Open Social Serenno A Hal'lowed Masquerade

[Emryc Thorne]

Emryc snuffed out the fire shortly before Renfry declared a halt of all fighting. This was also when the effects of the mask withdrew, the yellows of his eyes fading back to the normal hints against silver. The half Sephi glanced towards the women, seeing the Eternal slightly further up ahead as she was made to kneel. The sight caused his jaw to tighten, and he was glad for the distraction that came from that Champion Zabrak challenging Wessex. After what happened with almost being caught backstabbing, Emryc couldn’t think of a more brilliant counter. The half Sephi’s gaze lingered on the Zabrak, a faint grin tugging at his lips. He couldn’t help but hold newfound admiration for the man despite many of his actions being brash and hapless. With a little bit of direction, he could become a formidable asset to the Empire.

The half Sephi didn’t miss how he was the topic of conversation several times. He stood in silence, listening as Artorigas quipped back with a play by play of what happened, casually throwing Emryc under the speeder in front of the Empress. He further went on in an attempt to have Emryc regard Xeno’s actions as a slight to him. The half Sephi remained silent through it all, running his fingers through sweat slick hair from the fire earlier. Dark locks were slightly mussed up from their normal styled.

Emryc could have said a great many things then about Wessex’s approach behind Renfry which was suspicious enough to even summon Stolas to attack, about how the man dodged the attack on him in a way that killed someone behind him and endangered acolytes, how he drew a weapon and stepped forth to initiate the combat, how his summoning of a weapon injured multiple partygoers in attendance. The half Sephi said none of it, silver gaze fixed at the scene as his face remained largely neutral. Even as Xeno addressed him and strode from the castle.

He reached forth and grabbed a whiskey off a tray, raising it in cheers towards Artorigas before he glanced over to Tiamat.

It was there that a bitterness reflected on his face. She was kneeling in front of everyone here and swearing her obedience. Emryc had spent years helping Tiamat liberate herself from the haunts of her past to find her path. Ever since she had completed her training, she had gone out of her way to turn on everything he had ever taught her. She continued to make choices that made her little more than a tool to be utilized, exactly what Emryc had saved her from in the past. But she was no longer a child. This was a path she chose knowing fully well what she was doing. She put the chains and manacles back on, and she would be nothing more than a weapon for Renfry to utilize however she pleased. Just as it always was with the Eternal. While Emryc’s fondness for Tiamat would always remain, the respect he once harbored for her was shattered as he saw her there.

Without a word to anyone, the half Sephi quietly took his drink and strode towards a balcony nearby, itching for a smoke and fresh air against his sweat lined skin. He leaned against the railing, drawing out a cigarra and igniting it before taking a long drag. He quietly began to clear his mind, drawing out the poison from the Eternal’s effects that clouded his mind. He had to find tranquility again, and he would just as he had always done through every storm.

@Phoenix @GABA @Braden Drake

 

[Senin Ravelo]

Senin was listening with disbelief to what Artorigas was saying. This man was delusional. He was twisting the facts to sound as if he was correct. Of course, the young man wasn’t surprised with it, they were Sith after all. However, how could he explain that when he approached the Empress from behind, Lords Raze and Stolas moved to protect her from him? Are they crazy too?

Then his Master gave Artorigas an answer. The Acolyte smirked when the Zabrak called Wessex of Darth Nudaman, although he would have prefered to use the nickname Darth Nudus. After Xeno finished, he said to Senin that they were leaving. "Yes, Mestre." now that the situation was calming down, the cut on his head was starting to hurt.

While they walked toward the door, he saw Malou. His Master stopped and threatened to kill her if she approached him and Senin. It made the Acolyte sad, a part of him still wanted to be her friend. Even with her being silent most of the time, he had started to appreciate her company. The young man was even able to make her speak more than a few phrases.

Senin was going to say that he was sorry, he was really going to do that. But then the thoughts returned. She stopped your Master from avenging you. She needs to die so Artorigas will suffer. His sadness disappeared, being replaced by rage. "I should have let you die, Mina." the nickname, which was always used with happiness, was full of hatred and disgust. Then he followed his Master, while a small part of him silently lamented the death of their friendship.

@Scoobert @lizziie

 

[Jaikus Thorne]

After catching himself staring, Jaikus’ eyes did not shamelessly linger on Emryc’s changed state of attire – instead focusing back on the fight taking place. Before he did, however, Jaikus allowed his eyes to linger for a moment on Morgan.

The Axxilan very clearly witnessed the shameless way that the Firrerreo was staring at Emryc, lingering on the sight of the half-Sephi’s exposed forearms. It was staring at earned an irritated look from Jaikus, citrine’s narrowing into slits and launching daggers at the Firrerreo out of the corner of his eye.

His narrowed gaze followed as the Firrerreo moved across the room, whether he noticed it or not, before finally flicking back to Emryc and Artorigas.

He saw the entire exchange between Emryc and Artorigas play out, frost and fire being utilized in brilliant display. He saw as Xeno closed in on Artorigas, and to his surprise, was bodily hurled backwards by Malou. He saw as the Eternal was brought down to its knees, kneeling before the Empress. He saw everything, and through it all, he never moved, never attempted to intervene, but instead remained as a frozen sentry in front of the acolyte. He felt Ashla grab onto his arm did not react outwardly to it, instead keeping his eyes trained ahead.

When Renfry finally intervened, Jaikus couldn’t help but wince ever-so-slightly at the display of power, bringing a swift cessation to the fighting, and internally, a slight sigh of relief from the Axxilan.

Remaining in his corner of the room, Jaikus listened silently as Artorigas and Xeno began their verbal back-and-forth, exchanging insults and feeling the need to compare their accomplishments within the Empire. It was a debate that he was largely disinterested in, as it quite literally didn’t concern him in the slightest. While the challenge of Aurekesh earned a raise brow from the Axxilan, it did not linger.

What he did linger on, however, was Artorigas’ classless attempt at throwing Emryc under the bus in the presence of their sovereign. Of everything that had been said, it was that simple line that motivated Jaikus to finally break his silence.

