Pier Pressure

[Nicolás Cormond]

Another charity ball, another extravagant gala. Nicolás was neither surprised or shocked at how grand and opulent the promenade was. He had visited party after party, from both his time when serving in the courts of Brentaal to the days leading up to the last Senate hearing he attended on Coruscant. The trimmed and rosy gardens, the glittering dresses, the sparkling lake that the terrace overlooked, or even the breath-taking view of the city— nothing seemed to be worth his time. Even the drinks he snatched from passing servers were of second-rate value, leaving nothing more than a bitter taste in his mouth. Needless to say, Nicolás hadn’t come all the way to Empress Teta to just exchange pleasantries with strangers or guzzle down subpar champagne. He had come only to meet none other than Freya Velstei, Junior Senator of Koros Major— of this very world.

Nicolás weaved through the crowd. While he absolutely hated introductions or conversations without reward, the man (for once) sought to maintain a sense of warmth. He didn’t want to scare away some of the guests, or other potential connections, should his little clandestine meeting with Freya end up in the dirt. The Senator knew the woman was remarkably intelligent, and therefore any attempt to manipulate or wrap her around his fingers was out of the question. What he needed to do was fight fire with fire, battle one matchless wit with another. Still, he could imagine Senator Velstei had little idea of why they were meeting in such circumstances. After all, Nicolás was the type to keep the surprises at the end. But if she was smart enough, she would have already long figured out he needed something. Help, influence, an ally— she would soon find out.

“Well, I’m happy for your daughter, Duchess. Tell her I wish her the best of luck.” He feigned a smile, charming the woman before he retreated back into the surrounding crowd. Along with his good looks and expertise in the art of pleasantry, it wasn’t very hard for him to win much of those at the charity ball on his side, even if he cared little for them. While he might not have come face to face with Freya at the party just yet, he knew first impressions were everything. He wanted her to believe he hadn’t come simply to throw out demands or waste her time. He wanted her to think he cared. Then again, if the woman had heard half of the rumors about him, she would also already have realized Nicolás was not the thoughtful type. When it came to anything, his own selfish needs always came first.

And soon, Nicolás found the need he was just looking for: Freya herself. Catching her standing on the terrace that provided a picturesque view of her homeworld, the man slowly approached her with a smile plastered across his face. “Senator Velstei, at long last. It’s been a while since we last saw each other. On Coruscant, I believe, at a charity gathering much like this, if I can recall.” He moved in closer and leaned against the railing, offering an attentive stare. “How have you been? I see Empress Teta is as prosperous as ever, no doubt because of your work.” Of course— flattery. Even so, Nicolás had to start somewhere, didn’t he?

@TenthCodex

 

[Freya Velstei]

Theme​

Koros Major, it was a beautiful place. She had been to many places, but her home world still held a very special place in her life. Even after her time on Alderaan and other places in the Galaxy, she found herself still drawn to the planet. One by one, these thoughts crossed her mind as she stood on one of the many terraces that littered the promenade. It was a beautiful view, and she wanted to enjoy it while her peace would last.

She had wanted to have a moment to herself, to get away from all the meaningless talk going on in the gala she was attending. Even if she found such social environments interesting in the way they worked, she needed a break every now or then. For a moment, Freya was sure that if she had spent another minute in there that her mind would've probably melted into mush. It was always the same; some idiot rambling on about his beloved family, an overly excited attendant, and a plethora of people who just didn't seem to interest. Freya was more interested in the bigger fish, not the small little guppies that littered the sea. She had met quite a few major people, but so far she found that they would simply not be enough. She needed something better, something stronger. Perhaps even a possible ally in the Senate.

Pulling out her datapad, the senator scrolled through and examined some of the notes and research she had taken on quite a few people she had met. Orin Comprassi, the group of senators she had met on Coruscant, Brodie Nico, etc. They were all people she deemed as possible uses in the future, though once that use came to end she would happily write them off of her list. Taking a bit of time to jot down some of her thoughts, she didn't seem to notice the man coming up to greet her until his voice finally hit her.

“Senator Velstei.” Her name being called alerted her presence, and she turned around to find a rather handsome looking man talking to her. Senator Cormond of Brentaal, they hadn't had much in the way of interaction besides seeing each other on Coruscant. She was surprised to find him coming up to her and she carefully put away her datapad back into the small purse she had brought wtih her. Carefully, Freya listened to whatever Nicolás was saying, a bit sad however that her time of peace had to come to such an abrupt end.

