Log:Winery Opening

Grand Re-Opening of the Hidden Grotto Winery

OOC Date: July 24, 2016
Location: Hidden Grotto Winery Naboo
Participants: Ax, Rheisa Dirleel, Wodi Corcer, Qadira Suuryet, Kael Greystorm, Narsai Ordo, Waywards, Queen of Naboo

The Hidden Grotto Winery has been here for over a century, and until a couple years ago had been in the hands of a single family through several generations. Unfortunately, a shuttle accident claimed the lives of several of the family members and the winery went into forclosure. Recently though, all the back taxes and loans were paid off and for the first time in the existence of the winery, it had fallen into the hands of an off-worlder.

Axilon Bjin'ax, the head of the Waywards guild on Nar Shaddaa, arranged the purchase, and kept on much of the previous staff of the winery. The last vintage of wine had been bottled and chilled, brought out for the welcoming party. Several ships were landed here and a few more were expected before the festivities got truly underway. Business owners and locals of Naboo were already in attendance to gauge the new owners.

Ax was dressed in his finest attire, not traditional Naboo style, but it was what he had in his wardrobe. Perched upon his shoulder was his pet tailring, Adder. A pair of LE-VO droids were acting as security with Kael as their 'commanding officer' for the occasion. The Echani was greeting each newcomer personally, shaking hands and making introductions to those that arrived.

While Ax might have dipped into his wardrobe, Kadi went shopping. She's actually dressed in something closely resembling Naboo style. She's unarmed, which might not be a surprise, but she's also degreased and cleaned up. Reasonably nicely at that. She too is greeting guests with her own engaging smile and busy making introductions where needed. As she nears Ax, she pauses to regard her husband for a moment, and then she says, "Ax, Rhani is back in the kitchen helping out for a bit. She'll come out sometime later." But the scout is around. Somewhere in the background, it seems.

"Check this out," Wodi remarks to himself, disembarking from Some Girl's Name. A look around at those in attendance and Ax gets a nod from the fellow smuggler, before Wodi begins wandering around, probably on a hunt for a mark or two.

Decked out in formal Twi'lek wear, Lorana is slowly maaking the rounds, wishing her sister were here to help charm everyone. There's handshakes, curtseys, lekku-waving as she tries to make a good impression.

Kael Greystorm is roaming the area slightly decked out in his formal... Armor. Having decided to pull security Kael watches everybody as they enter and exit and tries not to look too intimidating but is definately not being overly socialable for the moment.

A small, nondescript shuttle arrives - one of many. Its passengers are few and don't take long to disembark. A couple of sleeky dressed locals exit first, making a rather artistic statement with ornate hairstyles and curious jewelry. They represent the very diverse and eclectic artist guild which has, for millenia, gifted Naboo with a reknown art culture. Behind them come a pair that's slower to descend the ramp. One is an elder of sorts, bent with old age and dressed in faded but once extravagantly embroidered robes. His shaky steps are echoed by the figure who envelopes his arm within her own. It's a Togruta, one who has only just begun to sink her talons into the local art scene, but who ought be quite familiar to the new owners of this old winery.

"Welcome to Hidden Grotto," Ax can be heard saying repeatedly. "And this is my wife, Qadira," he says, introducing her. Adder was being a bit lethargic, likely having had a full meal, a good bit of exercise, and maybe a bit of the wine the facility manufactures.

Ax nods to his wife, smiling. "Good to hear she made it. That girl spends more time in space than I do, I swear. And, might I say, you look amazing," he says to her. A nod is given to Wodi and Kael, the latter being the only person here in armor and openly armed.

As the new shuttle arrives, Ax watches those disembark, greeting and introducing people. Upon spotting Rheisa, Ax smiles. "I'm so glad you could attend," he tells her. "Please, introduce me to your friend here."

"And so of course I agreed to marry her. Who could refuse the hand of a princess, you know?" Wodi asks of a gentleman standing between him and a bottle of that chilled wine. His eyes dart over the man's shoulder and he gives him a clap on the arm, saying, "But that's neither hear nor there, you know?" He slips past the guy and waits to be served a glass, dark eyes moving around those that are gathered.

The younger connoisseurs of art melt quickly into the assembly, sharp eyes turned in all directions to examine the composition of the space, the architecture, hunting for any little details that the new owners may have altered. The two - one old, one new - that follow along behind are too slow to be so aloof.

"Engelando," Rheisa dips her face aside to murmurs quietly into her companion's gnarly, hairy caverns that once may have passed for ears while her eyes lock with Ax's greeting. The old man looks up, forced to trust his feet to do as they should down there while he turns his puckered smile to face their hosts as per Rheisa's direction. "Ah!" He sighs and offers a stiff bow of his head. "It is a pleasure, to see what was dormant find life anew. A-Alexander Engelando...a relic of our Theed's history perhaps too far gone for such renewal." He chuckle-wheezes with a mirthful squint at his own joke as Rheisa offers a warm smile and bow of her own. "Many thanks, for news put out. I was to be here any way, for business. Happy to see friends from so far away."

