“Dad,” Leda called from her favorite mauve chenille settee, mass of coiled curls bobbing as she poked her head overtop, “can we go hang out with Carr at the park?”
Corazon paused mid-pen stroke, looking over from the stationary before him. He glanced at the chrono, then back to his daughter’s expectant, not hopeful, inked face.
“Of course you may, nini. Are you thinking you’ll have dinner out as well?”
“Dunno. Maybe. Tha'sok?”
“If you like. Just let us know what you decide.”
“We will!”
She got up and padded off, and he heard her poking into Noga’s room and fetching him to their excursion. The Pantoran sighed in relief softly that she knocked first. It did only take one time. There was only some amount of grumbling, and then he was shortly thereafter watching their teenagers slouch off towards the front door.
But not before they detoured over to his little artist’s nook with the painting desk and gave him quick pecks. Leda did, at least. Noga was in his wave and one-armed hugs phase.
“Have fun,” he told them. “Teyez ahmo.”
“Tey ahmo,” they echoed, both of them, and headed off.
An hour later, he got a message from Noga.
going to get richi’s. Home like 6
He typed back.
Alright, dears, enjoy. We’ll put the leftovers up. Have fun. Love you!!!
The basic shape of things was starting to form when Melissa padded in. Though she had no set curfew now, and they’d started talking about getting her an apartment of her own if she wanted, she still always made dinner, unless she was spoiling it with ice cream with Draca.
“Good day, little bug. How was it?”
“Okay,” the young lady answered with a half yawn. Her pale skin was starting to actually tan, her layered and flowy sleeves swishing over colorful skirts. “I’m going to shower. Tell you over dinner?”
“I’d love that.”
-
As the sun sank out the window and the angle of light changed, the Jedi resigned from his art for the evening. He packed up his pencils and covered the canvas, then went to send a few more messages and set some tea.
Ruka was the next one in, and the second he was through the doorway, he sagged. Cora rushed to him, slipping under his arm to support, and his husband leaned into him with a grunt of gratitude that needed no words. They turned their heads at the same time for a brief kiss of welcome and habit, then nudged noses. The Pantoran nudged them to the couch with little fuss, not minding the sweat on Ruka’s skin and collar when he tucked his face there, wrapping an arm across chest while his partner sagged back into the cushions.
“Your head?” Cora whispered, kissing the special spot by where his ear had been.
Ruka grunted again because, he knew, nodding hurt. “I forgot the damn glasses.”
“Oh, Angel.” He petted silvery and green locs. “We should get one of those chains that you can hang them on to wear. They can be very fashionable. And you could have a pair for outgoing and one to leave here. We can afford more than one pair,” he reminded very gently.
The Mirialan squirmed, but grumbled assent. Sometimes, even now, he did need the reminding.
“Kids still out?”
“Mhmm. Mela’s home though.”
“Ay, a'rigght.” He groaned softly.
“How was Bril?”
“Fine. Mostly had him working. I didn’t push it.”
“I’m proud of you.”
“Ay…” The blush that stole on the Mirialan’s cheeks reminded of the watercolors at his desk. “Might make tcaka tonight if Noga and Leda are out. And Bril’s not coming over this weekend…”
-
Because Bril’s anniversary with Minnow was coming up, and they were going out. He’d been talking about it in and out of training for a week now.
Very suddenly, Corazon felt himself starting to cry. He stiffened and sniffed, discreetly wiping his eyes, old habits ever impressed upon him in Mother’s words, chin up. Ruka, of course, noticed.
“Babe?” He sat them up a bit. “What’s wrong? Hey…” Scarred green hands cradled his face, and Cora leaned into them, letting a few tears slip free. A crack radiated through their bond, warm but burgeoning.
“I’m relieved, is all,” he sniffled. “They’re telling us things. They’re telling…I’m just glad.”
Noga and Leda, of course, they always did. Melissa too. And Bril. Others still didn’t…Siva was hiding, Zuza was…well…and many never would, perhaps, as was the peace they reckoned to hold, but…
Some did. They did.
Ruka immediately hugged him, shushing as much as commiserating.
“Me too,” he whispered, choked. There was that hope, instead of expectation. Fragile, too weathered in disappointment after disaster after dejection, too used to trust trampled and abandoned, avoidant silences. But it was there, small of wing, now. Sometimes, a light in their days.
He was trying to capture it on canvas. Morning light breaking through, perhaps, ephemeral and doomed to set, but its arrival, oh, it was worth enduring its departure.
Ink - Avery/Matcha
The Selenian sun was beaming down and the ocean was making its crashing waves onto the beach. The sands shifted beneath their feet as the pair approached the shore. Avery Watson inhaled the salty air as he found a spot he deemed worthy to set up their camp. By now, he was regretting his chivalry to carry a cooler (which thankfully had wheels), an umbrella and two folded beach chairs. Despite the Mirialan’s protests and offers to help, he refused. He only wanted her to enjoy her time today.
After some painstaking minutes that made him question his fitness, he finally constructed the temporary base. He stood hands on his hips, a sheen of sweat blanketing the skin of his bare torso, slightly proud of what he accomplished. Next time, a droid will be doing this kind of work, he inwardly noted. He would never put himself through that again.
