mysteries of the Living Force. Each individual, every action affected the whole cosmic web of life in some direct or indirect way. She’d try to hold on to that sense of connection for the rest of the party. The thought did tend to calm her.

Zhaolin’s attention was drawn, as moth to flame, the moment Nyssa approached. The dress she wore was an elegant black that was well suited to her figure. Though he rather wished she wasn’t wearing a mask. He found it more pleasant to see her face—not that he would be saying that to her by any means.

Blushing under his own mask, he straightened up at as she drew near. It was to his great shame that he couldn’t think of anything to say and so he stood quietly as Tasha spoke. He did however place himself directly next to Nyssa—all the better to guard her, he told himself.

“We do look forward to whatever you’ve prepared.” He nodded at their benefactor before glancing at Nyssa, “You look quite nice tonight.”

<@301514304845381632> <@1385116824814878940>

“Stories are always good. And it’s nice to hear Ryloth is doing better.”

“If she ever needs assistance rooting out any more, I can leave a business card.” Aurelis offered.

“If that’s the case, let’s press on”

As Saint listened to the spindly man’s explanation, his skeptical look took on a slightly more neutral tone. He wasn’t an overt threat to his freedom, at least, and that was enough for him to remove his hand from his blaster.

“You a clone?” he asked, “Thought that kind of thing stopped when the Empire fell.” Though he had heard whispers of strange experiments being conducted in the backwater planets of the Outer Rim and deep within the unexplored corners of the Galaxy. Those were the types of stories that made even the most hardened criminals double check their surroundings before laying their heads.

Rue stayed low, though he did unfold from his full display, now kneeling gracefully in the grasses. He fiddled with some of the blades, glancing up at Taro and then down to whatever he was weaving as he spoke.

“Yes, Master Sir, this one is technically a clone. It has learned that in many sectors that the practices that created it are considered, presently, Against the Law,” he spoke as though quoting someone in a rather lecturing, motherly tone. “Its genome is unique at this time to its knowledge, but many of the litluns propagated after it shared some of its DNA. One litlun of the Falleen batch did remarkably well. He had four years before expiration.” The hybrid smiled up at his fellow genuinely despite a quiet grief in his eyes, much older than his face. “This one apologizes again for disturbing Sir. It was struck with the nostalgia. Please accept this small token in recompensation.”

He offered out a tiny grass hat similar to the brimmed one the man wore.

Newt will follow after Vance

Aurelis paused at the Oda tree,“ Corinna?” she inquired. Walking over the the woman,“ Surprise surprise. Come with us, Tasha'vel is starting up the festivities.”

<@629429326290485286>

“You certainly don’t see that everyday,” he said. It wasn’t hard to notice that the topic was a bit of a sore spot for the man. Losing those close to you was never easy. His line of work meant that he typically didn’t make many close connections, but the few he had that had ended in loss still remained with him to this day. “Sorry to hear about the uh … the litluns. The loss of a child is truly a loss indeed.”

He tilted his head upon seeing the little grass hat that he extended his way. “Well that’s quite a talent you’ve got there,” he said while taking the hat between his slender fingers. “Much obliged.”

When their host announced that it was time to change rooms, Taro gently curled his fingers around the hat and began following the crowd to other room. After taking a few steps, he turned back to the colorful man and said, “You comin?”

“Yes, Sir!” The hybrid rose fluidly and all but skipped up to the man’s side; he’d taken the time to grab some more grasses and was busily weaving what seemed to be a second hat as they walked, using fingers and tail to compensate for his missing hand. He was only a few inches shorter than the taller Falleen hybrid of mysterious nature and thick accent. “A library! This is very exciting. This one has had little opportunity to visit Mistress Tasha’s estates yet due to the recent war goings-on, but Mistress Lynna was very sure I would love them. It wonders how many books there are! Is Sir excited for anything in particular of the Masked-Queraid? The food, or the dancing, or the games?”

