Session export: Voidbreaker Social #68

Nathan wrung his hands together as he prepared to walk into the ballroom. Social events were always stressful. They were always a bit too much, too many people, too much noise, change, activity. He wasn’t used to being in busy places, never mind expected to be present and not just scurrying through.

But today he had invited someone to the party. Mikhail was already arconan and thus.. invited anyway as all of them were. He couldn’t dodge a party he had invited someone to.

Though that in itself was an issue. One Zig was helping navigate, but alas. Anxiety.

Still, he was dressed nicely enough. For him. A clean polo shirt and pants, plain colours but they matched well enough.

Zig wasn’t here yet, but he couldn’t sit and wait any longer so with a steeling breath Nathan Breeze entered the ballroom, leaving the door open behind him for any following guests. He awkwardly waved in Doon’s direction, and hugged the permiter of the room as he wandered inside.

“Come on, Arden!” Sagitta smiled at her sister. Asani and herself had been hanging out a lot, so she wanted to take the chance to hang out with her other sister. “It might be fun! There might be tons of people!”

They go through the opened doors, “Ohhh!” Then she glanced over to the side to someone hugging a …wall? Pretty cute too. “Okay then! I think we are early so-“ she stopped when she sees Doon, “WHAT THE FRACK?!”

Her voice could be clear across the room without hesitation she ran up to him, “what the kriff is this?!” Then her cheeks went red as she was appalled. In the shock, she took a step back, “Wait! What kind of party is this?!” What has she brought her sister into?!

Arden trailed behind Sagitta, a second shadow ever a step and a half behind. A palpable lethargy oozed from the core of the young Pantoran woman, dragging her steps into a languid shuffle. Her loose bun, a haphazard arrangement of purple and blue hues, clung to her head with an air of indifference, as if it barely cared to be there at all. Navy bags under her eyes marred the otherwise striking expanse of her vivid blue skin, testament to nights spent battling elusive slumber. Draped in dark casual garments, their wrinkles a testament to her personal neglect, displayed her weariness for all to see.

With a breathy sigh that seemed to carry the weight of her depleted spirit, she responded to Sagitta’s promise of “fun” with a voice that creaked with a natural fry. “That’s what I’m afraid of,” she muttered, the words emerging as if from a rusty hinge.

A few more steps, and Arden would find herself standing side by side with her sister, peering out at the scene unfolding before them. The early hour had rendered the ballroom a canvas of empty spaces, but Arden knew all too well that such emptiness did not guarantee a lackluster affair. It merely offered the promise of anticipation, a prelude to the frenetic energy that would soon saturate the air. While Sagitta eagerly darted off to immerse herself in the vibrant tapestry of mingling guests, Arden maintained her position near the fringes, content to blend into the background like an unnoticed shadow, embracing her role as a silent observer.

Arden sought solace in the margins, her silent presence a testament to her refusal to be consumed by the glare of the spotlight. While others basked in the glow of attention, she embraced the solace of anonymity, finding comfort in her quiet observations. The wallflower she had become, she understood the power of silence, of hidden truths waiting to be unveiled. And so, she stood on the periphery, her eyes absorbing the intricacies of the unfolding drama, her presence unnoticed by those entangled in their own revelries.

Nathan had managed to acquire a sandwich on a paper plate.

He stood at the edge of the room still, and when one was a wallflower it wasn’t difficult to notice when someone else joined the quiet area. There was plenty to distract from them, at least. He wasn’t about to approach her, but she was close enough that it felt rude to not at least nod in greeting.

So that he did. And then returned to doing his best to not just leave again. It was **fine**.

The Pantoran hybrid stood tall, but his presence and the darkened bags under his eyes did not match the broad shoulders. He nibbled his sandwich, glancing toward the door every so often to maintain a mental note of who was actually here.

Arden’s sigh escaped her lips like a reluctant prisoner, burdened by the inevitability of her predicament. Once caught in the man’s gaze, escape became an elusive fantasy. Though no formal contract bound her to engage, she understood the unspoken pact that tied her actions to Sagitta’s judgment. The weight of her sister’s expectations pressed upon her like a hidden threat, propelling her forward into the realm of feigned enjoyment.

Her eyes lingered on the man, meticulously assessing his unremarkable features, a Pantoran seeking solace in the shadows just as she did. A shared camaraderie in mutual avoidance, perhaps. With a begrudging shuffle, Arden closed the distance, her body language exuding a subtle air of indifference. A lazy wave of her hand broke the invisible barrier between them, a half-hearted gesture that attempted to bridge the gap. “Hey,” she muttered, her voice tinged with weary apathy, a mere token acknowledgment of their encounter.

Nathan had not expected an approach. There was immediate regret in nodding to her, but didn’t let it show on his face. Oh well. At least she didn’t seem enthusiatic? Although that could always prove to be worse. He lowered the sandwich back to the plate, his gaze remaining mostly on the noise the Mirilian woman confronting Doon was making but glancing to the Pantoran beside him regularly enough.

“Hey.” The medic had no idea what to follow that up with. She’d only approached because of his greeting, which implied she hadn’t really wanted to engage in conversation. Was it best to leave it in quiet solidarity or would it be awkward? Small talk was the worst, but an uncomfortable silence was a close second. There was an overly long pause before Nathan finally spoke again with the best thing he could think of, “At least that-” He gestured toward Doon, “-happened before everyone else got here.”

There. She didn’t have to respond if she didn’t want to, and if she did it’d be obvious. Not a question, nor small talk. A middle ground of hopefully finding a comfortable zone of sharing the shadows.

Arden’s restless fingers traced the hem of her leggings, their aimless fidgeting a feeble attempt to fill the suffocating void of silence. Time seemed to elongate, stretching like a taut wire, pulling at her fraying patience. At long last, the man stirred, his movement a tiny ripple in the stagnant air. Relief washed over her as the stillness gave way to conversation, however mundane.

His gesture drew her attention to the unfortunate display that had ensnared Doon in its clutches. A smirk toyed with the corners of Arden’s lips, the weight of her dour countenance lifting momentarily. She couldn’t help but crack a smile, the jolt of excitement and playful mischief crackling beneath the surface.

“Ya, probably,” she replied, her voice carrying the faintest trace of a somber fry. “But…” Her tone took an unexpected turn, a hint of anticipation and sly delight creeping into her words. “Personally I’d have liked it if it was a bit more public. ”

Arden’s smile grew, her eyes twinkling with a mix of wickedness and amusement. “After all, what’s a gathering without a dash of scandal, a taste of the unexpected? Take an unlucky stumble, spill a drink, and who knows where it goes…” She leaned in closer, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial, playful whisper. Arden’s hand extended in greeting with a grace born of practiced precision, a slender offering bridging the gap between strangers. “Arden.”

Sagitta’s face softened. “Oh.” She didn’t want to see her friend like this. So now, she was determined and had a goal. The Mirialan had decided to see or have him have a good time by the end of this social gathering. Course, she wasn’t going to declare this out loud. First, there needed to be more people here, surely, they would be his friends that are arriving too!

Though he could see the relief wash off of her shoulders when he mentioned it’s not a chain and whips one if he was paying attention. “Good, I don’t want to see my sister in that situation.” She shudders at the thought. She followed the trace of his eye as she saw the wine bottles and tilted her head, “Dooooooon, is there anything you want me to do? I don’t mind helping! There are not a lot of people just yet and my sister seems to finally get to know someone, so I don’t want to go back over there and bother her.” Her warm smile was back while her pink eyes glanced in Arden’s direction. He was pretty cute too! This was good!

She wanted to try the alcohol so bad but Sagitta felt protective of her sister. So, that was going to be some other time goal!

Nathan was very glad she made it easy to evade actually answering that because for him, a perfectly predictable and uneventful event, was a far less stressful one. They were rarely boring anyway with the stories often told and activties partaken in. Usually people ended up singing. Or drunk. Or both.

It was nice to watch.

