Log:New Alderaan: A Storied Knight

A Knight arrives to meet some friendly faces

OOC Date: September 24, 2021
Location: Chandrila, Alderaanian Hangar
Participants: Ban Iskender, Sorin Endesea, Aubrei, Ulani Kalgaav, Bors Thul, Chani Tahn, Aryn Cortess

Evening has chased the sun away, leaving the stormy clouds of a cool rain. Between the perpetual patter of rain and sounds of ships moving around, low thunder can be heard after brief flashes of lightning from the coast. The hangar marked by the standard of Alderaan stands out as a common place to find nobles congregating on this pretentious rock named Chandrila. While not out of place on Chandrila, Alderaanians did have a peculiar style and penchant for grand things.

Of the standards that fly out in front of the hangar, the second highest flag pole is reserved for the Royal family, and when its standard is up, that means someone from that line is inside.

Tonight, the flag of Cortess whips with the occasional wind, its green, bronze, and white visible through the beams of light angled at it.

The large doors are closed, but the smaller door is open with light from inside shining out. A young girl of eight, with dark hair, runs around inside. To the observant eye, that's Avlin Teraan, the last surviving member of the Great House Teraan, and the rightful Duchess of Delaya. So grand is the child's title and lineage, yet here she is playing with an animal. She casts a ball for it to fetch and laughs as the small furry canine bounds after it. When she catches up to it and wrestles the ball from its mouth, it's cast out again.. only this time the ball bounces right out the door. "Oh no!-- Leo.. do not go out there--Ack.. no, come back!" Her animal is beyond restraining and it bounds outside to find it, leaving the small barefoot child to occupy the threshold of this door a moment to look out into the darkness.

"Leeeeooooo!" She calls out, a slow rumble of thunder following.

Chandrila is far more beautiful than Nar Shaddaa could ever be at night. The armored figure in green wearing a dated set of armor to an era long since passed leads the way slightly ahead of a taller figure. <"Is..is that it?"> The vocoded feminine voice points towards the flags waving as they near the hangars. The question is ignored the moment the creature emerges from inside and the cry of the young girl reaches Aubrei's ears.

<"Stop the ...dog..I think its a canine."> Hard to get real detail presently but she is stepping forward, helmet on, looking not so inviting presently as she stoops to try to stop the fleeing animal. <"Here, here little on."> She really is no animal wrangler but she is trying desperately. The armor is a bit scuffed up here and there, but it still manages to catch some of the light filtering out from the door.

<"We have him little one!"> They do right? They should. She comes about quick as the thing goes through her legs, slipping right through her fingers.

Walking towards that particular hangar, Sorin's stride maintains his position directly aside the Mandalorian. Suddenly a ball bounces out of the hangar's personnel entrance, and though night has fallen there's just enough ambient illumination from within to highlight it's journey as it bounces again, and again, and then proceeds to roll in the slightest of curves. Right between Sorin's legs. He bends low in an attempt to intercept but brushing fingers are not successfully grasping fingers, and it escapes. His effort does, however, slow the ball and impart a bit of spin that circles it just enough... and with a side-long leap he manages to secure it. Just in time for Aubrei's calls to a bounding canine to go unanswered. A held ball, though, is like a magnet and a quick grin is sent his companion's way. "Yes, that's it. The standard there, green, bronze, and white? The Princess." His hazel gaze is sustained for an additional moment, meeting with the Mandalorian's opaque visor.

The pair near the open door, and the small girl standing just there. Sorin smiles, and when near enough bends low, hand extended in offer of the ball. "I do believe this belongs to you, young Miss." Is it possible the man doesn't recognize the Duchess on sight? It seems overtly obviously.

Stopping at the thresshold, a side-long look meets Aubrei. "And inside we shall go, Miss Aubrei." He gestures, ever the gentleman. Some things have been learned, despite distance from this life. Until now.

Does he come from Planet Alderaan? Where women glow and dueling lordly men blunder. Can't you hear, can't you hear that thunder? Pup better run, better take cover!

No flute bridge hails the entry of the dapper, dashing and monocle wearing Lord of Thul - though Lord being only a birthright title; it's Uypiia Thul who rules, their Parents all but officially retired on the matters of court. BUT it is Lord Bors who bears the courtly, and intriguing, scar over his right temple.

The visible scar.

Don't as about his leg.

He is no hand at canine capture - but his Valet Kuhlai is there where needed to aid in the Mandalorian Managing of Mangy Mutts. It's good because Bors just looked quite silly - and he had to pull his arm from Ulani's in order to fail at his brief foray into animal control. Confound it!

(Language, Bors)

"Hail and therin strays a companion!"

Kuhlai is chuckling, aiding Aubrei now and tipping his bright red fez at her at the same time. Kuhlai D'Mahn. Oh yeah.

Ulani looks up to the darkened sky at the gathering clouds that seem to be communicating with each other with flashes of light. Whatever secret they are telling each other is not kept a secret for long with the rolling thunder. Walking alongside Bors, she looks ahead towards the hangar in the hopes they can get there before the downpour. "Mmmm... a storm is--"

And there's a blur of fur that whizzes past and Ulani yelps gently with a start. "Ah!" What scene is it they have stumbled across here? A dog, a young woman, a Mandalorian, an unfamiliar man.... what a scene indeed. "Bors, did you get him?" It's a little too dark to see. Or too chaotic in the brief seconds.

