Fort Malgrim Elysia 40 ABY
Snow is falling, all around them. The Elysia weather unforgiving in the city as the yearly snowstorms begin blasting through. Not that you would know if you were inside Fort Malgrim.
The Supreme Chancellor of the Taldryan Republic in co-ordination with the Elysia Governor, Koda Kendis, have organised a goodwill get together to see in 41ABY in style! With food, drink, and diplomatic relations across the Brotherhood that can only mean good things, right?
Guests enter through the Entrance Hall, where they are greeted by ED-55, a butler droud with a peculiar mustache who seems somber and tired, complaining that the Governor only let’s it complete its second function.
Adjacent to the Entrance Hall is the smoke room, where smokers can indulge in their habit, whereas the Billiards Room has been converted into a gambling deck. Whether your game is sabacc or dejarik, you’ll find what you want there.
The Inner Hall serves as the main social hub of tbe party. Bars have been set up to accommodate for drinks, which waiters pass around like hot potato’s. The Library is perhaps the quietest part of the Fort, letting those who need it a reprive from the hustle and bustle.
The Drawing Room hosts an art exhibit, the main feature of which is a piece using an abhorrent amount if glitter…
The Music Room is the main dance hall, with various bands making appearances to play their songs throughout the night.
The Dining Hall is left pristine as cooks in the Kitchen Court prepare food for the banquet.
Upstairs is a Throne Room, completely off limits to tbe public, as well as an assortment of bedrooms for guests staying the night. Downstairs is host to an in-built Fighting Arena. What happens in Fort Malgrim stays in Fort Malgrim.
Guards patrol the area, led by Graham, a Miraluka along with several others including… is that an Ewok on a Wookie’s shoulders?
One things for certain, for better or worse, this will be a night to remember.
Sykes straightened the cuffs to his new formal jacket and rolled his shoulders to ease some tension. It’s not often I get receive invitations to other Clan’s parties. We may need to collaborate with others. he thought to himself as he made his way to the door.
The large wooden door creaked open as he approached. Sykes had to blink a few times to adjust his vision to the bright lights that shown through the entrance. Stepping past the threshold he took in the sights of the magnificent hall and nodded to the butler droid. “Greetings. Welcome to Fort Malgrim, Sir. May I take your cloak?” It asked helpfully.
The Anzat shrugged and handed over his cloak to the droid and made his way to the right. He could smell the stench of tobac and his cravings immediately took over. He pulled his cigarette case from his jacket pocket and lit one as he approached another serving droid. “Whyrens Reserve” he said curtly to the droid and began to take in the various paintings and statues in the room.
ED-55 sighed heavily. “Unfortunately, Governor Kendis does not allow me to fulfill my primary objective. It is such a shame.”
The droid staggered away, leaving Sykes to contemplate what the droid meant.
Sykes became aware of the pair of guards watching him, namely, the Miralian, who gave him a small smile.
Winch didn’t like this. Not one bit. He stood around the Inner Hall like a lost little lamb awaiting the perverbial wolf.
He’d received his invitation, of course he had, much like everyone else here, but it was the question as to why him that bothered him most? Was it because of ‘A’ and Port Kasiya? He should have known engaging with Taldryan in their home turf was a terrible idea.
He flat out refused the invitation once he got it, and was more than happy to let it simmer and burn in a nearby fire. The more he exposed himself, the more any of them exposed himself, the more they were at risk. Winch hated incalculable, unpredictable risk.
Koda had pretty much begged him to come, and so he did. Branded a traitor or nor, Winch had a soft spot for Koda, much like he did for Ellisyn, and Valkyrie.
At least Aylin and Dasha had an art piece up for auction later in the evening. He could support his friends at the very least.
Speaking of which, were any of them even here yet?
Sykes smirked slightly and taking a drag from his smoke as the droid walked away. “Wouldn’t surprise me in the least.” He murmured contemplating on the droid. He knew danger lurked all around and wouldn’t be surprised if the droids all had combat protocols in place.
He turned and noticed a few guards watching him. He gave the Miralian a slight nod and moved around to room taking in everything around him. He could feel more beings arriving and was doing his best to mark every being near him. “This is already feeling like a bad idea”
A blast of icy wind filled the entrance hall as a large Togorian came through the doors, cloak billowing behind him.
“REFRESHING,” the newcomer bellowed as ED-55 scrambled to try to take his cloak. “Nothing like winter’s bite to make one feel alive.”
The mustached droid’s photoreceptors whirred into focus as it ran the Togorian’s image against the clan database. “Welcome to Fort Malgrim my lord Fist, shall I announce your arrival?”
Rajhin handed over his cloak then patted the droid on the shoulder, “that will not be necessary friend.” His amber eyes darted around the room for a moment, pausing momentarily to lock eyes with one of the guards who was staring at him. Returning his gaze to ED-55, the Togorian leaned in, “is it true this Fort has a fighting arena?”
“Yes my lord, it is downstairs. You’ll find it equipped with the latest–”
“–SPLENDID” Rajhin interrupted. “Nothing builds bonds between warriors like a spirited bout.”
And with that the Fist set off to find the stairs and hopefully a potential opponent.
Yet, as Rajhin turned the corner, he bumped into a man wearing navy-blue Mandalorian armor. Rajhin was such a freaking specimen of might and physical ability that Darrio was staggered back from the impact, nearly falling down the stairs he had just risen from.
“Hey!” He said. “Watch where you’re going, you giant overgrown furball!”
“DARRIO!”
The voice came from the top of the staircase as Appius Taldrya Wight, the Taldryan Supreme Chancellor, descended towards them.
“How did i know you’d be causing trouble, again? That is the Fist of the Brotherhood you are talking to. Apologise. Now.”
Darrio looked Rajhin up and down, and instead of saying sorry, extended his middle finger towards him.
Dasha sighed as she got the cue. The Sephi put down the mug of her warm drink to the side just so she can use her datapad. This set off a round of hidden glitterbombs on and near Dario.
ED-55 sighed loud enough for everyone nearby to hear. “Please refrain from making a mess of the place. Glitter takes ages to get out.” <@77213354619318272>
Koda Kendis was waiting for more people to arrive before he made his presence known. For now he was making sure his security systems weren’t being tampered with.
Rajhin took advantage of the glitter chaos to dash forward, closing the distance between himself and Darrio to make a grab for the Mandalorian’s wrist hoping to turn the obscene gesture into a impromptu lesson in respect. Reacting with finely honed reflexes, Darrio parried Rajhin’s hand away and instinctually shifted into a Mandalorian Core ready stance. The two warriors stared each other down for a tense moment.
The Fist flashed his fangs in a toothy grin, “I see you have some skill to back up your disrespect. Perhaps you would care to join me in the fighting pit.”
Sykes lifted his head and turned quickly at the sounds of popping, his hand moving down to the dagger on his belt. “What in all hell is going on already?”
He sniffed out his smoke and made his way out into the hallway to see the Fist and someone wearing Mandalorian armor setting themselves up for a fight. He smiled and leaned against the wall taking a sip from his whiskey. “Seems the party is already starting.”
