Fandom Star Wars

[KyloGlenn]

Paquin hadn’t expected Kylo to completely stop the ship at her question. She knew it would be controversial. Maybe she’d caught him off guard. No, she definitely caught him off guard. She had expected some anger at the question, with Kylo that seemed to be a given. But rather it was at her, the question, or the answer he was angry at, she couldn’t be sure.

Maybe all three.

The honesty in his answer surprised her. She more expected a no. She listened, and she wondered if he was trying to justify his feelings by saying he missed what he thought they were. Instead of flat out saying he missed them. Paquin couldn’t expect much more from Kylo, though. She was happy with what she got. “It’s okay to say you miss them,” Paquin assured, gently. She could see he was more than ready to escape the situation.

Paquin still wasn’t sure if what she did was right, and she supposed she’d never know. She didn’t know Kevan or even Mira or what their goals were. Whether they meant to betray Kylo or Snoke. Whatever their motives were. But she was at least sure that she was glad that she’d been the one to kill him, rather than Kylo. She hadn’t known him and that was a good thing.

Kylo eagerly landed the ship next to the other and Paquin rose, bringing the datapad with her. Just in case. But before either of them made any move to leave, she spoke again. “Thank you, Kylo, for telling me. For being honest.” Paquin didn’t reach out to touch him like she felt the urge to, but she wanted to encourage him sharing the way he felt. That no one was going to condemn him for it. And maybe he’d be more inclined to share in the future.

Or maybe he'd be even less inclined.

Paquin would let Kylo lead her out, she’d given him the keys after all.

-

Ada grabbed a coffee for her and sat in one of her chairs, across from Mace but angled herself towards her son and his friend. Mace didn’t look like he was looking to chat, anyway. But she and him definitely needed to talk at some point, she hadn’t forgotten that. But for now, she gave all her attention to the two young men.

Finn and Poe looked at each other, both giving each other uncertain looks before turning to Ada. Finn shrugged. “Mira’s attending the Senate meeting, so however long that lasts, at least. Mace and I have some training to do at some point,” he thought to mention, so his mother knew that they’d have to depart at some point. One day he and his mom would get more time together. Maybe he’d take her on a vacation or something.

That’s what sons did, right?

“Training? I thought Mira was training you?” Ada inquired.

“Oh, she is! I mean, they both are. Sort of. They both have things to teach me.”

“Hm. Well. Play nice, okay?” She spoke more to Mace with that. Ada hardly knew how Mace trained anyone, but she knew who he was as a person. And she knew Mace wouldn’t feel the need to protect Finn like Ada did. “What about you, Poe?”

“Well, for the night, at least. I’m here as long as my boss, Leia, is.”

“You’re staying for the night?” Finn questioned, not knowing that.

“Yeah, for Governor Ginger’s party.”

“Tarkin? He’s having a party?”

“Mm, I think he throws them fairly often,” Ada commented. She’d been to one, a long time ago. She got to do much on behalf of the museum. “If either of you need a place to stay, I have an extra bed,” she offered, and then quickly added, “and a couch. I could probably find another mattress, too…Better than paying for a hotel around here.” That was expensive. “Or sleeping on a ship.”

-

Hux wasn’t much affected by the clear distaste coming from Carise. If anything, he was pleased by it. Of course, he would’ve enjoyed a much more dramatic reaction, just so Carise could embarrass herself further. But he supposed she would maintain this supposed elegance and superiority she thought she had. But the General’s attention was quickly drawn to Mira and Julia.

They hadn’t spoken of Julia whisking Mira away and so Hux didn’t know what was happening, but Mira gave him a nod, to tell him it was fine. Hux wanted to question it further, but wouldn’t. Not in front Carise or even August. He couldn’t look like he didn’t know what was going on. So, he just gave her a subtle nod in return and would turn his attention back to the other woman.

