Session export: Surf's Up: Vacation and Bonfire

Jon sat at a nearby bar, ordering a drink from the droid whose six arms carried multiple different bottles and clear glasses.

“Give me all the bottles of spicebrew you have,” Jon said, pinching the bridge of his nose while leaning against the bar.

“Comin’ up boss!” the droid chirped out in an overly-cheerful, autontuned feminine voice.

“Wait!” Jon said, gripping one of the droid’s half dozen appendages. “I’m concerned that what you just heard was ‘give me a lot of spicebrew.’ What I said was ‘give me all the spicebrew you have.’ Do you understand?”

The droid stared at him impassively for a moment, before nodding slowly. Jon nodded back and settled onto his stool to wait.

“Finally some free time and I am gonna enjoy it.”

Smiling, Salni had arrived and had changed her clothes to suit the warm salty air blowing across her emerald skin. She was wearing a sapphire blue bikini with a matching wrap around skirt and swim cover as well as her blue flip flops and black sunglasses.

She was carrying her bag with suntan lotion, beach towel, chair and checkered beach parasol.

Her golden eyes scanned the beach for an empty place to set up and found a spot not too far away from the bar.

Striding past the bar, she made her way over one of the sand dunes to the beachfront. As she traversed the pristine sand to her destination, she admired the crystal blue waters and the salty sea air.

“This is amazing.”

She then set down her large crimson beach towel with the symbol of her employer, Tashavel. The image was her black dragon family crest. After setting down the towel, she then placed her reclining blue beach chair on top, the large white beach parasol behind the chair, sticking it deep into the sand and opened it.

Satisfied with the set up, she made her way to the bar to grab a drink.

It is…okay for me to be here…right?

Thane couldn’t help the thought from creeping in as he took the first of several steps across the sand. He had an invite, sure, but the idea of hating him was probably the main thing for most. Hating what he symbolized. His arms started to cross his chest, the white fabric of his open shirt gripping his biceps. Already he was preparing to close himself off.

Then warm, sun-kissed fingers lightly touched his pale forearm and stopped him in his tracks.

His black-gold eyes framed by moon-kissed flesh and faint golden veins found Lulaire’s gaze and they each said nothing, but Thane did relent with a tilt of his head and let his arms fall back to his side. She still didn’t know him by way of his, well, official title, but knew him well enough at this point to pick up on his tells. Selfishly, he didn’t want that to change just yet. Turning back, he grabbed hold of the golden trimmed, white surfboard he had brought alongside hers.

“I am a quick study,” he assured his companion. Surfing was…not a thing he had done before. But as co-ordinated as he was, it should be fine, right?

Right?

Sirra wasn’t surpirsed to find a crowd of strangers upon her arrival. She had known Miho long enough to expect her letters to be cast to the ends of the Brotherhood and back, inviting any and all to one of her socials. It had been part of why she had paid the shuttle pilot to settle down several kilometres out, if only to enjoy a trek up the shoreline with little interruption. Approaching the fringes of the beach, she could already feel the hardened emotions of experienced combatants and Force users alike dominating the surroundings. Even so, she was more concerned at the growing excitement of her companion as they approached the bar.

Behave yourself.

The telepathic pulse was more forceful than Sirra had intended, and she felt Mungo’s mind recoiling slightly and his head shook. Nevertheless she knew a reminder was needed. Playful as he was, that didn’t change the fact the Narglatch was a blue furred mass of fangs, quills, and coiled muscle the size of a small speeder. Sirra had seen him previously cannoned through armoured doors through his sheer mass alone and had been found later on using them as a misshapen chew toy. Sirra was in no mood to ruin one of Miho’s socials if he became too rough and tumble with someone, let alone start a clan feud by accidentally assassinating one of their leaders.

If you want to chase the birds or fish after we visit the bar then feel free, but no people or pets. You know the rules.

There was a sunburst of happiness from Mungo’s mind, accompanied by a purr which sounded closer to the growl of a speeder bike’s engine. Sirra adjusted the broad brimmed hat offering her pale skin some shade from the nova bright sunlight, more to hide her smile than any actual need. Padding across the sand dunes, Sirra headed for the bar’s main entrance, occasionally issuing silent reminders to Mungo, keeping him to heel.

Wulfram stretched out in the wooden lounger he had lugged out onto the beach, his assistant droid, Mofie, floating around him and chirping about the local conditions, and its annoyance with sand, while the Mandalorian relaxed, unarmored, in the sea breeze. Sunglasses covering his good eye (and eyepatch) he just chuckled at the whining of the floating bot.

“Look, you could have stayed in my bag or back in the hotel. I didn’t make you accompany me, Mof. Kinda wishing you hadn’t right now.” He said with another chuckle as he pulled a flask from his shorts and slowly twisted the cap on it.

“You’re starting to make me cranky, and considering some of the high profile folks you’ve pointed out to me around the beach, I really don’t need to be in a bad mood if I run into them.” Wulfram shot back at the droid as he took a drag from his flask and capped it again.

She smiled softly to the human as she leaned against the counter of the bar. “Thank you, how very nice. Not really hungry, but a drink would be so very lovely. I think today I will have a Riosa Punch if you please.”

The interior of the Hoplites loading bay rumbled with the sound of maneuvering thrusters and rushing wind. Remy stood alongside Esen at the base of the loading ramp, fidgeting with the duffle bag over her shoulder as the pair waited for the ship to land and open.

She felt naked. Not because of the bathing suit Esen had cajoled her into buying, she usually just swam in her underwear, and nobody seemed to care about that. It was because of the disapproving noises Esen had made when she tried to clip on her weapon belt. It wasn’t like conflict was likely, or even that she was particularly defenseless unarmed, but it still felt just… wrong.

The Hoplite shuddered with impact and shifted slightly, probably due to landing on sand. The ramp began to lower, but the engines didn’t begin to spin down at all.

Remy touched a finger to the comm link in her ear, “are you sure you don’t want to come, Pharn?”

“Nah,” came the reply of the ships pilot, “I know there isn’t much heat on me, but I still don’t like the idea of rubbing shoulders with any big name Brotherhood people. If it’s supposed to be a vacation, I don’t want to be spending it sweating bullets.”

