Waza woke up early and began preparing a good breakfast for everyone. Waza wanted to have everything set when they woke up. Elyon was first to make her way to the kitchen for coffee. “Good morning Elyon, hope you slept well, coffee is in the pot breakfast will be ready soon.” Mike said.
The second to wake up was Azūmi, but she didn’t get out of bed. She waited for Wenet to wake as she felt like she had to talk with her Kushiban friend before they’d start that day. Wenet had barely said anything to her since yesterday, it was obvious she was angry and Azūmi had a feeling it was about Waza. It wasn’t supposed to be a secret, it wasn’t supposed to be a ‘thing’ at all. They only met a week ago. Yeah, it was fun, but for Waza it seemed to be more than fun. And Azūmi wasn’t even sure if she was ready for that. But that wasn’t the issue now. Her friend was upset about the whole thing, and Azūmi wanted to make things right. So, she waited until Wenet was awake. ~*~
Despite being angry at the Falleen, Wenet had slept wonderful. Having had several dreams about her knight is fancy clothes, the Kushiban had an excellent mood when she finally woke. Joyfully she hopped out of bed and got dressed when she heard Azūmi “Wenet?” looking up she saw Azūmi hanging head over the edge of the top bunk. Her long hair cascaded down like black waterfall. Wenet didn’t respond but just looked at her with a blank expression. “Can we talk?” Azūmi asked.
“I’m rather hungry, I’m gonna have breakfast” was the reply she got. “Wenet!” Azūmi now jumped down before she could leave the room. “I said, I’m going to have breakfast” Wenet repeated but Zoomi did not let go.
With her hands on her hips, Azūmi blocked the door, “Just listen!” she said sternly as she looked down at the Kushiban. “I know your angry at me…that obvious. About Waza, but I don’t understand why. You never showed said anything that made clear your were intrested, besides your into Hawkins. And its mutual” she held up he bright hand, palm up and shrugged. She really didn’t understand what the problem was. “I’m not angry about Waza… I don’t give a kriffing care what you do with him” Wenet replied sharply.
Hearing her swear in anger manner wasn’t something Azūmi used to. “Then why are you angry?” “You really don’t know?” wrinkling her nose, Wenet looked up in surprise. Azūmi shook her head, equally surprised. All this time she thought Wenet was jealous. “I have to go, Vomaar called” Wenet said doing an impression of the Falleen. Now Azūmi was starting to understand. “I knew Vomaar didn’t call.. you left and I thought it was because I upset you” Wenet explained. She paused for a moment to let it sink in. “Instead of leaving, you went to Waza’s.. yeah.. I know.. that cheap perfume kinda lingered when we came over for dinner later.. at first I didn’t even realize it. Not until I started to notice how you were behaving yesterday… like a teenager sneaking around.”* Wenet finally was done with her lecture.
“Teenager?!.. says you! Have you seen how you’ve been behaving?” Azūmi snapped back. “That’s not the point.. you lied about leaving making me feel like I did something wrong.” The Falleen lowred he hands and let out a sigh, she understood how she made Wenet feel, but it was never intentional. “Look, first of all. This wasn’t planned. I left because I felt like I was spoiling you evening. You were clearly embarrassed about the dance thing… on my way out I met Waza and well.. you know.. one thing lead to another and..” “YEAH I get the point.. I don’t need details” Wenet had a disgusted look on her face. “I thought that was that, but then you insisted I’d join you on this trip. and Waza.. well he seems to have a different idea about the whole thing..” she looked at Wenet, who was still having a look of disgust on her face. “you get the idea” Azūmi added and Wenet nodded. “I’m sorry I made you feel the way I did. I never meant to.”
Finally Wenet relaxed when face, she now saw things weren’t the way she assumed they were. “I’m sorry I made you feel like you weren’t wanted.. that dance was just…awkward.”
Azūmi chuckled “It was a bit much wasn’t it..” Wenet nodded and now also smiled. “So are we good? I mean you don’t mind me and Waza? Wherever that’s going?” “Yeah, we’re good.. Just keep those dances in private.” Wenet replied with a smirk. “I promise.. oh… and secondly! My perfume isn’t cheap!” “if you say so.. come let’s have breakfast.” Wenet could smell the food that was being prepared and was actually feeling hungry.
Waza was fully engaged with the cooking when Azumi and Wenet entered the room. Scrambled eggs, fried potatoes, sautéed berries, and a fruit plate were already on the table steaming hot and ready. Cups lined the counter for anyone who wanted coffee, Stack of plates and sporks on the table.
The entertainment vid screen was playing the local news and info of the day’s festival activities, mostly background noise at this point.
