Ask Naboo A Showcase of Pride

Atris Tharen

Character
Jedi Order
Rank
Jedi Knight

Character Profile
Link
OOC
llamallove
Joined
Jan 16, 2020
Messages
141
Reaction score
85
4af652b42ac77fd9b057cbb34fdcbb760385f9f5r1-1920-1080v2_hq.jpg


The City of Theed, the Planet of Naboo

High above the capital city of Theed, the sun was beginning to set. It was one of the brightest sunsets Atris had ever witnessed, and she found it hard to tear her eyes away from the colorful sky. As the sky darkened and the city began to cast long shadows, the Jedi realized just how well-lit Theed was. Fairy lights hung from nearly every building, draped across balconies and street lights. Atris leaned against the stone railing of the arching bridge and stared down into the canal below her. The combination of the setting sun and the city's lights created a vibrant reflection of color on the water's surface.

A mother duck swam below, her ducklings closely following her every move. Atris watched the ducks until they disappeared beneath the bridge, unable to stop the smile that spread across her lips.

Theed was beautiful. It was certainly a far cry from the city of Mos Eisley, where she had grown up. Since becoming a Jedi Knight, most of her time had been spent in the Outer-Rim. This was her first time visiting the Mid-Rim planet of Naboo, but she was already enamoured with the planet and happy the counsel had seen fit to send her on this mission.

Had she not been on a mission, Atris was positive she could get lost in this place, spend the whole day wandering every street and plain. Perhaps there would be an opportunity for that some other time, but tonight was not that time.

Daymar Rikil was a member of Naboo's Royal Advisory Council, a position that he was apt to remind you of. A pompous and arrogant man by all accounts, he was the sort of politician that Atris would probably avoid under any other circumstances.

Rikil was hosting a lavish gala within the halls of his mansion, scheduled to begin in just a few minutes. Outside of his mansion, Atris could already see guests beginning to arrive. The event was the talk of the town, its purpose to showcase Rikil's personal collection of treasures and priceless artifacts, a collection he had spent decades and lots of credits amassing.

Only one of these artifacts was of interest to the Jedi: an ornate necklace, reportedly an ancient Jedi relic of old. Rikil had, reluctantly, granted the Jedi permission to study the relic, but only after he had showcased it at his party.

Atris, along with another Jedi she had yet to meet, were both assigned to keep a watchful eye on the gala and make sure that everything transpired according to plan. The necklace was, after all, a "sitting duck" as it were. Rikil was confident that his private security would be able to handle the affair, but he had agreed to the Jedi's presence, nevertheless.

It was dark now. Atris' contact would be here any moment.


@ModernMarvel
 
Last edited:

Brienna Lanaamer

Character
Jedi Order
Rank
Jedi Knight

Character Profile
Link
OOC
ModernMarvel
Joined
Jan 6, 2020
Messages
362
Reaction score
205
"How do I look?" Bri turned her head, before the rest of her body, gesturing with her arms, in front of her astromech droid, NL-142. A solitary beep of adequacy was the droids reply, which elicited a sarcastic eye roll from the Jedi. "Thanks for that, really know how to make a girl feel special." She turned back to face the floor length mirror, and judged that her outfit was entirely adequate, to use the droid's previous description, for the event she was preparing to attend. The Naboo were known for their more extravagant style of formal dress, but that didn't really fit with the Jedi's own preferences, or indeed what she had in her closet. Instead, she had gone for a more elegant styled jumpsuit, which, while still formal, was slightly more understated. Plus, she wasn't exactly there to 'enjoy' the party.

One of Naboo's Royal Advisory Council, Daymar Rikil, had begrudgingly allowed the Jedi to study one of his artifacts, but only after it was on display for the upper crust of aristocracy to admire. Bri would be joined by one of her colleagues, a Knight named Atris Tharen, who was entirely unknown to her. Their purpose was twofold, study the artifact, yes, but also ensure that nothing disturbed the event. It was made clear they were not invited as security, but Bri fully understood what her role would be. Hence the bypassing of Jedi robes for a formal costume to better blend in.

The Jedi fastened a pair of earrings, and prepared to exit her ship. Never leaving without her lightsaber, she grabbed the metal hilt and fastened it on a holster attached to her left leg. Hidden from public view, but still easily accessible. She grabbed a clutch, containing datapad, to complete her functional fashion. "Don't wait up for me, NL!" the Jedi called with a laugh, walking down the ramp of her ship. The droid offered a few beeps as reply, but it was out of earshot for comprehension.

Twilight was descending on Theed, bathing the city in a magical golden light. Shadows danced around the ornate lampposts and hanging lights. Like nearly every other one of her past visits, it was an entirely pleasant evening. A cool but pleasant breeze softly waved through the Jedi's blonde hair as she walked the short distance from her ship to the Councilor's mansion and estate. The sound of her heels clacked with each step on the marble and stone flooring.

Rikil's estate was nestled within the city and as Bri approached, it was obviously a hot ticket for the evening, as crowds became more dense. She had messaged with her contact, Atris, before the evening, and had scheduled their meeting just outside of the mansion's grand entrance. Bri had been provided a background profile on her fellow Knight, and began to scan the crowds, looking around for the other Jedi.

I think that's her. Bri spotted a dark-haired young woman, standing on her own near a balcony terrace, near the front entrance. "Good evening," the Jedi introduced herself with a friendly smile, and almost a mocking formality. "Atris, I think?" she added, with a slight questioning tone.

@llamallove
 

Atris Tharen

Character
Jedi Order
Rank
Jedi Knight

Character Profile
Link
OOC
llamallove
Joined
Jan 16, 2020
Messages
141
Reaction score
85
Atris turned toward the sound of the woman's voice, her dark eyes settling on the woman who stood there dressed in an elegant jumpsuit, tall with long blonde hair. There was no doubt that this was Atris' contact, Brienna Lanaamer, a fellow Jedi Knight two or three years older than herself. She matched the description Atris had been given perfectly.

"Yes, I'm Atris Tharen," Atris replied immediately, offering the woman a friendly smile and her hand in introduction. "I'm looking forward to working with you."

Some time had passed since Atris had last worked alongside another Jedi, and she was excited at the prospect. Unsure of what to say next, she turned her attention toward the mansion of Daymar Rikil and their current objective, and said, "Rikil must have a lot of... friends." She used the word lightly. "I've lost count of how many people have gone in. It would have been helpful if he had agreed to send us the guest list as we requested so we could have vetted a few of them."