Remy stepped onto the ramp, but stopped when Esen didn’t follow. Turning back, she placed a gentle, yet firm guiding hand on her back and pushed her alongside.

“Come now, this was your idea. It still surprises me how shy you can get sometimes.”

The Hoplite lifted off as the ramp retreated back to the hull, Pharns voice coming over the comms again.

“Alright, I’ll be in low orbit. Call in when your done… ring a few times, I’ll probably be asleep.”

Remy turned to face towards the crowd of people down the beach as the Hoplite flew off, the sand spray settling quickly.

It didn’t take long to traverse the sands, and it was even faster for Remy to levitate the towel and ShadeCaster™ umbrella out of the bag and into an open spot.

“And so, here we are. Any plans?”

<@267489687902486530>

“Do I count as one of those ‘High profile folks’?” A soft voice would suddenly sound from Wulfram’s right side as a short Sephi woman dressed in white beachwear shifted from what seemed like a conch shell several seconds prior.

Her pale copper hair was drawn into a perfect ponytail and the silver jewelry adorning her ears and wrists chimed gently in the breeze. Tired, dark circled crystalline blue eyes stared down at the former Warmaster as she crossed her arms.

“Did you think no one would find you in this corner?”

Sirra paused, looking back across the beach at the noise of engines. She took a few moments to watch a slab-sided transport land just long enough to deposit someone onto the area before launching itself skyward again in a storm of sand particles. A slight smile creased her features as the images of multiple pleasure yachts vying for landing space crossed her mind. Someone was bound to try showboating sooner or later, likely providing the entertainment for the day.

Something large pushed into Sirra’s back and she stumbled forward, looking back at where Mungo had nudged her forward with his head. Sirra ruffled his fur and they continued their trek, crossing the remaining distance to the bar. Sirra had no sooner unfastened Mungo’s saddle, spear still slotted into its holster, than the feline toppled sideways, stretching out on the sand. Sighing, she dropped the saddle next to the feline, silently promising to be back shortly. Stepping inside, Sirra removed her hat and ran a calloused hand through her short brown hair, taking a moment to enjoy the shade before approaching where a mix of beverages were being served.

Could I- She started on instinct, before correcting herself and speaking vocally to a multi-limbed droid. “Corellian brandy please. Any of the blue kind. A full bottle and a bucket of water, chilled.”

She’d never bothered to learn the exact brand after being introduced to it by a friend, just the drink’s place of origin and its distinct colour. Sirra just hoped that the ‘blue kind’ would have to suffice this time.

The Zeltron stood spiraling in her thoughts at the base of the loading ramp. She wore a dark swimsuit cover atop her one piece swimsuit that was nearly a bikini, the only difference between the two were aesthetic straps connecting the top and the bottoms.

Here she stood, mentally kicking herself for not getting different swimwear yet again. It- was a gift from her parents. Something about accenting her body and skin tone… but she never liked bright colors on her. Bright red with white polka dots.

A deep red blush bloomed from her cheeks, but the approach of Rem snapped her out of her thoughts.

She was excited after all. The water, the sand, the birds flying, singing their cacophony of songs.

As the two exited, Esen made sure her swimsuit cover was secured around her body. She lightly grabbed Remalia’s hand, barely any pressure, should she want to pull away.

Her gaze drifted from the ocean, to the umbrella and towel, to the bar.

Esen’s eyes darkened slightly. She wanted a tropical drink consisting of lots of fruits, inside a coconut, with a straw. She would not leave unless it had a drink umbrella.

“You stay here and I get us drinks?”

She took off, marching in the direction of the bar.

Towards the drink umbrellas.

“Will there be anything else, madam?” the posh ‘tender droid leaned over politely as he presented Morgan and Erinyes with their desired drinks. He was a skinny automaton, all cylinder head with sensors poking out and an array of antennae that looked to deliberately simulate a mustache. His blocky body was painted in a shimmer-sheen pearlescent white and gold, as was befitting one of Thran’s machines. His thin legs propelled him with a cordial yet rigid soldier’s march, while lengthy arms easily reached any table length to clean up behind his customers. Now they were used wisely so as not to block the sun for the two Councilors.

“No, J33-V3S,” Morgan replied for both of them as she adjusted her red bathing suit before reaching for her drink — Krean rose wine, an old vintage. “You’re dismissed.” She waved him off as she took a sip. Tacky, slightly sour, bourgeois, but still very light and drinkable, appropriate for the setting. As the droid retreated, on standby to fulfil their every whim, the two women relaxed into their low-profile beach chairs. Not entirely comfortable, but enough to enjoy a nice day at the beach.

Jeeves had found them a good spot, not too far from the local bar, but not so close as to hear the racket. The music was fine, though: Twileki galactic pop mixed with Mon Cala surf core. Strange, but not unpleasant. She leaned back, adjusting her wide-brimmed straw hat to block the sun in her eyes and curling her toes into the hot sand. “Erin, would you mind looking over? See if anyone interesting is at the bar?” The Zeltron blocked Morgan’s view to the bar…intentionally, she assumed, though she didn’t mind one bit.

<@645466919415054357>

“You are,” Lulaire agreed. She was pleased to find out that Solyiat had some waves that was shredable. Sometimes winds doesn’t produce good waves for surfing or was too rough.

Before they left, she had to ask Grym to look into the location for her considering that task required using technology.

The salty breeze carried the scent and lingering teasing taste of the ocean on her lips.

“‘Sides, like you’re gonna give up after the first buck?” Lula gently teased with a raised of her eyebrow as her fingers brush back her scarlet-blonde hair into a low ponytail to keep the strands out of the way while she surfs. Then she grabbed her white surfboard that had design of waves with metallic blue inlay and a golden sun on it.

“Come on,” She tilted her head towards the waves as she felt the sand shifted underneath her feet. There was a bit more people here than she thought but there was nothing wrong with that. No one she really recognized (besides Miho) besides passing glances just yet.

