Ravelin | Jedi vs Sith

Brock Ferrum
The First Order

Posts: 135

Ravelin Aug 31, 2021 15:21:19 GMT -8 Jenia Kasalle likes this

Quote Share

Post by Brock Ferrum on Aug 31, 2021 15:21:19 GMT -8

Aug 31, 2021 12:23:09 GMT -8 Jenia Kasalle said:

"Be more concerned about those whose overconfidence and pride overshadows their promotion. For their loyality lies not with the Empire, but with themselves."

I wouldn't worry too much about that Admiral, I believe Moff Thul is more than aware of that particular type of imperial. Brock had slipped away from the group around the imperial family and made his way over to the pair just after the cadet had made her departure nodding in respect to the Empire's only remaining Grand Admiral. His words come of as polite enough but there was just enough emphasis on the last part of the sentence to imply that Standash herself was among that number. He'd never been much for political games, but over the years he'd become far more adept at the sort of political maneuvering that he'd just witnessed. While it wasn't anything he ever wanted to employ himself he'd come to see it as a different type of threat to the Emperor and so a schemer like the Grand Moff was almost universally suspect in her intentions, at least to the mind of the Steward of the Imperial Knights. He then turned to the Moff herself, offering a fencer's nod to the woman before speaking. I see you've managed to find a way once again Ms. Thul. Does your protégé realize what just happened or have you managed to convince her it was just a happy accident? He wasn't being outright rude, however he was intentionally being more direct than most of the Imperials at the party would likely be willing to be with a Grand Moff. He didn't like playing their games, but he liked letting them know that he could still understand them.... and that he very much disapproved of them.

Last Edit: Aug 31, 2021 15:24:45 GMT -8 by Brock Ferrum

Jenia Kasalle
Databank Operations

Posts: 512
Affiliation: First Order
Traffic Light: Green

Ravelin Sept 1, 2021 2:05:09 GMT -8

Quote Share

Post by Jenia Kasalle on Sept 1, 2021 2:05:09 GMT -8

Ferrum's intervention was for sure a surprise, yet a welcome one.
Within a brief moment of Jenia's stoic facade was shattered for the blink of an eye, though she wasn't astonished or angry. Out of all the individuals that would speak with her and the fellow Grand Moff, one of the Imperial Knights wasn't on her checklist. Surely she dealt with their kind in the past, as some were stationed on the Holocron during the Battle of Mon Calamari and some were still in services of the Empire on Muunilinst in order to ensure the safety of the imperial headquarters there, yet she never spoke with most of them outside of their buiseness.
Well, except for Lucien...
Thinking back on the Imperial Knight with whom she fell in love, she nearly felt guilty when remembering the last time they had seen eachother on Ilum. Back then he probably knew that something was off and that there was something that seemed to concern Jenia, yet she managed to convince him that everything was okay.
I hope he will forgive me for what I did...

Closing her eyes, she eventually regained her courage, as it were just a few seconds. Probably both Standash and Brock had noticed... it didn't need a force user to see that the Grand Admiral showed for a brief moment her emotions, something that was unusual for her when the banter among the officers around her was to be believed.
She immidiately recognized the man though, given that he stood next to the Emperor during the last conversation. More of a shadow, despite his knight armor stating otherwise, as bodyguards remained always silent until the moment they're asked to step forth. Jenia's own Novatrooper squadron was no exception when it came to that.
Somewhere aside the gala she knew, that NT-711, NT-1456 and NT-1439 were probably watching her from the distance, having themselves placed next to the Stormtroopers, that were overlooking the gala for suspicious activities in a darker corner. Like herself they know that an attack on the Grand Admiral is unlikely... even though the past had shown multiple times, that indeed a lot of people had an interest in assassinating Jenia.
Well, probably not when an Imperial Knight is around, she thought amused to herself.
Having memorized his name from the previous meeting, she greeted the knight friendly.
"Apologize, if I tend to be pessimistic from times to times, Master Ferrum, as it is tied to my duties", she added to the conversation gentle, "When it comes to Cadet Ecklund I have no doubts that she will do fine with whatever task the Emperor orders her to do. Those that I'm concerned of are luckily a few, compared to the regular recruit.
But aside that, it is a pleasure to meet you. The Knights always have my respect for their work, given that their tasks are already quite a burden for a regular person."

