Open Social Onderon An Onderon Outing

[Jaikus Thorne]

Jaikus turned his attention back to Korre, emerald eyes fixating onto the Belascan woman as a smile tugged at the corners of his lips. He did not miss the little twinkle in her eyes, nor the sudden interest when he mentioned his profession.

He couldn’t help but visible brighten as they moved pasted introductions and onto this newest topic of conversation. He looked visibly more relaxed, and his smile portrayed a bit more warmth that his usual polite expression.

There was no denying that the Axxilan had always been an academic at heart, growing practically giddy whenever the topic turned to matters of history. It was something Emryc had witnessed on multiple occasions since they had been together, having a front-row seat to all of the Axxilan’s long-winded lectures and spiraling trains of thought. And it was for that precise reason that Jaikus has pursued academia in his public persona, finally putting his higher education to use while indulging his passion for the subject.

Jaikus took a sip from his drink, humming softly before answering. “I am a professor of history for the Hanna Institute of Antiquities. Well, adjunct professor.” He chuckled softly. “And I do believe the entire galaxy considers you to be an educated woman.” He smiled, tipping his glass towards the Belascan. “After all, your work with the GHO is famous across the galaxy. And I have had the pleasure of reading some of your published works."

He tapped his finger against his glass, pausing for a brief moment. There was a distinct glint in the Axxilan's eye at that moment, making it clear she had his full attention for the moment. “Your field of study was microbiology and biochemistry before politics, yes?”

@Sreeya @llamallove @Charles @Fine Dining Set @Song @Mockingjay

 

[Elayne Isard]

Elayne was, at the insistence of Gustav her PR manager, fashionably late to the gathering the Senator of Onderon had arranged at his residence. Though if Joe had any say in the matter they might not have arrived for another hour. They had been married for close to a decade now, and she couldn't comprehend how someone needed that much time to get ready. Elayne herself had an entire army of aides and droids whose very job was to keep her presentable for almost every waking hour, sometimes forcing her to change multiple times a day, and yet she could not remember a single instance when she wasn't the one who was dressed and pacing around the house whenever they were heading out. Heck, just today she had returned from the Senate session, taken a quick shower, changed into the gown they had picked out for her, obviously with Joe's input, and still she had managed to send out replies to over two dozen congratulatory messages on her ousting of the Jedi before they were ready to leave.

Still, as they entered the apartment, and she turned to look at Joe, Elayne could not help but smile, however long Joe had taken to get ready, it had been worth it. A sly smile, a gentle nudge, and a quick peck on her cheeks was her reward for openly gawking. "Shall we, Senator?"

Elayne smiled, and lead them into the suite. Her eyes immediately spotted the various dignitaries in attendance, and within moments she knew where to begin their mingling. Leading them towards a red-headed woman (@lizziie) talking to a dashing looking man who she recognized from the dossier her aide her prepared (@Altaris). "Ahh, Mr. Malik, pleasure to finally make your acquaintance. Prime Minister Belasi, you look lovely. Might I introduce my wife, Joséphine Fell." She gestured towards Joe, dressed in an elegant black dress meant to complement the silver that Elayne sported, an looking every bit as stunning as the first time Elayne had laid eyes on her. Joe smiled and nodded at the two of them, that smile making Elayne forget where she was for a moment. "Prime Minister, Mr. Malik, a pleasure to meet you both." That was when she got distracted by one of the Senators, dressed in all green for some reason, downing a glass of whiskey like it was a shot of some cheap ale. "What in tarnation is that man doing?" Her eyes darted from the bottle the whiskey had been poured from, and the green man, very obviously scandalized. "That's aged Deucalian whiskey, and he downed it like...." She paused, catching herself, realizing where they were and the likelihood that she had just openly insulted someone important. Of the two of them, it was Elayne who had the poker face, dear Joe more often than not wore her emotions on her sleeve. As they said, opposites attract.

"Forgive me. I..uh...I'll be right back." With that she darted off, Elayne smiling behind her as she realized her wife was about to corner Thorne and demand some of that whiskey, before trying to cajole information about his supplier from him. Elayne watched her wife leave and turned back to Belasi and Malik. "Sorry, but can't say I disagree."

Joe on the other hand made a beeline for Emryc, and came to a stop before the much taller man (@Sreeya). "That isn't a Deucalian reserve, is it?"

 

[Emryc Thorne]

Emryc glanced over when the Chancellor made an appearance, looking almost sheepish as he snuck into the crowd. The half Sephi gave him a half grin, actually briefly taking the bottle to pour the man a drink himself, “Could I perhaps entice you into a dance before the evening ends?” He clinked his glass against the Chancellor’s, “After all, I’ve seen you move quite elegantly with Senator Vaisra.” (@Mockingjay )

The half Sephi glanced up when Hergalor mentioned stepping away from the group. Emryc happily obliged, following the tall Ithorian. After all, he had little desire to part with the Deucalian bottle. He felt a comfortable buzz setting in already, and his body began to feel warm and fuzzy.

“Fisherman, eh?” He asked as he slowly sipped from his drink this time, “I caught myself the biggest Laa way out past the O-20 Outer rim quadrants. Bastard had to be over 30 pounds and I yanked him in with a janky bamboo rod with no reel,” He chuckled softly at the memory. He left out the bit where he had been blind and used Force Sight entirely to pull the stubborn fish in. Emryc sipped from his drink again, “If you’re ever out in Naboo, let me know and we’ll set up a trip.”

