Open Social Jewel Of The Desert

[Trodai Narat-iv-Adas]

Trodai gave a curt nod as Trael took the sword, and thanked him for the gift. He did the same for Caerllion, noting how Ayomi dragged him off for some reason or other. It was not of his concern. Instead, he spoke a little more as he passed it over...this was going to be hard but it was probably for the best. He swallowed his pride.

"It is no trouble, I know you will look after it and hope you put it to good use to protect those who matter most." He said knowing Trael would know to whom he was suggesting. "I know I have been difficult with you before, but I hope tonight we can change that."

He left it at that, turning to catch Vossari coming up. His style reminded him of how those in his mother's house looked. The aesthetic was very similar. Of course he had to be here though, his eye stalks twitched almost on instinct, as a brief memory of the gala flashed past his mind. As he was reminded of his foolishness. As he was given the cold shoulder he simply ignored it. If that was how it was to be, so be it. He would afford the same courtesy and ignore him. He would not be the one to cause drama tonight.

As Azar went for a dance, he couldn't help but be mesmerized briefly. It was exotic and intoxicating all in one. It reminded him of Nar Shadda and yet so much better. Oh how he could move, how he loved seeing him in all his glory. Smiling and enjoying himself. He loved Azar and seeing him like that, dancing as he was. He couldn't resist the urge to join. At least while he hopefully could if his partners didn't first. In which case he would wait, he would not have another incident on his account.

Moving to the dance floor, Trodai smiled as he approached Azar and spoke. Offering a curt bow and a hand. He hoped none interrupted, just to make sure he kept his senses acutely aware in the Force for any mischief. He wasn't about to let someone ruin this moment. Not like had happened to some in the past.

"Might I have this dance my king? While time permits it."

If there was no objections he would begin to dance in a similar fashion, enjoying the moment as he danced using a very traditional Korribani dance.

@Sreeya @LouJoVi @René @Javier esschoolbus @Fine Dining Set

 

[Ayomi Jakarta]

Caer's smile was disarming, almost bringing back that giddy feeling from their previous meeting back into Ayomi's gut. Almost. They couldn't shake the feeling that something wasn't quite right, even as the Annfyn told them otherwise with a straight face and led them away from the center of the party. Yet, this was the perfect opportunity to give him the gift they'd spent so long constructing.

As Caer turned to face them again, Ayomi reached into their suit jacket and reached for the hilt just in time for the man to start explaining himself. Oh. They guessed it could wait, Caer's explanation was more important than some stupid gift they'd spent weeks building him anyways.

The explanation started with the climate, which was admittedly hot but far more tempered inside Arcanos' palace than out in the barren sands of the desert. Not to mention Caer was a sorcerer on the level of a Sith Master regardless of the fact that the title just became official; surely he knew a spell or even a simple application of the Force to cool his body temperature?

Ayomi found his next comment far more convincing at face value. Caer had told them his mother had been killed, so it came as no surprise that he might mark her birthday with some sadness. Genuine sadness, it appeared. Suddenly, it all made sense; the tenseness, being overwhelmed by the intensity of it all. Ayomi could relate, as the Annfyn knew well from their first interaction all that time ago.

But then it started making too much sense.

If Caer was some nobody civilian, the Tiefling would've believed in an instant his elaboration about needing to face the pain on his own. But this wasn't fresh pain, was it? The Annfyn had given no indication before that his mother's assassination had been recent, and had only approached the topic with the calculated tone of someone seeking revenge. The tone of a Sith. And Sith, at the end of the day, cared for one person above everyone else. Themselves. Ayomi had learned that the hard way, and Caerllion had been around much longer than they had.

Overwhelmed they could believe. But drowning in sorrow? If he was going to make excuses, the raven haired man should've quit while he was ahead.

Even his faint touch felt oddly distant, with none of the passion and heart that it had held before. "You understand, right?" Caer's words echoed in the Tiefling's head. A couple years ago, they might've fallen for that comment hook, line, and sinker. But those three words meant one thing: manipulation. They were words you said to someone you love, they were words you told someone to coax them into trusting you.

Caer wasn't just making excuses. He was actively lying, and trying to hide it; and he almost had.

Ayomi barely listened as he apologized and rushed away, sounding so cheesy as he did. "I need to deal with the pain." He sounded like an actor on one of those shitty Holonet shows, not the thoughtful and open person they'd talked to on G'wenee. It felt so theatric.