He smiled though, as he took her hand with the rough grip of a man who’d worked for almost half of his life so far. He shook it, his grip was gentle and he released her hand quickly after the short shake. “Nathan. Head engineer of the Voidbreaker.”

It was the title he was proudest of, despite his more ‘important’ title. Not that he felt comfortable throwing that one around anyway.

“An engineer, you say?” Arden’s voice carried a hint of wry amusement as she turned her gaze to the swelling crowd, a tapestry of half-worn suits, casual jackets, and practiced smiles. “So, what brings you to such a… lofty affair?” Her words dripped with a touch of sardonic exaggeration, accentuating the ostentation that enveloped the event. “Perhaps you are also someone’s reluctant plus one,” she quipped, her tone lacing the word ‘lofty’ with a thick layer of irony.

Her remark hung in the air, a flicker of irreverence amidst the sea of solemnity. Arden sought to puncture the fragile bubble of grandeur, to reveal the humanity that lay concealed beneath the polished veneer. In her jest, she yearned to bridge the divide, to remind both herself and the engineer that even within these hallowed halls, a shared sense of skepticism and irony could find company.

Nathan gave a small laugh, shaking his head, “No, I was invited. Most of the Voidbreaker crew gets invited whenever the captain sets up a party. I promised a friend I’d go to every other one. They’re usually on the ship. It feels a lot less fancy, though just cause the place changed doesn’t mean the people did.”

He rubbed the back of his neck, not wanting to necessarily shut her down, but admittedly a little protective of these little get togehters. He barely ever even participated and felt awkward the whole time, but they were nice.

“I am still reluctant. But.. I skipped the last one. And the last time I tried to skip two in a row I got kidnapped by my friend on a speeder and she does not obey speed limits.” His voice was barely a mumble by the end, evident on his face that the experience had been a somewhat terrifying one.

Arden’s brow furrowed with a flicker of concern, a subtle cloud casting its shadow across her features. Nathan’s words, wrapped in the cloak of humor, stirred a dormant worry within her. A brief moment of apprehension washed over her, like a ripple on the surface of a calm pond.

“I see,” she replied, her voice carrying a measured tone that betrayed a hint of caution. “Your friend sounds… fun” Her words hung in the air, heavy with unspoken implications. For even in jest, there often lay a kernel of truth, and the thought of crossing paths with someone of questionable disposition held a glimmer of unease.

It was still so weird not living on Estle.

Before her knighting she could have just dressed and headed to the party last minute— it would have given her much more time to prepare mentally. But now that she lived in a giant rock racing along at the edge of the system… it had taken her way too long to get to Selen.

She’d have to get her own ship, for sure, because she had learned she hated public transport more than possibly anything else in the universe.

The pale Chiss stepped through the front door in a cream turtleneck sweater dress, its sleeves long and formitting, and the hem of the dress ending just below her knees. Under that was thick fabric tights of the same color, and then dark brown ankle height boots.

And of course she accessorized, with gold hoop earings and dark brown shades that hid how obscenely exhausted she was. She was here specifically to keep up appearances and not worry anyone— so shades inside it was, even though it made her feel like a tool.

She stopped once she was in the door, immediately spotting a few familiar faces. Doon, Alex’s nieces, the kriffing Praetor. The medic took a deep breath, despite it pulling at a still healing scar across her abdomen, and walked towards where the massive black Shista had set up alcoholic beverages.

She needed wine.

She needed to be more put together than this, too.

Thankfully Ruka and Alex seemed to be missing, for now. Her heart squeezed in her chest from their absence, but she wasn’t ready for those kind of conversations yet.

“She is. Just.. gets ahead of herself sometimes is all. She means well, just exciteable.” Nathan realised he may have given a bad impression of Zig. But also wasn’t quite sure how to solve that so stuck with what he said.

He nibbled his sandwich again.

Sagitta blinked, “A game?!” Then she frowned. She was never good at coming up with things. She just goes with the flow. No! She wasn’t going to let Doon down! “Okay!” With a smile, closed her hands into a fist and stuck out her thumb. Thumbs up. “Leave it to me! I got this!” With that, she jogged her way over to Arden, “I’m going to help Doon find some things, you stay here, hi, it’s so nice to meet you, I’m Sagitta!” She wrapped her arms around Arden, “She’s my sister.” Then she gave Nathan a threatened look.

No one was to hurt her sister.

“Okay, be right back!” With that, she dashed out and went to find this closet that Doon was talking about.

Arden’s weary gaze, cloaked in a half-lidded stare, snapped to attention as her sister’s intrusion shattered the fragile peace that had settled between the pair. A mix of astonishment and resignation swirled within her, mirrored by the subtle raise of her brow. With a muddled blend of disbelief and acquiescence, she nodded in reluctant agreement to Sagitta’s impulsive declaration. “Um… sure,” she murmured, her voice carrying the weight of her weariness, as if reluctantly surrendering to the whims of fate.

As Sagitta scampered away, leaving a trail of exuberance in her wake, Arden turned her attention to Nathan, a flicker of embarrassment tainting her cheeks with a delicate flush of magenta. With a self-conscious chuckle, she leaned closer to him, her voice hushed in a vain attempt to mask her unease. “Remember what I said about reluctant plus ones?” she whispered, her words laced with a subtle amusement that danced upon her lips.

Nathan looked mildly terrified for a few seconds at the threatening look. Words sat on his lips, but he had no where near enough withall to speak, and just waited until the Mirilan had dashed off.

At least he resisted the urge to put his hands up.

At her lean in, he couldn’t help a chuckle, albiet a nervous one.

“I think I get it now. Is.. she always like that?” It felt rude to ask, but the Mirilian had entered the room, ran across to yell about things to Doon, ran over here again, threatened him with a glare and then ran off to find.. ‘some things’. It was a little odd.

An exasperated sigh slipped past Arden’s lips, a subtle echo of the irritation that Nathan had probably sensed simmering beneath the surface. “More often than not… all of them prove to be a bit much at times,” she muttered, her gaze shifting back towards the vibrant gathering. It wasn’t a disdain for her family that tainted her words, but rather a clash of temperaments, a clash between the boisterous closeness they sought and the reserved nature that defined her.

In truth, Arden held a deep affection for her family, bound beyond the indelible ties of blood. Yet, she craved the solace of solitude, the quiet sanctuary that only her introspective mind could provide. In the tumultuous embrace of the familial bond, she found herself a wayward spirit, a lone sentinel amidst a sea of vibrant connections. As her eyes swept back over the ballroom, a blend of weariness and acceptance danced upon her features.

Sagitta sighed as she scratched the back of her head. “This isn’t funny…” She muttered. The Mirialan started off zooming and had to end up walking. Most of the doors were locked. Maybe she should go back to the party and ask Doon for directions.

There was a problem though.

Where was the party?

“Oh that’s wonderful,” she said to no one, “Lost. Maybe my family was right and I should have a GPS on me at all times.” Then she laughed. To herself. “That would end up being too expensive too fast. Technology always dies around me.”

Correction, they always break around her.

<@244242409678962689>

The Mirialan continued to check doors, either undaunted by the challenge or simply trying to find one that would get her back to the party. It was hard to tell. They all started to look the same after a while, and the numbers meant little to the uninitiated newcomer.

So it was with some surprise that she pressed the keypad on a door and it opened!

With a Zeltron standing right in the doorway. Much less expected.

“Uh… hello.”

“Oh! Finally! Okay, this should be the- WWWAAAAHHHHH!!!” Yelped Sagitta very loudly. She jumped back at the same time as she placed a hand over her chest.

“Oh. Frack. Okay. I’m okay. Hi. It’s nice to meet you, I didn’t expect anyone to be standing there.” Then she put up a one moment finger.

The Mirialan turned around and screamed …at the ceiling. With a clear of throat, she smiled and looked back at the Zeltron.

“Hi! Sorry, just needed to get my nerves out!”

Wild, infantile screaming followed from behind the Zeltron, accompanied by screeching giggles and a soothing female voice. The red woman smirked, brow furrowed in a way both curious and concerned.