"Senator Cormond," She let out a smile towards the man, "Oh my, I thank you for the compliment, but I must say the majority of it has been thanks to hard-work of my people. Without them, the planet wouldn't be able to be as grand as it is today."

Already this guy was trying to flatter her. Freya was trying to figure out if he was being sincere or just trying to get on her good side. It was a trick she often used before, something she had observed many do. She would wait longer for more of this man's speech, hoping that she could begin to piece together what made up this senator's mind.

"And no doubt Brentaal is doing quite well thanks to you."

@Deviant

 

[Nicolás Cormond]

Her reference to his homeworld was like a knife into his thigh. There was no denying the hidden truth of Nicolás and his lack of family relations. The man was compelled to move to Coruscant, forced into a position he never asked for, simply so his brother could inherit his family name unchallenged. Many might consider being appointed as Senator of their own world as prestigious, but what good was it when it carried no influence, no weight? On Coruscant, a Senator may have their own authority. But on Brentaal, he was nothing but an overblown title. His power over the planet was virtually nonexistent. He might be able to vote on certain legislation or represent them through the Republic, but whatever prosperity Brentaal experienced was not by his own hand, as much as he wanted to say it was.

The only bill he had voted on thus far was the legislation regarding Republic involvement in the affairs of Alderaan. Affairs that, ultimately, had essentially no effect on that of Brentaal. In the end, he voted for himself, and only himself— because it was not like his own home seriously cared for it. His homeworld was doing well, but certainly not thanks to him. Still, Freya could not have known so much about him with such little time. He sensed no ill will in her voice. If she looking to taunt or intimidate him, she would have done so immediately. There was nothing but reciprocated pleasantries. Nothing but a beautiful young woman looking to figure out what the man had come for. Of course, she would soon find out.

“Thank you, Senator.” He offered another scenic smile. “And you are too humble. I’m sure you have done many things that have come to benefit you and your homeworld.” He paused, almost with dramatic intentions, to lure her into his words. “And I am sure you will continue to do more.” Behind them, the party continued on. Drinks clinked together, laughs were shared, instruments played. But on this terrace, on this balcony that revealed the full scope of Empress Teta’s lush beauty, there was only Freya Velstei and Nicolás Cormond. Their pleasantries and introductions were exchanged and done. The only thing left to do was for the man to present his case, slowly, and convince the woman to join at his side. He didn’t want much, he didn’t demand anything in particular. All he wanted was her trust.

“I am sure you’re willing to do whatever it takes to keep Empress Teta safe, to keep them in power. After all, the Deep Core is such a dangerous place. I hear rumors of Exiles on Prakith, or pirates sacking convoys and caravans within every passing hour. Even the Jedi Order continue to stretch themselves across the galaxy, building temples in their honor as they go. While I’m sure their intentions are good, and their humanitarian aid is crucial to galactic stability, it was through them that the great war sparked to life, right?” He paused again. Nicolás wanted to see what she thought of all the ongoing issues that plagued the galaxy and what she thought of the Order. He had to know Freya’s interests before he could get her on his side, after all.

He had to first gauge his prey before he could catch it.

@TenthCodex

 

[Freya Velstei]

Freya let out a smile as she began to try and build a profile of this man. He had thrown a lot of compliments her way like most people did when they tried to get on someone's good side, that was established. But immediately he was beginning to start conversation about the order, starting off with how dangerous the Core was now. She took note of the way he spoke, specifically 'Even the Jedi Order continue to stretch themselves across the galaxy, building temples in their honor as they go.' It was a subtle jab at the Jedi, on how they had failed to protect this galaxy upon all sorts of dangerous things. The Hutts, the Exiles. And that final line, how the great war was sparked by them. This man must have really been good when it came to arguments in school.

The senator wasn't quite sure what to do with Nicolás, whether to try and keep him on about his beliefs or whether to start to present her sides of things. He was neither friend no foe to her yet. That would ultimately be decided by the end of the night, and once that time came, Freya would remember a saying she held close to heart: Keep your friends close and your enemies closer.

