Senator's Gala

[Meira]

OOC:This is an exclusive event. To see if you have a character who might be invited, follow this link


The annual Senator's Gala is hosted this year at the Skydome Botanical Gardens. The entire facility has been rented out so that only the most elite of society might enjoy the festivities.

Within, many areas have been set up for the attendees' enjoyment, including a large dance floor next to the raised stage where a number of musical groups will perform. Not far away, gaming tables have been arranged for those who wish to try their hand at a friendly round of Pazaak or other challenging game. Also, there is a whole level reserved for tables where invited guests might enjoy a high class meal with friends and associates. The whole of the facility is open, should guests choose to peruse the many pathways and take in the beauty of fauna from across the galaxy. And above it all, a large balcony looks over the whole of the festivities, with nothing but the glass dome and sky above.

Guests need not worry for their safety. In addition to a crack security team, three Jedi have volunteered to watch over the Gala, ensuring that all are safe as they enjoy their evening. Make sure you have your ticket at the door! Enjoy the evening among the Galaxy's most prominent figures!

[Jace]

Markus stood at the entrance of the Botanical gardens, he was waiting for his credentials to get checked out. Security was extremely tight, it slowed things down, but Markus respected that some people were taking it seriously.

The security officer nodded, and Markus walked into the gardens, automatically looking up at the glass ceiling. Most people tended to do this when they entered; there was something about that ceiling that was captivating. Many people were already here, some Markus knew and some he didn't. Markus didn't much care for these ceremonies, but it was something that came with the status.

He knew that the Gala also held opportunities by meeting the other powerful inhabitants of the galaxy. Markus took one of the drinks as the waiter offered it to him. He raised the glass to his snout and then lowered it. Drinking out of normal glasses was messy when it came to Bothans. He decided against it lest he ruin his new and quite expensive attire.

Some of the more interesting players had yet to arrive so in the meantime Markus socialized with some old friends.

[Squee]

This was certainly… odd, if Queen Sali of Onderon did say so herself. Her guards had escorted her as far as security, and that was as far as they were allowed. Reluctant, the Royal Guards had been on leaving their Queen to her own devices within the Skydome. Despite flutters of nervousness at leaving her loyal bodyguards, she had managed to paint a reassuring smile and devote a few words toward security as well. And she was with her senator. And security was tight. And there were Jedi on duty. With the bit of encouragement, they allowed themselves to be waved off by Sali but begged to be called so should she leave the Gardens. Guards, you could never just get rid of them.

Sali was presenting herself as a queen at this gathering. She was dressed in one of her fancy wardrobes, though not fluffy and sticking out in all directions. It lay loosely upon her form, a pale cream as a primary color and browns that lined the other outlines. Loose gold trinkets and scatters of red and green could be found across the decorated and most definitely honored gown. Her hair was done to near perfection, thanks to her ever faithful handmaiden Nelani. Heavens bless that woman. What Sali didn’t or couldn’t do for herself, Nelani picked up the slack in the wardrobe and appearance department. That meant the several complicated braids twisted over the long locks and tied to drape down the back with the rest of the somewhat waved hair, draping across her shoulder. Nelani most certainly did not forget the crown that distinguished Sali from the rest of the guests. It was a rather casual crown compared to those in Sali’s possession, but she liked it just fine.

She was here on a small getaway from the nobles and duties as Queen of Onderon. She had decided to pay her own senator a visit, scaring him out of his wits when she arrived. Her decision was based off of mostly whim. She liked her Senator much and merely wished to see him. And to talk about some of the nonsense he had been sending her back home. For goodness sake, could he just skip the introduction and blatantly state the point? Sali bored listening to conversations that repeated itself in endless circles.

Feeling slightly uncomfortable and exposed without her guards, Sali did her best to keep her head high. She walked right across the dance floor, unused at this time, and to one side of the room. Chairs arranged themselves here, without tables, facing one another or lined up side by side to face the opposite side of the room. The guests were trickling in, but many of them recognized their friends and would go to greet them, stay around, and talk. She was still waiting on her own friend to turn his face up.

