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Snippet #2823441

located in Father, a part of Impending Pursuit, one of the many universes on RPG.

Father

Not Daddy

Setting

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Kore Character Portrait: Yeqon
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A Star-Studded Affair

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Quiet was not a word Kore would use to describe the current atmosphere. Her resident stylists, plus Mimi, were currently occupying the space of her room, waiting on her hand and foot to prepare for the evening. "I can't believe your plan worked!" Mimi squealed eagerly, her holo tab sitting somewhere on the counter while she fixed everyone a celebratory drink. "Our Ms. Mars is a genius, after all." Her hairdresser winked from behind her, pulling her hair back with an air wrap that sucked her hair in and then pushed it out with a perfect wave.

"Of course, it's hard to resist Father's biggest Holo star." They showered her with praise. Next to the Games, scoring an invitation to a ball run by Governor Cryo was hopefully not a sign that this was the peak of her career. After all, Kore had her eyes on an even bigger ship. Father was better than her previous dwelling, but Mother was where the real high-profilers lived.

Her dress, custom-made, of course, was delivered only an hour ago. On short notice, it was hard to get such a special piece tailored, but if Yeqon and Kore were to dance circles around the others at this party, then they needed to dress the part. Kore rose from her seat, a zoom fan following her to dry her nails. Her stylist unzipped the bag, revealing the garment sealed inside. "You never fail to deliver," Kore smiled kindly. She reached around him, the fan doing its best to keep up with her. "You will shine tonight," he assured her with a wink, the dress catching some of the starlights from the window and sending small rainbows scattered across the ground.

In another corner of the universe, someone else was preparing for the evening in a much less excitable manner."Leave it." Eon waved away the two mutant attendants, their once energetic movements now stiff and clumsy under Yeqon's domineering watch. "I'll finish everything. Just bring over a glass of bourbon and go outside." With bowed heads, the attendants ventured down the apartment to retrieve a drink. Now alone Eon took the opportunity to scold Yeqon, "You know how much time you wasted because you keep scaring away the attendants? Too much." Eon hastily finishes knotting Yeqon's green tie, choosing an intricate design to contrast his classical black attire. [b]"This is the third pair requested. Third, Yeqon. And they couldn't last a whole ten minutes because of you." Yes, his attitude was a growing problem. A few days of confinement by Governor Cryo and his patience had reached its limit. The space itself he was trapped inside had elegant furnishings with pristine equipment, a picture-perfect room furthest from the image of a prison. To be expected of an abode stationed on the Mothership. Yet, Yeqon knew the truth, this was a prison. A watching area for the Governor to survey his every move and every word until the ball. Forbidden to leave, unless it involved work, and one of His men must always follow him. Otherwise, he stayed here, with no outside contact. Drowning himself in alcohol, nothing new.

"S-Sir." Yeqon took the glass from the attendant's hand. They scurried away, the sound of the automatic doors opening and closing announcing their exit. Once alone, he gulped down the liquor and slammed it on the table before tugging on the sleeves of his coat. "Eon...the time please?" Yeqon asked as he smoothed back the small strains of hair poking out, his attitude was no excuse for being late to pick up Kore. Eon handed him a slim black cane with a green gem on top, "Twenty minutes until Ms. Mars is expecting you." Yeqon glanced at his reflection the mirror once more, "...Alright time to go." He hit the cane on the ground and walked toward the automatic doors. Two guards welcomed Yeqon as he stepped out of the apartment. Their purpose, was to report and watch him. He was used to it. Yeqon walked past them toward the elevators, "Our destination is the Father ship...tell the Governor." Yeqon motions at one of the guards to send his report, while the other accompanies him to Father.