"I'm surprised that the Galactic Senate hasn't had meetings on these things yet. These all seem like obvious threats to the Galaxy, don't you think so?" Her smile seemed to be more faint, not like the happy smiles she often wore in public, and her voice was seeming to reach her actual tone. Her voice was cold, and her eyes colder, "And I haven't met many Jedi yet, so I wouldn't have a complete understanding in their whole fiasco. I will admit the whole war has caused a lot of distrust with the Jedi, but you can't judge a book by its cover. You have to delve inside of it and explore it, then you can see the good and the bad. All things hold secrets after all."

When it came to things like the Jedi Order, Freya knew that they could either be a blessing or a curse. Plus, with her being on the new committee to investigate Alderaan's elections, she knew that being on the Order's good side was going to be necessary if she wanted to have any chance at interviewing the suspects in the whole matter. She already had one little boy who might help her get that done, but right now he wasn't needed. Taking a small breath, she returned back to the matter at hand.

"My thoughts on the Jedi remain neutral however, as my do thoughts on the Exiles. They're both the two sides of the same coin, but perhaps maybe one is just a bit more stained than the other. They can both be cleaned of course, but sometimes those little stains can be quite hard to remove, and both sides have the remnants of those stains." Her voice was fully in her private tone, the socialite aura gone. This was business now. She hoped that Nicolás would understand her little analogy.

"But if the time comes, I am fully willing to cooperate with either side to help save the Republic or my homeworld. What about you, Senator Cormond?"

 

[Nicolás Cormond]

A neutral stance. Of course. Nicolás shouldn’t be surprised. Still, there was nothing he did not like more than a politician who refused to take a stand on either side. One could not simply sit in the middle, to stand on the thin line between a debate that has raged on for decades. Then again, Nicolás was no better. His stance on the Jedi Order and the Exiles was based purely on his own selfish desires. If one side meant to benefit him, he supported them, and vice versa. In the end, Senator Velstei was playing her cards right by not clinging desperately to a certain side. Perhaps that could work into his favor. After all, it would only take some convincing to get her to choose— flexibility Nicolás was looking for when it came to the Senate. An open mind, while dangerous, also had its perks.

At least he was able to find a trace of what Freya truly wanted: the safety and security of her homeworld and the Republic. She was one of those Senators, but Nicolás couldn’t judge. Without the Republic, Empress Teta was like a distant island in the middle of an ocean. The Republic was what connected her world to the rest, as it was not positioned on any mainstream hyper-lane like that of Brentaal or Coruscant. Perhaps if Nicolás worked to strike a chord with her, to present the case that joining him would mean the salvation of her homeworld, then she could easily play into his hand. But from what he had learned of the young woman, he knew she would play hard to get. It would take more than mincing words or a luring smile to get her on his side. Of course: baby steps.

“Like you, I stand on a thin red line, Senator Velstei. I understand the facts that come with all sides, as well as how it may affect my homeworld and myself. Decades ago, the Exiles razed many worlds and nearly destroyed the Republic. At the same time, the Jedi Order’s handling of them was not enough. So, who is to blame? The dogs or the masters? It’s all a matter of perspective.” He began to lean in and gravitate closer to Freya, slow and imperceptible, until he answered, almost seductively. “Fortunately, I’m flexible.” His remark was clear, and the underlying message was there. In other words, Nicolás was willing to do what he needed to do to win the Senator’s trust. And if he had heard Freya correctly, so was she.

He leaned back smoothly, so as not to scare the young woman away. What Nicolás was getting at now should be as apparent as the city skyline before them. “We share the same interests, Senator. We both care about what the future holds for each of us. For our respective homeworlds. That is why I propose we establish an alliance. A mutual relationship, one that can benefit us both.” Another smile. “You offer up your support for my legislation, and I can offer up my support for yours. You do me a favor, and I will do you one too. Like friends with benefits, but without the sex.” He followed with a wink. “Unless you prefer otherwise.” It seemed all options were on the table now.

@TenthCodex

 

[Freya Velstei]

The tension was rising and the air between them becoming heavier. Nicolás was close to her now, his tone quite seductive and charming. How many girls had he done this to before, and how many of those girls fell into his little trap? That was what she thought for now, but she knew that things could be quite different underneath the surface. She was similar; many thought of her as the young, social senator willing to do anything for her homeworld and the republic, but on the inside Freya only wanted to get on the top, not caring who she had to lie to or use on her way.