“What we saw, Lord Caelestis,” He spoke, his frigid voice cutting across the room. “..Was your questionable approach towards the Empress while her back was turned. Questionable enough to warrant the intervention of Lord Raze and Stolas both.” Jaikus had seen the Firrerreo attempt to intervene. It spoke volumes to everyone elses perception of Artorigas’ intent. “Despite their intervention, all eyes witnessed as you summoned a blade from the wall, endangering acolytes in the process, and continued your advance towards Lord Raze and the Empress with weapon in hand.”

"That, is what we saw." His eyes narrowed harshly at that moment, his chin tilting up ever-so-slightly. “Do not, attempt to downplay your own provocation, or misconstrue what we all witnessed.”

His gaze lingered on the Serennian Sith Lord for only a moment longer before flicking elsewhere, once more disinterested in the scene unfolding on the floor. Xeno and his acolyte left, Artorigas attempted to resume the festivities, and Jaikus didn’t really care. Instead, he watched as Emryc swiped a whiskey from a tray and moved to quickly exit the room, heading for a balcony to escape the commotion.

His eyes lingered in the half-Sephi’s direction for a few moments before he finally turned on a heel to address Ashla. He offered the woman a warm smile, gently patting the hands that were still clinging to his bicep before easing out of her grasp. The danger had long passed by now, and Jaikus felt comfortable leaving the woman’s side at this point

He took a step back, bending low at the waist and sweeping a hand out in front of him to bow before the Togruta. “My lady, if you will please excuse me.” He spoke politely, a smile still brushing against his lips. With that, Jaikus began to exit the room as well – crossing across the open floor and making his way towards the balcony. As he walked, the Axxilan reached out with the Force, gently floating a flute of champagne into his hands from a nearby tray.

He made his way onto the balcony where Emryc had gone to smoke, lingering a few steps behind him for a few moments. Without a word, he closed that bit of distance, coming to stand right beside the man – citrine eyes fixated out over the horizon.

He sipped from his flute, while his other hand came down to gently rest against Emryc’s, a silent gesture of tenderness towards his partner. Jaikus was silent for a few moments more, finally flicking his gaze from the landscape to regard the half-Sephi before breaking the silence.

“I’m here.” He said softly, a repeat of what Emryc had told him only a few minutes prior.

@Sreeya @Braden Drake @Scoobert @lizziie @Mr. Teatime @Wit

 

[Renfry]

Darth Andruil stood motionless, continuing to watch the people who were there as they spoke. Artorigas (@Braden Drake) addressed her directly and indeed she was aware of what he had done for the Empire. To her mind that wasn't in question, and she was no fan of the idea that this battle would take place at all.

That would be good, she said as he mentioned that he would put on new clothes. I don't think I'll be dancing tonight, she said. She was hardly in the mood for a party and had she not felt the need to remain in order to ensure further chaos didn't disrupt, she likely would have left altogether.

And there was still the question of what had gone on behind her. Questions lingered in the air and accusations had been leveled.

Jaikus, Xeno, and Artorigas had all given their accountings of the story. Emryc was silent, but that came as no surprise to her. He wandered to the balcony and she considered following to ask his views in private, but Jaikus was already moving to intercept, and she temporarily gave the pair the space they desired.

Lord Stolas. A word, she said, as her eyes settled on Morgan (@Mr. Teatime). She walked to a different balcony, taking a breath of the fresh night air for the first time in the evening. The moon was large and ominous, perhaps heralding what had occurred tonight without anyone noticing it.

The attendant she had spoken to earlier returned quickly as she and Morgan made it outside. On the tray, almost comically for what had just happened, was several small pieces of nerf jerky that she took before dismissing the attendant. Though most wouldn't know it, it was a comfort food of sorts, but fit in perfectly with her carnivorous Dathomirian diet that most wouldn't bat an eye if they didn't know her well.

As she took a bite, she felt a heavy weight upon her shoulders. Tiamat's undermining betrayal, accusations of Art moving against her, fractures developing within her ranks. She felt... tired. And angry. Though she didn't allow it to come across and she silently thanked the Fanged Spirit for the mental defenses of Kravos to protect her thoughts within her head.

When she was certain they were alone and not interrupted, she said simple words to Morgan. What happened?

She knew Morgan loved Emryc and she knew what had happened at Firrerre. He had reasons to be biased in both directions, he was her Councilor, and he had not directly shed blood that evening. If she couldn't receive Emryc's side of the story directly, it was the next best thing for the moment.

 

[Zoella Dorran]

Zoella was late, as usual. The Sith Acolyte had never been punctual a day in her life, and she saw no need to break tradition at this point. She could easily blame her tardiness on her transportation or claim that she got lost roaming the hills and winding roads of Serenno, but the truth was much simpler than that.

The majority of her evening had been spent in front of the looking glass, applying her makeup and running her fingers over each and every crease in her gown until it hung flawlessly from her shoulders and glided across the floor as easily as a vulptex danced across the snow.

Her father would have scolded her for her obvious vanity, but what did he know about vanity? He certainly had nothing to be vane about. Half the time he looked like a wet womp rat, and the other half he looked like a Hutt that had just rolled around in muck on the lowest levels of Nar Shaddaa.

Zoella had been sent to the Sith for discipline and a rigid life schedule. How disappointed would her father be to learn that one of the first things she'd done was attend a lavish party on the beautiful planet of Serenno? This thought alone was enough to bring a sadistic smile to her face.

From the hallway outside of the large, ornate ballroom, the Sith Acolyte could hear raised voices. Passing through the wide entryway, Zoella's green eyes peered out through the mask that covered half of her face, passing over the other guests.

A man in a black and gold suit and jacket—the host of this event— was banishing two other Sith from his castle and his estate. The two Sith moved toward the doorway, and Zoella watched them grow closer with curiosity.

What do you have to do to get kicked out of a Sith party? she thought to herself.

 

[Emryc Thorne]

Emryc’s gaze remained on the silvery moon ahead, watching the thin wisps of clouds that floated against the backdrop of a clear sky shimmering with an endless sea of stars. It always gave him pause how much more beautiful space could be from a planet compared to when he gazed out that same window every day on the space station. The half Sephi blew out a cloud of smoke from his nostrils. He closed his eyes, the impact of the cigarra almost immediate as his thoughts returned to their normal tranquility.

