Star Wars CLOSED THE GALAXY AT WAR: EPISODE V: ACT I: EMERGENCE

IC: General Torian, Captain Galen, Storm’s Eye
Location: Imperial weigh point - a set of coordinates off the confluence of the Hydian Way and Perlemian Trade Route on the way to Muunilist

A crackle came over the headset of the Renegade pilot. “Renegade 1, you are clear for the hangar. Once you have landed, lower your ramp, and exit with weapons holstered and shouldered.”

Torian heard the communication in his headset as well. Are you kidding me? He thought. He pressed the comm. mike on his headset. “This General Torian of the Alliance. What assurances can you give me that the threat is contained?” There was annoyance in his voice, as he looked out the front view port of the shuttle as they approached.

The Alliance shuttle slowly moved into position as it approached the hangar. Dead bodies were scattered everywhere along with scorch marks all over the hangar bay. The Imperials look like they took a beating of epic proportion, he thought. “Can you find a clean spot to land?” Looking over at the pilot.

“Sir, if I can’t then will just hover.”

“Very good lieutenant.”

The voice of a tired Imperial came over the comms. “This Commander Buro, General, sir. The hangar is secure.” The General could see that the surviving crew members of the Hidden Dagger were beat down. It didn’t look like they had much fight left in them. Torian relaxed a bit.

“Roger that.” he acknowledged. He got up from his seat to head to the ramp. “He clicked back over to the pilot. Keep your guns ready. If anything other than those Imperials move, blow it away!”

“YES SIR, General.”

Aboard the Storm’s Eye.

“Captain! Two other ships have decanted from hyperspace, port side!”

Captain Galen walked over to the radar screen to check on the new arrivals.

“Captain, a Nebulon-B Frigate has broken from the defensive position and is heading to attack the alien spacecraft.” Another officer on the command deck hollered. So much to handle at once. Commanding a ship required the officer to be alert at all times and able to make decisions on the fly.

“That’s an Imperial problem Lieutenant.” She spoke with calm. Turning back to her radar officer. “Can you identify the new arrivals?”

“Yes Captain! One is an Acclamator-class cargo ship but she is coming apart...”

“Captain, new threat! The other new arrival has begun to fire upon us.

She straightened up. “SNAFU”, she whispered. “Maneuver around the Acclamator. Keep her between us and the new threat. Concentrate all fire on the current threat. Have the Corvettes engage the new arrival while we maneuver.”

“Aye Captain. The Imperials are also communicating that they are falling back into a defensive pattern.”

“Comms, aye. Received.” Galen said coolly. But why is their other frigate attacking? She wondered.

“Hail the Lt. Ailes and see if they can engage the new threat and buy us some time.”

She switched a dial on the comm. officer’s panel. “General Torian, Captain Galen here. We had another alien ship decant from hyperspace. We don’t have much time left.”

Hidden Dagger Hangar

The Alliance shuttle settled down on the deck clear of any bodies and debris. The shuttle sighed, releasing steam onto the black deck of the Imperial hangar. Just as Torian and his men stepped out of the shuttle, Captain Galen came over his earpiece. The rebel team kept their weapons slug at their sides in case of any changes in the Imperials or any surprises from their new threat.

Without wasting time with introductions, “We’re in a little rush so if you are ready to go, I suggest you get on board now.”

Commander Buro looked up at Torian, so this is the mighty General of the Rebels, he said to himself. The Imperial Commander was almost a foot shorter than the Rebel general.

Torian looked around at the other Imperial stormtroopers and noticed some were still wearing their helmets. “And Commander, no helmets. Instruct your troopers to take them off before boarding.”

TAG: Pash, C_O

 

~IC~ Agent Alexandr Kallus
Location: Coruscant - Galactic Senate Building - Senate Offices

The door to one of the offices opened, then closed and locked as a man, dressed smartly, stepped out.

"Take over will you, Regis?" Alexandr Kallus walked past the ISB Agents who were setting up shop, commandeering several empty workstations belonging to the senatorial staff of the Executor- new Emperor’s offices. They were to keep an eye on the questioning and interrogation of the HNN talent and staff who were held in the empty offices, separated to make sure they did not corroborate and fabricate false statements. They had almost blundered the coverage of the reception and endangering the security of the world of Naboo by spinning a false story without verifying the facts. Fear mongering.

It goes deeper still, the trail back showed records of shady investments with corporate tycoons. Purchasing of lands and development projects… shell companies belonging to… yet to be discovered unknown parties.

The Ledaren, Quinlan Vos, had yet to return and so Kallus defaulted to his own methods. Hgubmill had answered all he was willing to answer, for the moment. Yet, the Naboo are further implicated in this conspiracy as the Queen's handmaidens, her physician and their Senator of Naboo were brought in as accessories to the seditious movement… As far as Kallus was concerned, they can be held for now in the office rooms and under observation of the ISB. It was time to let the fear of the unknown take over.

"Well, hang on. Wait a moment." Regis exasperatedly looked up from the datapad. "We haven't finished."

"Nothing to it. Just let them sweat it out." Kallus instructed as he tossed a wink.

"Where do you think you're going, Kallus? We still need to debrief-"

"For some fresh air." He smirked as he stepped to the lifts. As the doors closed, he adjusted the cuff of his sleeve.

TAG: To be continued

 

~OOC~This is a joint post with Corellian_Outrider and Pashatemur.


~IC~ Queen Sabé Amidala II, Colonel Wullf Yularen, Agent Alexandr Kallus, and Imperial Ursean Capt. Viggo Magnusson

Location: Coruscant - Galactic Senate Building - Senate Atrium

Sabé nearly faltered with a quick course change, hiding a lopsided grimace behind the “mask” of her placid face. For a brief moment, disappointment frustrated her serene composure. Seeing Anakin surrounded by his “happy little family,” the “wrong” family, she would miss a perfect opportunity to loosen the Imperial seat, but it would cost her her own reputation. Still, it would be worth it to thwart the young Empress’ attempts at grace!...

There he was! Miraculously recovered from his wounds in the final battle of the war with the CIS and other older scars and losses, as well. No one seemed to be bothered by this! However, there he stood in his Ursean court attire-tall, charming, and handsome. You couldn’t miss him and sure enough, just as she had told Giles Senob earlier in the evening, all the flotsam and jetsam had floated to the top to pay court to the new and young Emperor. She reminded herself that the evening was young yet and that it was bound to be grueling. Was she so eager to do him a mischief! She hadn’t ordered it, but it was impossible not to relish the near catastrophe His Majesty just barely avoided. Of course she was implicated and while in his heart, Sabé knew that Anakin was not prepared to believe the attempted media sabotage was her doing, he was still suspicious. He was likely to confront her this very evening on a number of subjects, and most likely to question her on the whereabouts of the twins. She truly did not know where Luke and Tanis were, but she was glad of that fact. Anakin had on several occasions seemed quite close to disbelief of her ignorance and she had feared a fatal outburst. Though, she had to admit, he’d changed over the past few years; he was less severe, more...restrained...

One corner of her mouth dimpling, he’d be even more angry were he to know why her attention turned momentarily to an equally charismatic figure now being seated amongst the ruling elite on the royal dais. However, Sabé turned her gaze quickly to the side, though keeping that person in her peripheral view. If Yularen continued as he was leading, Sabé would pass close enough to warn the person with regard to keeping from making eye contact. Enemies of the Galactic Executor had a way of disappearing.

Like Padmé, for instance who was lost, and likely, shot down by Ursean military and though Anakin vehemently denied it, Sabé could never resolve her doubt. The Naboo had a discrete agent in the Kavalan Palace when Padmé and Hannes’ ship exploded in the high mountains. The Re had received a call as he departed the Palace just before a bomb had exploded there, nearly killing the Reina and the Enfanta. In those days, Anakin was darkest. The agent believed he likely sent out low flying fighters to locate the source of the call just before Padmé’s ship was destroyed.

In the years she spent as a “guest” in Ursa, Sabé had subtly dug at many unsolved mysteries. She’d managed to manipulate a couple of Palace guards and staff, enlisting them to assist the NSS opporative to even escape once. She watched closely as the Empire grew, as Anakin seemed to have evolved from Jedi to cudgel to Re, Anakin, Lord Vader, was still the “poster boy,” the “hero with no fear” in spite of being capricious and undisciplined. (He was perhaps less so, now.) He could charm the serpents from the trees-literally.

Seeing the crowd that had thronged to this "feast of fools," Sabé pondered how that charm would meet a serpent of his own making and match. His small coterie of supporters could not save him from his mistakes. She almost felt sorry for them watching the little group peel off in various directions.

The Empress seemed to be absorbed by the throng. Sabé hated that Marie Celeste piqued her ire. It was unprofessional. Sabé was a highly trained agent, with a highly dangerous mission and in the line of duty, she had found Anakin’s weak spots, made the most of them, and she ventured that she knew him better than anyone, better than he knew himself and certainly better than his witless life mate. Celeste could never replace Padme, but Sabé could. She stood in her dead sister’s place and to her, Anakin had spoken his thoughts. She indulged his haunted grasp and gave him to believe she returned his love and reflected as much of Padme as she could. So well had she “performed” her duty, her mentor and teacher, Director Fadine Deetsch of the Naboo Secret Security, desired to remove the Queen from her mission. In short, for Deetsch, Sabé was incapable of performing her duty longer and acting without bias. “You’re in love with that monster!” Here Sabé allowed a small smile.

But that smile barely bloomed before they reached Anakin and that Togruta female at his side before Colonel Yularen headed them on a tangent away from the Emperor. Sabe turned her head the least bit and almost imperceptibly shook it, as if to say to someone nearby and watching, “No!”

---

Timing at functions can convey different meanings. With the seguidilla ending and the Emperor’s reunion with his family, Colonel Yularen decided to err on the side of caution. He altered their course away from the centre of that social circle to minimise any attention seeking the Nabooian Queen might do to upstage the gathering... even further than she already has behind the scenes.

"Don't say a word, Colonel. I've got eyes on you." A voice came through Yularen's earpiece. Agent Kallus. "I want to test out a theory."

Yularen wasn't sure why Kallus had moved from his post but there better be a good reason for doing so. He nodded, as though in greeting someone though acknowledging that he had heard Kallus.

"Ah, there he is. Veer a few degrees to your left and keep walking…" Kallus instructions came through.

Yularen lead Sabé past a gauntlet of several officers. Brief words of greeting and acknowledgements were exchanged along the way.