The pristine as frack crystal clear warm waters engulfed the pair as they paddle out with Thane following behind. Despite being at the beach, Lulaire was keeping a careful sense of her surroundings, not knowing what may lie in the depths of Solyiant’s waters. Once they got to a good distance and waited for the waves, Lulaire used this opportunity to try to explain the best way in her terms of how to surf.

Even used some farming examples.

And other various examples.

“Oh that looks amazing, thank you so much!” Salni grinned while she took the drink, setting the glass on the outdoor stand after downing it. “So much better!”

She then made her way back onto the sand. Looking out, she watched a rather extremely pale man and Lulaire go by with a surfboard towards the water, she chuckled a bit. “Well I hope they enjoy that water. I might have to watch this.”

She made it back to her spot, saw a Zeltron and a heavily tattooed human lady next to her enjoying some drinks and watching the bar. They actually were not too far from her.

They seem like fun.

Salni then practically beamed as she applied some suntan lotion to her emerald skin. Afterwards, she leaned back against her beach chair and relaxed for a moment under her white parasol. This was perfect, the sea breeze lapping at her skin combined with the cooling shade from her parasol felt so wonderful. Taking her sunglasses, she placed them on her face and looked out at that perfect crystal clear ocean view.

“Just what the doctor ordered.”

“But it’s like… that’s a common name, right?” Jon asked of the bartending droid, with a slight but noticeable slur to his words. By now, his face was flushed and the top three buttons on his shirt were undone, as he leaned on the bar for support. There were several empty bottles of spicebrew stacked neatly next to him, and he was currently pouring the fourth into a shot glass.

“Jon, Jon, Jon! There’s gotta be a million "Jons” on Kiast, right? That Sephi sleemo, he’s got no business accusin’ me! How dare he! Why, if my grandfather were alive, he’d…“ Jon continued on like this, the attentive droid continuing to listen impassively.

“Now, this is my kind of weather,” Arlo announced with a smile as he arrived on the event grounds. He’d already left his sandals at the bar, and was thoroughly enjoying the feeling of hot sand beneath his feet and between his toes. “Hope you don’t mind if I brought my own drink,” he said to a staff member as he passed. True to form, Arlo was carrying an entire keg of Anselmian Spiced Rum on one shoulder. On his other shoulder sat a puffball of mossy beige fur, an amber eyed bogling with a gebtle gradient of light green on its back, ears, and tail.

“Alright, Noodle, why don’t you go and play while I set up the keg?”

The bogling, seemingly understanding him, responded with a lively trill and chirp before hopping to the ground and scampering away, leaving tiny footprints in the sand. It spent the next several minutes hopping up to anyone it could find, occasionally darting between legs in mid stride, before finally hopping up onto the bar countertop to regard its patrons and employees alike with wide, inquisitive eyes.

Arlo, meanwhile, stood the keg up on the sandy ground jot far from where the Mandalorian man and Sephi women were conversing. He regarded them both with a nod and a smile before turning to gaze out into the pristine waves rolling in the distance. “I wonder how much it’d be to build a home out here …‘

<@236356564125089792> <@264959101384130560>

Mei’ka breathed in the fresh scent of salty sea air with a happy sway of her tail. Social events like these weren’t exactly in her wheelhouse, but she wasn’t about to pass up a chance to be at a beach. New beaches meant a chance to add a new shiny shell to her collection. Though seeing the mass of people between her and the water, Mei’ka just had to verify one thing with the little droid floating beside her. “This is the right place, right X-0X?” She asked, looking down at her little companion droid floating quietly beside her.

X-0X confirmed that this fancy party was indeed the correct place to be. Looking down at her simple orange and blue swimsuit. It was nothing fancy, just something practical to wear. Otherwise, she only had a pair of goggles, a blue scarf, and a pair of orange leggings on her feet. “Eh, it will be fine.” She shrugged, taking X-0X gently into her hands so she wouldn’t lose it in the crowd.

“Come on let’s go find some shells.” Mei’ka held X-0X slightly above her head to avoid knocking into anyone as she made her way to the sand.

Rather than objecting, Sirra just shrugged and accepted the beverage. It wasn’t her drink of choice anyway, and worst came to worst she knew one to avoid next time. Sirra took a careful sip of the brandy, shrugged, and then knocked back the glass. The amber liquid carried an oddly oaken flavour to it, at least that’s what she suspected someone better educated in beverages might think. She was ready to pour herself another glass, but opted to heft the bucket of icy liquid off of the bar’s surface first, and lugged it outside.

If the heat gets too much, head off to the ocean. I’ll join you the moment I’m done here. Sirra broadcast, depositing the bucket in front of Mungo. The feline’s response was a loud slurping noise as his head disappeared nose-first into it.

More guests had been arriving, and Sirra took a moment to admire their attires before she headed back inside. Half of them seemed to be in a contest, to see how much skin could be displayed without breaching one of society’s unspoken rules of decency; with a few hiding only the barest of essentials behind garish fabric. That said, Sirra knew she wasn’t in a place to judge. Beneath her loose off-white travelling robes, Sirra’s own swimsuit was a clashing mix of blacks, cyan, and lime greens. It was only the fact it had been a gift, and her usual choice had mysteriously disappeared days prior to the invitation, that she had opted to wear it. As she began downing her second glass of brandy, Sirra wondered if it would just as mysteriously reappear as soon as the event was over.

Quietude.

There was something about the word. It sounded made up, to be frank, but it was something Thane didn’t find often but savored once he did. That was what he was feeling as Lulaire finished her Surfing 101 session all while they bobbed ever so slowly in the shallows.

The Firrerreo gave her his full attention as she had explained the process and he felt ready. Mostly. There was confidence that came from experience elsewhere. Surely his myriad of skills would be transferable. At least, to some extent. He hoped.

Lulaire found the waves first and provided a demonstration. He was an attentive audience. An upward turn tugged at the corner of his lips as he saw the sheer serenity upon the other Firrerreo’s face before she was quickly pulled away by the roiling surge, hopping to her feet and taking command of her board.

How dare she make it look so easy.

Right, he could do this. The Deputy Grand Master of the Brotherhood wouldn’t be bested by, of all things, water.