Thomas Zahn
The First Order

Posts: 196
Affiliation: The First Order

Ravelin Sept 1, 2021 4:03:06 GMT -8

Quote Share

Post by Thomas Zahn on Sept 1, 2021 4:03:06 GMT -8

Zahn had done the only thing he could as he stood part of this impromptu gathering of some of the Empire's elites: listen and observe. He made a note to audibly commend the Grand Moff later. What ever she might have thought of him, he had seen promise and potential in her. He might not have a great deal of acumen in the realm of politics, but he had an eye for seeing those that did. It was what had helped him rise up through the ranks. He might not fully understand a given field, but he always managed to put the best people for the task onto it. Some had failed, buckling under the pressure.

They had been tests, experiments which helped focus and refine his ability. He was quite glad that Standash had not become one of those experiments. Yet anyway.

As the gathering broke up, Zahn gave a bow and extracted himself from the group as well. There was much to begin preparing for, now that he knew what his next deployment would be. He had been kept abreast of the developing situation across the Empire and the plans that had been set in motion. Now he knew the part he was to play in everything. This party would go on for some time yet, but Zahn excused himself early as he quickly made his way back to his shuttle. The Vindicta quietly lifted off and flew away from the old Imperial Palace

Neith Ren
Knights of Ren

Posts: 65
Affiliation: Knights of Ren

Ravelin Sept 1, 2021 4:14:11 GMT -8

Quote Share

Post by Neith Ren on Sept 1, 2021 4:14:11 GMT -8

Sept 1, 2021 2:05:09 GMT -8 Jenia Kasalle said:

...Somewhere aside the gala she knew, that NT-711, NT-1456 and NT-1439 were probably watching her from the distance, having themselves placed next to the Stormtroopers, that were overlooking the gala for suspicious activities in a darker corner...

From one such darker corner a shape emerged and took the form of Neith Ren. Since her ward had insisted upon coming to Bastion at the invitation of Octavian Delvardus, Neith had no choice but to also attend this party. Her presence concealed until the moment that Fiora and Jin embraced. Harnan would be at least somewhat disappointed in this surprise, but she knew a much harsher punishment would be avoided.

For now, she strolled through the crowd of Imperials, mostly going unnoticed thanks to her Imperial Officer-esque uniform. Her helmet was the only thing that would set her apart, and few cared to look that closely beyond the uniform in this setting. Allowing her to get close to where Grand Admiral Kasalle was engaged in conversation with the Steward of the Imperial Knights and Grand Moff Thul. Neith kept her distance, but her attention and gaze were fixed firmly upon Jenia

Standash Thul
Member

Posts: 1,377

Affiliation: First Order
Traffic Light: Green

Ravelin Sept 1, 2021 11:05:37 GMT -8

Quote Share

Post by Standash Thul on Sept 1, 2021 11:05:37 GMT -8

Aug 31, 2021 15:21:19 GMT -8 Brock Ferrum said:

Aug 31, 2021 12:23:09 GMT -8 Jenia Kasalle said:

"Be more concerned about those whose overconfidence and pride overshadows their promotion. For their loyality lies not with the Empire, but with themselves."

I wouldn't worry too much about that Admiral, I believe Moff Thul is more than aware of that particular type of imperial. Brock had slipped away from the group around the imperial family and made his way over to the pair just after the cadet had made her departure nodding in respect to the Empire's only remaining Grand Admiral. His words come of as polite enough but there was just enough emphasis on the last part of the sentence to imply that Standash herself was among that number. He'd never been much for political games, but over the years he'd become far more adept at the sort of political maneuvering that he'd just witnessed. While it wasn't anything he ever wanted to employ himself he'd come to see it as a different type of threat to the Emperor and so a schemer like the Grand Moff was almost universally suspect in her intentions, at least to the mind of the Steward of the Imperial Knights. He then turned to the Moff herself, offering a fencer's nod to the woman before speaking. I see you've managed to find a way once again Ms. Thul. Does your protégé realize what just happened or have you managed to convince her it was just a happy accident? He wasn't being outright rude, however he was intentionally being more direct than most of the Imperials at the party would likely be willing to be with a Grand Moff. He didn't like playing their games, but he liked letting them know that he could still understand them.... and that he very much disapproved of them.