Night is beginning to descend on Chandrila, but the spaceport remains a bright spot some small distance from the light-glittering towers of Hanna City. There are multiple private hangars away from the main landing field, and while most are accessed by speeder courier, a young woman with dark hair and a dark brown robe draped over her shoulders approaches on foot. A commotion is afoot near a bannered hangar that many will recognize as belonging to Princess Aryn Cortess, and Chani plays witness to it from a distance. That distance closes with no particular rush. Her gait is easy, even despite the bag carried in her left hand. It doesn't sway, hinting that whatever might be within could be fragile. Yipping into the night, an animal seems on the loose.

Chani regards it with quiet humor, though that humor is tempered by the encroaching storm clouds that prevent the ocean-side city from experiencing its usual colorful sunset. "Hello, small friend." Whether or not the animal can be bothered to take notice of Chani's greeting or her presence is anyone's guess. It doesn't stop her walking, though, intent on the hangar as she is. She, too, would prefer not to be caught in the downpour. "Did someone's animal escape?" Part of her wonders if a more unconventional method for retrieving the overzealous creature is in order, especially with the storm close enough that the pressure of the thunder's rumbling can be felt.

Avlin Teraan watches with wide eyes as shadows approach the hangar. A few seize her animal, thank the Gods, Leo could terrorize the entire starport if given the chance. Her ball is also claimed. When offered the ball by the tall man, the dark-haired youth back tracks several paces and balls her hands together nervously. "L-laaady Aryn.. S---someone is here!" Frightened by all, Avlin seems incapable of hiding those emotions. Avlin is troubled and haunted from the disaster on her homeworld. This changes when the short blonde that is Aryn steps in front of her to first comfort her, then turn to see who all approached.

"Yes, yes we do have visitors. -- This man has retrieved your ball, now be a Lady and accept it back. You are safe here." Aryn confides confidently, but it's spoken loud enough for the others to hear.

"Yes ma'am.." Avlin says, and she draws close, shy and red cheeked, and extends her hand out to take the ball. "..thank you, sir.." Said softly. Her eyes meet Sorin's a moment, then travel further back to see her animal being returned, too. "Leo!.. Come here, boy! Go...GEEET the ball!" She says, giggling, hurling the ball toward the ships in the distance. It's unclear if the animal can get away from his captors, but he 100 percent wants that ball! Avlin claps her hands together, prepared to chase after him again.

Aryn straightens and rises to her full height, motioning everyone inside. "Come in, my friends. The rain is soon to fall in heavier volume!"

Fez. There is a man with a fez behind her and she can see some of him from between her legs in the awkward position she is in that is not at all flattering. Up she comes and nods to the cheerful looking fex wearing man. The helmet gives no indication of the smile that is worn inside.

<"My thanks...Ser Sorin it appears this is a very busy hangar, are you sure you wish me to remain? I could if you would like.">

Her head turns taking in Bors, Ulani, Chani as she passes and then finally another voice with the young girl and the mandalorian turns. She could suggest she wait at the ship again but someone has invited her in and she is guessing they are nobility.

Going quiet Aubrei falls into step behind Sorin, deciding to play quiet and observant companion to the knight. Nobles. Nobles are everywhere. The excited buzz is self contained inside the armor.

The sight of a frightened child softens Sorin's expression, and even as Aryn approaches, bolstering the young Duchess, he remains low, hand out in offering. As the ball is taken, and Avlin's thanks conveyed, Sorin nods around a genuine smile. "You are quite welcome, young Miss. Balls have a fondness for open doors, and yours seems quite adventurous."

Aubrei's words draw his attention as he rises, answering with a simple touch of armored vambrace and an easy, "Yes, Miss Aubrei. I do wish you to remain. And thank you for doing so."

But then... a woman he most definitely does recognize, though this be their first formal introduction. Sorin's hazel meets Aryn's blue, for but a moment, before he drops a bent knee and bowls low, head inclined for a moment before he again looks up. "Thank you, my Princess. I am Ser Sorin Endesea. You are in receipt of my letter. I have arrived, foremost, in hopes of securing an honorable final resting place for my father, Lord Malar Endesea." He looks to Aubrei for a moment, then back to the Princess. "Accompanying me, Miss Aubrei. A warrior-scout who has graciously offered to assist me in my duties."

All is in order. The young animal is gathered up for the young Avlin, the guests are greeted, and Princess Cortess invites them in. Chani recognizes Lord Bors Thul and Ulani Kalgaav, but the Mandalorian is a new one. At least, she's not seen that particular scheme of paint on a heavily armored figure before. Her dealings with the Mandalorians have been brief when they've happened, and the last time she'd been around a pair of them, a large sentient had tackled her to the ground and proceeded to try to feast on her leg. All her encounters with Mandalorians, as a matter of fact, seem to have been in combat. Chani is hardly surprised. There is another man, too, that she does not recognize, but his fair hair and lightly colored eyes make a suggestion.