From the stairs Appius had appeared from came Ellisyn, dressed in her usual black and red armor. Upon catching sight of Darrio in the mess of glitter, she quickly made her way over. Through the glitter, she noticed a hulking mass of a Togorian, and seeing Darrio stanced up in front of her told her all she needed to know. Ellisyn swooped in and pulled one of Darrio’s arms into her own. “Now now, little Tooka, let’s not start fights we can’t finish.” She admonished Darrio before looking up at the bigger guy. “Sorry about him. He’s still learning his manners.” Though her tone was soft and diplomatic, her eyes offered a warning to Rajhin <@837236610684813342>
The sights, sounds, and smells of the kitchen were an assault on one’s senses. The noise was chaotic and loud with chefs yelling obscenities at each other. The dishes being prepared looked like works of art and smelled even better. Race focused on his task at hand forcing himself not to be distracted. While most places this size used droids for service, Taldryan was not most places. They fashioned themselves as a Republic and tried to mimic the grand opulence of a wealthy system. Grabbing his tray of drinks Race deftly left the kitchen through the service doors. And began making his rounds.
With Darrio escaping with Ellisyn, Appius decided to play the key diplomat in the situation.
“I do apologise about him. He’s… had a rough couple of weeks, but its good to see you again, Rajhin! And… you?”
Appius looked to Sykes, unfamiliar with who he was. Perhaps an introduction was in order?
<@800517155389046794> <@185939710005215232>
Race passed by Winch, who stood to attention, inspecting the alcohol on the tray.
“May I inquire as to the specific blends?” Winch asked. Perhaps something on the tray would help settle his nerves.
Raist casually walked in through the Entrance Hall of Fort Malgrim by himself, which was rare. Though his invite called for a plus one, he wanted to attend without worrying about Dara or anything that could be perceived as threatening. To that end, he wore simply his vambraces and his lightsaber. He hoped to avoid violence. Whether that was possible or not would be something entirely else…
“Welcome Good Sir To Fort Malgrim” came an overly enthusiastic butler droid. Raist waved it away and he could almost sense the disappointment in it, though that would be impossible, even for a trained Force User.
A drink and a smoke would be a good place to start, and see what events were unfolding here. End of Year Celebrations almost always devolved into debauchery at their end, Raist wanted to be out of there long before that took place
Sykes stood up straight and nodded to the Mandalorian in front of him. “Su cuy'gar, Chancellor. Sykes Jade.” He said with a slight smirk. He had heard about Taldrya being full of Mandalorian’s and had brushed up on his Mando’a before arriving. If only they knew how many of their kind I’ve brought down over the years.
“Only the finest blends, Corellian Whiskey, Sparkling Wine from Coruscant, and Spicebrew from Lothal.” Race replied while carefully pointing out each choice on the serving tray. “I hear the Spicebrew is the Supreme Chancellor’s favorite.”
“NO APOLLOGIES NEEDED YOUNG WARRIOR” Rajhin boomed in reply to the consul, “NOTHING A SPIRITED BOUT IN THE ARENA WOULDN’T CURE.” He turned to the newcomer with a slight bow, “Greetings Sykes Jade”
Apparently, you could learn a lot about a man from what he drank, so Winch graciously accepted the drink. He then heard the unmistakable sound of a glitter bomb from an adjacent hallway.
“I don’t suppose you’ve seen a Sephi woman around, have you?” Winch asked. “She’s probably got her eyes staring into a datapad like it holds the answer to all of life’s mysteries.”
Jade.
Why did that name sound so eerily familiar to Appius? Then it hit him, the information gathered from the OSI. The Jade’s were associated with Clan Scholae Palatinae. Oh, he could have some fun with this.
“If you are looking for a worthy challenger, perhaps Mr Jade here would be up for a sparring session?” Appius asked.
<@800517155389046794>
Darrio followed Ellisyn into the Entrance Hall. “You look beautiful tonight.”
Then he stopped.
“Wait, Lil Tooka? What the hell?” he asked. It was then he realised that they were not alone. <@199627838368907264> was there, out of the corner of his eye.
<@301514304845381632>
Sykes chuckled lightly and held his arms out. “I am one for a fight most evenings, but I was under the impression this was a night for drinks and dancing. Had I known otherwise I wouldn’t have bothered with this new suit!” He lowered his arms, took another sip of his whiskey and looked between the Taldryan and the FIST. His tone deepened slightly and his eyes harden. “But if a fight is what people wish, I’m always willing.” His hand drifted closer to the lightsaber on his belt and his senses spread out wary of the danger he knew was all around.
<@837236610684813342>
“I have not noticed anyone fitting that description yet.” Race responded while handing the Taldryan his drink.
Race paid no mind to the commotion in the entry way. Servers jobs were to bring out food and drinks not interfere in the guests revelries. He continued his round methodically. He tried to take in what guests preferred what drinks as his tray emptied. A few guests left credits for him on the tray and he scooped them into his pocket as he returned to the kitchen for another serving tray.
If Ellisyn noticed <@199627838368907264> , she didn’t make it known. Instead, she just stopped with Darrio and looked him dead in the eye. “You’re not getting out of this with compliments. We’re not even an hour into this, and you’re already about to fight someone.”
Darrio quickly went into damage control mode and grabbed Elly’s hand. “Well, now that you’re here, I’ll be too busy looking at you to get into trouble.” This earned a glare from Ellisyn before she sighed in resignation
“I can’t believe you sometimes” A soft smile crept upon her lips, “And I hate that that worked.” She sighed and leaned into his arm, using it as an excuse to talk all hush hush like “We’ve an audience.” She whispered <@837236610684813342>
“Now, now, gentleman!” Appius stepped in between the two men. “The night is young, and most haven’t had their first drinks yet, but if you two are eager… take it downstairs.”
<@185939710005215232> <@800517155389046794>
Governor Koda Kendis finally made his presence known to the party. He was dressed in his armor, with recently cleaned fur around his neck, along with a freshly trimmed beard and combed hair. He looked around and was very surprised at how many people decided to show up to the party, Koda lifted up his arms and addressed the hall “Ladies, gentlemen, and other guests who have joined us tonight, welcome to Fort Malgrim! Please enjoy in whatever festivities we have available. Food, drink, music, dancing, friendly sparring, and everything else that Life Day brings. Enjoy the company, and don’t worry too much if you spill something. However! Myself and my guards will not tolerate the intentional destruction of anything. So keep the roughhousing down in the fighting ring, overseen by Gaaarl and Beele. Thank you, and once again, enjoy the festivities!”
Raistlin noted the awkward glances of the two individuals who had ducked back into the Entrance Hall as he arrived. He nodded politely at them, casually walking past and giving them privacy, or as much as could be expected. Before he went into the smoking room, he saw Governor Koda addressing the assemblage, and made a mental note to engage with him later in the evening, if for nothing else then to thank him for the invite.
Raist entered the smoking room and sat on a lounge chair more or less off to the side of the room, whereupon one wouldn’t see him unless they actually entered. He withdrew a small tin with some pre rolled cigarras and lit one up, taking a longggg drag before exhaling, feeling as if the weight of the galaxy went with him on the exhale.
He called for a server droid to bring him a snifter or Corellian Brandy, and the vintage would determine not only his mood for the evening, but also the capacities of his hosts. Taldryan had never been known for being cheap, and despite reconstituting into a republic, he still expected top shelf quality.