Picking a seat with a clear view of the door, Sali found herself sitting and suddenly looking upward at the ceiling. It was a dome, yes, and she’d seen many pretty domes in her short lifetime. This was one of those pretty domes. It brought a faint smile to her face as her gaze leveled once more, watching the other guests filter among themselves and already calling around for drink requests.

Sooner or later she was going to ask one for herself.

[Meira]

Finally, something Rook could really get into... a party! Not to say that Rook hadn't enjoyed himself since his arrival on Coruscant. Quite the opposite. He had surprised himself with the joy he took in even the most mundane of paperwork. But a chance to cut loose and act like the Rook his admiring fans back home knew and loved, well... he could barely contain his glee. He had to remind himself, however, that this party wasn't to be attended by the loud and rambunctious youthful nobles of his home planet. No, this wasn't technically a party at all. It was a Gala. He couldn't even say the word without sounding like a snob. The Gala would be attended by the highest of classes and tightest of asses.

He chuckled to himself as he thought that. If he could find a suitable ear or two, he would be sure to use that phrase. It would bring the house down.

Soon enough, his vehicle arrived at the venue. From the darkness outside, Rook could see lights dancing out of the prominent dome of the gardens. A beautiful place, he couldn't deny it. He then spent the next few minutes at security where he was hassled about his ticket. Technically, they had told him, he was only a Junior Senator, and shouldn't be allowed in.

Technically... He had replied, a royal air suddenly pulsating from his presence. I am Rook Solosten, Prince of Corellia. He entered the gardens, leaving slack jawed and apologetic security personnel in his wake.

Once inside, Rook did feel slightly out of his element. The party was even less energetic than he had anticipated. But he wasn't about to give up on the senators just yet. Things were just getting started, after all. Surely they would let their hair down after a few rounds of alcohol. But as it was at the moment, Rook felt uncomfortable. He straightened his jacket, it's bright chromium buttons catching the light. His plain white shirt sported a slightly high collar, but no tie. Instead, he wore a pendant with the Corellian Royal Seal around his neck and a cummerbund around his waist. His jet black pant bore the Corellian blood stripe down the outside of his legs. When he noticed them, it brought back to uncomfortable memory of his friend, and the entire reason why he was here in the first place. Right, a drink was in order.

At the bar, Rook ordered a glass of Corellian wine. As his drink was presented, Rook caught sight of a woman sitting alone. From this angle, he could not see the crown on her head, but that would not likely have stopped him. He quickly asked for another glass and approached the woman.

Excuse me, miss. He said, approaching from behind her right shoulder. But would you care to sample some of the galaxy's best beverage? He had barely finished the question when he noticed the crown. A royal? Hmm... Pardon me, m'lady. He said with a bow of his head. Nevertheless, he still offered the drink.

[Catatafish]

A ball. Nel had always felt the Republic Senators were always quick to indulge in the more frivolous aspects of societal life on Coruscant, yet, as a member of the high council of the jedi order, he could not disregard the invitation. As his security documents and invitation were thoroughly scanned by the appointed guards, Nel cogitated over the lack of jedi knights at watch at the Skydome entrance, but did not linger over those concerns. They will arrive shortly.

When security cleared him, Nelgakai walked inside the heavily guarded skydome, and gazed around the gardens. Truly a grandiose sight, especially for a jedi so in touch with nature's blessings, in a planet-wide city; He knew the place well. Often, when not acting on behalf of the jedi council, he walked the grounds alone, or sat in meditation among the flora, in communion with the force. Yet, tonight, Nel's presence here was not very soothing for him.

His simple jedi robes looked penurious in comparison to the emblazoned garments of the other attendants. Distinguished guests all, from the senate, royalty, and other upper castes of galactic society, under one roof. The potential for disaster was great, from both outside and inside sources. Nel, aware of this dormant danger, scanned the room thoroughly, walking slowly through the still scarce crowds, his arms hidden each inside the opposite's sleeve, and his hood covering most of his head.

However, while wandering through the gardens, Nel spotted a familiar figure. A Bothan, such as himself, yet younger and with a confident stride to him. Nel had heard of him; Markus, the senator from his home system, Bothawui. As the young senator conversed with others, Nel walked towards him, to convey his respects. "Senator, I am honored to meet you, finally." said Nelgakai, bowing his head slightly at the younger Bothan.