Emryc looked up when a woman approached them, eyebrows raising as the woman recognized the Deucalian symbols right away, “Color me impressed, my lady,” He said as he extended his hand to shake, doing the usual round of introductions before he poured her a generous amount of the whiskey. He clinked his glass against hers, grinning, “Your wife made me a very happy man at the Senate Session. And clearly she has remarkable taste to have found a woman of class and worldliness such as yourself,” Emryc engaged in small talk until she was distracted elsewhere.

The half Sephi turned back to the Ithorian, lips tugging at a smile when he mentioned his daughter being in the fan club. The fan club didn’t discriminate among members, and people from all walks of life and ages joined eagerly, “Of course,” He said, “What’s her name?” Emryc took his dataphone from him, scrolling through the contacts list till he found the right one. This was all done in full view of the Senator so he'd know exactly what Emryc was doing, “Screw selfie. We’re facetiming her.”

It took a few tries on account of Qidara finding her dad too lame to answer, but the girl finally answered, moodily staring at the camera. The sudden reaction was priceless as her eyes went completely wide. Emryc casually wrapped an arm loosely around Hergalor, “Hey there, Qidara,” His smooth baritone rumbled with the same intonation that was unmistakable from the Holos, “Want you to know that I’m a big fan of your dad over here,” Emryc stared into the camera with his infamous icy silvers, “He’s a pretty cool guy, so don't give him a hard time and finish all your homework and maybe we’ll meet someday. He told me all about how awesome you are so I just had to call you myself,” He finished with that brilliant, charming smile that splashed news articles all over the galaxy.

Quite satisfied with the exchange that no doubt made Qidara’s entire week and possibly caused her to faint, Emryc threw back his glass of whiskey. He focused his attention back to Hergalor, “As you know, a lot of ISC space is comprised of worlds that have a stronger agriculture industry than anything. As part of ISCRA, we have been transporting countless refugees to some of these planets. I think there is an opportunity here for ISCRA and TAC to pursue a joint venture,” He didn’t elaborate beyond that, first testing the waters to see if the man caught his drift.

@Wit @Fine Dining Set

 

[Cassian Graves]

Chancellor Emil Ro was not the only straggler to arrive late to the party, the Senator of Coruscant striding into the room in a silver floor length dress. The dress was nothing short of dazzling, sparkling as the overhead light reflected on its intricate beads. The Coruscanti Senator must have felt like a thousand credits after her proposal passed in a landslide today.

"Welcome," Cassian greeted, not bothered in the least that they were late. He was a firm advocate for come and go as you please parties. To be constricted to a set time frame wasn't really a party at all. He smiled at them both. "I'm so pleased you could make it." He would have congratulated the Senator on her success in the senate today, but now was not the time for more politics. Today had been nothing but politics. It was time to relax.

The Zeltron watched the newcomers join the others before retreating a few steps away from the crowd. He slipped his phone out of his suit pocket, swiping it open to check a few messages.

Spoiler: Message

Briefly, an uncharacteristically sullen expression passed over the Zeltron's face, a rare emotion he knew from past experience to be jealousy creeping at the edges of his mind. Recovering himself, his countenance shifted to that of the welcoming host with practiced ease as he cast a sidelong glance at the ISC President, off to one corner of the room with Senator Hergalor.

Spoiler: Message

The Zeltron smirked, his taut shoulders relaxing once more with relief. There was no need for concern, after all. Emojis weren't his style, but they made her happy. He shoved his phone back into his pocket and turned, nearly bumping into Kiacro.

"Kriff," Cassian muttered beneath his breath. "How many times have I told you not to do that?"

"I'm sorry," the Bivall apologized, though it was clear that he wasn't. "You didn't thank the President."

"What?"

"President Thorne," Bivall coached in a low voice. "He brought a gift, and you did not thank him."

"Oh," Cassian realized. "Remind me to send him a thank you card later."

Kiacro examined the Zeltron with a disapproving gaze but fell silent.

Cassian rejoined the festivities, retrieving a remote to change the music. "Would anyone like to dance? Feel free," he suggested to anyone interested enough to listen.

@Wit @Sreeya

 

[Hergalor]

Bring....Bring....Bring.... ​

Qidara sighed as her father called again. While the party raged on into the Onderonian evening, it was midday on a schoolday at the Taanabian Girls Arts Academy, the pricy preparatory school Hergalor sent all his children to. She stared out of the window of her classroom to the endless, jutting plains of the planet as her teacher continued to drone on about the finer points of Coruscanti neoclassical portraiture. She hated it here - it wasn't fair that her dad got to travel all over the galaxy for his lame job while she was stuck on the world.

She denied the call again when it rang. Hergalor was supposed to keep track of her class hours, even when he was off world; why was he bothering her. On the next call, the Ithorian girl had had enough. She sneakily put a pair of headphones into her ear-mouths and hid her phone from the teachers view as she answered. "What is it Dad," she whispered without glancing, "you know I'm in..." She looked back at the phone. Was that...no way No Way NO WAY "NO WAY OH MOTHER JUNGLE EEEEEEEEEEEEEH~" She howled to the rest of her classmates, summoning them to her phone. "LOOOKK LOOK LOOK I'M TOTALLY ON THE PHONE WITH EMRYC THORNE RIGHT NOW EEEEEEEH." Her classmates were skeptical, but they scurried over instantly to take a peak at her phone. Their teacher tried to regain order within the room, but it was drowned out by the excited screams of Qidara and her classmates. They clawed at her data phone, each hoping "OH MY GOD PRESIDENT THORNE I LO-"- Qidara ripped the phone back -"I'm ACTUALLY your BIGGEST FA-" The phone tumbled out of her hands to the floor amidst the clamor. While the rush of it all had made her miss most of Emryc's actual words of wisdom, she heard through her headphones what she figured was the most important part: Finish all your homework and maybe we’ll meet someday.