She is quiet in the interim, allowing her to pick up the Mandalorian's name and the man's in turn. His genuflection before Aryn solves the mystery for Chani, who remains back from the procession of Alderaanian nobles and those accompanying them. The neutral expression on her face and the patience in her stillness go far to suggest that Chani has no problem with this. There are, however, quick glances towards Lord Thul and Ulani, although this changes nothing about her demeanor.

"Least it be the downpour of Chandrila - though Alderaan Anew still compares to none - if only for the wonder of it resting as it hangs now in eternity." Bors strides towards the group, watching the young lady - whom he helped rescue. The Naboo whom has come to call is sighted easily; offered a polite nod as Miss Tahn's due, but the focus of his movement is Her Highness first.

Coming to genuflect in full, knee touching the floor, and bowing his head to Aryn once he is a respectably close distance, "My Princess, Your Grace, ever is it the s golden hour of post-dawn to find my presence matched to your own." standing after a small, respectful, time knelt before Her Highness.

Chani again is noted when her looks flick between he and Ulani; the brow over his left eye climbing slightly - the right held firm as the monocle before his eye.

Aubrei is in luck and she doesn't even know it! It isn't /just/ nobles here! Only mostly nobles!

With the wayward canine under control, Ulani breathes a sigh of relief. This world is filled with terrible travesties, but the Maker be damned if a small girl loses her dog under the watchful eye of those who can prevent it. Tonight's heroes are a Mandalorian and a fez-wearing valet. What an unlikely pair, indeed. "Oh, thank goodness. I would've been out in the rain looking for him all evening if I must have. The upset would be too much."

Following Bors into the hangar, Ulani first looks to the little girl with a curious tilt of her head; recognizing her from the news channels that had been discussing the turmoil on New Alderaan. Not far behind her is Aryn whom Ulani is about to approach in greeting, but any movement forward is abruptly halted when the unfamiliar man is bowing in front of her. What started as a polite gesture to keep her distance turns deep and somber at the mention of Sorin's quest. Brows furrowing deeply, Ulani hugs her arms and a quiet swallow pushes any other emotions down back into her stomach where they belong.

Blue eyes spot Chani nearby and a blink of recognition paints her expression. Yup. Definitely an interesting night.

"Rise, Ser Sorin. Lord Thul. I am humbled by you both, please find comfort here so we may speak." Aryn says, making the polite gesture for both men to rise. "I received your letter, Ser Sorin. Let me first offer my condolences for the loss of your father. Dark days, indeed. I would be honored to assist you in this task."

Aryn shifts then to regard Sorin's companion, Aubrei. "Miss Aubrei, I am Aryn. Welcome to Chandrila, ma'am. For escorting Ser Sorin back to his kinsmen, you have my thanks. Please, make yourselves comfortable.. there are seats just there, beyond the ships with refreshments." Aryn points.

Her next stop is Lord Thul, and she reaches out to take his hand and gently squeeze. "I had worried when I heard of Corellia's fate, my Lord. It warms my heart to see you whole and healthy. Miss Ulani, that extends to you, as well."

"Chani, I see you there--" Aryn is cut off by the shrill excited child that is Avlin, who yells "CHANI!" And proceeds to sprint for the Naboo native and collide with her for a tight hug. Leo, the fur-baby who was released to chase the ball has now captured the ball and is low-key growling as his head goes back and forth, whipping it about. He is over by the ships, no longer at a risk of running back outside again.

"Well, I think we are all acquainted.., come and sit, let us talk.-- Ser Sorin, tell us about yourself.. where you have been, what you have done."

Aryn leads the way to the seating area. There's ample refreshments, mostly wine or cooled juice (in a cold storage), plenty of glasses and cups, and some snacky treats. Seating is by way of appropriate long couches arranged in a way they all face toward each other with a knee-height table at its center for convenience. The holo-emitter at the table's center is on, but its images have no sound as it seems to be a news channel which has been muted. Aryn waves her hand and it turns off.

The unscheduled assembly within the royal hangar receives yet another entrant. Although the intensifying rain covers much of the noise, it cannot wholly drown out the distinctive whine if repulsors as a speeder bike approaches, slows, and is guided within once the larger doors are opened only just enough to admit the mechanical steed and it's rider. Closing the doors promptly behind himself, the rider in heavy durasteel armor and a sodden green half-cape dismounts the speeder, one gauntleted hand steadying the lie of a sheathed sword at his side, before drawing off his helm, holding it beneath one arm and noting the unexpected gathering. *My apologies for the intrusion," Ban offers in a steady voice and with a short bow of the head and shoulders.

<"That is kind of you...your..your highness. I am only doing what I can."> She might be getting a contact high from being near so many nobles. She awkwardly tries to lower into a bow, the armor shifting and giving her some difficulty in the motion but she manages all the same.

Slowly she rises again and follows, keeping mostly to herself as she glances aside to the others, trying to mark names with faces as Aryn greets them all. Such a gathering.

Only when the darkness is pushed back and Aubrei feels herself able to see without the aid of her helmet she reaches up to carefully give it a slight turn and then pull upwards. The creature within is blonde, some of it curling about her face as the rest is braided and wrapped about her head to keep it out of her face. Two prinpricks of light glow and pulse with light as they hover in the air near her, bobbing. Fireflies, they are fireflies.

Aubrei smiles at them all, emerald eyes taking a brief momen to look down. On her right cheek is an angry three lines from what looks like tiny claws of some sort - it seems fresh.