Nicolás leaned back and continued speaking, talking about a possible alliance between them in the Senate. If she helped him, he would help her, and vice versa. It was the same old tale that many relationships were based off of, but this one felt like it may be different. There was no telling what this man would ask of her, and he knew nothing of what Freya would truly want him to do.

"An alliance? My, it seems like you specifically want someone like me. Now, why would that be? Maybe you've heard about my little life so far and my skills. Have you?" Freya let out a let a faint smile as she brushed a few stray hairs away from her shoulder, "How much do you know about me, Nicolás? Or maybe you're starting to think, how much does this woman know about me?"

Freya wanted to lead him on, to see more of what made up the man in front of her. He was one of the most interesting people she had met so far. Little by little, the whole conversation was starting to reveal her true nature and she wondered about how Nicolás would react to this. Only time would tell as her golden eyes looked straight at the senator.

@Deviant

 

[Nicolás Cormond]

Specifically was one way to put it. Nicolás, in reality, needed as many Senators he could get his hands on. Regardless of planet or stature or looks, the young man needed all the help he could get when it came down to the favor he would require of them. Still, Senator Velstei was a certain contender for the most desired. It was not the fact that he found her easy on the eyes, or because her homeworld was an populous industrial powerhouse perfect to leech off of. Rather, it was because he realized Freya was one of the smarter Senators within the Republic, as well as the easiest to work with. She might have her rough edges, but Nicolás would need something sharp to carve out himself a destiny. Nothing sharp enough to cut himself, like Senator Sinde, and nothing too blunt to be worthless, like the morally conscientious Senator Sarlo. Freya was perfectly balanced.

“I’ve heard a lot of things about you, Freya.” He answered, her name delicate as it slipped through the curl of his lips. “Outgoing, eccentric, always one step ahead of everyone else. I can imagine you like to analyze and evaluate potential rivals or allies wherever you go—“ His eyes flickered down to where she placed her datapad, assuming she was planning her next move instead of just watching the next episode of The Real Housewives of Empress Teta. “—I would know because I do the same. We’re both alike, you and I. We see power and authority through a particular lens: that it belongs only to those who know when and how to take it. And you…” His fingers seemed to dance along the railing and toward the young woman. “…must know how to take it, do you not?”

The innuendo was there, but so was his point. Originally, Nicolás was planning to hold back. To present himself as the picturesque Senator without any ulterior motives or underlying intentions. But she was smart enough not to fall for that. So, he would take a different approach, one where he laid himself bare as well as the young woman. Most mutual alliances were based on lies and promises, but between these two? Something else was brewing. Something more than just any ordinary association. “And what about you, Freya? How much do you know about me? And how much more do you want to know?” His grin stretched even farther, tempting her to answer soon.

@TenthCodex

 

[Freya Velstei]

A smart man. That's what she thought of Nicolás. He was smart no doubt, he had done his research on her, and he was trying his best to get her on his side. They were alike in many ways, knowing how to use power and play to their strengths. Evaluating potential enemies and rivals for use in the future. He was speaking her language, a language of power and cold words, with vulgar mentions at times. Where was this man all her life?

"I know that quite a few don't have a high opinion of you already. You always take care of yourself, and you have quite the reputation with women. What I can infer is that you are willing to do anything to gain power, even if it means a few risky ventures and making a few enemies. You're a good type, someone who knows how this Galaxy truly works. I do agree you and I are very much the same, but one must always put on a face in public."

Freya thought of all the faces in the Galactic Senate, of all those who thought they were making a difference. Those who were in it for themselves, and those who were a mix of both. She pondered about the reasons why those in the investigation committee (including herself) joined. Senator Sarlo seemed to be quite justice driven, Freya knew that helping would benefit her career and allow her to put her intelligence to more uses, the Antilles boy seemed more like he was forced into it, and Senator Adasca seemed like she only wanted to find the truth out and help save the Republic. A noble deed, but such things like that were rarely happening, and most of them belonged in the realm of fairy tales.

"We both know how dangerous the Galactic Senate is, and how oblivious some are to believing that they can actually truly help. I'm starting to see your plan of helping each other. It's always good to have a friend in the same place as you."

