Event Winter's Gala (2021)

[Xarxes]

~A Winter’s Eve Dance~

Location: Adascopolis, Arkania, the courts of Amaunator Adasca

It was rare that large parties would be hosted for such a colourful collection of guests, but Amaunator Adasca went all out when he threw such a ball. Tonight, under the snow-freckled sky of Arkania, the doors of Adascopolis’s finest ballroom, that belonging to Castle Adasca in the heart of the city, would be open to the throngs of gathered Sith. It was a festive time for the Order, one which the teeming masses of Arkanian society, pragmatic as they were, would not understand. The Sith had elected, through what some called archaic democracy, a new Dark Councilor to sit in the ring of thrones, only recently. Atop that, the lull in the spirit of the Order had been felt, and there were many in the higher echelons of power who sought to reinvigorate the lower ranks. One of the Dark Council had said something: “let them eat cake.” Darth Drakul Xarxes had taken it as a morale-boosting military practice, allowing a grand night of enjoyment for the sake of endearing the soldiers, so to speak, to the cause and its leaders. A reliable method, even if not ideal.

He had, however, pulled out all the stops for this one. Adorning the columns of the glass and crystal ballroom were tapestries in marvelous hues of emerald, aquamarine, lilac, scarlet, rose, and all manner of colours. Servants adorned with elegant masks stood in attendance for the guests as they funneled in through the translucent double doors, bearing trays of fine champagne and delectable appetizers. An even greater feast lay in wait in the wings of the ballroom, where across a grand table was laid a mass of meats, cheeses, stuffings, cookies, puddings, cakes, and punches. If it could be thought of, the organizer had intuited someone would desire it, and thus had prepared it.

​

The great crystalline dome directly overhanging the dance floor refracted starlight across its cut surface. Arkania was well-known for its diamonds and other precious gems, and it was apparent that this ballroom was decorated with many such stones. Between the balconies which ran along the second floor was hung a great chandelier, again directly above the dance floor, which caught the light of the stars in its diamond-cut surfaces, casting radiant, many-coloured across the guests below.



Visitors were greeted by the haunting sounds of a small waltz band and choir, stationed on one of the balconies overlooking the room. Four Bith held what looked to be string instruments under their necks, drawing bows across them in deliberate, rhythmic strokes. A team of three Arkanians, a Muun, and two humans comprised the choir, humming and crooning strange melodies which hung on the ears of all present, providing a double-faceted sense of excitement and dread for the tone and lyric they rasped.




Yet, it was festive, though in a way not many present, if any, were accustomed to. The usual Life Day decorations were replaced instead by a collection of brushy, spiky vines. Tinsel, Xarxes had heard it called when he visited Urrtha. Wreaths with small red berries (Xarxes found them to be foul-tasting) hung on every balcony, and at one end of the ballroom stood a great, conical tree, multicoloured ornamental spheres and spikes hanging from it, and atop it sat the choice decoration of a singing Star Weird, eerie and exotic, its eyes aglow with malice that many of the lowest ranks would find paralyzing.


Opposite the tree, dressed in purpurean finery, was Amaunator Adasca, the dreaded Darth Drakul Xarxes to this crowd. Tonight he wore deep violet robes, a silver trim highlighting the details in the embroidery. In one hand he clutched a fur-trimmed cap of similar color, a ball of silver fur hanging off the end. It had been styled off the cap the natives of Urrtha had tried to give him, which he had been rather fond of. With his other hand, he clasped the palm of his wife, Lady Alcina Adasca, the most stunning Arkanian woman to walk the planet, and the apple of his eye. She wore an elegant sapphire dress and a crystal coronet, by all accounts appearing quite the ice queen. With a bit of cryokinesis, one of her favored Force powers, she had managed to craft a very real set of ice crystal jewelry to complement her gown. In the dazzling light of the ballroom, her crystals shone brightly, making her quite the eye-catching figure.


“Do you think, darling, that you’ve outdone yourself a bit,” she whispered, leaning into her husband’s chest.

“Not at all, my love,” he replied softly. “The Empress herself requested I prepare a great party, and so I traveled across the stars to find a fitting culture to emulate in our revelry. I think I have struck balance.”

His wife looked at him with a coy smile. “So desperate to please the Empress, are you?”

Xarxes chuckled slightly. “I like keeping my status on the Council, yes.”