Princess Cortess has a lot to deal with this evening. Lots of bowing nobles and a new one, in particular, who seems to have come on a grave mission. Her presence here seems intrusive in that moment, though Chani suppresses the urge to quietly excuse herself and come back another time. There are some important matters she should attend to. It's for that reason that she approaches Lord Thul and Ulani, bag still clutched in her left hand. She doesn't need it to be empty for the purposes of bowing at the hips. "Lord Thul, Miss Kalgaav. Forgive me for interrupting, but I wanted to apologize for our encounter on Naboo. Especially to you, Lord Thul. You were attempting to ease my concerns, but I let my emotions get the better of me. I don't believe this apology alone fixes things in any capacity, but I hope that we can continue working together moving forward."

The bag in her left hand is lifted from its position and her right dips into it. Her fingers seize a long-necked bottle and withdraw it from the bag. It's presented to Lord Thul. "On another note, Winter Fete has begun. It's only a small gift, but I would like you to have it. I have one for you, too, Ulani." Only the loud announcement of her name gives her time to brace for the sudden hug launched into her side by Avlin. Surprise turns into humor, and Chani leans a small, meager amount of weight into the hugging girl. "Hello, Avlin. Since when did you have a puppy?" The hangar is turning into a larger gathering than any of them possibly conceived, especially as Lord Ban Iskender arrives. The nobles almost outnumber the peasants at this point. "Lord Ban."

As they begin to gather around the table, Chani has one more bottle of wine to give out. It's offered to Aryn. "For Winter Fete, Your Highness." She's unfortunately unprepared to have gifts for them all. Despite being Jedi, she is not yet quite attuned enough to the Force to predict or see the future. Knowing the Princess, though, Chani would not be surprised if she offered some to all present.

There's a moment of released tension, as Sorin visibly relaxes. A moment is taken to shift his attention among those nearby, brief greetings offered in sequence. Bors receives a respectful dip forward of a straightened back, hand held stiffly across his midsection. "My Lord," he intones, still uncertain as to which Lord, but Aryn had provided the greeting. Ulani receives a similar gesture, along with a smoothly delivered, "My Lady." An assumption there, but to err on that side was, to his mind, preferable to the alternative. Chani receives a warm smile, and an easy, "Of Naboo. A beautiful world, visited several times." And finally, Ban's arrival and gesture draws a nearly identical reply, nearly save the slight additional depth in his own bow of head and shoulders. As a Ser there were none below, many above. Assumption runs in one direction, when properly applied.

As Aryn invites the party deeper within, Sorin walks alongside Aubrei. The removal of her helmet is met with dark hazel inspection of those claw marks. "When we are finished here, we'll see to your... injuries." There's a hint of a smile, edged with mirth, just making itself apparent... though not without resistance. "A battle scar."

As they continue, the newly arrived Alderaan answers Aryn's question. "My family survived in hiding on Coruscant for some time, when I was very young. My father did not rejoin the refugee fleet, choosing instead to find and free those of our people as we could find within Imperial Remnant territory. For years we did just this. Together. He, a Lord and Knight, and me, his son. His sword-arm." There's a twinge at the corner of his lips, and he pauses, but only for a moment. "For too long /we/ did this. His journey came to a premature end but one week ago, on Nar Shaddaa." No specific details, but the world itself made suggestion it was probably not a natural death. A small smile is shared with the Princess. "He believed in the future of our people, but felt his place was away from... this. Seeking those that have not yet been found, to send them here. He spent too long away. And I am here, in part, to rectify that."

"Your Highness, I pay my respects above and beyond thine station for you are so deserving of more than you seem to feel owed." Bors's head bows as he speaks, motioning towards Aubrei and beginning what would likely be a broad vernacular tirade extoling her positives and how Aryn's own are such as to garner her attention when Chani's words take him completely off the path. Lips pursing. He looks to Sorin, to Ulani, Aubrei, Ulani, Sorin - then BAN! SOrin is offered a small 'Be right with you, sir' apology look just before Chani mentions the Fete and the gift to be given.

The bottle taken and Bors's brows are lofted to such a degree that the monocle pops from its place before his eye to swing like some majestic, gold and crystal, time-keeping pendulum clipped somewhere within his clothes where it can easily be worn at his eye.

But now it hangs, a surrogate to his jaw that remains fixed - as is proper.

"My Lady Tahn - I do appreciate and such is that goes well and beyond any sort of amend that thee feel had need to make. I accept and beg only that needless guilt be washed away. It is a rode trod without hesitation and shall be continued regardless of what stones fork the current before me." bowing low at the waist to Chani before finally lifting his monocle to place before his eye again.

It is organized chaos. Polite and proper. Bows and honorifics. A hypnotic dance of etiquette that some of these players appear to be doing without thought; the steps taught to them since birth. Having never seen a court meeting before, this is a microcosm of what Ulani envisions they are like, but with far less backhanded compliments and not-so-veiled shade being thrown around. And then one just come hovering in on a speeder as casual as you please. Are there no rules? Oh, but he has the cape and the sword and the stride, so all is right with the natural order. So distracted by Ban's entrance she doesn't even get a chance to softly correct Sorin's mis-granted title towards her.