He looked over when Jaikus arrived, feeling that brush against his arm. Almost at once, Emryc did something he almost never did for others - he flicked his cigarra away and called upon aerokinesis to manipulate the air and dissipate the smoke at once. Evidence of the stench of smoke faded at once. Jaikus wasn’t a smoker and that fact actually began to help Emryc on his journey towards kicking the habit. It was perhaps the only terrible health habit he had in his otherwise clean living lifestyle.

Emryc moved his whiskey over to the hand that was holding the cigarra, taking a sip as his free arm snaked around Jaikus’ slim waist to pull the man closer. The half Sephi grinned down at him, leaning down to touch their foreheads together affectionately.

“I thought you were a wallflower,” He murmured quietly with a smile, revealing that his sensitive ears had picked up on the Axxilan mouthing off to Artorigas inside the hall. His quiet appreciation of the gesture was clear in his voice. Being who he was, Emryc wasn’t often used to people loudly and boldly speaking up for him. He had the tendency to let things slide when he wasn’t playing politician. His true nature was far more passive, and Jaikus balanced that out with his fiery persona. It reminded Emryc all over again why he had grown to cherish the man.

Emryc drew back slightly and kept his gaze on Jaikus. He thought about everything that happened that night, thought of all the ways things went wrong. And in the end he thought back to who had been by his side through every bit of it, even when he had completely flipped to becoming Raze. The half Sephi pulled Jaikus a bit closer, his heart pounding against his chest as he gazed down at the Axxilan. He fidgeted with his hair, fiddled with his collar a bit and cleared his throat for no real reason. His eyes were slightly wide, his expression suddenly difficult to read.

“Jaikus…” He began quietly, staring into the citrines, “I lo-”

“Could I interest you two gents in some mini burritos?!” A voice cheerfully and loudly called out as one of the servers quite literally materialized out of nowhere, busting out into the balcony with a tray full of the same things that gave someone at the last party a major case of the runs.

Emryc didn’t even think, the man bodily flung over both his and Jaikus’ heads and sent sailing over the balcony railing. It wouldn't be a Castle Wessex party if Raze didn't throw someone. The half Sephi’s eyes flashed yellow, beyond frustrated at the interruption. The man’s shrieks echoed in one, long note that betrayed his impressive set of lungs. Emryc blinked a few times, still gazing at his partner that usually never had an appetite for wanton violence without cause.

Emryc sighed.

There was a sufficiently unamused look on Emryc’s face as he stepped back and rested an elbow on the railing, mounting his chin on his palm as he gazed moodily over the edge. The man he threw reappeared in the air after a few seconds, yanked expertly out of the air and spared from certain death. Emryc didn’t bother looking as the server was plopped down behind the two men.

“I QUIT! FUCK FORCE USERS AAAAHHH!” The man screeched as he flailed his arms and ran back into the main hall.

Emryc sipped from his whiskey and looked back at Jaikus, the yellow seeping away from his eyes again. The moment was entirely ruined.

“Shall we return to the party?” He glanced down at his chrono. The night was still young after all.

@Altaris

 

[Malou D'Amaris]

As she walked away from Senin and took her place on the inner wall of the room, she began to feel an emotion bubble and boil inside of her. The numbness she felt melted away as the heat in her fingers spread throughout her body. A terrible mixture of devastation, rage, betrayal, and disappointment coursed through her. How could she be so stupid? So naïve? For what other reason would Senin have latched onto her as a friend so quickly and without hesitation?

‘This was all planned.’ Senin, like his master, had come bearing a weapon. Did he ever truly consider her a friend? What was she thinking, befriending the apprentice of the zabrak who so blindly hated her master? ‘How could I be so stupid? Stupid, stupid, stupid!’

Artorgias and Xeno began to exchange insults, but the acolyte did not bother to listen past Xeno’s call for the Aurakesh. The man was a coward who had been backed into a corner now that his attempt at stabbing her master in the back had been foiled. If he were not, he would’ve simply challenged her master in the first place. Instead he had planned to exact his revenge without having to face him directly. He had employed Senin, too, to kill her.

‘Senin…’ Malou flipped her vision over to the acolyte who had gone to stand by his master. Pain flashed through her chest. Briefly, memories of their time at the mall and time at the beach ran through her mind’s eye. ‘What did I miss?’ Blind as she may be, the girl had never been blind to underlying motives. When you grew up among nobles, particularly powerful ones, you learned to spot the tells of such things. Perhaps she had just been so desperate for a friend that she had missed it all. What about Ashla? And Soren? And Aadya? Only one of those three she knew well enough to care about their opinion of her, but the possibility that they could all be involved hurt her to think about.

Xeno and Senin passed by her before she could fall too deep into agonizing thoughts. The zabrak stopped abruptly beside her, but the acolyte made no indication that she heard him. The storm numbed again, and no emotion could be seen on the lower half of her face. When he began to speak, Malou turned her body suddenly to face a nervous servant standing nearby.

“Michael, could you please get me a glass of water? Thank you.” The servant, Michael, gave her a quick nod and moved off to retrieve the glass from the kitchens, seemingly glad to be out of the zabrak’s presence. Then, when Senin began to speak, Malou turned to face him, still pretending as if the zabrak did not exist.

“Mano,” she responded in turn. Her voice came casual, as if she had already forgotten his betrayal. “Good luck with your training! It shouldn’t be too hard; cowardice is easy, after all.”

Michael then, in perfect timing, reappeared with her glass of water. Malou plucked it from the platter and wandered off, leaving the man with Senin and Xeno. “This way,” he said firmly, gesturing towards the door. He had been tasked with escorting the two out and making sure they didn’t wander around or damage the properties. Two, then three more servants would appear, though they were much bulkier than Michael.

Malou made her way towards the middle of the room, away from the inner wall. Despite the tussle she had gotten herself into, her clothing remained untouched, other than the drying blood on her left upper arm which was mostly disguised by the dark color of her dress. She would likely bruise there, and she was sure her throat would be hoarse in the coming days, but the only visible injury she had was the bleeding cut on her thumb. That was solved quickly by nabbing a napkin off the table and pressing her thumb into it as she continued towards the dancefloor.