—
“This is a… I guess it’s a trust building exercise.” Avery handled the small jar of skin-safe black ink and set it on top of the cooler. His hazel orbs lifted to meet the blues of Matcha’s. “Each of us will pick five of the meanest names anyone has ever called us who it was, if you can remember, and how it made you feel. We’ll go down the list one by one and take turns finger painting each word on each other’s body and when we make it to the end of the lists wash off the ink in the water. It’s supposed to symbolize a new start or something mystical.”
When he finished his explanation he offered her a genuine smile, glad he wasn’t anywhere else in the galaxy but here with her.
“Ladies first?”
<@301514304845381632>
Rhylance and Lucine: Holiday
A gentle breeze blew over the flowery meadows, enticing a perfumed scent to any in the area. From the tip of the hill, mountains, waterfalls, rivers, a giant lake: all the beauties nature has to offer lay before the couple’s eyes. While a stoic expression never left his face, even one of such singular focus and desire as Docrh'ylanc'ehause could not understate the serenity the lake country of Naboo had to offer. While the idea of taking a holiday was not a regular occurrence for the headmaster of SISSMA, the Chiss put his own goals to the side for the sake of his partner.
Lucine Vasano, as always, was the very definition of radiance. Nothing in his red gaze had ever looked as physically inviting, or overwhelmed as completely as this woman. While many didn’t believe such a thing to be possible, Rhylance truly was in love with the gorgeous redhead. He knew that he himself could be…alot…so he planned on a surprise vacation for the two to take. She hadn’t fully believed him to be serious, but here they were…together. Slowly the Chiss took her hand and led her towards the beach.
“I do hope you find this tome to be…relaxing, my dear. You deserve it.” His words danced off his silver tongue with practiced ease.
<@534224904917352493>
Trees - Bril/Morra
The Citadel Estle City, Selen 42 BBY
The Citadel’s terrace garden overlooked much of the city below, providing Bril Teg Arga and his young protege, Morra Galo, a view of Estle City that few ever got to see. He stood with his arms folded behind his back and inhaled slowly. A gentle breeze carried the smell of magnolias in full bloom – hints of citrus and anise hidden amongst a vaguely saccharine floral punch. The light of Dajorra blanketed them in its warmth while chirping birds flitted from branch to branch. As he enjoyed simply being present here, he felt the questioning eyes of his student settle upon him.
“Yes, Morra?” he asked amusedly.
“We’re here to … smell flowers?” she inquired, trying her best not to sound too skeptical lest she offend him.
“Sort of,” he replied, turning away from the balcony to look at her. “I like coming here because it’s quiet. Quiet in the Force, yet still teeming with life. It acts something like a palette cleanser for my senses, and allows me to really commune with the Living Force in a way that isn’t possible in the hustle and bustle of the city. You should try it out.”
Bril led Morra to the center of the courtyard and gestured for her to sit at the base the large tree situated in the center of the terrace garden.
“Now, close your eyes and just listen. Open your senses to the Force and let all of the beings around you whisper their song of life.”
Morra did as she was instructed, closing her eyes and settling into a comfortable posture. A few moments passed. Then, her eyes shot open.
“I felt it!” she cheered, “The birds, and the flowers and the trees—this tree.” She turned and placed her hand on it, splaying her fingers out across its bark. “What is it?”
<:BrilSymbol:1229273661266067506>
Bril’s lips pulled into a smile as a touch of pride bubbled up within him. “So, you noticed that this one is different, hm? Your senses are correct. This is an Uneti tree. It possesses a much stronger connection to the Force than most plants do.”
“It felt like everything here was connected to it. Bound by its roots, burrowing in its trunk, nesting in its branches.”
He nodded. “Rooted and interconnected like all things are within the Living Force. This is what we strive to protect, Morra. Life itself.”
<@315438760428961793>
Though Rhylance had proposed this holiday, Lucine did not think he would actually go through with it. It was not that he did not care or was unreliable. But she knew that an intense passion burned beneath his stoic demeanor. He was consumed with the drive to acquire knowledge and push the boundaries of science to their absolute breaking point. His desire for excellence in his field was one of the things that she loved about him, even if it meant frequent evenings apart as he worked late in his lab. Given that she was often busy pursuing her own goals, she could hardly blame him.
But here they were.
The fields of Lake Country were a riot of varying shades of green, offset by fields of wildflowers and dotted with crystal clear lakes and streams. Their small cabin was set apart from a small pastoral village, allowing for some degree of quiet and privacy. Even as jaded as she was, Lucine had to admit that it was a truly lovely setting.
She smiled up at him as he took her hand and led her toward the beach of a sizeable lake, where a blanket had been spread out near the water. Tabriss’s work, no doubt, though the butler was no where to be seen. “ We deserve it,” she replied. “After your success in mapping the DNA of the Arx cephalopods, you deserve a break.” <@206692046424113152>
Rhylance felt the strong desire to begin discussing his most recent findings, especially since there was so.much new.data to work with. His mind was working on autopilot trying to further dissect his findings. However, he held back. He promised a work free environment, and with what he had planned, he meant to keep his word.
Walking onto the beach, Rhy carefully removed his shirt, revealing his toned but not overly muscled torso. He then removed his glasses, not that he actually needed them. Clad only in his swimming shorts, the sun danced across his cerulean skin. Turning to his lover, he gently caressed her face and lifted her chin to connect his lips to hers in a kiss. He wanted to show her a well hidden side of himself today.