Ayomi wasn't sure if they should laugh, cry, or lash out in anger. What had transpired to change Caer's mind they didn't know, but they were nearly certain something had. Perhaps this was the real Caerllion, and everything before had just been the ruse. Which one hurt more, the Tiefling couldn't tell. Only one thing was clear.

They'd been stupid enough to believe anyone could actually love them.

Red eyes shifted to hateful yellow as Ayomi turned to watch Caerllion walk back towards the crowd. "If you're going to play with my feelings, at least OWN UP TO IT!" they shouted after the fleeing Annfyn. "Don't lie to my face like a fucking COWARD."

@LouJoVi @partygoers

 

[Vander]

Vander was going to count it all as being a win. No one was mad at him, no toes were stepped on, and he was able to melt back into the crowd where no one was going to... oh wait, no.

It seemed that Limmerick (@Apollyon) had decided he needed more attention, which was a minefield in and of itself probably.

Still, Vander took the offered glass and swirled the liquid within before fixing his attention on the Sephi.

I'm not a complete barbarian, he quipped. You, on the other hand, seem quite at home in these sorts of events, he said. Vander, on the other hand, was probably never going to feel at home somewhere like this. It was far too much... people. Important? Unfortunately, but not what he would ever find himself loving. Well... maybe if he made Sith Lord and everyone had to suck up to him, but that probably got old too.

Another woman wandered up followed by Arcanos's speech, and Vander joined in the applause for the new Masters. He wondered what would become of them. They had moved up the ladder, and the further up that way you went, it opened up a world of possibilities. It also put one big old target on your back.

He pulled his mind from those thoughts as more people began to make their way through the doors, a mixture of faces he mostly didn't know.

As Limmerick turned to the newcomers as well and engaged with the passing woman about outfits, Vander began his typical moving through the crowds, setting his drink on the tray of a passing server droid.

After a few moments more he practically appeared next to Zira (@Sreeya).

You look lovely, Zira, he complimented. Hopefully this event goes smoother than our last, he said, the faintest thing that could have almost been a smile at the corner of his mouth. Coming over here was a win-win because he had the opportunity to visit with Zira a bit and also got out of the main stream of the crowd that was already starting to heat up.

Arcanos was burning down the dance floor already, but Vander's attention was quickly drawn away by screaming coming from another tiefling across the way. Screaming directed at one of those guests of honor.

Bit... early in the evening for that, seems like, he commented. You know, as he stood over here he realized that it really was the best place to just learn about the people. He had no doubt that Zira saw all sorts of things. He had no doubt that was part of the reason that she was brought to these events. He lied to himself that that was the only reason. For now he lied because he had to.

 

[Iymril]

​

Iymril’s ears flitted in amusement at Corax’s response. Their eyes twinkled with joy. Corax was right, they were at home in these sort of events. It was almost like a second nature to them. (@Phoenix)

“Yes, and if we’re lucky soon there will be a sho-”

As if on cue, the recently promoted Sith Master left the building, with tears in his eyes. Tears! How delightful! It was as if the universe and Force itself confirmed what Iymril had always known, Sephi were the superior species. Anfynn were just a poor genetic deviation of an already perfect people.

But just when they thought it couldn’t get any better, a feminine voice yelled at the Anfynn. A lover’s quarrel? At the beginning of the party? What a perfect start to the evening! Iym’s eyes flitted to the Tiefling’s face and the sipped from their wine, excited to see what else would occur.

“You see this is what is was sa-”

Iymril’s words were interrupted as they turned back to speak with Corax. But the man was gone. Iym blinked twice in surprise before they glanced around. It wouldn’t take long for the Sephi’s keen eyes to pick out where the other Sith had went. To Zira.

Their jaw tightened slightly. Their ears dipped back towards the sides of their head. But their expression and gaze betrayed none of the irritation that flared within them. Not because Corax had left to speak with another. But because he had abandoned them to speak with a slave. Their slave.

Iymril allowed their eyes to bear down in Zira for a few more seconds before they took a sip from their wine. There would be a price to pay for drawing the attention from them. But how much that toll would be entirely depended on how she handled the situation.

In the meantime, Iymril’s eyes pulled from the pair. They wouldn’t allow some bleeding heart and slave to ruin the evening for them. That could all be addressed later. For now, they sipped their wine and moved towards the dance floor. They watched Arcanos (@Sreeya) as they put on a show for the gathering crowd.

Perhaps a dance would clear the air.