“How sweet,” Carise commented, watching Julia and Mira leave. She turned her gaze to August, and then to Hux. Brendol was right, Hux and the blonde definitely had something going on. Even if they didn’t realize they had something, they had to be attached to one another. Of course, Carise wouldn’t directly comment on Hux and the former Knight’s interactions and played it off as a comment on August and Julia.

Hux didn’t care and got straight to the point.

He waited until the door to the conference room shut behind Mira and Julia. “You need to call off your statements against Tarkin. What did you say exactly? That he should be removed from the Senate for his unauthorized warmongering on a peaceful blockade? I’m sure you weren’t aware of the Order’s alliance with August Tarkin at that point, but you had to have been aware that we no longer aligned with Snoke and his forces.” In other words, she should have kept her mouth shut.

And he wondered why she opened it in the first place. Carise Sindian was smarter than Hux wanted to think she was.

-

Julia led Mira along by her arm until the doors to the conference room were shut, and then she released the blonde woman. Her hands came to rest clasped in front of her as they walked. “The things you do when you’re married. You become a barista, put up with the silly games your partner plays,” Julia meant that silly roleplaying game August liked to play occasionally. Of course, Mira didn’t know about that. “Hold their place in the Senate. All for love.” The lady Tarkin gave Mira a playful grin.

“Of course, I didn’t bring you along just so you could help carry drinks for me,” and Julia’s intention certainly wasn’t to just spoil her husband. Julia opened the door and held it for Mira as they exited the hotel.

To clarify, “I’m sure you noticed just how many journalists and photographers swarmed us when we arrived. And just how many questioned you about Hux and the First Order.” Julia’s muscle memory would easily lead her to her and August’s usual coffee place on Coruscant, near the Senate building. Julia briefly looked Mira up and down, looking at the white uniform in particular. “Did you chose to wear that? Or is it a requirement? Not that you don’t pull it off,” Julia was tempted to make a joke about wearing white after Productivity Day, but didn’t.

“You need to be seen away from General Hux, and the Order. It’s my understanding that you wish to represent the Gray Jedi, is that right?” Julia didn’t mean it in a condescending fashion. It looked more like she was looking to represent the First Order. She was likely doing both, but it couldn’t work like that for long. The Senate likely wouldn’t take to it.

Those who might actually favor the Gray Jedi, might not see past the First Order uniform. Those that favored the First Order might not see past the Gray Jedi. And then there were those that wouldn’t favor either.

 

[Lucyfer]

It wasn’t okay for Kylo to say he missed them, but he didn’t correct Paquin on that. Not right then. Not when he did miss them – Kevan and Mira both. Kevan’s casual joking. Mira’s calm. They both had an influence on him, and he wished he’d done something, anything, else. What could he have done, though? Kevan spoke. ‘Ariel spoke.’ Not really – Mira ripped it from her head.

Kevan spoke willingly, and then revealed his plans by having done preparations to set up an alliance outside, with friends he should have killed ages ago. And Mira…she’d done it before, Mathias – she should have been able to let Kevan go. She had been in Wild Space, she should have lost her attachments to all of them, but she hadn’t. ‘Of course not, he still comm’ed her.’ It was unbroken.

He should have seen the weakness, in both of them, but he failed them, as he was failing the Knights now, constantly dragged back to that thought by all of these small things. By Paquin’s words of encouragement that he shared. By his heart, soaring at it, and then crushed by his mind’s accusations and the harsh reality that he might not be able to do what Snoke wanted.

He was…falling. Failing. Wasn’t he? He was afraid of losing, but it seemed either path led to loss, following Snoke and pushing for the Knights to get better, and not following Snoke and letting them die. The loss was different in either case, but the imagined impact was nearly the same. In one case they hated him and cut him out willingly. In the other, they lost their lives. ‘The former is selfish.’

He just walked on, trying not to acknowledge Paquin’s words.

The ship outside was a light freighter, and the keys opened it easily enough. It clearly wasn’t a lived-in ship, nearly empty, hardly personalized. Kylo could imagine it had been used by Kevan’s group to transport things back and forth to his base, but little else. He wondered if Ocor had just been a pilot, as he turned right to head deeper into the ship. He’d go up to the cockpit later and see what coordinates he could get off of it.