"It is good to see you again, Your Highness," Ulani smiles in return yet still keeping a respectable distance. It would seem this meeting of the nobles has a very specific purpose that Ulani is not keen to interrupt. But listen and learn she will absolutely do. She cannot help but glance over at the newest arrival; fairly certain she's not met him before. That's now three people she's not been formally introduced to yet: four if you count Chani. Surely that one time on Naboo doesn't count... does it? .... does it? Oh, dear.

When Chani approaches, Ulani's shoulders tense and her cheeks go a bit red; flushed with embarrassment. "Miss Tahn," she is already starting to say, her voice heavy in apology with only two syllables. "About Naboo---" Yet it is the younger woman who addresses them first and Ulani is left momentarily stunned into silence. She snaps out of it when the bottle of wine is offered to her. "I... thank you, Miss Tahn. And I wanted to extend an apology, as well. From myself and the New Republic. Tensions are still high and I understand there are still reservations with the alliance. But assured we will do everything we can to aide Naboo. With your help, of course. Of that I can promise."

Ban Iskender offers the familiar greeting to, "Mistress Tahn," as she was nearest when he stepped to join the others. Although forming a slight pool around his boots as rain drops down armor and cape, Ban's manner and comportment are precise and proper. Aryn is greeted first with a deep bow, "Your Highness." The little child Duchess receives a shorter how, next, "Your Grace." The others alas must be lumped together, "And a fair eve find your excellent company, both those known to me, and those unknown." His green regard passes over each at least briefly, lingering last on Sorin.

Aubrei watches the familiar exchanges and nearly misses Sorin's comment about her battle scar. She blinks and looks down at herself only to realize the humor writ across his face. Her mouth parts and closes before she stares at him and huffs out a breath. Her smile quirks a little before she lifts her fingers to the unattended wounds.

"Yes, hard one battle scar." She quiets again and returns her gaze to Chani as she is gift giving, a pale brow raising as the smile fades some and the young woman turns aside, not yet taking a seat but remaining as the driver of Ser Sorin. The two fireflies dip and grasp at the woven locks atop her head to bury themselves into the mass so that they light up her hair with their greenish gold pulses of light.

"Ser," Chani bows at the hips towards Sorin, and again to the woman accompanying him. "A pleasure to meet you both." Her gaze shifts to Ulani and Bors. "You have nothing to apologize for, Miss Kalgaav. Please, call me Chani." The stuffiness of any kind of honorific placed before her name still feels alien, no matter who it's coming from. Ban's interaction with Avlin is yet another thing to file away for correction later. She, too, should be addressing the young noble by her title and not her name. Especially in the company of others. Chani uses a quick breath to push away the cloying sensation of anxiety and tells herself to be at ease. "Thank you for your kind words, Lord Thul. Your perception on the matter is appreciated."

Avlin stands back from Chani after the tight hug, and she begins speaking quickly, a smile staying plastered as she rambled through her words all tuned to the posh Core World accent, "Lady Aryn got him for me just last week, but told me I was responsible for him. So I have to walk and play with him, and guess what? His name is Leo, and he loves to throw the ball, see? Watch.. Watch--" Gulp. There's Ban. Avlin's words have come to a screeching halt and she regards the tall green Knight with wide eyes when he greeted her. Avlin was about to do as she was taught, curtsy back politely to the Iskender Lord, but she eagerly latches onto his side with a firm hug. "Ack... you are wet with rain, Lord Ban!" Avlin laughs, brushing the water off her arms and stomping in the puddle he made.

"Avlin, go get cleaned up and ready for bed. I will be up soon to see you to it." -- "Yes ma'am.. LEO.. come on, boy! Come on!.." Avlin and Leo take the ramp to the Cophirgan Echo, the spacious and overly large Calamari ship taking up a space in one of the landing berths.

Aryn quietly thanks Lord Thul for his kind words, but yields him (and Ulani) to Chani, leaving the three to burn slightly with red cheeks. It pronounces Aryn's scar over her eye as she finally arrives back to Sorin to listen to his story.

By its end, she has claiming a seat at the arrangement. "I have been to Nar Shaddaa on a few occasion, some on business. It is an unpleasant place. I am sorry for your loss. In your travels, have you encountered many Alderaanians?"

Aryn motions for Ban to come closer, and makes an introduction. "Ser Sorin, I would like you to meet someone. This is Lord Ban of House Iskender," The Green Knight, "Ban, this is Ser Sorin of House Endesea." As they meet, Aryn regards Chani who has come close and offered a bottle of Blossom Wine. "Oh, how wonderful, Chani. I think this occasion would be perfect for such. Who would like a glass?" Aryn was already pouring herself one.

Sorin with Aryn are to be afforded the closeness possible to have a private conversation, nodding to them both and additionally - though he does gesture, momentarily to Chani "I do have one other question yet for thee, Lady Tahn, if you shall allot me this small moment to attend one thing more."

Stepping over and motioning to Kuhlai who approaches with a long case as he addresses Ser Endesea himself, "Ser Sorin - I would wish to provide thee one thing; my sources and my sisters sources had given word of more of our own to come to the fold of late and I had made such that I hope would be a welcome addition to thine arm."