@LouJoVi @René

 

[Trael Osso]

The two lovers soon moved out of his ear shot. Trael let out a low sigh. It’s was just getting interesting. He waved over one of the grotthu, taking a drink from their platter and telling them to keep the box safe for him. He watched as they sauntered away until his gaze was diverted by something else. Azar was making his way to the dance floor. Trael watched as his man danced and swayed to the music, mesmerized by it.

He watched the dance curiously, not being overly familiar with it. He debated going to dance with Azar but the gala flashed in his memory, he refused to be covered in another drink by Vossari. So he turned to Voss (@Fine Dining Set), “You can have the first dance. I’d rather not ruin this outfit with any accidental spillage.” He said before returning to watching Azar dancing.

His gaze scanned over the crowd. He knew the likelihood of a Sith event turning violent or worse fatal. He noticed a couple Sith mingling with others and amongst themselves but none seemed to be at the point of fighting. His gaze went back to Azar seeing if he was freed from the likely dance with Voss. To his dismay he instead spotted Trodai stealing away a dance. He let out a sigh, he would remain composed for now. There should be ample opportunity for him to get a dance.

That’s when he heard the shouting. He perked up slightly, that usually meant a fight. His gaze scanned to find it was coming from Ayomi and she was yelling at Caer who was, crying? What happened between them? He didn’t need to question to much it seemed that would be aired out by Ayomi here and now.

@LouJoVi @René

 

[Zira Suvan]

Zira found all of this fascinating to behold. She was especially pleased that her master all but forgot about her, which meant she could relax and enjoy the party from where she stood. Sith were strange creatures, but they always commanded a presence. She listened as Arcanos gave his speech, though her keen observation drew her attention to the Annfyn and tiefling that exchanged words. Her gaze flicked over to Iymril to see if they needed anything, catching at once how they appeared to fancy Corax. It was rare to see the Sephi take a liking to someone like that, but it kept them entertained for now.

The tiefling occupied herself by watching Arcanos’ dazzling performance as he moved his hips in ways even she doubted she could pull off. Zira was distracted when Corax approached her. At first sight of him, her tail swished energetically and she began to smile and prepare to greet him. However, she looked right past him and spotted her Master glaring at her. She realized what happened at once - Corax had been the object of their affection and the man ventured away to speak to her. Corax would see the pure terror in her eyes as she looked at the Sephi and likely put two and two together.

Zira knew she was going to get punished for the slight. Her tail drooped immediately and she pretended she didn’t hear Corax at all, looking down at the ground as she quickly shuffled away to stand near one of the other new arrivals (@Mr. Teatime )instead.

 

[Caerllion of Cyfnos]

Caerllion had hoped that Ayomi would have believed in him. He really hoped that it was the case. However, the Tiefling had opened their eyes. They weren’t that awkward person that he had met in Nar Shaddaa some time ago. A tiny part of him felt proud of that change, seeing that he had affected their growth as a Sith. The rest, however, was displeased that his plan of manipulating them failed because of himself.

He was half way through the crowd when Ayomi called him a coward. He knew the implications of it, a Champion was offending a Master in front of all other Sith. If he didn’t do something, they would eat him alive. Fueling the Dark side with his turmoil of emotions, Caerllion turned to look at them. His eyes were completely red.

Then, he would release a psychic attack against Ayomi, who seemed distracted with their emotions at the moment, with all the strength that he had gathered. If it worked, the Tiefling would feel their mental barriers being shattered. There would be a sharp pain that would be enough to make the Tiefling scream and give the answer that the other Sith around them were expecting.

If this didn’t work, he would use the same amount of power from the Dark Side to force Ayomi with his back to the floor and immobilize them here.

He was a Master now and would show the difference of power between them.

“Don't you dare to call me a coward, Champion. I'm a Master, you must respect my rank!” he would say, his voice full of venom and loud like hers, so the others would hear. “Don’t you see that you are making a scandal in Lord Arcanos’ home? Ruining his party? You should apologize to him.” he gestured to where the Pureblood was surrounded by his men. If at least he could be there with them. “Your answer is simple, I can’t reciprocate your feelings anymore. Not anymore.” he said, slowly stepping backwards toward the crowd. There is pity on his voice. Some of it was for Ayomi, and the rest for himself.

Pity because the two together would have been the easiest and safer path for his life. They could have been even happy. Perhaps he would have learned to love them with total devotion.

However, his heart decided that it didn’t want it. It wanted the difficult path. Desired it.

Loved it.

And it had hurt Ayomi in the process.

And would hurt him too, but he would deserve every single wound that came of it.