The acolyte, now that she had left the immediate vicinity of Senin, felt the rush of emotion boil back to the surface. Though her face remained neutral, she had a vice grip on the glass of water she held.

tags: @Scoobert @LouJoVi

 

[Darth Tiamat]

She could feel the fingers of the Eternal caress her mind, the whispering continued, growing louder as the Empress spoke her demand. The eyes of the room rested upon them, there was still tension that bit between others, it was hard to hear, a ringing started in her ears as Andruil kept her grasp on her neck, "Of course..." she extended her arms, lowering her head, "I serve youyou..." there was a laugh that echoed through her head as Andruil finally would release her, taking her attention to the rest in the room. Tiamat would suddenly feel heavier, her hands falling to the marble floor as she stayed put for a moment longer, waiting for Empress to walk away.

There was a rage that she couldn't decipher if it were her own or the Eternal's as she dug her nails into stone floor. Slowly she rose, her eyes scanning the hall as it seemed chaos had taken its toll and internally the Eternal grinned, cutting through the woman's center like a knife.

Now watch them...

She heard them speak and there was an overwhelming urge to do as it commanded.

We're trying to teach you, this is valuable information...

Another voice hissed as she found herself on the other side of the hall, ignoring those that were still staring, whispering as they stepped aside to allow her to pass. She felt herself searching for Emryc, having heard him, sensing him near, she had not seen him though, and the spirits chuckled.

He was right behind the Empress, surely ready to defend her, but not you.

Tiamat's eyes narrowed behind the mask, her nails digging painfully into her palms, I will decide that, not you.

But...isn't Renfry a friend? Not a very pleasant one, coming at you like that... scoffed another spirit.

I will decide that, not you. Tia repeated.

 

[Soren Shaggelian]

Walking into the room, Soren realized he had missed so much already. The Sith Champion Xeno was leaving angrily with his apprentice.. Senin? Senin was Xeno's apprentice? Well that was a shock. Soren assumed he'd fall under someone of higher nobility. It was definitely weird to see but now it was time to move on. Aaaannnndddd a Sith Lord is naked.. lovely.

Soren would then avoid looking in that direction as he would look to find Malou. She stood to the side and looked elegant in her dress, though she did look to have been in an altercation of some sort. Had she fought Senin? He did have a cut on his head. Did she attack him? Did Lord Caelestis attack him? Who did what? It seemed the issue was resolved and the Sith would look to move on, so he assumed that he should just ignore it, though it was definitely an eye catcher.

"Hey Malou! It's me Soren! Oh wait, I forgot you can still see.."

He smiled with a hint of being slightly scared she would be upset. Then he would continue to speak for the sake of changing the subject,

"Uh.. so have you bee alright since we last hung out?"

@lizziie

 

[Darth Stolas]

There was much that Morgan watched from his sentry position. Arguments, violence, displays of power, and submission. That he stole a few moments' glances at the half-Sephi's fine forearms was hardly unusual- nearly habit, actually. Jaikus gave him a look. Naturally, he noticed. The Firrerreo's head turned slightly, a dark brow rising above orange-gold eyes. What, he wasn't allowed to look now? As if Jaikus and half the room didn't look too. Stupid sexy Emryc.

Fighting back and forth was ended abruptly by Andruil's display of power and the Eternal's submission. Emryc looked tense about it. Morgan's thoughts, clearer now without the mask's influence, didn't linger on it in lieu of the passionate back and forth with a challenge thrown in. Unfortunately, Emryc wasn't the type to speak up for himself. Jaikus got first blood on rebuttal while Morgan was left wondering why he'd hesitated to do the same. He was the fiery and passionate type, after all, not shy with his opinions.

That he still felt in part cold and conflicted bothered him. Instead of repeating the Axxilan's valid points Morgan offered him a begrudging, knowing nod as he passed by. Besides which, Andruil was approaching. Without a word he followed along to the balcony. Goldens watched Emryc and Jaikus disappear onto their own before dragging themselves away. Morgan was doing much better but he still wasn't yet entirely 'okay'. A tray of fortified wine, bottle and glasses, was pulled from a stupefied servant's grasp on his way by.

Morgan leaned against the railing, arms grumpily crossed as the tray settled on a small table. Without the Eternal's influence thoughts were returning to the forefront of his mind, eyes and pupils back to calmer shapes and shades. They found the tray of jerky with amusement. Stress eating? Relatable. Renfry's question was considered for a short while, the Firrerreo's head leaning back to look up toward the sky.

"Caelestis approached you and the mask wearer with hostile body language, I followed, Raze interposed himself. Caelestis drew first and moved to pass, I moved to intervene, Raze indicated he'd handle it." His lips twitched slightly. "Xeno took an opening to strike Caelestis, Malou pulled him away." Slender fingers lowered, relaxing slightly, and tapped against the railing as if counting.

"Six injuries from the pulled sword and one bad haircut. One dead from a dodged bolt Raze fired in response to the drawn weapon. Raze fought protectively, Caelestis went for the eyes." Morgan knew well what it looked like when Raze was trying solely to kill someone. That wasn't it.

"That mask has a foul influence," he added his own irritable opinion, picking up one of the glasses and pulling a disposable vape from somewhere in his coat to pull on, vapour leaving his nostrils a moment later. "I don't like it."

Morgan was open to any required elaboration on any detail. When things weren't personal, they were easy to explain.

@Phoenix @Altaris

 

[Veles]

An Acolyte approached, and he turned curiously toward the man. People didn't approach him. No one walked up to him because no one ever needed anything from him or with him. That had been what he was used to as a Champion, at least. Perhaps he had come back from Dathomir a more interesting person and those around him wanted to see for themselves.

"Uh...Sure, that would not be a problem." He was surprised that someone wanted to pick his brain about something, but he was nevertheless eager to share things about his culture--though nothing that outsiders should not know. What Veles had not mentioned was how secretive the nightsisters were with their traditions--and how secretive he were, too, as a result. Some things were not meant to be known by others.

"If you'll excuse me, I have to get myself a drink." Veles stepped back and turned around, searching for a waiter. He ordered a drink--because apparently putting a big table with a punch bowl somewhere was too difficult. Then, he waited, looking around at all the faces here.

The server had just arrived with his drink as a tidal wave of darkness washed over the room like a cold front, quite clearly sensed by everyone. Veles turned to the door and so, too did those around him. A masked individual stepped inside and he vaguely remembered the Eternal's mask, but that was not possible. Darth Andruil had killed the Eternal--it's why she was Empress. And yet, judging by her reaction, this was news to her too. The dark side is as confusing as it is powerful, he considered, taking a sip of his drink as he watched the drama unfold.