“Do you all think we’ll run into the others from the clan today?” Waza asked over his shoulder. “I’m excited about the Governor’s fancy dress ball tonight.”
Waza brought another platter of steaming meats and sausages to the table. “Nothing formal for breakfast; dig in when you’re ready to eat.”
Waza sat down next to Azumi, “Im glad you made the trip with us; when we are done eating did you all want to go watch the prelim races for the classic race?”
Azumi and Wenet looked at each other and giggled like school girls with a secret.
“You two go have fun, I think I’ll stick around and wait for Ryan to make his way in here.” Wenet said between bites of the berries and fruits. “Old man you can cook, I’m gonna need an exercise program if you keep feeding me.”
Everyone laughed and enjoyed the time at breakfast.
“Old man,” Azumi said.
“You too going to keep calling me that huh?” Waza joked.
“Yeah it fits. Lets go gets some good seats for this race. You got good connections for good seats?”
“Yeah I do, I’ll get some set up.”
“I’m going to go get ready, you’re going to show me off today.” Azumi said and headed out to the extra room to get dressed and ready for the day.
Waza emerged from his quarters and went to the common area to wait for Azumi to finish getting ready. While he waited he opened his data pad and made contact with his contacts on Tattooine to check for decent seats for the race today. After several minutes of negotiations Waza has secured a privet booth with temperature control.
Waza heard her walking down the hall before he saw her. Wearing a royal blue and accentuated with green and white form fitting shirt and pants outfit with boots. A waist jacket to complete the outfit.
Waza had not realized Wenet had approached until she reached up and closed his mouth.
“Stop it your about to drool.” Wenet teased him.
“Uhm Uhm I wasn’t drooling,,, I have us some good seats in a privet booth whenever your ready.”
Azumi spun on her heels swinging her ponytail in rhythm with her hips. “Ok let’s go, old man.”
Waza tries to maintain his composure and catch up at the same time.
Wenet rolled her eyes at Waza and Azūmi. She and her friend were ‘ok’ now but it was still awkward to see how they acted around each other. Waza was so different from the kind of guys Zoomi usually attached with her pheromones, but she seemed happy.
“Have fun, maybe we’ll join you later” Wenet said as she watched them make their way to the exit. For a while she stood there at the top of the ramp watching them disappear in the distance..
“good morning” she heard the familiar voice of Ryan behind her. Her little heart skipped a beat and she quickly around. “Morning” she said with a bright smile “hope you slept well.” “I did, I woke quite early. Been meditating, but must have lost track of time” Hawkins replied as he looked at the beaming Kushiban. “that’s alright, we still have a full day ahead of us.. Waza and Zoomi went ahead, to watch the race. Elyon was having breakfast, no idea what happened to her husband.. OzLow said he walked off into the dune sea” she shrugged her shoulders.. “so what you wanna do? After breakfast ofcourse” Wenet let out a soft and slightly nervous giggle.
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Meanwhile, Waza and Zoomi made their way through the bustling streets of Mos Espa. Following the crowd as most were already making their way to the Grand Arena to get the best seats.
Waza worried he would lose Azūmi in the crowds she took her hand. Zoomi responded surprised, it was obvious she had never really holded hands with her. Waza pulled her closer to be able to wrap his arm around her, “don’t want to lose you” he admitted. “I’m kinda hard to miss, even in this crowd” she replied with a wink. “true” Waza felt a little flustered but he could use the local weather as an excuse.
<@284910376007761925>
Azumi and Waza arrived just before the green flag. Twelve racers were on the start line and ready to go. The crowd favorite Bajougie was on the pole position and was the odds on favorite to win the Classic this year.
“So I take it you and Wenet had a talk and she gave her blessing for us to not hide what we have?” Waza asked.
“That isn’t exactly how that went but we are ok, just don’t push Like we talked about. I think Shobazz will take out Bajougie in this race. They have had a lot of drama the past couple of weeks.”
The countdown started and the buzzer sounded, The drivers gunned their engines roaring off into the distance. Azumin and Waza turned their attention the display on the wall to watch them run the Beggars Canyon leg of the race. Waza orders some food and drinks for them to enjoy.
Waza and Azūmi watched the race from the private booth he managed to secure. It had a great view and even better service.
“oh, I need to see this from the balcony” Azūmi said as they saw the top three were on the final stretch to the finish line. Zoomi jumped up from her seat and walked to the balcony. Holding her drink in one hand she leaned over the railing. “I can see them coming.. hurry” she motioned to Waza, who joined her.