"See that chap? Flamboyant attire about ten metres ahead of you? Walk close to him but don't acknowledge…"

There was the gentleman as Kallus had aptly described, standing out amongst a small gaggle of businessmen and corporate heads. The Colonel caught on to what Kallus was playing at, considering the gentleman in question was the one and only Elwis Bontraar. The tycoon was linked indirectly with their current ongoing investigation surrounding the seditious movement and the ‘guests’ upstairs.

As they neared, the Colonel's eyes scanned the faces of the other guests in the vicinity for someone familiar to use-

“I think he spotted you - most likely your guest. Just act natural.” Kallus’ voice in the earpiece warned.

Yularen could see Bontraar had broken off his conversation with another notable figure, the Head of Imperial Center Construction and Contracts Division, and turned to face them. Yularen felt a subtle change in the Queen’s composure-

A portly man in Imperial dress uniform strutted out from their right and crossed their path, empty glass in one hand and wearing an unhappy expression on his face.

"Grand Moff Kintaro, a pleasure to see you here." Yularen said in greeting.

"Why thank you, Colonel! How could I miss such an occasion? I suppose your glass has gone dry too?" The rotund man chuckled. "You are on the job, of course your glass is dry. Oh! Here he is! The man of the moment!"

Kintaro’s aide had appeared, and out of breath, to refill his superior’s glass.

"Enjoy the festivities." Yularen bid farewell as the Moff excused himself, the man’s attention was elsewhere, and led Sabé away. No doubt Kintaro had raced from Talofan to be here though Yularen wondered which power camp the man would be in after this evening. He also wondered if Kallus had gotten the results he needed.

"Very good Colonel." Kallus remarked. “We’ll make a field agent of you, yet. I’ll be in touch.”

The cheek!

A few other officers raised a glass in salute and greeting in Yularen's direction as they passed them by. Yularen recognised them from Admiral Okins' group.

Sabé could barely resist rolling her eyes.

"I suppose there is someone you should meet." Yularen said as he signalled an Ursean Officer that was tending to two ladies another person in foreign dress uniform. The timing of the moment presented an unique opportunity. "Good evening, Captain Magnusson. I trust you and your companions are having a wonderful evening."

The tall blond Ursean in Imperial uniform offered a relaxed smile and saluted sharply, but with ease. “Colonel Yularen,” he said amiably in heavy accent. “So god to see you!”

He turned his grey-blue eyes to Sabé and almost lost his smile for a hair of a second before clicking his heels and bowing by half. “Of course, an Ursean would recognize the Lady who would be the peoples’ Queen and happy are we all for your restoration in your own land, Naboo.”

Continuing immediately, he turned to Jori and then to Sabé and the Colonel, “And surely you must recognize Her Grace, Jori, the Duchesse Atreides, leader of the House Atreides and the Union.” Viggo, then gestured to Dennii and then to James Xavier...

Sabé lifted her chin and gave each of the Union people a cool ‘once over.’

“...And this is Her Grace’s sister, Princess Atreides, Dennii Sunwalker...” Viggo paused for a moment and then presented the Lord Admiral Xavier. "The Lord Admiral served as an observer and advisor in the final campaign that ended the 10 year war with the CIS. I would like to offer my sincerest gratitude, Lord Admiral for your contribution in bringing this costly and tragic war to an end. I’m sure all join me in thanking you and Her Grace, indeed the Union. It has been a dangerous time for all and many actions have been taken in defence, that perhaps were based on erroneous suppositions. No one body is free of mistakes or reigns in perfection. As our Empress enjoins us, it is time for a new paradigm, to rebuild not only the government, but even, to learn to exceed our grasp and cultivate a community of enlightened forward thinking and understanding.” He raised a glass of bubbly in a toast...


TAG: Jori, Dennii, Xavier

 

~IC~ Zaa Vashee - Queen of Shili
Location: Coruscant - Galactic Senate Building - Senate Atrium

"Believe me Your Highness, the pleasure has been all mine. It's so wonderful to be able to move with a partner who actually enjoys them self whilst doing this." Jayden had said. "If I can be of any further assistance, by all means please do ask. I would be honoured to be at your Service."

"Then the pleasure was mutual." The corner of Zaa's lips lifted, dimples in her cheeks as she smiled to bowing Prince. This was a curiosity, the tip of her right lek twitched, although she wondered if it was his nature or there was something more. "That is very generous of you to offer your valuable time to me..."

Her gaze shifted as that presence felt close, coming from behind…

Zaa stepped across to Jayden's side and glanced across to the other guests and her eyes fell upon the cause of the presence. It belonged to another female Togruta, burnt orange skin and white markings, montrals and lekku with blue stripes, passed them by. It was like looking at a reflection only this one was heading away. There was a spring to the other Togruta's step, almost flighty as she wove between the other guests. The blue fabrics of the skirts swished and changed tone, studded stones glimmer.

Zaa bit the lower right corner of her lip as she saw Mataara, her majordomo, withdrew to follow and noted the way the nearby Senator from Onderon turned his head. She smirked and then looked to the Prince of Bakura. "…I might take you up on the offer."

TAG: Crown Prince Jayden of Bakura

---

~IC~ Commissar Ahsoka Tano
Location: Coruscant - Galactic Senate Building - Senate Atrium

Just breathe… Ahsoka told herself. The build up… the anticipation of seeing one of her closest friends again… yet the crowd in the way felt like an obstacle course before her. She found herself being greeted by unknown faces, some gathering towards her as she deftly and politely slip past and onwards towards the tables.

The deeper she went, the more she sensed she was being followed. She caught her breath as she noticed three sets of montrals over the heads of the guests, like fins of the Firaxan sharks poking out of the waters of Manaan. Please don't… please… she thought to herself as she eyed them and saw them turn.

"Why thank you, too kind of you to say so." Ahsoka smiled as a Twi'lek couple commended her display during the seguidilla. "I hope you both have a splendid evening." She angled away though felt as though the walls were closing in on her-

Ahsoka stepped out of the crowd and before the table where Riyo Chuchi, Bail Organa were. She didn't recognise the others but felt the sensation of being followed eased off as she took a half skip to close the distance. Her former friend turned from her conversation and looked in her direction. Ahsoka caught her breath and smiled as she inclined her head. "Senator Chuchi, Senator Organa." She greeted them both. "Forgive my interruption. It is a pleasure to see you this evening."

TAG: Senator Riyo Chuchi, Senator Bail Organa

 

~OOC~ Note for Agent Varik and Oskure. This post gives a brief recap of the events of the station as a bit of backstory, though it is limited from Dash’s perspective.

~IC~ Dash Rendar
Location: Streets of Coruscant - Departing the Marais Station Market District

Sparks danced as the wires came into contact with each other.

The engine thrummed to life.

Lifting a swoop from the parking zone of the maglev station, Dash took off without looking behind. As much as he wanted to regroup with his crew, he didn’t dare risk being followed by who knows who else. Last thing he wanted to do was endanger the Jedi he had set out to observe and protect. Changing lanes, he turned the block and went in the direction the renegade Flarestar was heading since it kicked up a mynock’s nest by the Marais District Maglev Station.

It was an omen of course; for good or bad, remains to be seen. There was an increased Imperial presence that had the station all gridlocked, no doubt searching for someone and he suspected who it might be. Not that he could have done much any way with Rouser in the way. At least the incident proved enough to divert the focus of Rouser and mislead him that the ship in question was connected to whatever ‘payday’ the man suspected was going on.

How did one get into such a situation? It was supposed to be a simple job. Dash mused as he angled the swoop into one of the traffic lanes. The job was to drop off a passenger on Coruscant, then be on standby for them to get out. Simple, maybe. Not exactly easy when one is on the Empire’s blacklisted… That and the increased security with the end of the war, the fall of their Emperor… not to mention the attack on Coruscant the day or so earlier. With the system on ultra high alert, Dash was lucky they even scrape through such scrutiny and made it planetside.

Who knows where that passenger, Renata Tivoli, had gone to. If that was her actual name. However, Renata’s friend happened by and altered their contracted parameters… and to gain his trust, had entrusted her secret to him… that she was a Jedi. Master Emi-to Shuri. That was not what he was expecting, nor what he had signed up for… however, she did assist in getting them out of a tangle with some nefarious port authorities before parting ways. Master Shuri said she had other matters to attend to although but will touch base once she required Dash’s services. That was easier said than done-

Dash cursed.

Emergency response vehicles swerved into the swoop’s path forcing Dash to pull up and veer out of the way. Ahead the lanes of traffic had been disrupted as though an invisible blade had swathed a path through the intersection. The emergency vehicles slowed to a halt by several mangled airspeeders. No doubt caused by the Flarestar’s actions. Dash sped past and following the trail of destruction, ahead he could hear the sounds of distant sirens of the robotic police forces reverberate through the manufactured city canyon.

The ship was no doubt originally from the Ohnaka gang, a band of weequay pirates that was once based at Florrum until the base had been wiped out. Word had it that regarding what happened to the base was that it all had to do with Dooku’s displeasure, that he had been responsible for the ‘hit’. Rumours further suggested something more sinister had occurred at Florrum.

None of that mattered now.

Why was he doing this? He had imposed a simple rule to not meddle with affairs outside of the contracted parametres. Don’t get involved! Master Shuri can handle herself! So why was he breaking that simple cardinal rule? A sense of showing gratitude for what she did back at the port? Some sense of honour? Whatever you want to call it, had compelled him to stick his neck out for her and follow like a guardian angel.

No sooner had Master Shuri left the port, Dash spotted that she was tailed by a white garbed, hooded stranger... It took coordinated efforts with Leebo to tail them through the maglev system, only to be separated by complications of the Imperial kind at the Marais station. Dash assumed something had tipped them off about there being a force sensitive in the area… was it that mysterious white-garbed hooded man? Or was it Pascale Rouser? He did not know how or why that man was tailing him. If not for the heads up about Rouser from his newest crew member, the enigmatic ‘Jenifer’, Dash hated to think what might have happened if he learnt of the man’s presence too late.

So here he was, chasing the Flarestar through the streets of Coruscant to lead Pascale away from Master Shuri. Who knows what happened to that mysterious robed man… at least ‘Blondie’ was with Shuri and they should be having a more pleasant experience than he was.

TAG: Quinlan Vos, Emi-to Shuri, Adrias Stark

 

OOC: This is a joint post between me and @pashatemur , thank you!