“The baby agrees.”

“Who the hell was that?”

A pale woman, fit, with long black hair stepped into view, balancing a dark pink baby with inky blue hair growing thick from her scalp. “Oh. Hello.”

“Yeah. Not one of our usual green ones,” she added with a chuckle. “I’m Qyreia. Can I… help you? Are you lost?”

Sagitta immediately felt bad, “Oh my stars, I’m so sorry! If I knew you had a cute little adorable baby I wouldn’t scream like that! Hey there!” She started cooing at the baby but kept her distance, unsure how they would feel about it.

“Who’s a beautiful baby! You areeee! Yes you arrreeeee! You’re soooo prett-” She stopped.

“Yes! Wait. No! No. No. Not lost!”

She feigned a smile and then sighed in defeat.

“Yes. I’m looking for a closet with games. Maybe you can help me point the right direction?

Qyreia looked to her spouse who merely shrugged, giving the baby some leeway to reach out and grasp at the Mirialan, though at least one set of her grabby fingers seemed covered in drool. Qyreia did what she could to intercept that one with a wiggled finger.

“I don’t know about a games closet. You’re in the apartments quarter.” She quirked a brow. “Why are you wandering around looking for games anyway?”

“Well.. I’ll be here for a small while at least. If you want some quieter company. The foods good.”

He raised his sandwich, and tilted his head towards the buffet table. He didn’t really know what to say, but this was something at least.

Such a cute baby! Her attention was taken away for now. “N-no games closet?” She frowned and pouted slightly. Just how far away did she get from? “Apartments quarter!?” She yelped. How many people’s doors had she tried to open!? Now she was rethinking if it was even a good idea to move here. She would get lost. Constantly.

“Oh! There’s a get-together thing going on… um.” She looked around. “Somewhere! I’m sure I can find my way back. I always can!” She gave the Zeltron a smile to reassure them that she got this. “I’m trying to find the games closet because Doon requested me to help liven up the gathering a bit!”

Her smile dropped slightly, but held subtly at a corner of her lips. “Right. He was doing a thing, wasn’t he.”

Keira, her lady, mentally tapped into the Zeltron’s thoughts. The Consul should probably be there, you know.

You coming too?

I’ll get changed first. Just send me the location.

“Well,” Qyreia said with a resigned sigh, “I can at least help you find the party spot if you can describe it a little. Folks around here will go wild anywhere, it seems.”

“Big room huh?” Qyreia mused over that as she stepped out, Keira gently touching her shoulder before the door closed. “I think I know where your party is, at least. This closet is another matter.”

“Yes! It was big! Very nice too. Sort of like a ballroom if I had to guess? I wasn’t really paying attention! What did you say your name was? I’m Sagitta! As for the closet, I think maybe closer to the party we might be able to find it?”

Sagitta tapped a finger on her chin, “This is just like the mystery that Sagitta had to go through. Oh sorry, not me, but the book! Mostly, in the books she goes on adventures but there’s been a few mysteries here and there. Let’s call this ‘The Mystery of the Game Closet!’ Wait. No, that doesn’t sound good. Hmm. ‘The Hidden Closet!’ Nah. Too boring…”

The Zeltron chuckled as she half followed, half led her newfound companion around. She assumed this ballroom was more akin to the open promenade of the Citadel, tucked away from the winds of the sheer cliff, but retaining the space and much of the view.

“So not-you, but… I take it your name is Sagitta?”

With a smile and nod, “Yep! It’s Buir’s favorite book so he named me after Sagitta. She’s really cool in the books. Strong, smart, courageous, and very kind.” Then she frowned, “If you were confused about some closet, I’m guessing you don’t know about this closet with games? Maybe some props? I really don’t know what kind of games we can play anyways, it’s not like you can play tug-o-war inside. Wait! Maybe I can come up with tug-o-war inside!”

I’m not even gonna ask who Buir is. “If someone is keeping a secret stash of party favors, it wouldn’t surprise me. But, not really my focus around here.”

She noted pleasantly how they were getting closer to their presumed destination by the moment. Then maybe someone could explain this exuberant creature to her.

“Tug of war would also not be the weirdest thing to happen at a party here..”

“Really? What’s the weirdest thing that happened? Now I am so curious!” A small frown as she realized something and waved her hand slightly, more so at herself, “Wait, not your focus around here? What is it that you do then? I just arrived here, figured I should use this time to get to know some people!”

The Zeltron attempted to recall some instance, but only one constant came to mind. “Well, these schuttas like to play truth or dare mixed with alcohol. You can imagine how bad that can get.”

The alleged ballroom came into view, and Qyreia was able to make out the decorations of the fete. All things considered, it looked rather nice, and she wondered if she should’ve gotten into something dressier than her standard khaki pants and off-white shirt. She was also curious as to who, other than Doon, had showed thus far.

As Socorra peered into the vast ballroom, memories of the long-gone ice cream social from nearly two years ago flooded her mind as if it had happened yesterday. Emerging from the abyss, the Old Corellian Oblivyn, she had been brought back by a toddler to a shattered reality. The galaxy had carried on as if Socorra had never existed. She had left no mark, no lasting legacy behind and had traversed to this alternate universe or timeline where she was no one but the last of the old guard.

By all nine Hells was that party awkward.

In the memory, a Mirialan came into the room, bellowing at the top of his lungs that he was Ruka, the new Proconsul.

OSIK. Heads were about to fucking roll.

Reacting on pure Shadesworn instinct and vague muscle memory, Socorra had thrown herself to the ground, scrambling to her knees, and prostrating herself before the Shadow Scion, with the magnificent full ballgown draped around her on the dirty floor. Ruka’s green face flushed a deep shade of raspberry red, caught off guard by the hugely unexpected show of respect or submission, and the subsequent collective action of the entire room scratching their heads but also dropping to their knees.

By all the memories she had stolen from Ruka, she knew now it was by far one of the most embarrassing moments of his life.

Other memories of that day flew past. Doctor Avery. She killed herself. They brought her back. Protect us. Jax. Erinos. Zujenia. Spy. Wyndell in ten disguises, part of his charm. And seemingly everywhere she went back then.

“Gweh.”

Pulling back to the present, Socorra’s attention was drawn to Turhaya, the dark-skinned infant nestled inside the repulsor pram beside her. The curious pale marine eyes of the child met Socorra’s single pale blue eye like a glacier meeting the arctic ocean.

Telepathy was like breathing to the mentalist. But she had to be careful, her Bright Star could read it too.

Papa–

I know, little dragon. I know.

She too missed Wyn.

Sturdy boots clacked against the floor as she strode forward (no stilettos this time, Socorra had learned her lesson), her robes billowing behind her. Turi hovered at her side as they entered the bustling ballroom, the woman’s purpose clear: to locate the bar.

Wine was promptly poured in a cup and held carefully between two pale blue hands as Siv sat at the bar. Her skin was crawling again, even though she had hoped she would have gotten over this funk she had been stuck in. She wanted to enjoy this, enjoy life, enjoy things again.

She closed her eyes and tiny brown ones stared back at her.

She couldn’t take a sip of wine fast enough, hoping the movement hid the shaking of her hands holding the glass. A soft blue jaw was set hard as she swallowed, staring at some middle-space above the bar. That is till the sound of her Consul drifted to her ears and her entire body went stiff.

She was very much stuck between wanting to word vomit apologies and karking hiding in till the universe went into heat-death.

Nathan was still wall hugging with Arden. The quiet was comfortable.

Arden’s smile, genuine and untainted by the burdens that weighed upon her, radiated a glimmer of gratitude and acceptance. With a subtle inclination of her head, she embraced the offered respite, her back finding solace against the unyielding wall. “I think I’ll take you up on that offer,” she responded, her voice tinged with a flicker of relief and the tantalizing promise of escape.