She swore she'd never ever miss another homework assignment again.

______________________​

Hergalor was impressed. Well, impressed was not quite the right word. Frankly, he was stunned at what had occurred. The mysterious glamour that Thorne seemed to cast over the galaxy made sense to him, just then. He was a charmer and had a versatile enough range to have actual conversations about topics outside of politics. It was a rare mix in politicians - a downright dangerous combination in the wrong hands. He always had the Ithorian's interest, but now he commanded his attention.

"I am speechless, President Thorne." He really was. He was always reluctant to expose his young daughters to politics; with the risks he took, the games he played, Hergalor much preferred them to be safely tucked away in their farmstead on Taanab. But, they always clamored for more - especially when it game to intergalactic pop sensation Emryc Thorne. "You've given my family a great gift. You must tell me that bamboo fishing story - I've got a similar one. Shipwrecked for two weeks in the middle of Mon Cala, dataphone destroyed, no one knows where I am. Caught a 15 pound striped gasfish with a line made from my trawler's engine cord. Used my own wedding ring as bait - the wriggly fuckers love shiny rocks." He laughed. "Just don't tell my wife that part."

"I would love to come to Naboo. And vice-versa; TAC has developed some real deep fishing holes on Taanab. You ever need an escape from the ISC, just give me a ring." He remained as jolly as the conversation turned to business. He poured Emryc another glass of whiskey. "I think you're right. TAC's portfolio has been growing lately. We're starting to look off world for new land development opportunities." The ISC would be a partner just as valuable as the Sith Empire, with the added bonuses of predictability and a less leather-and-spike-y fashion sense. "We could arrange to jointly develop land across the ISC's Outer Rim Holdings. Provide the refugees with some work."

He swirled his glass. He wasn't much of a philanthropist, of course; having a cheap, desperate population to work as farmhands for his agrocorporate handlers was a brilliant idea. They could do a PR blitz for the whole effort, too. He didn't want to get too ahead of himself, though. "Where have you been thinking? The Rimworlds are full of burgeoning family farms, but a lot of them can be...difficult to work with, in my experience." Peasant farms and homesteads were the bread and butter of the Outer Rim. Making those farms friendly to corporate interests was an entirely different matter. "I'm sure you have some degree of leverage, though." The President carefully managed his image - Hergalor imagined that Emryc could just ask farmers to give up their land, and they might be so obliged.

Cassian called the party to dance - he was a great host - and the change of music only served to heighten his mood. Were all Senate social outings such fun?

@Sreeya @llamallove

 

[Korre Belasi]

'Ah, a professor of history. I was spot on.' It would be nice, Korre thought, to have a partner interested in the same field of study as you. She assumed that was the reason Malik and Emryc got on so well or at the very least a part of it. Effie, though wonderful in more ways than one, had never cared much about Korre's studies. Oh well.

"Microbiology and biochemistry," Korre confirmed after the man said the two aloud. "I studied at Auden Belasi University of Senta before running for senator on Belasco. I spent about three-fourths of my time either in labs or in class." The woman paused to take a sip of her drink, pursing her lips slightly as she lowered the cup. 'Oh my, this is strong.'

"The other fourth I spent partying, for better or for worse," she added with a laugh after the drink was down. Korre then briefly turned her attention to Senator Isard and her wife and gave both a smile. "The pleasure is all mine; you both look lovely as well."

She turned back to Malik and continued their conversion. "What sort of history do you specialize in? I wouldn't call myself a history buff by any means but I'm quite fond of scientific history, go figure."

tags: @Altaris @Wit

 

[Sibyl Lassiter]

"I should thank you for that. If I stayed more time near Hergalor with his annoying translator and Hawthorne with his ridiculous clothes, I would probably jump through the window." Sibyl said to Jin, while they walked toward a small table full of drinks. While the Fondorian Prince was searching for something for them to drink, the Brentaalan was analyzing the bootles. She wasn’t impressed, in her opinion all of them were cheap. It seems that the rumors about the bankruptcy of the Onderon Royal Family are true. Poor Graves, his sugar mommy wasn't able to maintain his luxurious life. To sustain himself, he would need to do what the Zeltrons were made for. Sell themselves to the ones that could offer more.

Sibyl smiled at Jin, picking the glass of wine that he offered to her. She can understand why he was busy lately, with Emil being a rebellious dog and causing scandal after scandal, Vaisra probably was doing some sessions to train him and correct his errors. By this point, she had thought that Ro is too imbecile for someone to teach him any trick beyond what he knew by default.

"I understand. I was also busy these last few weeks." without Tristodd to work, her office barely could accomplish anything. There was a chaotic pile of paperwork that she still needed to sign up on her table. Only thinking about it made her want to groan.

Jin's comment made Sibyl laugh. "Although I would really appreciate a new stylist, the ISC offered Brentaal a better economy and safety against the Sith. Let's face it, many of the recent decisions Emil made were disastrous. Including his support for Starros' sanctions. Which you were also in favor of. I wonder how your mother reacted to it." the Brentaalan said, before sipping a bit of her wine. The Queen of Fondor would have been furious with these sanctions. But it's what people say, love leaves someone blind. Jin probably only supported these sanctions because of his love for Ro. This was why she never loved someone, it make you dumb.