‘I don’t want to miss you.’ He paused, then, glanced back to Paquin, “Do you…miss the First Order?” Did she have friends? Did she regret this, yet? Did she resent them?

~***~

Mace snorted at Ada’s request, but gave a nod anyway. He wouldn’t kill the boy – not intentionally. He didn’t plan to really harm him, either. They were going to have to get some training sabers in the future, though, that was certain. With some kyber and the proper matrixes, though, that wouldn’t be too hard to make.

As the conversation continued, Mace sunk deeper into his chair, and let Ada and Poe talk of the politics and how long everyone would be staying.

Poe smiled, “Thanks, though I’m fairly attached to the ships,” he chuckled a bit, “I may take you up on the offer, things are probably going to be packed around here,” then, to Finn, “I don’t know much about the parties, but the Tarkins are kind of famous for them whenever they’re in town. They use it to smooze, basically. Get people drunk and get them on their good side,” Leia had told a couple of stories, and apparently Julia all but insisted she wear her ‘Darth Vader’ dress. It was Julia’s favorite. Leia hadn’t decided.

“Huh…I wonder if I’ll have to go,” Mira would probably be going, right? He shrugged it off, glanced to Ada then, “If I do, do you want to come as my plus one?” Cheeky smile.

Ada desperately wanted to mention Poe. To tell Poe to just take Finn as his plus one and put them both on the spot like that, but her son’s eyes were just so full of innocence right then, and the want to spend more time with her, that she decided not to break it. Just smiled, “Of course! I don’t get to mingle with all those fancy people too often – it’ll be nice to break out one of my fancy dresses and show up!” And probably get to slap Hux. She didn’t add that, but she thought it. The Ginger General would certainly be there, considering the news lately.

And maybe meet Leia! She had to thank Leia. For so much, but nothing more than the mercy and trust and care she had for her own son.

~***~

August noticed. Ransolm noticed. Both of them shared a glance at Hux’s expense and his ignorance, and August wondered if he should start making a betting pool with the others. Alexander would end up losing horribly since he was so against Julia’s new ship, which was always good for August. He’d want to set it as a timeline, though – he distracted himself with those thoughts as the First Order spoke, listening as Hux made his demands.

“I already did,” Carise indicated, “I made a statement after we spoke withdrawing my words, though I still don’t trust the savage,” she glanced pointedly at August, who was paying enough attention to hear. His expression didn’t shift, “We all know what you are, you really do not even belong in the Senate.”

“If I had my choice, I would not be here, either,” he told Carise simply, “I’d be in the Carrion Plateau, living off of it, but I do not have a choice, so you refined people have to deal with me and the blood under my nails.” He smirked at her, “I do appreciate you recanting your position, Carise, though the damage is done,” as she well knew. Others took up her position and called her weak for turning on it. “It is why you will not be going to the Senate today.”

Carise looked startled at that, look to Hux, “Senator Tarkin is going to need my support. I—”

“Senator Tarkin needs no such thing,” August mocked. “Senator Tarkin needs you to keep your mouth shut, and show up at the party, and that’s it. Oh, and try to wear something…age appropriate for once. I was honestly embarrassed for you the last time.” The fury that lit her eyes was priceless.

He hadn’t been, really, her genes were damn good – not the typical Arkanis ones, but that wasn’t surprising with her mixed heritage. He just loved picking at that sore point. Unmarried, without her titles – her looks were an easy thing to peck at, even if the truth of it was more the way she fell from grace. Few wanted to be associated with that, and any who would, were too far beneath Carise’s notice.

“Regardless, your silence in the Senate will be a boon to me, and I’m sure we can collaborate some way to bring you back up, later, when the damage you’ve done is worn off.” Like hell. He had no political alliance with Hux, but Sindian didn’t know that.