Alcina smiled back. “I do hope the enjoy it. You really did put so much effort into this. I particularly like the small band you found, the “Tinkerers.” But, love, what are all those boxes around the strange tree for?” It was true. Around the base of the towering tree, which must have been at least ten meters tall, were dozens of boxes of various shapes, sizes, and colours.

“Those? Well, you’ll have to see about them. Go and open one at some point in the night. It’s a little idea I had when I visited Urrtha. I’ll have to tell you the tale later, for it’s a hilarious one indeed.”

The Nightfather’s Mqaaq’it surveyed the room, falling upon the most stunning of sights to see. There was a great—quite literal—fountain of spiked punch to one side of the dance floor, where servants stood ready to serve the guests, icy crystal goblets in hand. In another part of the room sat two great sapphire thrones, one with a crystal ball in front of it. Not just any crystal ball, but one of Xarxes’s own relics: an All-Seeing Eye. That was where he was to sit for much of the night, cap on and prepared to give all who approached what they sought…if they had behaved the correct way this cycle.

He leaned forward and planted a kiss aside his wife’s temple, avoiding poking himself on her crystal crown. “I have a seat to take, my dear. Join me when you’re ready. Let the festivities begin!”

With a telepathic cue from the Nightfather, the band began playing an upbeat and jovial song, something to do with “holly” and “falala-ing,” which Xarxes was ne’er too fond of, but if it appeased the Empress to have a joyous winter celebration for the inauguration of a new Councilor, then let it be done.

 

[Jen'nu]

Flares in the Snow.
IC: Ānhrā Māhnîu.
Location: Ballroom, Castle Adasca, Arkania.​

For all the reclusion that had dominated the last several months, he had recently found himself increasingly drawn to the fire of festivities. They may have little material value, more wasteful than anything, though exciting nonetheless. The lack of necessities imposed on him specifically was certainly of some help.

And so he appeared. When asked later however, none of the other entrants could recall his entrance. No one could seem to remember when he appeared, or where he appeared from. Yet there he was, stars flaring in the snow.

In a stark departure from his usual apparel, he strode though the hall clad in glittering white robes striped with gold. For the simple purpose of accentuating his mien, he had taken the care to apply dark Sith markings. Rising all the way from his chest and shoulders, the aquatic blue vines stretched onto his cheeks, mirroring the spiky brushes regaling the room.
His hair, usually held together in a messy braid, had been thoroughly overhauled. An inky waterfall cascaded backwards over his shoulders, shining with gloss and glitter as he swayed across the floor.

His Vong mqaaq’it, filled with flaming vigor absorbed the hall as he swept across it.

 

[Darth Xxys]

(XXYS IC)

The air was clear and crisp as the Dark Lord Xxys stepped from his personal shuttle craft into the snowy night.

Arkania.

Throne world and home of the Dark Lord Drakul Xarxes.

The invitation had been hand delivered by an actual courier in a gilded envelope, sealed with the royal crest of Lord Xarxes AND the Empress Hesper! An invitation to a Life Day celebration on the Dark Lords home world, and the Imperatrix as the guest of honor. Truly a grand and spectacular event.

The Arkanian royal was a notoriously reserved and private man, so to have these festivities on his homeworld was indeed a rare and auspicious occasion.

Xxys pulled his cloak in against the cold and proceeded down the ramp and across the landing platform.
The pathway was well lit and attended by masked servants in colorful costume offering libations in the form of a 'Hot Toddy': a warm mixture of whiskey and a sweet nectar with a sqeeze of lemon. Xxys took the offered drink and sipping the lightly steaming concoction he felt the warmth flow into his core. As he continued down the path a light waltz emanated from the looming entrance to the majestic edifice. The music echoed down the glass halls and reflected off the crystal columns filling the hallway with a festive atmosphere. Another set of ornate gold and glass doors separated the hallway from the feasting hall itself and apon entering one is immediately taken by the crystal dome. An architectural masterpiece of crystal and steel. The sky above was spectacular in its stark beauty and the snow that gently fell outside gave the entire banquet hall the appearance of a reverse snow globe.

Into this Xxys strode and after taking a glass from a nearby servant he alighted to the main dias where apon sat the host and his beautiful wife.

"Hail and greetings!" Xxys intoned as he made a formal bow to the Lord and Lady. "Happy Life Day Celebrations my Lord and Lady!"