Kore was ready twenty minutes before Yeqon was scheduled to arrive. She sent everyone out, including Mimi, much to her assistant's chagrin, who wanted to be here for the big moment. There was a reason for this, of course. She didn't want them to spoil the photos. Kore knew that the cams would be lurking outside of her door, thirsting for the moment that Yeqon arrived to pick her up. She didn't want the others to be in the Fotor pictures when her dress was revealed, tailored to match Yeqon's suit. Kore glanced at the clock on the wall. Anyone that had ever worked with her knew that she detested tardiness. She waited patiently, standing, of course, to not crease her dress, her crystal heels waiting by the door for the right moment. Impractical? Yes. Dazzling and showstopping? Also yes. At last, the knock came. Kore rushed forward, slipping her feet into her chosen footwear and opening the door slowly to make the moment just a bit more dramatic. "I was expecting you," Kore smiled her dazzling smile, glad to see that Yeqon was indeed wearing the suit she had sent.

Yeqon gestures for Eon and the guard to fall behind him as he stands in front of Kore's door. A small bouquet in hand to celebrate the occasion. He didn’t need to wait long for her after knocking.

Hidden at a distance, a small wave of mumbles and flashes began to buzz. The anticipation was clear in the air, and although concealed in the shadows Yeqon's excellent senses picked up on the invisible Fotors. This is a situation he expected. On such a grand night, they wouldn't miss the opportunity to capture the hottest topic together. Best to ignore them and carry on. The door opened and Kore's full figure graced everyone's presence. The sound of shutters grew louder and Yeqon held in a sigh. Focused on Kore's dazzling yet knowing smile directed at him and tried his best to match her momentum. Might as well play along. An extraordinary scene played out. Yeqon's lips curved into a gentle smile. A breathtaking sight, in many ways. Taking Kore's hand, in one swift motion, raises it and kisses her fingertips. From afar, it looks as if his lips pressed against them but up close they barely grazed the skin. But that was a secret. "Seeing you, makes me feel ashamed...I brought a gift but your beauty overshadows it." With her hand still in his, Yeqon moves his other palm showing her the bouquet, "However, I still hope they are to your likening." His actions were unprecedented, if one would guess, they might assume he's drunk. Their assumption would be wrong. Yeqon is completely sober.


Kore could hear them from where she was standing, the flashbulb of the cams snapping every few seconds from just around the corner. Yeqon smiled, his expression gentle. From afar, it must have appeared genuine. From up close, however, Kore could see that it didn't quite reach his eyes. "You always did know just the right thing to say,"[b] she took the flowers from him, leaning her head down to catch a bit of their aroma. Her hair fell in a curtain over her shoulder, obscuring her face for a moment. Dahlias, a warning of change, Bay roses, an incoming danger, and belladonnas, silence. Kore looked up at Yeqon, then back down at the bouquet, wondering if this arrangement was purposeful. Nevertheless, she looked up to meet his eyes, her smile remaining, an appropriate light blush on her cheeks that remained from the feigned kiss on her palm. [b]"Should we start making our way?"

His eyes followed Kore, noting her short expressions of acknowledgment. Although the bouquet is a gift, on closer examination, each flower carries a separate meaning. An unspoken warning that he knew Kore would immediately understand. A slight cough echoed in Yeqon's ear. He turned his gaze, quietly eyeing the Governor's dog. Their posture and expressions remained unchanged, along with their sharp watch that focused entirely on Yeqon and now Kore. Yeqon maintained his straight smile and released his grip on Kore's hand. Replacing it with an extending arm that she naturally grabs. Which caused another wave of shutters to flash as the Fotors silently cheered about the new scoop they had just witnessed. "Yes. The main attractions can not be late.” He chose his words carefully, but they had a spite to them. Yeqon turned around to the guard and nodded, "Lead the way to the Mothership." the destination of Governor Cryo's celebration gala.

The Gala brimmed with notable citizens of wealth. The blaring lights and scenery music set the tone for those arriving. Outside the building, pompous laughter filled the air as those attending waved at bystanders. Yeqon and Kore approached this scene, stationing themselves at the end of a deep red carpet. Fotors screamed their names for the chance of stealing a picture of them acting intimate. Yeqon's generous smile was now wiped and replaced with his usual blank expression, "Ready?" he asked Kore. Their arms were still intertwined.