Kadi smiles at Ax, even managing a passable curtsey. Well, since you can't see her legs at all, it passes. "Thank you," she says. "You look pretty spiffy yourself." She chuckles a bit at the comment about Rhani and nods her head. "She does, but she's somewhere about." Her expression brightens further as she spies Rheisa, though she doesn't move to hug, afraid she might break the poor elderly fellow. "Rheisa, good to see you again. Mr. Engelando, a pleasure." Her voice is warm as she does take a step in to offer a hand to the elderly fellow, maybe more so he doesn't fall over than anything.

Servers walk around with trays loaded with chilled blossom wine, the semi-sweet, yellow wine smooth on the palate with a delightful fragrance. As a server goes by, Ax grabs a glass for both Rheisa and Engelando, handing the glasses over. "Welcome to our newest endeavor here, let us hope that we can keep this place going." He then grabs a pair of glasses, one for himself and one for Kadi. Adder just yawns, curling around Ax's shoulders to make sure he doesn't slide off while being lazy.

Amongst the arriving ships is a sleek silver vessel, as much a work of art as it was a functioning piece of technology. When it lands, a few Naboo royal guard disembark, followed by a trio of handmaidens, a Gungan senator, and the Queen of Naboo herself. A young woman of fourteen, known for being wise beyond her years.

"Oh boy," Ax mutters, downing the contents of his glass before setting the empty upon the server's tray before he approaches. "Welcome to the Hidden Grotto Winery," he says to the newcomers, bowing towards local royalty. "I am Axilon Bj'inax, this is my wife Qadira. You grace us with your presence. Please, if there's anything we can do to make your visit more comfortable, please let us know."

Wodi Corcer snatches up his freshly-poured glass of wine and turns on his heel, moving with unparalleled swagger to the group of Waywards that have gathered. He comes to a stop next to Kadi and looks over to the old guy and the Togruta. An upnod is offered to the latter.

Old Alexander does take that offered hand, but not for stability's sake. Instead, he gives it a granfatherly pat before planting a little, leathery kiss upon it. "It is all mine, my dear 'Qadira'. I do not get out often for these sort of affairs any more. This is quite a treat." Another nod about to Ax, then he releases this pretty wife's hand and resumes a lazy shuffle alongside his own 'date'. "Now, let us taste this fine vintage..."

Rheisa masks a chuckle deep within her chest. In its place, a quiet thrum of contentment. "Is verrry pretty here," she commends in parting word before turning her head to gaze upon the finery parading forth from that new arrival. Her own glass goes unsampled for now. Wodi's sidling on up earns a silent, sideways look from the vigilant Togruta. After a deep moment of consideration, she mimics the gesture beneath a clattering of teeth and beads.

Kadi smiles at Alexander, stepping back once he relases her hand. "Rheisa, we shall have to chat - but - " Right, she's got guests to greet. She still has her glass in hand, having not taken a drink as Ax moves along with her to the new arrivals. Her gaze does catch Wodi's arrival, but she's sidetracked by - well - real royalty. She sinks into a curtsey when Ax bows, her eyes going a bit wide with startlement showing easily. "Welcome," she echoes, before she adds, "And thank you for gracing us with your presence." Uhm, well, she's not at all sure what to say, this is totally out of her realm of existence. No matter what Strand says!

Kael Greystorm is still wandering amongst the crowd being that security guy. He keeps semi close to Ax and Kadi maybe he expects one of those two to get into trouble although he does have one droid keep fairly close to Wodi and looks over and keeps an eye on him as well.

The Queen herself was exceptionally reserved, and polite, responding to the greeting with a bow of her head. "I thank you for your hospitality," she says as one of her handmaidens brings her a glass of the wine.

The Gungan senator, however, was not quite so serene. "This-a very nice setup," he says, taking a glass of wine from a server and draining it. "Meesa look about." And with a clap on Ax's shoulder, the gungan is off.

Adder still remains on Ax's shoulder as the Echani, raises from his bow, and works to retain his balance from the slap on his shoulder. "Please, look about, this is likely the only time this facility will be completely open to the public," he says. Granted, should Naboo royal security or a member of government come by, he likely wasn't going to deny them access. He looks to Kadi, smiling to his wife then towards Kael. "This is my security chief, Kael Greystorm," he says, making introductions. That," he says, pointing towards Wodi. "Is Wodi Corcer, a loudmouth blowhard, but a damned fine pilot who is usually pretty good at getting cargo from one place to another, most of the time even in one piece." Then he motions towards other members of the guild who were about, trying to make the guests feel more comfortable with the off-worlders who've taken over the Naboo business.

The artists are among those stopping to stare, then respectfully stoop to the arrival of their queen and her entourage. There's just one that's a little slow to imitate the gesture, and it ain't the old guy. Rheisa stands there for a moment, mesmorized by the seemingly choreographed drop in stature that surrounding bodies take. Not to mention the hushed direction of conversation. She can feel it, that which her eyes do not see, and it does not take too long for her budding sense of social protocol to take notes and fall in line. Clearly, these are peoples of great rank...pack leaders.

While the old man helps himself to a crate for a seat, Rheisa lowers her head and shoulders. The beads slip and tumble, twirling in the air on webs of silk from her montrals. "Who is?" she whispers softly to either Engelando or Wodi...any answer would do.

Kadi blinks at the Gungan, but smiles slightly, her gaze following as he takes off to explore the place. Her attention comes back to the Queen as she listens to Ax's words. "I hope we can add our own bit to the wonderful lifestyle and culture here. Everyone has been quite welcoming and helpful." Well, mostly. Kadi certainly hasn't run into too much trouble, as yet.