Maybe a little bested, it turned out.

As far as first attempts go, Thane could have done worse. Picking a wave, he worked his legs under the surface to turn the board around, positioning to catch the surge. He worked his arms, building up speed and feeling himself wise up. So far so good. All he had to do was find his legs. Gripping the board, Thane kipped up a touch and got his feet under him before transitioning to a low stance. This is where things deviated. Went off script. Not according to plan. Thane’s balance was broken by an awkward wobble and he found himself face planting onto the board and gripping onto it.

What should’ve been a low crouch ended up with the pale Firrerreo in a full plank and riding the board as such all the way to shore and a companion who was—to her credit—trying to stifle a laugh.

Thane narrowed his eyes playfully at Lulaire before declaring his intent. “Another,” he growled out.

Second time was the best time.

Unlike before, Thane managed to find his feet and found himself bouncing along the upper swell of the wave. So too did he find himself picking up speed. Working his knees back and forth, his gaze flit to the side where the wave began to curl in upon itself and formed a pipe. He had seen Lulaire take that path. He might as well too. A shift at the core (tighten the abs!) and a gentle lean steered him in. Thane couldn’t help but reach out with his fingers as the quiet fell upon him. All he could hear was the rush of the water surrounding him and his focus narrowed into a single point as the warm liquid passed across his fingertips.

It was a single moment stretched over eternity…and then it was over.

With a yip of excitement, Thane pushed forward and crashed through the pipe just as it began to collapse, skidding onto shore.

“Well, there’s a lovely Falleen approaching our general direction,” Erinyes began after peeking towards where more drinks were. “And a young man who, last time I met him, bought a jug of your rum and called me his hero. Do either of those count?”

“I think that one counts a bit more,” Morgan’s tone betrayed amusement as she lightly drew Erin’s attention towards the surf. Darth Renatus was fumbling around on a surfboard. An intriguing sight to say the least. Morgan imagined someone like Jac Cotelin or Telaris Cantor doing the same and made herself chuckle. “I have never seen him so clumsy and yet so determined.”

Remy nodded, silently. As she watched Esen go, she felt something akin to pre-battle jitters in her chest. Was that anxiety? Nervousness? Was there a difference, really? Ultimately, it was some form of concern about the serious look on Esens face, the way she almost stomped across the beach. A vacation was supposed to be relaxing, so if she wasn’t relaxed, what was the point?

Meditation would solve this, at least in part. Remy sat on the towel, partially in the sun, partially in the shade. The contrast of heat and cool made focus trivial, and she extended her mind into the Force. She didn’t search for anything, she just watched the world through the sixth Sense and let it push down the small twist in her chest. If she was at peace, eventually Esen would follow suit. And even if she didn’t, it was just a beach day, no harm would come of it.

And of course the alchohol would help. Only a sparse few moments of introspection and she already came to an epiphany, a practical use of a recreational drug. If all else failed, she could just get Esen absolutely hammered and call in to her work tomarrow.

This mission would be easy.

Erinyes sat up, leaned forward, and squinted. It really was Renatus. On a surfboard.

“Wow. That’s the second most ridiculous thing I’ve ever seen him do. I wonder if he’s finally loosening up.”

“Oh no, he’s wound tight as a spring.” Morgan leaned back and glimpsed at the bar over Erin’s shoulder to inspect goings-on. She figured they’d have to join the festivities soon enough. Might as well do it when something interesting happens. Finally she turned back to the surf and sipped on her wine. “He’ll figure it out somehow. Probably through spite but I wouldn’t put some enjoyment past him. He does seem to enjoy it…a bit.”

“You should’ve seen him in the tonitran rider costume that one Harvestide.”

To which Erinyes pulled out a datapad and loaded an image titled “Deputy Grand Raptor”. It was of Renatus in half of a dinosaur costume with legs sewn on the outside, meant to make the wearer look as though they were a cowboy riding an orbak, but on a raptor. Matched with Renatus’ usual sombre expression, the image set Erinyes to giggling as much as when she’d first seen him.

The drinks helped, of course.

Morgan laughed. Loudly. It took her a moment to compose herself. “I think I saw that in one of those cheap shops where you get festival costumes? Yeah, it was printed on the kids version.”

Sirra had the distinct feeling now that brandy wasn’t supposed to be taken in shots. It had been accompanied by a feeling of inner warmth and an undeniable sense of mild vertigo. Leaning against the bar, she had already taken to sipping the beverage rather than consuming it with the same vigour as before, but it didn’t seem to help. Not that she wasn’t enjoying it.

Setting the glass down, Sirra took a look back at the waves rolling inward, quietly hoping she would be in a state to still go into the water even if she had to force herself to sober up first. The stray thoughts took hold and, in a moment of laxity, were telepathically flung out through the Force. Several people nearby were given a moment of confusion as thoughts of running their heads under ice cold water and images of sea animals abruptly forced their way into their psyches.

The Jedi sat on her board as it floated by the shallow shore as she watched Thane as they went for a second attempt. Her eyes gazed over to his fingertips as they brush at the water and she knew the feeling all too well.

The small moments like that was important. The stillness, quiet, gentle embrace of the warm water before it becomes a roaring crash and topple you over.

Followed by a triumph whoop, Lulaire was by his side as her board floated beside her. She watched him hopped off and stumbled a bit into the shallow waters.

“See?” Lulaire grinned as she stood on her tip toes and quickly pecked him on the lips.

“You got the abs for it.” She winked and then tilted her head towards the bar. “Another or you wanna grab a drink?”

“Oh, now this is news to me!” Morgan whispered like an old lady sharing gossip as her eyes followed the lively couple out in the surf.

“I had no idea! Aren’t they just precious? I am gonna give him so much crap for this.” She chuckled as she turned to Erin. “Did you know?”

<@645466919415054357>

“You barely register as an annoyance, Nildea. Between the booze, the mandatory anger management, and somehow associating yourself with the Temple, despite proclaiming no personal ties to them, you’re contrasting yourself as both princess and pauper and wooof, I bet your parents are prooooouuuuud to see where their fine Sephi heritage is going.” The Mandalorian shot as the woman fueled by sarcasm, spite, and spirits approached him seemingly from nowhere.