[10Tickler]

There is no Safety in numbers. No matter what anyone tells you, Safety is one of those oxymorons, especially when the numbers around you are others in similar positions, Seeking Favor, desiring power greater then that which they had. In a Target-rich environment such as this...Celebration, Damien had his work cut out from him. Security for the Senator's Gala was tight, strict as could be, with Poison Snoopers working duty over the buffets of Rare Delicacies and bubbling beverages and Weapons Scanners covering every single person who entered the building, no matter which entrance.

Not that anyone without High enough Security clearance could even get close to the Botanical Gardens tonight. It had Taken 4 hours earlier in the day for Damien to Get through the Security Checkpoints, even in his Rather Dapper Uniform, which marked him as a Republic Senate Guardsman.

It was a New position for him, a bone thrown by the Military to a soldier who was prematurely old due to a Catastrophic Series of events that he had been unable to Predict or control. Even so, Dressed in the Full Black of the Guard, his Hat Low over his eyes, Damien took this Job even more seriously then his last.

At least he wasn't working the door, That would have been hell itself. Standing and Scanning every lifeform that passed, over a thousand from Hundreds of worlds, every shape and size, differing cultures that may or may not get offended... No sir, he didn't envy those boys one bit.

However, Not being on the Door meant that he had a Much, much more Tedious job tonight. The official Term? "General Bodyguard." Unofficially, he was the Bolt-stopper. If some madman managed to get through, his Job was to Get The Important people to safety, Using his own body (which was considerably larger then some of the politicians here) as a Shield to the Defense of the people who "ran" the Galaxy.

More like the people who argue about everything he thought to himself, smirking. As much as he'd have liked to have been an actual invite to this event, at the same time, Damien was a simple person, unaccustomed to the Intricacies of Politics. He spoke his mind too Frequently for that.

So, while not bitter, he was annoyed at seeing all of the Dancing, both physical and Political that was happening on the floor. Damien Had his job though, and while this position was sure to advance his rank somewhat, he wasn't sure that was even what he wanted. With a Forced smile, he watched the Proceedings, his eyes Ever-wary as he kept a close eye to be sure that nothing Untoward could happen.

[Chyresh]

Chyresh continued to pace around the facility, it had been what he had been doing all night. He had yet been forced to take someone out; everyone seemed to be on their best behavior. There were a few people making loud commotions, but at the site of the three Jedi walking around, they quickly hushed up. An uneventful party, and an uneventful night. Chyresh never did expect that much action, but he had yet to see any.

The only reason he took the assignment was to get clear of the Jedi Temple, and to hopefully get a little bit of action. He knew it was bad to want to fight, and shed blood, but being devoted to the art of combat and see no action for months had been getting old. Every day he would wake up and train younglings, if he was not training younglings he was spending time training himself, trying to learn Juyo form.

Chyresh let out a small chuckle as he passed the door, the local militia stood outside. The Gala's security had been tight, but one of the most important jobs was handed to local militia. He was not complaining, he just found it out, being such an important event. At the sight of Jedi High Councilor Nelgakai, Chyresh's grin faded. He had now not only had to present himself with a little class, but he had to make sure he was not getting side tracked from his job. He did not fear doing this, but now that a member of the Jedi Council was here, it was mandatory.

Chyresh ran his hand over his snout, quickly turning to walk away from him, luckily he probably would not be spotted. He knew the fellow Jedi could sense him, but hopefully he would avoid speaking with him. As Chyresh's pace slowed he began doing his normal routine. He began looking around the room, watching for anything suspicious. A few had caught his attention, but after a couple moments they went about their business.

He rolled his eyes as he was now beginning to pass by those sitting at tables. Most of the people were up dancing, gambling or chatting with others, but there was a hefty amount located in the seated area. He could hear each politician brag about themselves, their accomplishments, and even any family members that made them proud. Always at each others throats, if you're not the best then you have to work your hardest until you get there. Chyresh knew that unfortunately to get there many would lie, not only to those they love but to their people as well.

Chyresh had a disliking for politicians; he viewed them as people who cared about no one. Most of them did not understand the hell of war; some had never been in any combat at all. A good leader was someone who understands the struggles of the people, not one who is protected by a rich family all of their life. Though they seemed to do more harm, they still served a purpose. The Jedi were not made to control a government, they were there to protect, not lead. They did things their own way, and many did not like the ways of the Jedi.