"Beyond the benefits to my homeworld, as a Governor I have more influence than I had when I was a Senator. Did you know that as an ISC Governor I received authority over some planets on the Outer Rim? Now I have more autonomy and authority than I ever had." she said, looking directly into Jin's eyes. Sibyl really liked Vaisra, he was so much like her. The Brentaalan would not watch while the man destroyed his life due to his loyalty to the midget.

"Didn’t you ever think about it? Having influence beyond Fondor, no longer being limited by the shadow of your mother. Having your own systems where you could prosper in the way that you want, without her to say what you should do." she whispered to him. Sibyl knew that Jin was ambitious and the ISC could satisfy it. So far Emil didn't give him anything beyond scraps. He is really a bad dog. Rather than bringing the whole prey for his master, he eats most of it and gives the remains to him.

The change in his voice made Sibyl smile "Oh Jin, how I missed you! Fear not, I don’t plan to disrupt your economy." unless Fondor does something that requires this answer, of course. "It would be terrible for the economy of everyone if it happened."

Sibyl turned to look at the crowd and saw that Isard had arrived. It was depressing to see a beautiful dress being used by such a creature. The Brentaalan always thought that Isard should use some fur, it would turn her into the perfect bantha, because she already has the face of one. Walking after her, like a good and obedient pet, was the stooge that was her wife.

Who also had arrived was Emil. He was so small if compared to who was around him that Sibyl thought he was a teen. He seemed to be sad, like a dog that can't find his master. She wondered if Jin would soon ran toward him and give the puppy a treat.

@Song

 

[Phineas Hawthorne]

Phineas chuckled after Hergalor's comment. "What can I say? I've never been too afraid of alcohol." Then a lady that had entered in was wondering why he shot down the entire drink of whiskey, "Oh, I'm just as surprised as you are. I honestly thought my heart would stop." Then, he flicked his wrist, tossing the glass in the air with a few twirls before Phineas snatched it out of the air. "Huh...Not even that drunk..." He said as he examined the glass for a bit and then set it down on the table he grabbed it from.

Everyone was talking with someone else right now. Hergalor was with Emryc, Korre with Altair, Sibyl with Jin. Cassian was offering to dance, but Phineas wasn't sure how socially acceptable it would've been for him to dance with Cassian- he would've loved to, but Phin just wasn't sure yet. The Zeltron was still an amazing host, nonetheless.

Phineas decided to take a seat to take some time to reflect, briefly anyway. He wanted to make an effort with Emryc Thorne, but he didn't want to intrude on Hergalor time with him. Guilt still ripped and teared at him and he felt like he was being choked out the more he thought about his incident in the senate meeting so he quickly undid his tie, shoved it in his pocket, and unbuttoned the top button of his black button-up long sleeve. He sighed, Infinitely better. He wasn't sure how much he liked the tie anyway.

 

[Jaikus Thorne]

Jaikus raised his glass a bit, smirking when Korre confirmed his guess. The Axxilan followed politics closely enough, and had naturally done his research on the Belascan at one point or another since her elevation to the Prime Ministership. “A scientist and politican – very impressive indeed. I fear the sciences have never been my strong suit.” He admitted, chuckling softly. “University of Chandrila, myself. History and political science.”

Emerald eyes flicked over to Elayne and her wife when they approached greeting the two women with a smile and bow of his head. “Senator Isard, Ms. Fell – it is a pleasure to meet you both. You both look stunning tonight.” He gestured to the two finely-dressed women. “Ah, and I must congratulate you on your performance in the Senate tonight – I was very pleased to see your proposal passed.” He tipped his glass towards Elyane. He watched as Josephine quickly darted off, emerald eyes drifting in that direction.

His gaze lingered on Emryc and Hergalor for a few moments more, catching sight of the entire adorable exchange between the half-Sephi and the Ithorian’s daughter. There was something undeniably sweet about seeing the half-Sephi go out of his way to make the girls entire week, and Jaikus couldn’t help but flash one of those ridiculous, dorky smiles towards his partner.

It was impossible to mask the genuine warmth and giddiness that bled through his expression, on full display for Elayne and Korre. Even from a distance, it was something Emryc would clearly see if he looked in the Axxilan’s direction. Warm emeralds lingered on his partner for a few seconds more before flicking back to Korre.

With that, Jaikus finally returning to their conversation. “I specialize in ancient civilizations, specifically.” He gave a nod, swirling his glass a bit before taking another sip. “If you are interested in scientific history, I am sure there are several exhibits at the Institute that would interest you. If you are ever on Chandrila, it would be my pleasure to give you a tour.” He briefly glanced towards the dancefloor, listening as the music changed and Cassian made his announcement – watching to see who would make their way onto the floor. He eventually flicked his gaze back to Korre, dipping low and extending a hand out towards her. “Would you do me the honor of a dance, my lady?”