"You like it around here?" Wodi asks of the Gungan, raising his glass to his lips and taking a slow sip from it. "Naboo, I mean. Never been here myself until now. Pretty green." Wodi squints, looking off into the distance.

"Meesa not like the cold much," is all the Gungan says to Wodi between gulps of the wine, already on his second glass of the sweet concoction, apparently approving of the beverage. Of course, the wine that was currently available was bottled more well before the Waywards purchased the winery. Then, he and one of the Royal security officers headed off to explore.

Ax smiles to the queen, "You are welcome to visit at any time." The queen smiles, then looks to Kadi. "I have been here once before, prior to being elected as Queen," she says. "My mother was a friend of the previous owners, their loss was hard upon my family. I am just glad that family's work lives on. On behalf of the people of Naboo, we welcome you."

Ax just smiles, taking a deep breath and snagging a fresh glass of wine from a passing server. He then looks towards other guests for a moment before excusing himself from the queen and her retinue so that he may continue to greet the others. Likely, this was the busiest this place had been in ages.

Kadi's expression shows a little sympathy. "That must be difficult for you," she says softly. "I am sorry for your loss." She pauses, a little awkward, but Ax's departure is a great excuse to change the subject. "I am glad that we have an opportunity to keep such a great establishment and years of work continuing forward. I hope we do it the justice it deserves and we intend to." Not a politician, not a diplomat, but she is trying. At this rate, the poor Queen probably feels she's older than Kadi.

Kael Greystorm sends one of the droids over to keep watch over Kadi and Ax as he makes his way over to Wodi after the shootout in the hangar he's been keeping a bit of a closer eye on that smug... Upstanding citizen. "Keeping out of trouble Wodi?"

While Alexander Engelando lip smacks over his wine sampling and makes all the appropriate, complimentary sounds of appreciation, Rheisa continues to hold hers nervously by the stem. She gradually relaxes from her submissive posture, seeing that these important people are plenty occupied with Ax and Kadi. A look down to her companion finds him still savoring the complexity of flavors that blossom wine has to offer.

A look around scouts sneakily for food. Her nostrils twitch, already afire with the scent of what's held in hand after a most regrettable mimicry had her sniffing the contents upon reception. Everyone's enjoying theirs. Everyone's tasting. Would it be rude to stash this aside, or refill her new old friend's cup with? Maybe she ought to at least take the tiniest of tastes...so she does, bringing the lip of the glass to tremble against her own before poking at it with her tongue.

"Don't know how," Wodi responds to Kael, tipping his glass back again and taking another sip. He smacks his lips a bit, looking over to the bounty hunter. "You ever not wearing that?" he asks, gesturing to the armor. His eyes fall on Rheisa again, squinting as she tests out the glass.

Once everyone is landed, Ax taps his wedding ring against his glass, the tinking sound gathering attention. "Now that everyone is here, please, let's move towards the vineyards. There are more refreshments there, including a good bit of local mountain cuisine." He pauses a moment, "Any late comers will be directed there as well." He then begins walking towards the vineyards, away from the crowded landing pad. Many people have already made there way, having taken the rare opportunity to explore.

Once again, Rheisa and Engelando bring up the rear, despite beginning near the front of the group. The chattering wall of passing guests offers good cover for Rheisa's facial muscles to finally twist and pucker after her tasting of the fermented flower juice. Bitter. So bitter. There's a little sweet, lingering on her tongue, but most tastebuds are up in arms, screaming to her brain to cease this queer, medicinal poisoning before it takes its toll. And Alexander? He's no help, catching sight of her expression and responding with an amused hoot.

Rheisa looks away, seeking sensory distraction in the surrounding landscape. There's plenty, beginning with the tickling grasses between her toes as she strays just off the side of the road to treat her bare feet.

Standing near the tables where refreshments have b een set out, Rhani is speaking to one of the staff members. She nods once, then smiles and shakes the other woman's hand. Seems all is in readiness, then. Turning, she leaves the tables to take stock of the drinks. Can't be too careful with this crowd, right? Gotta have a good variety from all over.

Kadi accompanies the royal Naboo party, since she's rather unsure what one does when a Queen is in attendance. And Ax deserted her to go deal with the other guests, so she's just - well, doing the best she can. A breath, and then she does gesture to the lay out, a smile on her face. "Please do make yourself at home, your majesty. I hope you will enjoy your visit."

Once in the area of the vineyards, there are tables set up with various foods and more glasses of wine. There is also an open bar, offering more than just the blossom wine. Servers, human, droid, and other species are present, offering the locally catered food to those who are interested.

"Again, welcome," Ax says to those arriving, including the Queen of Naboo herself. The Gungan senator was already making himself at home at the food table. Others were moving that way as well.

"Please, everyone make yourselves at home," Ax says. "There are tours of the distillery and of the fields. The winery's botanist is on hand to answer questions concerning the flora used."

Kael Greystorm makes his way around looking everything over before he heads back over towards Ax, "Hey boss we gonna make whiskey here too?" Then back to watching Wodi...

"Mmm," the old artist rubs at his beard, listening to Ax's introduction. "I should very much like to know more about these blossoms..." His graying eyes turn to pinpoint this alleged botanist, wherever he or she may be. "Though I suspect such information is not among your concerns." A knowing smile twinkles sideways at Rheisa.