Bajougie wasim lead, closely followed by Shobazz. But the third, a new racer named ‘Pentax Vampers’ was closing in.. “look look!” Azūmi’s eyes sparkled in excitement. Shobazz was closing in but Bajougie didn’t let them pass. Shobazz made it look like he was going to pass through the left but at the last moment he swayed right. ‘Yeah, I told you so!“ Zoomi said. "The race isn’t over yet.. look at that Pentax guy.. hes gonna try pass Bajougie aswell.”* Waza pointed out and indeed te new guy managed to pass.
Shobazz was in lead, followed by Pentax. They were speeding up for the final stretch. Bajougie was getting behind.. “no.. no..” Azūmi’s eyes widened as Pentax was trying to pass Shobazz. They were next to each other, making way to the finish… “Come on Shobazz! I made a bet on you! You better be winning!!”
Zoooooooooom, zooommmm…….. Zooommmm
“who won?” Azūmi asked as the first three passed the finish.. on the large view screen they saw the slomo of Shobazz and Pentax making the finish line..
“Congrats, your guy won!” waza said with a smile to Zoomi who was beaming..
Waza was pleased to see Azumi so happy; she must have made a decent bet on her racer to win. With the people flowing out of the stadium Azumi and Waza joined the throng of people.
“We have almost 3 hours before the Governor’s Fancy ball this evening, how much time do you think you need to get ready? Ya think one more go around on the blaster game? I have to redeem myself on that.” Waza said.
Hooking her arm through his elbow she leans her head on his shoulder “Prepare to lose again old man. Let’s go do that before we head back to the Skull.”
Ryan seemed far more interested in conversing with Wenet than the race though he seemed to enjoy the atmosphere of being around others and trying to learn more about Wenet. He clearly found her intriguing and did his utmost to make up for not fighting yesterday. He found it difficult to convey how actual violence, even when necessary, could put one off of sporting violence when it took place so soon after. Besides an arm that would need a cast, thankfully he had not permanently injured the individual who had tried to murder him.
He also tried to dance a fine line of not being too protective, but also showing that he cared for those around him. It could be a dance to be both naturally protective but also be surrounded by capable people and respecting those capabilities.
Waza and Azumi returned to the skull with a new large stuffed bantha with Azumi proclaiming to all “Your Jedi old man can’t shoot better than the Stormtroopers of old, hahaha”
“That’s not my fault those kids tried to keep me distracted.” Waza proclaimed in his defense.
“Ok but what about the other four matches when I smoked you too?” Azumi teased. “I wanted you to have the biggest Bantha on the shelf.” Waza laughed.
“Let’s get ready for the big event.” Azumi said.
Wenet and Ryan did go to the race, mainly because Wenet really wanted to go. It was her first time to witness the Boonta Eve Classic, she was overjoyed and being there with Ryan only made it better. However, due to the crowd they never made it to the private booth Waza had arranged. With their tickets they still got decent seats to watch the race. Just in time, they saw the start sign and the podracers got off.
Unfortunately for Hawkins, during the race they didn’t get much opportunity to talk. The noise of the crowd was to much to have a decent conversation. He still was happy to be there with Wenet, seeing her smile warmed his heart. ~*~
“That was amazing!” Wenet said after the race,“that new racer was unexpected. Second place.. and Bajougie ha! He definitely didn’t see that coming!” Wenet was still super excited, her fur was brighter than ever. Ryan hadn’t really watched the game, he watched his companion and couldn’t help but think about the ball later that evening. The ball was more his scene, he wanted to impress her and hoped to get a dance with her although he wasn’t really sure how due to their difference in size.
“Would you like something to drink, before we return to the Skullduggery” he suddenly asked as they followed the crowd out of the arena. “I’d love to” Wenet replied with a bright smile. She too was looking forward to the ball and also had her thoughts about it. “I’m looking forward to tonight” she added..
After their drink the two spend some time at the fair. Wenet did spot Waza and Azūmi at the blaster game but decided not to interrupt their time. Besides she was enjoying her alone time with Ryan. The two talked about what happened the day before and why Hawkins decided not to participate in the fight. Wenet shared her own views and that she had thought about signing up for the fights if he had. But she respected his view and didn’t push any further. They also talked about the Force, Wenet shared her first experience with it when she was a child.
Eventually they made it back to the Skullduggery, shortly after Waza and Zoomi.
“Welcome back you two” Waza said smiling at them “didn’t see you at the race.” “We were a tad late, couldn’t get to our seats before the race started” Ryan explained with a boyish smile on his face “We did see the race” he added looking at Wenet. Waza could tell by the way he looked that the pilot hadn’t really watch te race at all. He chuckled “well I’m glad you two had fun.. Azūmi is already getting herself ready for the ball..” “well, I guess we should get ready as well, don’t want to get late for that” he glanced at Wenet who was getting a little shy. “no.. i dont want to be late for that” she repeated softly. “well better get ready than” Waza said.