She cast Brienna an amused smile as they began to walk. "Oh, well. It should be an interesting night."

Or a rather long one, Atris thought to herself. It was not her custom to attend lavish gatherings such as this, nor to rub elbows with aristocracy. The last two years of her life had been spent working in med-clinics in the outer-rim and before that disaster zones and refugee camps. Not exactly the sort of places Daymar Rikil or his friends would regularly frequent. She would be out of her element tonight, but at least she wouldn't be alone. Brienna probably had more experience with matters such as these, and that was a comforting thought.

The gala was in full swing as the two Jedi entered the mansion. Rikil's home was elegant and expensive, yet tasteful. Glass chandeliers hung from the high ceiling above them, casting a warm glow over the whole room. Furniture and sofas had been placed to the side of the room to allow space for guests to dance and move about more freely. A band had set up in one corner of the large room, near the food, and their soft music set the tone of the event and gave privacy to conversation.

Atris spotted Rikil standing above them on the second floor, leaned against the railing as he mingled with two twi'leks. "There he is," she said to Brienna, though her companion had most likely already spotted him herself.

The two Jedi were supposed to make contact with the politician.



@ModernMarvel
 

Brienna Lanaamer

Character
Jedi Order
Rank
Jedi Knight

Character Profile
Link
OOC
ModernMarvel
Joined
Jan 6, 2020
Messages
362
Reaction score
205
"Me too. Great to meet you," Bri smiled, taking Atris' hand and shaking it firmly. "Shall we?" she added, gesturing with her left hand as they set off from the small terrace to join the throngs of people currently lining up to enter the estate. The Jedi turned her head as Atris offered a first attempt at commentary.

"Rikil must have a lot of... friends."

The note was obviously sarcastic, and Bri nodded with knowing glance and smile. Always appreciate sarcastic humor. "And I'm sure he knows each and every one of them personally," the blonde woman added, continuing the jest. She raised an eyebrow at the follow up, and then nodded again in agreement. "I wasn't completely surprised. I get the feeling our presence here is more of a 'toleration' than an 'invitation.' Let's hope its more interesting good, than interesting bad."

Checking in with the hostess at the front door, the two Jedi were promptly ushered inside. Bri wasn't exactly a novice to galas, or 'black tie' events, but they always tended to end rather tedious snobbery. Lots of one-upmanship and bragging. It wasn't lost on Bri that Rikil was hosting this event for that exact purpose. Other guests are going to put on their best fake faces and platitudes. Phony was a good way to describe it. Bri's attention was more interested in the intriguing outfits and dresses that the nobility of Naboo had chosen to wear.

To be fair, the main hall of Rikil's estate was impressive. Its opulence nearly elicited an eye roll from the Jedi. Richly colored marble flooring matched tall columns. Sparkling crystal chandeliers bathed the room in a golden glow. Treasures and artifacts in clear glass cases dotted the interior, with guests already fulfilling their purpose to admire and praise Rikil's taste. Light music accompanied the atmosphere, helping to cover the din of general conversations.

Bri's attention and observations were snapped back to the task at hand, as Atris pointed out their host for the evening, standing on the second floor, a balcony overlooking the lower. The blonde woman looked up and nodded. "Well, guess we should go introduce ourselves," she replied, almost with a sigh. Bri was unsure how they would be greeted. Their first virtual interactions didn't exactly paint someone who was pleased that they were there, or indeed that they would be allowed to have a personal and up close examination of one of the items in his collection.

@llamallove
 

Atris Tharen

Character
Jedi Order
Rank
Jedi Knight

Character Profile
Link
OOC
llamallove
Joined
Jan 16, 2020
Messages
141
Reaction score
85
A diverting smile played across Atris' face following Brienna's comment regarding their invitations. The Jedi Knight was right. Daymar Rikil had made it abundantly clear via prior communication that the two young women were not welcomed guests in his home and that he resented their presence.

Atris chewed on the inside of her cheek as she watched the politician with passing interest. "I suppose you're right. No sense in putting the inevitable introductions off." She turned toward Brienna and added wryly, "As much as we might want to."

Despite the spacious size of the ballroom, it was not large enough to accommodate the crowd of people that had gathered here tonight. Guests had begun spilling out into hallways, balconies, the second floor, and the garden.

Half of Theed must be here, Atris thought to herself as the two Jedi weaved their way through the crowded room and up the stairs. The large number of guests would only make their job that much more difficult. But perhaps, if the Jedi Knights were lucky, the evening would go off without a hitch, and the worst they would have to deal with was a few aristocrats with oversized egos.

Speaking of oversized egos... Daymar Rikil was still engaged in conversation with the two twi'leks, who upon closer inspection Atris pegged to be members of his private security team. The Royal Advisor did not acknowledge either of the women, and they were forced to stand and wait patiently. He was a large man, no more than fifty or sixty years old with silver hair and a well-groomed mustache to match. In rich, elegant robes of deep burgundy and turquoise, he couldn't have been more eye catching if he had tried, and he obviously was.

While they waited, Atris amused herself with the nearest glass case of artifacts until it became clear that he was not going to acknowledge their presence, no matter how long they stood there. She cleared her throat, a move that wasn't going to win her any points with him, but it did have its desired effect. They had his attention, for what it was worth. He looked between the two women in turn, clearly agitated as his cheeks turned red.

Now was not the time to shrink back, as much as she might have wanted to. "Good evening," Atris began, gesturing toward Brienna. "This is Jedi Knight Brienna Lanaamer, and I-"

"I know who you both are," he bristled, dismissing the two twi'leks with a simple wave of his hand. "I noticed the two of you the moment you walked in."

Atris looked over at Brienna, as if to ask, We don't really stick out that much... do we?

"I would have thought that the Jedi would trust me enough to uphold my end of the agreement without having to send two enforcers to disrupt my event. This is the biggest event of the season." He topped abruptly, as if he decided that it was a waste of his time to try and explain this to them. "I suppose you want to see the necklace. Very well. Follow me."


@ModernMarvel
 

Brienna Lanaamer

Character
Jedi Order
Rank
Jedi Knight

Character Profile
Link
OOC
ModernMarvel
Joined
Jan 6, 2020
Messages
362
Reaction score
205
"I suppose you're right. No sense in putting the inevitable introductions off. As much as we might want to."