“Join me for a swim?”
Lucine’s lips quirked upward in a smile as she watched him wrestle with the urge to discuss his work. It was something he was intensely proud of, and it was fun watching him overcome his natural inclinations. They had agreed beforehand that this would be a true vacation; she had even gone as far as to leave her datapad at home in a show of good faith. It seemed that he too was intent to keep his word, and so she did not prod him any further on the subject.
She took a step back, appreciating the view as Rhylance removed his short, her heart giving a small flutter in her chest at the sight. She had seen him in varying stages of undress before, but he still had that effect on her. She melted into his arms at the soft kiss, but the idyllic moment was broken with his question.
Lucine glanced at the water. The water was smooth and placid, lapping against the beach in gentle waves. It seemed calm, and almost inviting. It was probably not that deep, and it was unlikely that there were any predators in the water.
But she could not swim. Though Strong had tried to teach her, she couldn’t manage much more than a graceless dog paddle. In the past she had demurred, claiming she did not dare get her hair wet while staying safely on dry land.
Though her smile did not fade, the barest trace of tension appeared around her eyes, a sign of anxiety for those who knew how to read her. She thought about demurring, but the idea of leaving his embrace so soon was… unappealing. “Only if you promise to save me if I start to drown,” she replied.
<@206692046424113152>
A blue hand traced down the length of her back and Rhylance held Lucine close to him. He wanted to relieve her of her tensions, and placed a gentle kiss on her neck and shoulder. Her words pierced him as he remembered her insufficiency in the water. He whispered gently into her ear.
“The only one drowing today, is me when I stare into your emerald eyes.”
Taking her hand he led her into the cool crystal like water, deep enough to enjoy the refreshing clarity, but not deep enough to enrage her anxieties.
<@534224904917352493>
Matcha had spent many days on many beaches with a variety of people, but never had she been to one for a date. When Avery invited her, she jumped at the opportunity to live out one of her childhood dreams. Unlike any other man in her speckled past, Avery showed up on time to pick her up, arriving with flowers for her kitchen table that they both were sure to enjoy during their next meal.
They shared a static-charged conversation during their ride to the beach, having changed into their swim clothes before they left the Mirialan’s apartment in downtown Estle, the both of them stealing glances at each other when they could.
The pair found themselves needing some space from each other after they exited the speeder that had brought them to the beach, their individual self-control worn down from the forced proximity to each other. Avery’s insistence on setting up their small hideaway on the mostly vacant beach gave Matcha ample time to ogle the man’s body, eyeing his defined musculature as he struggled to unfold the chairs and plant the umbrella in the sand. The bikini-clad woman brought a hand to her mouth to hide her giggle as she wondered if the Human in front of her had ever set something like this up before.
It was a quick transition to the pair of them relaxing in the sand together, their bodies shining in the sun. Marzy turned her head to look at the doctor as she listened to his activity plans for the day, her white hair bright and vibrant.
“You’re just looking for an excuse to touch me up, aren’t you?” Marzy teased, her voice smooth and playful, befitting of a beach trip. But when she was met with a sincere and genuine gaze, she realized the activity Avery had planned for them was something to be taken seriously. Her icy orbs softened as she nodded and smiled. “Sure, I can go first.”
The Mirialan snagged the bottle of ink from the man and opened it up, shifting her body fully to be facing him. “What’s your word and the reasoning for it?”
Although their small vow of celibacy was still in effect, his willpower was waning each date and seeing her in a bikini was like setting a bantha steak in front of a starved nexu. Unashamed, he ogled her form. His ears almost perked up when she teased the reasoning for the exercise he set up. “Without a doubt.”
Avery watched her celadon fingers grab the container, a gentle smile on his lips. Though the matter was something delicate, she didn’t run. It was an opportunity for him to get to know her better and for her to get to know him..
“My first word is arrogant.” He cleared his throat. “My foremost memory was when I was in secondary school, flying through my classes and… I was the youngest and took extra time on my appearance. A group of peers ‘confronted’ me. It made me feel small but… instead of trying to prove them wrong, I doubled down and showed them what it meant to be arrogant. It pushed some good people away from me and I drew the attention of others that were truly malevolent and–” He chuffed. “Arrogant. It took some time, but I learned I didn’t want to be that. I was on my way to being a doctor and I wanted to help people and a large part of that is humility. I am confident in who I am but that’s not the same as arrogance.”
The Human looked forward as Matcha painted the word on his arm until she was done. He inspected the ink as best as he could. It was as he expected and her handwriting was very neat. He glanced at her face and his pensive, somber expression turned into a joyful one. Retrieving the bottle from her hand, he turned and faced her preparing some of the paint on his dominant index finger. “Alright, beautiful. Your turn.”
Dog - Kobign, Jax, Liam, Canchi (single writer/short blurb)
Estle City, Selen 42 ABY
“There, there. It’s'okay puppy, Dr. Liam gots you!”
The young boy reached out to pet the large albeit lanky cythraul. His gentle coos and reassurance drew the canine in close with his very noticable limp, left forepaw raised and tucked to his chest. Liam coaxed him to lay down, to which Canchi then pushed and semi-rolles till more of his stomach was exposed to the kid – that ‘injured’ paw free to examine.