@Drakul_Xarxes

 

[Grievance Vexx]

IC- Lord Grievance Vexx
Arkanian Tundra

Silence. It seems so intense in the frigid air of a winter climate. Grievance Vexx had touched down on Arkania several hours ago, but he had intentionally landed quite far from the venue where the Nightfather would be hosting this evening's festivities. He had needed the time to...prepare.



The trek is long; treacherous. But the Krigsbefallaf requires this time to acclimate himself and to disconnect from the duties of being a war commander. There is a time when even Sith must call a truce and enjoy a respite from the constant battles they face. He finds himself looking forward to an evening of...dare he call it peace? No. Peace is a lie. He is reminded of an old song...a carol...he had once heard as a youngling.

And in despair I bowed my head
"There is no peace on Earth, " I said
For hate is strong and mocks the song
Of peace on Earth, good will to men



Maybe not tonight. Perhaps maybe, just for tonight, things can be different. There is much to celebrate. A time of victories for the Empire; a time of personal victories for the Krigsbefallaf as he reflects on this year in which he had ascended to become a Dark Lord among those who surround the Empress. Shortly after that, he had become the right hand man to Tribune Lord Xxys. So many changes. He had seen his beloved housemates succeed and shared in their victories as well. General Reiis Invadator and Lord Crúak had ascended to the Dark Council and only recently, Lord Crúak had become Dark Reach Crúak, a Triumvir serving by the Empress's side.

And just when Vexx had thought he couldn't be more proud, he had seen yet another housemate--his own apprentice--contend bravely for his own place among the Council. While this was not to be Sharkish'ki's moment of glory, he had nevertheless made both of his masters proud.

Yet amid all of these momentous occasions, there is sorrow to be reflected upon as well. Vexx's own master, Lord Draconis, had stepped down from the Council, an event which had admittedly grieved the heart of the Krigsbefallaf. His master will always hold a seat of power in his life, for the man is largely responsible for equipping the Kaleesh cyborg to not only survive, but to succeed among the Sith. Vexx will remain eternally grateful for his lessons.

So lost in thought is Lord Vexx that he almost forgets about his escorts; two Clone Wars era IG 100 Magnaguards flank him, trudging in silence through the snow and dressed in Kaleesh attire. The presence of droids never bothered Vexx very much. They have their uses.

It isn't much longer before the Krigsbefallaf hears festive music and laughter carrying on the cold night air. Perhaps he will see old friends there at the gathering: General Invadator, Lord Draconis, Lord Xxys, Dark Reach Crúak; perhaps Sharkish'Ki and maybe some of his students from Counterstrike. Who could really say? In any case, he picks up the pace, suddenly becoming aware of the biting wind causing his eyes to water.



Surrounded by a cloud of swirling snow, Vexx and his guards approach the doors. Vexx is clad in a simple, yet regal-looking cloak lined with fur and proudly bearing the Sheelal sigil in dark gray. He is let in by the attendants there and he immediately takes notice of Lord Xxys, easing his way into the gathering. While Vexx has never been one for the social scene, he trails the Tribune as he meets up with and greets the host of this lavish party.

"Greetings, Lord Xarxes. Tribune," he greets each of them with a respectful bow in turn, "You truly have outdone yourself, Nightfather. This is like nothing I have ever seen, much less been invited to."

Tag: @Drakul_Xarxes, @Darth Xxys, @Reiis Invadator (mentioned), @dragonsith13 (mentioned), @Rayge (mentioned), @Sharkish’Ki (mentioned)

 

[Reiis Invadator]

IC: Reiis Invadator
Arkania

Reiis always wondered why people chose cold planets, because what good could ever come from a place that experienced freezing temperatures, snow, and...ice? Dreaded, blasted ice. Yet the lights beyond that greeted newcomers promised warmth, company, and hospitality, so The General strode on towards the location of interest. Her armor protected her from the worst of the ragingly low temperatures, but a thick cloak also supplemented the winter protection. It was dark, thick, and lined with fur from some now-dead fuzzy creature. Not that it made the planet any less inhospitable. If I furred mammal dared run to close to her position, she might have been tempted to snatch it up and tie it around her neck for the extra warmth, snapping jaws and fighting claws be damned. At least her cybernetics weren't cold.