"Go," Rheisa reassures with a gentle pat to his arm and motions to the tables of culinary offerings. "I will be just here." Or there. Or whever her flighty attention span takes her next in this unexplored place. And so it is that the two split, Alexander hobbling away in search of the botanist and Miss Dirleel limping lightly along to join the Gungan in study of foodstuffs. She trades a plate for her wine glass, hoping the maneuver was as slick as she thought it to be and begins to fill it with some meaty selections. On the bone, off the bone, and an egg. A gentle shake of the shelled delicacy tells that there's still some gooey goodness left inside.

"And likely Socorran Raava as well, if I can get the berries to grow in the greenhouses," Ax says with a grin to Kael. "Of course, priority is going to be the wine, but I'd like to try our hand at other drinks as well."

The queen just gives a polite smile to Kadi, in regards to her family connections to the previous owners, and then engages with a bit of smalltalk, though her handmaidens and the security entourage keep very close.

Ax looks to the aging artist. "That's definitely a question you'll have to take up with the winery's botanist. I'm a pilot and an entrepeneur, and I'm learning, but there's still so much I do not know about what goes into the wine. It's one reason we kept as much of the previous staff as would stay onboard." He then points out the botanist, an Ithorian female who'd been working for the winery for the better part of two decades.

All things considered, Kadi is perfectly happy to let the Queen wander as she wishes, and even to fall back as she does whatever it is that Queens do. Musn't monopolize her, right? Or something. She finally takes a sip of her wine, standing where she is, and then heads over towards Rhani. Maybe she can slink over to talk to her friend for a few moments and nobody will notice?

Rhani Aeternum watches the guests split up to go to their various preferences. Her gaze darts here, then there before turning back to the drinks on hand. Taking a glass of wine from a tray, she fades away from duty toward relaxed enjoyment of the evening. Claiming a sip from the glass, she lets the flavor roll around on her tongue before swallowing. Spotting Kadi slinking over, she offers her friend a grin and fades a bit out of the traffic patterns to gain a modicum of privacy for a quiet word. Or three.

Rheisa's well on her way to stuffing her face. After just a few bites though, she hears the Gungan senator step further away in pursuit of another snack. Glancing curiously back at the Queen and her assembly, she shadows the Senator on towards the next table and hastily swallows what she's sucked out of the egg. "'Lo," She greets softly, coming around out of his blind spot to look eye-to-googly-eye. "Rheeesa Dirleel," she taps at her exposed sternum with a fingernail before pointing it at him. "You? You come with she, yes?" A point to the royal party.

Coming from the distillery is a quartet of musicians, each carrying stringed instruments and setting up at a small stage that was erected for the occassion. Soon, they begin playing soft music, not meant to overpower conversations but to add a bit of ambience to the serene surroundings.

Adder seems to have had enough of the crowd and after a brief stretch hops off Ax's shoulder and takes flight, finding a perch in a nearby tree.

Ax makes his way over to Kadi and Rhani. "Hey ladies," he says in a soft tone. "It's a bit stuffy, but this kind of thing is good for building relations with the locals. It's how we did so well on Nar Shaddaa."

The Gungan senator looks to Rheisa. "Meesa Garnd Rish, and meesa fly here with the Queen," he says to the Togruta. He continues to stuff his face, determined to sampling everything there was to offer.

Kadi gives Ax a half bemused look. "It's okay - I just don't know what to say to a Queen," she says. And then to Rhani. "Thanks for helping out, Rhani. And I'm glad you made it." As the music starts, she looks that way briefly, listening and then shes nods. "I think I heard that song on the cortex earlier today when I was studying Naboo parties," she admits. Yes, she really is trying.

Rhani Aeternum nods a smile to Ax and Kadi in turn, "No problem. I am glad that her Majesty decided to come. I hope that she likes what she sees." Her attention flashes to the refreshments table once more, then back to their guests. Her eyes narrow just a little at something she sees or heard, though the look eases a bit as the musicians enter. Tilting her head slightly, her smile warms, "Hey, they are pretty good." Lowering her voice, she half nods toward Rheisa though the gesture is ever so slight, "I'm glad I asked Peni to rake the grass."

"Garnd Rrrish," Rheisa echoes around a mouthful of riblet. She neatly splits the end of the bone between teeth and slurps the insides. "The queen - she is leader for...city? Much land?" Gnaw gnaw gnaw.

"I can understand," Ax says to Kadi. "Not only is she royalty, but she's a kid. That makes it even more difficult to figure out what to say. Do you like jelly beans didn't really seem appropriate," he says with a smile, keeping his voice down so he's not overheard.

The queen and her retinue move about, socializing generally with the more established citizens who showed up. The Gungan senator gives a bit of a chuckle, crumbs tumbling from his mouth as he speaks. "The planet. Queeny is elected leader of Naboo and its moons."

Rheisa's eyes grow to the size of small moons. How it is possible for one person to govern an entire planetary body - a child of the sky, mother to every crawling creature and fluttering leaf - she will never comprehend. But she does recognize it as a great power, and so it is that such a person is deserving a a magnitude of respect. "That is too many people to know well," she ponders aloud, keeping in the close company of this fellow foodie. "Be very hard, I think." Hell, she has her own hands full during the course of one evening watching three squabbling children. What if that were multiplied infinitely over? She mulls it over around a bite of roast.