Nevertheless, he hid his disgust for some of the louder politicians, bragging whenever they got the chance. He closed his eyes, letting the force flow through him, the room was lively. He could feel the hundreds of bodies in the facility, some emitting a far more powerful aura than others. Chyresh's mind wandered down to his belt, attached were his two lightsabers. The two 'pieces of metal' that had saved his life countless of times, but had unfortunately taken the lives' of many as well.

[Squee]

For many minutes Sali found herself sitting, waiting, feeling out of place. She sat politely enough, though sat without giving it much thought that her back was straight and her chin was high. It was among too many meetings and hearings and the ground education that she sit so. It became second nature after a while of discomfort. But she had soon relaxed against the back of the chair, letting her spine curve just a little. The pressure relief on her lower back was almost bliss.

Many of the Senators and upper classmen passed her by with stares fixed on the crown. Maybe a slight bow and a mumble of greeting, but when she offered the random a chat, one might babble something about his other friends or she might say something about needing to use the refresher. Sali snorted. This was why she never went anywhere. Royalty was considered different, and though not on Onderon, she was still given a berth, as if one of her guards might materialize from the shadows and poke them with a stun baton.

The people crowd was beginning to thicken and dances were to be seen. A roar of laughter or a challenge of outrage spoke out behind her where the bold gamblers spent their time conning each other out of credits. She was beginning to feel silly sitting by herself, her one friend no where to be found. In fact, a little color appeared on her cheeks, burning a bright embarrassment. Sali was about to rise to approach the bar in order to request a drink when a voice made her jump. She quickly turned around, seeing first the glass of wine. Her eyes quickly went from the offered drink up to the face of the speaker. A touch of a smile passed her own face. Maybe not all were trying to avoid her. But when he excused himself and bowed his head, that small smile flipped.

“Oh, ignore the crown,” Sali said in a rush. “If it were up to me, I couldn’t have worn it. Scares off everyone you think you might even have the chance to speak to.” Up, down, the dark eyes went, the wine glass then to the man. “And what would be your opinion on the best beverage in all the stars and planets?”

Sali reached up and accepted the glass, carefully carrying it from her shoulder height to just in front of her, thumbs playing with the glass.

“Here, maybe you’ll be the first to actually sit and talk to me. The senators act as if I’m an animal ready to rip their head off their shoulders.” She dipped her head to one of the seats next to her, tasting the wine just after. Her eyebrows shot up. It was good. Very good.

[Jace]

Markus was somewhat nonplussed as the bothan Jedi approached him. It was not the fact that a Jedi was approaching him but the fact that he held a mild resemblance to Markus. Markus returned the bow, with a deeper and for the most part over exaggerated one of his own.

"The honor is mine, Master Jedi. Though I don't believe I have the pleasure of knowing your name?"

Markus didn't worship the Jedi or fear them as some did. When Markus saw Jedi, he saw a tool for the Republic, an asset. They had great power and in terms of strategy, could greatly tip the scales in any way to the Republics favor.

Yet they say they are not soldiers he thought with mild disgust

Markus would keep his composure and be polite with this one though. He was not only a fellow bothan, but seemingly a high ranking Jedi, and that could be useful. He would play the part of a friendly aristocrat for now...

[Zarkan]

Iriel was hustled through the at least six security check points before she was finally allowed into the Gardens. Already the massive Glass vaulted buildings and it's paved walk ways were congested with senators and other notables of the galaxy making walking though the sea of perfume a utter nightmare. She gave only the weakest of the customary pleasantries as she desperately made her way to any where less crowded and noise than the cluttered entry ways. The young woman slumped against the bar as she finally reached the bar and asked the keeper for a glass of water as much as she would have liked something harsher to blind herself this was not the greatest of places to get drunk. She took the glass from the man with a forced smile before making her way away from him gather a few pieces of bread from a near by buffet she dropped down on one of the numerous benches.