Sykes started to make a reply but turned his head as yet another armored being stepped out and greeted the guests. He smiled and bowed slightly to the two men in front of him. “Indeed. Why not another drink gentlemen? I’m very interested in the art and opulence of this beautiful outpost. It’s not often we Imperials are invited to your Republic areas.”
“Another time perhaps,” Rajhin bowed as Skyes excused himself. The Togorian made his way out of the entrance hall and toward the Dining Hall. Rajhin had learned long ago that drinking at a supposedly diplomatic function was, for him, a recipe for disaster.
“What can I get for you,” a serving droid inquired.
“Green tea, piping hot,” the Fist replied.
After a few moments Rajhin secured his beverage and made a quick scan of the hallway to look for any familiar faces or any newcomers who looked up for a friendly contest of strength. Seeing no one that immediately popped out to him, the Fist retired to the library to peruse the collection.
Meanwhile, Dasha was holding a platter of bacon strips in one hand and a large glass of her non-alcoholic beverage in another as she dodged the crowds to get to a quieter spot she had recently found in the corner of the Billards room where she can watch the games while browsing the net.
The desert woman was not pleased.
Snow gleamed in her long silver-white and raven tresses and eyelashes and no amount of layers could bring comfort to the bitter cold, not to a Socorran.
Socorra was hilariously bundled as she stood just inside the entrance hall, nearly rendered immobile by the layers. She blinked away snowflakes with a minor scowl peeking just over a thick scarf, her demeanor more of a grumpy nexu than something suited for any of the seemingly hundred roles she served in.
“No,” Socks grumbled to the butler droid without turning to it - too much effort - in reply to its polite request for her coat.
For the old Arconan it was surreal just being in Taldryan territory. The last time was by shuttle hijacking, kidnapping, and blackmail a decade ago. An actual open invitation now - so much had changed during the long coma. Not that she worried much of getting shanked on the way out - too many damned layers to get through first.
“Which way to warmest room?” Socks queried in the thick Black Sands native accent which over enunciated every syllable. <@837236610684813342>
Rajhin saw many books containing story’s beating to Republic Eras going back thousands of years to the time of the Sith Empire, all the way up to the Clone Wars. There were specific sections pertaining to Clone Battalions and the specifics of each unit and their accomplishment. They was even a section on great Mandalorian warriors of old, such as Mandalore the Ultimate and Tarre Vizsla, which seemed a tad out of place amongst the rest.
“Koda.”
The unmistakable gruffness of Winch’s voice was heard by the Elysia Governor. How he chose to respond, would be up to him.
Crap.
That was Darrio’s first thought when he saw Socorra. She was there on Sundari Station, she saw first-hand what he did, and he was with Ellisyn too. This could not end well.
“That one.” He pointed to the smoking room, hoping she’d take the bait before she recognised him.
“Usually for good reason,” Appius argued, but then thought better of it. Yes, Sykes was Imperial, and what Imperials did to Mandalore, Appius could never forgive, but as the old saying goes, keep your friends close, and your enemies closer. He clasped his arm around Sykes and turned back towards the Entrance Hall. “How about a few games in the Billiards Room? Nothing like a few games to build friendships, am I right?”
Sykes tensed as Appius put his arm around him. “Oya!” He said and forced a slight smile. “Billiards works well and after all, this little party is meant for establishing relations.” He allowed himself to be guided towards the room. “Jaster Mareel believed in establishing relationships.” Sykes smirked again, wondering if this new age Mandalorian would even understand his meaning. The Anzat had been there when the Jedi and Mandalorians had fought and knew the ways of the True Mandalorians.
He turned to a serving droid and ordered another Corellian Whiskey and looked around the billiards room. The tables were of exquisite quality and he nodded his approval as he grabbed the triangle from a table. “I’m the guest so I will rack, Chancellor.” Sykes eyed the Taldryan with an smirk, placing the balls in their appropriate places. “Would you mind if I smoked in here?”
“I would, actually,” Appius said, pointing to a doorway at the other side of the room. “That’s the smoking room in there. If you need to smoke before we play, be my guest.”
Appius then caught his eye on Dasha in the corner of the room, eyes deep in her datapad, and her mouth stuffed with bacon, leaving a meaty aroma in the air. <@800517155389046794> <@77213354619318272>
Sykes nodded cordially. “No need.” He stood up straight after situating the balls and stood back. “Your break.”
“Buir?” A soft voice asked, “Why is the lady dressed like she took the bed with her?”
Ankira looked curiously at the Pantoran girl next to her before following her finger. She found it hard not to let out a chuckle and whispered to her, “It’s not nice to point to people, but she comes from a world were it is very hot, she doesn’t like the cold like we do.”
“Oh… I see,” the small girl said as see looked at her own dress, then her face brightened and she ran off.
Ankira looked curiously after her little girl before she walked further down the stairs towards the entrance hall. There were many unknown people here and there was a certain tension in the air, but she was sure that everything was in place to keep it at a healthy level and hoped that Appius and his brother would behave.
“I will give this to her,” Shi'Kar said as she ran back towards her mother, “She might need it more then I ever would.” With that the girl left in search for Socorra with a large shawl in her hands.
And break he did. Appius lined up the cue, then struck the ball with adequate force. It collided with the racked up billiard balls, which spread around the table.
Ellisyn felt her counterpart tense up upon witnessing Socorra’s arrival, questions immediately swirling through her mind. Elly was never one to let uncertainty burn inside of her, so she decided to do something about it.
She relaxed her posture and leaned into Darrio, adopting a nonchalant stance. “Not used to the cold?” Ellisyn politely remarked upon the woman, who looked as if they were made of clothing as opposed to flesh.
<@141239709291511808>
“Winch.” Koda crossed his arms at the clone. “Here to enjoy yourself or is your boss keeping an eye on me? Either way, you can tell them I say hi.”
Winch hid the hurt in his heart from spreading to his face. All he wanted was his family to get along. He didn’t understand the whole auretii thing and quite frankly, neither did he care. He had a soft spot for Koda, like an uncle to a nephew, and to hear him be so dismissive of him hurt.
“I’m here on my own volition. I was invited,” Winch stated. “Perhaps we should talk somewhere more private?”
Winch gestured to the Library, and then devoured the rest of his drink.
Appius gestured to Sykes. “Your move.”
<@800517155389046794>
“Very well,” Socorra replied, still not fully acknowledging the ‘droid.’
She shifted a foot to step forward and paused, spying a little Pantoran on a mission. Socks’ dark eyebrow cocked. The girl definitely seemed to know the place, as if she belonged there. As she approached, the Seeker’s analytical mind sped through the Tal summit roster for potential parental units. She watched in peripheral as the other woman draped herself on the ‘droid,’ still not turning to acknowledge it, but acknowledging the woman instead.
“I thought Hell would freeze over before I back here. Apparently it did.”
The little girl brazenly continued to walk up to her and offered the shawl. “Here you go dala, so you’re nice and warm!”
Socorra’s single arctic eye blinked in surprise, her marshmallow-Human profile slightly moving back as well. She peered around before pointing to herself.
“For… me?”
The Pantoran nodded her head, lilac tresses bobbing around her delicate face. For a moment Socorra seemed perplexed at the sweet gift. The Sith was unused to such kindness– everything came with a price or deception. But from a strange child? There was a soft spot in her hardened heart; too many recent heart attacks maybe, or simply the fact that she had her own child now.