“I fell for someone else.” he said this part directly in their mind. There would be no pain here, only a brush of his mind against their's. The closest thing from an apology that he would say. He would once again try to disappear in the crowd, this time rushing as fast as he could to the exit.

He needed some fresh air.

@René

 

[Nefid]

Whatever happens, I had nothing to do with it, objected the Twi’lek. And for now, it was even true, though they both knew that wouldn’t last. It didn’t take long for things to pick up, the first scandalous kind of dramatics that always seemed to happen around her.

Annfyn passions were a beacon, a pull, irresistible. The sadness, misdirected because it couldn’t physically be muted. Nefid sensed the trainwreck coming before the first shouts rose. Eagerness, optimistic passion facing a wall of cold indifference in a way that was guaranteed to warp the room in the explosive mix. The Tiefling didn’t buy it. Longing turned to betrayal. Indifference became anger became aggression.

Nefid did what she did best. Fuel the fire.

Following Caerllion’s reveal, images came to Ayomi’s mind. Answers. The ‘someone else’ in question: Caerllion longing for Trodai of all people, a cruel twist of the knife. Master and apprentice locked in passion. All of which Nefid’s making—she hadn’t dared probe the Sith master’s mind for accurate recollections, if there even were any—and leaving the jilted Tiefling to decide whether they called it truth or intrusive thoughts.

And then the parting gift, as the vision faded: the trills of a songbird, for their ears only, like a taunt. A reminder of the first man who’d made them blush and bumble.

A now-dead Sith master.

@Sreeya @René

 

[Vander]

Vander watched Zira as her eyes brightened a bit and her tail flicked, smiling slightly before he watched that joy turn to fear and dread. He watched that gaze travel past him to Limmerick. He watched the way she quickly scurried away, tail drooping.

It was cutting and then the sadness was replaced by anger. For a long moment, Vander didn't move as he stood with his back to the wall. His face was etched like ice as his eyes looked out over the crowd, and he just... watched. A switch in his mind flipped to that predator's mindset that was so much easier whenever there was a mental reality or emotion he didn't want to confront. All emotions were just anger for Sith, right? Yeah? No?

If Vander was normally the brooding type, this did the exact opposite of improving it. Sooner or later he would likely rejoin the party, maybe, but for now he just stood there unless he was approached by someone else, which... felt a tinge unlikely.

Instead, he was left alone with his thoughts and plans. Because a good Sith was always scheming, right?

@Sreeya

 

[Serene]

A corner of Serene's mouth quirked into a smile at King's response. From a certain point of view he was correct. She had not met Darth Arcanos yet and certainly not formally. She took no offense to his poor memory or potential insult and let his popularity take his attention away from her. There would be plenty of time in the future for him to commit her to memory, nameless or not. But his gaze shifted past her and told her she was no longer his focus.

A fast way to a fight or worse was to get intimate with the man formerly named Azar. He was different, hopefully for the better since his latest lost but only time would tell. Speaking of lovers, it was Trael's arrival that turned Serene's and Darth Arcano's attention shifted away from her.

Iymril seemed rather confident in their own appearance. Serene sighed through her nose making a mental note to not compliment them going forward. They clearly did not need it. Rather than stick around where she was not wanted, the fiery dressed femme fatale gracefully crossed the room to get a refreshment and also maybe even a drink.

After the King of Korriban gave his speech the Champion gave a gentle round of applause. Both his words were motivating as were the two Sith Masters. She was glad to see the recognition for those worthy.

The rest of the night would change quickly as a number of side groups became embroiled in conflict. Watching from afar, Serene remained wary as ever. A glass of tonic water with a splash of citrus was all she ordered. A few ice cubes clinked together in the chilled cup whilst the sorceress also enjoyed the sight of dancing. Perhaps she would eventually join in but that would mean pulling her attention away from another spot. It was like watching multiple screens simultaneously. Maybe she just needed to find that sparkly dressed green guy from last time. What was his name?

 

[Ayomi Jakarta]

As Caerllion turned to address their accusation, Ayomi felt a glimmer of righteous satisfaction. Yellow eyes met red as the Tiefling noticed they'd struck a nerve, finally managing to drag forth a genuine show of emotion from the newly-minted Master for the first time this evening. Of course, though, that prodding meant retaliation.

Ayomi's hand was still inside their suit jacket, gripping the hilt they'd designed for the Annfyn with the intention of deflecting whatever lightning or energy blast he threw at them. But Caerllion was smarter than that, electing to go with the one attack they weren't prepared for: a psychic invasion.