Standash was about to address Jenia, when Brock chimed in. She gave him a smile without her eyes. She was obligated to be respectful, she was not obligated to pretend she liked the man. She could feel his accusation, but as of now, refused to give him the satisfaction.Yes, I have had my share of experience with people like that. Crushing them was much of my motivation my first trip to Coruscant years ago. Akulas Ecklund does not seem to have those trends. She has proven to be the perfect soldier so far.
She didn't need the Force to tell he didn't trust her. It was on his face.
She trusts me. I gave her a promise long ago, I will do what is best for the First Order and what is best for her. Some of us weren't blessed with the ability to wave our hand and mess with others minds. We have to plan things to reveal truth. If she asks, I will tell her what she needs to know.Standash set her mind to this next battle. She wasn't a warrior, but this was her battle field. She made a quick note that she had more to lose here than just this fight. Jenia was a friend and trusted ally, and she was here for this. That may help in this fight, but if she wasn't careful, Brock could put ideas in the back of Jenia's mind as well.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=VsN7E35LpJE THEME

Brock Ferrum
The First Order

Posts: 135

Ravelin Sept 1, 2021 20:08:10 GMT -8

Quote Share

Post by Brock Ferrum on Sept 1, 2021 20:08:10 GMT -8

As the Ren approached the group Brock shifted almost unconsciously to watch her out of the corner of his eye, his weight redistributed slight, just enough to be ready to spring in that direction if necessary. He kept it out of his expression but he was surprised at the effect his presence was having on the Grand Admiral, though her quick recovery was a credit to her self control. He gave her a surprisingly general smile as she spoke of her respect for his order. Thank you Admiral, we all have burdens to carry, whether they are the protection of the emperor, the responsibilities of directing the Imperial starfleet, or a past that we desperately hope others will forget we have. Though he did not look directly at Standash as he said it that last part was definitely aimed in her direction. After a moment he did direct his attention to the Grand Moff to respond more directly to her own comments. I am sure she is an excellent soldier, hopefully she doesn't fall prey to the political maneuverings of those who see her as only a means to an end, as so many other soldiers seem to find their fates. Planning is a good skill to have no matter what powers one may or may not have at their disposal, though I confess life would be far more simple with the ability to wave a hand and have others to your bidding. If you ever manage to discover that secret please let me know. The smile he offered the Grand Moff was less genuine than the one he'd offered the Grand Admiral however it wasn't without a level of genuine mirth. Clearly Standash had a few misconceptions about the abilities force users have at their fingertips, especially when it comes to influencing the minds of others and that ignorance, as always, did bring some amusement to the Imperial Knight who'd been facing that sort of misconception for all of his adult life.

Jin Song
Member

Posts: 196

Affiliation: First Order- Fiora Delvardus

Ravelin Sept 2, 2021 11:20:25 GMT -8

Quote Share

Post by Jin Song on Sept 2, 2021 11:20:25 GMT -8

Aug 19, 2021 0:34:18 GMT -8 Fiora Ren said:

She had been at least vaguely aware that Jin's training had been progressing, but Harnan had never given her any details. Perhaps as a test to see whether she'd worry or try obtain answers other ways. Or perhaps he simply did not consider the information relevant for her to know. Her own studies, after all, should be her focus so that she could improve. But she also knew she'd be able to do much more with her best friend by her side
I'll be certain to make sure Master Harnan brings you back to Prakith! I won't give him any other choice! I need my best friend by my side to have my back! I'll make him tremble with fear if he thinks to say no.
She smiled and chuckled at the joke. Few things scared Harnan Ren, and Fiora was absolutely not one of those things. She was, by comparison, something of a pup compared to him. He felt no fear for her. But Fiora was quite certain he would feel pity for her cause. And that would be enough for this task

Jin joined in the laughing. She hadn't interacted much with Harnan, more of passing glances here and there. But she knew better than to think that Harnan would do anything that he did not wish to do. All the same, the thought of getting to once again be on the same planet as Fiora was enough to fill her with hope. Well, you'd better work on that scowl so I can hurry up and get back to Prakith!