“Well that.. that sweet of you. It look warmer than almost everything I wearing. In fact…”
The woman dropped her fur-lined hood and started unraveling herself. With one burn-scarred hand she tossed her scarf onto the droid without looking, eliciting a giggle. Then continued, layer by layer, unceremoniously plopping them all onto the unit until finally freed from the outer clothes, her Sith rune tattooed arms plainly visible with the tank top.
Socorra knelt down to the girl, the removal of the clothes now revealing a small birikad with a sleepy delicate newborn inside, nestled warmly against her chest.
“Now let see how warm this is.” Taking the shawl from the girl’s hands she wrapped it around her neck and some over the carrier, leaving a little opening for the baby. A genuine smile crossed her ruby lips.
“Toasty! Never been warmer. Thank you, Mesh’la.”
Shi'Kar beamed with pride that she had helped someone with a simple shawl. She then looked at the little baby hidden in the carrier.
“Ik'aad,” she said with a little hesitation as she searched for the word and pointed at the baby. “Like Rausu.”
Wihtout further explanation she darted off towards her mother and tugged on her arm.
“Buir, she has an Ik'aad come!”
“Shi'Kar, slow down. There is time enough and I’m sure she would like to look around a bit before getting people hovering all over her Ik'aad, Ankira said with a chuckle, remembering full well how many wanted to see Rausu… especially because of how he looked as a mixed human and Chiss.
The little Pantoran girl pouted a little, "Aww…”
“I know what you can do,” her mother said, “Why don’t you go help Aylin and Dasha with the art projects?”
This made the girl beam again and run off towards the Drawing Room.
Darrio saw this as his perfect opportunity to sneak away! With his Foundling neice distracting both Socorra and Ankira, he began to take a big stride towards the Inner Hall, but was spotted by Ellisyn.
<@301514304845381632>
Sykes leaned over the table and lined up his shot. “How often do you play?” He asked casually as he drew the stick back. He got a good bead on his target and slammed the cue forward. His aim was certainly not true, smacking solidly into the bottom of the ball causing it to fly up and directly off the table. With a grimace Sykes straightened up and coughed. “My apologies. It’s been a while.” He sheepishly walked over, picked up the ball and placed it back on the table. “Ball in hand?”
Appius shook his head, taking the ball in his hand and focusing his aim…
Appius’ aim, by comparison, was straight and true, porting the first stripes ball the white connected with into the top right pocket.
He took his next shoot. The white richocted off of one blue striped ball into an orange striped ball, sinking both.
Feeling cocky, and perhaps a bit overzealous, Appiys pulled the cue behind his back. He hit the white, which collided with the striped purple ball, but bounced on the wall just outside the pocket. Appius tutted to himself, then handed the cue back to Sykes.
<@800517155389046794>
Sykes sighed and took a sip from his whiskey and looked to line up a shot. After his last one he felt he had to make up for his lacking form. He drew the cue back and sent the white ball into the purple solid and smiled. The ball effortlessly went into the side pocket and he leaned over for his next shot
He sent the cue ball into the next solid but effectively just moved some balls around on the table. Sykes shrugged and handed the cue back to Appius. “Getting there.” <@837236610684813342>
Appius took the cue from him, second time was the charm, as they say. However, his second attempt at a behind the back shot was more disastrous than the first, lining up Sykes for a straight shot at a pocket.
Appius sighed, and handed over the cue. Sykes was likely not impressed.
<@800517155389046794>
“I suppose we can. Anything specific you’d like to talk about, Winch?” Koda motioned for him to follow him to the study. “Today is a time to relax, not stress about things.”
They entered the Library, and if Winch noticed the giant Togorian, he made sure not to let it show.
“I’m gonna ask you a question, and I want you to give me the honest answer,” Winch said. “How are you holding up?”
<@185939710005215232>
And Koda paused for a moment, that was the last question he was expecting to hear. He let off a long sigh and look Winch in the eyes “I haven’t buckled yet. Don’t worry about me.”
“Kid, it’s my job to worry,” Winch said. Upon seeing the confused expression on Koda’s face, he decided to elaborate. “It’s my job to fix things. Boss never said it had to be restricted to metal and circuitry.”
“I don’t need fixing. Arm’s still in working condition too.” Koda put his left on on Winch’s shoulder, “You should go enjoy the party, Winch. Or do I have to give you an order?”
“Your arm isn’t what I meant, and you know it,” Winch stated bluntly, his gruff voice taking a deeper tone. “Wanna tell me what’s going on?”
“Nothing is going on that you’re cleared to know about. Alright? I’m fine. I don’t need you worrying about me.”
Sykes nodded and lined up his shot. With a light tap the yellow solid went in. He smiled as the cue ball lined up a long shot. Sykes hit again, sinking his fourth ball. He shook his head when he saw all his shots were blocked. “Tell me, what is the cause of this little celebration? My Emperor received the invitation and decided to send me for some reason I’m still not sure of. What brings Clan Taldrya to be so generous?” He asked casually before shooting again effectively just moving balls around the table. “As I said before, our Imperial Clan isn’t often asked into Republic space.”
<@837236610684813342>
“Exquisite" Raist noted as he swirled the brandy around in his mouth before swallowing. Mouthfeel… taste… temperature, all perfect. He hadn’t had brandy this good in years.
Raist immediately waved for another. He looked around and though there were plenty of patrons starting to fill the party, he wanted to greet the Governor, should he feel the need to leave suddenly, he wanted to not offend the host.
Raist grabbed his brandy the second the serving droid finished pouring it and put out the stub of a cigarra that he had left. It was a simple use of the Force that let him discern where Governor Koda was
The Study was impressive, books lined the walls and they stretched well into the second floor of the castle. Though Raist considered himself relatively educated, he had no patience to waste days devouring books. Never had, never will. Across from him he spotted the Governor engaged in what looked like a private conversation with someone he was not familiar with.
“Pardon my intrusion. Just wanted to introduce myself. I’m Raistlin, a liaison from Clan Vizsla and formerly of Clan Taldryan….” He paused for emphasis, gazing around them before he spoke again “things have changed tremendously here since the last time I was in your space.” Raist raised his glass of brandy to the Governor . “To our gracious host.” And then downed it in one swig. Neat. <@351852811883118594>
“Oh no, you don’t” Elly quickly reached out and grabbed Darrio by his armor, hooking her fingers down under the top and pulling him back with ease. She pulled him back and chuckled. “Sorry about him. He’s a little skittish sometimes.” <@837236610684813342> <@141239709291511808>
Appius intended to show off a little bit, and humor tbe Imperial whilst he was asking questions.
Kamjin…
He still remembered the fight with his daughter, and Appius had to ask himself if the father was just as unstable and bat shit insecure.
“Canto Bight,” Appius answered simply. The non-aggression pact was in place between six separate Clans, an almost unheard of feat. “If we are going to make an effort to keep the peace, then we best make that effort, you know what I mean?”
In quick succession, Appius potted another ball, and then another, finally narrowly missing the third. He had two balls left to pot before he could go for the black. He handed the cue back to Sykes.