He would have no trouble breaking through what little remained of Ayomi's mental defenses; their emotions raged like a storm, the mental stability and fortitude they'd entered with already shattered into a million pieces by Caerllion just moments before. Defenseless against the mental assault, the Tiefling fell to their knees and flung their hands up to clutch at their head as they screamed in pain. Like a hot iron stabbing into their skull. Caerllion's gift flew from their hands after they lost grip of it in their pain, the ornate black and gold cross-guard hilt skittering a few feet away. A pair of reflective onyx gems set into either side of the main emitter, meant to symbolize Caer's eyes, now seemed to embody the unforgiving black hole Ayomi's feelings had been drawn into.

Even once Caerllion’s attack ended, the pain refused to fade. "I can’t reciprocate your feelings anymore." It was one thing to suspect it, but another entirely to hear the words straight from Caer's mouth. A sharp pain like an icy knife stabbed into the Tiefling's chest and they collapsed fully to the ground, completely overwhelmed and beginning to hyperventilate. When they felt the touch of the Annfyn's mind return, Ayomi tensed expecting a second assault that would never come. No, Caer's message was much worse.

"I fell for someone else."

The knife twisted.

Ayomi lay on the ground, their breaths continuing to come faster and shallower, their chest aching, and too many thoughts to count spiraling through their mind. Unloved by their parents, not respected and looked down upon by their peers in the Sith. Caer had given them both of those things and promised more together, only to rip them away and remind the Tiefling of exactly what they were, what they had always been.

Worthless, unlovable trash.

Amid the surge of emotions and the riptide currents of thoughts that continued to grow unchecked, one seemed to stand out. Where in the sea of chaotic thoughts it came from Ayomi couldn't say, but it made all the sense in the world in that moment. Who else could have stolen Caer's heart than that insufferable Pureblood, Trodai?

He'd been Caerllion's apprentice after all, and he'd been to first to rush a gift to the man after Arcanos' speech. Not to mention, who else would go above and beyond to upstage the Tiefling at each and every turn?

Rage burned in Ayomi's eyes as they focused on the dancing Massassi, before the faint whisper of a songbird filtered into their ears. They looked around, desperately searching for a source before clutching their head once again. Wasn't that what Karys had always called them back in the day? Reality and fantasy were beginning to blend together, and between ragged breaths the champion's mind was beginning to unravel.

A new, more productive thought surfaced: maybe that Galactic boogeyman, Raze, had the right idea. How beautiful would Annwfyn look on fire, the society reduced to rubble by rampaging abombinations while Caer was forced to watch? Better yet, how beautifully would Trodai's prized city of Ur burn under the same duress?

If nobody in the galaxy could love them, why show the galaxy any of the same in return?

@LouJoVi @Volene

 

[Darth Arcanos]

“Of course,” Azar said sweetly to Trodai (@Akheron ) as he approached to dance. He took the man’s hand and twirled around, all while shaking his hips to the rhythm of the song. He could spot the drama brewing in the corner of his eye, of course, but the Pureblood wouldn’t let anything dampen his evening. From where he sat, the drama of others was nothing more than added entertainment and hardly bothered him.

The Pureblood broke away briefly when Trodai began a bellydancing routine, drawing a quirked brow. The man was built bulky, broad and rigid. He did not have the grace to ever pull off such a dance, but Azar gave him credit for attempting, giving a supportive little clap as he watched the unsightly display. Trodai had a lot of qualities, graceful mobility was not one of them.

“I think you are better at dancing with blades on the field, dear Trodai,” He said with a genuine, lighthearted giggle. Azar was distracted as he saw Caerllion outright attack Ayomi (@René )and make them collapse to the floor. The sight made the Pureblood pause his dancing and stare in wonder.

He hadn’t believed a word of what Caerllion said on Batuu. He fully believed that the Annfyn was simply caught up in the moment. Azar didn’t admit to anyone - not even himself - that he cherished those moments where the Annfyn read to him. It was a kind of intimacy that he adored far more than any wining and dining or sexual escapades. As he watched Caerllion (@LouJoVi ) storm away and leave a devastated Ayomi behind, it began to sink in that the man had meant every word. He was discarding a courtship that had been many months in the making, and Azar could recognize it from the pain he could see in Ayomi’s eyes and feel through the Force with his refined Sith Lord proficiencies. His golden gaze fixed on the azure tiefling, watching before him the birth of a new Sith - a metamorphosis into a war machine. It was as beautiful to behold as it was devastating. Azar looked at the fallen saberhilt, guessing that it was a gift they brought for Caerllion.