Standash Thul
Member

Posts: 1,377

Affiliation: First Order
Traffic Light: Green

Ravelin Sept 3, 2021 13:22:59 GMT -8

Quote Share

Post by Standash Thul on Sept 3, 2021 13:22:59 GMT -8

Sept 1, 2021 20:08:10 GMT -8 Brock Ferrum said:

As the Ren approached the group Brock shifted almost unconsciously to watch her out of the corner of his eye, his weight redistributed slight, just enough to be ready to spring in that direction if necessary. He kept it out of his expression but he was surprised at the effect his presence was having on the Grand Admiral, though her quick recovery was a credit to her self control. He gave her a surprisingly general smile as she spoke of her respect for his order. Thank you Admiral, we all have burdens to carry, whether they are the protection of the emperor, the responsibilities of directing the Imperial starfleet, or a past that we desperately hope others will forget we have. Though he did not look directly at Standash as he said it that last part was definitely aimed in her direction. After a moment he did direct his attention to the Grand Moff to respond more directly to her own comments. I am sure she is an excellent soldier, hopefully she doesn't fall prey to the political maneuverings of those who see her as only a means to an end, as so many other soldiers seem to find their fates. Planning is a good skill to have no matter what powers one may or may not have at their disposal, though I confess life would be far more simple with the ability to wave a hand and have others to your bidding. If you ever manage to discover that secret please let me know. The smile he offered the Grand Moff was less genuine than the one he'd offered the Grand Admiral however it wasn't without a level of genuine mirth. Clearly Standash had a few misconceptions about the abilities force users have at their fingertips, especially when it comes to influencing the minds of others and that ignorance, as always, did bring some amusement to the Imperial Knight who'd been facing that sort of misconception for all of his adult life.

She worked to keep her emotions in check. She always had a distrust and a dislike of Force users, but Brock was different. It didn't really make sense why he caused her such frustration. She had developed a fine relationship with the Prince, who was quite fond of his uncle. Either way, she could feel his judgment. She had no proof that comment about forgotten pasts was about her. She wanted to retort that she was proud of her past, but that would be playing into his hands and make her look defensive. Luckily those interested in her future at the moment desire what is best for her. His Highness, your brother, is an excellent judge of character in choosing friends. The old parable "You can't chose family." came to mind, but she bit her tongue.It is true, I haven't learned exactly how your force works. Much of the subject taught on Alderaan dead ends when planetary destruction is mentioned. Carida has that same issue. Again, we are all lucky that the Prince is open to influences that can't do magic. I have enjoyed all of our conversations.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=VsN7E35LpJE THEME

Octavian Delvardus
The First Order

Posts: 165

Affiliation: First Order

Ravelin Sept 16, 2021 17:21:19 GMT -8

Quote Share

Post by Octavian Delvardus on Sept 16, 2021 17:21:19 GMT -8

Aug 31, 2021 9:18:50 GMT -8 Akulas Ecklund said:

The comforting arm of Standash's hug shook her out of it a bit. She smiled at the joke, then got red at that last comment. She spoke the only thing that she could get out. Yes mam... The Grand Moff walked away and the cadet leaned against a tall table trying to compartmentalize everything that had just happened.

Octavian watches his father disappear into the crowd. Other high-ranking individuals began to peel away now, leaving the Imperial Squire with the young Cadet Commander that was now to be included in the small contingent that was forming under his command. The Emperor, and his uncle, had desired that the young Crown Prince get some experience leading troops on missions of varying degrees, both for the Imperial Knights and the state itself. Experience that would prove invaluable in the young man's growth. Still, this was quite the development.

After a moment, Octavian turns to Ecklund. He could sense her own examination of the elevation, to come, by the rapid thoughts within her mind. Unlike his father, the Crown Prince had that ability with the usage of the Force. His own gaze looked the way Nicademus went.