IC: Duchess Jori Atreides Corrino, Princess Dennii/Drakoniss Atreides-Sunwalker, Lord Admiral James Xavier, Imperial Ursean Capt. Viggo Magnusson

Location: Coruscant - Galactic Senate Building - Senate Atrium

Jori’s attention was divided between her dance partner and the surroundings. She wanted to follow what was going on. The Emperor had arrived and that understandably caused a stir. Jori wondered whether she would be able to talk with him during the reception. Earlier today she was mostly preoccupied with the poodoo her people had made by trying to assassinate Dennii and sending her on a self-destructive spiral. The whole thing was sooo frustrating, as soon as she managed to put out one fire another one started. It was a never ending struggle.

She did not even have time to prepare properly for the ball. That was even more frustrating. Her staff, along with the help of the CSS, had compiled psych profiles of the most prominent figures. It also included most important speeches, an overview of their political leanings and views, how they had voted and what legislation they had proposed. Jori liked to be prepared, she needed to at least understand the people with whom she had to deal with. Of course it had to do with finding the right levers.

Then they were approached by an older man, accompanying the last person Jori wanted to meet, the Queen of Naboo. They were joined by Dennii and the Lord Admiral, at least there was that. Instinctively Jori erected her mental barriers, she was not sure whether the other woman was a psyker, but that did not matter. That was her “combat” mode, her rational half was telling her not to try anything. She had been struggling with her impulsiveness for some time. Jori was known for her explosive anger, a weakness she was still struggling with. She managed to keep her composure, at least she hoped so.

Dennii had spent the time trying to purge the alcohol from her system by using the Force. It was an exhausting exercise that left her somewhat dizzy. At first she had been so hurt by Jori’s slap, but then she realized that her sister was right. As a member of the Union ruling family she had other responsibilities. Of course she was still hurting inside, but she wanted to be there for Jori and not make her life difficult. Dennii was holding her tears and her anguish for later… when she was alone in her room. Her emotions were a whirlwind that, if she was not careful, could sweep her off her feet again and make her do something stupid. Dennii reached for Drakoniss, but he remained silent, it was his way of giving her space. He could only provide support and also he did not want to sound preachy and push her away.

She wanted to speak to Jori, so she asked Uncle James to accompany her, as she did not trust her own feet. To the casual observer they looked like they were going to the dance floor. The more careful observer would notice how unstable she walked and her ashen face. Dennii barely spoke to the Lord Admiral, besides she could sense that he was uncomfortable. He had been preoccupied with something else, someone else. That almost made her smile, it was good to see him that way. As soon as Dennii opened her mouth to address Jori they were approached by an Imperial Officer, a high ranking by the looks of him, and a beautiful stately woman. She looked vaguely familiar...

Jori was here, on Coruscant, to de-escalate this idiotic conflict so that she could focus on the internal issues of the Union. The Duchess was sure she would be forced to swallow the bitter medicine. The Senate was not known for its tolerance and friendliness, especially now that it was an Imperial Senate.

This whole situation worried Jori, but there was nothing to be done at the moment. She had to do damage control. Her people were not helping either. She half thought that the whole situation was somehow orchestrated. She did not pay much attention to what they were doing. Her lack of experience and complacency lead to this disaster. Another thing to be addressed. Jori was good at improvising and covering her weaknesses up. The thing was that they were in a high stake game and actual lives were going to be affected. She needed to keep her act together.

The Duchess focused on Viggo’s speech. It seems she had underestimated him. That brought back some amusement. It was refreshing to be so pleasantly surprised. She had this nagging feeling that there was more going on that she was lead to believe. Oh there won’t be any sleep tonight, she was going to do her research. Her next steps should be careful and carefully calculated. She was not facing her own people, whom she understood, she was facing “the Big Boys” now and as charming as she could be that would not save her or the Union. Minimize the damage…

Jori swallowed her pride and curtsied, after all a Queen outranked a Duchess. “It is so good to finally meet you, Your Highness!” she smiled “I hope, as the good captain said, that we will be able to build a new paradigm and resolve this… misunderstanding.” she raised her glass.

So the lady was a Queen, that prompted Dennii to curtsy as well. The Lord Admiral bowed to her. Jori’s dance partner gave a rather pompous speech. The young woman did not like these things, but she was used to it from her time in the Union. He would surely fit in there rather nicely. Dennii noticed something in Jori, she seemed to like the man. That was odd as despite her sister’s seeming extraversion she was a very private person and did not allow people to get close to her.

Another thing she noticed or rather sensed was that Jori seemed to have raised the “shields”, so that meant that the Queen in question was the one of Naboo. Dennii felt a pang of hurt as she remembered Padme Amidala. She was nice to her and Alpha… ‘No, no, no, don’t go there...’ as she could sense her emotions rising again. She needed to remain calm and focused. The young woman found a distraction, she noticed the Lord Admiral’s ears turning red as the younger Captain was praising him. That elicited a small smile from her. At least that was a start.

“You are too kind, but I am afraid my involvement in the ending of this conflict was rather minimal. After all, as you mentioned, I was just an observer, the whole credit goes to the men and women fighting and… to the Emperor of course.” he too raised his glass.

Dennii blushed as she did not have anything to drink. She had to restrain herself and not repeat that moronic behavior from earlier before.

“I’ll not joust with you on the matter of your input, but gratitude remains unchanged. Please,” said Viggo beckoning a droid server, “Let’s toast to war’s end.” He took a goblet of water and offered it to Dennii with a slight bow and turned to Yularen and Sabe. “Won’t you join in a toast? I’m sure we can all agree on the merit of ending this long conflict.”

TAG: Colonel Yularen, Queen Sabe Amidala, Anyone else

 

IC: Queen Sabé Amidala II
Location: Coruscant - Galactic Senate Building - Senate Atrium

One pale and exquisitely manicured hand brushed the deep emerald satin of her gown before Sabé raised her eyes to, first, Colonel Yularen, where she lingered for several long moments, and then to the Duchess. She reached to the serving tray, the droid had presented and deftly whisked up a glass of bubbly as Capt. Magnusson, raised his glass. ”What a lovely little speech Captain Magnusson! Very well then. Please, a toast! In the midst of such an entourage, Her Grace must take the lead. I await with rapt anticipation!” said the Queen with as brilliant a smile, as she could muster. “Please, Duchess, a toast!” said Sabé, looking to the others to encourage Jori. “Do not keep us waiting!”

TAG: Yularen, Jori, Dennii, Xavier, Kallus, and Magnusson

 

OOC: This is a joint post with WarmNyota_SweetAyesha, who very kindly consented to this collaboration and contributed her character, Agent Rahara Varik. Much gratitude! Thank you.

IC: Oskure Volant aka InquisitorSeventh Sister or 7th and ISB Agent Rahara Varik
LOCATION: Senate Atrium

In spite of her prosthetic leg, 7th Sister managed to sway her hips as she wandered through the crowd of onlookers to the Seguidilla, occasionally flourishing her hands and arms in sync with the dancers.

Meandering, she would now and then wind through a crowd far and thick enough to lose sight of ISB agent Varik. 7th would slow her progress till, looking over her shoulder, she would catch sight of the lady and clucking to herself, she would move on, taking a drink from a surprised onlooker, and downing it as she moved along, casting the glass into a planter. Then, after a while she met with another inquisitor, dressed in black and wearing a mask, armor, etcetera-obviously, not feeling the mood of the evening at all. The two met with acrimony. The man was a head taller than Oskure and he gesticulated and took a step toward 7th in a menacing way. Before lowering his voice, he could be heard to say, “You should not have met with Vader at all. Our plans have taken a detour...”

Oskure held up her hand, and the menacing inquisitor quieted, but gesticulated again and moved his body to emphasize what he was saying.

7th finally said, “So you’ll have to be patient. We’ll talk about this later. Tonight is a “no go.”

The inquisitor stood silent for a moment, and then taking up another thread, answered, “You have been missing the action. See that human on the dias? He’s been watching that one over there, name’s Bontraar. He’s the one who’s building in the Dead Zone-some sort of entertainment facility. Something is going on between Bontraar and that fellow talking with the Grand Vizier. Then there’s that small human female, over there...She’s not Imperial-Professional. She has a definite purpose here. She’s been watching key targets and assets that I’ve been watching, including me. She’s “inked” at the wrist. Distinct figure that: concentric circles bisected where each half is the inverse of the other. I haven’t seen it before.”

His voice did not carry far as he spoke in hushed tones. 7th laughed, “I wonder why!?” she said sarcastically, gesturing to his mask and armor, “You blend in so well.” Nodding, she made her way through the dancers who were applauding, the seguidilla having just ended. The masked inquisitor followed and grasped 7th’s arm angrily and she turned to glare at him, the guests around them backing away nervously.

Oskure looked to where the massive inquisitor grasped her arm and then back up into his mask.

Speaking quietly and hissing through her clenched teeth, 7th tugged him closer and smiling, nonetheless, said, “I’ll make you “see-through” if you don’t back off!”

Something in her tone and stance seemed to have convinced him that she wouldn’t hesitate and he stood upright and nodded slowly. “We’ll speak of this later.”

“You must mean the ‘royal’ ‘we,’ because I’ve said enough!” said 7th resting her arm from his grasp and walking away with a wink.

Oskure slipped through the crowd noting that Colonel Yularen and the Naboo Queen were “making nice” with the Union leader, Duchess Atreides. She’d been tailing the ISB director and Her Majesty, Amidala II as they veered here and there across the floor of the Atrium, all the while also watching the ruling elite on the Imperial dais. She caught what looked suspiciously like a coded exchange between the Naboo and the real estate investor in colorful dress.

The inquisitor dared not take her eyes from what seemed a developing situation, but she didn’t have to see, Agent Varik with her eyes to know she was keeping Oskure in her sites. “Watchers watching watchers!” thought Oskure with a bemused smile and thinking of a funny little serial animation she would occasionally catch when a youngling. Jedi didn’t have such leisures back in the day, but when out of the temple, a resourceful youngling could catch such things while on “field trips.”

This slow surveillance was utterly boring and Oskure prayed for someone to misstep! Why was she thinking of Jedi foolery? She shook her head and noted some other party from the dais sidling up to the investor-what was that man’s name? Ah yes, Blud...Elias Blud-he was the stuff of very nasty rumors-horrific, even, if true! He was sporting a hairless nape and he had cold gray eyes with a predatory glint. Something he whispered in Bontrarr’s ear seemed to distract the investor from Amidala II. The thought of that man, Blud, touching another’s skin started shivers up and down her spine.