Bri offered a knowing glance and a nod of her head in reply to Atris' comments, signaling her agreement. The two Jedi set off, and navigated the ever growing crowds of well dressed party-goers. The woman offered a repetitive series of smiles and nods to those she passed, occasionally having to lean and turn sideways to dodge an arm or elbow. The grand staircase to the side of the room held a few more guests, and as Bri climbed, she got a better sense of just how many people had filled into the estate. The floor length windows on the opposite side of the room had opened to welcome the fresh night air, and following suit, some had already taken advantage of the pleasant evening.

Though Rikil had his own security, Bri surmised that it would be easy for someone, potentially nefarious, to blend into the large crowd, easily escaping. Mentally preparing for a variety of scenarios, the Jedi used their higher position to make a note of each of the exits. Bri and Atris arrived at their hosts' side, as he remained engaged in reasonably hushed conversation with his two Twi'lek advisors, who, on closer inspection, appeared to be security.

The two Jedi remained quietly patient, standing close enough to Rikil that any non-acknowledgement of their presence was clearly purposeful. Bri studied the man, and judged him to fit in quite well with the Naboo elite. Bright colored, intricate garments, with an interesting groomed mustache left the Councilor a hard person to miss in a crowd. Bri felt a growing awkwardness as more and more time elapsed without so much as a glance or nod to their presence. The blonde woman turned to her counterpart and offered another knowing glance, raising her eyebrows.

Atris took the tactical approach, which Bri appreciated, as Rikil was forced to engage with the two, no matter how much he didn't want to. However, the Jedi's respectful introduction was quickly interrupted by the rushed Councilor, who snapped in seeming frustration, making eye contact with both Jedi.

"I know who you both are. I noticed the two of you the moment you walked in."

Because we look nice? Bri wanted to joke, but bit her tongue, feeling the timing wasn't exactly right. She caught a glance from Atris, who appeared to be thinking the same thing.

"I would have thought that the Jedi would trust me enough to uphold my end of the agreement without having to send two enforcers to disrupt my event. This is the biggest event of the season."

Bri held up her hands and offered her most diplomatic smile. "We appreciate your hospitality, Councilor. And don't worry, our presence here will be purely ornamental. If you please," the woman nodded in accepting Rikil's offer. The Jedi threw another glance at her partner. Seems friendly, huh?

@llamallove
 

Atris Tharen

Character
Jedi Order
Rank
Jedi Knight

Character Profile
Link
OOC
llamallove
Joined
Jan 16, 2020
Messages
141
Reaction score
85
The Royal Advisor stared at the golden haired Jedi Knight, his well-groomed mustache twitching as he weighed the legitimacy of her statement. "I should certainly hope so," he huffed. For all of his wealth and pomp, Atris was reminded of a small child who hadn't gotten his way. He looked like an overgrown boy with a big mustache dressed in fine array. Atris had to keep herself from laughing at the comparison, a task made all the more difficult by Brienna who appeared to be trying to keep a sarcastic and no doubt amusing comment to herself.

Brienna's assurance had appeared to placate him for the time being, however, and with a sweep of his floor-length robes, he beckoned the Jedi to follow him. As the Royal Advisor led the two Jedi toward their objective, Atris met the look Brienna threw her way, unable to hide the mirthful expression that spread across her face. She was impressed by the way Brienna had handled their host. "Nice work," Atris whispered.

"I would appreciate it if the two of you did not go around introducing yourself as Jedi," Rikil added in a hushed tone as he looked around to make sure he could not be overheard by anyone. "Not everyone here has positive relations with the Order as I do. Some of them disapprove of you rather strongly I am afraid." His green eyes trailed over each of the Jedi in turn, as if he could understand why. "I am a much more open-minded man than most, but still, there is no sense in offending any of my guests. They're here to have a good time, after all. In fact, I would prefer it if you didn't speak to any of them at all."

He's not a very welcoming host for someone so "open-minded."

"
As my partner said, we are not here to intrude-"

"A little late for that, isn't it?"

Atris ignored his remark and continued. "We're simply here to ensure that nothing happens to the artifact."

Daymar Rikil came to a stop in front of a glass case. "Well, here it is. Safe and secure, just as I promised." The case was situated alone, not far from a section of the second-floor railing. Arranged delicately on a display stand within the glass case was the ancient necklace, the light from the chandelier dancing upon its ornate stone arrangement.

"I have my own private security, the best money can buy," Rikil boasted, pointing to the display's cyberlock, "And the case is kept locked. There's only one key that can open it, and I keep it on my person at all times." He pulled a code cylinder from his pocket and waved it at the Jedi, as if somehow that would convince them "Should someone wish to steal this necklace, they would have to break the glass, and no one is foolish enough to do that in front of all these people."

Or they could just take the key from your pocket, Atris thought to herself, looking over at Brienna.

Rikil shoved his hands in his pockets, his brow furrowing in disapproval at the two Jedi. "As you can see, no one could possibly steal this necklace. It's impossible."

"There you are, darling. I've been looking everywhere for you." A woman casually slipped her arm through Rikil's. She had to be at least two decades younger than him, with dark red hair and a light complexion. "There's some old friends of mine I'm just dying for you to meet." Her cool gaze shifted to the two young women her husband had been in conversation with only a moment before. "I hope you don't mind my borrowing my husband?"


@ModernMarvel
 

Brienna Lanaamer

Character
Jedi Order
Rank
Jedi Knight

Character Profile
Link
OOC
ModernMarvel
Joined
Jan 6, 2020
Messages
362
Reaction score
205
The Jedi's mollification seemed to have the intended effect, as after a few moments of chewing on his own thoughts, Rikil acquiesced to Bri's comments. The woman pondered internally. Why is our being here such an issue for him? It's not like we're interrupting or breaking anything. Plus we're great at blending in. Bri wondered if there was something bigger at play. Before she could evaluate her thoughts any further, Rikil beckoned the two Jedi to follow him towards his collection. Bri and Atris caught each others eye. The blonde woman flashed a smile in response to the compliment.

"I would appreciate it if the two of you did not go around introducing yourself as Jedi. Not everyone here has positive relations with the Order as I do. Some of them disapprove of you rather strongly I am afraid. I am a much more open-minded man than most, but still, there is no sense in offending any of my guests. They're here to have a good time, after all. In fact, I would prefer it if you didn't speak to any of them at all."