She chewed on them slowly washing down the bundles of starch with quick sips of water before finally finishing the last one and brushing her red dress off and pulling a small baggy from her purse. Pouring a handful of pills from the small bag she downed them with the last of the water before scanning the small area shoved between the gaming rooms and the large ball floor on the far side of the area. To her far left she could see another woman sitting down, but being her normal self see decided to stay put after a time she finally thought to join the woman, but with another man joining her she wasn't sure her company would be wanted. But a look to the right made her face blanch and she stood up quickly. I am not speaking to HIM now She thought to her self as the portly CEO of Industrial Automation started making his way over to her. She attempted to look like she hadn't seen him and certainly wasn't avoiding him as she made her way perhaps a bit suspiciously quickly not even paying much attention to them as she glanced back. "Well, hello I couldn't help noticing you two over her all alone I don't believe I've ever met either of you before I am Iriel Valamor." she said sweetly and perhaps with a little relieved as she watched the CEO retreat back and into the gamers den.

[Meira]

Rook's features echoed the woman's initial smile. He had guessed right. This woman felt just as out of place here as he did. And once he had spotted the crown, he understood why. If there was one thing Rook had learned since his arrival on Coruscant, it was that Senators and Nobility didn't really mix well. Sure, the Senator from one's own planet was always cordial and friendly, Donald Kail was a testament to that, but Senators from other planets, well... they didn't tend to care for royalty that they didn't specifically pay homage to. And so Rook's royal status didn't matter that much on this planet. To all the Senators here, Rook was first a Junior Senator, and second a Prince.

The lady's request that he ignore the crown was an easy enough one to comply with. Rook had seen his fair share of crowns. When she asked him to sit, he smiled again and pulled a chair out from under the table. Before he sat, however, Rook introduced himself, hoping that by letting the lady know of his own noble status, she might relax. Allow me to introduce myself. I am Rook Solosten, Prince of Corellia. He then sat before adding his second title. And most recently, Junior Senator under Donald Kail. He said the last bit with a laugh. She might ask for the story behind his being posted here, and if she did, he would give the simple comical version... rather than the long and disgracing one.

When the lady took a sip of the wine, his smile doubled into a grin. He had not been exaggerating when he had said it was the galaxy's best. We Corillians pride ourselves in our fine exports, from our first class ships, to our wines. He relaxed into the back of his chair, taking a small drink from his own glass and never taking his eyes off the lady. She was young, age had yet to take claim to her features. He wondered idly at her rank. Was she a Princess? A Queen? He was about to ask her name when another woman approached. Judging by her informal greeting, and the sight of a portly man suddenly changing directions behind her, this woman was escaping a potentially boring conversation with a rather unpleasant looking man. Rook smiled and stood as the woman introduced herself.

A pleasure, Miss Valamor. He said with a slight bow of the head. Please, join us. He then pulled out another chair so that the three might sit facing each other. My name is Rook Solosten, and this is... He trailed off and looked over to his royal companion so that she might offer her name.

[Squee]

She was sitting up again, erect and attentive. Old habits die hard. Whoever had said so couldn’t have been true enough. Sali forced herself to recline against the chair’s back. No hearing, and most definitely not any noble she had to sit straight and tall for. Every now and again her eye would wander to the senators, who appeared to be half and half on relaxation and sharpness. Those gambling or already heavy drinking appeared more relaxed than those standing to the far side of the room, having a chat and eating delights.

Sali couldn’t have been happier when Rook sat down. Thank the stars that he wasn’t afraid to speak to her. It was… unusual but not disliked by the queen. He was a pretty face enough – reminding her much of the nobles she was seeing thrice a week or more – with the sharp features of a young man. She did notice the red stripe standing out strongly from the black of his pants, and already given the hint of his ethnicity, she didn’t seem surprised at all when he announced himself from Corellia. Still, her surprise showed.

It was the prince part. What was a prince… oh. Junior Senator? However had that happened? Why wasn’t he back on his home planet? Rook, the third prince. He wasn’t next in line, but that did not mean that one just became a junior senator. If Sali had been in his position, she wouldn’t have wanted to be a junior senator. Most curious.