With a final grumble to the inclement weather, The General stepped into the party, noticing that she had come soon after the Krigsbefallaf. She shakes the snow off of her cloak before she reaches the part of the floor where it would be rude to do so, resists the urge to begin a snowball fight, and makes her way towards her apprentice. "Lord Xarxes," she bows politely and formally -- then adds, as affectionately as she gets: "My apprentice. No detail overlooked, as usual. It's a grand event." She smiled, the motion tinging her sentence and making it the genuine compliment it was meant to be.

TAGs: @Grievance Vexx @Drakul_Xarxes

 

[dragonsith13]

Draconis
Adascopolis, Arkania, the courts of Amaunator Adasca

The cold night air. The falling of light snow. Bathed in the moonlight that reflected perfectly upon the white landscape adding to the overall illumination of the realm. The clatter of hooves upon cobblestone as he approached, passing through the larger outer gates of the castle. It would have been easy to have arrived in more efficient transport, but where was the elegance and grace in such. The simpler ways were always to be appreciated. The journey through the city and outlying environment had been an experience to appreciate unto itself.



The frosty breath from his steed hit the cold air, casting the familiar vapor as it breathed in and out. The dark horned horse coming to a stop within the gates of the adorned Castle Adasca. A servant of the castle coming up to take the reins of the steed, in a well trained and accustomed manner befitting the highest of standards that were expected. He held on with an expert discipline, despite his fear and the pain that began to surge through him the moment he had made contact with the reins of the dark entity that served as the transportation for Lord Draconis. Knowing that the pain he felt would be nothing compared to suffering the wrath of showing fear or acknowledgement of pain in the presence of any single Dark Lord or Lady. Particularly that of the being that dismounted the shadowy steed.

Having dismounted, Draconis raised a leather gloved hand and pressed it against the steeds neck, his hand tracing elegantly down the horse's neck to offer a final rub and pat. The attending servant bowed and led the horse off towards the stables.



Dressed in a warm outer coat of midnight with white trim and black fur around the collar a black and white masque covering part of his face, Draconis looked upwards admiring the highest reaches of the castle, the lights of the countless chambers showing through the many windows and openings that ran across the exterior of the structure. Torches and fires burning brightly in the winter night.

Passing through the entrance mezzanine and allowing his coat to be taken by an attending servant to which he also removed his black leather gloves and handed. Into the grand hall Draconis softly entered, admiring the intricacy of the castle and the finely adorned emerald tapestries. The cold winter elegance a similar theme to that of the night and shadows of House Tenebris in some manner. What a delightfully wicked scene he thought as he observed the already underway festivities.

Draconis wore a set of androgynous white dress robes with black trim, a departure from the normal darker and midnight dress robes of his particular style. The white robes contrasting his darker gray complexion that could be seen alongside the black and white masque that he wore on his face.

With a smile he observed the assembled musicians, performers, the already gathered guests and those Lords and Ladies… Ānhrā Māhnîu, Xxys, Vexx, and Invadator already gathered before at last eyeing the gala’s host, Lord Drakul Xarxes adorned in deep violet robes with silver trim. Draconis offered slight glance towards both Apprentices who had arrived before him, with a sinister smirk.

The flow and beat of the waltz was already traveling up Draconis' spine. The aura of the atmosphere was most befitting and welcoming as Draconis approached the night's host. With a grace and elegance of and flair Draconis offered a half bow with a flourishment of his hands slightly outward in a slight twirling that finished with a simple open handed gesture to both sides. A movement which one would thing to be completely foreign to that of the deadly being, yet was executed with a horrifying grace and dramatic flair that showed an air of expert understanding and experience with such regalities of such proceedings. “Lord Xarxes, your invitation is accepted.” Draconis confidently spoke in a jovial tone as he offered his appreciation for both the host's preparations of the festivities and invitation equally. Draconis sinister empty gazed eyes met the Lord Xarxes after coming up from his embellished flaring greeting.

@Grievance Vexx @Drakul_Xarxes @Darth Xxys @Reiis Invadator @Ānhrā Māhnîu

 

[Tobbi Airskipper]

IC: Tobbi Airskipper

Location: Adascopolis, Arkania, the courts of Amaunator Adasca

Tobbi trudged his way through the bitter, chalky white, razor-sharp snow. It was a moment of contemplation and reflection for Tobbi; he brought nothing and no one, only clinging on to his jacket for warmth. His boot, nay his entire foot being drowned upon the icy white snow as he kept moving. Tobbi wasn't sure why he decided this would be a good idea, but the apprentice felt that it was appropriate for the celebrations that were being had at the Dark Lord Xarxes' mansion. Tobbi knew that he was utterly confused at himself but felt the need to trudge forward continuously and keep moving until he met his goal until he achieved his glorious purpose.