Councilor Rikil went on a fairly lengthy explanation which elaborated his views on the Jedi. It caused Bri's brow to furrow further in confusion. If he's open-minded, I'd like to see what he means by someone who isn't. The comment on offending the guests, forced another stifled laugh from the blonde woman. What does he think? We're just some misbehaved miscreants? I'm perfectly capable of helping to contribute to a 'good time.' Atris offered the first chance a reply, which, like before, was cut off by the pompous man.

The case containing the artifact was placed on on the second floor, in between a few other displays, a fair distance from the balcony. Rikil seemed quite pleased with his set-up. "I have my own private security, the best money can buy. And the case is kept locked. There's only one key that can open it, and I keep it on my person at all times." Something tells me he's got a lot of, 'the best that money can buy.'

As the Councilor spoke, Bri walked slowly around the case, her gaze fixed hard upon the necklace. She could feel its presence through the Force. But what exactly is that presence? The Jedi closed her eyes for a brief moment, tilting her head slightly in concentration. It was old, yes, but there was something mysterious about it that she could not put her finger on. Rikil's additional boast caught her attention.

"As you can see, no one could possibly steal this necklace. It's impossible."

"Councilor, I'm afraid when it comes to the Force, the impossible often becomes the doable." It was a rebuttal, but Bri had tried to sound as amenable as possible, offering a soft warning. Rikil appeared unimpressed and harrumphed, brushing away the Jedi's concern with a wave of his hand. A new arrival interrupted the proceedings. A younger woman with dark red hair looped her arm through Rikil's and asked to pull him away to greet a few other guests. Shouldn't be surprised that's his wife.

"Of course," Bri smiled. Rikil appeared almost caught in two minds of wanting to maintain his sharp observance of the two Jedi but also enjoy the party with his wife.

"My security team will be watching you two," he added after a moment, pointing a wagging finger between the women. "No funny business!"

"Wouldn't dream of it, Councilor," Bri nodded again with a smile. "We'll be right here," Rikil offered a begrudging acceptance, and let himself get pulled away by his wife, greeting a nearby group of guests, before disappearing further into the crowds.

"Well, that went just about how I expected," Bri sighed, looking over at Atris.

@llamallove
 

Atris Tharen

Character
Jedi Order
Rank
Jedi Knight

Character Profile
Link
OOC
llamallove
Joined
Jan 16, 2020
Messages
141
Reaction score
85
Brienna was correct of course, but Daymar Rikil was too pompous and arrogant to admit that. He would never admit that his secuirty was fallible, his mansion susceptible, but they were. Anything was possible, especially on a night like tonight. There were more people roaming the halls of this mansion than could be counted. It would be easy for a stranger to slip into the crowd and go completely unnoticed. Rikil and his wife couldn't possibly know all of these people personally.

Wouldn't it more prudent if your security team watched the artifacts and guests, not two Jedi? Atris thought to herself, her lips pressed. Daymar Rikil was more of a fool than she had previously believed, and that was saying something. The Royal Advisor was pulled away by his lovely wife, and the two Jedi were left alone at last. It was not a moment too soon for Atris. Rikil's company would not be missed.

She traced a finger thoughtfully along the edging of the glass case. Something felt... off. She couldn't place what or who it was, but the feeling was there. She turned her attention toward her Jedi companion and chuckled at her remark, smiling easily.

"A charming man, isn't he? I'm still waiting to see the 'good relations with the Order' he talked about."

The dark haired Jedi wandered out onto the nearby balcony and into the warm evening air. The sounds of crickets and cicadas almost muffled the music and chatter of the gala. She leaned against the balcony's stone railing and peered over the side. A wooden trellis with some kind of green, vining plant ran the length of the estate directly below. Any agile person could easily climb the trellis and make the short jump to the balcony. Or simpler yet, use a grappling hook.

One of the twi'leks Rikil had been in conversation with only moments earlier paced the lawn below. At least that was something.

There were probably a hundred such entry points scattered across the mansion. It would be impossible to watch all of them, even if Rikil did have the best security money could buy. The Jedi's best bet was to stay near the artifact and keep a watchful eye on it and every guest that passed by. It was a waiting game.

Her inspection of the balcony complete, she rested her gaze on Brienna, her new Jedi companion. The blonde Jedi was easy to work with, and Atris had been impressed by her handling of Daymar Rikil. Her pleasant company and ready wit was like a breath of fresh air compared to the cold greeting the pair had received from their host. The information the Order had sent her contained little more than Brienna's description and name, so she knew very little about the Jedi Knight but hoped to change that.

"Do you mind if I get to know you better?" Atris asked, giving Brienna the straight-forward option to decline if she so wished. The galaxy and everyone in it was complicated and complex. Not everyone wanted to talk about themselves or their past. She started with the most obvious question. "Where are you from?"



@ModernMarvel
 

Brienna Lanaamer

Character
Jedi Order
Rank
Jedi Knight

Character Profile
Link
OOC
ModernMarvel
Joined
Jan 6, 2020
Messages
362
Reaction score
205
"A charming man, isn't he? I'm still waiting to see the 'good relations with the Order' he talked about."

Bri chortled at Atris' comments. "Yeah, I wouldn't hold my breath on that," she replied with a slight shrug of her shoulders. The Jedi shifted her gaze and watched as her colleague walked out to the nearby balcony. Following suit, Bri stepped forward, and evaluated the large entertainment area, now that most of the guests had already arrived. Obviously it was crowded, and that didn't provide any benefits to keeping track of potential threats. The Jedi attempted to reach out with the Force, but was unable to pick out any specific inklings of feelings. Bri reminded herself that the two Jedi were there only as a precaution, and that they did not have any actionable intelligence which suggested otherwise.

Nevertheless, for the sake of preparation Bri tried to best to calculate for possible outcomes. Though Rikil had boasted about his security, Bri couldn't trust entirely his word. It seemed a little paranoid, but it was possible that any of the guests could have shammed their way into the event. Likewise, any of the staff serving the event could have fraudulently gained access for any number of nefarious purposes. The Jedi peered over to the lower level, spotting the backroom where the staff had access to the kitchen and were frequently entering and exiting with trays of canapes and drinks.