Strange evening with all the Urseans in the room. So many force sensitives annnnd, three of note! One in the Union camp, one-well ...how about that! And another... Oskure turned round abruptly till her eyes met agent Varik’s!

Rahara Varik kept a keen eye on Colonel Yularen and the Nabooian Queen and also on 7th Sister. The latter seemed to be in an altercation with someone in armor and mask, very much like a throwback to a Sith.

She frowned as she caught sight of Agent Kallus. That one always bore watching. she took a drink from one of the server droids and headed over to where 7th was just ending her soft and intense confrontation.

Alone in her little clearing, Oskure smirked at Varik's query. "You mean, my "brother" inquisitor?" She clicked her tongue and gestured after him as he cut a swath through the crowd. "He likes to be shown deference and when he feels slighted, well, you know! He's not the sharpest "tool." But, he's caught something that I saw also," said Oskure, brushing her red hair from before an eye, as she leaned close to Varik in a conspiratorial manner. Quickly she pointed out Bontrarr, the real estate investor, and the bald man, who, in contrast to the flamboyant investor, was elegantly and impeccably dress in a well tailored suit, and how Bontraar and the Queen of Naboo had seemed briefly to exchanged signals.

"Fascinating." Varik responded. "Layers within layers... the Nabooians bear watching. They always like to present themselves as what you see is what I am, but we can never forget that our prior, unlamented Emperor was from there originally!" Varik's tone was full of irony.

"Huh! You know, kiddo, you're growing on me!" said Oskure, knuckles on hip. She looked Varik from head to toe and sighed and put a finger to the corner of her lips. "Let's be a little less obvious with our comments," she said, obscuring her lips from view. "But, yes, I think we need to get closer. Those layers are starting to look denser with every second and we need to play in traffic if we're going to find out what all this cloak and dagger nonsense is all about-say, is there any way you could look a little less conspicuous?"

Rahara smirked. "I'm afraid I would proclaim "Agent" even in the scruffiest or most overblown getup. It's a state of mind." She snatched up a glass of a very purple liquor and took a long sip. "Whew! This stuff is potent! OK, I can put on an act that I've imbibed more than I should, so any out of the way comment can be put down to intoxication." She grinned. "Let me insert myself as unobtrusively as possible near where the Colonel is...?"

Oskure crossed her arms and stepped a little closer. "Before we link pinky fingers, I'm going to tell you that several of the people we're keeping tabs on are force sensitive," she paused a moment, "kind of like you-rough around the edges and untrained, but there is one over there," here, Oskure gestured with her chin to the group in which Yularen stood, "who is trained. You watch yourself, particularly around the Noobian Queen. I'm going to mingle with the lovely crowd on the dais-don't worry! I'm not leaving Coruscant! If anyone gets wise to you, just ...vomit. "Alright 'Friendy," said Oskure with a flourish of her right pinky finger, "To work!"

TAG: Rahara Varik, open

 

IC: Duchess Jori Atreides-Corrion, Princess Dennii/Drakoniss Sunwalker-Atreides, Lord Admiral James Xavier
Location: Senate Atrium, Coruscant

Instead of feeling offended by the Queen’s tone Jori felt amusement. The Naboo had revealed something about herself. Something that might prove useful later. So she decided to take the bait and lay a subtle trap as she wanted to test something that she had heard about her. Jori beamed a warm smile and raised her glass.

“I should like to propose a toast to the health of the people of the Empire and the people of the Union.

I propose a toast to the health of the Imperial and Union people because they have won in this war.

I propose a toast to the health of the Imperial and Union people not only because they possess a clear mind, a staunch character, and patience.

Our Government made not a few errors, we experienced at moments a desperate situation when the Separatists invaded us, when our Armies was retreating, abandoning our own worlds and cities, abandoning them because there was no other way out. A different people could have said to the Governments: “You have failed to justify our expectations. Go away. We shall install another government which will conclude peace with CIS and assure us a quiet life.” The Union and Imperial people, however, did not take this path because they trusted the correctness of the policy of its Government, and it made sacrifices to ensure the rout of the Separatists. This confidence of the Imperial and Union people in their Governments proved to be that decisive force which ensured the historic victory over the enemy, over separatism.

The Imperial people and their Government came to the help of the Union in our times of need, when all seemed lost.

Thanks to them, to the Imperial and Union people, for this confidence!

To the health of the Imperial and Union people!”

Jori wanted to see her reaction given what Dennii had told her about Padme Amidala, she wanted to see whether the Queen would drink to the people of the Empire and its Government.

TAG: Queen Sabe, Colonel Yularen, Captain Magnusson

OOC: The toast is a modified version of the one that Joseph Stalin gave in ‘45 to the Soviet people.

 

OCC: This is a joint post with Corellian_Outrider. Always a pleasure, C_O and I thank you for your talent, but also for your patience and help.

IC: Queen Sabé Amidala II, Colonel Wullf Yularen, Agent Alexandr Kallus
Location: Coruscant - Galactic Senate Building - Senate Atrium

Urseans typically did not care for the structure of the Empire, but their Re had been the Imperial Executor and was now, Emperor, their Riena and Matriarch, the Empress. Ursa was a parliamentary constitutional monarchy, whereas the Empire had pretended to that structure, but was an absolute monarchy at best. At worst, it had acted as an autocracy, it’s Emperor, answerable to no one, the Imperial senate, relegated to minor interior policy regulation and having no real power to make policy or law, much less give power to the voice of the people. Even if the Senate had been permitted a bit of “muscle,” so many in the Senate had fallen to self-serving projects, filling their personal coffers and siphoning off public funds for private hands.

And Jori Atreides’ Union, it’s internescene dramas and secret power plays were widely noted in the Galaxy. Many had tried to profit by the intrigues of it’s numerous factions, but the churning sea of “sharks” were so good at subverting one another, beneath the veneer of custom and culture, turmoil was constant. In such a state, outcomes were hard to predict.

Viggo looked up toward the tiers of balconies rising into the transpara-steel vaulting above the Atrium floor. Things had taken an interesting turn! He considered Jori’s toast and knew that he’d need to respond in a manner that reflected a supportable statement.

Sabé, however, beat him to the punch, completely disregarding the Ursean count and Imperial captain intended a response and was poised on the edge of conversation to deliver.

“‘Chosen?’” queried the queen. “Hum! ‘Choice’ requires an awareness of the presence of options and that requires education. You think because people norm and comply and give in to bully tactics, when they don’t even recognize there’s another way, you think that the people made a choice?! But of course you do! Ignorance is bliss! Teach them to live without freedom, self-will or voice, teach them to ignore want and suffering, to do without air to breath and food to eat, teach them to cling to their enslavers, to live in the shadows. Do it long enough and they’re marvelously trained little monsters!”

“A leader! You’re a sham, Duchess! You can’t lead your way out of a pillowcase! Your knee-jerk need to flex muscle is what got you here! Right smack in the middle of trouble,” said Sabé calmly, smiling and blithely laughing as if she’d just offered Jori a compliment. “You think you know what’s good for the people? Force, they’re all walking in darkness!” she said gesturing in a wide sweep with her bubbly and managing to keep it from sloshing out of the stemmed glass bowl. “How lovely were they to see the light! But they’ve accepted their blinders for so long, they’d shun the light, rise up in war for fear of it! What exactly are you leading your people toward, Jori Atreides? Hum? Don’t let’s pretend you give a damn about the people!”

“Count, Princess, Admiral...Colonel Yularen,” she raised her glass, “Here’s to choice!” She raised her glass high and then threw back the bubbly all in one go. “Ah!” she said touching a delicate finger to each corner of her lips, “I believe we’re done here, Colonel,” she said quietly, searching for a serving droid with a tray on which to place her glass and for an instant looking ill before she beamed another brilliant smile at the group.

---

“The man does speak.” Kallus’ remarked in Yularen’s earpiece.

Whether that was in relation to Captain Magnusson’s toast or the Lord Admiral Xavier opening his mouth for the first time this evening, it could be used for either one.

Yularen watched as the Duchess and the Queen sized each other up, smiling to himself wryly at their silver-tongued play of words as they tried to outwit and entrap the other.

---

“Colonel Yularen," said Sabé quietly, turning to him the least bit, “You are a gentleman. Please honor my request and take me from here, now."She placed her free hand at her waist as she spoke discreetly, a chill gathering over her skin.

"Of course." He said softly before looking to address the others. "I believe it is time for us to continue on, thank you for your time," a wiry smile on his face.. "I am sure I'll be seeing you all again later."

“I don’t think they like each other.” Kallus commented.

That was an understatement if ever there was one. There was nothing Yularen could say in response that won’t give away that one of his agents was observing the exchange.

TAG: TheAdmiral and WarmNyotaSweetAyesha

 

OCC: Again, thank you C_O for Yularen for this post..

IC: Grand Moff Wilhuff Tarkin,Colonel Wullf Yularen, Grand Admiral Balahai Savit, Ms. Arhinda Pryce, Governor of Lothal
Location: Senate Atrium, Coruscant

Clapping could be heard from behind Sabé and the Colonel, both of whom made a slight turn of their shoulders, Sabé giving a sidelong glance to catch sight of the person applauding.

“Colonel Yularen,” A commanding and cultivated voice cut through the chatter around them. “And...Captain Magnusson, eh...excuse me, Count Leijonhufvud och Magnusson af Gripsholm, Dutchess Atreides, Lord Admiral Xavier, Princess...and, of course, Sabé Amidala. Charming speeches-yes, charming speeches, all!”

Yularen turned and he smiled in greeting. "Governor Tarkin. Congratulations on you and your task forces’ victory at Kalee. I was just making introductions to her Majesty, Sabé Amidala II of the Naboo."

Offering a thin, bemused smile, Tarkin put a hand behind his back, offered a drink of bubbly to a tall and slender woman with piercing blue eyes and a bob of black hair at his side. She wore the same quasi-military uniform as Tarkin’s and a somewhat ingratiating smile of her own. She nodded her thanks and took the glass. Tarkin offered another to Sabé questioningly, “Some more “liquid courage,” Your Majesty....No? Very well.”

As he did so, another officer, this one, like Yularen, all in white. stepped up to join Tarkin and the Lady. The Grand Moff greeted the white clad officer with a nod. “Allow me, to introduce, Grand Admiral Balanhai Savit, and the newly appointed Governor of Lothal, Arhinda Pryce.” Tarkin introduced the group, including Lord Admiral Xavier and the Princess Atreides, Dennii Sunwalker.