The injured paw that Canchi hadn’t had 5 minutes ago before coming out of the bedroom and doing a double take realization the human child was visiting. It took all Kobign’s resolve to not chuff and call the canije out on it. What’s one more trick in the books? It both entertained and encouraged Liam’s interests and dreams, so a successful behavior in his opinion.
So, the selenian-hybrid sipped his coffee and reserved his smile for behind his datapad he read.
“Now let see…Canchi, paw!”
The trained military space wolf complied, daintly giving it as if he hadn’t routinely done eight to ten meters leaps and drops during deployment. Repulse out of shuttles in a harness or jump out of the same ships into the ocean. The cythraul’s character was well documented by his temperament and desire to please. It wasnt too unexpecting after some thought that the canine had adopted the child into his service. .
Liam gingerly examined the paw. He folded it to look at both the top and bottom, examined the nails and pads, spread the toes and smoothed the fur. A very thoughtful and serious ‘hrm’ escaped him before a single finger was raised in epiphany. He reached behind him and riffled through his bag, pulling out a roll of gauze that looked like it had been unrolled and rerolled a few dozen times, likely dressing the fluffy appendages of stuffed toys. He went about wrapping Canchi’s paw and lower leg loosely and tieing it off.
“There! All better!” the kid exclaimed with raised and open arms. A fist theb rested on his hip as his other hand pointed at the cythraul. “You got to rest it, no jumping around and playing. Sleep, okay?”
A whine answered followed by enthusiastic licking of said serious gesturing hand, eliciting a fit of giggles. Liam leaned in and buried his hands in the short but still extremely thick fur of Chanchi’s and gave him a kidd on the top of the head.
And Kobign forgot the last two paragraphs he read, he forgot his whole intent to read in the first place. Setting the datapad on the side table, he looked up to meet Jax’s too deep and knowing blue eyes, the crinkles of wisdom at their edges. The taller canine hybrid had been finishing prepping lunch, a knife poised above bread with the spread dripping off lightly. His husband’s eyes were teary and it wasn’t a far reach to guess where his mind went. .
Kobign tucked the corner of his reading glasses into his mouth, mindful enough to not chew on them while his thoughts wandered to mid day talks on the balcony in the sun, looking over Estle City and wondering what ifs. What if they adopted a kid together, raised and nurtured them? What if…they had their own? It was musings that had slowly been building more and more body, realness. But for now, while doubts and concerns still linger, he’ll be more than content beinf allowed to be in Liam’s life. In Max’s and Olly’s, the others. A chosen family invited in.
He sighed lightly, crossing his arms and watching the young boy and cythraul start playing fetch with a stuff reek – Canchi very much not following the no play rule. His wound magically gone.
🐘🌙🦮🐸
<@315438760428961793>
“Flatterer,” Lucine murmured, though her eyes sparkled at the compliment. She let herself be led to the waters edge, pausing only long enough to remove her white sundress with its green and red floral pattern, revealing the green bikini underneath. It was cut specifically to flatter her figure in all the right places, the deep green of the fabric standing starkly against her pale skin and accentuating her eyes.
The water was pleasantly cool and clear, allowing her to see to the bottom. She was not one to allow her fears to get the better of her, so she steadily allowed herself to be brought into greater and greater depths, until it was up to her shoulders.
Lucine watched as Rhylance effortlessly navigated the water, proof that he was actually good at swimming. What’s more, he seemed to be enjoying it. “Where did you learn to swim, my love? One would think the mountains of Csilla would not be conducive to such an activity.”
<@206692046424113152>
“That story is from a lifetime ago.” Rhylance responded in a low voice. Most would’ve thought he was merely returning to his stoicism, but Lucine could clearly see the wheels turning as memories played over in the Chiss’s mind. Memories of love long lost but never truly forgotten. It wasn’t stronger than what he felt for Lucine, just different.
Closing his eyes for a moment, he took a breath before returning to the present. His eyes glided over the figure of his partner. She certainly had an eye for fashion. He was never not impressed by her choice in clothing. Her radiance never failed.
“I hope you are ready for tonight. I have plans for us, my love.”
<@534224904917352493>
Alex Draconis - Holiday
The smell of sizzling bacon and the obnoxious ringing of a bell filled Jerem Plaza. Along one side of the Plaza, not interrupting the flow of business traffic but still prominently visible, a huge booth had been set up. A grill and heat table had been set up within it, containing the sputtering and sizzling fatty meat. Next to this was a cart stacked high with small glasses and bottles full of clear liquid. The front of the booth was dominated by a long table on which were splayed out a wide variety of low-powered training blaster pistols. Behind this table stood Alex, clad in a cerulean velveteen robe and swinging a brass bell nearly the size of his head with one hand while pointing to various passers-by with the other.
“It is the season of joy and friendship! A time for reflection on how awesome you are, and compassion for those less awesome than you! You there, sir!” Alex called out to a Wookiee who had just stepped out of the Herbal Exchange. The large man stopped, confused, and tilted his head at Alex as he pointed to himself. “Yes, you! Come over here, that I may grant upon you the gifts of Slicemas!”
The Wookiee was not entirely sure how to respond but drawn in by the boisterous nature of the man talking to him. Alex turned to the food and drink station at the back of the booth for a brief moment, then spun about to face his guest, pressing a to-go container and a lidded cup into this hands.