~***~

Mira had been fairly certain none of this was about August or drinks when Julia dragged her out, but she did not say as much, only followed and listened – thanked her for the door, and continued on, letting Julia lead where she wanted and taking in the sights of a city that was both familiar and unfamiliar to her.

She bit the inside of her cheek at Julia’s query, “I chose it,” it wasn’t a requirement. She wanted to wear it. She was representing the Gray Jedi in her presence, and her words, in the Senate…but as an individual, she still wanted to represent the First Order in a way. The uniform wasn’t subtle, she knew, but it also wasn’t the standard black.

Something different, but not.

“Yes,” Mira agreed, “I do wish to represent the Gray Jedi. They don’t exactly have a uniform,” no flowy robes, no black armor, she wanted to steer away from such things because if nothing else, she and Finn were going to prove how vastly different individuals of the Gray Jedi could be. Would be. There wasn’t a uniform or standard either of them would agree on, and she didn’t want it to become something so confining, like the Jedi.

She knew what she wanted of it, in some respects – but getting to the large scale was another matter.

Julia nodded, “Mm, but perhaps, you should not be seen wearing a uniform of something you aren’t there to represent? I know – we’re not changing it this time, your presence for the First Order is crucial to you and Hux in some ways,” even if Mira wasn’t aware of it, tying the First Order to the Gray Jedi would win them some favor. It would lessen the ‘evil’ that the First Order had been associated with it, just by virtue of the term ‘Jedi’. “How you present yourself from this point forward is going to shape how both you, and Hux, are seen. You’ll connect yourself with him through this first impression – so afterwards you can be a bit more liberal in how you deck yourself out. Maybe a bit more flowy – not Jedi robes, but…something so people don’t forget that part.”

Mira wanted to roll her eyes – she did, but she couldn’t. She knew Julia was right, she spent too many days reading about the damn Senate as a child and learning about lobbyists and politicians. Still, she didn’t like the game, even if she knew she could play it. ‘But you have to.’ For the Gray Jedi. For the First Order. She was an unofficial, but an important, representative for the latter. “Are you offering to help, Julia?”

She lit up. Mira wasn’t expecting that, especially since she asked it in such a dry tone. “I am! I always wanted a daughter,” she giggled a bit, “an awkward First Order officer will do just as well! Especially since we’re going to end up tied so closely through this alliance of my husband and your boyfriend.” She dropped it so casually, and was delighted with the way Mira burned.

“We’re not—why can’t I just have friends? Finn and I are just friends.” Mira complained, shaking her head a bit as if it was everyone else who was misinterpreting things. “Hux and I are only that, at best.”

“Well, it will still tie us closely. I know August would like to have a deeper relationship with General Hux. He sees something in him. Might just be the red hair, but…he has a knack for reading people.” Julia said, slightly encouraging, “and he wants to see the Gray Jedi succeed, and so that means I have to help you succeed, just as I have to play barista,” she looped it back, “so if you want it, you have my help, Mira. As a friend, as an ally – in so far as the Gray Jedi goes, and in keeping those two men together.” A woman’s touch and influence was a powerful thing, and Johann had noticed it, too.

There were many points to keep strong in this alliance. Julia would handle this one, and Mira didn’t seem too opposed, nodding again, “All right,” she’d just have to step a bit more gently around the topic of Hux and her, figure out where the vehement denials came from. Reputation? Somehow…she doubted that was all. For both of them.

 

[KyloGlenn]

Kylo didn’t acknowledge her words, and she didn’t mind as she followed after him. She just wanted to encourage him, and as long as he knew it was okay to say what he felt, at least with her, she wouldn’t push him anymore.

Following him onto the ship, she noted it was rather empty and impersonal. It was hard for her to believe that someone owned this. Or that it would hold anything that would help them figure out how and why that guy was there. What his goal was, to rob them? Scope them out? He knew Kevan Ren, it didn’t seem to be a coincidence. Which was a little worrisome.