<@800517155389046794>
Darrio stiffened as he was face-to-face with the Grand Master’s Praetor. He swallowed the lump in his throat, took notice of Ankira and Shi'Kar, and decided to grow a pair.
“Su'cuya,” he greeted.
<@301514304845381632> <@141239709291511808> <@417336769181122562>
Winch decided to shelve his questioning of Koda for the moment. There was information that could be garnered in a situation like this.
“You are former Taldryan?” Winch asked. “How much has changed since you were last here? And why leave? What prompted your exit?”
Sykes nodded as he took the cue. “It’s been a long time since the Clans have had a relative peace. I haven’t seen this level since the Exodus.” He leaned over and lined up his shot. “Perhaps this will last longer.”
He shot at his orange ball but just barely hit the bumper next to the pocket. Sykes sighed and handed the cue back to Appius. “Our tests of peace rarely last. But I do agree that we should try.”
<@837236610684813342>
Raist turned toward the inquisitive man to his left. He had seen enough clone troopers in his day to recognize the face, and the voice as well. Without a modulator it was a dead giveaway. Nevertheless Raist feigned ignorance.
“Long Before Taldryan was Taldryan…” Raist spoke wistfully. “When the whole of the clan was condensed into a single house, Ektrosis…” Raist let the word linger in the air, like some ancient language brought back to life
“I was here as a mercenary, I stayed because of the bonds forged in combat. However, time stops for no one. With my contract long fulfilled I felt it necessary to return to Naga Sadow, then my home.”
He turned to Koda, “Which brings me to the main reason I came here, should you need any kind of…. Outside assistance in establishing this new Republic of yours, please don’t hesitate to reach out.”
“I appreciate the offer, but I believe we have ourselves handled for now. That matter would best be handled with the Supreme Chancellor. I don’t get to make that decision. Besides, tonight is a night of festivities, not business.”
Socorra gave a small smile in greeting Ankira. “For this, she can hover all she likes. I can return shawl to you when she is no looking later, if you like.”
She turned to the woman standing with the butler-droid-Mando. “Greetings. Ellisyn, Darrio’s partner, yes? My condolences.”
The Sith did not introduce nor explain herself and instead turned to Darrio, her eye hardening.
“You put my nephew in danger.”
Now that she had tested her program on her datapad, Dasha decided to actually run it.
Rubbing her hands first, she pointed and index finger and blooped the button on her datapad….
Darrio, despite his initial burst of hesitation, hardened at the accusation. “You can blame the Regent and his stupid bet. Besides, the kid was a willing accomplice. He’s a good one. A little naive, but he’s got a good heart.” <@141239709291511808> <@301514304845381632>
Billiards was a game Appius was well versed in, and he demonstrated this with yet another two balls sinking into the pockets with one strike. Appius looked to Sykes to gauge his expression, though the Imperial kept a brilliant poker face.
Appius lined up his shot, and carefully sunk the black into the pocket. He smiled triumphantly. “Looks like I win.”
<@800517155389046794>
Sykes smiled back and nodded his head. “Indeed. I appreciate the game. What other wonders does this Fort hold? The art work is exquisite.” The Sith waved over the serving droid again. “Another whiskey and whatever my host is having.” He said and turned back to Appius. “If you have to join your other guests I would understand, but a tour by one who knows the building so well would be wonderful.” <@837236610684813342>
Raist clearly knew his Taldryan history, and Winch was nothing if not an inquisitive sort.
“Perhaps we should all grab a drink. I don’t know about the Governor here, but I am curious to know more of Taldryan’s history.” <@199627838368907264> <@351852811883118594>
“Of course!” Appius said. “Got anywhere in mind first?”
Suddenly, Sithmas music started playing over the speakers at a pretty pleasant volume. Any and all lights started changing between Sithmas colors at varying rates depending on the room.
“Blame who for blowing up a group of Vizslan’s and blaming it first on a poorly constructed, poorly maintained, and poorly cared for beskar'gam?” the Regent asked as he put a hand on Darrio’s shoulder, coming around the other side out of nowhere. He was surprisimgly out of his own, heavily built beskar suit, and was eyeing Darrio with a sly grin, “Seems like a lot of blame being laid and no responsibility being taken. It’s a good thing I copped to my own failing at the time the incident occurred instead of some little charade.”
Zxyl released his grip on Darrio’s shoulder, joining the group as he stepped around the typically drunk Mandalorian to face Socorra directly. He was garbed in a multi later tailored Dathomiri-Spider Silk suit of various blacks, a little homage to his original homeworld while looking fiiiiiine.
“Soccora, hello. It’s good to see you again. I trust you’ve been well?”
<@141239709291511808>
“Are we picking on Darrio again? If so, can I join in?”
Appius emerged from the Billiards Room with Sykes in tow. Upon seeing her adopted father, Shi'Kar’s eyes lit up, her arms stretched out in front of her.
“Buir!” Shi'Kar said, running towards him.
Appius picked up the small girl in his arms, a genuine warm smile plastered on his face. “Hey, sweetheart! Have you been a good girl?”
Shi'Kar nodded her head. “Yeah! I gave shawl to socky person!”
Appius raised a brow. “Socky person? Oh! Socorra! Good to see you, when did you get here? And Zxyl, too. Nice to see you relaxing for once. How’d Socorra’s armor go?”
“Whoa, whoa, whoa,” Darrio stammered. “You invited them?”
“Yes,” Appius said. “Is there a reason I shouldn’t have?”
“Two words,” Darrio raised two fingers. “Sundari. Station.”
“Which was your fault. I’ll invite who I want. The Praetor to the Grand Master and the Regent seem like good people to have on an invite list. Relax, vod. You seem a bit tense. Listen! We even have Sithmas music playing!”
Darrio mumbled something incoherent under his breath and folded his arms. Ellisyn tugged at one to let him know she was there, and his mood lightened ever so slightly. Sure enough, the jingle of festive songs played lowly under their conversation.
“So, do we all know each other?” Appius asked to the small group that had gathered.
<@301514304845381632> <@141239709291511808> <@260640060775464960> <@800517155389046794> <@417336769181122562>
“God these people can drink,” Race thought to himself as he headed back out to the dining hall. He had lost track of how many rounds he had both served and made through the massive castle.
Serving droids had been brought in in the last hour. They simply didn’t bring in enough staff to keep up. It was probably a good call but at least in Race’s mind brought the service level down a couple notches. While he didn’t like playing the part of a server it was the easiest path into the party and he had made quite a sum of money on tips from the patrons. Now, if he could just locate his target and finish his mission.
Meanwhile, a small flock of random small droids were around and caught up on Darrio being tense finally and levitated over, flipping in the air and weaving through the crowd.
They flipped around spraying each other with small glitter cannons, trying to cheer up Darrio while avoiding capture overall.
“I am familiar with Ankira, Darrio, and Socorra of course… But I have yet to be formally introduced to these two,” the Regent said of the uniformed Sykes and Ellisyn, motioning to each of them. “Socorra’s armor went well. I have hit all of the markers on the design she settled on. I’ll exchange it with you tonight, Socorra.”
“Well, this is Sykes,” Appius said, pointing behind him, and then smirking. “I just whooped him at Billiards.”
Shi'Kar meanwhile, could not stop staring at the horns atop Zxyl’s head.