“A pile of sizzling bacon and a glass of tequila for you! The traditional fare of Slicemas! You are great, and do not let anybody tell you different!” The towering Wookiee looked down at the containers which had been forced upon him, shook his head while chuckling, and walked away toward whatever business he had for the day.
Alex nodded to himself, satisfied with one more instance of spreading the cheer of the holiday. He pulled another pack of bacon from the cooler by the grill and placed it on the heat, taking a deep breath as the delectable scent of the first bits of grease and fat were exposed to the flames. Giggling and screaming from nearby caught his attention, and he returned once more to his duties.
“Lads, over here now!” Alex called out to a pair of young boys, one Rodian and the other Selonian, who were playing nearby. They approached cautiously, as confused as the Wookiee before them had been but also filled with the impetuousness of youth.
“Go forth and learn, children! Practice your aim, that you might protect yourself in Slice’s name!” Alex proclaimed as he handed each of the boys a training blaster. Extremely low-powered, a hit from one would cause little more than a slight shock - akin to touching metal after rubbing socked feet on carpet. The boys looked at Alex, then each other, then ran off laughing. Alex heard the telltale signs of the blasters firing and startled shouts as they rounded the corner into an alley and smiled. He resumed the raucous bell-ringing and callouts, content to spread holiday cheer.
Lucine watched as the Rhylance’s eyes took on a faraway expression as he was momentarily caught up in memories. She was well aware of his past, of the women who came before. She did not feel an inkling of jealousy for the women who had previously held his heart. In a way, she was grateful to them. He would not be the man he was without them, the man she had come to love.
She raised an eyebrow at his words, and reached up to lightly trace her nails along his cheek in a gentle caress as she gave him a teasing smile. “Oh my, it seems that brilliant mind of yours has been working overtime. Would you care to share these plans, my love?”
<@206692046424113152>
Rhylance gave a sly smirk the redheads way. He was in a rather playful and coy mood for the time being.
“Just enjoy the ride, Lucine. This will be a holiday you won’t forget.”
With that, he laid back in the water relaxing under the suns rays and letting pleasant weather calm him. He could’ve give it all of his tricks ahead of time. That would ruin the fun of seeing her surprised face.
<@534224904917352493>
“Hmmm.” Lucine looked up at him through her eyelashes, taking in his sly smile and secretive demeanor. She already knew that the doctor was the sort to demonstrate his affection through grand gestures. If previous dates were any indication, she knew he was telling the truth when he promised an unforgettable holiday.
The afternoon was spent in lazy relaxation, enjoying the beautiful weather and each others’ company. In lazy solitude, they were able to simply be themselves, without need for the facades that they showed to the outside world.
After a relaxing afternoon, they returned to their cabin to make preparations for dinner. Tabriss had taken the liberty of laying out their evening attire, a suit for Rhylance in the utilitarian style he preferred, and a charming evening gown for Lucine. It seemed that even though Lucine was in thr dark, her butler had some inkling if the doctor’s plans.
<@206692046424113152>
Marzy took great pleasure in painting the word onto Avery’s arm. Her pace was slow and her breaths were shallow as her heart began to race. They had shared plenty of intimate moments and even a few close calls in regards to their vow and it seemed the Human was intent on tempting the woman past her breaking point.
Delighted, the Mirialan handed the ink off to the man and thought for a moment. She had been called many things in her life which made it rather difficult to pick out just one word for him to write.
“Empty-headed.”
The words hurt even then as they brushed past her full lips. It wasn’t often she was forced to think of things like this. “I wasn’t so lucky when it came to my schoolwork. I always struggled and had a hard time understanding the lessons. Needed a couple tutors and even then…” she sighed “I’ll never forget the day my teacher called me that in front of the whole class. From that day on, everyone seemed to think it was fine to call me stupid in some way.”
Upon hearing the words leave her lips, Avery frowned. Though he was eager to touch her, he wasn’t eager to temporarily tattoo her skin with the offensive phrase. He listened to her explanation, a displeased expression etched into his handsome features. Choosing her forearm, he slowly wrote each letter. His handwriting usually was not legible and even though he couldn’t compete with hers, slowing down helped the readability.
Despite not knowing if she cared to be comforted or encouraged about the matter, he offered his two creds, unsolicited.
“Well, I don’t think I need to tell you that none of what they said could not be further from the truth. Being a pilot is nothing short of amazing and all the things you have to know to cook as well as you do requires some serious knowledge and skill.”
Avery slipped his paint-stained hand into hers and rotated her forearm to inspect his work. “This should go up in a gallery. Don’t hold back the complements.” He chuckled and lifted her hand to his lips, leaving a kiss as a sort of signature. Maybe she would appreciate the lighthearted gesture.
The moment faded as he lowered her hand and grabbed the ink bottle again, placing it into her hands. “My next word is…” He inhaled and then exhaled. “Selfish. It was said by someone I thought I loved. It hurt because I put a lot of effort into being generous with my time and capital. She knew especially how much I gave but… it wasn’t enough. I wasn’t enough. No one else has called me that but it did sting when I heard it so maybe there’s some truth there.”