@Deviant

 

[Nicolás Cormond]

She knew well. About how the Senate worked, much like cogs in a machine, and how to slog through the system. About how Nicolás focused only on his survival, not of his physical body, but his reputation and his name and his destiny. About the Senator’s wanton and aimless relationships he had with a countless number of strangers, either plucked from the side of a street or even in a lavish party such as this. She knew well about his willingness to do almost whatever it would take to get what he wanted, but that was not a hard guess. Every politician with an ambition had the same goal and thought in mind. He was just smarter about it, and so was Freya. The pair were not completely blinded with a desire for domination, but they kept their eyes open— and ahead— to the future. It didn’t mean they had no desire for it, though. Because it was clear enough that they did.

In a galaxy as vast as this, power meant everything, so everyone craved it. From the way one would raise their glass, from the color and style of their attire, from every word and syllable that slithered from their mouths. Everyone in the party understood it. There was a gorgeous young woman, shoulders and collar exposed, flirting with several older, clearly wealthy men over in the corner. She craved power. There was a man exchanging quips with a rival noble as they drank as others watched on, and each man was desperate to one-up the other. They craved power. Then there was Nicolás and Freya, settled on the terrace, discussing a relationship that could propel both of their careers into the upper echelons of Republic society. They both craved power. In the end, power indeed meant everything, so the Senator of Brentaal took little shame in admitting or accepting the fact of his own cravings.

After all, through power, change can be made. The Republic can be reshaped and rescued from the mess it now stands in, as with the worlds tucked inside it from Empress Teta to Brentaal. That was truly why the two Senators sought to befriend one another. Not just to stand atop everyone else, but to guide them. And seeing now that Freya understood him, and he understood her, Nicolás smiled and answered. “I’m glad you understand, Freya. There are so many Senators out there too short-sighted to see the truth laying right in front of them. But we see it. And together, we can take it.” He continued to lean against the railing as he looked deep into the other Senator’s eyes. “Is it safe to assume, then, that we now fight on the same side? The side of the aware and the wise?”

Nicolás did not expect to receive an answer so soon, and neither did he expect to pose the direct question of an alliance so early into their conversation. But the two were clearly hitting it off, and Freya understood him on more levels than one. They were almost destined for each other. At least, for now, as Nicolás saw it. That destiny would only turn into a reality depending on her answer, though. Was she really willing to stand by his side from here on out?

@TenthCodex

 

[Freya Velstei]

"We both are on the same side, that much is obvious. But perhaps only time will tell how this truly plays out." Freya knew that first appearances were important, but they could often times be flawed. She would have to keep a close eye on this man over a period of time to truly see how he was. So far she was impressed, but maybe that emotion would wear off as the days went by. He was definitely more useful than many of the others she had met and she wanted to keep him close. Perhaps he might even be of some help with the Alderaan investigation. It might take a bit of reasoning, but Freya was fine with that.

"For now, I suggest we keep our alliance to ourselves. I already observed how most of the others act during parties and such. If we make our little alliance so public we'll probably find ourselves being the talk of among most of the senators. Rumors spread so easily in these times." She knew that people scheming with each other weren't often viewed as favorable by others, and being a public figure meant keeping up a good face. Hopefully, Nicolas would understand. They'd have to keep their meetings in private, away from any prying eyes.

"I'm sure that we'll be needing each other soon anyways. Another Senate meeting is bound to happen, though what it entails will be up to the future. It will be pleasure working you, I'm sure of that."

 

[Nicolás Cormond]

So, she agreed. For some reason, Nicolás half-expected the woman to pull something out of her ass, an excuse to avoid aligning herself with him, all because of an ulterior motive much like his own. But she was as he predicted— and more. Freya Velstei was no typical Senator, as he knew, and neither was she just any woman. With his head angled toward her, eyes fastened to her clean features, fingers tapping on the railing just inches from her, his interest in the young woman could not go entirely unnoticed. Still, he would never allow that growing attraction to get in the way of what he really wanted: power. On Brentaal or in the Republic, Nicolás was sure to do whatever it took to get what he needed.