He saw Caelestis rush forward, and weaved his way through the crowd until he was closer to him as Raze stepped in front of the man, but Veles did not intervene at any point. He knew--now, finally--the authority that Raze wielded, and knew that stepping in would not be wise or helpful.

He chuckled as he watched a Zabrak get yanked out of nowhere as he tried to backstab Caelestis, then turned to see that Malou had been the culprit. The Zabrak put up a fight, but the girl clearly had the situation handled, and Veles' attention was drawn abruptly by the Empress' shout tearing through the hall like thunder.

As the arguments came and faded away and the music faded back on, Veles took a deep breath in, then exhaled. He knew just the thing he needed to wind down from all this excitement.

Reaching into his pocket and taking a cigarra out of the pack, he tucked it over his ear and stepped toward the balcony. This was a special cigarra for a special occasion--laced with enough spice to sedate a rancor, which would only be amplified by the drinks that were to be had. The cigarra was rather large however, because Veles was aware that bringing something like this to a social event clearly meant he'd have to share.

He relaxed as he felt the cool breeze hit his skin as he stepped outside, a finger raising up to the tip of the cigarra he now put between his lips. A little green flame shot out of the tip of his finger, and Veles inhaled deeply. The smoke rolled down his throat and into his lungs like hot lava, then back out as he exhaled, stepping closer to the railing. A few meters away was the man he'd escaped from that cave with, joined by another Sith. Judging by the words and looks exchanged between them earlier in the hall, Veles supposed a love interest. So the bastard does have a soul.

 

[Jaikus Thorne]

Jaikus didn’t miss the subtle use of aerokinesis by Emryc, swiftly succeeding in dispelling the cloud of smoke and familiar scent of cigarra from the air around the two of them. In truth, the Axxilan was not a smoker himself, even if he gladly tolerated the usual cigarra’s that the half-Sephi enjoyed.

Waving away the smoke was a subtle gesture, and yet it was one that spoke volumes without either of them needing to say anything. It was enough to elicit a warm smile from the Axxilan in response.

Jaikus felt as Emryc hooked an arm around his waist, tugging him close and pressing their foreheads together. As was his usual habit, Jaikus snaked his arms up around the back of the half-Sephi’s neck in response, looping loosely over his shoulders. It was a repeated gesture of affection from the Axxilan, and it was one that had been born in this very castle months ago.

“I like to surprise you from time to time,” He quipped, smirking a bit at the wallflower nickname. It was a nickname that, in many ways, Jaikus lived up to. Charming manners and polite nature were the Axxilan’s default way of operating, rarely jumping at the opportunity for a confrontation. His frigid remarks towards Artorigas, however, seemed to flow from his lips without even the slightest hesitation, the situation bringing out a fieriness that rarely surface in public, even if Emryc had seen it multiple times himself.

Jaikus knew from the man’s tone of voice that his fiery response was appreciated. Instead of speaking, simply hugged the man a bit closer in response, cherishing the feeling of having his arms around him.

He tilted his head a bit when his partner drew back, taking a moment to admire the way the moonlight seemed to glint against those familiar silvers. Jaikus couldn’t help but raise a brow curiously as Emryc began to fidget, clearing his throat for no apparent reason. Emryc was most definitely not someone who fidgeted often,

He listened as Emryc began to speak, eyes wide and seeming to hang on every word that slowly began to pass from the man’s lips..

And then they were interrupted. Which was not at all surprising.

Jaikus visible winced as the overly-cheery burrito-assassin appeared out of thin air, presenting a platter of food poisoning waiting to happen. “FOR FUCKS SAKE!” He growled, the words passing from his lips before he could contain his momentary irritation.

At this point, Jaikus was beginning to believe that the Force itself was out to get them at this point, throwing the most obscure interruption at them at the worst possible moment. He was half-expecting Mr. Goat to round that corner, as cruel icing on the cake.

Nevertheless, he still looked slightly surprised as Emryc instinctively threw the man in an eerily familiar way as Xeno. He watched as the server flew over the balcony, his screams filling the air in a long note that was fit for the finest opera houses of the Core Worlds. He stared for a moment before blinking a few times and giving the half-Sephi a knowing look. The Axxilan never had an appetite for meaningless cruelty, even if the person in question had ruined a precious moment.

He watched as Emryc, thoroughly unamused, leaned over and pulled the server back from certain death. Jaikus waited until the man was solidly back on the ground, threw his fit and ran off, before he cracked a smile. He brought a hand up to caress his partner’s cheek at that moment, a silent gesture of approval at what he just did.

Jaikus was silent for a long moment after that, taking a sip from his champagne flute before setting it down onto the railing a few feet away. He heard at Emryc spoke, suggesting that they go back to the party. He very clearly heard the half-Sephi, and yet he purposefully did not respond to what was said.

Without a word, Jaikus brought a hand up from his side, reaching up to firmly grab onto Emryc’s tie. With a tug, the Axxilan closed that bit of distance between himself and the half-Sephi, tenderly capturing his lips for a long embrace.

In that moment, the rest of the castle and the events of the night seemed to melt away. The seasonal music blurred into the background, and the tense exchange between Artorigas, Raze and the Eternal were a distant, nearly forgotten memory. Nothing remained but the present moment, the two men and the brilliant glow of Serenno’s twin moons shining down upon them.

It was an embrace that Jaikus was in no rush to end prematurely, taking a long moment before drawing back. As he did so, he once more pressed his forehead lovingly to Emryc’s - falling back onto their repeated gesture of affection.

“I love you too, Emryc.” His words were softly spoken, a whisper that only the half-Sephi’s sensitive ears could pick up on.

They were the words that Jaikus knew Emryc had meant to say before being interrupted moments ago, and had chosen to finish them now. They were words that had come to be true in the months since they had meet with every adventure and encounter, from Telos to Keldooine. From Tattooine to the Bounty hunter haven. To a hospital and to a planet without a name. They were words that flowed from his lips more naturally and easily than he ever thought possible. And they were words that Jaikus spoke now for the first time, doing so in the very place where it had all began for them, amidst the snowfall.