Kore didn't need to turn around to see that there were more than just Fotors watching them. Every so gingerly, Kore took hold of Yeqon's offered arm, the two of them turning to walk towards the carrier vessel that would take them to Mother. This would be Kore's first time there. Her excitement was building, but she kept her emotions in check. The smile she wore was pleasant, but Kore could not conceal the twinkle in her eyes. "Do you go to Mother often?" Kore inquired, it would look strange to others if they did not talk. After all, they were supposed to be a couple.

The question was nothing but small talk. So, Yeqon didn't answer. His history living on the Mother isn't private, but he'd rather avoid discussing it. However, they do need to act close. Especially now, while in public.

Kore could hear the music from outside of the hall, she could hear the tinkling of glasses and the celebratory cheer of men in power who had had too much to drink. "I am always ready," Kore replied, ignoring the blaring flashbulb of Fotors and the hover mics that buzzed above their heads, hoping to catch even a snippet of conversation to put into the gossip reels. They would praise them, they would drag them. One wrong glance, frown, or hair out of place could have the cicadas buzzing about how things were going downhill. It was the job of a professional to maintain their appearance. It was their job to ignore the jabs, the jeers, and the jealousy of those who sat beneath them. Yeqon and Governor Cryo were another stepping stone for Kore and tonight proved that.

The question was nothing but small talk. So, Yeqon didn't answer. His history living on the Mother isn't private, but he'd rather avoid discussing it. However, they do need to act close. Especially now, while in public. The Gala is a battlefield, and all eyes are on them. Yeqon leads Kore down the carpet, ignoring the flashing lights and flood of questions, only stopping when Kore wished to address the Fotors. Their desire to squeeze out personal details was strong, but Kore handled them efficiently. And not just Fotors but high-ranking officials also came up to them. Curious about Yeqon's partner and feigning ignorance to make him introduce her. He plays along and presents Kore as his partner. The term, Partner, is kept ambiguous, leaving the personal meaning to be interpreted by them. Then remains quiet so Kore can further introduce herself. She was much more suited and motivated for this atmosphere than him. He knew this.

"Ms. Mars! Ms. Mars! Who are you wearing?" A fotor asked, directing their blinding flash at them. Kore smiled her dazzling, doe-eyed smile and leaned into Yeqon. "We're wearing Lilith," she emphasized, as if they had planned these outfits together.

They were stopped every few feet, not only by fotors, but ambassadors, officials, and politicians. Yeqon would remain silent, allowing Kore to control the flow of the conversation. "It is a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Martin. I've heard so much about your efforts to redistribute seedlings to mutants so that they can start their own vertical gardens. How charitable!"

Anyone who knew Kore personally knew that she wasn't a fan of mutants. However, this was not public knowledge. It was easy to keep the conversation flowing until Yeqon motioned that it was time to move on.

After a long stream of interactions, they finally entered the hall. Just like any place on the Mother, the interior was extravagant. A sight Yeqon was used to, having lived on Mother for a large portion of his life. Sparkling silverware and elegant furnishings that the Governor spent days picking out to his liking. The food arrangement was varied and plentiful, an outrageous amount even for the large number of people attending. The Governor is a man who believes things are only worth having in abundance. Wasting is not a sin as long as you have the wealth to appreciate it. Yeqon held in a sigh and turned around to face Eon and the Governor's guard.

”You
 Tell Governor Cryo we’ll give our greetings after exploring the venue.” At his words, the guards nodded and walked away. Yeqon wanted to hold off on Kore meeting Him for as long as possible. Not too long or the Governor would come and find them himself, which would only get them in more trouble.