Ryan stayed with Waza for a moment, watching Wenet return to their room. Zoomi was already there putting on a dress, which was a rare sight. The Falleen usually wore more rough and masculine outfits. “Wenet!” Azūmi looked at her Kushiban friend waiting to hear everything about her time with Ryan. Bug Wenet skipped that and went straight to the point “I’m gonna need your help… I’ve never worn a dress before or went to a ball”. Zoomi smirked “you came to the right address, I’ll get you ready.”
Waza stood with Ryan for a few moments as Wenet went into the room with Azumi.
“Do you know she really likes you but is afraid of rejection?” Waza spoke to Ryan. “If you are serious about her make a move, whatever form you chose that to be in, just don’t break her heart.” Waza clapped Ryan on the shoulder and walked towards his room. Waza cleaned up in the fresher, selecting a new cologne he hoped she would like he began to get ready. Pulling out his formal attire with an off-white shirt, black trousers and a jacket with tails and a small tie Waza began dressing for the event. His final accessory for dressing would be the shoulder harness for his lightsaber. Adjusting it, he checked the mirror one last time to make sure he was spot on with his look and the saber was concealed. He left the room to wait in the common area.
In the common area, taking a report from OzLow on ships stores and systems checks Waza heard her coming down the hall. High heels striking the deck plating, Azumi and Wenet entered the room. Time stopped as everyone turned to see. Form fitting purple dress, four-inch heels, hair curled and flowing over her shoulder Azumi commanded the room and everyone was her audience. Waza could not speak; he was awestruck by her beauty.
Ryan adopted a beautiful dark purple suit, his favorite color, with a white cravat and a matching cape lined in white with the shell the same dark purple as the remainder of his clothing. He carefully polished his boots, well heeled for riding and a sort of height and grace to his movements. His make up was immaculate, his dark blonde hair dusted white and pomaded into a neat side part. He wanted to make an excellent impression.
He tucked his lightsabers out of sight under his coat and the dagger he earned for his protection of the Voice was hidden in front of his hips in the waistband of his trousers. To appear armed was to appear uncouth but to BE completely unarmed was to be a fool, even at a ball. Even as someone who was extremely dangerous with his bare hands, every advantage was to be gleaned. However, he was more focused than anything on the dance and ensuring Wenet had a good time.
He was torn. He liked her, and wanted to continue to get to know her, but he was also positively laden with the sort of baggage that tended to send someone screaming in the opposite direction. His heart had taken a long time in healing and his past mistakes had proven difficult to bear. Had Wenet ever hear him startle awake screaming from a nightmare while passing the door to his room? Did she ever hear rumors that the reason he kept his distance despite his flirtatious ways was because of some old flame in his past? The rumors were more true than people realized, but he wanted to make things work and genuinely get to know the Kushiban. Elegance came in many forms and she had a martial elegance and way of moving that Ryan found cute and enchanting in equal measure.
<@741417155546841158>
[5 min earlier]
“you look fine Wenet” Zoomi said when the Kushiban stood infront of the mirror in the VIP room. The girls had decided to confiscate the room to get ready. Wenet however wasn’t so sure about looking fine or that she was ready, she never worn a dress before. “No sorry. You look amazing” the Falleen tried to reassure her furry little friend.
“I don’t know” Wenet glanced at Azūmi behind her in the mirror. Her friend looked amazing as always. A beautiful purple dress that accentuated all the good parts. She had curves in all the right places, unlike Wenet. Wenet felt like awkward in her dark green dress with bronze details. Zoomi had helped her pick it out “it will make you look more tall” she had said, “and it will accentuate the blue of your eyes” Zoomi was very convincing, how could Wenet refuse? Not that she had any better ideas. The last party she went to she worn a suit, but that wasn’t going to impress her date. It had to be a dress.
“Wenet.. you look great. And once your furr starts glowing from happiness you’ll look even more amazing” Azūmi said as she walked to the door. “but… what about weapons?” Wenet suddenly asked. “we’re going to a ball, I doubt there’s going to be fights. But if it makes you feel more at ease you can carry this” Azūmi grabbed a small push dagger from her bag. “and put it where?, I’ve got no pockets in this thing.” Wenet looked down at her dress, feeling for any compartments. Azūmi stepped towards her “this, will fit perfectly between here” she said and without asking she slipped the small dagger between Wenet’s furry cleavage. “no one will notice” Zoomi said brushing the fur over it. “ehm.. ok.. eh.. great” the Kushiban felt awkward about what just happened but at the same time a little more confident.