Shi'Kar tilted her head slightly, looking up with bright yellow eyes, and pointed up to Zxyl’s head, “Do they hurt?”
“Shi'Kar? What did buir tell you about pointing to people?” Ankira said softly as she walked up to the group, fully dressed in her Mandalorian beskargam and nodding at them in a greeting
“I’m sorry,” the Pantoran girl said softly.
“How about we move this gathering further inside?” Appius suggested, pointing towards the Inner Hall and Music Room.
“Actually, I went to bat for you and made sure Korvis remembered it was my boss’s ship and my dare. Zxyl just upped the ante. While you did put Kaled in danger you also kept him safe. So thank you. But keep cramming foot in mouth and I have to take it back.”
She gave him a tiny smirk.
Socorra was amused by Socky person and turned to Appi and everyone else.
“And you, Lord Consul. Shi'Kar has been making sure little dragon and I are nice and warm.” She lightly patted the tiny bundle well wrapped in the birikad.
“I not met many from your clan, mostly just in course of Herald duties, and Praetor now I suppose.” She paused for a second, a tiny smirk forming in the corner of her ruby lips.
“But as an old guard Arconan, this is certainly…novel. Thank you for the invitation.”
Never having seen Zxyl out of his armor yet, the Dathomiri suit was wholly strange. She studied it quickly with the eye of an artist.
“Homage,” she said before even returning the greeting, looking back up to the Dathomirian. “Is very festive of you. I can no wait to see what you’ve done with my suit. It is obvious homage to my homeworld as well.”
“Oh and greetings, Zxyl, of course,” she lightly chuckled, raising a burn-scarred fist for a bump. “Always good to see you. In fact it feel like it was just yesterday.”
Raist smiled at the offer of a drink. He could hold his own, and was no stranger to having an alcohol-filled evening. “ Glad you suggested it, I would have bought you all a round, were we in a more neutral location. As for my services, I am merely letting it be known they are available. Your credits will not be spent better elsewhere.” Raist smiled and turned to Winch.
Sykes nodded to the Regent. “Sykes Jade.” He said and listened to the introductions. His back involuntarily straightened when the woman mentioned herself as as an Arconan. The hairs on his arm stood up and his anger immediately came boiling to the surface.
Sykes did his best to control his rage, but he knew it would boil over sooner than later, but he put on a smile and took the offered drink. Turning to Appius, he nodded again. “The Music Room certainly seems a perfect place to move this gathering.”
Appius felt the surge of anger coming from Sykes, and made a mental note to keep an eye on him.
“Buir! Can we dance?” Shi'Kar asked, her eyes lighting up at the prospect.
Damn those eyes, she knew how to wrap Appius around her little fingers.
“Come on then, folks. Nothing like music to make a party!” Appius said, as he made his way towards the music room.
“I appreciate the gesture, but if we’re to get drinks I’ll be having something non-alcoholic. With this many guests here, I still have to keep my attention on everything.”
<@837236610684813342> <@199627838368907264>
“Good idea,” Winch confirmed. Though, when he glanced at Koda’s arm, the cybernetics were unfamiliar to him. It piqued his curiosity, but he decided to shelf the thoughts for now. He’d grilled the kid enough already. “How about another drink? I’m curious to know more of your stories in Taldryan, Raist.”
<@199627838368907264> <@351852811883118594>
Appius and Shi'Kar had barely made it five steps when all the lights in the Fort went dark. Loud murmurings, gasps, and worries sounded from the patrons. Power cuts had never occurred within the Fort before, so this was most unusual.
Suddenly, a high-pitched, blood-curdling scream could be heard throughout the facility. Patrons screamed after, panic beginning to ensue. Appius grabbed his Darksaberstaff, activating the emerald blade which provided an ambient glow.
“Everybody, stop!” he yelled, and sure enough, the panicking died down. “Koda, turn on the emergency power. Anyone with anything that glows, use it as a temporary light source.”
Shi'Kar dug herself into Appius.
“Hey,” he said, comforting her. “It’ll be OK.”
<@351852811883118594> <@800517155389046794> <@301514304845381632> <@141239709291511808> <@185939710005215232> <@260640060775464960> <@199627838368907264> <@77213354619318272> <@583854106599489557>
Dasha hit Alt-Tab-F4 and then tried to run her program again to get the lights back on.
That did the trick, and tbe lights flipped back on, though what was revealed was gruesome to say the least.
In-between the Music Room and the Inner Hall lay a corpse belonging to one of the servers. A woman with her veins seemingly popping out of her skull. She had what appeared to be a small, dart-like object lodged in her neck. Her skin was pale, and a small trickle of blood leaked out of the corner of her mouth.
Shi'Kar whimpered in Appius’ arms, and he gently lowered her to the ground. He wasn’t stupid. He knew whoever was behind this would likely be after him too. He had a hefty price on his head, after all.
“Go find your buir,” he said. She would be safer with Ankira right now.
Shi'Kar gave a small nod and ran back to her mother. <@417336769181122562>
Ankira picked her up in a swift move while holding her Westar in her other hand, low by her side.
“Aylin, any idea what happened to the lights?”
Her Nautolan friend shrugged slightly, “None of my doing and I know Dasha didn’t do this either. We promised to keep it festive… horror house is far from festive.”
Dasha, on the other hand, took off to check fuse-boxes for tampering. The Sephi deftly dodged visitors, crowds, butlers, and even the random pet while letting her datapad scan the systems for others’ access.
“What in the blazes…” Koda very quickly pressed the comms button on his gauntlet and relayed a message to his guards, “Lockdown the Fort. No one in or out.” The expression on Koda’s face went from a partially relaxed one to a now scowling brow and almost a frown, he quickly went over to where the commotion was at its peak and saw the body. Without hesitation, Koda tore a tapestry off the wall and went over to cover the body, “Out of the way!” He shouted to those around, most of them moving out of the way. Koda pulled the tapestry over the body to cover it from the view of the guests. Koda had pulled up part of the tapestry and used a dart from his gauntlet to temporarily pin it to the wall. With the body covered and mostly untouched, it was time to get the people away from the body. “Graham! Get these people out of here! Gaaarl, if anyone tries to disturb the body without my permission, do what you do best.”
Graham, the Mirialan Guard Captain, started to usher people into the kitchen, billiard room, and entrance hall. Other guards assisted or proceeded to block off any exits.
Gaaarl, the massive Wookie guardsman, stood guard with Koda.
Sykes growled as he was ushered off into the billiard room. He spread out his senses to feel everyone around him, his hand never straying far from the lightsaber on his belt. “This party is taking a turn.” He muttered as he pulled a cigarette from his case and lit it.
Looking around the the various people in the room, he tried to replay everything he had seen in his mind. He had managed to catch a glimpse at the body and knew poison had been in play. He wanted to send his micro swarm out to inspect the body but knew he would be a prime suspect here in Republic space
Socorra was steely calm on the outside but her mind was reeling. Of course there was a murder and lockdown. Any event here was unlikely to do with her, but old habits die hard, and she was alone, alone with the baby, one that was waking with all the commotion. The woman’s hands were free and ready, though she dared not grasp her blades yet.
In passing she noted the murder weapon appeared to be a dart, although it seemed insufficient enough to kill the server, at least in the way they appeared to have died. Gathered were plenty of Mandos with darts, including herself, so that could mean a very long night.