He allowed his words to hang in the air for a long moment, lingering with his forehead pressed against his partner and the man he loved. When he finally moved, he leaned forward to steal one last kiss before taking a single step backwards.

For that brief moment together on the balcony, Emryc would be able to see that Jaikus’ eyes had shifted to their natural emerald hues, glinting bright against the moonlight.

Without a word, Jaikus reached up to adjust the half-Sephi’s ruffled tie, smoothing it back into perfect position the way that he liked. When he was satisfied, the Axxilan took a moment to simply admire the man before him.

“Dashing as always.” He declared, a bright smile flashing across his features.

He tilted his head to the side just a bit, jutting his chin back to the castle before them. “Maybe now we should head back.” He hooked an arm around Emryc, plucking his flute of champagne from the railing. “The night is young, after all, and the dancing is just beginning."

With that, Jaikus began to make his way back inside from the balcony. Only one they were within the castle again did Jaikus turn his head to give Emryc a knowing look, a smirk tugging at his lips. The night was young, and the two men would have their dance together before long. But first, there was another who the Axxilan had in mind for the first waltz of the evening.

Gently separating with Emryc, Jaikus sauntered his way across the hall, crossing the floor to find Ashla near where he had left her only a few minutes ago. Just as he did when he bid her farewell, Jaikus dipped into a low bow as he approached the acolyte, that same charming smile bright against his features once more.

“My lady,” He spoke smoothly, extending a hand out to the acolyte as he came back to a stand. “Would you do me the honor of a dance?”

@Sreeya @Wit

 

[Darth Caelestis]

As Artorigas walked through the private corridors of the Castle he left a small trail of ashes as the flakes of burnt trousers pooled upon the floor behind him. His mind was closed to his surroundings as servants moved out of the way bowing to there Master as he went by, music reverberating within the walls as he turned the final corridor and headed up the spiral staircase into his chambers. Artorigas' mind was still hazy and conflicted, rage burnt deep down inside of him, rage and anger against the Wretchedness Inside which had taken control. How had he lost the ability to control his own body wish such simple words and goading from the voice, how had years of training and practice been broken so easily.

A side lamp was sent clattering across the bedroom as he entered as his frustration boiled over. He knew the reason why he lost it, what words broke through his walls and the acknowledgement of it made things even worse for the Sith Noble. Artorigas flung the mask onto the bed before he sat down on the end, the charged pieces of fabric staining the white linen black with soot. The fact Xeno had challenged him to Aurrkesh was insignificant in comparison to what he had witnessed inside his own mind, the upstart Zabrak would be dealt with in time, but first he had much more that needed to be dealt with. Both with those still at the party below and those who resided within his mind.

He sat for a moment with his head in his hands breathing deeply trying to gather his thoughts and measure his actions, before a knock at the door pulled him from his trance. One of the manservants opened the door to ask if he needed any help, Artorigas was tempted to tell the man to close the door and leave him to stupor but he could not. For this was his party and as the host no matter the ordeal he must present himself to all those in attendance. "Thank you Escalor, please we can go with the secondary choice of the night."

The Sith Noble had no intention of changing mid way through the party but had been undecided on what he wished to wear prior to the first guests arriving. As such he already had a second outfit ready to go, this time he was dressed in white, silver and gold with a matching ceramic mask. With Escalor's help it took little time to change into the new outfit and he was soon back on his way through the winding corridors of the Castle, the music slowly grew louder as he reached the main hall.

Entering back into the gathering it seemed that at least some of the parties attendants had chosen to ignore what had happened previously and were at least trying to enjoy themselves, though as his eyes surveyed the scene. He noticed that Stolas, Andruil and Raze were all absent from the room, all three people he ideally needed to speak to by the end of the evening. Calling over an attendant who stood by, he quickly gathered the rough locations of the three in question.

Andruil had gone to one of the balconies with Stolas, he could strongly guess what was happening there. Artorigas was unsure of how Stolas' would describe his depiction of the events and how kind they would fall upon the Sith Noble. But that was something which needed to come later, for the third member of his target audience re-entered the hall. Flanked by his partner the tight clothed Jaikus, he was loath to try and separate the pair knowing that he had already seemingly annoyed or upset the younger man. But luckily for him Jaikus shortly made his departure from the towering Sith Lord.

Heading across the room the Sith drew more than a glance from his peers, he took a short detour towards the bar picking up a bottle of whiskey and two glasses before continuing on towards Darth Raze. He made sure he was spotted by keeping his eyes locked on the taller man, Raze would know he was coming to talk to him and all those who wished to interrupt the Noble were quickly pushed aside.

Reaching the taller man Artorigas looked up at the Sith and spoke, his face almost as blank and emotionless as the stoic man before him. "May I have a word?" To show he was there for nothing more serious he lifted the bottle and glasses into view. "In private."

@Sreeya

 

[Renfry]

She was thankful for Morgan's input on the situation, a man who had seen much more of the conflict than the Empress had. She listened to each of the words he said, weighing them and turning them over in her mind.

She cast her glance back in the direction of the dead victim who was still being cleaned off the floor as Morgan mentioned the victim. She didn't recognize the dead individual and wouldn't shed any tears, but it was a symptom of the larger problem. The problem Morgan mentioned.

I'm wary of it as well, she said, mind clearly drifting off to weigh the pros and cons. She wanted to meet with Tiamat. Not the Eternal and the Empress, but as the friends they were... or at least had once been. She wondered what lasting repercussions this night would have on that relationship.

She ripped off another chunk of jerky and sighed.

Keep your eyes open the rest of the evening, she said, not that he hadn't been up until now. While she didn't anticipate further conflict, she hadn't anticipated the original conflict either.

What did you make of Caelestis's motives? she asked. That was the core and only question now and one that would not be easy to answer. Whatever answer Morgan gave would be speculation, but she wanted his insight nonetheless. She would likely ask Art directly whether tonight or at a later time. She supposed what happened was in the nature of the Sith: an order based on passion and aggression.

Thank you, Morgan. I'm going to speak with Raze as well, she said, taking her leave moments later with a nod.