Corinna looked up, surprised to be recognized. It took her a moment to recognize House Sunrider’s aedile, but she smiled warmly when she did. “Aurelis,” she said, rising from the bench. “What a pleasure.”

She walked with the human toward the manor.

<@186977617356783616>

“Glad I actually know at least one person, aside from meeting a couple new people so far.” she said as she walked with Corinna, motioning to the taller woman,“ This is Newt,” and then to the magenta skinned man in the butler’s clothes,“ and Vance, an associate of our hostess and who has been guiding Newt and I through the maze.”

<@421348712673968142>

“Nice to meet you.”

“A delight,” Corinna replied, waving at Newt and Vance. “The grounds are certainly…elaborate.”

<@1385116824814878940> <@421348712673968142> <@186977617356783616>

Two Umbaran boys, both dressed to the nines arrived fashionably late to the party. They both wore masks, and their hair was slicked back. Both of them shared similar characteristics, of pale skin, light grey eyes, dark hair, lithe builds and both had a prosthetic metal right arm. But that is where the similarities ended.

The younger brother, nearly bounced his way to the front door. “Come on, come onnnnn, we are going to miss the dance!”

The older brother had his arms folded behind his back, as he slow and methodically walked. Each step a rhythm as he held his head high.

“I’m sure there will be plenty of dances tonight. It is a masquerade after all.” A deep accent rolled out as each of the brothers spoke.

Nyssa’s hand naturally drifted to Zhaolin’s arm for support. Everything was so new, anyone could be a threat to them, she had to stay close. At least that’s what her brain was telling her.

“Thank you, Miss Tasha,” Nyssa said, keeping her mind off the fancy clothes Zhaolin had adorned himself with. She’d never seen him wearing anything so lavish before and she felt it suited him.

“You… look quite nice,” Nyssa parroted his compliment, the butterflies in her stomach preventing her from coming up with an original one. “Could you lead me inside?” She asked, hoping to give herself an ounce of respite from focusing.

Zhaolin happily obliged and led her along towards the estate.

Marius Apollo Edraven-Erinos — His Aunt had decided to make him a member of the Clan, despite his opinion on heavy armor — was late to the party, which was unfortunately something that could not be helped. His Aunt Jade had brought him to this location; her wife, his blood Aunt, was busy with a patient or restocking her goods; it hadn’t been made clear.

During the flight and hyperspace, the Sentinel had managed to lose the masque for this affair not once, but thrice. After the first time, Jade had merely laughed quietly and told her nephew to ‘have fun looking’.

It had no Force signature, being an inanimate, unliving object. Therefore, the former Force Cultist could not see it and had spent over an hour searching the final time.

Once it was located, Marius had quietly strapped it to a free belt loop.

Now, finally, here he was. His electro-staff clanked with every other step, the masque itself — that of a black wolf with elaborate silver filigree that his father had somehow made when Marius had showed the man the invitation — covered his face, yet didn’t disturbed the carefully styled hair. The latter in and of itself was a change that he was not accustomed to.

Much less was the outfit he wore, one that his boyfriend Weyr Suil had helped pick out. The majority of the formal suit, something that all who had seen had audibly approved of, was of a dark navy blue in fine materials with a white dress shirt underneath, with a matching blue tie. Trousers, a vest and a long coat with tails that trailed to the back of his knees. The coat itself had filigree done in elaborate silver and gold, which he was assured worked nicely with the masque.

The ensemble itself was complete with black gloves, covering the fingerless Modified Repulsor Gloves on each hand.

So, here he was, wandering through a beautiful maze of gardens, searching for the strongest gathering of life energies. Most importantly, the half-Sephi was in search of the hostess and his boyfriend.

Newt makes her way towards the lounge finding a place to sit. She leans back and closes her eyes, taking time to just be in her own thoughts.

“Thank you, I didn’t mean to disturb.”