The red fez wearing Valet simply presents the case for Sorin to open and see the chromium plated blade within, with pearled guard and wire-chain wrapped grip.

"Thy family plight is troubling, and I hope this might serve well."

Tucking the bottle of wine safely away into her satchel, Ulani joins the rest of the group over by the chairs but still keeps to the perimeter. Hands clasping each other in front of her, she takes in the Sorin's story with the gravity of a dense planet core. Her downcast eyes stare through the floor, her own thoughts wandering to another place entirely. "I am sorry for your loss," she does manage to say from somewhere nearby, taking a step to the side to make room for Kuhlai's approach. "You do your father a great honour."

"Hm. I daresay your Excellency has mastered the Chandrilan curtsey," Ban quips with a faint smile to Avlin as the child decides to hug him. The girl's family was murdered, she gets a pass. As he is called to Aryn's side and introduced to "Ser Sorin," the young officer adds, "Well met, sir. Mine own family had governed the survivors colony on Cophrigin Four, in the Ash Worlds. Having only just heard of the exploits of yourself and your sire, I must inquire whether you had perchance brought any of our people into my family's care, in the past?"

All the wine given away, Chani sets the empty bag down on the table centered in the seating arrangement. The young Naboo native does not take a seat, but instead lurks between two pieces of the furniture with her over-sized robe sleeves meshing into one another and creating a wall of feyd-cloth that is impossible to find the seam for. The topic of the new arrival becomes the focus once more and she lets it play main stage without further interruption from her. The House Aryn mentions is not one she has heard before in the company of Alderaanians, but as a people, their society goes back millennia. It would not surprise Chani to learn that there are a great deal of Houses that she has never heard of and many more lost to time besides.

"What is your question, Lord Thul?" She speaks it quiet so that neither Aryn nor Sorin are interrupted.

Aubrei may be feeling out of place but she is glad to still be attending, finally picking a place to stand out of the line of conversation as she watches the groupings. Lords. Ladies. Princesses. Sers. Its all surreal and her expression starts to morph from inward thoughts that had stolen her smile to that of wonder.

She glances then to Chani, having missed a bit of what she said but smiling all the same. "And you, from Naboo yes? Only been once but hard to forget. Such thoughtful gifts, the Winter Fete is my favorite...was..is." She seems to stumble over that a second before the smile reasserts itself.

"I will pass on the drink your highness, but thank you. I really should not if I might fly yet this evening." She glances to Sorin. "If he is in capable hands I might return." There is a sort of lamenting tone as emerald eyes continue to sweep over the assembled while the tale is being shared. The blossom wine is given a look.

As Aryn claims her seat, Sorin looks to Aubrei. He's mid-gesture, indicating the seats available nearest them when he notes the glow eminating from within gold locks. There's a slight lean-in, at just the moment when one of Aubrei's two little glowy companions flits out, for a couple of seconds, as if testing the air, and then nestles back from where it had come. "You have friends," he says, a small smile formed, clearly his first introduction to her illuminated compansions.

He takes a seat, attention back to Aryn. "Thank you," he replies, head dipped, at her condolences. "We have, Princess. Perhaps /many/ is a comparative term, but we have found, over the years, individuals, and families, and enclaves. People disconnected from the outside world. People held in servitude. The most were behind Remnant lines, when the Remnants were strong." He nods, hands on his lap. "We found the most, I'd say, the first decade of our travels. Beginning perhaps twenty years ago. I was young, I did not fully participate at first except as his son, and armsman in training."

Aryn's introduction to Ban has Sorin rising, and turning. He offers a bow, arm again held stiffly at midsection. "My Lord, it is an honor. And I'm afraid I cannot say, from memory. It is possible, and my Lord Father kept meticulous records. I shall consult them, I dare say I hope we did."

Kuhali's approach brings Sorin around yet further, and he seems speechless for a long moment as the case is presented. A long look is shared with Kuhlai, and then the man's Lord, Bors, and the case accepted. Opening it, the sword within is revealed. A very fine blade, and Sorin looks to Bors with gratitude evident. "You honor me, my Lord. I cannot thank you enough for this consideration, and the respect give my father's work."

Ban Iskender acknowledges the correctness of Sorin's etiquette with a lingering dip if his head. "I say with plain truth sir, that wheresoever yourself and your sire saw our people placed, that the honor in our meeting is mine." As Bors delivers a rich gift, which Sorin is occupied a moment in graciously accepting, Ban takes several seconds to lean nearer and share a discreet word with Aryn, before returning to a properly upright posture.

"Use it well and it shall be a gift well received, Ser Endesea." Bors bows low again, doing his best to divide his attention, such as throwing a little wave to Aubrei while he attends his matters MOST SERIOUS. But he sees her there! But there is such a whirlwind of things to be attended!

To Chani the Lord Thul offers a bow at the waist, dipping low again, "As I spoke on Naboo - for the circumstance most grievous faced by thy queen and so Lady Tahn herself; while distracted by coarse pragmatism of Ser Kun; I would know the answer to question posed. In the matter my arm is offered, my blade is held aloft to be shunned or claimed. While matters are attended, I would be thine arm and thus the queen's; should you find it a worthwhile endeavor for an old Lord and older pilot to champion."