Smiling slowly to Savit, Arhinda kept a neutral face, but she had to fight hard to keep from smirking. Tarkin had a knack for maneuvering people as if they were pieces in a game of Dejarik. "Grand Admiral." she said in greeting, her cultivated voice, aloof yet warm.

Savit nodded in return and then turned his attentions to the Duchess and said in his heavy and peculiarly local accent to the Union contingent, “Ah! Yes, the Naboo debacle! ‘Sunwalker’ and your Union man, the ex-Jedi, Eddard Something or other. What a bloody mess that?!” said Savit, under his breath.

The Grand Admiral’s piercing gaze turned from Jori to Sabé. The features of his smooth face gave a slow small smile to the Queen of Naboo. “Weeellll! That’s all sorted now, or will be, soon. Your Majesty, you’ve got the 7th fleet! I understand Grand Admiral Thrawn’s quite good at sorting out.” Grand Admiral Savit picked up a glass of bubbly himself and offered a silent toast to Sabé and took a sip. Tarkin raised his brows at Savit’s statement and noted Arhinda’s keen attention.

Sabé turned her swan-like neck and pursed her lips to look down for a moment before giving Savit a cursory noble obligation of a smile as the Grand Admiral went on to say, “I’ve a toast of my own before the orchestra plays my piece, so you’ll excuse me if I have to leave quickly.” He lifted his glass. “End of the long and expensive war. It’s well done and over and we can get down to brass tacks and stop throwing good resources after bad. Cheers!”

Savit swigged his bubbly and bowed. “You’ll excuse me, Grand Moff, Governor, Majesty, Your Grace, Your Highness,...Count, and Lord Admiral-oh,...and... I hope we meet again soon. I have some questions I’d like to ask, Admiral- Your Grace, I’d fire the son of a bantha who made your trip arrangements!...Well, enjoy your evening!” He said, with a salute. “Grand Moff, Governor.”

TAG: TheAdmiral and WarmNyotaSweetAyesha

 

~OOC~ Many special thanks to @pashatemur for this joint post

~IC~ Bail Organa, Riyo Chuchi, Regina Weiss-Hexa Mon Mothma, Ahsoka Tano , Leia Organa, Tia Organa
Location: Coruscant - Galactic Senate Building - Senate Atrium

It was hard to believe it had been years since they were all together. They all looked the same. Well, Bail now had a hint of grey developing in his hair. Riyo looked radiant. The young girl, she did not know… there was something special about her. Ahsoka sensed protectiveness from Bail. Ah, she was Bail’s daughter… but was she also Chuchi’s? Or was it the other lady that was with them? The woman’s face structure looked familiar, but Ahsoka didn’t remember who it was…

Mon Mothma found herself paying attention to her own facial expression as she came under Ahsoka’s gaze. Would she see through her disguise as Regina Weiss-Hexa. This was probably the height of hubris, sitting at a table in the center of Imperials and a former Jedi, who now seemed allied with Lord Vader! She nodded to Ahsoka and decided to go on the offensive. She leaned across Bail and offered her hand to the beautiful Togrutan.

“Hello! I think my friend, Senator Organa, is a bit surprised and tongue tied, or he’d have introduced us.” Bail returned Regina’s impish gaze with raised eyebrows. “I’m Regina Weiss-Hexa and you are by all accounts, another old friend of Bail and Riyo’s. Maybe we met back when, forgive me for not remembering, but I doubt it. You have quite an unforgetable and compelling presence. Very good to meet you.”

Leia, seeing she was taking a back seat in this scenario, sat up and stuck out her hand too. “Yes, and I’m Leia Organa, Papa,” and here, Leia gestured to Bail, “is an old friend of mine too. We go way back. It’s so nice to meet you, Ahsoka!” She smiled around the table as if to say, “Pretty good, right?!”

Unable to repress his laugh, Bail coughed as he took a drink, Ms. Weiss-Hexa patting him on the back.

Ahsoka flashed a beaming smile to Leia and reached out her hand to take Leia's proffered one. "A pleasure to meet you, your Highness."

"A pleasure, indeed!" confirmed Leia with swagger, conducting herself as she'd seen her father do on many occasions.

Bail found himself staring across the table and shook himself mentally. Ahsoka Tano! There she sat with Riyo, the two of them chatting and dazzling under the lights. It was unreal: the beaded crystals glinting in Riyo’s hair and the bejeweled pearl and silvery bands and headdress with which Ahsoka was adorned, as in some fairytale!

"I hope you are enjoying your time so far." Ahsoka's eyes remained on Leia's. There was a kindness and intelligence to them, despite the young princess’ age.

“Well,” Leia said, turning her slender neck, a sparkle in her eye and a dimpling smile growing as she gestured with one petite hand, “I was excited to be attending, of course, but the music and dancing are...truly a delight!” Here she leaned to Ahsoka and said quietly, “But the very best part is that I have met another girl here who is just my age and later I hope to meet her again. I don’t usually have time for play. I’m very busy, you know. How about you, Ms. Tano?”

"I'm glad to hear you are enjoying yourself, your Highness." Ahsoka's lips twitched and flashed a grin. She knew exactly what the young highness meant. "I suppose the feeling is mutual, the last few days have been a whirlwind of activity and I am still trying to catch up.”

Leia looked wonderingly to the tips of Ahsoka’s montrals and back to her luminous blue eyes. “You seem special and important. Papa and Senator Chuchi aren’t certain you are you! Are you you?” she asked, feeling she was making an important query that her elders felt too shy about asking.

“Leia!” said Bail quietly in surprise, then offered apologetically to Ahsoka, “Ah...Leia is very ...um direct and impatient!”

Ahsoka considered Leia’s question. "I am still me, though not the same me from several years ago. I have grown and with the evolving circumstances... we all have changed, while the fundamentals of who we are are still there."

Ahsoka glanced at Regina, Bail and Riyo. She could sense their curiosity, then returned her gaze back to Leia

"Since we last met, I've been... keeping a low profile, surviving from place to place. Last week I was a mechanic, I didn't imagine that I'd be here today, on Coruscant, let alone, made a Commissar." She reflected, then smiled to herself and shrugged, adding, "Evolving circumstances"

"So, just what brought you to Coruscant?" asked Bail, taking the opportunity. He looked pointedly at Ahsoka. "It's not exactly a safe place for someone of your...background."

"I was... forced off Rendili and found myself at a crossroads. I saw the news of what happened here, to this building. It was a shock and I decided that I cannot remain on the outskirts any longer. I felt that I can do more good here. I know that I can." She held his gaze, some of her concern came through. Corner of her lip twitched. "I was worried for you all but I held onto hope."

"Not if you're dead, you can't" blurted Bail. Everyone sat in silence. It was very awkward. Leia looked at her father wide-eyed

Ahsoka’s mouth hung open in disbelief. "That's a risk I've been living ever since the start of the war." The muscles about her eyes tightened. She held her head a fraction higher. "It's my choice to risk what little left I have to be here. Now is the opportunity for me to act, otherwise my skills, what I can do, would fade to obscurity.”

Mon folded her hands in her lap and looked up with a soft smile. "I think that Senator Organa is simply expressing frustration over the event of which you just spoke. It was very violent and a number of innocent people lost their lives. With the government and the throne in transition...well, but the war is over. That's a good thing, whatever one’s perspective. Let's celebrate, shall we?"

Leia put her hand over her father's hand, recognizing he was out of sorts, and then looked up to Riyo.


Riyo saw the corner of Ahsoka's lip droop, she didn't need to read her mind to know how she was feeling. She caught Leia's eye and looked to Bail ."I concur. We’ve a good reason to celebrate the end of the conflict and the road to a peaceful recovery."

Bail put up a hand and spoke up immediately as Riyo finished, "Wait, wait...I'm...sorry Ahsoka. Forgive my outburst. It's no excuse, but things have been a bit...rough lately with the Senate in danger of being disbanded-still, no excuse for my lack of tact. I would like to talk with you further, soon. If you can make the time. Senator Chuchi and I both would like to have a reunion, right?" he said, turning to Riyo.

Ahsoka blinked, thinking over how to best respond. "It has been trying times..."

Riyo smiled to Bail and looked to Ahsoka. She placed her hand gently on the Togruta's "It would be wonderful if you are free to do so."

Ahsoka inclined her head. "I..." a smile returning to her face and she nodded. "...it would be a pleasure to do so."

Bail smiled reservedly, but he put on a good face on and caressed Leia's head to reassure her. "Good! We'll arrange a time, but let's celebrate as Ms. Weiss-Hexa suggests." He raised a glass.

Ahsoka frowned and looked about the table for a glass.

Recognising the predicament, Riyo raised her hand and a waiter came moments later. Leaning to the human waiter, she whispered and with a bow of acknowledgement, he dashed off.

"I've ordered you a drink." Riyo said to her, then looked to Bail who smirked and glanced sheepishly around the table to a perimeter of expectant faces, his glass poised in mid-air.

"This seems to be a common theme with me...." he said and he chuckled diplomatically. "All dressed up and ready to roar....either too late or over early!"

Nodding and pursing her lips, Regina/Mon Mothma said, "True, true!"

"Ouch! The truth hurts!" said Bail jokingly.

"Thank you." Ahsoka whispered to Riyo, then smiled to Bail. "I suppose we've all been caught in a whirlwind." She glanced over her shoulder for the waiter, nothing yet. "We are all just trying to catch up."

"Help me out, Riyo!" said Bail in mock plead.

Leia pertly plucked the glass from her father's hand. "There!" she said with satisfaction,

Mon clapped at the simplicity with which the child solved Bail’s predicament.

Riyo raised her glass and tilted the rim a fraction as a small salute. "It shouldn't be long."

Placing a hand on Leia’s shoulder, Bail looked across to the newly appointed Commissar and smiled, "You're right Ahsoka, we've all been caught up in this damned war for so long-"

"BAIL!" exclaimed Tia chidingly, "Language!"

"Oh, Auntie! Don't worry! He says that word all the time," said Leia, hugging her father.

"LEIA!" exclaimed Tia, flustered, while Regina/Mon Mothma tried unsuccessfully to muffle a hearty laugh behind her hand.

Amid peels of laughter, the waiter returned with a tray of fresh glasses and offered them around the table. Ahsoka politely took one.

"What word was that?" asked Ahsoka, puzzled, not having heard what could have incited such a disapproval from Bail’s sister.

"Damn!" replied Leia, innocently.