Well... at least you won't be sent to garrison some world after your training.

The young Imperial says, indicating where a lot of troops usually went these days.

You will likely get to see much of the galaxy beyond the Empire's borders.

"Remember, We are Imperial Knights. There are none better."

Fiora Ren
Knights of Ren

Posts: 351
Affiliation: The First Order - The Knights of Ren

Ravelin Sept 17, 2021 1:28:56 GMT -8

Quote Share

Post by Fiora Ren on Sept 17, 2021 1:28:56 GMT -8

Sept 2, 2021 11:20:25 GMT -8 Jin Song said:

Jin joined in the laughing. She hadn't interacted much with Harnan, more of passing glances here and there. But she knew better than to think that Harnan would do anything that he did not wish to do. All the same, the thought of getting to once again be on the same planet as Fiora was enough to fill her with hope. Well, you'd better work on that scowl so I can hurry up and get back to Prakith!

There was a sense of relief Fiora felt when Jin spoke of being on Prakith. She'd felt a sense of loneliness for the past several years that they'd been apart. They had spoken often over video calls, but it had never been enough to fill the void left when Jin was not by her side
Well, I have a good teacher for how to scowl, so I'm sure it won't take long...
She gave Jin's hand a gentle squeeze, indicating who she meant when she talked of having her teacher for scowling

Akulas Ecklund
Member

Posts: 76

Affiliation: First Order

Ravelin Sept 18, 2021 17:59:30 GMT -8

Quote Share

Post by Akulas Ecklund on Sept 18, 2021 17:59:30 GMT -8

Sept 16, 2021 17:21:19 GMT -8 Octavian Delvardus said:

After a moment, Octavian turns to Ecklund. He could sense her own examination of the elevation, to come, by the rapid thoughts within her mind. Unlike his father, the Crown Prince had that ability with the usage of the Force. His own gaze looked the way Nicademus went

Well... at least you won't be sent to garrison some world after your training.

The young Imperial says, indicating where a lot of troops usually went these days.

You will likely get to see much of the galaxy beyond the Empire's borders.

In her mind she had forgotten where she was at this point, her entire life was flashing befor her. She was realizing how she had no controle over anything, it had always been in motion. She never really believed in destiny, she never realy felt she was important enough for destiny to care. Nobal people, people like the Prince had destinies. Girls with no family name were not normaly given the privilage. She knew her skils, she could inspire people and get the best out of them. She had empethy, and people loved her. Everything else she was average at really, and the product of training. She never really thought of herself as special. Standash had taken that intrest, and Akulas welcomed it but never saw the reasons. The girl had hoped that it would help her rise in the ranks. There was something more at play here. The Moff was calculating, briliant, and cunning, but there more at play here. As good as Standash was, there were too many things at play her that she couldn't have fully controled. But that still didn't make her feel better. She trusted Standash, Akulas know the Grand Moff was always working for Akulas'es best interest. Destiny, or whatever force was moving things she had less trust in.

That is what I have been preparing for, for most of my life. I was taught to be the tip of the pike, or the fotress that hold ground. Things are changing around me, and I don't know what is about to happen. Everything before this was so sure and simple, now nothing is... I have no control and I am just along for the ride.

Octavian Delvardus
The First Order

Posts: 165

Affiliation: First Order

Ravelin Oct 28, 2021 19:48:51 GMT -8

Quote Share

Post by Octavian Delvardus on Oct 28, 2021 19:48:51 GMT -8

Sept 18, 2021 17:59:30 GMT -8 Akulas Ecklund said:

That is what I have been preparing for, for most of my life. I was taught to be the tip of the pike, or the fotress that hold ground. Things are changing around me, and I don't know what is about to happen. Everything before this was so sure and simple, now nothing is... I have no control and I am just along for the ride.

Octavian looks at Ecklund as she speaks. It sounded like everything that had been planned before was turned upside down.

Fate always has other plans for us, Akulas.

His finger gestures in the direction of the Emperor who departed the festivities.