Tobbi learned a lot from his experience, but all of which he would not dare say aloud, only allowing them to rattle in his mind as what mattered was the now and the present. Tobbi knew what he could see and what he couldn't, what he could hear and what he couldn't, what he could taste and what he couldn't. And so, this experience was Tobbi's pledge to honor. And so, Tobbi found himself at his intended destination, standing alone.

Cold.

And shivering at the entrance.

Tobbi saw the esteemed Lord Xxys, Anhra, Vexx, Invadator, and Draconis make their entry into the mansion. Tobbi didn't dare enter without an invitation despite the party being open for every sith in the empire. So Tobbi stopped at the doorway and bowed in Lord Xarxes' direction before waiting a while before finally walking inside.

Tobbi was sure that he was being a little bit too cautious, but Tobbi figured that it was best to err on the side of caution when it came to events like this. Tobbi knew if he got too carried away, everything would result in a very bad time for him. So Tobbi made his way to the warmest part of the mansion and sat there, heating himself and regaining warmth from his long trek through the snow-white gardens.

TAG: @Grievance Vexx @Drakul_Xarxes @Darth Xxys @Reiis Invadator @Ānhrā Māhnîu

 

[Xarxes]

IC: Drakul Xarxes

The arrival of the Lord of Lwhekk, his housemate, was not unsettling for Xarxes, having gotten to know the lab-spawn extensively over the past several months, and neither did the presence of the regal former apprentice of Darth Vader, his twin-beards cutting quite the figure amid the guests. These he greeted with fondness, as he did his former Master and her cyborg housemate.

The one anomaly in the room, however, was Lord Draconis.

Xarxes bore no ill will for the shadowy one, of course, having seen how capable he was in combat and conversation, equally deathly in each. He had no fear of conflict here, and yet was unsettled by the intense stare he received. The swiveling Mqaaq'it did not withhold itself, instead widening the surrounding lid and turning itself a deep crimson as Draconis looked on.

"Greetings, my companions, and welcome to my abode," he announced to the small group of those gathered, now standing. Holding out his hand for Alcina, he assisted her elegantly to her feet until she stood beside him flocked in radiance.

"This is my wonderful bride, Lady Alcina Adasca, if you haven't met her," he said, not withholding any pride he took in having wedded the most beautiful and - unbeknownst to them - most virtuous woman on the planet and for many planets around.

"A pleasure to meet you." Alcina inclined her head toward each, though she did not bow. While Xarxes was on the Dark Council, Alcina was not even a part of the Sith Order, and as such she bore greater status here, on her planet. Xarxes, in the meantime, performed sweeping bows for those of similar stature in politics.

"I trust you all are not expecting gifts this Life Day, eh? Perhaps too old, you think?" He chuckled deeply, a laugh that would have reverberated loudly if he had worn his helm. Instead, the irregular behavior marked an ever-so-subtle mixture of discomfort and genuine amusement. To distract himself, he put the white fur-trimmed lilac cap on his head, surveying the room and wondering, curiously, if the desire for gifts or wishes was on anyone's mind.

TAG: @Grievance Vexx @Reiis Invadator @Darth Xxys @dragonsith13 @Ānhrā Māhnîu

 

[Tobbi Airskipper]

IC: Tobbi Airskipper, Narancia, Yuffie, Dutch, Rock, Zarya, and Rebecca

Tobbi whistled as he sat by the fire and realized that he was, in fact, quite bored; he realized that this party wasn't entirely for him, and he decided to liven things up a bit for his enjoyment. So Tobbi contacted his ship in orbit, and signaled for it to make its way towards his coordinates. Tobbi was delighted that he was allowed to be left to his own devices as his presence went seemingly unacknowledged, which was just fine for Tobbi, as it meant that he was allowed to have all the fun as long as he was careful not to have too much fun.