Sure, every person had some selfishness in them but he thought it more kin to self-preservation. If he was unwell, how would he be in any position to help others? Pushing the thought aside, he met her gaze again, their closeness torturous for the man. Next time he would make sure to rent a private beach. “If I haven’t said it before but you have beautiful eyes, Miss Matcha.”
15 ABY VSD Covenant Hyperspace
The room was sparse. Durasteel bulkheads reflected the dim light from the lantern that he had set on the bunk a few moments before. Knees ground into the cheap industrial carpeting, dense and grey, meant to help absorb sounds and reduce echoes. It did a perfunctory job, just like everything else meant for passengers on the clan’s destroyer.
He took a deeper breath as he knelt in front of the footlocker, his hands busy, working droplets of water into the black stone in a dish with a brush. There were a million easier ways to get ink, but he had hoped that old ways would help him remember what he had lost, buried deep beneath the pain.
He had shown him how, pushing him to remember. The man was only a few years younger than him but he seemed to be wiser. Calmer. More in tune with what he was. Who they both were. He chuckled at the thought, their paths in life taking them to places where that should have been the reverse. The serenity of the ascetic order was merely a veneer, even for those who deigned to call themselves master. He’d seen the old man lose his calm for far less than what they had just been through. Hands shook for a moment, the chill of the void seeping in as though there were gaps in the hull. Or was it the viscera that he had only just washed off, the services for which they had been hailed as heroes by this, Yet another war, but new and different lords. He didn’t know, and that was probably for the best.
Finally satisfied with the paste, he added a few more drops of water, thinning it into a workable ink. The brush dragged across the paper, his hand hesitating mid stroke. He bit back a curse, eyes narrowing at his own failure. A sweep of his arm shuttled the paper from in front of him, exposing a fresh sheet beneath. He coursed the brush through the ink again, taking a deep breath and holding it as he let it accumulate the ink in its bristles.
“You’re not here, now.” The voice dredged up from the past, and he was a boy again. “Be present.” The words sounded weird, but he understood them all the same. Tiny hands grasped the brush, dragging the line across the paper smoothly, then flicking back up at the end, a spattering of ink droplets spraying across the desk. He looked up and saw the man standing there, a half-eaten apple in his hand as he looked down at him. There was sternness there, but beneath it there was a warmth in his eyes, behind the crook of his smile. This was not his master. The words merged together, a conglomeration of failed memories and lost words that congealed in his head like a constipation of thought.
He set the brush down on the rest, callused fingers and shivering hands reminding him of where he was. Eyes followed the line up, looking at the work itself,comparing it to the image in his head. He sighed, rubbing the bridge of his nose again. Try though he might, all he could manage were half-garbled snippets, buried beneath so much of the old man’s hubris that they only ever seemed to come unbidden.
He leaned backward, eyes darting beneath heavy lids. Even with the old man, he was an outsider. Unafraid of himself, unafraid of what he might do when it was needed. The mission was important. Saving people was important. How exactly he did that was a consideration for later, if he survived. That wasn’t enough for him, despite the smiling children, despite the grateful tears. He let the air out of his lungs slowly.
It wasn’t just the old man that cast him aside. The noble had used him to devastating effect, helping solidify his people during their war. Then the battle was over, and he was just another outland soldier, with no place among them. Even she had left him, afraid of what might be possible behind those darkened eyes. He had pretended not to know that she was leaving, but he did. He still wasn’t sure if it was a kindness or cowardice that he had said nothing.
Every time it was the same. Their actions always telling a different story than what their hearts did. In the end, he had no place. Perhaps that was his fate: Ever alone, among the waves.
That was why he hesitated to call him Brother. To use the name. To trust that this time, it would be different. That they would not suddenly remember to fear him.
Rhylance had requested a shuttle service to pick them up from their cabin, and from their the couple looked from the viewports, having at the majestic beauty of Naboos natural landscapes. Rhylance held great respect and reverence for the natural world, and most of its rules and laws. Others he would bend to his mind where possible.
The shuttle brought them to the heart of Theed, capital city of Naboo. A restaurant was waiting for them where Rhylance had reservations acquired to grant them dinner under a beautiful and clear starry sky. Leading the beautiful red head to their table, Rhylance had high hopes for how this night would go.
“As beautiful as this night is, my love, it pales to match your radiance.”
<@534224904917352493>
They spent the shuttle mission in companionable silence, both comfortable enough with quiet an the other’s company that they did not need to fill the silence with meaningless conversation. But the redhead did occasionally glance at him, trying to divine what he had in mind. If it were anyone else, she might have tried to sneak a peek at his thoughts. But she would not do that to him. Never to him.
She smiled at his words of praise. “How can I not be? Your company elevates me.” She glanced around at the restaurant, taking it in. It was one of the newest and most exclusive restaurants on Naboo. Reservations were hard to come by. Even she, with her resources, had been unable to secure one once it was certain that their trip was going to happen. How long had Rhylance been planning this?
Once they were seated, Lucine glanced up at the vast canopy of stars overhead, reflected by the twinkling lights of the city below. She smiled faintly. “This reminds me of our first date.”
<@206692046424113152>
Rhylance agreed with her sentiment, pondering for a moment before stating his reply.
“A far better experience, that, than the speed dating fiasco you convinced me to attend.”
He have the redhead a rare chuckle and grin. Before her too looked to the stars. After a few moments he took Lucines hand and pointed to the sky.