When my father lived on Eriadu, he was but a security officer. Then, the stars called and new roles were thrust upon him... overnight, he came Supreme Commander of the Imperial Military. And eventually, rose to the throne of an Emperor. My father likely had planned to always stay on Eriadu, but fate called him to do something else, something more important.

The Imperial prince places a hand on the cadets shoulder.

Think of this of fate opening an door for you. She doesn't want you sitting in a fort, drilling a garrison, or... policing some streets. No, she wants you to have a far more important role in this Empire and its future. She wants you out there.

Octavian points to a display of the stars that was shown for all gathered. Earlier, it had shown off the revived 181st Imperial Wing, a celebrated unit that was revived for both military and propaganda roles within the Imperial Intelligence. Now, it was just open space, letting all see the stars.

One day, when you thought you were just going to be a garrison commander, you will look back when you are a major of a seasoned Stormtrooper unit. One that has fought hard and well for the Empire you believe in. And you will smile upon this day, knowing Fate helped you.

"Remember, We are Imperial Knights. There are none better."

Akulas Ecklund
Member

Posts: 76

Affiliation: First Order

Ravelin Oct 29, 2021 21:47:32 GMT -8

Quote Share

Post by Akulas Ecklund on Oct 29, 2021 21:47:32 GMT -8

Akulas listens and feels his hand on her shoulder. She was a little surprised at how comfortable she was with his hand there. I have never given much thought to fate or destiny. I guess I never felt I was worthy of a destiny... They are for she put her hand on his on her shoulder and looked at the prince. They are for people like you, like the Grand Moff. I guess it is hard for me to think of myself as special. Standash has tried to make me feel special for the past few years, but it hasn't really stuck. I can't imagine you can relate to that too much.

Octavian Delvardus
The First Order

Posts: 165

Affiliation: First Order

Ravelin Nov 1, 2021 17:31:14 GMT -8

Quote Share

Post by Octavian Delvardus on Nov 1, 2021 17:31:14 GMT -8

Octavian felt the young cadet's hand touch his. There was a hesitance within his muscles as the fingers flexed slightly before releasing her shoulder. Slowly, it is pulled away, disconnecting the pair physically. The Prince quietly takes his hand into his other grasp, rubbing it gently. For a moment, there was some confusion in his gaze before thoughts were put back in order and Octavian could look straight at Akulas again.

Everyone has a purpose, a destiny, a fate. It is not reserved for just the highest of people.

His eyes turned to look at Grand Moff Thul who was a ways away. His head nods towards her, indicating Standush subtly to ensure the Cadet understood what he was doing. A conversation from many years ago was replayed in his mind. The first time that the young prince met the Grand Moff in the training facility at the Imperial Palace on Coruscant. She had intruded, without warning, but proved to be a source of wisdom for the young Octavian.

She told me about how I am guaranteed to, one day, become the man I was meant to be. That I have a purpose in this galaxy and that no matter what influences me along the way, I will still end up my own person. We do not have a choice on who we are meant to be. Others may influence my path, but in the end, I will be who I am meant to be by my own hand.

His eyes turn back to Ecklund.

You have been given an opportunity that will influence your path, Ecklund, but in the end, you will become yourself as is fated to be. You have been given a new path, away from what was thought to be intended. Do not think of it as... you having no control. It could be the right door opening to help you on your way to true self.

"Remember, We are Imperial Knights. There are none better."

Akulas Ecklund
Member

Posts: 76

Affiliation: First Order

Ravelin Nov 6, 2021 21:31:58 GMT -8

Quote Share

Post by Akulas Ecklund on Nov 6, 2021 21:31:58 GMT -8

Huh...She paused and thought. That sounded like something Standash would have said. The Moff had never shared that wisdom with Akulas, but that was understandable. The girl had never feared destiny, well before tonight, so it wouldn't have made sense for this to come up. The more she reflected, she heard the words more clearly. Nothing really had changed. She was still her. The strong, shorter girl, who was capable of getting more out of people than they thought they were capable of. She would still set out to try her best in every task, whether she could win it out not. She was still the person she always was, just now she was going in a different direction. Her confidence came back to her a bit. She heard the band playing music, and saw others dancing. She loved to dance, her father had taught her as a girl. And she rarely got the chance anymore. The only boy around her she had really met was the prince, so she supposed he would have to do.