Grocery Store Estle City

Wyndell stared down the wall of baby products. His hands hovered over the holsters of his blasters that were not presently present. He narrowed his eyes slowly, imaging a tumbleweed rolling by.

The wall of product did not budge.

“Karking hell, how many different kinds of formula are there? There’s different…flavors? And styles? Which brand is good…or bad. Why is this one blue? ”

It had seemed a simple task to leave and “go get milk”, but he now took the time to attempt to remember which baby formula he was supposed to get.

He could call and ask for help, but that was for quitters. What kind of example would he be setting if he asked for help.

Sagitta tilted her head. “Truth or dare huh? I never played that game! Thank you for giving me ideas… unless you suggest I don’t do that?” Sagitta laughed nervously but she still has confidence. “I’ll figure something out.” All she know of was card and board games that she played with her family. Sometimes they had long trips so it was a way for the girls to kill off boredom.

They made it to the ballroom! A sigh of relief escaped from the Mirialan’s lips. “Thank you! I’ll ask Doon to be more clear about what.. this closet he’s talking about! Really, thank you again, and your kiddo is so cute!”

“No worries. And yes, she is. If this thing lasts long enough, she should be around shortly.”

She waved off the Mirialan amiably enough, wondering how this would work out. Maybe there was a closet somewhere with party favors. Maybe it was just a prank of Doon’s. Maybe I should stay within earshot just in case she tries to just run off again. It seemed a good enough idea.

A small Human burst into the room. She was fully healed again, and mildly late. Again. But Zuza had finally made her way down from home. Which was admittedly only half way across the Citadel. But it was fine.

She glanced around the room, hands in pockets. It was hard to miss Doon’s backend disappearing from the doorway, but seeing her would probably.. be less helpful for him than it was for her. So, Zuza focussed on the Chiss in the room, heading over to Sivall with a smile and waving to Soccora as she passed the Mando momma.

The Mercenary leant against the table and put a steadying hand on her friend’s shoulder with a smile, “Take another sip, and then we can go find where the musics s'pposed to be coming from yeah?”

A tiny squeak escaped the Chiss medic as Zuza touched her shoulder. Sanguine eyes snapped to see who it was, expecting trouble— her whole posture relaxed when she saw Zuza’s familiar face. A friend not a foe. She took a big gulp of her wine and put the glass down.

“Sounds good to me, Zu,” she replied, then smiled, “It’s good to see you here. I wasn’t sure if you were gonna show up.”

Zuza laughed lightly, removing the hand and shrugging with her hands up, “I.. may have broken my shower. A little bit. Anyway! I’m here now. And this place is way too quiet for whats supposed to be a party.”

Siv’s face was full of confusion and shock. Her shower?! Surely she meant like.. the handle for the faucet and not the entire shower. She slid off the bartsool, coming back to a smiliar height as Zuza, and blinked a few times.

“Y-Your… Your shower,” she gawked, “You broke your shower? How?”

Zuza paused, about to dive into the story. And then she remembered the fact that it was rather embarrassing.

“I’ll send you a picture later? On the linkcoms. For now, hijack the speakers.” She smiled, admittedly a smidge of desperate please don’t ask in her eyes as she took a few steps toward where the audio things were set up.

Nathan didn’t notice Mikhail until the Arkanian was almost upon the pair of introverts. The engineer straightened, smiling nervously. He wasn’t blushing yet was he? Was this weird?

“Mikhail. Its good to see you, this is Arden. Shes one of the new recruits I believe.” Nathan looked back to Arden, “This is Mikhail Kadnikov, a.. acquaintance? Of mine.”

Hed almost gone for friend hut that would have been too much.

Probably

<@432543120635461643> <@160141735354171394> Arden’s eyes swept over the new arrival, their perceptive gaze capturing every nuance of his appearance. In the realm of smart casual affairs, where comfort and style coalesced, the man stood at the apex of elegance. His choice of attire transcended the ordinary, elevating him to the upper echelons of sartorial refinement. From the cut of his pants to the meticulous choice of cane, every detail seemed to say “I could do better if I wanted to.”

But it was the crystalline shimmer emanating from his neck that seized Arden’s attention, capturing her curiosity like a moth to a flame. Her gaze lingered momentarily, tracing the delicate play of light and color across the surface of the crystal. It was a mesmerizing sight, hinting at hidden depths and untold stories encapsulated within its radiant embrace.

As Arden’s eyes met those of the man, a flicker of recognition and intrigue danced within her half-lidded stare. Her brows arched with a mix of curiosity and anticipation, signaling her readiness to engage in this new encounter. With a penchant for directness, she wasted no time in revealing her affiliation.

“I’m with Wulfram Armis’ crew,” she declared, her words delivered with a succinct and straightforward cadence that reflected her preference for efficient exchanges. In a world often veiled by clandestine intentions and hidden agendas, Arden found solace in brevity, preferring a direct approach that left little room for misinterpretation.

Arden’s eyes narrowed with a hint of suspicion as the name Kadnikov reached her ears. She was all too familiar with their dubious business dealings and the shadowy reputation that preceded them. Determined not to reveal her inner knowledge, she composed herself, assuming a more relaxed stance by tucking her arms into the pockets of her coat.

“Yeah… pleasure,” Arden replied, her tone guarded. She hoped her subtle shift in demeanor wouldn’t betray her awareness of Kadnikov’s reputation. Her gaze returned to the man’s attire, noting its refined elegance, as she continued with a touch of curiosity.

“So, what brings you to this side of the party? You don’t exactly strike me as the sideline type,” she remarked, her voice laced with a mix of intrigue and skepticism.

Nathan was on odd occasions meeting the glance. While the pair spoke he finished his sandwich and placed the empty plate off to the side on a nearby table, not straying far before returning.

He stayed quiet however, hoping that this conversation didn’t take an unfortunate turn. The name Kadnikov rang bells for the engineer, but they weren’t any that were familiar in a good way. They were familiar from his days on the ships.

Ah well. It was unlikely to be anything really,

He took the moment to actually pay attention to Mikhail’s appearance and then firmly stopped himself because all to quickly he felt weird about it and for doing it.

“Yes. Its.. quiet oddly.” Nathan looked around, avoiding Mikhail’s glance and pushing attention to a suspicious that stating the quiet aloud would summon people. Zuza was already in the room… hmmm.

The pantoran hybrid forced his attention from the inevitable problem, flushing slightly “Usually they’re on the Voidbreaker two. The ship i work on. I guess when you’re spaceborne its easier to get people together like this.”

Hopefully Mikhail wouldn’t question his employment.

Arden subtly adjusted her posture, her eyes briefly darting towards Mikhail before swiftly averting their gaze. Though she attempted to conceal her knowledge, it was apparent to those astute enough, particularly the shrewd Kadnikov, that there was more to her than met the eye. Sensing the weight of his scrutiny, she decided to divert his attention momentarily.

“I’m going to get a drink,” she blurted out abruptly. With a purposeful stride, Arden made her way toward the refreshments, seeking a momentary respite from the unfolding situation. She swiftly procured a drink and took a few minutes to compose herself, allowing the liquid courage to fortify her resolve. Returning to the scene, drink in hand, Arden assumed her position once again, her back pressed firmly against the wall.

Siv through her hands up at Zuza’s pleading look and smiled reassuringly, trying to commute the thought of ‘you don’t have to tell me anything you don’t want to’.

Then a tiny devious smirk as the sky blue woman pulled out her datapad. Whatever little part of her that liked splicing into things she wasn’t supposed to was humming happily in her chest. She followed her Human friend while fingers went to work in her datapad.

“Yeah I’m uh.. trainee medic and head engineer. It’s busy, but I like being busy.” Nathan looked about as awkward as Mikhail felt. Never mind the quiet query of his work, and how he was handling multiple jobs. Still, he’d invited him, why was this weird?

Well. He knew why. He was fairly sure. But Nate still doubted it.

The engineer nodded to Arden as she returned, before shrugging again, “After all, if I’m not busy what I am doing?”