Great, now they can morph out of sea-shells? One more thing to watch out for. He quietly thought to himself as he kept his ever-present guard up around the woman, dampening any use of The Force in his presence.

“I don’t really care if anyone found me, just hoped you’d keep yourself out of the sunlight long enough to let me have some peace and quiet. Guess that plan’s shot to shit. At least some of my kids are out here in peace, though.” The Mando said with a shrug as he overheard someone question buying some real-estate.

“Kid, I’d be careful even saying you’ve got the possibility of buying property out here. Might have to deal with some Real Estate Magnate’s Kid deciding she doesn’t want you spoiling the view and buying the land out from under you, just so she can put a ‘Weenie Hut Junior’ that’s barely a Hutt tall in it’s place, selling enough alcohol to drown a Bantha, at a premium, out of spite.”

-# <@1056685516441006091>

After about an hour of tanning in the sun, Salni stretched out her sunkissed legs and sat up. Over yonder was the Zeltron and Human gossiping about the pale man out surfing.

“So he’s part of the Dark Council, interesting.” She arced an eyebrow as her attention then turned to the bar and the countertop. A rather strange creature she hadn’t quite seen before was sort of dancing about on the counter.

“Odd, but quite fascinating and kind of cute.” She then felt this sudden urge to go over and pet the cute animal. Getting up out of her chair, the Shani then shook her head making her rainbow colored feathered hair wave about in the wind. The happy mercenary then sauntered over to the bar again towards the fascinating creature. She wasn’t sure what kind of critter they were, but all the same she still wanted to pet it.

She saw some peanuts on the bar and grabbed a few. couldn’t hurt to offer it some food, right?” Carefully and quietly she approached the creature, holding out her hand with the peanuts.

“Here little one, I have something for you.”

Noodle, who had been idly watching each person at the countertop, responded to the sound of Salni’s voice with a lilting chirrup. It cocked its head to the side much farther than a typical member of its species normally could, much more like an owl, appraising the shani as much as the treat she offered. Its amber-gold eyes seemingly lit up at her words as if it understood beyond mere animalistic recognition of the “i have something for you” posture.

Then, without another moment of deliberation, it hopped forward on its little stick legs and extended its hands to scoop up the peanuts the stranger offered, quickly gobbling them down. Its ears, beige and tipped with light green like the color of mossy, fluttered happily as it ate. And as quickly as it had eaten them, it fixed its gaE back on Salni, staring with an expectant look.

She smiled gleefully and then grabbed the entire bowl of peanuts off the countertop.

“I like you, a lot smarter than most.” She nodded as she put the bowl down in front of her. “I wish I knew your name. I am Salni, Nice to meet you.”

Sirra watched the events down the bar playing out. Having opted to halt her rapid consumption of brandy at merely half the bottle, she had been casually rolling the glass between her hands when the new arrival with a full colour spectrum of hair had arrived. She didn’t recognise the woman’s species, or even that of the dark eyed creature she had begun offering nuts by the fist full. Sirra considered letting events play out but, either through a simple desire to talk or a confidence borne of brandy, she spoke up.

“Would you like to?” Sirra asked, forcing down her dislike of spoken words. “Know his name?”

She smiled at the small creature and pulsed a telepathic “Hello there” along with a slight wave.

<@1385116824814878940> <@1056685516441006091>

She smiled at Sirra as she flung back her brightly colored long hair behind her.

“That would be lovely. Also wouldn’t mind knowing yours either. Only if you want to of course. I am Salni. Never even actually seen a creature like this one before.”

“Sirra,” she smiled and gave a nod to Salni. “And I’ve not seen one like him either. He seems like you though, or at least your food.”

Sirra’s brow creased as she concentrated slightly, forming a mental connection with the creature as she had so many others many times before. “Your new friend would like to know your name. She’ll keep giving you nuts if you tell her what others call you.” The message was more subconscious meaning than spoken word, using implication where language fell short. “I can tell her if you would like.”

<@1385116824814878940> <@1056685516441006091>

Reiden made his way along the path. He was glad to have made sure to wear the appropriate clothing. The heat from the sun and the feeling of the sand underfoot as he walked felt good. He hadn’t realized how much he had missed the beach until he arrived, and he knew he was in need of a little relaxation again. So, when Miho had sent out an invitation, he was only too happy to accept.

On the other hand, he was from the Imperial-leaning Scholae Palatinae - despite not being one himself, which he was quick to point out to anyone that tried to suggest it - and now in Odan-Urr space. Usually that would be problematic, to say the least. But he had an invitation and he could always pull out a couple more names if he had to. He had met two other Odanites while on an Envoy Corps mission previously and they had parted on good terms. Thankfully, the invitation and mentioning Miho by name was all that was needed.

The crashing of waves filled his ears, as did the sound of assorted conversations. Birdcalls sounded overhead. There was even the occasional breeze. He breached the dune and took in the sights. Crystalline waters and pristine sand stretched out before him. There was even a bar nearby. In that instant, taking it all in, he was even more sure that he had made the right decision.

The little creature tilted its head farther still when the telepathic link was established. Its presence in the Force was … unusual. Vaguely familiar yet strange, like looking at one’s face through the eyes of another.

From the clamor of scattered thoughts and fleeting sensations, something much more refined, more focused, rose in response to Sirra’s inquiry. Not a voice, but a single word that arose in her own mind in her own voice:

“Noodle.”

Then, the little Bogling’s attention returned to Salni and the peanuts, which it began to munch on again before giving her hand a gentle boop with its head.

<@1385116824814878940>

Delighted, Salni gently pet the creature’s head with her hand, feeling the soft fur. “I might have to get some more peanuts from the bar.” She then laughed. “ And perhaps get myself a sweet amazing animal like you. You know never had any animal companions such as you before, but I think that may change.” She replied as she continued to pet and watch the little bogling with her golden eyes.

Watching Salni, Sirra released the subtle telepathic link which had connected her mind with Noodle’s psyche. It had been enough to offer a short translation of the animal’s more instinctual consciousness.