The Annfyn was rushing towards the exit, but Azar made sure he just so happened to be on the way out, “Don’t go,” He whispered softly as he knew the sensitive ears could hear, his golden gaze meeting Caerllion's obsidian.

 

[Trodai Narat-iv-Adas]

Trodai genuinely smiled as Azar took his hand. Twirling around it felt like a dream, as he attempted to follow suit much to the amusement of his king. But that was partly why he tried. He knew he wasn't very good at that particular style of dance but hell if he wasn't going to try, if just to give Azar some amount of joy at the sight and his attempt at trying. And it appeared to be working. He could kind to hear some drama going on but he was in the moment and so elected to ignore it.

Especially when he wasn't involved for once.

Although that wasn't to say he wasn't aware of who was involved. He continued the dance, jiggling and twirling as best his bulk would allow, giving a cheeky wink and a smile as he twirled about Azar. He loved these moments, small moments he could cherish. Especially after so long alone and essentially exiled from his sight. He likewise chuckled at the comment and replied "I know my king, but so thought I would make the effort regardless. This style of dance is not my usual style." he chuckled. Trodai was soon pulled from the dance, by the drama escalating as a full on assault occurred, with Ayomi being forced to the ground. He was a little annoyed at the two who had caused a interruption, more so at Ayomi since he hated them so much but remained quiet simply observing much as Azar was. Curious as to what will happen next.

He was expecting violence. And that's kind of what they got in a way. He sighed, it seemed he had been too optimistic to expect nothing to happen. Someone always had to cause a scene at such gatherings. As he continued to observe, he noticed his former master Caerllion appearing to be the cause of the disturbance as did he notice what happened after. As Azar ran after him.

This made him curious. Why? But looking upon Ayomi, feeling that rage, seeing the assault and seeing Caerllion and Azar like they were. It didn't take him long to get curious and equally suspicious. That something was definitely going on there. But he didn't question it. Even if there was something there he had no quarrel with it. Caerllion he could respect, perhaps more than most he had met. Other than Azar.

He noted how Ayomi seemed to darken, like a switch had been struck. It was curious but not his concern, whatever was becoming of them. So as Azar rushed off, Trodai took as a sign the dance was over. But he has enjoyed it short as it was, and that drew a small smile. What he was and was seeing changed nothing about how he felt for the man. He would always love Azar.

Heading from the dance floor, Trodai continued to notice Ayomi just laying there. Well at least they were where they belonged.

Beneath him.

As he passed by he couldn't help but at least rub it in a little. Afterall what kind of rival would be if he didn't?

"Looks like your where you finally belong. Beneath me. Perhaps you should be over there." he gestured to the grotthu. "They seem more your kind of crowd." He issued a small chuckle as he walked off. His senses alert, as he walked away with caution, never taking at least one eye off their rival. The Force ready to act if they should attack. With that he walked away leaving Ayomi to do whatever it was they were doing.

Mopping more than likely. He headed to the bar before looking around seeing a few more familiar faces had turned up. Then he saw a familiar face. A troublemaker of sorts, a agent of chaos. Nefid. He wondered was she responsible for what occured. He knew it was possible having previously been a victim of her unique ways. Electing to not question it further he saw Serene.

For once he wanted to speak to her. He needed her assistance with a project soon and this was probably the best time to see if she would be interested. And so.He made his way over and have a curt bow. He spoke "Greetings Champion Serene. As you can see another interesting altercation at a social event. Seems to be a tradition. How have you been of late?"

@Sreeya @René @LouJoVi @Darasuum @Volene

 

[Caerllion of Cyfnos]

Caerllion walked toward the exit, not daring to even look at Ayomi one last time. He had already delivered the punishment that they deserved and destroyed any illusion that the Tiefling had that they could be together. The only thing that he could feel for them now was pity and certainty that he now had an enemy where once he had a potential ally.

It was a shame that he couldn’t manipulate them.

He didn’t want to think about it anymore. In a matter of fact, the party had lost all its appeal to him. The only good thing that came out of that night was that Caerllion was able to see Azar happy. With the memory of that moment, the Annfyn continued his path toward the nearest exit.

The Annfyn had been looking down, trying to put his feelings back into order. Being part of a species with strong emotions could be dangerous and even as a Sith he still needed to have control over them or it would burn himself and everything around him.

He was so distracted that only noticed that someone was in his path when he heard their voice. Azar. Caerllion immediately raised his head and stared at the Pureblood, their eyes meeting. The words came out in the form of a whisper, but the Annfyn’s keen hearing allowed him to hear it perfectly.