Zuza grinned at the reveal of the data pad. Hell yeah.

The Human led the way, and the pair followed the wires until it came to a main console. It was turned on, but currently inactive.

“You know how to do this yeah? I’ve got a playlist here…” She pulled out her own data pad and held it out to Siv, “Liven this place up a bit.”

Qyreia let Sagitta wander off among her compatriots, noting the others in the fete area; Zuza especially. Her Rollmaster and recently reappointed director of the Dajorra Intelligence Agency seemed to be elbow-deep in work, given that the majority of those present were new faces. And she seemed to be physically alright. Sivall the Zeltron also recognized. Other than Doon, who seemed busied with keeping his mind off of the literal weight on his shoulders, she knew few of the others, though she missed Socorra in her rapid scan of the room.

“Kinda quiet for a party, but okay. Woulda expected more people for this.” She spoke to no one in particular, choosing to keep her commentary to herself as she surveyed things from the fringes of the area.

“Please,” the Chiss chuckled, taking the datapad from Zuza, “Alex stopped changing his locks for a reason.”

A few seconds passed as the Chiss went to work, her lower lip drawn between her teeth as she focused. Then Zuza’s playlist began playing over the speakers and the medic smiled brightly in victory.

Zuza grinned, looking around as the sound began. She turned to Siv after, raising a hand for a high five, “Kriff yeah!”

The return of the high five was automatic, and happiness filled Siv’s chest where dread and exhaustion once were. Zuza’s vibe was always so infectious.

“I’m really glad you’re here, Zu,” she grinned, “I missed you at the last party. You missed a lot of… interesting singing attempts.”

“Yeah I heard, but I was down planetside. Honestly feels like I spend more time down here than I do up there these days.” Zuza sighed dramatically, before hopping up to her feet.

“Maybe we can spark somemore so I can actually see it these time. Zig sent little video.. thingies and I watched them but buh, its not the same!”

“If anyone can get that going it’s you,” Siv followed the rollmaster’s lead and straightened up herself, looking back at her wine glass on the bar, “Drinks would probably help, too.”

Fingers drummed on the back of her own datapad, trying to think of ideas to help. She wasn’t a party person– all the parties she had been to had been very stuffy ones with courtets and dresses the price of ships.

Arden took a sip of her drink, its warmth cascading down her throat as she observed the exchange between Mikhail and Nathan. She allowed the tension in the air to linger, relishing in the discomfort of their awkward interaction. The glass clinked softly against her lips as she nursed her drink, a mask of nonchalance hiding the keen intellect and observant nature that lay beneath.

“It’s.. not.. Well-” He cut off. The last time he’d try to say what he was up to was nothing, Zig had about attacked him to squish his cheeks and inform him otherwise. It made him hesitant, safe to say. “The captain is lenient about how I choose to spend my working hours. So long as things are completed. It’s not as impressive as it sounds.”

Nathan trailed off, shrugging and looking embarrassed. He was just doing things. The only job with a title he applied for was one he wasn’t even going to apply for until encouraged. It still felt decidedly incorrect for anyone to be so formal towards him of all people.

“A few drinks, a few songs. And maybe a few people to warm up the dance floor?”

Zuza grinned to Siv, her intentions the absolute opposite of hidden.

Siv blinked a few times, confused, as if she didn’t get a joke. Then sanguine eyes went wide and blue arms began waving.

“I-I can’t dance! I don’t know if the rhythm part if my brain is broken or what but I can’t dance. It would be terrible. You’d find a video if it on the holonet somewhere if I tried.”

Zuza grasped her hands and started backpedalling towards the open space, “I can’t dance either. I know how to do parkour an kriff, not dancin properly. Cora said he might teach me if we go to Kiast again, but yanno. Anyway! Come oooooon, its all the quiet people anyway, no ones gonna care.”

Nathan blinked, it visibly didn’t quite.. click. So? They were probably busier at home. Or.. something. He didn’t. He had the time to do it. If they did they probably could.

He shrugged, “I’m sure there’s good reason. And anyway, you’re quite busy yourself. Research, medical, never mind a normal role in arcona.”

Arden shook her head, dismissive of the assumption she was with the ship’s crew. “Last I checked, no.”

Arden glanced to the side. “A lot of things. Pilot, scholar… His daughter. But today…” She paused, eyes narrowing as an air of annoyance danced across her face. “Im my sister’s plus one.”

“Looks like someone heard ya, Red,” Diyrian spoke up as she closed the distance from near the door to join the Zeltron. Music had started up right before she was going to comment on something else, namely about a “closet” that girl had mentioned before running off. She shrugged her denim jacket covered shoulders and nodded her head towards the speakers. “Catchy tune.”

Slipping sunvisers up onto green curls, the faux-Zelosian wore a red tank and denim jacket that had a hand painted Krestel-100 light freighter painted on it with roses in the back, a pair of black shorts and matching boots. She offered a small grin to Qyreia.

“Long time haven’t spoke, how’s it been? Other than,” she frowned and looked around briefly, “the most recent fight.”

“Other than that?” the Zeltron returned with a consoling grin of her own. “Not horrible. Baby is doing good. Gettin’ big. Seems like just yesterday I could tuck her away in one arm.” She gave the green-haired woman a perusing glance. “How about you?”

“Oh your sister. Are you.. all joining Arcona then?” Nathan had noticed the sudden surge of new people in the clan. It was hard to not, especially when it meant zuza was on board the Voidbreaker a lot less. It was difficult not to notice the first mate’s girlfriends presence, and thus the lack of it was just as odd.

The pantoran mix jumped slightly in place as the music suddenly blared.

Sagitta thanked Qyreia even though she never got their name. That was okay! She’ll get it some other time! Her eyes looked around for Doon so she could ask for clarification on what he meant by a closet full of games. She couldn’t find him. “Huh. Maybe I shou- WAAA” She almost bumped into someone else. And that someone was a female with an adorable baby. Just like that, her mission was forgotten. For now.

“Awwww!” Sagitta cooed as she smiled, careful not to accidentally scare the baby at all. “Aren’t you soooo cute? How adorable! You’re the second baby I’ve seen today! So- OH IM SORRY!” Sagitta forgot her manners as she smiled at the female. “I"m Sagitta! And who you both be?”

<@141239709291511808>

Socorra turned towards the taller woman, her arctic blue eye scanning her athletic figure. Even before the Mirialan introduced herself, Socorra’s mental databank recognized her as Saggita.

“Socorra Erinos,” the Sith-Mandalorian responded, her tongue expertly rolling the Rs with a slight smile forming on her ruby lips. She gestured towards the child. “This my son Turi, or Turhaya. He like you.”

Indeed, the infant appeared captivated by the lively woman, observing her with brilliant arctic marine eyes and kicking his chubby little legs in excitement from his pram.

“Gweh,” he grinned.

“HI! ITSSONICETOMEETCHA!” She was so excited! Someone was talking to her! And there was a baby! She leaned forward as she gently grasped the toes, “Oh, loooook at you! You are sooo cute! Look at those roooolllllss I could nom them up! Nom nom nom” She gently squishes the rolls and makes the nomming noises.

Then she froze.

“Wa-Wait, Erinos!?” Her smile brimmed. “Do you know L'ara!?” Sagitta laughed softly, “I met her! It’s a loooooong and silly story, yes it is. Yes it isssssss.” Even though she was talking to Socorra about the story, it was as if she was telling Turi the story. “You see, Sagitta was verrrrry silly. She asked for a cover fire from L'ara! And Sagitta did not pay attention and got shot! But she’s okay!”

Her cheeks flushed muddy red as she cleared her throat and stood up. “Um. It’s nice to meet you.” She laughed sheepishly while scratching her cheek.

“Aww, good to hear, means she’s healthy ‘n’ all yeah?” Diy leaned up against the wall, gesturing lightly as she spoke. Kid talk, baby talk, wasn’t something she really cared hearing, but Q kept it short and that’s what she appreciates about her. Hooking her thumbs in her belt, she returned the glance. “Doin’ a'right. Keepin’ Karran company, avoidin’ a giant nexu at my apartment, and last semester of schoolin’.”