“I wanted to be here on this night because if you look at the sky, you would see a constellation known as Illaryia’s Ring. It is a a series of brightly glowing stars in a circular design. The story goes that in an ancient time a world was divided. Great battles for superiority nearly les to the planets destruction. That is, until a woman names Illaryia came forward and was able to convince the chieftains to stand down and cooperates. My guess is she was strong in the Force. After bringing the leaders together a new society was formed, with Illaryia at the head. All the clans brought forth parts of their individual treasures and a ring was forged for their new queen. The ring symbolized a promise of unity, love, and respect for all. And so the constellation was named, with the legend being that any under the lights of those stars would find their lives blessed with love and togetherness.”
Rhylance let his words sink in for a moment before he continued.
“You know me, Lucine. I have never been one to believe in such trivialies and traditions. The idea of a ring representing such devotion and promise has always been such a ridiculous concept. But then again, I never had someone like you in my life to push back on such thoughts.”
Rhylance looked deeply into Lucine’s eyes as he continued to speak.
“I never expected when we met, and fought, in that casino all those years ago that we would end up here. So much has changed, especially of late. The "Old Gods” are gone. We have both achieved great success in our lives. I never thought ai would want, or have this type of feeling or connection with anyone. But here you are, and here I am. So, my dear, tonight I make a proposal of my own.“
Rhylance pulled out a small box and pushed it towards Lucine.
"I am before you today, a man who never understood the desire or appeal of marriage, asking the most beautiful woman in all of the stars to walk this path of unity with me. Lucine Vasano, would you do me the honor or accepting a partnership in marriage?”
<@534224904917352493>
“Ah, but some good came from that fiasco, my love. And not just because we cleansed the gene pool of some filth,” Lucine murmured as she gazed up at the stars.
She raised an eyebrow as Rhylance reaccounted the story of Illaryia’s Ring. He was not one to put much stock in stories, and gradually the realization of where he was going with this set in.
She accepted the box, and looked at the ring. It was a brilliantly cut emerald set with twin sapphires on either side. The three stones were encircled by rows of glittering diamonds. A beautiful piece of jewelry, made even more previous by what in represented.
Marriage. They had talked about it, but his disdain for such traditions had made her think that such a thing would not happen. And yet, here he was. Here they were. And the word he had chosen as part of his proposal seemed particularly apt. Partnership.
She brought a hand up to her mouth as the significance of what was going on sank in. She was so surprised that it did not even occur to her to hide the slight tremble in her hand as she did so.
“Yes,” she breathed. “Yes, of course I accept.”
<@206692046424113152>
Rhylance assisted Lucine I’m placing the ring upon her left hand finger. The exquisite jewelry simmered in starlight. With a smile the Chuss reached into his coat and pulled out a second box.
“This is a present for you, my dear, on such a perfect night. I will tell you what it is, but I do ask you do act on the information until after we’ve had a chance to enjoy our dinner for the night.”
Sliding the box over to his new finace` Rhylance pulled out a small datapad and turned on a holo-vid. The video showed the image a familiar woman and her male suitor.
“I made a second reservation for this restaurant tonight for Arcelia and her new husband. The man had an unfortunate accident that required surgery’ to which I managed to ensure myself his surgeon. I left a small present in his head. A present you now have full control of.”
The Chiss knew Lucine would understand the underlying message, so he remained silent as their food came out.
<@534224904917352493>
Marzy’s skin tingled as Avery slid his ink-covered finger along its smooth surface. She peered down at the markings, her heart warming as she realized the amount of care he was putting into his work. She had seen his writing before and worked tirelessly to translate it, but this time, the words he had written were as clear as day.
The waves of the ocean made for the perfect background noise as she listened to Avery’s thoughts on the matter. She appreciated the praise of her skills, and while she agreed with him, it was always nice to have the outside reassurance that she had so seldomly received throughout her life.
Her brow rose when the man grabbed her hand, not to hold it but to inspect his work as if he were some sort of artist. The Mirialan giggled as he insisted it go up in an art gallery, wondering if he meant his work or herself. She began to lean more towards herself once he brought her hand to his lips and placed a kiss upon her delicate knuckles. Something Avery had managed to do that no other man could begin to attempt was making her feel like royalty.
Marzy accepted the ink jar as their moment ended, bracing her heart for whatever Avery would say next. As much as she loved getting to know the man more, it hurt her heart to listen to how he was hurt by people in the past. It made her angry that those people in her past thought it right to hurt the wonderful man in front of her, and it made her sad that there was nothing Matcha could do to change it. The most she could do now was comfort him and assure him that none of what those people said was true.
Slowly, Matcha reached out and slid her finger along Avery’s abdomen, tracing the word selfish onto his immaculate body. “And have I ever told you that you are so painfully selfless and self-sacrificing that I sometimes wish you’d be a little selfish?” The Mirialan appreciated the compliment, but she was more concerned with their bonding exercise than the sweet nothings she was sure to be showered with after they were done.
Once the word was written, Marzy offered the ink back to the Human. “My next word is…” She sighed, “Slut. I’m pretty sure you can guess why, but some people don’t exactly approve of the amount of men I used to sleep with. I did my best not to care because, at the end of the day, I was just having fun and living my life, but every now and then… it would keep me up at night.”