Paquin was caught off guard by Kylo’s question. She wasn’t sure what his goal in asking the question was, but he seemed innocent enough. Either way, he answered her truthfully, so she’d do it too. “Of course I do.” She shrugged a shoulder. “It was my home for ten years.” And she hadn’t been very willing to leave with Kylo when Hux had them all forced out.

But if she hadn’t been forced out, she wouldn’t have made friends out of Ariel and Gnaeus. Kylo would hate her. And Paquin would admit to regretting some things. Not regret, but she wouldn’t have particularly chosen some things. But she was overcome with what she would call intense feelings for her three Knights that made it all seem not so bad. No matter how difficult her friends were.

She felt at home with them.

“I miss my job, more than the actual organization, I suppose.” She missed the people she worked with. She missed her room and her things. She missed healing, helping. But the First Order and its goals…well, she really never paid much attention to what she was getting into, did she?

Paquin wandered about, moving around Kylo as she spoke, trying to find anything that might help her crack into the datapad. Numbers, something.

-

Finn’s face lit up at her agreement, “Great! It’d be fun!” Finn was excited to spend more time with his mom, all he could get really. They had a lot of catching up to do. But Finn also wanted to parade around with her, telling everyone ‘Hey, this is my mom!’ to show off the fact that he had one, finally. Well, he’d always had one, but he didn’t know about her.

And Finn supposed that more than anything, he wanted to show her off in front of Hux. As a subtle ‘fuck you’. Finn wanted to see Hux’s face, his reaction. He was entitled to that, wasn’t he? After all the shit the First Order put him through, and now he had to work with them again. And he’d been nice enough, for Mira’s sake. He deserved to be a little smug.

“And I can’t wait to see you in a suit again! You looked so handsome! I never got pictures of you going to a dance or anything…so this will make up for that!” Ada was a picture person. She had them all lining her walls of her family members. She still had some of Finn when he was a baby, but they hurt too much to look at when he’d been taken. She’d have to put them up again soon.

“Have you seen the pictures of Finn in a suit? With Mira?” Ada spoke to Poe then, “He looked so handsome, didn’t he?”

“Mom—“ Finn tried, his cheeks heating up.

And Poe didn’t know why his cheeks were heating up, too. “Uh, yeah. Yeah, he looks—looked handsome.” Poe chuckled, scratching the back of his head. Finn and Poe glanced at each other before quickly looking away. Mace snorted at the exchange. ‘Attachments.’ Was all he could think.

Ada shot Mace a look, something saying ‘don’t even look at my son and his boyfriend’ before engaging with the two younger men again. “Well, I’m excited. I bet I could get something out of all those drunk politicians.” Family secrets, maybe get them to sell some family heirlooms to the museum.

-

Hux remained silent through their little banter. Carise’s comments and Tarkin’s mocking of her. Partly because Hux found it amusing. And also because it was between those two and Hux’s job was not to get in-between it, just to occupy Carise during the Senate meeting. So he remained quiet, even as August’s jabs became quite personal.

Carise was certainly burning with anger and tried her best to disguise it.

She looked to Hux then, “There are important details about Arkanis that I need to bring up to Senate,” Carise tried to appeal to Hux in the form of their shared homeworld. Surely he had to consider that, right? Carise couldn’t let August kick her out of the Senate, even if it was just for the one meeting.

Hux scoffed, suppressing an eye roll. She must have really thought him to be stupid, didn’t she? “I’m not sure what galaxy you’re living in, Carise, but the Senate won’t hold a conversation for an Outer Rim planet. Not whatever measly issues you’ve managed to scrounge up,” which Hux was fairly certain she’d just said that to convince Hux that she had to be in the Senate. Arkanis was a wealthy planet and it was under First Order protection. What was she going to talk about? The weather?

Hux knew the planet was fine.

“Especially not today, with the trouble you’ve created as well as the death of a Senator and the galaxy finally being recognized to be at war. Whatever it is can wait until the next Senate meeting. For today, you’ll sit here. And preferably be quiet the entire time.”