“A giant nexu and school. I’m not sure which one I’m more curious about. Never quite took you for a pet owner.”

“I’m so not. I don’t even know how I managed around Horn’s zoo,” Diy groaned lightly. “The nexu’s Luka’s, and it’s determined to wage war on all of my plants.”

I’d suggest a simple house cat, but she might still be traumatized from last time, Qyreia thought with some amusement. “And school? What’s that about?”

“Figured I’d try gettin’ official in the pilotin’ stuff, ya'know? Takin’ astrogation, mechanic courses and the like, ” Diy’s gaze wondered about the party briefly before she shrugged. “Not that we need that to be karkin’ good pilots. Just thought might be useful, prove I could do it, the books stuff. Maybe actually get in with the AEF.”

Qyreia nodded appreciatively. “Well… if you ever want a study buddy, and maybe some pointers, hit me up. Not saying you can fly my ship, but it helps to have the extra experience.”

Saggita’s animated nature was quite endearing, much like Minnow. Socorra clasped her tattooed and burn-scarred hands behind her as she observed the Mirialan with genuine interest, although the telepath’s mind was constantly split between the present conversation and the millions of foreign thoughts around her as far as it could reach.

“L'ara is well-known here. I think she keep me young,” Socorra remarked, acknowledging the carefree spirit of the Twi’lek, which in all likelihood led to Saggita being shot. “Or give gray hair, unsure which more.” She gestured to the plethora of silver-white streaks in her long raven mane, although they had come involuntarily from a much different, much less innocent source.

“You were at Viz resort too, sah? We too toast to remember. But nice to meet.. formally.“

Turi giggled with a healthy contagious laugh and squirmed underneath the tickling. He abruptly stopped when Saggita stopped and just stared at the green lady. She could feel her hand ever so slightly being tugged by an invisible force towards him.

Sagitta laughed weakly. “That makes sense as to why we get along!” She smiled, with a bit of guilt behind it. “I hear that grey-hair comment. A lot. And the young too! Not sure which one I hear more to be honest. I kind of get it. Life sucks. We’re not always going to be in a good situation. But you know, I’m going to make the best of it! Nothing wrong with being fun and adventurous!” The mention of the resort as Sagitta cringed slightly. “Yea, I don’t remember anything about that. I woke up hungover. I am so sorry for whatever I said or did. It’s so nice to meet you too!!”

The Mirialan feels a slight tug as she blinked at the baby. “Whoa.” She hasn’t been around many Force users, especially younger ones. “Awwww. I’m sorrrrry. May I?” She asked Socorra with the gesture of her wanting to pick up Turi.

A loud groan escaped Sulith as he stretched just outside the door, stretching almost uncomfortably at the scarred half of his face. Now that his shift was finally over and his armor had been shrugged off, he could finally see what this noise echoing down the halls was about. A rumble in his stomach begged to ask if there might be food. Oh hey, he didn’t need to duck under this door, either. What a nice place.

Sulith was just lowering his sleeveless arms when he stepped in to look around. His good ear twitched in tune with the beat his bare feet felt through the floor. “…Ah, yeah, this is good music,” he mused aloud as he lumbered in, following his nose toward whatever that edible smell was.

Socorra tensed at the request, suddenly very aware of her surroundings, the exits, and the dozen or so people in the ballroom. Not that Sagitta would do anything to harm Turi, but the potential was there, raising the little hairs on the back of her neck like hackles. She felt very vulnerable.

“One moment.”

She brought her vambrace up and began furiously one-handed typing into the built-in comp, sending a message to Wyndell:

`Requesting live support. Allow Sagitta to hold Turi or risk awkward social encounter? Mando, animated, cute..sy? Turi likes her. Risk moderate. Security minimal.

{File Attachment: Dossier #16854}` <@189568236201705472>

<@160141735354171394> <@432543120635461643> Arden offered a curt nod to Nathan, her gaze steady and determined. “More or less,” she replied, her voice carrying a hint of wry amusement. “If one joins, the rest of us do as well. Reluctantly or otherwise.” The bonds between them ran deeper than mere companionship; they were intertwined by a web of fate, each thread influencing the others in unpredictable ways.

Turning her attention to Mikhail, Arden’s voice rose to match the pulsating rhythm of the music that permeated the air. “That actually sounds great” she confessed, a flicker of mischief in her eyes.

“Well.. I hope you find a good place here. I didn’t expect to but.. It’s worked out.” Nathan smiled gently. He still doubted that place for himself sometimes, but it was there.

The engineer nodded to the notion of sitting down, following the other two towards the table and settling into one of the seats.

Not a moment after Nathan sat, Sully made his way over through the crowd with a sandwich clutched in his teeth and a plate of snacks in each hand. One large, bare, furred foot scooted the next chair back with a creak on the ground, and Sully plopped down, crowding the space and the table between his own mass and his plates.

“Heh wh'ff'uf?” he said with a cheery glance toward the blue man before pulling the sandwich out of his mouth.

“Oh-” Nathan was amazed by the fact he hadn’t noticed Sully enter the room. Still, it was a pleasant surprise. He shuffled his chair along a little make the space a bit more comfortable before speaking properly, albeit sheepishly.

“Hi. Uhm.. What was that?”

Sully blinked. “What was what? Oh! I said, hey, what’s up?‘” He smiled again, not bothering to brush the hair out of his face, then turned to the other folks present. “Hi… Wow. Everyone’s dressed so nice, today. I didn’t even know there was a thing happening.”

Without really thinking about it, Sully’s scarred jaw stretched open to pick a stray bit of meat out of his teeth with one of his mechanical fingers. “So, what’s the thing about?”

“Nothing.. in paritcular. Just one of the Voidbreaker’s usual parties, just, hosted here rather than on board. It’s the.. 68th.. one?” Nathan paused, thinking for a moment. “Wait no.. there was one last week. Or.. No that was the 68th. Zig was making.. jokes. So this one is the 69th-”

It was at that moment, his cheeks turned a shade of purple and Nathan sank down slightly into his seat, “Party. They uh- We. Lottof parties.”

He picked up a tea cup and made a point of making himself a cup.

It hadn’t clicked until he said 69 that it was that number. No wonder Zig had been so excited last week. Darn it.

As the mom waited she turned back to Sagitta. “Have you held baby before? Ever babysat?” <@216702440140046336> <@189568236201705472>

Siv let Zuza drag her to the dance floor, eyes still very wide. Skin prickled under her sweaterdress. Eyes. Stares. But maybe…

“I-I’ll dance if you do, Zu…”

“Yeah? Well, I wouldn’t say no to that. Sometime then,” Diyrian smiled in thanks. The smile shifted to a playful grin. “Which ship’s that? The Katurna or one of the bigguns?”

Completely oblivious to the number subject, Sully juat said, “Good! It’s nice to have a good time.” No longer able to hold off on food, he took an enormous bite out of the sandwich in hand.

Mid-chewing, he pointed to Nathan’s tea. “Ca’ I geh’ suwwa thah?”

“Katurn*o*,” Qyreia corrected. “That’s my freighter, but I also have an X-Wing that I play around in when I can sneak by Ruka during operations.” She leaned in close to whisper, “He doesn’t like it when I get into danger.”

“Ru-boi? A buzz kill?” Diy feigned being shocked, lowering her voice in kind. She grinned and shook her head with a laugh, returning to normal volume. “Didn’t know ya had the X-Wing, neat. I got a Kestrel Light at the docks. She’d been a doll to fly…when I can get L4-C1A to cooperate, the droid brain.”

Sagitta frowned as she started typing away when she asked if she could hold the baby. “Um.” Her brows furrowed in confusion. Did she get a message or…? But then Socorra’s head turned back towards Sagitta and asked her questions that only a concerned and nervous mother would. Her face went from confusion to softened the muscles.