She eyed the glass when Rook bragged a bit on his planet’s exports. Yes, yes, of course. Finest in the world, yes, yes, she knew. Boring stuff. She wouldn’t deny the drink it’s quality. Sali had had her share of wines, and most were good. This Corellian wine was among those ‘good’ ones. “I’ll admit your planet has a very tasty wine then.” She was on the verge of saying his name, but she stopped herself. Which title would he go by? And as she went to state her own name, another woman appeared by them, tossing glances over her shoulder and talking swiftly, though sweetly.

Sali leaned a little to the side, watching as a man rested his gaze briefly on the trio. Making up his mind, he turned away, disappearing into the other bodies with a lumbering waddle in his gait. Sali, unlike Rook, didn’t stand for the newcomer but gave a pleasant smile.

“Yes, as, eh, Rook said, you’re welcome to join us. I’m Sali Hyria, Queen of Onderon.” She had stumbled on Rook’s name, still very unsure what he might title himself as. She tipped her head at him, giving him a look and let her uncertainty show for a moment. Sali raised her glass and sipped the wine.

[Catatafish]

Nel observed the young senator's reaction to his introduction. An astute being, evidently, respectful and courteous to the elder Bothan. However, Nel was aware his counterpart in this conversation, was a politician after all; Never a trustworthy congregation. Yet, Nel was not about to sever a possible method for the Jedi council to monitor the senate, before the bond is even created, by not returning the senator's obviously apprehensive gallantry.

With an impish, yet firendly smile, Nel giggled slightly and replied: "Forgive me, senator. My name is Nelgakai Sei'lya." Nel bowed down before the younger Bothan once again as he introduced himself. Afterwards, he stood back upright and again hid his arms, each inside the opposite's sleeve, still sporting a smile under his hood. "I trust tonight's festivities are not keeping you from important duties among the senate..."

[Zarkan]

"Thank you" Iriel said softly as the man who named himself as Rook Solosten pulled a chair out for her. She set lightly on the seat before Smiling broadly. "I apologize for using you two as and excuse to avoid Mr. Blarche, I swear I have never met a more dry and dull man in my whole life." Shaking her head. She smiled at the woman whom offered her name next and bowed slightly at her waist in the woman's direction and winking her silver eyes to show that is was a joke. "Yes, again thank you both for your hospitality and your rather small table." she said with a slight laugh as she leaned back and crossed her left leg over her right. "I'm afraid I don't know much about either Correlia or Onderon." Iriel remarked calmly showing that she had at least caught some of their previous talk. "Nor royalty though I've been called one before." she mused slightly. "I'm sorry I suppose I shouldn't keep you at a disadvantage nor wondering why I'm here." Smiling she set back up resting her arms on the table after brushing a stray few strands of blond hair from her eyes. "I'm the CEO of Edessa Security Systems and prelate of the helix system."

[Makiro]

Avirod Escara - or, as he was more officially known: His Excellency Senator Avirod Sarala of Naboo - sat miserably in the back seat of his airspeeder. The plush seat held him perfectly as he cradled a small glass of Andoan wine and fiddled distractedly with the collar of his robe.

The speeder itself was a marvel of design. Graceful, flowing lines coupled with practical aerodynamics made it a perfect match for more traditional Nabooan aesthetic principles. Inside the speeder, underneath its transparisteel canopy, comfortable, white velvet seats had been installed amidst a veritable forest of (sustainable) wooden panelling. The speeder had even been fitted with ecologically-friendly engines - another Nabooan favourite - to ensure that it had only a minor impact on whatever beautiful worlds the Senator happened to be visiting. Needless to say, the less beautiful, less ecologically-friendly Coruscanti atmosphere had already ruined the navy paintwork.

As the speeder descended towards the Skydome Botanical Gardens, in which this year's exclusive Senator's Gala was being held, Avirod drained the last few dregs of his wine and checked his appearance in a small mirror, mounted on the rear of the driver's seat.

The speeder came to a smooth halt in front of the Skydome, and Senator Sarala climbed out of the luxurious airspeeder, signalling to his Nabooan driver to return when he called. Turning to the entrance, the senator smiled graciously at the burly security officers - a necessary precaution, he knew - and handed over his official Senate Pass.

Barely a few moments passed before the senator was waved into the Gala by a thick, hairy arm. He thanked the officers and walked into the curious heat of the gardens. Spotting a group of his fellow senators, he straightened the front of his verdant robes and wandered over to engage them in conversation, taking a glass of bubbling liquid from a serving droid as he went.