The best security money can buy...... Bri pondered internally in her mind, before hearing Atris walk back in. She turned back towards her Jedi partner as a question was posed. "Oh? No not at all," Bri nodded with a smile, appreciative of the question. "I'm from Chandrila, originally. Its quite nice, if you've never been. Its temperate, with rolling plains and decent sized cities. Hanna is the capital. That's where I grew up." The Jedi reflected silently for a moment. It had been a while since she had returned to her home planet. The memory of a warm summer breeze flowing through her hair always stayed fresh in mind, no matter how long she had been away. "I think most Chandrillans appreciate what it means to live along side nature. Nothing like Coruscant or other ecumenopoli'" Something Bri had learned travelling the galaxy was what meant to feel like being at home. "But I've spent the past decade or so with the Jedi on Ajan Kloss and Yavin, also travelling around the Galaxy," Bri added, somewhat as an afterthought.

"What about you?" she looked over curiously at Atris, leaning an arm against the glass display case.

@llamallove
 

Atris Tharen

Character
Jedi Order
Rank
Jedi Knight

Character Profile
Link
OOC
llamallove
Joined
Jan 16, 2020
Messages
141
Reaction score
85
Atris laughed, her eyes brightening with the playful banter the two Jedi exchanged. She had had her doubts about the evening when entering the estate, but she was enjoying herself after all thanks in large part to her companion. Even Daymar Rikil couldn't spoil that. At least for now. As her blonde haired companion suggested, she would not hold her breath.

Brienna did not seem averse to opening up and allowing Atris to get to know her a little better, which pleased the latter. You never knew how people would react when you asked them a personal question, even one as simple as where they came from. Brienna didn't seem like most people though. She struck Atris as an easy-going woman who was even easier to get along with. At times the blonde Jedi Knight appeared to be bored or unexcited, but that was probably because Atris did not know her very well. Brienna smiled too easily for someone who was disinterested. She was genuine, and that was a rare quality these days.

Atris had never been to Chandrila before, but she had heard of the core world and its breathtaking rolling hills and its calm seas. Brienna's fond and loving description of the planet made it sound all the more beautiful, and Atris hoped that one day her journeys would lead her to the planet. Brienna had grown up in the planet's capital city, which possibly explained why the Jedi was more at ease and sure of herself amidst the lavish gathering and aristocratic attendees than Atris was.

Brienna leaned comfortably against the glass display case as she spoke, and Atris was content to listen until she asked the same question of her.

"I'm from Tatooine. Mos Eisley, specifically." She let out a small chuckle and shrugged, unsure what else there was to say about the planet. In her experience most people had visited the planet at least once, usually just a stop on their way to something bigger and better. "You've probably been there before," she assumed. "Mos Eisley's a major spaceport on the planet, so a lot of people pass through. Unfortunately, that also means it attracts a lot of smugglers and fugitives. But it's not all bad, even though it might seem like it. There's good people there too."

She smiled. Brienna said she'd been away from her home planet for about a decade. Atris wondered if she still considered it her home or if she was more of a nomad, her home wherever she happened to be. "Do you miss it? Home?" she asked, hoping the question wasn't too personal and did not cross some invisible line.


@ModernMarvel
 

Brienna Lanaamer

Character
Jedi Order
Rank
Jedi Knight

Character Profile
Link
OOC
ModernMarvel
Joined
Jan 6, 2020
Messages
362
Reaction score
205
Bri was familiar with Tatooine. It was, well, its very different from Chandrila. Hot, sandy, barren, desert. The Jedi wanted to be polite about Atris' home, but mincing words wasn't her strong suit. She nodded in familiarity, "I've passed through Mos Eisley before, and you're right that it attracts some ... interesting characters. I don't think I've ever met a native Tatooine-er?," she questioned the classification of people from Tatooine. Though there were obvious reservations about the desert planet, Bri could tell there was a certain fondness that Atris still held for her homeworld, which was pleasing for the Jedi to appreciate.

"I can't say I've spent any extended time on the planet. I ....," she started, but paused, "well, I'm not really a fan of hot weather. Neither is my hair," she laughed brightly at her self-deprecating joke, tucking a stray strand behind her left-ear. "Just a frizzled mess, really," she grinned.

"Do you miss it? Home?"

The woman remained quiet for a moment. She stared off into the hustle of the party as memories of her childhood on Chandrila were recalled. She enjoyed it. It was calm and peaceful. The planet had a tranquil quality where she had first discovered and felt her connection to the Force. A life defining moment. "Yeah," Bri nodded, "I suppose I do," sounding almost unsure of herself. "My, uhh, my family still lives there," she added, almost awkwardly. Those were more complicated emotions. Jedi didn't really do attachments, and though she knew her family supported her Jedi work, they had remained distant ever since she joined the Order as a teenager. "But, its still home, so I don't know if that feeling can ever escape your heart,"

Escape your heart? Sheesh, did I really just say that? What am I? Some kind of melodramatic poet?

Bri tried to move on from the statement that had just made her cringe internally, with a micro-eye roll. "What about you? Do you miss anything specific from Tatooine?"

@llamallove
 

Atris Tharen

Character
Jedi Order
Rank
Jedi Knight

Character Profile
Link
OOC
llamallove
Joined
Jan 16, 2020
Messages
141
Reaction score
85
Interesting characters was putting it mildly. Brienna was trying to be polite, but there were only so many positive things to be said about a planet that included slaves among its top three major exports. "I don't think there's an official name. I grew up hearing Tatooinian." Atris added with a chuckle, "But I don't think any categorization would quite roll of the tongue."

She laughed along with Brienna at the blonde Jedi's joke about her hair. Having spent her entire childhood on the planet, Atris was accustomed but not fond of the planet's hot and arid climate, but upon further thought, she supposed it would not be a conducive environment for hair. Then again, on a planet as sparsely populated as Tatooine, there was no need to impress. There really wasn't anyone to impress.

Brienna quieted and turned her attention toward the crowd as soon as Atris asked her if she missed Chandrila, and the dark haired Jedi wondered if she had asked the wrong thing at the wrong time. It certainly wouldn't have been the first time. Atris began forming an apology in her head, trying desperately to come up with a new direction the conversation could take. The weather? The gala? Another shared joke at the expense of Daymar Rikil?

Instead Brienna nodded and answered, "Yeah." She continued to expand upon her statement, apparently not put off by the question but possibly made uncomfortable by the memories it brought up. Her demeanor and posture changed, lacking the same confidence it had held before, but Atris pretended not to notice this. The Jedi recovered herself soon enough, playfully rolling her eyes.