The ship soon touched down on the landing pad, and familiar faces walked through the smog, and Tobbi was enthused to see them, as his studies in the Darkside made it so that he could barely see his friends along with them being relatively busy with their own lives. First off the ship were the Jensaarai twins Yuffie and Narancia, boy; it has been a long time since he saw them, they were not as loyal as the rest of his guard, but at the same time, they were by far the most powerful friends he had these days.

"Ahh, Narancia, Yuffie, so glad to see you."

(Left is Narancia, right is Yuffie)​

Tobbi Airskipper gazed on the banished Jensaarai twins as their mighty presence was astounding.

They were warriors trained to hate the Jedi initially, then eventually, the Sith. But ironically the twins found themselves not only indebted to a Sith but also befriending one.

Both Narancia and Yuffie bowed and greeted Tobbi in kind.

"Greetings Tobbi, when you said that the Sith were throwing a grand party, I could hardly believe my ears."

Narancia spoke, his voice boomed, as it was stern but fierce, every word out of his mouth proudly echoing through the eardrums to all who listened.

"I am surprised as well, Tobbi; I didn't think Sith were capable of such festivities."

Yuffie's voice was nearly identical to Narancia's, the only difference being that hers was lighter and had a touch of gentleness to it. Tobbi shook his head and laughed.

"Don't worry, my friends, we may worship different religions, but we Sith know how to party! I'll meet you guys by the fireplace."


The pair giggled and made their way inside; next out the shuttle was Tobbi's former head hunters, now closet allies; they had been with him through every conceivable tragedy in his life, and they always had his back no matter what.

First was the ever-dependable straight shooter Dutch, with his burly armor and tactical munitions constantly strapped to his chest. Dutch was ready for any and every conceivable threat fitting for a man who held the position of Head of security next after Dutch was Rock, the de-facto second in command and strategist who was also quick-witted.

(Left is Dutch, right is Rock)​

"Sup boss seems like we have quite the shindig here."

Tobbi chuckled, "Of course we do; today marks a special occasion, a new councilor has been elected, and the Empress has allowed everyone to come and seemingly bring any guest. And since my presence was unacknowledged, I figured that I could do as I pleased as long as I am not disruptive to the events going on."

"Sweet deal if you ask me, I heard where the Jensaarai were going; I'll take some champagne and head there."

"Goodman," Tobbi responded as Dutch walked inside.

Rock looked at Tobbi through his visor and outstretched his hand.

"Kept you waiting, huh?" Tobbi said as he reached out his hand and returned the gesture, shaking Rock's hand firmly.

"Damn straight, boss. We'll find your siblings and kill them all." A pause, a moment of respect. "I'll go make sure Dutch doesn't get into trouble.

Tobbi watched on as Rock made his way inside, using his expert training to track down his fellow genetically modified comrade. Lastly, two figures stood at the ship's ramp, Zarya and...her.

(Left is Zarya, right is Rebecca)​

Tobbi recognized Zarya and her ever-inquisitive and quirky mind. She could never stop muttering quiet thoughts to herself, even if she was in the presence of other people.

"The Sith that rules this planet isn't a full-blooded Arkanian, so how is he able to freely reside without the populace attacking him? Wouldn't the populace revolt and try to kill him? The Arkanians are known for their blatant and direct racism so to see a half Dathomiran half Arkanian is most perplexing, what kind of favors-"

Before Zarya could finish her quiet thoughts, Tobbi placed a hand on her visor, which barely caught her attention, and saw Tobbi Airskipper, her boss, with an index finger on his lip smiling.

"Ssssh. Welcome Zarya, try not to mutter; you might get me in trouble."

"Boss!" Zarya yipped as she embraced him and Tobbi hugged her as well.

"I'm so glad you're doing better Sir, last time we saw you...."

Tobbi laughed; he understood what she was about to say; he was a different man and looked completely different.

"Go inside, Zarya, we'll catch up later; Rock should've tracked Dutch inside by now, so everyone should be gathered onto the fire pit."

"Yes, Sir!" Zarya shouted with a salute as she made her way inside.

Finally, there was the last one, Rebecca Thorja; he had not seen her in what felt like forever. Rebecca continued down the ramp, and the two stared at each other and held hands. Tobbi could feel the longing, the concern, and relief flooding her mind. Tobbi could sense everything from her seemingly, and he didn't even need to use the force.

"So..how are you?"

Tobbi smiled, "I'm good, don't worry, this look isn't permanent, I'll find a way to heal myself; this empire hides many secrets that some consider being unnatural. It's strong, and thus it'll make me strong."