Azar wanted him to stay.

This made his heart beat fast.

“For you, I’ll stay.” he smiled at the Pureblood, all thoughts about the events of early having disappeared from his mind. His promotion, Ayomi, everything had little importance to him now. The only thing that mattered was that Azar had come to ask him to stay.

“I brought a copy of the ‘Journey of Ulyxeus’ for you. It has translations of the verses in basic to help in learning the Annfyn language. I’ll leave at your library.” that book was already his favorite, but it became even more special after they had read it together. Since Azar had appreciated it, he thought that it could be a good gift to thank the King for having organized this part in honor of his promotion.

He took a deep breath, before talking again. “When you have free time, can we dance?” Caerllion said, feeling insecure. There was the chance that Azar would stay dancing with one of his partners during the rest of the night, so he would understand if the answer was a no.

@Sreeya

 

[Ayomi Jakarta]

The raging inferno within Ayomi refused to go out, yet somehow it only brought things more into focus. They had been right about the dangers of passion, but Caerllion hadn't been completely wrong either. A shattered heart manifested as rage in its purest form, building up within the Tiefling like a volcano just waiting to burst. They pushed themselves up back into a slumped kneeling position, only turning to look up as a shadow fell over their figure.

The shadow of Trodai. He dared to mock them, to rub in his supposed victory? The insult alone would be bad enough, but worse was their rival turning his back to them as if they weren't a threat.

How gravely mistaken the Pureblood was.

No matter if the man was prepared, there was only so much a person could do with their back fully turned. Trodai would have only a split second to react as Ayomi's hand shot out and unleashed all of their built up rage with a cold, hateful stare. Bright violet bolts of lightning burst from their hand as they stood, the effort already burning their hand. Trodai had faced similar attacks from them before, but this was different. It was pure, unfiltered Dark Side energy meant to do only one thing: kill. They would not let up the assault, no matter how much it burned their arm. The pain only further fueled the assault.

"I will tolerate your insults no more, champion Trodai. You are nothing." Ayomi spoke with a calm tone, but one produced by intense anger. Their other hand reached out, calling the dropped lightsaber to their hand in preparation for a continued confrontation.

@Akheron

 

[Vossari Khaldun]

Vossari pecked his king (@Sreeya ) on the cheek as he took in the surroundings. Among the din of the party was drama, interactions, and Voss was soon separated from his king as he was swamped by attendants.

Vossari's eyes followed, slowly, as Azar sauntered off onto the dance floor. After which he was followed by the Korribani variety of flopping fish in Trodai. Voss's knuckles gripped like a vice, cracking the glass of juice in his hands as his eyes bore into Trael. "The fact that this coward draws breath while Karys is dead..." Vossari thought back to Murzana, where Trodai abandoned his post and his troops after a complete failure of leadership. He remembered their recent antics at the Senate party, where Trodai bumbled and stumbled along Vossari and Azar's delicate, intense moments of passion. That he could deign to walk among their halls still sent pangs of anger down his spine...

The drama was drama-ing! Vossari didn't have any of the grace of Trael as he watched the two Sith quarrel at the party. Now, they were both shouting - one cursing the other. As he did, he thought back to Nar Shadda - the last real party that the Sith had had in his time. This one was already competing for that level of drama!

Vosssari watched as that worthless worm Trodai began to berate Ayomi. He remembered then his first meeting with Ayomi - when they disrespected him. Since then, it was a never-ending onslaught of disrespect towards them. This humiliation conga line was topped off by Trodai, off all people, who had just undergone extensive surgery to recover from his poop burns.

When Ayomi's fingertips discharged the crackling bolts of lighting into Trodai's exposed flesh, it was only adding to the litany of injuries that . Voss couldn't lie, he was a survivor. Let's see if he'd survive this.

Vossari spread his fingers and wove the water from the pools, the partygoer's drinks, and the very sweat on their brow into a watery tendril, which he lashed at Trodai as the lightning struck. He channeled his own contempt and loathing towards the Massassi into the liquid, aiming to soak the pureblood completely. This water whip would supercharge the effects of Atom's lightning strike.

 

[Vander]

Vander's olympic levels of brooding was interrupted by an eruptions of violence. If there was anything that was gong to knock Vander out of his own head it was a threat.

Violence breaking out elsewhere in the building caused Vander to move toward it - you know, like sane people do - and his hand brushed the lightsaber under his cloak should he need it in a... hurry.

