Arcas was impressed of the thought and design that had went into the social event, overcoming the modest accessories and supplies. Being in the Imperial command hierarchy had brought him to a few gatherings, but his opinions had never given a good impression on his colleagues. But soon the memories from before he joined the Empire bubbled in and Arcas found himself having small talk, meeting new people, learning names and partaking in the relaxed atmosphere.
Lin Daochi:
Lin, though she was more than hateful towards the Imperials in general, decided to give Arcas the benefit of a doubt. ”If you need help, I may have some contacts that could help your family if needed. For now, I am offering my services to them rather than you, but that may change if you prove yourself more trustworthy. I may even build you a completely new identity that will pass checks by anyone but the most inquisitive ISB agents.”
Arcas gave a polite bow to the blue woman.
"I appreciate your assistance, my lady, as I believe does house Endeel. Rest assured, despite my previous affiliations, I endeavor towards respectable and empathetic conduct." Spotting Heigeren and his intentions, Arcas gave a bemused chuckle.
"I believe the master of ceremonies would like for your attention. I shan't take more of your time."
Devon Kismet:
The steward took this as her cue and the music came back on. Devon joined her behind the bar and set to work, chatting and joking with people as he made them drinks.
He made a point to introduce himself by name to Arcas, Aderek and Lin as he served them.
Arcas felt a slight relief as he could finally place a name on the man who was in command... Or at least seemed to.
"Now that the situation is no longer extraneous, I must express my gratitude. I realize what a leap of faith it was to put your trust in a man wearing your enemy's uniform. This is quite awkward, but when you have the time, I would like to ask for a further favour."
Fiarr Melan'nel:
Fiarr wanders over and strikes up a conversation with Arcas.
"Hi. I'm Fiarr. Having fun yet? Make sure you do because if you hang around it's rarely like this. Devon, oh that's Seven's name by the way, wasn't kidding when he said it's hard and pays bad. I've been with the group for months, have been shot at numerous times and haven't received a single credit! Price of being a Rebel I guess!"
Arcas took a sip of his drink while the Bothan was speaking. Her relaxed veneer, the cheery way she joked about her pay told a different story than the same Bothan who casually stated that she could torture whatever information she needed out from him. Arcas was reminded of the Imperial navy officers on promotion ceremonies: All smiles and handshakes, but ready to toss anyone in their way to the sharks. The thought that in the Fiarr's case those people were
probably deserving did not prove exactly comforting.
"It's still more than the Empire's salary of distrust and accusation of treason", Arcas stated politely.
"But I suppose this is a vocation more than just a day's job. I can respect people who are willing to effect change, regardless of its cost", he stated, offering to clink his glass with the Bothan.
Fiarr Melan'nel:
Fiarr wanders over and strikes up a conversation with Arcas.
[Language unknown: "Ntloen i ouacwabe a Wiltedthooun? Hime iv eithbewhwa usday."]]
"Look I hate to be rude, but I have to do something, sorry talk soon.
[Language unknown: "M manomered."] Arcas nodded, raising his glass.
Dohr Veen was an interesting acquaintance and Arcas inquired whether his medical expertise was self-taught or whether he received some sort of education. The subject of education was close to his heart and Arcas gladly shared his experience of being taught on myriad of subjects by his many relatives, most possessing doctorate on their relevant fields.
Regarding Aderek, Arcas did notice his reluctance to introduce himself. The ex-imperial respected his decision, choosing to greet him with a respectful nod. He recognized the man's prosthetics and the prison's responsibility in their existence, feeling sorry about the situation in general.
While choosing the next delicacy to enjoy, Arcas listened to the flow of the conversations. He enjoyed the feeling of genuine relaxation, the absence of the feeling of walking on knives that came with interacting a large portion of Imperial command staff. Especially since Fiarr was absent. But every now and then, to his annoyance, a thought lingered to his mind like the stench from an old flight helmet filter:
These people are unlawful dissidents and pirates. He shook his head slightly.
So what. I'm a treasonous defector.
To keep his mind occupied with other matters, Arcas decided to entertain anyone listening with interesting anecdotes he had learned from his aunt Elanas who had studied the history of galactic frontiers. Assuming if anyone is interested.