“let’s go” Azūmi stepped towards the door and opened it. Wenet followed, she made sure to walk up straight, not wanting to mess up her dress.
Standing behind her friend, Wenet peeked around Zoomi’s long legs to see Waza staring at the Falleen in awe. She chuckled and then she noticed Ryan in a purple suit. Her eyes widened, she didn’t know what to say. She didn’t even notice when Azūmi stepped aside to present her to the two men. “Tada.. I present you Wenet or Kushibah” Azūmi said with pride of her work.
Wenet just stood there, not knowing how to behave. “eh.. ehmm. Hi” she said and waved awkwardly.
Ryan smiled shyly at Wenet, “Apologies if I’m a bit at a loss of words and eloquence but you look absolutely stunning. While the poetry may not readily come to a racing mind now, I’m sure I’ll be able to say wittier things when I am less overwhelmed in the moment.”
Ryan approached and offered his hand to her with a bow. He was sincere but really was nervous about being too forward. If she was afraid of being rejected he was afraid of many things as well. He would take it one moment at a time and see how things progressed. He would do his best to ensure she had a good evening.
Azūmi had told her to relax her ears to make them drop down her shoulders as if she had long wavy hair. But the moment Ryan complimented her they instantly popped up again. “Eh… eh.. thank you… eh..” she stammered nervously as her entire body tensed up.
Wenet glanced at Zoomi who mouthed to her to give him a compliment as well and to take his hand. She took his hand and nervously averted her eyes “you look very dashing as well” she managed to say softly as she held his hand. Zoomi gave her a thumbs up, helping Wenet to relax a little bit.
With a proud smile she watched her Kushiban fried accepting Ryan’s hand. Zoomi was happy for Wenet and truly hoped that this guy wasn’t going to break her little heart.
“So.. are we going or what?” She then bluntly asked and looked at Waza. “We didn’t dress up to stay on the Skullduggery… let’s party” the Falleen winked at Waza.
Waza looked at Ryan and Wenet and smiled, he turned to Azumi when she spoke just as his comm beeped a trilling note.
“Ladies and Gentlemen our ride waits outside, shall we go?” Waza offered his arm to Azumi and lead the way to the ramp. Just outside the docking bay a jet black limo speeder waited with driver standing by.
The driver opens the door as they approached, Wenet and Azumi enter first with Ryan and Waza climbing in.
A bottle of corrella champagne in a chiller with glasses waiting for them. Waza poured glasses for everyone.
“A toast to the universe letting us find each other, to enjoy, to hold and look forward to the future.” Waza proclaimed.
After several minutes of travel the limo arrived at a sprawling complex with a line of vehicles and galactic paparazzi and their camera crews. Hundreds of people were around people watching and marveling at the elegance of the spectacle.
When valet opened the door Waza exited first and scanned the crowd falling into protection mode for a moment, no threats obvious he stepped aside and Ryan exited the vehicle. Holding his hand out Wenet accepted the assistance exiting the limo, the camera crews focused on her.
The reporters all buzzing about who the mysterious Kushiban was and her body guards. Waza smirked at their reactions and Wenet’s reactions to all the attention. Waza reached to the door offering his hand to Azumi. She elegantly slide out of the limo, adjusting her dress sh estood next to Wenet.
“Just stand still for a moment, let them wonder who we are, just enough to make them want more.” Waza said over Azumi’s shoulder. Flanking the women Ryan and Waza moved to the out sides and escorted the ladies to the arched entry way.
Another valet with entreating the guests with the approved attendees list.
Waza slipped the concierge a credit chit, for his expertise.
“Announcing Inamorata, Houri, Azumi Pukis and escort Jedi Master Waza Sunrider.”
“Announcing Wenet C. Bannog, Defender of the realms, Tamer of rancors; and Escort Ranger Ryan Hawkins, Jedi Knight”
The group continued into the complex, several bands were playing across the property. At a distance the music clashed but as one approached marked areas the closest band could only be heard. Azumi and Waza plucked glasses of champaign from a passing waiter and began to groove with the music. Waza leaned close to Ryan. “If anything goes sideways and we are not already there to back you up send a signal of 5 beeps and we will find you. You all have fun.”
Waza slid his hand around Azumi’s waist and lightly spun her stopping her face to face gazing into her purple eyes. “Shall we dance m'lady?”