Atris, on the other hand, smiled. She found Brienna's statement touching and wise. It was true. No matter how far you might travel throughout the expanse of the galaxy, there would always be a piece of your heart that remained at home. Or rather, a piece of home in your heart.

"I do miss my aunt and uncle," Atris replied honestly, chewing on the corner of her bottom lip. "They raised me. My uncle runs a little shop in Mos Eisley near the junk yard." She worried about them, too. She couldn't remember when she had last visited them, and their correspondence with her had lessened over the years. Mos Eisley was not a kind city. As a girl of fifteen Atris had been as eager to escape Tatooine as she had been eager to begin her Jedi training.

Concerned she had brought the mood down and the conversation to a screeching halt, she swiftly added, "One thing I don't miss are the black melons. I know they sound like they'd be good, but trust me, they're not." She laughed. "The milk inside is safe to drink. It won't hurt you, but it tastes absolutely horrendous!"


@ModernMarvel
 

Brienna Lanaamer

Character
Jedi Order
Rank
Jedi Knight

Character Profile
Link
OOC
ModernMarvel
Joined
Jan 6, 2020
Messages
362
Reaction score
205
"No, I think you're right on that," Bri replied in agreement. It was not something that really rolled off the tongue. But then again, words like that really didn't anyways. The Jedi tried to think of what her fellows from Chandrila were called, Chandrillans, which did actually fit a little bit better. Less vowels.

Bri caught the faintest feeling that Atris had noticed the change of her demeanor. Despite her correction, the Jedi hoped Atris knew it was nothing to do with her. Bri turned to face her Jedi colleague as she quickly replied with her own background. Though the two Jedi came from distinctly different backgrounds, they obviously had a few notable similarities. The slight hesitation that Bri both heard and felt from Atris as she mentioned her aunt and uncle was familiar. There was emotion behind her statement, and though she didn't say as much, Bri got the feeling that it weighed heavily on Atris. "What kind of shop is it?" Bri asked with a curious glance.

The younger Jedi quickly added a follow up. Bri had no idea what black melons were. In a Galaxy filled with a variety of foods and drinks, 'black melons' were not something that she had come across. Despite what she says, they don't actually sound good. The Jedi laughed at Atris' enthusiasm for the unfortunate tasting fruit. "Well, that is good to know then. Must say, I've never ran across them before," Bri confessed. "What exactly do they taste like?" the Jedi raised an eyebrow, curious as to how they would be described.

"Not sure if there's anything like that on Chandrila," Bri surmised, tilting her head and eyes upward in thought.

@llamallove
 

Atris Tharen

Character
Jedi Order
Rank
Jedi Knight

Character Profile
Link
OOC
llamallove
Joined
Jan 16, 2020
Messages
141
Reaction score
85
"A used parts and repair shop," Atris answered. "He does a little bit of everything when it comes to repairs, from speeder bikes to droids to chronometers. With Mos Eisley being a major space port, he manages to stay busy. I used to help him out when I was a little girl, but I never was technologically minded. Looking back, I probably wasn't much help."

A smile spread across the Jedi Knight's lips as she remembered how she used to tease him. "He likes to think of himself as this great mechanic, but mostly he tinkers."

Atris laughed along with the blonde Jedi Knight. "Hopefully it will stay that way. I doubt you'll run across black melons anywhere besides Tatooine. Other than Tusken Raiders, I don't think anyone can stand the taste of them. They're horribly bitter, and the aftertaste they leave in your mouth lasts for hours. Trying to wash it down with blue milk only makes it worse."

Realizing she had done a great deal of talking, Atris decided to turn the conversation back toward Brienna. The dark haired Jedi was surprised how simple it was to talk to her fellow Jedi Knight. Sometimes carrying on a conversation was difficult on assignments such as these, whenever two Jedi who had never worked together and did not know one another were thrown together. That was not the case with Brienna, however, and Atris was happy about that.

"What was it like to grow up with so much water?" Atris asked, laughing good naturedly at herself and the absurdity of the question. It must have sounded odd to Brienna. "As a little girl I imagined people who lived near the sea swimming every single day without fail. I have a feeling you're about to disillusion me."

She smiled and leaned against the railing across from Brienna, awaiting an answer and tuning out the sounds of the gala behind her. Briefly, Atris' eyes wandered to the floor below, searching the crowd for Daymar Rikil. He stood near the open patio doors leading out to the gardens. He was in deep conversation with a group of four or five people, but his wife was no longer on his arm.

I wonder where our charming hostess could have disappeared to?


@ModernMarvel
 

Brienna Lanaamer

Character
Jedi Order
Rank
Jedi Knight

Character Profile
Link
OOC
ModernMarvel
Joined
Jan 6, 2020
Messages
362
Reaction score
205
Bri smiled, hearing the fondness at which Atris spoke about her family's mechanic shop on Tatooine. It didn't take a Jedi reader of emotions to sense the feeling behind the words. Bri reflected on her own background. She had fond memories, but they were much different that Atris'. Hers was a privileged background, where she found her parents more caring about their place in Chandriallan aristocracy. The woman nodded, "I'm sure you were more help than you think," with a grin. "I'll keep it in mind if I'm ever on Tatooine." Bri was tempted to joke about her poor flying skills, which resulted in her needing to visit a mechanic far more often than the usual consumer, but bit her tongue.

"Oh..." Bri made an unpleasant sound at hearing the description of the black melons. Pretty much any food that had a taste stay in your mouth for hours was not something that the Jedi wanted to be a part of. "Though in a weird way, I am kind of tempted now, just to taste it," she laughed heartily. Blue milk was actually something she had tasted while on Tatooine. It wasn't great, but it also wasn't terrible.

The Jedi tilted her head in curiosity at Atris' question. Truthfully it was something that Bri had never considered. Chandrila was a lush planet filled with water. She quickly sympathized deeply for those that had the hardship of viewing water as just a means to continue survival by drinking. Bri ran a hand through her hair in thought of how to respond. "Uhh, well, yeah, I guess it was nice. You know I never really thought about it," The Jedi wanted to be polite about her answer, and not try to sound to spoiled. Truthfully, she loved swimming, and had a pool growing up. "We didn't live that close to the sea, but I did always enjoy the opportunities to swim, whether it was a river, lake, that kind of thing. Wasn't exactly daily, though" she smiled.