@Sreeya @llamallove @Charles @Fine Dining Set @Song @Mockingjay

 

[Emryc Thorne]

Emryc was thoroughly amused by the daughter's reaction, and he simply gave Hergalor a smug smile when he thanked him. His gaze briefly flicked over to Jaikus, catching him looking right at him. There was a tenderness in the other man's eyes and smile that revealed that he heard the exchange. In turn, Emryc had a slightly stupid look on his face, appearing a bit dazed as he stared back at his partner, lifting his drink to his lips and promptly missing it the first time. Hergalor, a seasoned man with a loving wife, would recognize that fond look exchange all too well. Emryc quickly turned his attention back to the Ithorian before redness could rise to his face.

“Don’t tell your wife what?” His brows rose slightly as he grinned, “That her wedding ring, and by extension she herself, allowed you to eat and saved your life in your greatest time of need?” He said smoothly, completely spinning the story around. Emryc took a sip of his drink and recalled his own story as requested by Hergalor.

“I built the boat I was in myself, and it was not the least bit impressive,” He began, “I had my very basic bamboo pole and line with some pieces of bread for bait. I’m there to catch my usual See, which you know are miniscule. I’ve got my bucket, prepared to load it up with at least ten of them,” He sipped from his whiskey again, “I finally hook one and pull him in and then this giant monster of a Laa just comes out of nowhere and gobbles the See! Now I’d been there for hours without any bites and my first thought was I didn’t want to let go of the See. I had no idea I was battling a Laa when I wrestled it,” He shook his head, thinking back to the memory, “The bastard was fast, made me completely eat it on the edge of the boat. My nose was bloody, lip was split open, but I wasn’t about to let him get away. He was pulling my boat with him, and I barely held on,” He was grinning now, “Took me almost an hour to wear him out and I’m amazed he didn’t snap the line. Definitely made a spectacle of myself though..”

It was clear Emryc had fond memories of that village. His mind wandered back to the little girl that completely adored him. She was sobbing the day he left and he had pointedly avoided thinking of her since. Emryc cleared his throat, throwing the rest of his drink back. He was silent as Hergalor responded to his lowkey proposal, mainly watching the alien for his body language. Though Emryc couldn’t read it as well as he could humans, he was perceptive by nature.

“Certainly a good deal of leverage,” He said quietly, “TAC can carve out the land and set up operations and ISCRA can supply the labor hands. You and I can then decide on the profit margin share from the produce. ISC has existing trade channels, but with this joint endeavor, we can expand the supply chain to cover routes back into Alliance and Republic territory.”

The half Sephi knew he wouldn’t have to delve further to imply that he absolutely intended to make money off refugees. While a lot of that would be feeding back into the ISC, it would certainly line his pockets as well.

@Fine Dining Set @Altaris

 

[Lon Tendree]

The party was still only getting warmed up as Senator Tendree arrived. As usual, he wasn't the most striking of those gathered and he didn't draw the eye of everyone as some of the others did, but he was ever-present and knew well the ebb and flow of politics. Other stars would burn brighter and burn out, but Lon Tendree would remain forever.

He gave greeting to several of the partygoers as he made his way through, diet cola in hand. He didn't care for other's opinions of his habits, but that didn't mean he didn't care about their thoughts on any topic.

In particular, he honed in on one governor of Brentaal who he had been meaning to have words with for some time. Her decision to leave the Republic - the topic of the conversation between she and the Senator from Fondor - was of particular interest to him for a variety of reasons.

Good evening Senator. Governor, he said, nodding his head slightly to each of them in turn.

How has life in the Consortium been treating you, Governor Lassiter? he asked. Perhaps he should have given more pretense to his inquiry, but this was small talk for all intents and purposes.

@LouJoVi @Song

 

[Hergalor]

Hergalor caught the sheepish glances between Jaikus and Emryc, offering a low chuckle himself as an observation. Thorne's cheeks reddened, ever so slightly; a sign of embarrassment and amusement amongst the near-humans. Hergalor suspected Thorne felt a little of both; joy at having his love proudly by his side, and the slightest tinge of embarrassment that his ever-cool facade seemed to melt away around this man. "That's how it starts, you know." He patted Emryc on the back, thinking fondly about his own family. He reminisced his own younger days, back when he and his own love had first met. He thought of all the parties, the dances, the shared glances; even in a party full of the most important people in the galaxy, it always felt like you were the only two in the room.

It helped Hergalor to think about his own priorities. He really only cared about them: His wife, his children. Perhaps, it was time to consider bringing them along with him to a Senatorial gathering. Hergalor missed them so when he travelled. As his mind began to wander with thoughts of home, Emryc's larger-than-life fishing story helped to reel the Ithorian back down to Onderon. "You're saying you weren't even trying to catch this Laa? Now we have to go out on the water together; you can be my good luck charm! The sea's odd like that sometimes, you know? Out all day, not even a nibble, and when you're about to call it quits, the catch of your life. It's what I love about it. No two days are ever the same - it's always feast or famine." It's what he liked about this job, too. TAC could go months any new movement in any direction, and then....boom. The ISC President wanted to do business. It was a beautiful thing.

He continued to sip his whiskey through his two-pronged straw as Thorne began to detail the proposal. The unspoken was obvious to the both of them - profit off of the refugee crisis, and make themselves seem like heroes in the meantime. "I think that's a grand idea, Thorne. The Mid Rim market is in need of a new grains supplier, and I'm sure your worlds would appreciate the absolute food sovereignty that in-sector farms provide. The ISC has long deserved a mega-agroworld in its planetary profile. I'm honored that you'd think of TAC to help elevate your government's profile." The specifics of ownership and profit sharing could likely being ironed out by their aides at a future date, but Hergalor couldn't lie and say that he wasn't excited. He could imagine the headlines now: Taanab and ISC invest in refugee futures, end galactic hunger. Of course, with a tidy profit for the both of the both them to walk home with. He raised his glass. "To new business ventures." A little stale, maybe. "And to taking back the galaxy from those atrocious fucking core worlders." That one felt better.