“Be sure to proof your ship if you do,” Sirra commented. She offered a short memory to Salni, detailing a hunt through a cargo freighter in search of a pet avian which had disappeared into the air vents. “The small ones can get anywhere.”

<@1385116824814878940> <@1056685516441006091>

As if on cue, the light green tips of the bogling’s ears poked up from over Sirra’s shoulder just before Noodle gripped tight to hoist itself up with its little arms.

Thane’s ears were burning and he fought back a sneeze. Something at the back of his mind was convinced someone, somewhere, was talking about him.

Instead of dwelling on it, he eyed Lulaire before looking back out to the water. “You should ride more. Not many waves at the farm.”

The Firrerreo slipped from his board and adjusted his open shirt so it wasn’t flapping and twisted behind him. “I will acquire drinks.”

“Ah~ What a lovely day.” Meero happily stretched as he and Asani walked together across the beach. Feeling the warm sand on his feet and the salty sea breeze caressing his white fur. “We definitely needed a moment like this. I know you especially needed the time off, my star.” He smiled and held Asani’s hand as they continued.

<@142850390738731009>

“You can say that again, we definitely needed the get away from all the crazy, and maybe a little bit from the responsibilities too…thank you for talking me into taking some time to relax.” Asani replied smiling, she began chuckling while gently pulling Meero toward the water, splashing him a bit while giggling. “I’m not exactly sure if we should put on any protectors or do you think just a pair of hats would be enough to keep us covered?” she asked, her tone cheerful while she surveyed the area, making sure that their seating arrangements were close by. “Think we could get away with pranking someone while were here?” She asked eyes full of mischief as she scanned the beach for possible victims.

“Hey!” The little lagomorph chuckled as Asani splashed him with water. “I think our fur has us uh… covered from the sun. So we’re good.” He could see the mischief in her eyes as she scanned the area for potential pranking targets. The gears in her head already turning, like a predator stalking and planning the downfall of its prey. “Hm… we might. Hehe. You’re a terrible influence. You know that, right?”

Meero wouldn’t normally pull pranks on people, but spending so much time with Asani and the Brotherhood has helped him loosen up and slowly break out of his shell. So he was willing to play along. Especially because he knows it makes her happy and there’s nothing he wouldn’t do for that smile.

“So any ideas?”

“I’m not the one with the food! Sirra telepathically protested, but a slight grin betrayed her amusement at Noodle. Stretching out one arm to allow him an easier perch, she scooped up a few more nuts and handed them over to him. "Are you here on your own or did you come with someone else?”

“Well, that ain’t wrong,” Lula nodded as she turned and grabbed the board that was floating behind her, it didn’t get whisked away from the waves due to the ankle strap she had on.

Sure, they had some waves but it was a ride to get there and sometimes she doesn’t have time. Though when she does, she always loved to take a few of her companions and the Lord Thane, if he was home.

“I’ll see you soon then!”

Mei’ka had waded a good bit into the water now. Hunting down a particularly pink seashell. X-0X diligently floating behind her. The water, only about knee deep to the nearly seven-foot tall Selonian, felt cool against her sun warm fur. As a small wave rolled by her, Mei’ka reached down submerging herself into the water to grab the seashell before it was hauled back out to sea. Popping back out of the water, Mei’ka held the shell up X-0X. Splashing the little droid in the process, Mei’ka earned some aggressive chirping. “Got it!” She said happily, showing the now miffed droid her shiny pink prize.

Thane nodded, his gaze lingering as Lulaire began to head back out. Instead of any sort of out of character displays, the man fell back upon something he had started doing entirely by accident but had became a sort of ritual between them.

He began to concentrate, pulling on the bottomless depths of his cavernous core. That endless, dark ocean. Immediately, an icy fire creeped through him despite the warmth of the water where he stood. His thoughts and feelings solidified and an unseen hand knocked at Lulaire’s mind. Being let in, his telepathy conveyed his emotions in a way he never could outwardly.

This way she could know he felt the comfort of hearth and home.

And then he relaxed and the sensations passed. Thane strode (awkwardly as none could march through water with actual grace without cheat codes) out of the water and onto the sandy beach once more. His golden gaze scanned the growing crowd even as he made it to the bar where he placed an order for a pitcher of a local brew. Something with stone fruits based on the description.

Salni grinned at noodle before she turned to the bar staff.

“Could I get a Tatooine Sunrise please?”

Looking back toward the door, Sirra considered her options. She still had some time before the sun set, but it was running increasingly short. She could always come back, and Mungo had been patient with her. Sirra could feel his presence lurking just beyond the bar’s walls.

“I’ll be back later on,” she pulsed to Noodle, setting him back down on the bar. “It was nice to meet you.”

Opting to leave the brandy where it was - and knowing someone would certainly finish it off - Sirra ventured back outside. Mungo had been enjoying the sun, having rolled onto his side in a ditch he had half-dug for himself. It took little prompting for him to roll back over and pay attention; his hunting instincts taking hold once more.

“Don’t worry, we’ll get something. I can promise you that,” Sirra promised him, unbuttoning her robes. She stuffed them along with her boots and hat into one of the feline’s saddle bags. She stretched, adjusting the wetsuit she had been wearing under her clothing before taking up the spear she had left outside. “Ready.”

The thought had barely passed between them before Mungo took off, galloping across the sand, and forcing Sirra to sprint after him. It took them only a short time to reach the waters, the narglatch diving into the shallows in an eruption of white spray. Raising her spear, Sirra followed behind him, already sensing some of the larger fish some way out from them.

She leaned on the counter as she enjoyed the nice warm sunlight on her green skin.

Drink in hand, she sipped it slowly and smiled while she observed Sirra take off towards the water to spearfish.

“Indeed this is a lovely day.” Her eyes shifted now looking across the sand and saw a tall Selonian female holding up a beautiful pink seashell.

She was mystified a bit and smiled. It was nice to see other races she had never met before. All brought together with an invitation. She felt happy.

“Me? Nooo Im a harmless little eopie I would never do anything.” she replied with a faux innocent look on her face, that mischevious glint in her eyes shining like a beacon.