So, we have established that I have no idea how to act around Princes... Am I allowed to ask you if you want to dance? It has been a long time since I have been able to, and you are the only boy here I know.

Octavian Delvardus
The First Order

Posts: 165

Affiliation: First Order

Ravelin Nov 9, 2021 21:03:29 GMT -8

Quote Share

Post by Octavian Delvardus on Nov 9, 2021 21:03:29 GMT -8

Octavian wasn't even looking at the dancing on the floor. The Crown Prince had glanced over at Fiora, seeing how happy she was to see Jin, her... well, the only true friend she had now. The Imperial suspected that the lurking Harnan was likely a shower ready to rain on those two. However, his attention immediately snapped back to Akulas the moment she mentioned the word 'dance'. His formal education had included learning the revived Imperial etiquette that was becoming the social norm of the renewed nobility. Dancing had proven... difficult. Give Octavian a lightsaber and he could dance around the room in an artful display of martial prowess. Put a woman in his hands and onto the dance floor, that was an entirely different scenario that wasn't a good one.

Calmly, the Imperial rubs his hands together. A display of nervousness that had become a habit of his as he grew up. Octavian was put on the spotlight here with this request by the cadet. No one had ever asked him to dance... well, his stepmother, the Empress Faina, had at times when he was younger. She had been a good mother to him, in light of his birth mother's disappearance. Still, that was different! Children were expected to dance with their mothers after all. Stars above! Akulas was still waiting for an answer! Octavian's hands pause abruptly as the young prince looks at her.

...I am hardly a good dancer. Being a warrior is like a dance. That comes rather natural for me by now, but in a formal way...

He glances to the right of them, seeing the couples and pairs dancing at the music in perfect rhythm.

...I am sorely a disappointment, Akulas. I would certainly embarrass you.

Octavian admits as he did not want to lie. Honesty was another virtue, but also weakness in a ways, of his. The Imperial then grips his hands, takes in a deep inhale, and then turns his head to look at the dancing. Not like he had anything else to do! No reason to say no beyond his inabilities after all. Plus, the Imperial could give Fiora and Jin a good laugh. His father would certainly get a kick out of his son's failed attempt to dance with someone! Not to mention his uncles. Brock could certainly use a reason to smile.

You know what! Let's dance!

Octavian, finally having made up his mind, takes Akulas' hand quickly and proceeds to lead them to the floor. This gesture immediately catching the eyes of all present as they saw the young heir to the Empire taking a Stormtrooper Cadet directly to the dance floor. There were certainly women, and fathers, that were rather upset at this sight, but plenty more were intrigued.

Last Edit: Nov 9, 2021 21:07:12 GMT -8 by Octavian Delvardus

"Remember, We are Imperial Knights. There are none better."

Standash Thul
Member

Posts: 1,377

Affiliation: First Order
Traffic Light: Green

Ravelin Nov 10, 2021 22:27:53 GMT -8

Quote Share

Post by Standash Thul on Nov 10, 2021 22:27:53 GMT -8

As she waited for the Brock Ferrum's response, she watched the continued reaction between the Prince and her protege. Standash was an expert political stradagist. It would be self-deprecating for her not to admit this to herself. She guessed that is why Brock disliked her, there was a parallel between them. She distrusted him for what he could do that she couldn't, and he likely distrusted her for the thing she could do that he couldn't. She was capable of planning and convincing others, directing things in subtle ways to achieve an ultimate end. She understood how and why people reacted they way they did and could predict likely outcomes. Yes, to Brock's point, she had been planning the young woman's career. Standash desired for the Emperor to see her in action and to realize she was special. That girl would be the future Grand Marshal of the First Order. This assignment with the prince was something she never thought likely, but it was possible. What she was watching play out now was not something she had predicted. She should have, Akulas was a pretty girl, and the Prince was a handsome boy. Despite their strict upbringings, there were still teenagers. Standash's own drive made her forget the idea of romantic attachments for as long as she could remember, maybe that made her forget others she cared about would have those feelings and urges. This... This is unexpected.In a rare moment of authenticity in front of a rival, she admitted a failure on her part. Not directly at Brock, but she said it knowing he would hear it. Maybe an honest vulnerable moment would thaw the relationship. She was not hiding her emotions in any way. She felt fear for her protege as she saw the daggers cast the soldier's way by the elite with teenage daughters. Worry gripped her for a moment, but it was soon replaced by a cold determination to protect. She made a note to pull up the information on those that may seak to express their anger. Akulas may not be a noble or a political force, but the girl was under Standash's protection.Taking a break from this wonderful exchange Lord Ferrum, to your knowledge... Does his highness know how to dance?