Truth be told, it wasn't a Sith party if blood wasn't shed, and... well, it was entertaining at least. Blood sports weren't usually his "thing" per se, but in this case, a good duel or - more likely - throwdown was probably the most interesting thing going on.

He recognized at least two of those in the altercation as being members of Arcanos's inner circle, and he half expected the Sith Lord to step in, but... well, honestly he had no idea if that was the Darth's style. Nor did he know what the altercation was about so instead he settled in to watch and glean what he could.

He came to a stop near a woman who looked vaguely familiar but he - of course - didn't know the name of.

Did you hear what started all this? he asked the woman (@Darasuum).

 

[Darth Arcanos]

Azar smiled at Caerllion’s response that he would stay. When he mentioned the book, there was visible excitement in the Pureblood’s eyes. He enjoyed art and literature far more than he discussed normally with others. With Caerllion he had a shared interest and passion that made their dynamic valuable to Azar, “That is very thoughtful of you, princeling,” He said with a smile, using the name that was almost becoming a term of endearment since Batuu.

His gaze flicked back towards Ayomi, “Ugly business,” He muttered as he sipped from his wine. Azar was about to agree to the dance right then when the drama returned. Unsurprisingly, he watched Trodai saunter over towards Ayomi. He almost telepathically suggested not doing that, but the Arcanos side of him believed in survival of the fittest. Trodai was a lover, not a partner. The new Azar had little patience for anyone outside of his partners, “I believe we are about to have a show, dear Caerllion,” He said smoothly as he touched his goblet against the Annfyn’s before taking a sip.

Moments later, Ayomi retaliated with lightning because Trodai, for some bizarre reason, turned his back and thought he could casually strike up a conversation with Serene after provoking the tiefling. Azar, who knew his partner Vossari had nothing but hate for Trodai at this point, watched to see what the Wrean would do. He took another sip as Vossari assisted in the effort, turning it into a slaughter.

A Sith gathering without a fight or scandalous sex was a dull affair.

“Keep the fighting over there,” Azar’s voice called out, gesturing to the perimeter in which they were squabbling, “If any of my servants or innocent guests die or this building collapses, I will give you a very unpleasant, humiliating death and systematically butcher or enslave any kin of yours I sniff out,” He added sweetly. Everyone knew he was the worst of them all when it came to inflicting terrible pain, and he wouldn’t hesitate to apply his skills if the fighting destroyed too much of his precious palace.

Azar grabbed a chocolate covered strawberry off a passing tray, nibbling on it as he watched the show.

“Perhaps you would have stuck with Ayomi if they showed this kind of teeth before,” He mused as he licked the chocolate off the strawberry, giving Caerllion a wink.

@LouJoVi

 

[Nefid]

The tray continued its course until a pallid hand seized a strawberry in much the same way. Nefid admired her handiwork from afar, basked in the agony.

Jealousy, I hear, she whispered for Vander across the room.

@Sreeya @Phoenix

 

[Iymril]

​

Iymril watched the look of excitement fade from Zira’s (@Sreeya) face. It was replaced with fear of reprisal. Good. She ducked away and vanished into the crowd away from Corax. (@Phoenix) They stopped watching after that, Zira had performed admirably. Iymril was glad they wouldn’t have to stay up late for the next week just to give her nightmares while she slept. That was dreadfully exhausting.

Instead, their attention shifted towards Caer (@LouJoVi) and his Tiefling (@René) lover. Things had escalated. Tension and emotions were high. Iymril’s ears were perked and they were excited to watch an Anfynn get humiliated. But instead, the Tiefling collapsed onto the ground after throwing a lightsaber hilt. Iymril’s ears steadily dipped as their interest waned.

That was until Trodai, (@Akheron) the oaf of a Pureblood that had been choked by the woman on the Wildcard made his move. For whatever reason. He decided to kick a Tiefling when they were down. Something that had…shocking results.

Finally, bloodshed!

It seemed even Arcanos approved. Iymril almost moved to watch the martial prowess between the two warriors but decided against it. Instead, they opted to do a little networking of their own. They glided up to Master Osso (@Javier esschoolbus) and Champion Khaldun. (@Fine Dining Set) Their ears perked slightly and their lips gave a small upturn.

“Master Osso.” Iymril greeted with a curtsy. “And Ambassador or do you prefer Professor Khaldun?” They asked, showing the depths of their research into the two men. Iym would pause for a moment to allow Vossari to answer before returning their attention solely to Trael. “Might I steal you for a dance?” They asked as they looked down at the newly promoted Master.