They needed more guests to arrive to establish Kore’s safety net. This way, the Governor could not pull anything underhanded. With a bit more room to breathe, Yeqon turned to Eon next, an expression of boredom plastered on his face. ”Wait at the designated area for mutants
 do not leave without my permission.” Eon paused, then nodded.


”Yes Master,” he understood the true meaning behind Yeqon’s stern words.

Hide out of sight so no one bothers you. Don’t worry about me, unless there’s an emergency. Stay there and stay safe.

After years of parties, Eon knew how to internalize the meaning behind Yeqon’s cold exterior. With a quick bow at the waist, Eon made his exit, rushing off to hide.

Yeqon watched him leave, making sure he reached safety before turning back towards his guest. ”I apologize for the delay
 would you like to greet more people
 or dine on refreshments?”

It was just the two of them now, unprotected from the prying eyes of celebrities and officials. Kore smiled, she could feel the weight of their stares clawing at their backs, itching to get closer. "Why don't we have a bite to eat first? Something to take the edge off?"

With a curt nod of agreement and a quick, ”I agree,” Yeqon guided Kore towards a large array of food. The venue encased it all in covered clear dishes, garnished atop a table so long that it took up the length of the middle and sides of the room.

Wherever they went, prying eyes attached themselves to their backs, fixing to watch what move they made next. Yeqon allowed them to follow but kept an eye to make sure they maintained a distance.

The moment they approached the table, a robot hovered over, its display illuminating with two, blue dots that resembled eyes. ”Good evening,” the machine spoke, its lights blinking. It paused, a delicate warm light scanning them quickly, looking for their wrist chips. ”Mr. Cryo and Ms. Mars. My name is Gloria, how may I be of assistance?”

”What a clever device,” Kore admired. She had never seen a bot so expensive. Even in their world of mass-produced technology, finding such a sleek, inventive design was rare. ”Hello Gloria,” Kore greeted.

”Gloria
 show us the menus.” Yeqon replied without skipping a beat. A chime came from somewhere within the robot, indicating that it had heard them.

Almost immediately, its display changed, a holographic light spitting out images of food and drink. ”Certainly
 Mr. Cryo
 here is a list of tonight’s menu.” The robot was silent for a moment before delving into an explanation. ”There are three main menus tonight. The first of which is a two-course meal, consisting of an appetizer, soup, and entree. The second is our vast collection of desserts. Finally, alcoholic beverages complement the menu. The Governor will be handling all charges tonight, so feel free to eat and drink to your heart’s content.”

Yeqon nodded, unfazed by the Governor’s alleged charitability. It was a thinly veiled guise to show off his wealth. ”Thank you
”

”My pleasure,” the bot responded, humming pleasantly as it hovered in place.

Yeqon scrolled through the long list with one hand, the other gripping Kore’s. It served a dual purpose, both to show off false affection, and so as not to lose her to the ravenous crowd whose gaze was tearing into them. ”A gin and tonic
 sounds fine
 how about you Kore?”

There was too much to choose from, so Kore settled on something simple. ”I’ll have a cranberry vodka please,” she smiled. Every move she made, every word she spoke, caused a tiny stir among their audience.

Kore would take full advantage of it.

She tugged lightly on Yeqon’s sleeve with her free hand, putting on a pouty face. ”You promised we would share desserts, right?” Kore batted her eyes, turning back to the dessert menu. ”So how about we split a lemon meringue tart and a strawberry terrin?”

Yeqon paused, attempting to decipher Kore’s words. He could not recall ever saying such a thing. Was Kore the type to share anything of her’s? Did she not prefer a dessert of her own? For a moment he wondered if his previous observations of his co-host were incorrect when it dawned on him what she was doing.

She was playing to the masses.

Her status did not allow her to indulge without gossip from the wealthy. They had a knack for judging newcomers, especially those not from Mother. However, Yeqon was immune to their words and judgments. He could be a little bit selfish.