“Oh! Oh. Wait, it’s okay! If you don’t want me to hold this little adorable man, I won’t! It’s just-” She stopped and frowned, trying to think of what occurred, “Well, I felt a tug from the Force from him, that’s all!”

“Well, good job that that was the plan then.” Zuza smiled, confident and unbotered by being the first one out there. It was her music anyway, it was fast. An oldie but a good one.

A broad grin crossed her face as she pulled Siv into the dance. It was quick movements, but Zuza still did her best to lead even though she was far.. from a taught dancer. She knew how but it was far from anything formal.

“Yeah.” Nathan nodded, glad that Sully was never one to pick up on things like that. It made it easier to move past it.

He shifted forwards, pulling the canter full of tea from the centre of the table towards Sully, “There you go.”

“Oh boy. What’s the droid’s issue? Not enough voltage in the right places?”

“` If not friend, why friend shaped? Unless you think that this…"Sagitta” is going to eat Turi, I think he’ll be okay. She looks harmless, and then there’s a bunch of data here that I didn’t read, but I assume you did. You know how much I hate reading.

Also, what was I supposed to pick up at the store. I think I’m in the wrong isle. Why are there so many differnt brands of baby stuff? “`

Socorra blinked once and remained unchanged otherwise. “Have you held baby before–” she began repeating and paused at the text chime, her eye darting back to the vambrace to reply.

“` She is Mirialan, eating babies is not a typical trait. But most of that data comes from Ruka observation so it may be biased. She said Turi is tugging her to him via Force. I might waive the contract.

I was hoping they have PediaLytespeed- “what babies crave.” It’s got electrolytes. Maybe it is in groceries? Or pharmacy…

Baby stuff has so many brands just like prophylactics because there are two basic states for Humans: procreating and not procreating. I own galactic stock in both.

I forgot the diaper bag. F ”`

“` Ruka thinks that the rocks on Port Ol'val are suspicious.

And if course Turi is! He a natural chick magnet. They grow up so fast.

Ok, diaper bag, Pedialight..speed sure it’s here somewhere. ”`

“` The rocks must not be fren shaped.

If Turi is already that much of a chick magnet, we are putting him in a holoreality show.

I mean I left the diaper bag on the shuttle. He is going to sploot any minute. :neon_oof:

Good luck. Beware the unsettled ghosts of those brave parents that perished in the wrong baby aisles. ”`

Outstretching tattooed and burn-scarred hands, Socorra began lifting Turhaya from his carrier.

“Up and out, there we go,” she said softly and nuzzling his nose with hers, eliciting a giggle. She turned him around to face Sagitta and slightly danced the baby midair as she offered him.

“You may,” she nodded.

Sagitta nodded. “I did baby sit! I have sisters! Though, we all weren’t exactly babies when Buir saved us -” She stopped talking as the woman had turned her attention to the comm.

Felt a bit awkward, she glanced around and sees her sister sitting with few others. A soft smile formed on her face. How exciting! Her sister had her nose out of her books and was actually socializing! “HEY. ARDEN. IM GLAD YOU ARE MAKING FRIENDS!” She waved at her from afar.

Socorra turned her attention to Turi and figured that she should maybe leave the baby alone? Her eyes widen as she quickly grabbed a chair and scooted close. She wanted Socorra to be comfortable with Sagitta. Taking the adorable baby in her arms, she started cooing and talking softly to the baby. She’s aware that they could be overwhelmed.

“Oh, look at those rollllls you are soooo healthy! Yes you arrreee” She held the baby properly while her other hand gently squeezed Turi’s thighs.

<@345646933668528129> #sorrynotsorry

Nathan was surprised by the offer, but smiled appreciatively as the cup was returning to him. He picked it up, holding it briefly in both hands.

He was about to sip, when Sagitta yelled across the room. The Pantoran looked somewhat akin to a deer in the headlights for a moment, before taking the moment to just drink and avoid needing to speak again for a few moments.

The tea.. was. Weird. He gulped half the cup down in one go and it burned. Nathan grimaced, but managed to not make a sound or any notably adverse reaction. It didn’t feel hot. It.. tasted alcoholic. Was there alcohol in a kettle? Who puts alcohol in a kettle.

Nathan didn’t want to just grab it and check, that would be rude. Heck.

“Voltage, wires in a bunch, etc. Pretty high opinions on how the ship should be flown, believes she’s knows best ‘n’ such.” Diyrian shrugged, flashing a grin. “But a lil’ sweet talkin’ ‘n’ she’ll forgive trading hands. Not that the autopiloting ain’t nice sometimes.”

Qyreia internally screeched at the idea of her droid getting uppitty over her piloting. She couldn’t imagine having one inside the workings of her ship. For the sake of propriety, she nodded along and put aside her own hang ups on the matter. “Yeah, that probably comes in handy from time to time.”

Diy nodded. A pregnant pause hung after that and she found herself slowly glancing around the room once more, hovering a bit on each group, new and old faces. What to talk about? More on spaceships and droids seemed like running a bantha aground, and the Zeltron was probably sick and tired of talking about clan things. Not to mention the recent events. The faux-Zelosian’s gaze fell on Turi in some Mirialan’s arms, spirits, moms just be making anyone hold their spawn. Babies. It was a subject she could chat to Qyreia about but honestly she’d rather just, no –not she hated the lil tykes, more the insane spell people went under when around or expecting them. Gave her the willies.

“Well, I don’t wanna keep ya all night. Gonna go mingle, but if Keira pops down, I’ll come back to say hello,” Diyrian winked as she pushed off the wall and started walking backwards a couple steps, thumb jutted over her shoulder. “Nice chattin’, talk to ya later sometime, about that offer maybe?”

“Oh, yeah, sure thing.”

Qyreia waved her off, watching Diy swiftly saunter off toward the more lively people present for the party. So many of them were still in the STC, and the rest seemed to be Qel-Dromans and and Voidbreakers. Not a Galerian in sight save for the green-haired human, as far as she could tell; not that those in the militant House were incumbents from her time there.

Just an awkward Consul moment. Don’t let it get to you, Q ol’ girl. Keira will be here soon and then you can at least spend time with her.

Arden cradled the cup in her hands, its delicate warmth seeping through her fingers. Her brow furrowed in concentration as the cacophony of her sister’s voice pierced through the air, a relentless assault on her senses. Annoyance etched itself upon her face, threatening to shatter the calm facade she desperately clung to.

Ignoring the chaos around her, Arden took a slow, deliberate sip of her tea, the fragrant steam rising in wisps that curled around her face. The taste danced upon her tongue, a rare indulgence in the midst of her nomadic existence. She relished each sip, savoring the flavors that had become foreign to her palate.

With a faint smile playing at the corners of her lips, Arden tilted her head slightly, casting a sidelong glance at her sister, Sagitta, who seemed to thrive on chaos and disorder. It was a stark contrast to her own measured composure, a testament to the differences that had always set them apart.

“I don’t have tea very often,” she remarked, her voice calm and measured, even as her annoyance simmered beneath the surface. “No room for unnecessary supplies when I travel.” Her words held a hint of resignation, a recognition of the sacrifices she had made in pursuit of her lifestyle.

Arden’s gaze shifted back to the teacup cradled in her hands, the gentle steam now dissipating into the air. Memories of distant days flickered in her mind, the taste of fresh food and the comfort of a stable home fading like whispers on the wind. The nomadic life had become her norm, her existence reduced to freeze-dried sustenance and the relentless pursuit of knowledge.

“Come to think of it,” she mused, a hint of nostalgia tingeing her voice, “I don’t think I’ve had anything that isn’t canned in months.” Her words carried a bittersweet realization, a reminder of the sacrifices she had willingly embraced in her quest for understanding. The taste of real food, the simple pleasures of a home-cooked meal, had become distant memories, replaced by the sterile efficiency of processed sustenance.

The sky-blue chiss did her best to follow the Human’s lead, her facial expression showing just how much she was overthinking every step she took.