@Sreeya @Altaris

 

[Jin Vaisra]

Influence. Autonomy. The words struck a chord, like music to his ears, and Jin couldn’t deny the pull he felt toward them. Sibyl had a point. The Consortium could grant him not only a more stable position in galactic politics, but also a chance to flex new power in his role, perhaps enough to strong-arm his mother, the Jade Queen, into submission. Forget royalty. He could have real, tangible power and wealth and freedom. Trading with the Sith could even become an option—a lucrative one, too.

He gave himself an internal shake. But what about Emil?

“You make quite a compelling case, Governor. No wonder you left the Republic. But unlike you, when I make an investment, I see it through.” The Chancellor, the Scepter Armada, the Sector Rangers. If Jin left, he’d have to start back at square one, and with strangers he hardly knew. “I’ll consider your proposition, Sibyl, but consider mine as well—if you hurt Fondor in any way, I will pick your trading empire apart brick by brick until all that’s left of your mansion is the carpeting. Then, I’ll take that too.”

He said this in a low whisper, enough to where no others—even those closest to them—could hear, until his eyes caught the Senator of Cato Neimoidia nearby, a diet cola in hand. Jin, used to throwing on a mask, welcomed the merchant with a smile. “Senator Tendree, it’s nice to see you.” He bobbed his head politely, but as the man devolved into pleasantries with Sibyl, Jin took a step back, finished with their talk. “Sorry, Senators. If you might excuse me, I have a dance to catch.”

He toasted his glass to Sibyl, knowing they would be in touch another day to amend their alliance, and disappeared into the crowd of guests. Jin might have made a beeline to Emil, but the last thing he wanted was to fuel more unfounded rumors about their relationship. Besides, he was tired of the crusty brat. Instead he made his way to Cassian, alone with his adviser, and offered the Zeltron his hand. “Come. Dance with me,” he said, although it sounded less like a request and more like a demand.

@LouJoVi @Phoenix @llamallove

 

[Korre Belasi]

"History and political science?" Well, that solved that mystery. Whether she was right or way off, Korre didn't think it was too far-fetched to assume that Malik and Emryc had met through something political and then hit it off from a shared love of history. 'That could just be a coincidence.' It was none of her business, of course. She was just musing.

'Ancient history? Man, that could be anything.' Korre would go forward with the assumption he either meant the ancient history of Chandrila or a broad scope of the galaxy's ancient history.

"I don't find myself in the Core Worlds very often, but if I happen by I will one-hundred percent take you up on that offer. I've not yet been to the Institue and I would love to see it," responded Korre. Cassian then made his announcement, and with it changed the music. The ambient music spiced up to something much more suitable to dance to. Malik certainly had the same thought as she; when he turned to extend his hand out to her, he would see that twinkle of interest in her eye spark before she turned to face him. 'My lady?' Those words reminded her of her youth, back when she was nothing more than a princess on Belasco. A lot had changed since then.

"Of course!" Korre reached out her own hand to grasp his, then turned and led him towards the dancefloor which had been vacated by the guests not intending to dance. She released his hand and began to cha-cha to the music, grinning ear-to-ear as her body moved in rhythm to the upbeat music.

tags: @Altaris @Wit

 

[Emil Ro]

Careful not to choke on all that envious spittle flying from your neck flaps, Hergalor, Emil thought after... how many shots had he had? He wasn't kidding when he said he needed something strong. But where drunkenness made some weep with unburdened emotions, some drag their partners to the nearest bedroom, and yet others slur about like an idiot, the drink had the effect of loosening Emil's tongue. Considerably. When Ithor can contribute more than a few fucking plants to Telos restoration, you can regale us with the sins of the Core worlders who front most of the bills around here.

Sober Emil would have known that Hergalor was not the senator of Ithor, but the senator of Tannab. Tipsy Emil was just lucky that the words had stayed in his head and not vomited out, where it might be picked up on one or several dozen HoloNet news channels.

He eyed Emryc, probably the only man in the room he didn't harbor the will to offend tonight. Not because of the man's popularity, which was cosiderable, but because he respected what the President had built. The Outer Rim was not an easy beast to tame. The Empire had tried and failed utterly. The Confederacy, before them, had also tried, and look how that had turned out. That the Consortium had managed to forge itself into a considerable economic and political force was a testament to the man's ingenuity. It was no wonder he was able to score such a strapping young man for a partner. All Emil had managed was Jin.

Whatever that was.

"President Thorne," he interjected. "I hope I'm not interrupting. We've not had much chance to chat since Naboo, I believe. Too long." And this was the other part. Loosening the tongue meant gaining nerve he otherwise didn't have. Sober Emil would never be asking the President of the fucking Consortium to dance. He was at least a foot shorter than the man. Maybe more, and Emryc had a much better looking man to dance with all night than him, anyways. But alcohol had a way of shushing all those voices in his head and convincing him, if he asked in just the right way, he might have a chance.