"LEIA!" Poor Tia looked as if she was taken by a wave of heat, tears of laughter running down her face, her sisters hushing Leia.

Bail, too, began to shush the table and turned bright red, but recovered quickly and hugged Leia to his side, while taking up his glass again.

Ahsoka and Riyo both chuckled.

"That is nothing compared to..." Ahsoka was going to go in depth, but Riyo caught her eye and discouraged further explanation. Ahsoka nodded in acknowledgement. "...compared to... others. Places and circumstances?"

Bail lifted his glass and spoke over the laughter, "Alright! Alright! A toast amongst friends, old and new, and foes alike. "With war's end, the real push begins!"

Glasses rose and the sound of clinking bubbly bowls erupted from the table like a box of bottles riding around in an old service vehicle. This was a new experience for Ahsoka, who watched as everyone took a sip and she tentatively followed suit, taking a tiny slurp of a sip herself.

The taste was... not quite what she expected. It fizzed and tickled, the bubbles swelling and filling her mouth. Trying to seal her mouth with her hand, Ahsoka crinkled her nose and uncontrollably shuddered and pulled a face, trying to swallow the bitter bubbles and spraying the table instead.

"I'm ahh...that's ..." she held back making a noise and fought to compose her expression. "...acquired... taste." Having never tasted bubbly before, she was unprepared for the sparkly sweet, yet sour taste. She coughed out an apology as both Bail and Riyo patted her back.

Riyo, understandingly nodded and began to pat dry the silk folds of Ahsoka’s diaphanous dress.

Bail chuckled and tried soothing her. “Don’t worry about it.”

With a shiver and an involuntary shake of her head, the Togruta then looked up to the dark-haired Senator and nodded, but the taste was on her tongue. With a rapid smack of her lips and rub of her tongue against them, she pursed her lips closed, her eyes searching for something to counteract the aftertaste.

Leia offered first a napkin and then a glass of water, telling Ahsoka how she agreed, “It’s awful!”

Bail looked down at Leia and it was his turn to be surprised. “When did you drink bubbly?”

Leia shrugged and explained how she snuck a sip at the last dinner party they’d held in the Palace on Alderaan. She turned and lifted a glass of water to Ahsoka, which the Commissar accepted graciously.

Bail softened and made a polite joke about this being a night of revelations. “Please, everyone, let’s sit and enjoy dinner.” Droid and flesh wait staff now flooded the Atrium and spread throughout to offer platters of various delicacies to the guests.

Ahsoka turned and craned her neck to see what the food on the platters was like, as the wait staff worked their way from the edges of the crowd. What a spread! Her stomach groaned as she leaned a shoulder in to draw in a subtle whiff of the enticing aromas. She’d forgotten, in all the happenings, just how hungry she was. A tap on her opposite shoulder caused her to gasp, she turned her head and looked up as a voice asked:

"Guess who?"

TAG: To be continued...

 

OCC: Many thanks to Corellian_Outrider and Adalia-Durron for their contributions to this post and for giving me the chance to work with them.

~IC~ Bail Organa, Riyo Chuchi, Regina Weiss-Hexa Mon Mothma, Ahsoka Tano, Leia Organa, Tia, Celly, or Rouge Organa, Zaa Vashee, Jayden,

Location: Coruscant - Galactic Senate Building - Senate Atrium

The Togruta almost jumped out of her seat as she turned and looked up. "Zaa?!"

"Ahsoka!" Zaa said, sounding pleased with herself. "I knew it was you." She noticed the others at the table were looking at them with some puzzlement. Zaa looked to Jayden. "Do we introduce ourselves or do they?"

Ahsoka composed her surprise and stood up. "I can help..." She whispered to Zaa and... she arched her brow to the other. "My name is Ahsoka..."

He leaned in to the woman. "Jayden." he responded simply not wanting to state his title. He hated it.

"A pleasure to meet you, Jayden." Ahsoka smiled to the man. She then looked at Zaa, searching her face for any hint of her agenda. It felt like looking at her own reflection and the genuine emotions that Ahsoka picked up from Zaa were that she was calming and indeed Zaa was pleased to see her. She sucked in her bottom lip and looked to the others at the table. "Senator-no-Ms. Weiss-Hexa... Senator Prince Organa, Princess Leia Organa, Senator Chuchi..." she paused at the other ladies near Bail who must be family. "Ladies Organa? I'm sorry, I don't know your names. Ah, may I present Zaa, Queen of Shili... and... Jayden." Ahsoka looked to Jayden and arched a brow as a query that she got it right.

Jayden gave a nod, revealing no more.

“Your Majesty, Mr. Jayden,” said Bail, setting a napkin down as he rose from his seat and bowed, “Commissar Tano very graciously and ...apply named the Ladies Organa. They are my sisters,” he said gesturing to each, “Tia, Rouge, and Celly,” all of whom rose and curtsied in place as they were introduced. “So-How do-Welcome-pleased to-you do?!-meet you!-Your Majesty! they all said at once.

Bail smiled wryly and then reintroduced Leia as his daughter, prompting a big smile from the little princess and a respectful curtsy that saw her disappear below the table before bobbing back up to climb back onto her seat. “...and Ms. Regina Weiss-Hexa is a business associate and old friend of mine,” he said before introducing two other Senators and their aides with whom he’d worked on various committees over the years. Mon Mothma, the Senators and their aides all greeted Jayden and the Queen of Shili warmly.

”Please, if you are free, sit and dine with us!” he continued, politely, noting the warm manner in which Zaa Vashee and Ahsoka had greeted one another.

Jayden carefully pulled a chair out for Zaa. “We’d like that I think.” He inclined his head to her. “Please?” he offered, indicating the seat.

"Thank you" Zaa brushed the material of her gown with a hand and then graciously sat down on the seat Jayden had arranged for her. "We certainly would."

Attending their newly introduced guests, all at the table sat after the Queen and Mr. Jayden, Leia, studying the strange resemblance between Zaa Vashee and Ahsoka Tano,trying very hard not to look as though she stared.

Mon Mothma noted the princess’ struggle with hidden amusement, though she had to admit that it was hard not to stare. “So,” said Mon, addressing no one and everyone, “Quite a turnout, this evening. I’m seeing so many new people.”

The Ladies Ogana all agreed demurely, nodding at once.

“Interesting to see how many troubled themselves to come and see the spectacle and pomp of this ...the new Imperial family. Would that such interest had been expressed at other times of impending change!” continued Mon/Regina softly, looking to Bail, who raised a brow.

Jayden sat beside Zaa and glanced around the table, the fact that his wife wasn’t at this table was a blessing. These were somewhat powerful people, but none particularly impressed him. He honestly had no love for politics, he was more of a free spirit.

Riyo had leaned to Bail and whispered. "Don't they look alike?" As she watched the two Togruta sit down next to each other, along with the man named Jayden. Bail conceded that Riyo was correct. In fact, the two Togrutan’s could easily be mistaken for one another, with the exception of a few subtle differences, mostly of posture and expression.

"Welcome to Coruscant, your Majesty." Riyo addressed Zaa. "This is a rare opportunity to finally meet you. I want to say that I've always admired the way you've kept your home buoyant in these tumultuous times."

Zaa regarded the Pantoran, her gaze studied Riyo's amber eyes before inclining her head. "That is kind of you to say so, Senator Chuuchi." There was a slight smile. "I cannot take all the credit but we all do our best. And thank you for the welcome. We are at the turning point in history, I wouldn't miss it."

"How about you, Jayden?" Ahsoka curiously tilted her head and leaned to see him. "How are you finding this evening?"

He turned to the woman, noting her similarities to Zaa and wondering if they were related. "Amusing? Yes, I find the evening amusing." He said with a warm smile. "And intriguing. You?"

Amusing? That was something new to describe the evening. "I suppose I could say that it has been..." Ahsoka paused to consider the right word. "...an experience." She crinkled her nose and flashed a smile. "A tad overwhelming. Meeting fresh faces and familiar. Not to mention the spotlight. The food is nice, I did sneak-uh.. tried some of the appetisers earlier and they were quite nice. Did you get to try anything?"

"Not as yet, and I have to say I am famished having flown her in my starfighter." Jayden stated. "I am looking forward to a good meal."

Ahsoka's eyes lit up. "You have a Starfighter? What class do you fly?" She looked past Jayden to the wait staff's progress with bringing the platters of delicacies to the tables. "It should not be too long before we can eat, hopefully it is just as good or better."

“S-100 – Stinger Class. You know about Fighters?” he asked, interested in the woman’s knowledge as he followed her gaze. “I’m patient. Tell me, do you fly?”

"The S-100...." Ahsoka said softly to herself. "Not bad, that's definitely a vintage ship. Is it a replica or a restoration?" She paused. "I meant to answer; yes, I do know about ships. Been patching them up for some time and I do fly..."

Zaa gave Ahsoka a curious glance.

"...when given a chance." Ahsoka softly finished.

Both Bail and Mon/Regina looked curiously to Ahsoka at her admission.

"It's a restoration, I did it myself. She's my pride and joy. You don't get much of a chance then?" he was curious. "What stops you?" he asked.

Her lip pouted a fraction. "In a word, circumstances."

Jayden snorted softly. "Circumstances give me cause to fly. My wife chose to leave me behind for this event, but I chose to attend."

“Oh, dear,” said Celly, not quite under her breath and immediately regretting it as Rouge nudged her foot under the table.

“Ah, your wife? We have enough seats available if you’d like to invite her,” said Bail, quickly assessing the situation and offering the opportunity, should Jayden need to amend his current status as paying court to a royal dignitary and not his wife.

Jayden gave a look of almost discomfort. "Thank you, but no. I spend enough time with her on Bakura, and frankly that's more than enough for one lifetime." He realised immediately he sounded bitter so decided to not say anymore.

“Hum!” said Mon, taking note of Mr. Jayden's revealing his home. Pursing her lips and looked around to the wait staff making their way through the large Atrium, trays and floating trolleys laden with delicacies and edible art. “I’m so hungry, I could eat my words.”


TAG: @Adalia-Durron, @Corellian_Outrider, and @pashatemur

 

IC: Duchess Jori Atreides-Corrion, Princess Dennii/Drakoniss Sunwalker-Atreides, Lord Admiral James Xavier
Location: Senate Atrium, Coruscant

Anger flared inside Jori’s soul. Anger so brilliant that almost blinded her. Her face remained friendly and pleasant but her feelings were in a turmoil. Then, thankfully, a calming thought poured some needed water and reduced the intensity. ‘She actually lost face, I managed to strike a nerve.’ some amusement creeped in. Jori hated idealists, they were annoying, self-important fools who liked to meddle with other people’s lives and tell them what to do. As if their ways are superior, looking down on the ones who did not agree with them or did things differently. The sheer kriffing hubris!