True to her word, she headed toward Emryc next though it appeared that Artorigas had arrived first. She watched the brief exchange of words that appeared to be taking place, and she motioned to Emryc to find her when it was finished, grabbing a glass of wine from a passing servant. Perhaps it would lighten her mood. She still hoped to enjoy at least part of her evening. Maybe dancing would come later when the tone of the party had shifted back from blood to wine.

@Mr. Teatime @Sreeya

 

[Emryc Thorne]

Emryc was still in a bit of a mood from the burrito assassin’s intrusion, but he was surprised when Jaikus didn’t respond to his words. The half Sephi’s brows furrowed a bit, watching the man sip from his glass before setting it down. Emryc’s eyes widened slightly as he was pulled forward by his tie, his intent demanding and urgent. The half Sephi obliged, leaning down towards his partner as they pressed their lips together. Emryc tilted his head and closed his eyes, always fascinated by how this simple gesture instantly made him forget everything plaguing his mind at any point. He sank against those familiar lips, the taste of champagne and the warmth from the other man. His arm wrapped tightly around Jaikus, pulling him close as he kissed him.

There was a faint smile on his face as Jaikus pulled away but kept their foreheads pressed. Emryc was about to make a quip about Jaikus ensuring the half Sephi never made it back to the party when the other man spoke. For a moment, Emryc was sure Jaikus could hear his heart thundering against his chest, struggling against its confines. The half Sephi blinked several times, the words running through his mind over and over again.

They were words that faintly began to crop up within his psyche for weeks now. It was just as unexpected as everything else with Jaikus. Their journey had countless unpredictable twists and turns, and somewhere along the way Emryc had completely fallen. He fell for that snort laugh, he fell for Jaikus’ ridiculous tantrums, fell for his terrible eating styles, fell for the way he gazed at him sometimes as if no other person existed except for Emryc, fell for the friendship they had where Emryc could entirely be himself, fell for the way they bickered and disagreed. Somewhere along the way it became love, and there was no other word for it. It was a word Emryc had feared, but one he couldn’t deny. Not anymore.

To hear Jaikus say it back- To hear the words aloud from the Axxilan filled him with inexplicable elation that he was almost afraid to experience. It went against everything he had been taught, though his previous chapter in his journey had certainly opened doors. In many ways, his last experience showed him the humanity he could embrace and made it possible for him to give name to what he felt. It was clear that Emryc was temporarily stunned into silence, but his eyes spoke volumes. The golden hues were almost entirely gone at least for that brief moment, his silvers warm and lacking their usual frost. In turn they gazed into the brilliant emeralds where the citrines melted away, the eyes of the man he loved and cherished.

Emryc could have stood there all night, and he largely forgot about the rest of the party. However, Jaikus stepped away and paused to fix his tie. The half Sephi glanced down as he did so, finding the gesture inexplicably tender and affectionate. There was a sense of home and familiarity when Jaikus did it, and that simple notion would stick with the half Sephi for a long time.

The Sith Lord grinned at Jaikus as he stepped back and complimented him. It was then that the Axxilan would catch that the simple tie gesture left Emryc with a pink tinge across his face, one the half Sephi was hoping very much was too subtle to notice because his face grew incredibly hot.

The half Sephi threw back his drink as Jaikus wrapped an arm around him. As they walked back, he couldn’t help but let his arm around Jaikus's waist dip a bit lower to playfully grope his very nice rear, though it was too subtle for any partygoer to notice from the angle.

Emryc watched Jaikus head off towards Ashla, gaze lingering in that direction for a moment till he turned forward. When Caelestis looked at him, he would catch a slightly dazed and stupid look on Emryc’s face that lingered from the balcony. However, that quickly settled back into the usual stoic as Emryc set his empty glass down on a passing tray.

The half Sephi eyed Caelestis for a moment, catching the change in attire and the drink in his hand. Emryc took a proffered glass and simply nodded, stepping backwards and right back into the same balcony he had emerged from. As he did so, he caught Renfry looking at him and gesturing to find her after this. Emryc nodded in her direction before focusing back on Caelestis.

He let the party host pour a drink before clinking his glass against the other man’s, “Welcome back, Wessex,” He said simply, making it abundantly clear he was aware of the man not entirely being himself earlier.


@Braden Drake @Altaris

 

[Malou D'Amaris]

When Soren approached her, calling out to her and forgetting that she was not in fact absolutely blind, she couldn't decide if she was relieved or irritated by his casual cheeriness. Malou didn't comment on it though; he wasn't the only one who made that mistake.

"I've been busy," she responded shortly after he inquired about how she'd been. It hadn't been too long since they had spoken. "You?"

As she awaited his response, Malou set her glass of water down on the platter of a nearby servant, then swiped a glass of champagne from the same tray. The acolyte lifted the drink to her lips, took a sip, and surveyed the room once again. Tensions seemed to have died down, but she still felt a little tense. Perhaps a dance would loosen her up a bit?

"Care to dance?" Malou would extend her hand to Soren, offering to take the lead. She'd descended down to this hall tonight intending to enjoy herself. Though her night had gone terribly so far, she hoped that it could be salvageable. As long as she kept her mind off things she didn't want to think about, that was. Fat chance of that.

Malou took Soren's hand and pulled him closer. She took a moment to set her drink down, then took his other hand in hers and began to step and sway with the music. As it quickened she quickened, and as it slowed she slowed. Her dress billowed out and danced too with the movements, and she circled around the floor. Though her face remained stoic and her movements were fluid, it was not long before she found herself uncomfortable in Soren's presence. 'Did he know this was going to happen?' When the music began to fade into the next song and their dance ended briefly, her metaphorical eyes bore into the eyes of his mask. The bile taste of distrust touched her then, but this was Soren wasn't it? 'No, of course not. He's harmless.' As the music started up again she would pull him back to dance, still keeping hands on hands, and still keeping space between them.

"How is your training going?" It was a boring question, but she wasn't familiar with who his master was. If anything, it was a tidbit of information she could use to make sure she never made a mistake like she did with Senin again.

tag: @Scoobert

 

[Darth Caelestis]

A small spout of unknown pressure released when Raze took the glass and nodded, Artorigas should have expected to not receive a verbal answer from the big bantha. The fact Artorigas was trying to get any conversation out of him on this balcony was perhaps already a lost cause considering all the contact he previously had with the man. But perhaps what had just gone down in the hall could break a few verbal barriers from the Sith Lord and allow his tongue to do more than play tonsil tennis with Jaikus.