So, he did just that, holding out his hand dramatically and moulding the putty that was his face into the nearest approximation of a smile. Sober Emil was going to hate Tipsy Emil in the morning in this blew up in his face. "Might I interest you in a dance?" @Sreeya @Fine Dining Set @Altaris

 

[Cassian Graves]

"Good evening," Cassian greeted Lon Tendree, the Senator of Cato Neimoidia. "So glad you could make it." The Zeltron must have uttered those words fifteen times over the course of the evening. He'd already lost count and was beginning to tire of the utterance, but Kiacro would never let him hear the end of it if he did not greet every single guest that walked through those doors.

His gaze followed the Neimoidian across the room, relieved that the senator sought the company of other core worlders. That, at least, was some small comfort.

"I do wish the Princess had been able to attend this evening," Kiacro sighed quietly.

Cassian rolled his eyes, wondering how he'd become entangled in conversation with his aide in the middle of a party. He usually avoided it at all costs. The Zeltron did not like being told what to do, and the Bivall had a knack for doing exactly that. "What are you talking about? Everyone's having a great time."

Glancing at the Chancellor, he chuckled to himself. Some more than others...

"Just because you don't know how to cut loose and have a good time doesn't mean—" Before Cassian could finish that sentence, his eyes fell on Jin Vaisra. The man had appeared out of nowhere without so much as a sound, and Cassian had to wonder if that comparison to a cat was more accurate than he had realized. His lips curled upward into a smile. Or a snake.

The Zeltron nodded his head, indicating his acceptance, but he did not take the man's hand. "Nothing would please me more." This time, his smile was genuine because they both knew he was lying. There was no use pretending. "But the tempo is rather fast paced. I hope you can keep up."

@Phoenix @Song

 

[Sibyl Lassiter]

Sibyl smiled while she watched Jin think about what she had said. The Brentaalan could see that he was really interested in it. However, his answer was disappointing. "Jin, it's precisely because I see it through that I decided that it would no longer be viable to invest in the New Republic. Be sincere, Emil's rule is disastrous. He promised to end the economic crisis, but the first thing that he did was to make it worse!" the Brentaalan wondered if what the Fondorian really saw through was Ro's pants.

Vaisra's treat barely impressed Sibyl. It made the Fondorian prince look like a small spoiled child. Knowing him, the woman could say that he was exactly that "Differently from you, I still consider you a friend. I have no plans to destroy your economy." after all, before targeting Fondor's economy, the Governor would hire someone to kill Vaisra. She knew how a threat he would be alive, so his death would be the first step before she wanted to cause the ruin of Fondor. And would be lovely to see Ro lost without his Master.

Then Senator Tendree approached them. The Neimoidian was ridiculous drinking this diet cola. He looked like an obese person that thinks that only by drinking it, he would lose weight. "Senator Tendree, it’s a pleasure to see you tonight!" she said, a fake smile on her lips.

When Vaisra said that he was going to dance, Sibyl turned to him. She wondered if the man was going to run and give a bit of love to his dog. Emil looked ridiculous in the corner, licking his wounds. Now he seemed to be asking Emryc to dance. Sibyl smirked at this. It would be a bizarre scene. The dwarf dancing with the giant! Now she was sad for Dongwa not being there, she would have asked him to record it, so she could watch it at home and laugh a bit.

Although, with how Hergalor seemed to be acting as a fangirl, she doubted that the Ithorian would allow Thorne to walk away. Perhaps the three will dance together. Emil would need to careful to not be crushed by them. "I loved to talk with you, Jin. I hope that we can do it again in another time."

Turning to the Neimoidian, Sibyl smiled. "It has been wonderful, Senator! Brentaal is prospering with a stable economy, unlike the chaotic state where the Republic found itself." she knew perfectly well how the Neimoidians were ambitious, this would probably attract his interest. " I also have more influence than I had as a Senator. Did you know that the ISC Governor's receive influence over several planets in the Outer Rim? We need to make them thrive and it opens opportunities for several new investments."

@Song @Phoenix

 

[Lon Tendree]

Thank you for having us, he said in response to their host, who looked as though he was perhaps growing weary of greeting everyone who attended by name. It sounded positively exhausting, and yet it was part of the way of things in their world.

Polite greetings were exchanged between the Neimoidian and the Senator of Fondor before the latter took his leave.

Not at all, enjoy, he said as Jin slipped away to dance with someone. Lon's eyes didn't linger for long on where he went as he turned his attention back to Sibyl. It was no secret that he and his people were more interested in themselves than most of the rest of the galaxy, and as of late there were many who were quite unhappy with the war that was being stirred up further. The Sith were undoubtedly partially to blame, but the issue had been exacerbated by the New Republic.

Very interesting indeed, he said thoughtfully as she mentioned that she also had some form of protectorate power over planets in the Outer Rim.

And has your relative isolation within the Core hurt your economy at all? Do you worry what will happen if - heaven forbid - relations between the ISC and Republic deteriorate? he asked, not an accusation at all but simply something he had worried about should his people choose to follow suit with some of those who had already... defected wasn't really the right word, but it was close enough.

Or perhaps you'd prefer not to talk such business at a party? he offered, giving an out should she opt to take the conversation in a different direction.

@LouJoVi @Song @llamallove

 

[Sibyl Lassiter]

After she finished explaining the benefits of being an ISC Governor, Sibyl could see that Lon seemed to be interested. The question that the Neimoidian had asked to her made the Governor be nearly certain that the Senator of Cato Neimoidian was testing the waters, wanting to see if the change of allegiances would be something safe to be made.