The Emperor and Empress seemed to an odd mix. Jori could not yet assess them. They surely showed certain idealist traits, but given Lord Vader’s past it was still unclear. Jori needed to spend more time with them, to learn more about them. Hopefully she would not be disappointed.

The Queen showed herself to be such an idealist. Though she was in the most troublesome category - idealists with power. That made her potentially dangerous. Jori needed to find an angle to play her. Also needed to find a way not to let her emotions get a hold on her and cloud her judgement. She needed to find a way to use her opponent’s weight against her. Jori almost smiled at the thought and gave a sidelong glance at the Lord Admiral. He seemed stiff, probably furious too, which was fine. Uncle James, as Dennii called him, was a good soldier and would not speak out of turn.

Jori did not have a military mind, but she had learned a thing or two from the good old Lord Admiral. A lot of people thought of him as stiff, unimaginative, just the way he liked to present himself. Of course he was not a capable politician, a trait she liked as it made him more honest and open, but was an excellent strategist. He had taught her how to analyse the enemy, use their strengths and weaknesses against them. Showed her that the road to victory is not a straight one, that you have to make a step left, a couple back and so on. He had taught her to observe and assess the situation before making a move.

She was about to make a retort involving Palpatine, to remind the Queen that Naboo was his birthplace. If she was the idealist that she presented herself to be she must resent the fact. Naboo was also the homeworld of another narrow minded individual Padme Amidala, whose speeches in the Senate could make you cringe from the things the woman spouted. ‘Calm down...’ the duchess reminded herself. She focused on the Colonel escorting the Queen. He did not seem to be a friend, or a companion, he did not look like a bodyguard. Something that she had to learn more about. Something that could be useful…

They were interrupted by another man. It was Governor Tarkin. Him, him she could respect. She had read the files on the man. He rose to power with Palpatine’s help. It would be interesting how he felt towards the new Emperor. Eriadu was a practical world, she took note to look for a way to connect with them. Of course he did not seem pleasant, but that was fine with her. Politics was not a place for niceties, despite the appearances.

For there was no love lost between the Queen and Tarkin. An idea started to form in her mind. Something to be explored later. Maybe there could be a way to maneuver those two towards a collision course. That could prove beneficial. It would force the Emperor to act as well, so she had to be very careful and cover her tracks. He would have to choose between the two. If he sides with Tarkin, then Sabe could cause problems. If he sides with the Queen, then Tarkin could stir some trouble. But that was a potential course of action. She needed to learn the lay of the land before committing to anything.

Before Jori could say anything, another person was introduced. A Grand Admiral. She gave a looked for a moment at the Lord Admiral. The duchess stifled a smile to see him assessing the man. Men…

“Yes, it is regrettable what happened. Hopefully it will be resolved amicably.” she replied to the Grand Admiral, she took a mental note of his accent.

Jori, Dennii and Xavier rose their glasses to the toast given by Savit, then he bid his farewell. Another meeting could prove interesting. The man seemed to have a practical mind, a trait she liked.

“Governor Tarkin, let me congratulate you with the victory over the Separatists. Hopefully now the Galaxy can recover and move forward to a more… prosperous future.” she gave a warm smile.

TAG: @pashatemur @Corellian_Outrider @WarmNyota_SweetAyesha

 

~OOC~ Special thanks to @Adalia-Durron and @pashatemur for this joint post.

~IC~ Bail Organa, Riyo Chuchi, Regina Weiss-Hexa Mon Mothma, Ahsoka Tano, Leia Organa, Tia Organa Zaa Vashee, Jayden,
Location: Coruscant - Galactic Senate Building - Senate Atrium

Leia took this exchange as opportunity to lean to Ahsoka and ask in a whisper, “Are you and Her Majesty sisters?”

Ahsoka arched her brow a fraction when Jayden mentioned his wife. She wanted to counter that she was not so fortunate to own a craft of her own though Bail got there before her. Hearing the young Princess' whisper, Ahsoka instinctively leaned close to her. "The truth is I don't actually know."

“I have a twin, though I’m not sure either!” Leia said somberly. “It’s kind of funny feeling.” She added, wrinkling her nose in frustration and looking very serious.

"A twin?" Ahsoka asked softly, there was something curious about what the Princess said, the way she carried herself as she spoke. "You share a connection with another?"

Leia shrugged. She'd never been confronted with the idea expressed aloud. "I...think so. We talk to one another, sometimes, but it's not very clear." Something about the beautiful Togruta seemed...”safe” and “special” to Leia. The noise of the table and the Atrium seemed to echo as if it was outside of a sphere she shared with Ahsoka. This “connection” as Ahsoka called it, had been something Leia accepted, but it was perplexing, as well.

Ahsoka nodded. She wanted to speak more with Leia regarding what Leia had just confided to her, though the reception venue itself might not be the best time and place. She did not want to endanger the Princess.

“If you are interested, we could discuss this in a more private setting” Ahsoka offered to Leia.

Leia folded her hands in her lap and sat up, chancing a quick glance to her father. He, however, seemed engrossed in something going on amongst the grown ups. She hadn't a clue as to what it was that took his interest, but she knew it was good he was so absorbed. Having attended so many affairs in the embassy and at the Palace, Leia possessed a poise that often others of her station did not acquire till much later as young adults. She looked back to Ahsoka, almost unsure about her having admitted to her secret, a secret Leia had shared with no one else and now, the lady of mystery asked her a very grown up question! Leia looked from across Riyo’s lap, almost cuddling up to the Senator. Looking to Ahsoka with her big brown eyes, she had to agree that this ‘thing’ she’d revealed had always seemed ‘off-limits.’ After all, her father had forbidden her to do ‘those things,’ he called ‘tricks,’ and speaking to her ‘twin’ fell into the ‘tricks’ category. She nodded in answer to Ahsoka’s query and smiled briefly.

Riyo had observed Ahsoka and Leia's exchange and smiled while turning her attention to Zaa of Shili, who seemed to have gone silent in the awkward proceedings, and asked the Queen about her rare presence on Coruscant.

"This is my third time on Coruscant. The skyline changes each time." Zaa answered as she glanced to Ahsoka and the Princess and back to Riyo, who was in between the two.

"There are always developments in the ‘ecumenopolis that never sleeps.’" Riyo inclined her head.

A gong rang out in the chamber, an indication that a meal is being served and for others to make their way to the tables.

The Pantoran placed her hand on Ahsoka's shoulder since the Togruta was leaning more into her to speak with Leia. "What are you two conspiring?" Riyo asked curiously.

"Cakes." Ahsoka impishly smiled as she sat up. She looked to Leia and back to Riyo.

Riyo looked to Zaa, who smiled at Ahsoka's answer, then back to Ahsoka. "Of course you were." Riyo said bemused. Her gaze shifted as the wait staff approached their table.

“I’ve been so busy lately, I don’t really have the opportunity to keep up with the news, let alone the holo dramas...!” said Mon, changing the subject and looking with understanding to Celly and her sisters. “Did anyone follow that news story about military maneuvers in the old industrial zone?”

”Yes, I actually read a military notice on the incident and watched a report by that HNN blowhar...news journalist, Hgubmil. Remind me to fill you in Regina.” Bail had been listening, his dark eyes taking in the group around the filling table.

He wondered what Leia and Ahsoka had been talking about and laughed at Ahsoka’s answer to Riyo’s query.

Another Senator had joined them. Bail nodded in greeting, but the conversations around the table were ‘flying’ and he didn’t wish to interrupt, but the gong signalled dinner. Raising his hands, he smiled at his guests and said "Ah…hem… Yes, well, it looks like dinner is arriving. I trust we all came hungry!"

“So it is!” said Tia, sympathetically and adding, “Thank goodness! It feels like a decade since I’ve eaten last,” her stomach growling.

Rouge chimed in as plates were set before them and trays of various foods distributed about the table while still others were being offered around for selection, “I bet you’re hungry, having just flown in, Mr. Jayden. Don’t be shy! Not any of you! Dig in!”

TAG: @Adalia-Durron, @pashatemur, @WarmNyota_SweetAyesha

~OOC~ The next stage of the reception will take place in a moment. The gong indicates for everyone to make their way to the tables for the meal while an award ceremony takes place.

 

IC: Rahara Varik

Rahara kept a close eye on the minglers and the mini-gatherings. She heard the gong and headed towards the table where the Senator from Alderaan and other Senators were gathered.

"A magnificent dance spectacle," she assayed by way of greeting, "The meal to come will be superlative to follow that. May I join you?"

Tag, any at the table

 

~OOC~ Special thanks to @pashatemur for providing the Organas for this post.

~IC~ Ahsoka Tano, Zaa Vashee, Riyo Chuchi + Bail Organa , Leia Organa, Tia Organa
Location: Coruscant - Galactic Senate Building - Senate Atrium

Ahsoka looked at the woman who had approached their table. Her eyes glanced to the others, wondering who she was addressing before Ahsoka felt Zaa’s elbow to her side.

“She is giving you a complement.” Zaa whispered.

“Oh…” Ahsoka whispered. Her cheeks warmed at the realisation and she sat a bit more taller in her seat as she looked to the eyes of the young woman. “Thank you, that is most kind of you.” She said graciously as she inclined her head then glanced at the others at the table. “It’s alright by me…” there were a few nods in agreement.

Senator Organa, who rose and said, “Of course, please,” and gestured to Ahsoka ceding her the right to offer a place at the table.

Ahsoka smiled at his gesture, her eyes returned to the newcomer. “... you are more than welcome to take a seat.”

“Yes, Yes, do, Goodness, certainly, please have a seat,” said the Ladies Organa, while Leia bit her lips to try not to laugh at the very odd moment and stared at the newcomer not knowing what to expect.

Riyo pursed her lips as her warm amber eyes assessed the table and the newcomer. “Welcome, I am Riyo Chuchi,” She introduced herself, then introduced the others at the table, starting with Ahsoka to her left, then Zaa Vashee of Shili, Jayden of Bakura… then to her right was Princess Leia and her father, Bail Organa of Alderaan, Lady Regina Weiss-Hexa, the three sisters of House Organa… three other senators and their aides.