"I didn't think of that," Kadi says, sounding half serious. "I wonder what she does like?" she asks, "Or if she ever gets to be a kid?" She shrugs a bit, and then sighs. "I don't understand some customs, but I guess I don't have to, really. At least not for now, but I will learn. That definitely seems like a good idea. I like it here, it's beautiful." And the air is clear and fresh, and breatheable. And the number of Hutts is ... countable on one hand? Maybe.

Rhani Aeternum nods to a serving person, silently suggesting; via movement of her eyes and the direction of her glance, that the server take a tray of delicatly spiced meats with melted cheeses from far away places to Rheisa and the Gungun person after offering some to the queen. She even smiles encouragement to the waitperson. Looking back to Kadi, she tilts her head a bit toward Kadi, her expression turning speculative, "I... hope so? It would be a shame to never be a kid while you are one. I guess." Inhaling deeply, which she seems to be doing a fair bit in the clean, clear air, she lets her gaze float over the area, then broaden to a more encompassing glance, "Yeah, I do too. It really is a pretty planet. And the people seem nice." As opposed to the Hutts she has come into contact with.

The Gungan chuckles. "Meesa can only imagine," is all he says to Rheisa before picking up another bit of food to sample.

Ax looks to Kadi, "Yeah, it's not a job I'd want. I can barely hold the Waywards together sometimes," he says. At Rhani's comments, he chuckles. "Yeah, this place is definitely a good bit different than Nar Shaddaa. Business is better there, by far, but one needs a break from that atmosphere from time to time. Adder loves it here too."

The queen and her handmaidens venture off, a security escort behind them, to take the tour of the distillery itself. The Botanist is entertaining a multitude of questions about the various flowers used in the making of Blossom wine, as well as the few that only grow in a nearby cave with an opening to the sky, the climate being unique and a certain species of floral plant having grown there.

The elderly artist is having the day of his life, enraptured by the Ithorian botanist and his...third glass of wine.

Rheisa is nearing her limit for food stuffing. Her smooth, once-flat belly is very swiftly distending into a neat little globe above the layers of her sash and pants. She's an efficient eater, not taking much time to pick and nibble like the more refined guests. The approaching tray of spiced meats and cheeses though cannot go ignored. Whining softly with a glance to something that'd caught her eye at the table's end and this tray and its very smiley bearer, the Togruta opts for politeness and takes her final few bites from what the server offers. "Thank!" she chirps brightly. Cheese is not something oft consumed by her people, but it can be done. She indulges appropriately, chewing slower than usual to savor the flavor.

Wodi Corcer. Dread of fathers everywhere. The smuggler wanders into the area, his right hand peaking out from behind his cape as it grips his belt buckle. What's he been doing? Who knows? Probably some nefarious or cool.

Kadi grins at Rhani. "Good idea," she says softly. That said, she then takes another sip of her wine. "I like this," she says. "It's nice that we will make it, though I suppose we will have to sell some, right?" she teases. A glance to the droid keeping watch on them. Like she's going to get into any trouble? She's even dressed like she belongs on this planet! Not a chance. Well, not unless she falls over and starts a domino effect or something. "And Adder has good taste."

Kael Greystorm is still stalking Wodi to ensure that he's not doing anything untoward and father's have nothing to fear... Kael knows what Wodi's been up to and just isn't happy with it... And spending hours to primp hair isn't nefarious or cool...

Rhani Aeternum slides a grin over toward Ax, "He does? That's good. Better to like someplace he has to visit than dread it." Is that the faintest of winks offered her boss? Yup. Laughter begins, then fades at Kadi's teasing. Her attire is not as put together as Kadi's, though she did make an effort. Turning a bit, she watches the Queen's entourage head into the distillary. Speaking while looking elsewhere, she fingers the stem of her wineglass, "I remember a really good drink that I had once, but can't remember where. It was kind of gold in color and fairly sweet. I think it was a desert thing. Maybe made from honey? I wonder if the pollinators here make some kind of necter that we could turn into an alcoholic beverage."

"It is a bit sweeter than I normally like, but it's pleasant and refreshing," Ax says. He looks to Rhani, smiling. "I'm sure that we could start a hive or something to get honey here. Granted, I know absolutely nothing about such things."

At long last, the little woodcarving, storytelling curator puts her plate down. She is quite stuffed, as drooping eyelids attest. "Am thirsty, now," Rheisa conversates lamely with the Senator and points at the bar area. "Want?" If so, he'd best follow on along, because she isn't keen on waiting. Not that she's moving too fast, of course. Spying the armored Kael shadowing along behind the swaggering Wodi, she squints. What a very vigilant guard, Kael is! Giving one on one protection to all his guests...

"Kael, you smell so bad all the time. You made that snarky comment about bathing earlier, but I'm starting to think that was a lie," Wodi says, turning to look at his tail. Or Tael. With a slow movement of his hand, Wodi slides his cape back, revealing the holster on his hip. Inside of that holster? Kael's blaster. "You're also super bad at your job."

Kael Greystorm glances at Wodi and shakes his head grinning, "Either that or you're really really good at yours..." He holds out his hand, "Blaster please."