She silently moved to Zxyl’s side and slightly angled her head towards him with a whisper, although she preferred speaking telepathically in that moment.
“If you can convince Appius to allow us access to weapon, perhaps you could identify it. And I may be able to see its.. previous circumstance. At the very least so we not stuck in this room all night.” <@260640060775464960>
“It’s an MK I Saberdart,” Winch said as he was ushered into the room with Raist and Rajhin. He’d overheard the end of what Socorra said, and he too had caught a glimpse of the dart as he went past. “I’d know that design anywhere.”
<@185939710005215232> <@199627838368907264> <@260640060775464960>
Appius knelt down by the body and lifted the covers gently to inspect what he supposed was the murder weapon. The dart was lodged firmly in her neck, with green veins protruding from the skin surrounding it. However, there was another detail that caught Appius’ attention.
“Koda,” Appius beckoned the Elysia Governor over. “Is it just me, or has the back of her head been struck?”
<@351852811883118594>
“Appius and I aren’t really on terms for me to convince him of anything right now,” the Regent replied to the Arconan, arms crossed. Normally he would try to assist in this sort of situation, but at this point? He wasn’t very concerned. He was more miffed that one of his ONLY nights of low responsibility was being ruined.
“I had hoped to get your armor to you during the party. I finished it shortly after that business on Sundari Station. This situation, however, is making that seem kind of unlikely at the moment. Don’t let me forget to have Hate-You bring it to your ship before you depart. When you depart. If you depart.”
Zxyl sighed. They needed to get this show on the road before this dragged on. Pulling his datapad from the inner breast pocket of his spider-silk suit, the Dathomirian made a few furious taps to The Exchange’s chief compliance and investigations officer… The former ISB Agent and former Inquisitor Ilvicar Septhis.
*I need you. Leave the ship. Approach with caution.*
After sending the message, the Regent promptly and quickly informed his two fellow MandoBros of the incoming white uniformed man, returning to Socorra’s side with arms crossed.
“Let’s hope we’re not stuck in here with the rest of the scrubs all night,” he joked.
“Ah, I see. You still fighting,” she replied with little tone and stretched slightly to peek over his datapad, not even attempting to hide it.
Heading towards the door at the very least she peered around for Appi or Koda. “This little one is waking up so this could be.. loud. If you’re willing to let me touch certain items I may be able to at least offer you some clues? Not my bantha, not my farm and all.”
Koda looks over the body “It’s possible they’ve been struck…but murder investigation isn’t exactly my forte.”
Koda then turned to who approached, offering to help, “Respectfully, unless you have verified credentials I will not allow you near the body.”
<@837236610684813342> <@141239709291511808>
“Fighting isn’t really the word. More like… Lack of caring.”
“Respectfully,” the Regent addressed Koda directly and firmly, stepping forward, “Her credentials are ‘she’s a spoonbender and better than you’. Let her help and get a move on, or let us the hell out of here. You know where to find me. It’s the giant goddamn space donut above Arx.”
Zxyl’s datapad beeped as he berated Kendis. It was Ilvicar.
*They won’t let me in. Something about a murder.*
“And for kriff’s sakes, let my man into the ‘fort’. He’s the white haired dude in a white uniform and has more interrogative talent in his little toe than most of this lot has in their entire body. He’ll rip answers outta people.”
“In case you couldn’t figure it out, I don’t take orders from you. So unless I see some legitimate credentials, no one gets past.” Koda crossed his arms and blocked the way “I’m following security protocols and if you have a problem with that, maybe you’d like to get more acquainted with my hairy friend. He can be quite grumpy…and so can I” He narrowed his eyes.
“The security protocols? Like letting in a bunch of armed guests from around the Brotherhood? Please, spare me,” the Mandalorian scoffed, “In case you’ve forgotten, I certainly don’t take orders from you. I take orders from Darth Nehalem. It’s only out of respect for Appius that I haven’t just walked out yet or put a bolt where the sun don’t shine. Nobody is going to have "valid credentials”, whatever the hell those are. Let people help, or conduct your investigation like every other investigation gets conducted. Everyone here is innocent until proven guilty and has a right to leave. That’s how a ‘republic’ works, schmuck.“
The Regent’s hand hovered near his right hip, where his WESTAR rested concealed by his suit jacket. His vambraces were primed and ready to go just in case he needed to dumb fire some whistling birds.
“You keep your hand on your blaster, you better be ready for what’s coming, pal. You’re correct in that everyone here is innocent until proven guilty, but since no one has left. The murderer hasn’t left. There’s only a limited amount of time I’m able to keep you all here, so if you would like to be helpful, back off.”
<@260640060775464960>
“So hurry up.”
Aylin had creeped up to the edge of the crime scene and frowned.
“Seriously, are we going to solve this like the old stuffy holoflicks? We got a more then a few Space Wizards around here and a few of them have those ‘I know were you been’ magic and we are going to be investigators now?” Aylin sighed deeply, “Before you ask, there is nothing on the security video’s that shows that any of us is the creep that did this. I suggest that you use of what you have instead of your ‘protocols’ or you are going to have a lot of crumpy people here. And I know one thing for sure, I’m out of here before that happens.”
Socorra folded her hands in front of her and spoke concisely, consciously tamping down her accent.
“Son, I do not require a body. But I will not be showing you my credentials - I am uninterested in the alleged murder of your servant. I was offering assistance so that your festivities could continue. If they do not, I will be walking out the door of my own free will in one hour.”
Zxyl offers a fistbump to his Socorra.
Things seemed to have kicked off in rather a spectacular fashion. Arguments had broken out, including threats of walking out. He needed to reign this in, and fast.
“No-one leaves!”
He voice, amplified by the Force, bellowed over the commotion and was heard by everyone. He was given a few disgruntled looks, a few daring him to try and stop them, but then he gave his reason.
“The more those doors open, the more our wannabe murderer has a chance to escape. We don’t know if this woman was their only target. The second you leave, you could potentially be attacked as well. Some of you have children.”
Appius glanced to Socorra, then immediately to Zxyl.
“Zxyl, I will allow your man entrance to the Fort on the condition that he will remain inside until this is resolved, same as the rest of us. Is that understood?”
<@260640060775464960>
“No.”
“Then he’s not getting in. Simple as that.”
Aylin muttered under her breath.
“Can we at least start doing things? The food is getting cold, the desserts are melting and I haven’t had either.”
“That’s fine. You’ve got your ultimatums. Get a move on, let people help, or let us go. Debating credentials is becoming annoying at best, and I’m not concerned about whatever safety or investigating you think you can provide when you get shot in your own office and incorrectly blame one of your own,” the Regent huffed as he stated the cold hard facts. He’d leave when he wanted to leave, and that was just the reality of it. If they wanted to investigate? Fine. But if they were just going to lollygag and turn down valuable assistance? The Councillor had better things to do.
Although he would almost love to see them try to stop an irate group of the Brotherhood’s most elite Equites… Avoiding an incident even in his home clan was preferable as long as it was reasonable.
Appius wanted to argue with Zxyl. That had happened once, and it was resolved! He clenched his fists at his side and was about to speak.
“Listen to him, vod.”
It was Darrio of all people who spoke. He appeared with Ellisyn in tow.