Lucine held her hand up, watching as the gems sparkled brilliantly in the starlight as he slid it onto her finger. The engagement ring was, of course, a perfect fit. It seemed that Rhylance had thought of anything. She drew him in for a passionate kiss before letting him return to his seat.
She raised an eyebrow when he pushed the small box, a small control mechanism toward her. But the curiosity in her eyes turned cold and predatory when she saw the woman on the screen of the data pad.
Arcelia. The woman who had made it her business to ruin Lucine’s family, and had destroyed her childhood in the process. The woman who had stolen so much from her: her parents, her childhood and her title.
Lucine studied Arcelia with the same predatory interest that a hawk would show a mouse. The frog-faced woman was being led through the restaurants opulent interior on the arm of a disinterested-looking older gentlemen. Her new husband, it seemed. Poor Arcelia had such bad luck with spouses.
“Oh, Rhylance,” Lucine breathed. The smile she gave her new fiancé was just as brilliant and genuine as the one she had given him when he had first proposed. But while the first had been filled with genuine happiness, this one was touched with malice and glee. “You do give me the best presents.”
But a promise was a promise. She carefully set the control unit aside as the waiter emerged with their meals.
<@206692046424113152>
The Human did his best to play off his ticklishness as her finger drifted over his midsection, writing perhaps his least favorite word in the galaxy. One he would never be so quick to toss at anyone. Those were the thoughts his mind occupied while the beautiful Mirialan was touching his skin. “Heh,” he chuckled in reply. “The galaxy doesn’t need more selfishness. Especially not the family I’m from.” Soon, the paint was back in his hand, his chest heaving up as he braced himself for her next word.
“Slut.”
Ouch. The word hung in the air for a moment before she went on to explain. There was still some hesitation from the Human as he decided where to write the slur. He chose her abdomen as well, his finger moving carefully over her skin until his word was complete. He pulled back to admire her and then his mediocre handiwork.
“I’m sorry that was hurled at you unfairly.” His hazel eyes wore a solemn expression as he spoke. “I know that’s not you.”
Though he wasn’t thrilled with the idea of someone else touching her, it was long in the past, and she had given him no reason not to trust her. Their histories were part of why they meshed so well together in the first place. It made them who they were as individuals.
Avery returned the ink to the woman, ready with his next word. “It’s not too different from yours but man-whore. I would agree with that term before. But it still stung. I also slept around with a lot of women before. Sometimes, it was fun; other times, it was pitiful. I used them because I felt used. I lied and made a lot of empty promises and have a sea of regret because of that…” He sighed. “Wasn’t who I truly wanted to be.”
There was much more to the story, but he didn’t want to bore or spook her because he was a father. Details she would know in time if they were going to be serious.
Ink - Diyrian (Single writer/short blurb)
“Aah–…ow.”
Forest green curls scrunched against golden skin and the crimson strap of her tank top as Diyrian shifted to reach down. Her hand clasped around a wrist nearly three times the size of hers, fingers not even attempting the vain effort to circle around the girth of it. She pulled his hand up and away from the liquid film spanning the upper half of her left thigh, partially covered by her shorts ridden up with how she straddled Karran’s lap where they sat near his forge – his project interrupted by her visit. Baby was off taking a roll in the grass and the quiet yips of the hounds playing nearby in the late morning Dajorra sun. The homestead was an odd mix of active with animals and projects as it was a quiet solace and home she’s come to know and miss with half her time spent at the citadel.
“Sorry, just sore. Well,” she shifted and entwined her fingers with his, a chuff leaving her red-orange painted lips, “Not as much as Luka likely is.”
“You seem, concerned?” came the low rumble.
She must have paused afterwards, a flicker of a look that the Zabrak, brutish and malicious as some viewed him when they saw him acting on the grounds of what he felt right, noticed as he did with those he dedicated and gave himself to. Perceptive, him. Diy sighed lightly and moved to wrap her arms both back around the trunk of his neck. Blue-green eyes held brown and white.
She felt a bit self-conscious, remembering how Karran had fallen after losing his arm and helping him come out of that dark place. But he’d worked hard and overcame it, made peace with it, even helped her out of her own struggles. Not that she thought Luka was at a point of an intervention, she just was minding ans maybe a bit concern due to the human having lost a forearm in the Battle of Brimstone. .
“Luka’s fine, they’re doing alright. They just imbibed a bit last night. And Yeo’s a good influence on him.” Yeoni Grivna, her blood cousin – that still felt incredibly weird to say, still adjusting to having known family and large tie to events of her past. “Trying to keep them from cooping up to much, get out a bit. Luka seemed to enjoy last night so…”
They chatted about it a bit more. Diy suggested Karran could talk with Luka, on the account of them having liblmb loss in common. To which Karran said he would if Luka was open to.
After a few minutes, the Diy leaned back and hummed lightly. She tilted her head sideways. “Do you want to see it? The tatt?”
“Of course.”
Throwing her leg over his lab into a side straddle, she propped her foot up on the wooden bench in a way that tilted her hip, showing more of the film and its light brown protective-healing liquid. She swept her palm over it, gently smoothing the liquid to expose glimpses of roses and a chrome blaster pistol, same model as her favorite firearms.
A great improvement from the small heart-shaped Star destroyer that had been there previously. A change through ink…