Lanky frame straightening out and hands tucking behind his back for one hand to clasp the other Bors becomes a statue of courtly posture while maintaining eye-contact with the much younger woman.

Perhaps he is aware that he is, quite literally, the Old Man here. Whether his sandy hair was salting at the temples or no.

Aryn takes a moment to listen to Ban, and replies quietly with a curt nod, her eyes following him a moment, before returning to the gathering of guests. "Blossom wine is a fine label, Miss Aubrei. Should you find yourself on Naboo again, I recommend it. If its taste is not to your liking, then I recommend the Lake wine, an excellent label, too."

With wine poured, Aryn is finally able to relax back, and her attention returns to watch the networking of friendly faces. Her thoughts go to House Endesea, and the words shared by Ser Sorin about his travels, and the pockets of Alderaanians left unaccounted for in places throughout the galaxy. She mulls this over, sipping the wine.

She does not speak more on the topic of Sorin's father, their quest, or his reason for being here. Sorin is experiencing the gracious nature of Lord Thul; a remarkable sword catches the glare of the hangar lights and Aryn allows a smile.

Chani is able to afford Aubrei a quick nod in regards to the question concerning her home world, but the aside with Lord Thul is taking over her ability to focus on anything. "Lord Thul, what's worthwhile to me is that you wish to help my people. Help restore our faith in the New Republic by doing as you've always done in your service to them. I believe Her Majesty will recognize the honor in your actions and see it as an example of the ideals we've always believed the New Republic to represent. I'd be in the wrong if I allowed you to take any oath that ever called to question your service with them, and I also believe Her Majesty would find it unforgivable. Champion the New Republic's purpose on Naboo and you'll find our goals are the same, I think."

She casts a glance to Aubrei again, indicative that she has not forgotten the Mandalorian woman and that there are words they can exchange once her present business is concluded.

The wave from one of the lords...Bors she thinks? Lord Thul causes Aubrei to straighten briefly and lift her gloved hand to wiggle her fingers back at him - eyes still wide. /SMILE/. She smiles. Her hand once wiggling its fingers in her direction lifts to rub at the scratches on her face. They are beginning to itch.

Rub. Rub. Rub.

You have friends is said to her and she turns her head to find Sorin right there. "Oh yes..Jinn and Lew. I..." how does she explain this to a gaggle of nobles? She can't. Her mouth closes and she merely smiles before it grows once more as Aryn addresses her. "I will take that into consideration. I do not much care for sugary drinks and wine tends to be. It does smell lovely and it looks like its meant for more developed palate than my own."

It does not seem as if the lack of direct conversation over time is bothering her, she's merely taken with watching everything else unfold. There might be unuttered excitement on her part.

Ulani considers taking some of the offered wine then does a totally crazy thing and does so. She walks over to Aubrei. "Forgive me," she says gently to the woman and clears her throat. "I could not help but notice your armour. Sorry to say the last time I saw such armour, it wasn't in such friendly circumstances." A nasty bit of business about a bounty or some such. Certainly not the kind of talk for noble presence. "I am ignorant of the Mandalorian culture, but those who took me were, at the very least, kind. A young woman in particular."

Her brows furrow a bit and she sips the wine to add a bit more awkwardness to the meeting. "So... I mean. My experience with Mandalorians has been interesting, to say the least, but what I have seen was honourable." If not completely frightening. "Thank you for seeing Ser Sorin back to his people." Blue eyes look to the nobles gathered, speaking quietly. "They've been too scattered too long."

"I most certain shall use it to the best of my abilities," comes Sorin's reply to Bors, and the blade is briefly removed from its box, its weight measured in a hand that seems comfortable with the tool. He nods, "Finely balanced. This is a blade made by a true craftsman, my Lord. It shall have an honored place." The sword is replaced, and the box closed.

Ban's comment is met with an appreciative smile and a deep nod of the head. "Honor met in complement," he says, voice even, as if reciting a maxim, "is amplified in both directions. You honor my family's commitment to our people, and on behalf of my father, may his peace last forever, and my mother, still in mourning, I thank you for the kindness."

Aryn's attention to Aubrei draws Sorin's attention back to the Mandalorian scout. He recognized the passing of notice of Jinn and Lew, yet still looks to them once again, illuminating within their places of hiding. Ulani's joining, and her words to Aubrei, elicit a response from the man. "Her assistance was unimaginably timely, and she is a warrior herself. I, for one, am thankful that she has been so willing to assist, at such short notice, and cost to her own time."

The armored woman is ready to remain the wallflower she is, offering the brief interactions as unconsciously her finger rubs and worries at the small lines upon her face. Is it beginning to get warm? Maybe. She can not tell with the glove on but presently she is so engrossed she would miss any warning signs to the change in the tiny marks.

Ulani comes into her line of sight and Aubrei focuses, her hand falling down to quickly tuck it against her side and slightly behind. "Oh yes..." she glances down. "It belonged to my father's wife...he gave it to me. It is a long story but there are many of those here tonight. I am glad to know they treated you kindly, there is a way of life that is for certain but there are those who can adopt extremes."