“This isn’t fair, I’m a Senator. I have a right to be there.”

“After what you’ve caused, I think it is quite fair.”

“I retracted my statement! I’ve done my part in resolving the issue!”

Hux knew that Carise liked her titles, she liked her power. And it was being taken away from her, even if it was temporary, and she was reacting to it. “Careful, Senator. You’ve humiliated yourself enough, haven’t you?”

There was a certain type of burning hatred in Carise’s resulting glare. More so than there’d ever been before. Of course, Hux paid no mind to it. Perhaps he should have.

-

Julia smiled, “I think we might be able to start a little bit today. My husband and I are throwing a party tonight. Obviously, you’re invited. I’ll take you to get something to wear to it,” something Julia approved. “And while we’re at it, we might as well shop around for some more things you might like to present yourself in.” Julia liked the idea of giving the awkward Officer a makeover.

Of course, Julia had shopping buddies whenever she found the time or interest to do such activities. But none that would let her give them a HoloMovie-esque makeover.

“Do you own any make-up? I think a red lip would compliment you nicely. Maybe a deep berry color as well,” Julia mused, observing Mira’s face. “We’ll take care of that later today. We’ll have time.” The event wasn’t until later, during the night, anyway. It was only the morning. Even with how long Senate meetings could go on for. How long this particular one might go on for.

Julia had a lot to teach Mira. Perhaps some things August nor Hux could teach her. How to assert herself into politics, even without the official titles of Senator or Governor to get people interested. Julia enjoyed the prospect of having her own apprentice of sorts. Where she could see August taking the other ginger under his wing. She wondered if redheads had the secret code where they were required by their own ginger law to support others.

“There’s always occasions, opportunities to dress up and make yourself known. Do you enjoy operas, Master Vallens?” She mused. Maybe Julia could recruit the couple—or rather the not couple of Hux and Mira—to join her and August. “They’re often good for appearances. The people find it endearing. And they’re enjoyable pass times.”

The smell of coffee welcomed Julia, even on the street. Once again opening the door into the bustling coffee shop, she allowed Mira to walk in first, but the Tarkin was still recognized first. “Julia! Welcome back. The usuals?” The actual barista, a pink skinned woman, greeted. The Tarkins came in often, and were obviously well known.

“Thank you, Alys,” her full name was much too long to greet her with casually. “Yes, and few more.” Julia ordered some tea for Ransolm, even if he hadn’t asked for it. He was getting tea. And then she’d look to Mira and give her the option to order something. Julia heard the blonde liked coffee. A lot.

 

[Lucyfer]

Kylo winced internally as Paquin admitted that she missed it. Should he feel guilty? Should he feel angry? He didn’t know, but he knew that he felt hurt by the confession, but he wasn’t clear on if he was angry with her, or felt guilt for taking her away from it – or being responsible for her removal, in a way. If he’d left her alone, let her live life as a medic who was Force sensitive, she could have continued there.

But then she wouldn’t be here…and he would not know her. The Knights would be Three and not Four.

She clarified a bit, but the damage was done. She said she missed her job more than the people, and Kylo wondered what people she had known. If she had friends. She must have had friends, right? ‘No.’ Kylo didn’t have friends in the First Order and he’d been among them for years. It was entirely possible to leave their ranks and leave behind no regrets or friends. “I see…I suppose that was a stupid question.” What did he expect?

Paquin moved around him, and he decided to leave it. He would only hurt himself more by asking. What could he do for her? Nothing. He couldn’t restore her to the First Order, and he wouldn’t want to restore her to the First Order, either. So, he turned towards the cockpit, and went to turn it on, quickly running the systems to detail historical routes this ship had taken.

‘Bingo.’ As expected, he found a route that took it from the cantina he and Paquin had questioned people at, to the planet Kevan had gone to. It came from that planet, as well, and had been to Coruscant, before stopping off at Ryloth, then Carida, and then heading out here. He frowned. ‘Ryloth?’ That hardly seemed…subtle. What did Kevan have to do with Ryloth? Or Carida, for that matter?