As for the privacy Senator Velstei sought, he would only agree. An alliance forged in a secret meeting between two of the most prominent politicians in the Senate would cause more harm than good for either of them. Anyone else might see them as a threat or a powerful rival, hindering their growth. That, and if one of them were caught in any illicit activities— particularly Nicolás —the other would surely sink with them. And as she mentioned, rumors spread fast, and often twisted the truth. He didn’t want to be posed on the cover of a tabloid decrying some affair with Senator Velstei, even if he did kind of enjoy the thought. “Alright, Senator. This will be kept just between you and me. Our little secret.” He smiled, tempting and charming as always, before he caught a hum in the distance.

A violin, eerie and soft and inviting. It was followed by a sudden shaker, a rattle of sorts. Something like a harmonica soon came after, as did a funky-sounding piano. Together, the various instruments formed into a stirring melody, one that sent the surrounding gala almost into a frenzy. Several nearby strangers perked up in attention and quickly made their way to the dance floor under the pavilion, where the band danced to their makeshift jazz. Given the party was without paparazzi or cameramen, and the party-goers were far too drunk or caught up to even notice the Senator of Brentaal was here, Nicolás only had one idea in mind. Smirk in place, he nudged at Freya and then to the pavilion.

“Well, would you look at that—“ He extended a single hand and stepped from the railing. “—care to dance, m’lady?” He asked, almost mockingly, but still genuine. Now that their alliance was now set in stone, there was one thing left to do: celebrate. But if the Senator preferred to keep to herself and her slender datapad, so be it. Nicolás would find other fish in this sea of aristocrats.

@TenthCodex

 

[Freya Velstei]

Nicolas was an interesting man, even after they closed the deal he was still using that flirtatious and suave nature of his. He'd probably have broken many girls hearts, and he probably had a plethora of women willing to throw themselves at his feet. Freya knew that if he'd already been throwing subtle hints towards her that many people would definitely view their relationship as a romantic affair. Then he had to bring the idea of dancing. No one from the senate besides them were here tonight, not like they would care considering a majority of the guests were drunk of their asses. She'd indulge him for now, but after tonight it would be strictly business.

"Why I'm surprised you didn't ask earlier." Freya accepted the offer, grabbed ahold of his hand. The senator began to make her way towards the dancing area where many were already partaking in the activities. The band playing started to play a new song, and many began to change the style of their dancing. For a moment, Freya began to revert back to her public personality. Tonight was a night to celebrate and she was fully intent on enjoying herself.

"I hope you're as good with dancing as you are with words."

@Deviant

 

[Nicolás Cormond]

“Surprised? Do you really take me for that kind of person?” He said, a hint of sarcasm in his voice. Everyone with ears by now would have likely heard of his proclivity with all kinds of strangers, and the rumor was neither wrong, nor was it something he could deny. Still, he was no harlot to be plucked off the street, and neither was Freya. She was too pretty to be a street hooker. “I like to get to know a woman’s name before I sweep her off her feet, after all.” His fingers wrapped around her own and motioned the young woman closer to the pavilion and the growing crowd of drunken nobles. His professional attitude was now gone, replaced with a sober sense of insobriety, if that made any sense. Now that his meeting with the Senator ended in success, Nicolás couldn’t help it.

“Oh, and believe me, I am. You’ve only had a glimpse of what I have in store, sweetheart.” He smirked. Their individual titles were gone, and rather than the Senators of Brentaal and Empress Teta, there was only Freya and Nicolás, two misshapen strangers looking for some consolation. A moment later, the two were on the dance floor, surrounded by various other patrons. Some women looked on with envy toward Freya, or ogled Nicolás like he was fresh meat on a silver platter. Men also did the same, feeling threatened while also intrigued with the masked woman. This was a masquerade, after all. As hackneyed as it was, the Senator still found it surprisingly enjoyable. Even with lurking tabloids, there was nothing to confirm that both were there, each partaking in a pseudo love affair.

Even if it wasn’t, Nicolás was almost intent on making it so. He hated mixing work relationships with carnal ones, but he supposed that seducing Freya might give him greater leverage and influence over her. Well, that was one excuse, but the young man simply found her hard to resist. It had been a while since he found homage in another, at least someone who was actually as smart as he was. Call girls often made terrible company once the night was over. Perhaps Freya would prove differently. Then again, could Nicolás have seriously expected the woman to play into his hand? Again, she was too smart for that. And unbeknownst to him, smarter than he bargained for.