The conversation coming to a somewhat natural lull, Bri spotted Atris keenly look out over the assembled crowd. Keeping a side glance on necklace, she walked up beside her, and placed her hands on the balcony. The Jedi hadn't felt any noticeable change in the large space, nor had she spotted anything immediately notable. "You see something?" Bri said to Atris quietly, keeping her eyes on the crowds below.

@llamallove
 

Atris Tharen

Character
Jedi Order
Rank
Jedi Knight

Character Profile
Link
OOC
llamallove
Joined
Jan 16, 2020
Messages
141
Reaction score
85
It was kind of Brienna to encourage Atris. Thoughtful, even. Atris could sense that the blonde Jedi was genuine, and that alone turned the corners of Atris' mouth upwards. She could readily recall all of the times she had blown a circuit or set wiring on fire and her uncle had shooed her out of his garage with an angry huff. She knew better, but if Brienna was kind enough to think better of her, she would not correct her.

"I urge you to reconsider," the dark haired Jedi laughed, the corners of her eyes crinkling with the intensity of her laugh. "However, if you do ever happen to try a black melon while on Tatooine, be sure to let me know what you think. And make sure you have something other than blue milk on you to wash it down."

As was to be expected, Brienna appeared to be somewhat confused by Atris' question. It was only natural. To Atris' knowledge, no other planet in the galaxy other than Tatooine had a surface water level of one percent. Brienna was choosing her words carefully, thoughtfully running her hand through her long blonde hair. Her reservations caused Atris to wonder if she had phrased the question poorly. Had she put her Jedi companion on the spot?

Atris did not resent Brienna or where she hailed from, nor did she look at her any differently because of it. They had different upbringings no doubt, but that didn't mean anything to Atris. Just because Brienna had grown up in the capital city of Chandrila and not on Tatooine did not mean her life had been any easier than Atris'. It did not mean she had not faced her own hardships, her own trials and setbacks. Luxurious surroundings did not guarantee a luxurious life, and it did not guarantee happiness. As the old saying went, sometimes more credits meant more problems. Perhaps the old saying was not very poetic, but that did not take away from its validity.

She didn't want Brienna to think she had to walk on egg shells around her just because they came from different parts of the galaxy. Hopefully Brienna knew that.

"It's what I don't see," Atris replied, matching her companion's quiet tone. "Our hostess has disappeared. I don't see her anywhere."

"Ladies!"

Speak of the devil.

Daymar Rikil's wife approached them from behind, a glass of something bubbly in one hand and her dark red hair pulled into an elegant up do that bounced with every step. She came to an abrupt stop directly in front of the two Jedi, a little too close for comfort. "I've been looking all over for you two!" she drawled, pointing a long finger at each of them in turn.

Atris shared a knowing look with Brienna, arching an eyebrow. The two Jedi had been standing here for the last half hour. They hadn't moved. If our hostess was not such a respectable lady, I would hazard to say that she is inebriated.

"I wanted to apologize for my husband. I heard the way he spoke to the two of you earlier, and it was absolutely... absolutely disgusting," she slurred, shifting from one heel to another in an attempt to keep her balance. "You are guests here, after all!"

"That is alright, Mrs Rikil-"

"Call me Victoria," she interrupted desperately, giggling as she finished her drink and shoved the empty glass into Atris' hands. The Jedi's nose wrinkled at the smell of the strong drink. She never drank.

"Or Vicky. That's what all my friends call me." She squeezed her slender form between the pair of Jedi and slung her arms around both of their shoulders, cackling. "And I can tell that we are going to be such marvelous friends."



@ModernMarvel
 
Last edited:

Brienna Lanaamer

Character
Jedi Order
Rank
Jedi Knight

Character Profile
Link
OOC
ModernMarvel
Joined
Jan 6, 2020
Messages
362
Reaction score
205
"Thanks for the advice," Bri smiled in reply. The Jedi had no idea on when or if she'd go back to Tatooine, but this interesting fruit, even if it was that, had now piqued her interest. She made a few mental connections in her head to connect thought points. The planet isn't really the most conducive to growing, well, anything. So whatever does grow, probably isn't exactly full of sweet flavor like on other worlds. I wonder if it's some kind of delicacy to certain people. Sometimes things tended to work out that way.

Atris remained quiet as Bri spoke about her fondness for swimming. Though Bri trying to be polite, the more she understood of her Jedi colleague's personality, the more confident that she was that it was something Atris wouldn't be too upset by. She seemed pretty easy going. At least from the short period of time that they'd spend in each others company. Likewise, Bri was not the kind of the person to flaunt any kind of personal wealth or status. There were some Jedi who were a little more likely to, but by and large it wasn't an issue that she encountered too often.

"It's what I don't see,"

Curious. Indeed, the red-haired woman who had removed Rikil from their previous awkward encounter was indeed not to be seen around the rest of the large hall. Based on the introduction, Bri judged that she obviously enjoyed being quite center of attention, and....

"Ladies!"

Bri's thought was interrupted, quite literally by their hostess.

"I've been looking all over for you two!"

The Jedi caught glances between each other. Why would she be looking for us? It was a seemingly strange thing to say. On multiple levels. The comment seemed more suited for well-acquainted connections or indeed friends, not for someone who had only exchanged a polite words. Likewise, they hadn't exactly moved around the estate. The two Jedi were exactly, bar a few feet difference, where they had first met Mrs. Daymar Rikil. Also strange.

"I wanted to apologize for my husband. I heard the way he spoke to the two of you earlier, and it was absolutely... absolutely disgusting. "You are guests here, after all!"

As she got closer, Bri got the distinct impression that Mrs. Rikil had been enjoying the drinks that had been on offer. Multiple of them. Wait, is she drunk already? The party's only been going for like an hour. Bri did drink, but she would not be doing so during the party to keep her senses at one-hundred percent. Well, maybe a quick glass on the way out, depending on how the night goes. Bri furrowed her brows in quick thought. Something doesn't add up here. Expecting her to stop, Bri was more than a little surprised as Mrs. Rikil, Victoria, or Vicky, quickly invaded the entirety of her personal space, and slung an arm around her shoulder.

"And I can tell that we are going to be such marvelous friends."

Being the taller of the two women, Bri was forced to slouch slightly to accommodate Victoria's arm. It was not a comfortable position. She also quickly held her hand up to ensure that Victoria's arm did not pull the strap of her jumpsuit down over her left shoulder. What exactly is going on here?