He called back, “I know you didn’t know Kevan – but do you have any ideas why a smuggler would go to either Ryloth or Carida?” Why did he know so damn little about Kevan? He should probably be reporting this to Snoke. ‘Later.’ Snoke would know what to do. ‘Later!’ Maybe Ariel or Gnaeus would have ideas.

~***~

Mace caught the look, and rolled his eyes once he was sure Ada wasn’t looking at him again, instead fully engaged with the two boys. He wondered if he could just leave, but he knew the answer to that was ‘no’. Even if he and Ada weren’t going to have their talk right then, he knew he had to stay there for Finn’s sake. And to make sure he trained Finn a bit, later. ‘Attachments….’ He knew he wasn’t immune, either.

“You probably can get a lot of things out of those drunk politicians,” Poe agreed, smirking a bit as he thought of a few conversations he’d had with Leia, when she wanted to vent about the Senate after leaving it. The underhanded tactics – alcohol seemed to be involved in plenty of them, even with her. Someone had tried to bribe her with Alderaanian wine.

Finn nodded, “Just, um, don’t get yourself in any trouble,” Finn said.

Ada laughed, shaking her head at that, “Oh, I know what I’m doing, don’t you worry, Finn. As I said, this isn’t my first time at a Tarkin party. I should go make sure I still have something up to par!” She rose then, and gestured Finn up with her, “Come help me pick something!” She said immediately, and Finn hopped to it, following after her to go into her room with her, as she went to the closet and started pulling through it.

“Your friend really is handsome, too, Finn,” she noted to Finn, and as she heard him start to stammer, she couldn’t help but chuckle to herself, “You don’t have to be serious about him to think he’s handsome. You can sort your feelings out later. Just from a…objective view.”

Finn conceded that, cheeks still flared and heated, “Y-yeah, he is.”

~***~

General Hux may be ignorant of the look, but Governor Tarkin was not. He had learned to recognize it very early in life, otherwise, he’d be dead. Several times over. A woman scorned was one thing, easily dealt with. This was something else entirely, and were August in Hux’s position, he would have found a way to dispose of Sindian that instant.

He wasn’t – but that unspoken Ginger rule was still present as he rose from the couch, “Well then, I’ll leave you two alone so you can discuss how rainy Arkanis this time of the year,” he smirked, gestured for Ransolm. He’d probably stay at the café while the Senate was in session, but he wouldn’t stay here. Ransolm rose. “General Hux, I suppose I’ll see you at the party – it’s the 500 Republica building, I’m sure you can find it, if not, Senator Sindian knows the way.” He cast her a brief glance, enjoying how she was sulking, before his gaze returned to Hux, “Do be careful.”

He didn’t mean with anyone outside that room, though it could easily be taken as such. He made sure not to avert his gaze to the door, though, or in any other direction to offer that excuse. ‘She wants your head, and she nearly had Ransolm’s.’ Carise would not dirty her own hands, but she had allies, and those alliances went deep, “Perhaps if you get bored, you can watch the Senate from the café.”

A way to get out of this room, and get into public. That was all he’d offer Hux, before he turned on heel to exit the room and get on towards the café himself, and the senate building if Julia wasn’t still there.

~***~

‘I was hoping to see Finn again before….’ Mira wanted to say, but pursed her lips together as Julia seemed to make the plans, shopping for clothes, for make-up. Mira shook her head. No, she didn’t really have make-up, definitely not a red that bright, did she? ‘No, you just got a dress.’ No make-up. She probably should have added make-up to that outfit.

At the mention of operas, though, she did light up a bit. Before becoming somber. “There was one I always wanted to see – the Cantata of Cora Vessora,” she told Julia, “but I’ve only seen a couple others.” With Kevan. When he dragged her to them. “I liked them well enough.” They were entertaining, but she’d always been anxious about ‘wasting time’.