[Meira]

The Queen? He should have known that. He had heard about her sudden ascent to power. It had been a sad tale, one that all royal families knew well. It could happen to any of them, after all. But Rook pushed the thought out of his mind. It was most definitely not table conversation. He returned Queen Sali's nod, his first name would do just fine. His family never understood his favor for the more casual. They had always tried to instill in him a sense of pride in his position. But when you're destined to, well... just be there, it looses its shine.

As Iriel sat down and introduced herself, Rook signaled to the bar for another glass of wine. The bartender hopped-to, bringing it over quickly. Rook thanked the man and offered the glass to the new arrival, who was giving her title.

I must admit, Miss Valamore, I am as unfamiliar with your work as you are with my home planet. He said, taking his seat. Please, this is Corellian wine, the best in the galaxy. He said, a grin dawning his features as he cast a sidelong glance at Sali. Have a taste of Corellia, and indulge my curiosity. I believe I've heard of Edessa Security Systems, but only in passing conversation. And I am entirely unaware of the helix system.

[Val - Warning:Contains Sarcasm]

The important guests continued to arrive as night wore on. The party had not been going on for long but it seemed almost everyone would be here. Surely, everyone is nearly here.
Surely they can't expect to fit many more people into one place? Val sighed, rolling her eyes and continuing to pace. She never liked politicians really, they seemed so... false? No, false was such a weak word. They were scheming, calculating, hypocritical.

My job is to guard, not to judge. Reminding herself seemed to help slightly. She looked around the room. She could see the bar, crowded with senators wanting more. The dance floor where they all seemed to be huddling together doing some sort of dance she could barely describe - never mind name. Some sat around tables, sipping wine and talking.

She looked away and continued to the next corner of the roof. She could see the entrance from here. It seemed to be in order at least. The guards were being rather thorough with their searches. It made less problems for her that way really. She moved back to the dome, looking in once again. She could see the other jedi around the room. Everyone seemed content at the moment. At least there were no fights, and she could not feel any major disturbances at the moment.

She tapped her lightsabre. She knew it was there, but the feeling of cool metal reassured her of its presence. The people down below may enjoy looking up at the pretty glass dome, but Val knew if someone else arrived on the roof they probably wouldn't hesitate to break it. Glass isn't particularly sniper deterring.

[Makiro]

Senator Sarala sighed as he pushed open the small metal door that led to the bitter cold of the building's roof. A wave of fresh - if slightly polluted - air washed over him as he stepped out onto the almost precarious ledge surrounding the Gardens' immense dome.

Navigating the precipice, taking great care not to trip on the hem of his robes, he found a spot where the distance between the upturned glass bowl and imminent death was slightly greater and, hitching up his robe, sat cross-legged on the floor. Cradling a glass of ruby-coloured brandy he sighed, and inspected the stitching on his dark green under-trousers.

As the carefully ordered lines of air traffic wove their way across the cloudy night sky, the Senator took a deep drink of brandy. He hoped that his fellow party guests would not notice his absence for some time - although in reality, he knew that the sly kath hounds he called friends would already be imagining up the most ridiculous scandals to explain it.

Sighing again, he thought of Naboo, and of his home - infinitely more beautiful than this turbulent ecumeopolis, yet at the same time infinitely less vibrant and glittering. Draining the last dregs of brandy from his glass, he made a mental note to take a leave of absence as soon as all of his important Senatorial business had been concluded and stood up to leave.

[Vreem Took]

(OOC: Basically, if anyone wants to rp, military figure, senator, council member or one of the Jedi guards, then just respond to this post, I’m up for anything.)

I had been an ongoing debate whether or not Vreem would attend this prestigious event. After all he had not long since returned from Korriban and he didn’t know if this was the right time to be off at some grand social event was. But his position on the Council meant that there was duty to fulfil. He wasn’t ordered to go attend, but each serving seated member had received an invitation and since he’d served on the council for over a year now and he had yet to really meet any of the senators. Of course, he’d spoken to a few but only briefly and often in relation to missions upon worlds under their jurisdiction. It was time to mingle with the bureaucrats, put names to faces and make friends, mostly on a political level. Good relations could serve to help him and the Jedi against the coming tide, which the Council had now been informed about.