“Thank you, Senator Chuchi.” said Bail, addressing the new arrival at the table.. “So, now we’re all introduced, how do we address you? Tell us about yourself.”

TAG: @WarmNyota_SweetAyesha, @Adalia-Durron, @pashatemur

 

IC: Rahara Varik, Coruscant

Rahara smiled at the genuinely warm reception. One of the first rules of Intel training was to divulge enough of the truth without giving away too much and not tripping yourself up with elaborate stories you might forget in a pinch.

"I'm Ms. Varik from Kuat. I just arrived and am settling in to a new job, thanks to the most intriguing, recent shift in Galactic government."

TAG: @Corellian_Outrider, @Adalia-Durron, @pashatemur

 

~IC~ Bail Organa, Regina Weiss-Hexa Mon Mothma
Location: Coruscant - Galactic Senate Building - Senate Atrium


Bail tilted his head, brows furrowed as he thought and then he smiled, pointing and tapping his finger on the table lightly, "Varik...any relation to ... Varik...Merle Varik, on staff with the Senator for Kuat's office? What is he...liaison with the Kuat shipbuilders?"

Mon Mothma leaned in the least bit at the mention of Kuat. She looked to Bail and then to Ms. Varik. Her interest peaked, she was remembering the most recent reports to cross her desk. Hadn't there been some Imperial clash within the last few days? The Kuati were mentioned, but there was no further information regarding their connection to the incident. There'd been an engagement with pirates and all indications pointed to an investigation headed by the Admiralty's 7th fleet.

It had to be some large event for the information to sit high in the Alliance's surveillance.

Careful to keep a casual stance, Mon, or rather Regina Weiss-Hexa smiled and gave her attention to Ms. Varik. Was this purposeful, this seeming chance encounter?

This could either be evidence the Empire was on to either her, Bail, or both, or that the Kuati and these Pirates were, but to what end? Resistance cells trying to make contact? She fought a shiver of concern. After all, hadn't that Imperial seemed to have made her acquaintance rather soon after she arrived tonight, Jan di Toli? She hadn't heard from Grand Master Shuri, either! Surely, Emi was safe and had met with Captain Rendar. Both Emi and Rendar were quite capable, she told herself. Calm, Mon!

However, things seemed to be coinciding rather easily. In a flash, she recalled that information had come to the Alliance just before she'd departed Yavin. She'd left so quickly, in fact, before either Emi-to Shuri or General Darkeyes and his battle group, once word of the War's end and the supposed death of the Emperor was rumored. The last she'd read, that aggressive resistance cell led by the man named “Kota” was operating somewhere ...but that thread had not continued. The source had gone silent, the last transmission location-Naboo Sector!

Taking up her glass of bubbly, Mon turned it back and forth, her elbow resting on the table in a casual stance of “listening.” ...Mid-rim, that was it, the Obligon Nebula...

TAG: @WarmNyota_SweetAyesha

 

IC: Rahara Varik, Coruscant

"He's my uncle," Rahara answered, "On the staff with the Kuati senator. He's the one who put me onto this position and provided one of my references."

She noticed the sharp attention of Regina Weiss-Hexa and gave an internal shrug. This reception was turning out to be a time for auspicious meetings, and she'd keep her eyes and ears open for any suspicious activity and undertones, but so far, everything at the Organa table seemed to be warm and affable.

 

OCC: Another fine mess you’ve gotten us into, C_O! I kid! Thank you, C_O, your contributions are greatly appreciated.

IC: Grand Master Emi-to Shuri, Jenifer
LOCATION: the Old Marais Market District Station, Coruscant

Her stomach growling audibly, the one called ‘Jenifer’ reached into her jacket and half pulled her hand out, revealing a comlink, matching the one Dash had given Emi earlier. “Dinner would be lovely about now,” she murmured. Looking back toward the platform that was quickly disappearing from sight, “I should give Da-our mutual friend some time to wrap up business and then. Let him know where I can meet up with him.”

The tram lurched as it prepared to depart, heading towards the old “Temple District” or “The New People’s Palace” as the line had been renamed. However, the Grand Master mused wryly that the riders seemed to continue to use the old designation. Master Shuri peered out of the window as the tram engaged and began to glide from the platform. The satchel of spice remained caught in the closed doors, pulling the strap around Emi's arm tight up against the closure where she stood elbow leaning on an upper hand rail at the side of the entry, smiling at ‘Jen’ as she spoke..

"What a day, huh?" said the Jedi, tossing the query to Jenifer, shaking her head. "The traffic hung me up for three hours at least!" It was still important to shake any suspicion that Emi had been recently sought out by the “law” not to mention that she carried an entire satchel full of contraband spice.

‘Jen’ smiled."Is that usual for this world?" She glanced out the window just as the gaps in the buildings were wide enough to see more of the skyline. It was somewhat familiar, yet completely new.

Emi laughed. "Always!-You mentioned dinner," she started and looked around, peering out of the windows as tower after tower seemed to blur past. This was an unknown and foreign place for 'Jen.' Though clearly resourceful and able to watch after herself, she had no idea where she had gotten or where she might signal Dash to meet up with her. "If you like, I know a place, where we might stop for a bite," she offered the fair-headed young woman. Emi scanned the car in which they were traveling and she could sense little interest in either 'Jen' or herself, but it was best to continue vigilance. “It’s just a lunch counter-decent fare-but we’d need to get off at the next stop.”

“That sounds fine by me.” ‘Jen’ nodded. “Leebo can always direct us or Dash if or when the time comes.”

Emi looked ahead as the next platform came into view. She braced. Fortunately, the traffic had died down and there was the regular crowd milling and waiting on the windy expanse of the duracrete gangways either side of the two magnetic tracks.

The Jedi looked back at 'Jen' and beckoned her to come closer as the tram came near it’s stop, the couplings compressing as the hydraulics system buffered the friction between the linked cars with a slow squeal. Falling into Emi-to, the force of 'Jen' spilling towards the Grand Master thrusted them both out onto the platform as the doors opened, with no time for anyone to note the satchel having been caught in the door!.

Several riders helped to hand both to their feet, amid “Careful there!” and “Are you alright?” and “Thank you, yes!”

Emi-to hooked her arm in 'Jen’s' and asked confidentially, “All good?”

“All good.” 'Jen' repeated and flashed a smile. “Lead the way!”

“Let’s go, then!” said Master Shuri with a smile. The noise of the evening traffic and the flickering lights were all quite different from the night time jungle of her lunar home and for a fleeting moment, Emi felt a pang, Torian’s voice and a vision of him and little Hill in the General’s arms in her mind. She caught her reflection in a pane of transparsteel as she and 'Jen' walked off the platform and to the lifts. She needed to be present and aware and all she dared allow for the time being was to wonder, Where are you, Torian? Then, she reached out to him, searching and murmuring, “Force! Bring him home to our hearts!



TAG: Torian Darkeyes - @Ominous, ‘Jenifer’ - @Corellian_Outrider

 

~IC~ Colonel Whullf Yularen
Location: Coruscant - Galactic Senate Building - Senate Atrium

Yularen regarded the Queen of Naboo and the Duchess of the Union. He noted how the two leaders had addressed each other and their attitudes-

The gong rang out in the chamber.

Colonel Yularen gave a wiry smile and politely inclined his head as a farewell to the Grand Moff to excuse himself while the Duchess captured Tarkin’s attention.
He looked to Sabé. “This way, my dear.”

He led her to the tables. He cast a slow gaze across, assessing which ones would deem ‘less risky’ to seat the Queen of Naboo. Definitely not the one where Senator Organa and guests were placed.

TAG: Sabé Amidala II, Queen of Naboo

---

~IC~ Riyo Chuchi - Senator of Pantora
Location: Coruscant - Galactic Senate Building - Senate Atrium - Seated at the table

Riyo noted how the invitation to sit was yet to be taken by Ms. Varik of Kuat as the young woman conversed with Bail about her family’s connection to the Kuati senator.

“That is kind and fortunate of your uncle to do so on your behalf. Please-” the Pantoran smiled and gestured to one of the empty seats at the table. “I’m sure you will be more comfortable sitting down. How are you settling in on Coruscant?”


TAG: Ms. Varik

---

~IC~Ahsoka Tano, Zaa Vashee - Queen of Shili
Location: Galactic Senate Building- Senate Atrium - Seated to Chuchi’s left

Ahsoka thanked the wait staff as a plate was placed before her. She then felt Zaa lean close and so she, in turn, leaned to close the gap between them. “Hmmm?”

“You look well.” Zaa whispered.

Ahsoka pursed her lips and nodded. “Thank you.” She whispered back. “You do too.”

Zaa smiled and thanked her, though her smile fell a fraction. “Where did you go?”

Ahsoka glanced downward. “I travelled, kept a low profile to survive.”

At the corner of her eye, Ahsoka saw Zaa nod gently then glanced to Jayden before turning sharply back to her as though Zaa remembered something to say. “Nachuto is here.”

Ahsoka’s expression froze and took a deep breath before gently nodding in acknowledgement. “Thank you for letting me know… And what of Jayden?” She queried the connection of the mysterious man from Bakura and the Queen of Shili.

“We just met but I am learning that he and you both have something in common…” Zaa gave a wistful smile.

Ahsoka nodded, she had an inkling of what Zaa had meant and flashed an assuring smile back to her. She then tilted her head a fraction to see Jayden’s face through a different perspective. Flying was the man’s ‘escape’, his sanctuary.

“So… you are a pilot, Jayden. Do you get to travel much? Have you seen many battles?” Ahsoka asked him.

TAG: Jayden, Prince of Bakura

---

~IC~ Lux Bontari - Senator of Onderon
Location: Coruscant - Galactic Senate Building - Senate Atrium

Everyone was slowly making their way to the tables. Lux noticed where the Queen of Shili and the Prince of Bakura had staked their positions… and from his perspective, much to the noticeable chagrin of the Togruta’s entourage. She reminded him so much of his togruta friend from the early years of the war and he could not help but smile… though only for a brief moment did he allow that pleasant, yet, bittersweet thought before he returned his focus to Kirstine.

“May I escort you to a table, your Majesty?”

TAG: Kirstine, Queen of Bakura

 

IC: Rahara Varik -- Coruscant

Rahara smiled at the Pantorin Senator and took the indicated seat.

"A worldspanning city is quite daunting, I'll admit, and I know to steer clear of the lower levels," she answered, "I am getting acquainted with the best eateries near my work and living quarters."

Tag: Senator Chuchi