“Cant really think of anything yet…lets go to the bar maybe inspiration will strike while we enjoy something nice.” she stated leading the duo away toward the bar area, which seemed to have a variety of patrons enjoying drinks at the moment.

Perhaps an easy target would make itself known to the little duo.

“Ha! A Nexu is harmless compared to you.” Meero replied with a chuckle as Asani led him to the bar. Once there, the little lagomorphs hopped on two seats and looked for any available bar staff.

“Excuse me!” Meero raised his hand and waved it to be noticed, but gently enough to not be a bother. “Could we have two glasses of Meiloorun Juice, please?”

After finishing up her drink, Salni grinned as she gazed out at that perfect sand. “Think I am gonna make some sand art.” She giggled as she made her way out to the beautiful sands closer toward the water.

Minutes passed, the time filled by the noise of crashing waves and laughter of those on the beach. To Sirra, already some way out from the shore, the nose was caught in moments as she surfaced. Their thoughts made up for it and she could already pick out a few spikes of euphoria from among the milling visitors, with most spilling out across the sand. Yet most of her attention was on the area below her.

Eyes closed against the rush of saltwater as she plunged down once more. Sight at that moment was a distraction, and it would offer little benefit against the thing she was seeking. Sirra reached out and homed in on one particularly alien set of instincts she had felt earlier; an unyielding hunger which cut through all other thoughts. She felt trailing sand brush against her skin, recently kicked up in some motion, and drifting just above the dunes. Then the seabed exploded up, a geyser of sand particles hurtling up through the waves. Within it lunged something with wide mandibles and clamp-like grasping claws. Sirra lunged into the attack, spear outstretched as she stabbed into the onrushing crustacean. Mandalorian iron easily split the chitin of its shell and the soft meat beneath, stabbing through its open maw. Surprise, agony, and something which might have been rage cut through its hunger before it shuddered and became still.

It took Sirra some time to lug the thing - a form of lobster she had never properly learned the name of - back to land. A young one and clearly the runt of its littler, it was merely a head shorter than her and almost as heavy. Enough meat for a barbecue at least, so long as no one had seconds.

Spluttering and struggling under the weight of her kill, Sirra only caught sight of Mungo as she dragged herself back onto the wet sand. The feline was resting in the waves next to a eighteen meter long eel of some kind, happily chewing on a bloody hunk of meat.

“Show off,” Sirra snorted with laughter.

“I want a large fruity drink of some sort. Big enough for two people. please. Add some co’co nut water. D-does it come with a drink umbrella? Two lightsaber straws as well please.”

The Zeltron pondered if she should have ordered a non alcoholic version they did just get here after all. Going into the water could be dangerous if too tipsy.

“C-can I also get a chili lime mocktail? And a bag of those spicy chips. Thank you.”

Thane may have been standing perfectly still, but on the inside he was humming a victory diddy about the pitcher of alcohol being poured for him. Upon receiving it and a few not-so-breakable glasses, the Firrerreon took hold and sauntered back to the beach itself. He made sure to find a less crowded spot and claimed the chairs therein as his domain.

He wasted no time looking over his kingdom and then straddling a lounger, claiming it as his seat whilst pouring a healthy serving of the beverage. Thane took short, measured sips as he tried his best at relaxing while observing Lulaire take to the surf.

Esen paid the tab, grateful for the speedy service, she took the tray with a smile and a polite “Thank you.”

Drink umbrella secured.

She turned towards the beach where her Remy sat.

She approached steadily as her feet gripped onto the sand for traction, slightly sinking, yet her core remained taut and firm.

She gently sat the tray down onto the outstretched towel.

“A drink for us, but if you aren’t up for alcohol today, there’s a chili lime mocktail. Oh and some spicy chips things for you.”

She secured a spot on the towel, after brushing herself off of any stray sand, she looked out towards the ocean just a few yards away. The gentle sound as the waves gently crashed with the shore, before going back out in small waves. She missed this. The soothing. The fresh air. It made it better than she could ever remember having Remalia here. Alive and well.

<@147021450706944000>

Remys eyes opened as Esen sat beside her, “Thank you. I don’t mind alcohol, I have learned to suppress its effects in times of need.”

She paused to take a drink from the large glass, then glanced over at the other. She didn’t like to use the Force to read Esen. It wasn’t that she considered it a breach of privacy or inhumane, but Esen considered her own natural ability to affect emotions as such, so Remy restrained herself out of respect for that.

“Something seems… not wrong, but distressing with you. Are you okay? Did you eat something disagreeable last night?”

Lulaire’s hand extended as her fingertips gently felt the warm surface of the water while the wave wraps around in threat to pull her under. Lula grinned as she knew that there wasn’t enough time for her escape from the roaring grip of the ocean.

And under she went. Many would fight to get to the surface but not her. Instead, she rolled and settled, she felt the pull of the ocean as it formed another wave and helped her direct to where the surface would be.

A soft exhale went through her nose as she broke through the surface and placed her arms on the surfboard. She can see Thane just sat down with drinks at the ready. A playful squint from her orange hues at the glasses and back to Thane’s golden hues before she pulled herself up back on the board and made her way towards the shallow waters. The Jedi leaned down and removed the wrist band as she placed her surfboard by the chair and sat down.

Her eyebrow rose in amusement at the fruity drink. She never really liked them but she was also the person to try anything once.

She took a sip and smack her lips. She glanced around and realized there wasn’t really anyone here she really knows. Aside from Thane and still learning about Miho. Then she recognized some from her bonfire, especially the smores bringing woman.

The kids were obsessive about smores for weeks.

Some still were.

“Do ya know anyone here?” Lula inquired as she brought the glass up to her nose and sniffed at it, wondering if she would like it.

The scent of grilled fish drifted up the beach as Sirra set to work stoking the fires. Finding driftwood had proven remarkably easy amid the surf, as had hacking the claws free of her dead catch. Save for some brief resistance by Mungo to give up at least some of his prize, Sirra had been able to clean the chunks of meat and set up a makeshift spit within a handful of minutes. Skewered upon her spear and propped up by two of the longer branches she had found, a small pit of burning tinder was steadily roasting their catches. Concentrating, Sirra worked the Force to turn the hot metal of the spear, rotating it slowly over the fire with telekinetic power.