Rebecca's sighed in relief, and her eyes wandered a bit; it wasn't the most favorable look for Tobbi, but his looks were still seemingly aesthetic; she was curious, so she asked as subtly as she could.

"Those days we spent on Correlia by ourselves, are they still possible?"

Tobbi laughed, "Of course! The damage only affects my upper body, so don't worry about a thing."

Rebecca once again sighed in relief and punched Tobbi's shoulder while laughing, "Good because nobody likes a eunuch."

Tobbi smiled softly; he missed moments like this. "Please, join everyone else inside; they're at the fireplace."

So the duo made their way inside, happy to catch up with one another once again Tobbi couldn't help but feel that he was going to have a lot of fun this day. He might even have the most fun here.


TAG: No one.

 

[corinthia]

IC: Imperatrix Hesper
Adascopolis ​

The soiree was a grand one indeed; Dark Lord Xarxes had truly outdone himself, bedecking his Arkanian home in twinkling, glorious decoration. Sweet music filled the air, and tantalizing smells of feast-foods and hors d'oeuvres teased at the Empress' senses. The heels of her silvered shoes clacked against the polished floor of grand hall as she made her entrance, eddies of frost chasing her feet.

Her eyes slid across the scene before her, searching for the host of such a fine event as she paused momentarily.

She looked a picture of ethereal, icy beauty: her golden hair hung straight and slick down her back, shining with scented grooming oil and held in place not by her typical blackened, thorny crown, but by a silver-plated version of the Crown of the Imperatrix, its crooked peaks glittering in the low light. Her eyes, ever mysterious pools of moonlight and shade, were accentuated by white shimmer swept across her eyelids, which caught the light of the hall in the most alluring fashion. She wore a gown as white as virgin snow: its shimmering beaded bodice was crafted with fine crystals and gemstones, and its silken skirt was just the slightest bit sheer, so as to show the barest suggestion of her slender legs beneath it. And draped about her shoulders was a feathered robe, soft and luxurious, its fluffiness dancing gently about her bare shoulders. On her fingers were simple silver rings, and her nails were trimmed and polished to a shine.

​

She smiled as she caught the attention of some of her Councilors that had gathered, Lord Xarxes being among them. Drifting over to them, she trailed a retinue of guards behind herself; both her personal Imperial Guards and Hesperian Guardsmen alike. Their Imperial robes of emerald green and Hesperian robes of black and phrik had each been adorned with a simple sprig of holly and berries pinned to their left breast, a cheerful pop of merriment among otherwise gravely serious protectors.

Approaching, she bowed her head in greeting towards Lords Vexx, Invadator, Xxys, Anhra, Draconis, and of course, the ineffable host, Lord Xarxes, and his wife, Alcina Adasca. "Dark tidings, all. I hope this holiday season is finding you well."

TAG: @Drakul_Xarxes, @dragonsith13, @Grievance Vexx, @Reiis Invadator, @Ānhrā Māhnîu, @Darth Xxys​

 

[Xarxes]

IC: Lord Drakul Xarxes
​

The lord of the castle's eyes wandered from his esteemed guests to the most radiant visitor of all, entering in all her deific glory. The Empress Hesper, clothed in snowy folds, permitting a rare hint of lusty allusion in its sheer design, caught the attention of all. As if on cue, the orchestra swelled its mournful tune into a majestic anthem in recognition of such an arrival.

Darth Xarxes was not one to be caught unprepared. Taking his bow deeply before his liege, his spouse doing the same, he hailed the Empress as was proper. "Hail, and dark tidings in return, my Empress! Welcome to our home."

Alcina smiled sweetly yet sincerely, her heavy lashes and cunning lips curling in a suspicious manner as she looked back and forth between her husband and the Empress before banishing the thought. Amaunator was loyal, zealous even, but would not, for lack of a better term, grovel before the Empress, especially not in the romantic sort of way likely suspected of by many.

Xarxes rose, sweeping aside the violet shoulder cape as he gestured towards one of the grand hall's side chapels. "I have a gift for you, Empress Hesper, in honor of this great wintertide celebration, though I cannot grant it here." He smiled slyly, knowing very well that the Empress had spoken of her desire for such a gift in the past, and only now was he able to properly gift it.

Tag: @corinthia