His robes were the same as always, no doubt the senators and high standing political figures attending this party would be wearing clothing of a more lavish nature, but the Jedi were simply expected to wear their normal robes, they had no robes which might be considered eloquent or more suiting for this event. But Vreem didn’t care terribly for trivialities such as appearance.

He sat in the craft enthralled by his thoughts. It was an odd situation he was in, he had a driver for this journey, a chauffeur of sorts who would take him to the Gala. Even as a Jedi Master and member of the High Council he was not comfortable with the fact money had been spent simply to take him to this event. Seen as a figure of importance was something he was used to in the Temple, but that merely provoked respect or a few gracious words, never money. It was not something he wanted to get used to either.

Exiting the speeder he thanked the pilot before making his way towards the central chamber, and main floor of the night’s events. He was soon ushered in after showing his invitation and pass. His eyes quickly spotted one of the Jedi guards for the night, Master Chyresh was a respected member of the Order who’s skills with a lightsaber were well known. Vreem had gone through the list of the guards with the rest of the Council; the assignments had been decided by all of them. Master Chyresh was an obvious choice; his skills would assure comfort for the members, even though it was deemed that this event would stir no trouble. This was a well guarded party, the likelihood of anything remotely dangerous happening was slim. Hence the other two assignments were more lenient ones, both were Knights but only one Vreem knew about. Ryn, it seemed the Knight was eager to remain a part of this Order and this assignment would allow him to get back on track after the incident on Korriban. Finally the third was a recently promoted Knight one of the Council members had suggested, Master Beleren he believed, under the belief that this would serve as a good way to kick start her independence.

Vreem would try and see all three of them throughout the course of the night, most likely whilst trying to avoid politicians. But Ryn was his main target, he had not seen the Knight since Korriban and then he had not looked in the best of states. Now Vreem stood within the party, unsure of who to approach now.

[Chyresh]

Chyresh continued to make his way around the Gala; it had become a rather boring job. He would rather be back at the Temple practicing the Juyo form. He had grown to enjoy training much more when he began this form. It's unpredictability and unique moves attracted Chyresh to it. He rolled his neck as he passed by the seating area once more. Most of the people there were still bragging about themselves, Chyresh just shook his head. He would avoid speaking with any of them at all costs. He had been surprised not many had asked him questions; he received a few stares, nothing out of the ordinary. He was the only Master on guard; the other two Jedi guards were Knights. One of which had just received the rank.

Maybe I was a little over-qualified for this event he thought. The Council had asked him to be one of the guards, but he was not completely sure why. It was because of his skills with a lightsaber he knew, but any other knight could have easily done the job. No criminal with half a brain would even attempt to cause a commotion and the sight of Jedi Council Members and the other Jedi Knights was surely enough to put people in their place. Plus they were politicians, they had to be on their best behavior here, or they would risk losing their statues in the Senate. Chyresh watched as a loud commotion could be heard from the entrance, the Queen of Onderon had arrived. He quickly returned back to his job of wandering around the dome watching over everyone. As the moments passed he turned his attention back to the queen, she was now sitting with a man, and by the way he was dressed Chyresh could tell he was from Corellia, and another woman. Chyresh had no clue who she was. As another presence could be felt he turned to the entrance. Master Took had just arrived.

Chyresh quickly wished he could pull the hood of his robe over his head as Master Took scanned the room and saw him. He never enjoyed being surrounded by the Council when he was on a mission, it never obstructed his work, it just made him feel a little uneasy. He decided he should talk to the Council Member; he too seemed as if he did not enjoy the Gala. Chyresh nodded to himself, many Jedi did not enjoy getting involved with the politicians, but it was necessary. The Council members had a duty to come to these events and try to create peace and friendship between the two organizations. Especially now, the darkside had begun it’s rise to power once more. After Master Took returned from his mission on Korriban it was made clear, the Darkside was rising once more in power, gaining more followers. War seemed inevitable soon; they would have to suppress the darkside once more and bring the force back into balance. As Chyresh walked through the crowd he bowed to Master Took, "Master Took," he muttered, his eyes continued to scan the room. He had to continue his job, even if he speaking to others.