It was true there was no shortage of food to be found at the bar, and more drink than could ever be asked for. Yet at the same time there was nothing quite like eating a kill you had found and hunted for yourself.

She opened her eyes to peered at Remalia from the side.

“I’ve come to appreciate the little things in life. The quiet moments. Not everything needs to be faced paced research.”

She still wasn’t over her best friend’s disappearance, she likely never would. Though, she did get into the swing of things checking in with Rem, and enjoying the time they shared.

“Perhaps I am greedy. I seem to take and enjoy as much time as I can with your free schedule.”

She closed her eyes again, leaning back. The warmth in the air, the call of the Gulls in the air. Just serene.

“Everything okay with you?”

There was silence for a moment as Remy considered, staring off into the waves.

“I am directionless. When you are not being… greedy, I simply train. Fight. I am alone, sparring with soldiers that cannot challenge me or killing for the Knights. If I was not given these things I would… I don’t know, stare at a wall, I suppose. I have too many quiet moments.”

Lifting the larger drink with the Force and taking a long drink, she lowered it almost half empty. It was an open bar, right?

“Do not feel guilty by pulling me around. I know in the past I have been… less than pleasant about such things, but I have had a lot of time to think. Your insistence on not leaving me to my devices is much of the reason I am still alive, I think… thank you for that.”

Remy laid back, opening the bag of chips and lifting them out in complex patterns with her telekinesis. Even now, she couldn’t stop training… but if she stopped, she would be anxious about wasted time. If it was relaxing, would that not be a positive?

“We share the same problem, it seems. If we are the inspiration for the other not running themselves to death, than the pairing just makes sense, yes?”

As the waiter walked up to the lounge chair Korvyn pulled his Envoy sunglasses down a bit. Another bucket full of ice and beer. He could definitely get used to this retirement thing. The waiter took the empty bottles and old bucket away as Korvyn handed some credits for the refill and his trouble.

He was far enough away from the main crowd that it was relatively peaceful with the sound of the waves crashing into the sandy beach louder than the chatter of a busy beach resort. Grabbing another beer he took a long drink and set it on te small table next to him. Now he just needed to decide if he wanted to go for another swim, or just watch the waves and drink.

Socorra stepped onto the sand, the late sun catching the white gleaming through her long hair, stark against her dark complexion. Sith runes etched along her body reflected the light dully, like worn glass. A simple bone-white bikini top crossed her chest, while a black wrap with tassels sat low at her hips, shifting with her stride as she walked barefoot across the warm sand.

Her young son, an older toddler dressed in trunks, kept pace beside her for only a moment before momentum took over. Turhaya shared her coloring in miniature, dark skin and the same white-bright hair already visible through his black curls, as if whatever had caused his mother’s hair to grow in such unnatural locks so long ago had seeped into her very DNA. His eyes were a vivid, inquisitive turquoise blue, balanced between emerald and her pale arctic. He moved constantly, a ball of motion and noise, smaller, faster, and seemingly powered entirely by laughter.

A small, polyhedral-chassis Envoy Corps droid hovered several steps behind them, quiet and patient, its lens tracking the boy’s movements as it recorded. It kept its distance, careful not to intrude, adjusting its angle incrementally as the toddler darted ahead.

The Socorran tailrings, the small desert dragons of the woman’s homeworld, announced themselves before either Human did.

One clung across her shoulders like living jewelry of gold and obsidian, wings flicking as it adjusted happily to the heat. The other two dove freely over the beach, banking low over the surf, chasing each other in wide, playful arcs before climbing again into the breeze. Their chirrs carried faintly over the surf and the nearby crowd.

Socorra slowed, the uncovered pale eye drifting briefly toward the water. She had caught sight of people on boards earlier, and it was still perplexing.

Standing on moving water. No propulsion. No stabilizer. No control surface.

Her brow creased faintly even now.

It should not work. Wave collapse. Board sink. When the equations started to form, she finally set the thought aside, unconvinced but resigned for now.

Behind her, Turi tore free with a delighted shout, sprinting after a flock of native birds that scattered down the shoreline in a riot of wings. Sand sprayed beneath his feet as he chased them, laughing hard enough to nearly trip over himself. The droid shifted course smoothly to keep him in frame.

Socorra followed a half second behind him, not chasing, just tracking, allowing him to run freely all up until he veered inland and toward the beachgoers again.

“Turhaya,” she called, warning threaded through the calm.

Ignored.

He zigzagged between loungers next, recklessly weaving through gaps, feet kicking up grit as he passed close enough to be a nuisance if anyone cared to be annoyed.

The tailrings noticed it immediately. One dove low to follow him, while another banked sharply overhead, tracking him with focus that was more playful than threatening.

Turi’s path narrowed. Once around. Twice. By the third tight circle around figures lounging near the surf, Socorra stopped walking. Her jaw set.

“Ka’resh var,” she cursed in her clipped native tongue.

The Force answered immediately.

The boy lifted off the sand mid-stride, laughter cutting short into delighted surprise as his legs dangled and his momentum vanished. He spun gently in place, suspended upright as if seated in an invisible chair.

“Buir!” he laughed. “I fwy! I fwy!!”

“You are in air jail,” Socorra said evenly as she approached, unhurried. One hand lifted just enough to steady his slow spin, precise and careful. Sand fell from his legs, sprinkling into tiny mounds below.

Nearby, the Envoy droid hovered to a respectful halt, lens steady, recording the moment without commentary.

The tailrings circled nearby, chirring full commentary among themselves as they watched.

Salni, who had been watching the surfers, turned as she heard a shout of a little one and laughter towards the sound. She then saw a youngling bounding around some people near the surf. She grinned softly before watching him suddenly float in the air as two dragons flew around him. She then saw what she presumed to be his mother scolding him.

“Heh, just like me at that age.”

She chuckled as she took another drink of her tattooine sunrise.