“Darrio?” Appius said.
“You organised tonight to make potential friends out of potential enemies. Whatever or whatever is behind this has got us infighting. If you want to make allies, you have to learn to trust, even if you have no reason to.”
Appius knew the exact reason behind those words. He shifted on the spot, seemingly in conflict with himself until he let out a heavy sigh.
“Fine, fine. Let’s cut the kark out. Graham, go let Zxyl’s guy in.”
Appius gave his order to the Miralian guard, who gave a curt nod and made his way towards the Fort’s entrance.
“Aylin, there’s food in the Dining Room if you need any,” Appius said to her. “I suppose we better start with the dart itself, and the poison that was used. Anyone here an expert with that sort of thing?”
“Only him, Graham. No one else.” Koda added, then turning to Appius “Chancellor this investigation needs to be moved along and your pal here is interfering. My guards will be going around to check people for the possible murder weapon.” He then turned to Zxyl “Anyone refusing to do so will be treated as a prime suspect and will be further detained, which we are legally able to do whether you like it or not. This is for the peoples safety. Those found not having a related weapon are free to leave one at a time if they wish.”
“Cool. Let’s get this over with. My vambraces have a dart launcher like any other set.”
“They might have dart launchers, but what kind of darts do they use? Darrio, I know you have a set as well,” Appius said.
“Whatever dart you want it to,” Besu'liik responded matter of factly.
Appius was starting to lose his patience. Zxyl was being unnecessarily difficult. He reached over to the body with his hand, and the dart dislodged itself from the flesh. It floated in front of Zxyl’s eyes, in view for him, and everyone else to see.
“Alright, smartass. Do you use anything like this?”
“Nope. But the Exchange does sell them.”
Socorra sighed next to them. “I have same vambrace. To my knowledge is not fitted for those dart. Since crime scene has been contaminated anyway…”
She stuck out her hand, waiting to see if Appius floats the dart over.
Appius gently flicked his fist and the dart floated carefully over to Socorra, landing gently in the palm of her hand.
“If I may intervene,” Winch said, appearing from the doorway. His arms were crossed across his chest. “Those are kaminoan saberdarts, capable of holding a variety of poisons. Most are lethal, though do ypu have reason to suspect this wasn’t?”
“The waitress had part of her skull hit. You wouldn’t do that unless you needed to,” Appius said to the group.
When Socorra concentrated, it was like the missing gaps appeared before her eyes. The waitress, once dead on the floor, appeared in front of her in a ghostly apparition, but not in the Inner Hall. It was the Music Room, from which the dart was shot from. The threads of the Force guided her towards where the shot came from, and perhaps who shot it, if she were to follow it.
<@141239709291511808>
“I need a meat shield,” Socorra said and grabbed Zxyl by the arm. She started towards the Music Room with him close. “The dart came from over here.” <@260640060775464960>
Inside the Music Room, there was a dance floor with a semi-circular stage at the far end if the room. Upon it were a collection of instruments for the band to play. Socorra was privy to one individual, skin as white as snow with a head as bald as the day he was born, fire the dart out of a launcher attatched to his wrist. It hit the server, who tried to flee. In the ensuing struggle, he picked up his clarinet and struck her with it whilst she was immobilised. From there, Socorra could see he was a Rattataki.
Paranoid of unseen shadows, the woman did in fact use Zxyl as a meat shield, though only for the little one stirring in the harness. Turning so that her back faced the wall and not the entrance, Socks watched the scene play out in her mind- the Rattataki, the dart, the server. The clarinet.
“Appius, do you normally employ band members with deadly weaponry?” Then she whispered to Zxyl, Appi, and his lieutenants. “A white, bald, male Rattataki fired the dart, but looks are deceiving. Regardless, the musician-murderer may still have the launcher…and clarinet.”
“Last I checked, no. We don’t,” Appius said. “Koda, gather all the musicians and servers. Socorra, will you be able to identify the guy if you see him?”
<@351852811883118594> <@141239709291511808>
Koda delegates the Supreme Chancellors orders to the guards and staff and, in about 5 minutes or so, rounds them all up
“Yes,” she replied, although stood by her statement that looks were deceiving. She followed Appi out to wherever seemed convenient and secure, holding Zxyl by the crook of her arm and giving the Mando no choice but to go with.
The servers and musicians were all lined up, a grand total of thirteen of various races. However, the one that stood out most to Socorra was the one at the far right, with his eyes to the floor, and skin as pale as snow. <@141239709291511808>
“Far right,” she quietly said to Appius.
Appius approached the server Socorra referred to. He had kept his eyes down the whole time, that is until Appius forcefully raised his head so their eyes met.
“You!” Appius exclaimed. He recognised the man instantly as a disgraced former lieutenant in his ranks. Zruta Dysian Jr.
Zruta pushed Appius out of the way and reached for a vibroknife holstered to his ankle. He lunged towards the closest target to him, which was Socorra, her child, and Zxyl.
Ankira was whispering something to Shi'Kar who was nodding eagerly as she was putting on her gloves and got her helmet. She knew just what to do and she was going to make buir proud.
As soon as she was ready she started to run towards them. A mini Mando was now running between the others towards her target and when she saw him jump for Socorra she jumped at him in an attempt to tackle him, or at least get him out of the way of Socorra and the baby. When they landed she began to beat him, with his own weapon of choice, the clarinet that he had disposed off.
“Bad man! Don’t attack aa ik'aad! and it’s buir
Socorra was already wary of a retaliatory strike - it usually came with the job - and had her own blades within her burn-scarred hands within a heartbeat. Her one arctic eye blinked in surprise at the little interception and a wide grin spread across her ruby lips as he was beaten by the four year old with his own clarinet.
“Oya! You tell him, Shi'Kar.”
“A right, and then a left, Shi'Kar! Tighten your grip, make him really feel those hits!” Appius continued to encourage her like the proud father he currently was.
Zruta managed to pry the little girl from him, knocking her over. He was about to retaliate when he felt his throat tightening.
Appius wagged a finger in front of him. “You’ve made a big mistake today.”
Shi'Kar rolled back to her feet and grabbed the clarinet tightly. Staring at the man in front of her she tilted her head slightly before deciding to give him the final blow. She swung her weapon up and made it land firmly between his legs. Seeing the man twitch in pain she grinned and dropped the clarinet at his feet.
“Now you better listen to my buir” she said triumphantly
“You ruined my life!” Zruta exclaimed, clutching his throat and staring hate-filled eyes into Appius. “You were my next target, and then everyone here… I was dishonoured, discharged from the military all because of you! You ruined my life!”
Appius released his hold off him as Koda approached. Zeuta’s body dropped to a slump on the ground.
“What do you want to do with him?” Koda asked.
Appius contemplated for a moment. “Bring him in. The Senate can decide his fate, unless…”
He looked to Rajhin as a wicked idea formed in his head.
“Rajhin, you still looking for that fight? I think I just found you an opponent.”
<@185939710005215232>
“Then again… The Senate should decide his fate, and the young woman’s family should be informed,” Appius said dropping the body to the ground. “Koda, take care of the body and throw Zruta in the dungeons. Then we can finish of the rest of this party!”
The order was followed, and the rest of the night went by uninterrupted, though if relations were damaged remained to be seen…