Despite all that, she wasn’t terrible and didn’t cause Zuza any sort of bodily harm. She even cracked a tiny smile at a point where the overthinking ebbed.

Socorra mentally bit her lip but outwardly smiled a little, watching Turi enjoy the attention. I have sisters! was evident in Sagitta’s mannerisms. She grabbed a chair and took a seat as well, content to watch for a moment before speaking, her posture slightly relaxing although her mind was as sharp as an assassin’s knife.

“Do you have lot of sibling?”

Sagitta smiled as she started to rock Turi gently. “Not a lot! Three sisters. I’m the second daughter!” She smiled softly. “Asani is the oldest, she’s a kushiban! Really good at sneaking! Then I have Arden,” She nodded her head toward where Arden was sitting down. “Who, honestly, might be the smartest out of all of us. She does so great in her studies and constantly absorbing information. And one heck of a pilot too! Then there’s my baby sister, she likes fixing things up and keeping things clean. Asani and Erin get into a lot of arguments about cleanliness. Asani likes to be a bit mischievous,” chuckled Sagitta. “She’s banned from my room. Along with Erin.” She laughed softly. “I’m proud of all of them!”

Then she gently blew raspberries onto Turi’s belly. She looked up at Socorra, “What about you? Any siblings? Or more kids?”

Zuza was far from perfect herself. While the Human had grace, from learning various forms of fighting with blades and sabers, she had clearly never been taught to dance. Her movements were all rather random and unled, but they were to the beat and for Zuza that was the important part of one’s ability to dance.

Seeing Sivall smile as the Chiss finally relaxed bore the important part of dancing.

She grinned, not pausing and doing her bet to guide Siv through her own hesistations.

“Well.. this is probably quite nice then. I’ve had similar experiences, after a while everyhting loses definition.” Nathan had mused, faimiar with the bland sameness of those forms of food.

The Pantoran mix had been grasping onto the cup, unsure what to do with it and once Mikhail stopped swearing, during which he had frozen in spot, Nate gladly placed the cup down.

He hesitated, a touch embarrased, cheeks purpling, “I.. did wonder why they would do that. Uhm. Put tea in a- alcohol in a uhm-” He pressed his hand to his forehead, wishing that he had the Force simply to be able to disappear right now.

Nathan handed the cup to Sully without hesitation.

The togorian’s hefty hand plucked it up and threw the drink back in one motion. Sully licked his lips after gulping it down. “Hey, that’s pretty good. Is there more?”

“Mhm.” Nathan responded, clearing his throat after to respond properly. “Yes. Just. Caught off guard. It’s ok.”

Sagitta really liked to talk. That was probably for the best, as Socorra mostly kept her life to herself which made for dull conversation. And they weren’t stuck in a lift, she could bail anytime.

“Most or all sisters are adopted, sah? Are you all Mando?”

She thought about the question for a moment, deciding the information regarding the familial was not likely harmful and could be denied later.

“I have dozens of blood sibling, none that I know though. As for adopted.. my Erinos brothers were killed by one of our own, while I was brain dead. Most of clan was killed as well. I am Alor now.”

The woman didn’t speak it aloud, it needn’t be. Alor, only because I am the last.

Survivor’s guilt.

Sagitta beamed as she nodded. “Yes! Wulfram adopted us all. And no. Asani and I are planning to take the Creed. Arden, she just entered the STC. I’m unsure of her path but I feel like being a Mandalorian doesn’t fit her. And Erin is still underage and finding her footing around her freedom. She was dealt a bad hand. Buir never pushed us to learn how to fight till we became old enough.” Then she grimaced. “Well, Asani and I were younger, we got attacked and we used that to make Buir teach us something so we can take care of ourselves.” Then a smile, “And now, here we are!”

Her head lowered as she gently blew raspberries in Turi’s belly again, laughing while he squealed at her. Then she noticed the change of topic. She becomes quiet. Sagitta held Turi close to her torso as she scooted her chair closer to Socorra. Her hand gently touched her arm. Her other arm held Turi up against her rather protectively. “I’m sorry you think that you are alone. I don’t! You’re my sister already.” She grinned from ear to ear. Then a sniff.

“OH MAN!” Sagitta yelped, “WHEW! That’s a BOMB right there mister!” She laughed as she gently stood up and gently placed him on the table. Her hands were at his sides to make sure he doesn’t try to roll over. Her hues glanced at Socorra, “I can change him?” Then she looks around for the diaper bag.

She stiffened slightly at the touch. Not a recoil, not Terror to the Mirialan’s face - as the woman was known to do - but a slight stiffening. Even with a partner and a child, physical affection especially in public was still difficult to accept.

“Wulfram done well then,” she said. “Mando phrase I once heard was Ke barjurir gar'ade, jagyc'ade kot'la a dalyc'ade kotla'shya. - Train son to be strong but daughter to be stronger.”

You’re my sister already. She suddenly felt adopted and it was…strange. Is that not my job now, to adopt Mandos?

Socorra too wrinkled her nose as the full diaper stench wafted over to her side. “Oh no.” She bit her ruby lip and looked around. “I left bag on shuttle.”

Sagitta beamed, “Yes. Another phrase Buir taught us was Aliit ori'shya tal'din.” She smiled.

A frown. Hmmm. So no diaper bag? “Okay! I got this, here!” She gently handed Turi to Socorra as she ran to the buffet table. She grabbed several water pictures and an empty bowl. Back to the table, she went to an empty table and pulled out the tablecloth. She started to attempt to tear the table cloth but it was a struggle. Eventually, she got it.

She dipped the pieces of the tablecloth into the water and then shoved them underneath her chest and grimaced. “WHEW THATS COLD” Then she laughed, gently squishing Tuir’s feet. “But rather me than you, huh?” While waiting, she prepared one of the bigger table cloth by tying up and having two leg holes ready for young Tuir.

“Okay!” She gently grabbed Turi back and got out the now warm damp clothes from underneath her chest and got him cleaned up. She placed the dirty rags into the bowl. Then she put on the makeshift tablecloth diaper she made and made sure it was nice and snug. “Theeerrree we go! Prob won’t hold much but it’s better than nothing!” She laughed as she picked up Turi and made nomming noises on his belly.

Socorra smiled at the innovation, a genuine smile. The sacrifice of warmth (and dryness) for her little dragon made it all the more memorable and endearing. She pulled over a nearby tablecloth as well, and offered it to Sagitta for herself.

“Thank you,” she said, and attempted to joke a little. “Do you babysit weekend?”

Sagitta blinked in confusion at the tablecloth for a moment. She checked Turi’s diaper. Did she miss anything? Confused, she smiled and shook her head, “Being a mom is hard. I can’t even imagine it. Hopefully, one day I’ll be one! But not anytime soon, heh…” She muttered. Right now, she liked her freedom and exploring.

Sagitta laughed as she nodded, “If I don’t have any jobs or missions or- ah you know. If I’m not busy, I would love to watch Little Turi! Maybe give you and your partner some date night? Or just a nice quiet soak in the tub? Moms need days off too when they can!”

Her Buri never really had a day off especially with the chaos that is of Asani and Sagitta.

Socorra tossed the cloth. Saggita apparently did not mind being cold and wet? Strange, that did not seem to be a Mirialan trait.

She tickled the baby’s toes lightly, enjoying his enjoyment.

“It is much harder than I thought. Much.”

She pondered for a moment. “I would like that.”

There would need to be a thorough background check of course, and Sagitta had left plenty of DNA at the table.

“We meet up again, sah? I should meet Wolfram as well. Turi need more Mando enviro than I able to give- I feel I failing there.”

“Yes! I would love that. I think Buir would love to meet you too.” And if Wulfram actually didn’t want to, he can just yell at her later. She doesn’t care. She frowned softly as she shook her head, “You’re not failing. It’s hard. Yes, I think you should meet Buir after all. Especially since two of my sisters aren’t taking up the Creed I believe. I can try to plan something out!”