"I'm sure we could figure out something. The process for honey alcohol can't be too different, can it?" Kadi asks. She frowns, as she thinks. "If that's what you're meaning, that is. Maybe there's some at the bar, and you can try it?" Seems like a good thought at any rate. "My glass is about empty, so we could head for the bar?"

Rhani Aeternum grins over her shoulder to Ax and Kadi, "Yes, exactly. Though maybe not introduce bees here unless they are here natively? I'd hate to wipe out their pollinators just to have Naboo Mead. Though it does sound good..." Lifting her glass she finishes her drink just after Kadi's suggestion. Lowering her glass, she tips her head toward her friends, "Why look at that! So am I. Let's see what the bar has. If they don't have a honey drink, we really owe it to... oh everyone... to make some."

The Gungan senator just shakes his head at Rheisa, content on taking any beverage that is carried on a tray. "Good talk," he says before continuing to fill his face with food.

Ax looks between Kael and Wodi and just shakes his head. "I miss Jax," he says with a sigh before looking back to Rhani and Kadi. "Yeah, I'll be glad when this is party is over, a massage and a shower sounds like a dream at this point."

Wodi Corcer grins at Kael and slides the blaster from his holster. He flips it around deftly and presents it, grip first, to the bounty hunter. "Let's get a drink, Greystorm." Relieved of his stolen equipment, the smuggler heads to the bar. His bare hands drum idly on the bar as he looks around, still sorta casing the joint. Because he's going to turn against Ax and steal all of his things at some point in the future. "Something fruity. And frozen," Wodi says to the bartender. A pause. "Tatooine Seabreeze, please." The bartender frowns, knowing the complexity of the drink, before he just sighs and dips off for a few minutes to mix it for the man.

So many choices, but so few good ones. Ignorant of most booze-related beverages, not to mention the details of brand labels and appropriate glassware, Rheisa just sort of lingers about the fringe the bar-going guests, eyeballing at a cautious distance. The acidic burn of bile in her throat is as fresh in her memory as it was nigh a year ago, during that fateful day in the Meltdown. There's a reason for her unease. Finally, she spots a hazy, milky substance being poured out for a guest and in a flash, she's squeezing past Wodi to hover over their shoulder with a point an inquiry "Is milk?"

Kael Greystorm takes his blaster back and slides it into its holster before he nods and removes his helmet stashing it into a satchel her carries just for it, "A drink sounds good." He toggles to droids to continue pulling security as he heads towards the bar. "Corellian Whiskey neat."

"It has milk in it," the bartender says to Rheisa. Of course it also had several forms of strong alcohol in it as well, which goes unsaid.

It seemed like the Waywards, and Rheisa is included in that as an 'honorary' member. "Raava," Ax says, having had a bottle of the Socorran booze shipped in from his homeworld. As his drink, and others are being made and distributed, Wodi's still in the process of being concocted.

There's some commotion coming from the trees, and a bird takes flight. Soon, a blur of dark grey and black is giving chase, leathery wings are beating the air as Adder is hunting the creature. It doesn't take long before they collide mid-air and there's an explosion of feathers.

After the annoying process of making the drink, the bartender returns with the requested Tatooine Seabreeze, complete with tiny umbrella and a big swirly straw. "Thanks, friendo," Wodi offers to the man, plucking up his glass and reaching out with two finger to grip the straw and tap it against the bottom. He slurps at the contents for a moment, looking over at Kael. "Have you seen my new jetpack?" he asks. "It's very cool."

Rhani Aeternum eyes Ax for a moment, then laughs again, though more softly, "Y'know? It really does. But, as those are distant hopes, let's find what solice we can in alcohol." Following to the bar, hands tucked in her pockets, Rhani eyes the seabreeze that Wodi claims, considers Kael's whiskey option and tries to remember the drinks that she has liked in the past. When it comes her turn to order, she parts her lips... then closes them as a blush begins. "Uh. Coffee with a jigger of Corellian Whiskey and a jigger of cream, please." The bartender gives her a tired grin, a nod in acknowledgment, "Ah," says that worthy, "A Corellian Gentleman? Coming right up."

The sudden flight of avians jerks Rheisa's head around so fast it's a wonder it doesn't twist off. One could easily imagine that the look in her eyes mirrors that of the tiny predator which dispatches its prey midflight. The fingers of her left hand twitch, brushing against the fluttering silk 'round her legs. There is nothing there, but even if there were...Adder's got it. Also...full tummy.

Just a little crestfallen, she looks back at the 'tender as they take Rhani's order. The joke in the name is lost on her as the 'Corellian Gentleman' is being prepped, but she finally decides "Yes, milk drink, please."

Kael Greystorm shakes his head as Wodi asks about the jetpack, "Sorry I haven't seen the new one. But hopefully you handle it better than the old one."

The bartender fixes a glass of milk for Rheisa, sliding it to her, while Adder takes his meal back to the tree he'd launched from, likely to consume it in safety from any other potential predators or scavengers.

The tour of the distillery seems over and the Queen and her handmaidens walk out, followed by their security escort. Soon, the young queen is walking towards the bar area where Ax and the others are gathered.

"It has been a pleasure, Mr. Bjin'ax," she says as Ax bows deeply to her. "Your hospitality, and that of your comrades was quite pleasant. Regretfully, we must get back to our duties. I do hope that you take care of the legacy that you have inherited when you purchased this place. The eyes of many will be upon you." She smiles, and then she departs. Soon, a slightly innebriated Gungan is trying to catch up so he doesn't miss his ride.