Once they reached the edge of the balcony, well from prying ears and eyes he pulled the cork free from the whiskey bottle and poured the man a strong measure before filling his own glass. "Single malt from Onderon." He said before placing the open bottle on the handrail between them, clicking his glass against the taller man's he proceeded to down the entire glass in one. Artorigas did not taste the elegant spicy notes or the incredibly smooth finish of the drink. Instead all he received was the warm burn as the contents reached the pit of his stomach.

He was at a loss of what to say to the man, he had asked him out here in with the full intention to clear and air and resolve and misunderstanding between himself and Raze, yet now he stood before the man he did not know how to proceed. For Artorigas to truly explain himself meant he had to admit to not only himself but those outside of his mind as to what happened and that, was harder than any could possibly imagine. The man's clear single line however cut away some of those ropes, the language he used implied that the man at least knew something of what had gone on inside his mind.

Artorigas' mouth opened to speak, but no words came out. After a moment he shut his mouth turned to the bottle poured another large glass of the amber liquid before it disappeared as quickly as the first down his gullet. "Thank you." He began, pausing to try and gather more of his thoughts. "Although I promise you no harm would have come to the Empress. The fact you placed yourself in the way... You have my gratitude." His voice was sombre, gone was the jovial attitude Artorigas usually pushed out to the galaxy around him. He wanted to say more but did not have the words to describe what he wanted or needed to say to the man, without giving in to the weakness inside.

@Sreeya

 

[Ashla Ti]

Music​

It happened just as the Eternal submitted itself to the Empress, something changed, and Ashla found her mind clearing. Whatever fog had been clouding her thoughts was gone, and the fear that had gripped her started to pass. So as Jaikus stepped forward to address Caelestis, the young acolyte didn't shuffle around in fear as she might have moments earlier. She watched him speak, and was caught off guard when he turned to her after he was done and bowed to her, politely asking to be excused.

"Of course," she replied with a bow of her own, "and thank you." It wasn't easy for any Sith to say those words, definitely not for one with her background, but in this instance she knew it to be right. She watched him make his way towards a balcony exit, the same one Lord Raze had taken moments earlier, and a memory of the Champion stepping up to the Sith Lord and tenderly grabbing his hand came unbidden to her mind. For a moment she felt a pang of something, something not pleasant, but then she noticed Jaikus casually float a champagne flute to himself and the smile that came to her lips pushed away that thought.

Realizing that she was standing there all by herself, she started walking to try and mingle, and tried to imitate the champion. She reached out with the Force and made a flute float over to her. But her control over the Force was not quite as refined as his had been, and instead gliding elegantly into her hands, the flute whizzed past her, smashing into wall besides a server who was making his way to her with a black mask on a tray. He dropped the tray in shock, and looked down dejectedly at the now soaked mask, turning around to seemingly look for another replacement.

Having watched all this unfold, Ashla sheepishly looked around, and hoping no one realized what had happened, she turned around to find Jaikus heading her way. About to make some excuse for the fiasco, she let out an oh when he asked her to dance. That was when the music changed, the graceful waltz replaced with something much more energetic. Realizing that she had seen the holofeature the song was from just the other day, she grinned widely and with boldness that surprised her, grabbed Jaikus' offered hand and dragged him along to the dance floor.

She stopped at the dance floor, where a few other couples were already beginning to do the dance steps from the song, and started imitating them as well. "Come on," she shouted to Jaikus over the music, the dancing making her even bolder, "just follow what everyone's doing!"

@Altaris @Sreeya

 

[Emryc Thorne]

Emryc sampled the drink, letting the warmth flow down his throat with that familiar burn, “Not often I see an appreciation for whiskey outside of the Core,” He commented with a faint grin, “I’ve acquired a taste for Tevraki whiskey amidst my travels, though it’s nowhere classy enough to have here,” Emryc took another sip of his drink. While he could sense Caelestis was uncomfortable and tense around him, the half Sephi was entirely relaxed in comparison. One of his elbows rested casually on the railing as he eyed the other man. Silver gaze betrayed nothing, his face relaxed from its usual frost. There were no internal musings or judgments made.

He said nothing for a few seconds after Caelestis spoke, taking another quiet sip from his drink. Emryc gazed out towards the moons then, “Does the Empress know about that side of you? About the voices?” He asked quietly. It was a battle he fought enough times to recognize right away in others, “Can you truly make those kinds of promises?” Emryc knew he himself couldn’t. Not if Raze ever took full control. He knew Raze had a mind of his own.

“That mask…” Emryc paused for a moment, “It is capable of destroying us from the inside,” He said this knowing full well it was Tiamat that wore it. Tiamat was always rebellious by nature, and that was not the right kind of fit for the mask. The mask sought obedience and servitude. With Tiamat, the mask would simply turn on her unless she showed unquestionable loyalty to the mask and the Empress.

@Braden Drake

 

[Darth Caelestis]

He took mental note of the Lord's preference in whiskey make, if he survived out the week and he once again played host to the Sith he would make sure to have at least a few bottle of the stuff behind the bar. "She knows a little, I spent time battling my inner voices around her when I was a simple Acolyte my mind easy to pierce my actions simpler to understand." He made no mention of Lord Andros the long dead Sith Lord who had also occupied his mind at the time, but he had long since passed from his body and this plane, something that Andruil was aware of.

"But I have had better control until tonight, so it may have slipped from her grasp, her mind is to busy at the moment to think of what goes on in mine." He continued turning out to look into the night, the twin moons sending a dim light glow across the landscape, edging woods and streams sending small little details back towards him as he looked out into the void of the night. "I believe I can." He replied, though he purposefully chose not to elaborate on the answer. His eyes locked out into the darkness as to avoid giving away any hint behind them.

"It is a hedonistic thing. I would have rid of it from my home, my planet and this galaxy if I could." It was the first time his voice was more than the sombre tone he had arrived to Raze with, a large vile of spite dripping from his voice. That mask had almost destroyed everything he had built in but a matter of a seconds. Only The Empress' command kept him from approaching The Eternal and either killing him or being killed. "I ask you plainly, why did you stand before me. Was it to protect the Empress or to protect Renfry?"

@Sreeya