With a mischievous sparkle in her eyes, Azūmi looked Waza up and down. She smirked “M'lady?” the Falleen chuckled, “I’m no lady.. I’m an engineer on on a smugglers crew.” Zoomi responded as she gazed back into his eyes. “They don’t know that” Waza wiggled his eyebrows and placed his hands on her hips, moving her towards the dancefloor. “Inamorata? Houri? What is that about? Sounds fancy” she continued to question him as he kept moving her towards the dancefloor. “fancy.. like you” Waza winked. “I’m serious ood man.” Azūmi said sharply. “They are words to describe you.. a queen, most beautiful, mistress” Waza explained with a sly smile.
*“Mistress ey? A queen?.. I like the sound of that” she said and peeled his hands of her hips. She spun around and began to move. Hips swaying on the rhythm of the music she moved away from him to the centre of the dance floor. With her hand she elegantly motioned to him to join her. Waza didn’t hesitate, he approached the Falleen beauty. He wanted to take her hands to dance but she didn’t let him. Instead she started to dance around him with a playful look in her eyes.
Meanwhile, Wenet and Ryan were still standing near the entrance. They could see Waza and Azūmi on the dance floor. Wenet rolled her eyes “great… they’re doing another mating dance” she said softly to herself. “I’m sorry? Did you say something?” Ryan asked having heard her. Wenet shook her head “Its nothing..”
Ryan saw her looking at the dancefloor “Would you like to dance?” he asked her. Wenet smiled but looked away “how?” was her reply, she had no idea how they could dance with their difference in height. Truth was, Ryan wasn’t sure either. He couldn’t just scoop her up. He was a gentleman and that wasn’t how you’d treat a lady. “ah. Yeah.. I have to admit I’m not entirely sure either.”
“it’s ok” Wenet replied and smiled at him but Ryan was no fool, he could see she was feeling disappointed. “We could go have a drink” Wenet then suggested but Ryan had a different idea. “oh we could… or..” “Or what?” the Kushiban tilted her head as she looked up at him. “Would you care to join me for a walk in the gardens” he nodded towards the open doors.
For Tatooine it was remarkably green outside, almost like an oasis. “I’d love to” Wenet replied happily.
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Waza began to circle Azumi as she moved around him. Stepping towards her, she stepped back. Two steps, then she stepped towards him. Moving in sync, the pair reached out to clasp arms and circled more. Pulling Azumi to him in a spin. Once they were close Waza dipped her back and her hair nearly brushed the floor. With a pivot of the hips, Waza lifted her from the dip and rolled her across his back to land on her feet.
The crowd began to move away allowing them more room to maneuver. The band seeing the pair in the middle of the floor picked up the pace of the music. With a slight bow, Waza stepped to her, taking one hand in hers and one hand on her hip they began to move in a dance Waza had been practicing. The foxtrot he had been told it was called. Quick steps and spins the pair moved to the beat of the music.
Ryan walked hand in hand with Wenet, somewhat self-conscious about his callouses though running his thumb now and again along the back of her hand reassuringly and kindly.
“I always have loved nature, though where I grew up nature was usually for hunting and the city was wear I spent most of my time. Don’t get me wrong, I love cities too. The bustle, the diversity of people of all kinds and beliefs and species, I loved the food and I loved just how much there was to do. Pelagon often gets the reputation of being stuffy, but even at noble balls and everything that isn’t really true. Polite, yes, but stuffy? Only when people are putting on a show but backroom romances and card games show the nobility are like anyone else in that regard.”
Ryan smiled and continued
“I love this greenery here. Especially the flowers though admittedly it is very hard to admire with such beautiful company drawing my attention. What is the greenery like where you are from?“
Sparkles and an eccentric use of purple.
That was what lay before Zy on the bed. He stared at the suit. The box it arrived in lay discarded, tossed over the other side of the bed. A dozen possibilities raced through his mind. Should he find a replacement to wear? But where on earth would he get it? He had never been to a ball or any kind of function before. But he knew it took time to tailor these outfits. It had to be perfect. He wouldn’t settle for less.
But sparkles? Really?
That wasn’t what he ordered, and who even crystallized their clothes anymore? His sigh blew the hair out of his face. Zy took the garment and held it under the only source of light in the room—a stellar lamp. Its large surface rotated just slowly enough that each of the stars within reflected their light across the room. It was a wave. A gentle wash of light, then shadow until the next star circled across.
It was beautiful under normal circumstances. Now it only served to highlight the suit as it would be seen: a beacon. The cloth material slid through his fingers, it was smooth, but as it caught the light, it bounced endlessly off each crystal. The result was lines of a softer-colored amethyst that extended past the suit itself.
Dad would say to make it work. So that was what he would do.
TBC
Zoomi wasn’t the type that would let a man lead. She’d be the one that would make a man follow by luring him with her seductive moves and flirtatious smiles, occasionally with some help of her pheromones. But with Waza it was different, he just took the lead and made her follow
“Not exactly my style” she admitted as they moved around the dancefloor. *“You’re a natural though” Waza replied. Zoomi smiled and with the next spin she took the opportunity to see where the others were.