“I received an Invitation, it looked interesting enough to see what it was all about.”

When the two boys had eventually, finally made it to the ball room— Well— the doors to the ballroom, Dominik let out a sigh.

“See V! I told you we would be late!”

Vigo’s corner of his mouth twitched and he let out snort of amusement.

“It’ll be ready soon. Food?”

Dominik’s eyes illuminated. “Maybe just a snack.”

The two brothers meandered to the snacks. Vigo opted, literally for a snack and a drink of champagne. Whereas Dominik proceeded to fill his plate. Revealing another amused look from the older brother.

The half-Sephi in his wolven mask had waited patiently whilst the their Hostess spoke of the activities that were available, as well as the fact that the upcoming dance portion Ball itself would open up within the next hour. However, while he listened, Marius had extended his senses to their most heightened as he searched for the Evereni.

The former Force Cultist glanced at the Hostess another time, taking in the lovely aura of a fiercely maternal figure who valued loyalty above all else, then spotted his quarry nearby.

Marius reached out with the Force the moment Tasha'Vel finished speaking, since the hall was crowded as the attendees split up and headed in the different indicated areas. Once he located Weyr’s mind, the Sentinel gently nudged at it to gain the other man’s attention. Then, once he saw the Doctor glancing around, spoke directly into his mind with Telepathy.

‘I’m to the left of where our Hostess was facing, against a wall between a statue and a portrait.’

“Thank you, that sounds wonderful,” the half-Sephi replied with a smile beneath the wolven masque. “I do know how to dance, but I love music.”

Marius slid his arm into Weyr’s, moving the staff to the other side. “We could go to the library if there was something you were interested in having a look at. If they aren’t options of Braille tomes or Audible Holobooks, I’m afraid they hold little interest for me. I’m quite happy to be in your presence, so wherever we go is something I shall leave entirely up to you.”

Newt looks over at the pair, “pleasure to meet you two, don’t mind me I’m just trying to retain energy for the whole evening.”

“From what I’ve seen, yes. The nature is nice, far better than the metal jungle of Coruscant.”

-# <@421348712673968142>

Marius smiled gently at the Evereni, waiting to reply until they had settled. Then, his responses were delayed as another attendee spoke to them. “Nice to meet you as well. I’m Marius Edraven-Erinos. And I quite agree, this estate is quite beautiful and full of life.”

The former Force Cultist turned to Weyr. “I learned to dance much in the same way that I learned Martial Arts; I had a teacher. A truly brilliant, amazing teacher by the name of Moira.” He chuckled lightly, remembering the sensation of Weyr’s reaction to his statement. “She was an Echani and a Force Adept. However, she was the Martial Arts Master amongst the Monks; she had dedicated her life before joining them to learning and Mastering every known Martial Art in the Galaxy. Mistress Moira would link our minds and share her own memories of learning, both dance and combat. Then, after that, the physical lesson would begin. If I made an error, she corrected me to show how the movements should flow by grabbing the relevant limb and helping me through the correct motion.”

He sighed quietly. “Moira was the closest thing I had to a mother; she passed away when I was fourteen. Some affliction that greatly weakened her, made her blood paler than normal amongst other things. She couldn’t shake it.” Marius shook his head, banishing the somber memories, then smiled at the Evereni. “And, yes, I would love to dance with you.”

Marius smiled at Weyr’s comment, then it turned to a grin as the music started up along with the Hostess’ announcement of the beginning of the Ball.

The half-Sephi smoothly stood, only releasing the Evereni’s hand for a moment to extend it, staff held loosely in his off-hand. “May I have this dance? Or should we grab something to drink to evade the stampede to the dance floor?”

Dominik’s ears picked up on the announcement of the ball room being opened and he shoved the rest of the food from his plate into his mouth before grabbing Vigo by the wrist. “C’mon V— ‘ance ‘room o-en” he said with a full mouth.