Yeqon relaxed his expression and curled his lips, moving a hand to Kore’s cheek to softly stare into her eyes. ”We’ll order both, that way, we can share each flavor.” He spoke with finality.

Yeqon moved his hand to carefully tuck a strand of hair behind Kore’s ear, ”My partner, must try both
 as a Cryo, I can’t approve of sharing just one.” His words were just loud enough for their watchers to hear, but ambiguous enough for them to interpret the meaning on their own. His affection, of course, was just a show.

Even if it was just for show, there was no denying that Yeqon was handsome. Kore was not immune to his dashing looks. When he leaned over to touch her face, Kore’s blush was genuine. However, all she could think about at that moment was that it was a good thing she had ordered him gloves.

If there is one thing Kore knew about Yeqon, it was that he hated being touched or touching others. The whispers surrounding them were beginning to resemble screams.


They’re sharing food.

Sharing food?

She really has him wrapped around her little finger.

That Cryo? He’s only doing this to get back at his Father. Dating some little net star, he probably thinks he’s so-

Yeqon pressed the button on the bot to confirm their order. ”Also, please arrange both desserts on the same plate.”

”Yes Mr. Cryo, your order has been received.” The bot winked again as if it were smiling. ”Please have a seat, your food will find you when it is ready.”

”Thank you,” Yeqon glanced at the tables, tugging Kore along, still holding her firmly in his grasp.

Each table had been strategically arranged with at least five chairs in order to foster conversation between guests. Yeqon chose a table that was still empty, tucked into the corner between two windows so that they could enjoy the outside view.

”Here,” Yeqon released Kore long enough to pull out a chair.

”Ever the gentleman,” Kore sat, arranging her dress so that it would not wrinkle. ]”I’m almost disappointed,” Kore’s inflection was somewhat wistful. ”The view is almost the same.” The picture of space, however, was one she would never get tired of.

Yeqon sat beside her, feeling a bit relieved that they had a moment to breathe. He surveyed the crowd of blurred faces. ”I prefer
 Father’s view,” he murmured. The scenery on Mother was mundane, something he had experienced a million times.

”However, I hope everything else
 isn’t too disappointing.” Yeqon’s words were sincere. Kore still had plenty more people to present herself to, the Governor included.

”I don’t think I could find anything disappointing. The governor really knows how to throw a party.” Kore’s artful little smile never left her lips. ”But I think you’re right, somehow. The view on Father is much better.”

It didn’t take long for their food to arrive. A dish with a golden cloche hovered down to their table, Mr. Cryo displayed on the front in silver lettering. Yeqon waited for it to settle before removing the cloche, revealing two plates with their desserts, and two glasses with their drinks. Once he removed the items and placed the cover back, the tray flitted off to return to the kitchen.

”For you,” Yeqon placed the lemon meringue tart in front of her. ”I will start with the strawberries.” He flashed a small, rare smile.

”Thank you” Kore took the plate from him, eager to dig in. She raised her glass in a brief toast before taking a sip, the familiar burn taking the edge off.

Yeqon raised his glass too. ”As a warning
 we are about to have company,” his eyes shifted to a couple eyeing the open seats at their table. ”Should I drive them away
 so that you may eat your desserts
 in peace?” He was only half-serious, since Yeqon had the power to push them away, but knew that Kore’s ultimate objective was to appeal to others, not that Yeqon could understand why.

”No, they may join us,” Kore shook her head, ”After all, I’m only here for their
 entertainment.” Kore chose her words carefully. From her understanding, Yeqon would have been forced to attend either way. It was Kore that was here to dance on strings for the guests.

”But my goodness
 if this is not the best lemon meringue tart I’ve ever had,” she hummed in pleasure, the tartness of the lemon cutting through beautifully with the sugary meringue, combined with a buttery, flaky crust. For a brief moment, if you listened closely, you may have been lucky enough to hear a hint of an accent in Kore’s words, a relic of her old life.


To Be Continued...