“I see our finely dressed pilot is taking Wenet to the gardens” she said and as they continued their spin, Waza also good a peek, seeing them disappear into the gardens. “I’m happy for her” he said with a smile. “I just hope he won’t break her heart again” Zoomi replied as the song came to an end. “Again?” Waza asked as he lead her off the floor. She hesitated for a moment, Wenet had never told her but she just knew something had happened. “Wenet used to be very close to someone on our crew, they did everything together and I could easily tell she had feelings for him. But.. one day she suddenly started to avoid him. Shortly after that she left and joined Odan-Urr” the old man could tell that Azūmi was protective over her Kushiban friend. “Hawkins is a good guy, I’m sure all be alright.. now.. would you like another dance? Or a drink and then another dance?” he asked with a boyish smile, trying his best to lift the mood again. “a drink would be nice” “a drink it is”
Despite it being a bit awkward, Wenet was very happy to be holding hands with Ryan. She was beaming as they slowly strolled along the garden path.
“Backroom romances?” she repeated softly and couldn’t help but wonder about his romantic past. However, she did not ask, she didn’t want to make him think she was being nosy or jealous even. At his compliment her fur brightened and she shyly looked away. Wenet had no idea how to respond to it so she was happy he changed the focus on her home world.
“Kushibah is green, many forests and mountains” she began to tell him. “I come from Caerbannog valley, theres a lot of Silkweed farms there… Most Kushibah are farmers or weavers… quite boring really.” she wrinkled her nose and looked up at him. “I dont have much in common with most of my kind. They don’t want to leave Kushibah.. the farms is all that matters to them.. I’m nothing like that. I want adventure, I want action and see the galaxy…” she smiled thinking about how she escaped that boring life..
Ryan nodded attentively. “It sounds like a beautiful place, though I can understand wanting to get out and experience things. I’m still in that place myself, though I admit… though this is a touch embarrassing that as much as I love a good adventure and a good scrap, I long for the day when I can settle down a bit more. Get myself a wife, a lovely home, and just teach martial arts to the local community.” Ryan looked for Wenet’s reaction “Though perhaps that might make me sound a bit boring. For now though, I’m here to adventure and live my life and I would absolutely love to know more about you. For one, is green your favorite color? It looks good on you.”
When he told her he was longing for the day to settle down, Wenet felt a little embarrassed. She didn’t want him to think she thought less of him because of those desires. “You’d never sound boring to me.. It actually sounds a lot more exciting than being a Silkweed farmer on Kushibah” she said trying to fix her earlier comments. “my parents were already talking about finding me a mate when I turned six” she continued with a slightly awkward smile “They didn’t like my plans of leaving home”
“oh, no.. Zoomi told me it would look good on me. My favourite colour is aquamarine.. a light and bright greenish blue.. purple looks really good on you”
Azumi and Waza found a table to one side of the room. The wait staff was very prompt on clearing away empty glasses and small plates. From the time Waza spotted the table and it had been cleaned had only taken a few steps.
“Let’s people watch for a bit, one of the fun things here, try to guess what they do.” As they moved to the table, Waza snagged a small plate of crackers and cheeses for snacks. He held the chair for Azumi and then found his seat. After a few minutes, a woman approached the table and sat with them. Waza and Azumi looked at each other. “So handsome are you here alone?” she asked him. Waza glanced at Azumi with a raised eyebrow. Fire rose to her eyes and she looked at him raising her hand questioningly. “Miss I don’t know who you are, but I don’t appreciate you disrespecting my date. I’m here with her, I’ll be leaving with her, you can continue on to another table.”
The woman would not be deterred, “I intend to change your mind away from this alien and bring you back to being with a human. I could buy you a whole planet, what can she do for you?” “What she can do for me isn’t the point of anything, I choose to be with her and you can leave now.” Waza said. The woman turned and finally looked at Azumi. Sneering the words “I don’t see it, she is just a Falleen.” “This is the last time I will be polite about it, Leave now.” Waza said. “Honey,” the woman said not taking her eyes off Azumi. “You can put a fancy dress on her but she isn’t of this lifestyle.” Waza raised his hand pushing with the force, projecting the thought into her head. She would prefer to be with a Wookie. “I think that Wookie over there is just who you are looking for.”
Zoomi said nothing, she just sat there with an unimpressed smile. It didn’t seem to bother her all the insults. She was waiting for the right moment to strike back, however that moment didn’t come as the woman sudden turned her attention away from them “ah. The Wookiee I am looking for” she said and walked away.