It is hard to speak of such things among nobility but her eyes dart back to Ulani after a quick survey as she lowers her voice as well, giving a nod. "I am glad to help, Ser Sorin, I have to admit...tales of Knights..ladies, princes and princesses have always held my attention. And here I am." She clears her throat, shifting on her feet before she nods. "I can see it, I feel like I stepped into a family reunion. You are Ulani are you not? I was trying to follow along with the names. Are you ..Alderaanian?"

Sorin earns a smile as she shakes her head. "Simple task really and my pleasure. I just do not know if you need me to stay but I think I should head back to the ship...have it serviced and fueled just in case."

She pauses to smile at the group, hesitating in exactly what to say. "Lords, ladies, gentlefolk...your highness..." oh boy here it goes as she dips into a low bow, upsetting the little glowing figures in her hair before she rises back up after her hand comes to rest over her head. "It has been a pleasure and thank you for your company but do excuse me." She nods to Sorin. "Ser Sorin, if you have need of me otherwise by the end of the day tomorrow I will take my leave." She's tries.

"Nice to meet you," she says to Ulani before starting to slip towards the exit, lifting her helmet up to finally tug down over her head before she step out into the dark.

To Aubrei's question, Ulani laughs a little and shake her head. "Oh! No no. I'm not Alderaanian. I'm... I'm..." The woman stares blankly, realizing she actually doesn't have an answer to that question. 'Chandrilan' didn't seem to fit. And 'Kuati' was definitely out by this point. "A citizen of the New Republic." A faint but unsure smile follows that. It would have to do. The wine is quickly drank and the glass set down to wait for the official business and discussions to conclude.

"As thee wish, Lady Tahn; but know I offer as an Alderaanian, not as a soldier of the New Republic." there are -distinct- differences. "Thy wishes shall be honored but offers shall remain if ever there is a change of heart and there will be no begrudging that I assure you." a genuine smile offered up to Chani, full wattage. Could run a hydroponics with that shine.

He steps back to look upon the bottle again, head tilting and smiling broadly at the selection, a look given to Kuhlai who offers a broad smile and a nod.

Bors's head tilts one way, brow lifting and Kuhlai's the other with a flick of both of his leading to the Lord's expression to lengthen to full contemplation before a single shoulder shrug, eyes closing and a rapid sort of shifty bounce of his head with lips pursed. What could be said here? What mysterious messages passed between when Kuhlai's hands come up as if to suggest a shrug before one tilts and waves as if carried on the sea and then a single finger is pointed towards the bottle, then three held out.

"Definitely." "Very good sir." "That's why you're my favorite." "Second favorite, sir?" a tilt of the head pointing his fez at Ulani, met with a 'shhhhh' face.

"Be well, Miss Aubrei. Walk in the Mother's grace." Aryn offers, issuing a silent wave to the Mandalorian. Her gaze follows the woman a moment, mentally noting the cut on her cheek and trying to decide if she should inquire later about it. She lifts her wine for another drink. A small voice cuts over the crowd though, and Aryn inclines her head to hear it. Avlin, "Lady Aryn... I am ready!" THe sound comes from the ship, and Aryn rises, touching her mouth with the back of her hand. "Everyone, you must excuse me. I will be back shortly.." And Aryn steps off to tuck the haunted child into bed within the safety of Lord Ban's ship. "Coming, Avlin.."

"Thank you, Lord Thul." Chani bows with hands placed on the tops of her trousers and body angling forward at the hips. Their discussion is concluded to what is hopefully a satisfactory degree. "I look forward to seeing you on Naboo again." She turns and bows to the larger group. "Shiraya bless you all. I must take my leave. Your Highness, my Lords, Ser, Mister D'man. Convey a good night to Her Grace, as well, if you please. I must return to Naboo. I hope the Winter Fete brings happiness for each of you." One final bow is provided before Chani begins to venture forth from the hangar with the same unrushed gait that carried her there. With the rain pouring down outside, Chani shakes her hands free of their hiding spots in her feyd-cloth sleeves and draws the hood up and over her head. It won't protect her completely, but that fact doesn't seem to bother her. Arms wrapping around her after, she departs into the night and the steady, cascading patter of preciptation falling from the sky.

Aubrei's rise to leave, followed by that deep bow draws an appreciative side-long glance, Sorin's expression a subtle smile that plays out for a moment before she turns to him with her question. Question as statement. "I'll rejoin you shortly, I'd like to, at the very least, ensure your ship is fully serviced and fueled, and that you don't suffer for lack of a good meal."

Aryn's preparation to leave as well, in the process of wrangling the young Duchess, has Sorin interjecting before she can draw too far away. "Your highness, if I may, I would greatly appreciate an opportunity to discuss the particulars in private, at your convenience. Please just alert me as to when that is, and I assure you I will promply report. And thank you for your hospitality." He rises, and that hazel gaze shifts among those still present. "And the same to each here. This is a place that feels like home. I feel... as if I have arrived home. And I know my father would feel this as well."

With that, a deep bow is proffered the Princess, and Sorin retreats shortly behind Aubrei. Until tomorrow.

Business seems to be concluded and Ulani offers respectful bows to those present and those taking their leave. "An honour to see you all. Ser Sorin, good luck and I hope to see you again, as well." Bors and Kuhlai are taking their leave and Ulani is quick to join them, her arm curling around Bors' arm as they go. The rain is coming down in sheets by now and Ulani prepares for a great soakening.