www.youtube.com/watch?v=VsN7E35LpJE THEME

Harnan Ren
Knights of Ren

Posts: 601
Affiliation: Knights of Ren

Ravelin Nov 20, 2021 5:25:00 GMT -8

Quote Share

Post by Harnan Ren on Nov 20, 2021 5:25:00 GMT -8

With Fiora off reuniting with Jin, Harnan could fade into the corner of the celebration he had been occupying. The nearby Imperials were a lot more willing to speak more freely about how they truly felt regarding Harnan and the Ren. Not that it particularly bothered him any more. Fiora was always trying her best to improve the image of the Ren, but it was a wasted exercise as far as he was concerned. Most Imperials had already made up their mind where it concerned the Ren. But they would smile and wave for the Princess of the First Order, as custom dictated

Akulas Ecklund
Member

Posts: 76

Affiliation: First Order

Ravelin Dec 1, 2021 22:08:59 GMT -8

Quote Share

Post by Akulas Ecklund on Dec 1, 2021 22:08:59 GMT -8

Akulas follows the prince. She was a little disappointed that she was in the formal uniform instead of a dress. The fabric and the cut did let her move well, but dance, even a basic one was meant to have some flash. She became very quickly aware of the other girls, the noble girls, all in spectacular gowns. Their eyes burrowed into her, she did not fully understand their venom. She takes the hand of the prince and puts her hand on his shoulder. She lowers her voice so only he would hear her over the music.
How... How many rules did I just break? How angry will Standash be at me when I get home? I can lead if you need me to, and make it look like you are leading...

Octavian Delvardus
The First Order

Posts: 165

Affiliation: First Order

Ravelin Dec 2, 2021 20:55:17 GMT -8

Quote Share

Post by Octavian Delvardus on Dec 2, 2021 20:55:17 GMT -8

Octavian paused when Akulas touched his shoulder. Immediately, the male noticed the glares of women nearby, but looking away when the Prince took notice. With the Force, he sensed emotions of jealousy, anger, and spite. These emotions focused in their general direction. It didn't take a science to understand why. Given the age of the Emperor, and the availability of his offspring, there was almost a mad dash and a crowd seeking to link themselves to the royal dynasty that had revived the Empire.

The Crown Prince, given his age and just about to crest into his destined role as an Imperial Knight, was a greatly desired bachelor. Him and his father had already taken notice of offers of matrimony from a number of old and new bloodlines within the Empire. Loyal officers, influential nobles, and more were persistent. And stars knows how many times Octavian heard his father laugh at how they tried to gain the upper hand with 'bribes' or what they called 'betrothal gifts'. It seemed the Emperor got great amounts of entertainment from these offers which, sometimes, bewildered the young Prince as to why they were funny.

Octavian refocused on Akulas, sensing a greater flare of jealousy rising nearby. For a moment, the Imperial seemed unsure of how to answer. Then decided that maybe a vague answer would do best? The Prince wasn't exactly an expert with women after all. Not like his father who had married two women.

...I suspect several.

Octavian states in a low voice. He wasn't sure what rules Akulas was asking about, but given the reaction, likely a handful.

I don't think the Grand Moff will be angry...

Again, an uncertainty but something to cross when the time came. As for the last bit:

You sure about being able to do that? Isn't who leading in a dance pretty obviously noted?

"Remember, We are Imperial Knights. There are none better."