Confused Azūmi watched the woman leave. Waza noticed the confusion “I’m sorry you had to listen to those insults” he said and placed his hand on hers. “she won’t be bothering us anymore” he chuckled and added “Unfortunately that Wookiee will have to deal with her.” Zoomi didn’t know anything about the Force, so she had no idea what just happened. But she felt a little dissapointed as she didn’t get the chance to step up for herself. “You really didn’t have to defend me” she said and grabbed her drink as if nothing had happened. “I can handle myself, I was just waiting for that hag to finish what she had to say.” “oh, I know you can handle yourself. But I couldn’t sit here and say nothing.” Waza said and leaned in a little “what were you planning to do?” he asked curiously. “Not sure. Embarrass her for sure..” Azūmi calmly replied but thought to herself, I’d punch her in the face
“AARGH!” They heard a scream both turnd their gaze towards the sound, as did most of the guests around them. The Wookiee had picked the woman up. “Oh my.. guess the Wookiee didn’t mind her attention” Azumi finally smiled as she could see the women was definitely feeling embarrassed now..
Waza knew embarrassment was not all that woman would get from Azumi, most likely, a beating she had never felt before; she deserved it too. A slow love ballad started from the band and the lighting changed. Waza downed his drink and whisked Azumi from her chair and back onto the dance floor. Holding her close they began an intricate dance moving together across the floor. Staring into her purple eyes everything but Azumi and the music fell away. Waza considered himself the luckiest man on the planet.
“Why thank you lovely,” Ryan replied, his blushing concealed somewhat by his make-up. “It is in fact my favorite color” he leaned closer to her and just enjoyed her presence “I think next to green it is quite a striking image and I think you look amazing. It brings out your eyes as I’m sure aquamarine would as well.”
Ryan broke his shyness a bit to gaze into her eyes a bit longer and then looked away again. “While I’m sure we are missing out on food and music a bit, I love that I get this moment out here surrounded by, and next to, beauty. I hope you are enjoying yourself.”
“Maybe Zoomi picked it purely because she’s green” Wenet giggled as they moved further away from the festivities. They found a small wall fountain hidden away between hedges, with a cosy seat in front of it away from prying eyes. “would you like a seat?” Ryan asked her, “I’d love to” Wenet replied and hopped onto the stone bench. For a moment Ryan seemed to hesitate to sit down as well, it was quite intimate. Then Wenet tapped on the stone next to her, “join me” and of course he could refuse the invitation so after dusting of the seat he sat down next to her.
“I don’t mind missing the party” Wenet said softly as they both looked at a bubbling fountain. “I’m quite content being here with you” she added and glanced at him with a shy smile. She was indeed very happy but part of her kept thinking that it was to good to be true. Why would someone like him be interested in her?
Wenet bit her lip, thinking about what to say next when suddenly a different couple found their quiet alcove. They didn’t even notice the Wenet and Ryan sitting there as they were all over each other. Eyes wide in shock she watched them before looking away in embarrassment. Ryan cleared his throat “excuse me” he said trying to get their attention.
“ooh.. sorry” the man, a human, said as he looked at them. The woman, a Twi'lek, giggled “oh seems we aren’t the only ones here” and pulled the man by his arm away from the alcove leaving Ryan and Wenet alone…
“So.. how’s this going to work?” Azūmi suddenly asked mid dance. “hows what work?” Waza wasn’t really sure what she meant “we’re gonna have fun and see what the night will bring us..” he added assuming she was talking about this very night. Zoomi chuckled “I meant after this party.. the future.”
“oooh!.. eh.. eh..” Waza stammered and missed a few steps of the dance, causing them to bump into another couple dancing. *“hey watch out!” a Mirialan said angry. “sorry… sorry..” Waza laughed and turned his attention back to Azūmi. He hadn’t expected her question, she had been very clear about not getting further involved, not yet anyways. “well ehm.. I’m not sure…what do you think?” he began to look flustered.
“well. I’m not going to quit my crew.. they’re my family. And I love my work. Just because I’m dating a Jedi doesn’t mean I’m going to change the way I am.” she replied and waited for his response
“So we are dating now?” Waza said with a mischievous grin finally catching all of her words. “I never expected you to give up your crew, the way you are is part of why I feel the way I do about you. I expressed where I would like this to go in the end. Settling down would take years I imagine, I just want to spend those years with you as we can make it work. When you’re ready, I want to be the final chapters of your story.” Waza regained his steps to finish the song. “Shall we move this to a place less loud so we can talk more?” He said offering her his arm to escort her from the floor and to the gardens between band venues.