"Thank you," Ax says. "It has been quite the honor." As the Queen turns to depart, he stands up fully and breathes a sigh of relief and turns back to the bar to pick up his glass of Raava, downing the potent beverage in one gulp.

Wodi Corcer rolls his eyes at Kael and says, "You're already drunk, Greystorm." He offers an offended 'psssh' and goes back to sipping on his swirly straw, looking over to Rhani. He finishes imbibing for the moment and raises a hand to her, offering, "How's it goin', Rhani?"

Rheisa cups her drink tightly in hand, watching with fascination as the queen reappears, makes quick talk, then departs. Her eyes trail after the Gungan as he scurries to catch up. "Safe travel, Garnd Rrish!" she calls, lifting a hand to the sky. She tips back for a long gulp, then, sputtering just initially with the surprising burn of sneaky ingredients. It does not taste of plants though, so that is passable, in her book.

Kadi smiles, setting her empty glass down, before she lazily orders another glass of blossom wine. Because she can. She goes quiet when the queen and her entourage arrive again, letting Ax handle the schmoozing. A soft chuckle at the idea of massage and all, but for now Kadi remains quiet. She doesn't even blush.

Rhani Aeternum turns as the Queen and her people return to speak to Ax. She inclines her head respectfully for the child-Queen, but does not interfere in the conversation. A sigh is released when the girl leaves. Claiming the drink offered, she lifts it toward her lips, but pauses to wave to Wodi, "Hey there. Things are going well, Wodi. How about with you?" When she finally does take a sip from her drink, she frowns at it. Another is tried before she mutters, "Weakest Corellian Gentleman I've ever had."

"You should try and Tatooine Seabreeze, gorgeous," Wodi offers to the woman. He takes a long sip of his beverage and sets it down, palms pressing flatly against the table as he squints, brain freeze setting in slowly and painfully. He squints, eyes twitching as he says, "And things are fine. They're fine." One eye closes as he reaches up to rub his temple.

It doesn't take long before the sleek lines of the chrome skiff are seen flying over the vineyards. The Queen and her entourage, as well as the senator, heading back to Theed in style. Ax watches the ship, taking a deep breath. "I want one of those, but the only way I'd get one is if I stole it," he says. "Reserved solely for royalty, and they're definitely fit for such." Ax motions for the bartender to refill his glass, and he smiles to Kadi. "CEC makes damned fine ships, but they're very utilitarian. The people of Naboo build them for aesthetics, and by god, they do a good job."

The string quartet continues to play their soft, yet upbeat songs while servers are preparing various local cuisine for guests. Other servers are walking around with trays of chilled blossom wine and there is an open bar set up for anyone who wants something different. All of the booze was high end, as it appeared that there was no spared expense.

"Yeah, most girls I know love such fufu drinks," Ax says to Rhani with a grin. "Granted, I don't know too many men who do. Of course," he looks to Wodi. "Most men don't wear paisley either."

Kadi is dressed for Naboo, but her engagement and wedding rings are both worn today. She grins at Rhani, and then at Ax. "Well, I like Corellian whiskey too," she says. "And Raava, but I am not crazy about mixing the alcohol types." Can't all have stomachs of iron, alas. "But Rhani, you can always go for something stronger, if you want to. There's a bed here somewhere with your name on it."

There. Plunking her empty glass atop the portable bar, Rheisa feels a warm flush rising from her chest. She'd done it - engaged in 'drinking' like the other guests. The longer she stands there though, the more she's aware of the sensation of weightlessness, creeping up from her feet towards her head. It's quite a silly feeling, and one she's not entirely unfamiliar with. It's just been awhile. A long while.

Distracted by a sudden thought of 'oh shit, where's the old man?', Rheisa finds herself no longer occupying /that/ space at the bar, but rather wandering a few paces down, congregating closer to familiar faces. She takes a second look at Wodi, his expression, then the others to see if they've noticed the same. "Is bad? Drrrink too strong?"

It's probably strange to see Narsai out of armor completely, so it's easy enough to not recognize her straight away. Unlike her brother, the woman doesn't have a second set of armor for formal affairs and instead is left with a more traditional attire. A rather elegant red dress she'd worn once before at a formal gathering in the art gallery. Next to the finery Naboo is known for she'd likely seem dressed rather tamely, but the attire is a dramatic enough change from he usual that it's still not entirely comfortable. Hands folded in front of her, the redhead moves towards the crowd, here to represent the newly reformed Mandalorians no doubt.

Kael Greystorm finishes off his drink as he gets himself another one before deciding to actually go mingle a bit more and hoping that things stay secure for now.

Rhani Aeternum tilts her head a little, then actually spins to look behind her to see who Wodi is speaking to. When she does look back, turing to reface the smuggler, she is blushing furiously, "Uh. Maybe I will one day. If I can find a bartender who does not hate making it." Looking concerned, she offers Wodi her drink. "It's pretty weak. Might help with the brain freeze." Looking up, she watches the beautiful ship fly away, then looks back again. Turning a laugh toward Ax, she shrugs, "I haven't gotten the taaste for them. Maybe it takes exposure, though. Can't say that I've tried one quite like that. Yet." Glancing over toward the approaching Rheisa, Rhani shakes her head, "Mine is pretty weak, actually. It tastes more like plain milk than anything else."