Vigo gave a soft amused scoff before being whisked away by his very excited younger brother.

Rue gasped upon seeing the ballroom, taken in by the moon and stars, the art and architecture. Even though the gardens were preferable, these were fascinating. He had not known marble and stone could be animated in the Outside. The hybrid scurried up to the statues, examining them, and was surprised to hear heartbeats, blood flow, lung sounds, suggestion within, etc. Oh. They were alive!

A new species?

How exciting.

As he explored, he noticed the pair from nearby the maze he’d overheard earlier. One who wished to dance and one who did not. Perhaps he could be Helpful and Good. Picking up his skirt, the masked Kessuryn experiment approached shyly, posture docile, hunched, and curtsey-bowed deeply.

“Pardon this one, hullo, but it overheard that the Sir Dom wishes to do the dancing? I could serve as a partner if Sir wished.”

Had been standing with Corinna near to Vance and Newt as the announcement was made about the opening of the ballroom. “ shall we then? I believe Vance volunteered to dance with us.” Aure grinned at Vance as she stepped towards the double doors that would lead to the grand ballroom.“ Remind me to chat with Tasha about the tree in the garden, Kiast’s residents could use a little bit of home, and hope…”

“Oh hello!” Dominik greeted with a bow. His bright eyes looked at the bright attire and the hair of the hybrid before him.

Dominik appeared to open his mouth to speak before being cut off by Vigo.

“You would come to find us not Sir’s. Far from it.” Vigo peered out with his bright eyes over his glass as he took a sip.

“Forgive him. He’s just grumpy. Ah— eh- I like your outfit! And your hair. It’s very pretty. I’d love to dance thank you! V can I go? Pleaaaaase?”

Vigo smirked as he waved his metal prosthetic hand and took another sip of his drink.

At the Entrance

A light growl came from the back of her throat, as the petite Togruta smoothed a few wrinkles out of her satin midnight blue gown. Stepping out of the taxi, she adjusted her silver filagree mask. Looking around she realized that the festivities must have already started.

“This is what happens when everyone decides to get clingy with me before I have to leave,” another growl emanated from her chest, before a little chirp growl answered. “Oh Eeth, I don’t mean you, darling. You were coming with me, I’m just a little mad that everyone else made us late.”

She scratched the head of her little Tailring wrapped around her shoulders, before straightening up and gracefully walking forward. Her heals clicked across the stones of the entranceway, accompanied by the metallic tap of the end of her ruby scepter, slowly making her way through the maze towards the estate itself. The Togruta sensed many people there and so she allowed that sense alone to guide her there.

The garden was lovely, so many many scents and beautiful flora. Tahiri noted that she would have to find time a little later in the evening to take a proper stroll through the gardens.

“Oh!” Another scrambled bow. “This one apologizes for the incorrect term, Ma'ams or Other Preferences Not of a Binary.” His blush was scintillating and rose gold across his features, peeking from under the mask. “Thank you, Mistress Dom! This one appreciates your appearance as well. And thank you Mistress Vee for the permission.”

He straightened up, mostly, and smiled. For looking like a wind would bowl him over, he was tall like a reed.

Nyssa took a quick look at her totally not date and blushed. He really did look handsome in the fancy clothes he was wearing.

“Thank you,” Tahiri smiled and nodded to the tall woman. Eeth'Mireth peaked out at the other pets and gave a tiny trill, wrapping her tail firmly around the lekku of her master.

The Elder sent a calming wave a reassurance that the little one wouldn’t have to join the other pets unless it was necessary. Tahiri continued to the stairs of the estate, pausing for a moment. The last time she had been at any fancy party, either someone had come with her, or someone crashed the party looking for her. Going truly alone this time was something… different for her. She knew there friends here, but she wasn’t sure about anything else. Not anymore.

Taking a deep breath, and making sure her illusionary disguise was still in place, the Togruta proceeded up stairs and into the main hall of the estate.