Bri politely patted Victoria's arm with her free hand and slowly extricated herself from the chummy grasp. "Ah, well, Victoria," Bri made a point of saying, "we're just pleased that your husband has been so accommodating of us. This is a quite lovely collection," she looked around at all the various pieces of art, sculpture, and jewelry on display.

Victoria rolled her eyes in a less than subtle manner. "Ugh, yes Daymar's always going on about his collection," she made almost a mocking voice, drooping slightly, and waving her hands. "I'm not one for art, but the jewels...," she looked almost greedily at the necklace in the case. "the jewels are worth every penny."

@llamallove
 

Atris Tharen

Character
Jedi Order
Rank
Jedi Knight

Character Profile
Link
OOC
llamallove
Joined
Jan 16, 2020
Messages
141
Reaction score
85
Brienna carefully removed herself from the long and slender arm of their hostess. Apparently the blonde Jedi was as uncomfortable as Atris was. The latter attempted to do the same, but Mrs. Rikil had a firm hold on the Jedi. She's not as frail as she looks.

"They are... very pretty, Mrs. Rikil," Atris managed to reply as she struggled free of her hostess' grasp at last.

Mrs. Rikil tore her eyes away from the ornate necklace, the greedy look in her eyes suddenly gone as she glanced between the two Jedi. "Please, I told you to call me Vicky," she pouted, her countenance beginning to fall. "It's what all my friends call me, and I do so want you to be my friends..." Her eyes brimmed with unshed tears. "No one here tonight ever calls me Vicky. Not even my darling Daymar calls me Vicky. He calls me Victoria," she hissed, putting particular emphasis on her name.

"He's so handsome, isn't he?" she asked them both, her bottom lip beginning to tremble. Then Mrs. Rikil... or rather, Vicky began to sob uncontrollably, her shoulder shaking with every breath she took. She looked between the two Jedi in turn, as if making up her mind, and then threw herself toward Atris, who happened to be closer. Evidently, she wanted to be comforted. "Daymar never has time for me you see."

Mrs. Rikil's tears began to stain Atris' clothing, and her breath reeked of alcohol. The Jedi cast a sweeping glance around the room, expecting to find people staring. At present, no one had noticed Mrs. Rikil's sudden outburst. It was, perhaps, lucky that they were away from most of the crowd.

"He's always busy with his collection.... or his work. I know they're im-important, but surely... surely they can't be more im-important that his wife, can they?" She clutched at Atris' clothing and cried harder.

Either Mrs. Rikil is very, very drunk or she is a good actress. Atris was still undecided. The Jedi Knight lifted a hand and lightly began to pat Mrs. Rikil's back, unsure what else to do. She looked over their hostess' shoulder to Brienna, a pained and awkward expression on her face as if to say, Help me?

"I'm- I'm sorry," Mrs. Rikil suddenly stammered, sniffing as she backed away from Atris.

Thank goodness, the dark haired Jedi thought with relief. Not a moment too soon.

"I... I don't know what came over me. I'm just so upset, you see. Suddenly... suddenly I don't feel very well. Please ex...cuse me, ladies." She stumbled a few feet away from the pair of Jedi before doubling over and clutching her stomach. "Would you please help me to my room? I.... don't want Daymar to see me like this. He'll be so... furious."



@ModernMarvel
 

Brienna Lanaamer

Character
Jedi Order
Rank
Jedi Knight

Character Profile
Link
OOC
ModernMarvel
Joined
Jan 6, 2020
Messages
362
Reaction score
205
Bri didn't mean to, but stifled another laugh. Though the situation was highly awkward and increasingly uncomfortable, the scene of Atris trying to disentangle herself from the surprisingly strong Victoria was amusing. She eventually got herself free and followed the compliment of the jewelry collection.

"Please, I told you to call me Vicky, It's what all my friends call me, and I do so want you to be my friends.....No one here tonight ever calls me Vicky. Not even my darling Daymar calls me Vicky. He calls me Victoria,"

Victoria seemed to be tumbling down the hill of emotional stability. She leaped from the the reaffirmation of her nickname to what Bri suspected was some built up resentment towards her husband. Bri watched as Vicky spotted Daymar in the crowd and then proceeded to burst into tears. The Jedi was used to calm and composed emotions. Things rarely unexpected and orderly. A sudden outburst of crying was not really something the Order had trained her in. Bri looked with confused large blue eyes at Atris, as if saying, I have no idea.

Luckily for Bri, or unluckily for Atris, Victoria decided to latch on to the dark haired Jedi as means for support. Atris was doing the best she could, trying to placate the distressed woman. The pent up emotions continued to be set free as Victoria continued to air her grievances against her husband.

"He's always busy with his collection.... or his work. I know they're im-important, but surely... surely they can't be more im-important that his wife, can they?"

The Jedi had no idea how to respond to the question. The most obvious answer was 'no,' but Bri's analytical mind judged to be lacking the necessary evidence to reply. In any case, the awkwardness of the situation continued as the blonde woman's thoughts manifested into an, "uhhh,"

Bri caught Atris' glance, which read as an almost painful, help me. It was rare that Bri felt helpless in a situation, but this was once of those times. The best she could do was offer a shrug, with a similarly confused look on her own face and shake of her head. Still, Bri was confused by what had made Victoria choose the two Jedi to be the recipients of her emotional outbursts. It almost seemed like too much of a coincidence. And if there's one thing I'm suspicious of.....

Vicky appeared to get a hold of herself, relinquishing Atris from her death grip-hug, and apologizing to the two Jedi. Somehow the scene between the three of them had remained secluded, and it appeared that no one else had hardly paid any attention.

"I... I don't know what came over me. I'm just so upset, you see. Suddenly... suddenly I don't feel very well. Please ex...cuse me, ladies. Would you please help me to my room? I.... don't want Daymar to see me like this. He'll be so... furious."

Bri looked over at Atris, unsure of how to proceed. She was of two minds. The first was their priority assignment of keeping tabs on the necklace behind them. However, despite the histrionics from Victoria, which appeared to be fueled by alcohol, Bri still held a healthy dose of skepticism about the whole situation, casting a critical eye in the red-haired woman's direction. The Jedi stood close to her partner as Victoria manifested a tissue from a servant.

She spoke in quiet, hushed tones, "What do you think? Do you want to split up? One of us go with her and the other stay here? I feel.....," she paused, sounding unsure, "I feel there's something off about her." It was clear that Bri was referring to something other than what appeared to be obvious drunkenness on the surface.

@llamallove
 
Top