As the new song continued, Nicolás twirled the young woman around and pulled her back in close. His feet led them on, guided by a mind with a background in circumstances like these. Being raised in the courts of Brentaal had its perks, of course. “Like I said,” he continued with a soft grin. “I’m experienced.”

@TenthCodex

 

[Freya Velstei]

Nicolas seemed to have changed tone quickly, though whether it was genuine or not made Freya wonder. He was trying to be ever so graceful and charming, and he had already attracted the attention of quite a few people at the party. As they made their way to the dance floor, Freya took note of what Nicolas was trying to do. He wanted her, though in many different ways. A romantic scandal with him was possibly one of his little goals, as he was going full on romantic mode. She wondered whether or not to indulge him, whether she'd find herself growing too attached. Being too attached to someone could pose threatening consequences for her career as she'd possibly be too distracted with them rather than her own career.

The songs played on and on as Nicolas and Freya danced. He twirled her around before pulling her in close after a couple of exciting dance moves. He let out a small grin as he talked about being 'experienced' with these types of things. How many women had also been in this situation? How many of them were actually interested? The dancing was fun, but Freya internally was keeping herself closed off. He was an ally, not a plaything. She'd indulge him of course on the outside, but on the inside she knew that their relationship would be at its best with them purely being allies. If she really needed him to be on her side then maybe she would seduce him, but for now all she needed was a strong ally.

"I see, tell me Mr. Cormond," Freya looked up towards the senator, the top part of her face covered by the masquerade mask, "How many girls have been in this position before? With such a charmer like you I expect a number at least in the double digits."

The song had switched and the night continued on with the starlit sky above them. Clouds could be seen in the distance, covering the bright, red moon and the two other smaller moons that orbited Empress Teta. It was a very beautiful night, almost picturesque.

@Deviant

 

[Nicolás Cormond]

Move after move, step after step, the pair danced through the night and through each changing melody. Slow or fast, Nicolás adapted. He knew such parties and masquerades like the back of his hand, as if it were engraved by his own father since the start of his childhood. While the skills he learned as a Cormond continued to prove vital, Nicolás still despised his father for virtually banishing him from his own home. That was unforgivable, and the real reason why Nicolás sought to create a foundation of influence within the Senate. Not purely out of a desire for power, but rather to find enough allies to overcome that of his father, and ultimately one day oust him from power. After all, the Republic sought to do the same with Alderaan should Lucille be found guilty. Perhaps Nicolás could do the same with Brentaal.

But that was a scheme he would not reveal to Freya, not yet. For now, he would allow the two to sink further into their dance and their magnetic presence. His business on Empress Teta was done, and professionalism was now out the window. Still, as he continued in the motions, Nicolás began to notice Freya was starting to see this differently. Even now, she shifted from referring him by his first name and to calling him Cormond, only to then question him about how many girls he had sifted through like sand. A good question for a clever woman such as herself. But it was a question and look that revealed to Nicolás that, unlike himself, she was not too intent on going further with their relationship. Not that he minded. At least she had gone this far, and perhaps in time, that could always change.

Depending on how she took his answer, though. An answer he attempted to answer truthfully, and at the same time, deflect entirely. “With a charm like mine I wouldn’t be surprised if you expected hundreds.” He smiled, back to fueling his own ego before returning to a sense of humility. “But don’t worry. You’re only the second woman to have danced with me in such a lavish ball, but certainly twice as beautiful.” He winked. Of course, Nicolás was only flattering her. He had been through enough men and women alike to go well into the double digits. If he took into account his earliest days on Brentaal, his estimate could go even beyond that. Not that he wanted the Senator to know, again. He might be a lascivious and shameless, but that didn’t mean he couldn’t commit. Because he could. Most of the time.

Meanwhile, the next song continued on a little longer, slow and steady. Other well-dressed men and women clung to one another as they shuffled along the dance floor, all around the two veiled Senators as they danced in the center. In the spotlight of the pavilion as well as the stars above, the pair would continue on as well. His flirtatious nudges, her attempted dodges, his inviting gaze, her tempting look back. It would be a long night, but to Nicolás, all too short. He might have convinced Senator Velstei to form an alliance, but it seemed there could no pressuring her into anything further. His attempt at pier pressure would, sadly, go noticed but overlooked. Still, he was only glad to have got what he wanted in the first place: an ally, a friend.

Fin.​