"Says the guy jerking off over a pretty ship," Wodi says in response to Ax, a grin cracking his lips. His eye continues to twitch and he looks over to Rheisa, shaking his head. "Nope. Too cold." He exhales quickly and slaps the bar. "Beautiful /and/ compassionate," he says in response to Rhani's offered drink. "Thanks", he adds, taking the glass in his hand and sipping it slowly.

Kadi arches a brow at Wodi, and glances back at Rhani, noting that blush on her face. She sort of blinks, and then slips a little closers to Ax, glad that the compliments weren't headed her way. "Rheisa, hello. Is everything okay?" she asks, glancing around. And of course that bright red dress does catch her attention. She stares for a moment. Two. And then her eyes widen. "Is that Narsai?" she asks Ax.

Ax chuckles, shaking his head. "Whatever, Wodi. I can admire a nice looking ship. You, on the other hand, drink things that are usually in the realm of college girls."

Ax's eyes venture towards Narsai, and he offers the Mandalorian engineer a nod of his head. "I didn't expect to see you here, but it is a pleasant surprise. Welcome to the Hidden Grotto Winery, Narsai, our newest business endeavor." Obviously, business had been good, as such a facility could not have been cheap. He looks to his wife, smiling as the bartender slides over his refilled drink.

The botany discussion seems to be nearing its end, and Mr. Engelando has had his fill of wine. Waving off another offered glass, the old artist shuffles stiffly about and simply takes a moment to absorb the entire splay of landscape before him. The scent of the breeze, the blended symphony of dialects and accents...life is beautiful.

Rheisa glances in the direction that Kadi stares, but fails to recognize the woman in question. So she offers a nod to the first one. "Is good. Naboo is very beautiful place...you have good fortune to be here. Much better than Smuggler's Moooon." A hard blink fights off the urge to curl up here and now for a nap.

"It's a winery. Wine or not, eventually some Mandalorian is going to hear about any new place making booze, I thought I might come see for myself." Narsai greets with a smile, a lighthearted joke from the sister of the newly declared Mandalore...but she'd known the Waywards long before she was any of that. Deep down she'd always just be that mechanic and ace pilot drooling over ships on the landing pad. "It's a nice place Ax. Far removed from the grimy hangers of Nar Shaddaa...you're not planning on retiring here or something, are you?"

Rhani Aeternum stares at Wodi for a moment, but does let him have her drink. Clearing her throat, she half smiles, "Thanks. And you are welcome." Fading back just a bit, she glances toward Kadi and Ax, her smile lingering. Lifting her gaze, she waves lightly to Narsai before she notices a problem brewing between a server and a guest. Glancing back to the others, she murmers, "I'll be right back." Turning on one heel, she heads away from the knot of Waywards at the bar and toward that potential issue.

"No, business is still on Nar Shaddaa, this is simply a means of subsidizing some things and gives us a place to relax and, well simply get away from Nar Shaddaa." He sips at his drink. "So, feel free to look around, the facility is open to the public today only, then it's back to business for this place."

Wodi Corcer sets the glass down and looks between the Waywards, before he jerks his thumb back towards the landing pad. "Alright, guys. I've got to go make some money." He looks down at his clothes. "And find a way to attach my new jetpack to this." A look to Kadi and he muses, "I could mount some mag-locks to it, but that means installing some sort of rigging, too. It's gonna be a whole thing. I'm gonna talk it over with you at some point." He offers a half salute to Ax and says, "Also, if you see a bunch of thug-looking types moving stuff into my room, don't shoot them. They're good people." With that, he spins on his heel and moves off back towards his ship.

Kadi grins, as Wodi half enlists her help. "So long as they stay out of my room, I won't shoot them," she says evenly. "but keep in mind, if I have to try to shoot them, I'm liable to blow up whatever it is they're carrying rather than hit them." Because this is Kadi, and she and blasters only get along when she's fixing them. "Thank you, Rhani," she says, as the other woman goes to take care of business. "And actually, I'm surprised there aren't more here, Narsai. They must all be in disguise, without their armour. You look beautiful. Welcome to the party, and as Ax said, please do look around, enjoy."

"I should find Alek'sanderrr," Rheisa murmurs, resting one hand lightly over her satisfyingly swollen belly. "But will look more around before we go at distl..." she waves a hand at the distillery. "Thankyou, for foods and every thing." A toothy grin punctuates that remark before she gingerly strolls away, in search of her ancient date to this shindig.

Ax smiles at Rheisa. "If you decide you need a place to sleep, we have guest rooms." He then looks to Kadi, smiling at his wife. "I should go check on our other guests. Some of them seem to have partaken in a bit too much of the blossom wine." He looks to Narsai, "We're serving a batch from the previous owners, our first batch won't be ready for nearly a year. Anyway, please, enjoy your stay. We should have a chat in a more private setting at some point."

"I will," Narsai nods with a smile, eyes turning to Kadi with warmth before she looks back at Wodi's comment and shakes her head. Was everyone buying jetpacks of late? "It's certainly nice to take a break somewhere that's not having constant thunderstorms every time you step out of your ship, isn't it?" Kadi's comment makes her grin, stiffling a giggle. "Perhaps everyone here is secretly one of ours just outside their armor. We have been known to be the sneaky sort in the past."