She didn’t expect anything less from a Neimoidian. Most of the people in the Galaxy call them cowards, afraid of taking risks. Sibyl was certain that if the Sith Empress appeared with a fleet over Neimoidia and its colonies, they would throw themselves to her mercy and beg for their lives. The Governor can't say much, she would do the same. Neimoidians were cowards, yes. But, there were some shades of cleverness on it.

"I'll not lie, we had some small economic problems due to the transition. However, with the help of the ISC, these problems were already solved. Differently from the ongoing crisis that the New Republic is going through. These sanctions were slowly killing Brentaal and the decline of the Credit continues." she sipped a bit of her wine. The only bad part of this help was the great amount of documents that she ended up needing to sign.

"Yes, being alone at the Core is dangerous if a conflict between the two starts. However, it’s a speculation. There is a real conflict happening there, between the NR and the Sith. It was a war that we didn't vote to join so abruptly. Remember that it was the Chancellor alone who decided to bombard Denon." she stopped to sip more of her drink and allowed the Neimoidian to digest what she was saying. "The ISC also gave us neutrality in this conflict. After what happened in Firrerre, with how subtly the Sith attacked, we don’t want to suffer the same fate. Seeing how poorly the New Republic fleet acted trying to secure Denon, the people of Brentaal didn't feel safe. I think that Cato-Neimoidia and other Neimoidian planets must feel the same way, right? Both being rich planets would be prizes for the Sith." she said, trying to entice the famous Neimoidian cowardice.

"Due to that, I'm not afraid of a conflict between the NR and the ISC. The Republic is already going to fight the Sith. Even if the Chancellor cut ties with the Jedi, I don’t believe that the Sith would be so forgiving due to what happened at Denon. In this war, the NR will be alone. The relations with the FWA aren't good and due to recent developments, I don’t believe that the Jedi will be of much help. A war of two fronts is something that the Republic can afford." she explained to him her point of view. Now the Sith Empire was a greater threat to the Republic than the ISC. She doubted that Emil was crazy enough to start s conflict with the ISC so soon.

"Senator, if you were interested in knowing more about that, perhaps you could visit someday to drink a bit of tea. Perhaps I could invite some friends that would explain more about this topic to you. What do you think?" Sibyl smiled at the Neimoidian. Perhaps a meeting with Galek would make him interested in joining the ISC.

@Phoenix

 

[Emryc Thorne]

Emryc simply grinned as Hergalor clapped him on the back, “Then I hope it never ends,” He blurted out whimsically before he could stop himself. It was clear the alcohol was definitely strong and impacting him. Not even a man of his size and composure was immune to the effects of a stiff Deucalian drink. This had the ability to sneak up on anyone, and even the large Ithorian would find himself feeling happier than he ought to be right then.

“I don’t like surprises!” Emryc said with a grin, “I was out for a See, I wanted my damn See. I am a simple man that likes simple routines,” He shrugged. Contrary to popular belief, this was actually true. He still lived in the same ship he had lived in since his early teens. His eating habits were still largely the same as they were when he was a child on the space station. It was clear opposite of what Hergalor found thrilling, but it was their difference that made their interactions enjoyable, “But I will certainly join you if for no other reason than to see you get creative in how you do fishing.”

The TAC and ISCRA venture was more or less a done deal, but their aides would draft up the logistics. There was no doubt Holonet would be buzzing with news about it soon. Emryc clinked his glass against Hergalor’s, “Careful, the Core may become dangerous when they’ve got nothing left to lose,” Emryc tossed back his drink, looking ahead at the Chancellor making a beeline for them. From his glazed over eyes it was clear that the man was beyond a little buzzed, “Speak of the devil..”

The half Sephi glanced down at the Chancellor, amusement dancing in his eyes at spotting the bleary eyed look and the attempt of a smile that looked more like acid reflux. He vaguely wondered if the tabloids were going to report on this, “I thought you’d never ask,” His baritone roiled smoothly. Before he took the man’s hand, he unbuttoned and took off his suit jacket, neatly folding it to hand to an attendant. He was left in a dress shirt that complimented his muscled form and tie, and Emryc rolled up and cuffed his sleeves. He looked over at Hergalor, patting him on the shoulder, “I will find you again before the evening ends, my friend. Do try and share the last bits of that whiskey,” He gave him a wink before looking back at the Chancellor.

The music had changed to a quick paced dance and Emryc knew to adjust. He allowed Emil to lead him to the middle of the floor, but he effortlessly tugged the smaller man close, snaking an arm around his lower back. For all the ways he was built like a bulk freighter, Emryc certainly knew how to command the dance floor. He began with a series of sweeping forward steps that cut a path across the floor, shortly before spinning them both around. Emil would feel as if he were skating across the surface, Emryc’s body loose and fluid with the rhythm of the dance.

As was his habit, the half Sephi only focused on his dance partner during a dance, the rest of the room all but melting away and irrelevant. He was thoroughly entertained by Emil’s slightly drunken appearance, but he kept the man fluid enough to spin him around to hurl in the opposite direction if he began to look queasy. Emryc twirled Emil around and dropped him into a side dip, resting him across a knee before quickly snapping him up again and spinning him out so he faced across him with their hands locked.

Emryc tilted his head, silver gaze meeting the other man’s, “Perhaps not as scandalous as your adventures at discreet clubs, but hopefully enjoyable nonetheless,” He grinned at the other man with the quip, referring back to the tabloid explosion over his club appearance. Emryc tugged the man close again after the quip, ready to continue the dance.

@Fine Dining Set @Mockingjay