Of course, now, in this new role, wasting time in such a way wasn’t really wasting time, was it? There were appearances to keep up. As they entered, Julia was greeted, and returned it just as easily, remembering the barista, and ordering up whatever her ‘usual’ was, and then tea. Mira glanced over the menu.

Now that she had such a taste for coffee, she realized she could try other things. She’d had ice cream flavored like coffee. But what about lattes? Mochas? The possibilities seemed endless as she looked at the menu of things with espresso. ‘What was it Kevan always talked about?’ Her eyes fastened on it with the thought, a gentle glow emitting from the kyber, though not green that time. Yellow. ‘Stars….’ She was not ordering the ‘white chocolate cherry mocha’, though it made her smile as she looked back to Alys, “Could I please try a caramel mocha?” Probably too much sugar.

“Of course!” Alys quickly took the orders and rung it up. Julia paid with no fuss, and Alys quickly went to make the drinks, “Who’s your friend, Julia?” Though she knew the woman was right there, she asked Julia, a teasing tone present.

“Master Vallens,” Julia introduced, noting other Senators in the room. They liked this place, it was near the senate house, and eyes turned their way as Julia moved to the end of the counter to wait on the drinks. “Head of the Gray Jedi, though it’s rather small right now,” Julia said, as Alys raised her eyebrows in curiosity. “She’s responsible for the surge of Jedi Guides showing up, too.”

“Oh?” Alys had picked one up, but hadn’t thought much about it. She hadn’t even been certain it was genuine teachings, but it had been interesting nonetheless. She hadn’t read much more than a couple pages.

Mira nodded, “Not completely, I just found the original and made sure copies were made and dispersed.” Between the First Order fanboys at Cimarosa, and Ada, she thought she did well with making sure it wouldn’t disappear.

 

[KyloGlenn]

Paquin expected that her answer would displease Kylo. If only because she thought he’d think that she wasn’t committed to the Knights of Ren or something along those lines. Her intention wasn’t to hurt him, make him angry. Or feel guilty. Not that she was aware he was feeling such things.

Paquin listened for annoyance in his words but found none. Paquin shook her head, “No, it wasn’t.” She was quick to reassure. He was just curious, she didn’t want her answer to discourage him from asking her other things, along the same strain maybe. Paquin wanted to will him to be more open, to talk more. ‘Communicate.’ Her own thoughts mocked her. That seemed like a pipe dream now.

Well…baby steps.

Kylo left her, though, and so she went to explore. She accepted that she wouldn’t be finding anything for the datapad like Kylo said. But maybe she’d find something to help them out in some /way.

Kylo called to her, asking something about Kevan and smuggling. Ryloth and Carida. She moved to join him, to look at what he was seeing. “Ryloth? I know the First Order had some involvement there a while ago,” She read it in some old files. “And I know they’ve had some difficulties with trading in recent years.” She could see why a smuggler might find work there. “There was that Twi’lek woman,” The one that punched her. Kevan’s friends liked punching her, didn’t they? She probably deserved it.

“Maybe she was paid a visit?” Paquin knew that not every Twi’lek hailed from Ryloth, but she was offering some sort of answer. “And Carida…I have no idea.” The name sounded familiar. She had a feeling she’d heard it in passing. Maybe read it, too? But she didn’t know more about it, or why Kevan would be interested. “I’m not really the right person to ask, I suppose. I’m sorry.” She wasn’t very useful, was she? “Gnaeus might know more. Or Ariel,” Paquin failed to notice the shift in her voice when she said Ariel’s name.

She said it begrudgingly as if she didn't want to suggest that Ariel had any use at all.

-

Ada chuckled, a grin on her face as she pulled out option after option She had a lot of nice clothes, but she needed something extra formal for Tarkin’s party. “I like Poe. He’s nice,” she mused as she sifted through clothing. “I’m glad you two found each other.” She didn’t necessarily mean that they found each other in a romantic sense…even if that might be a possibility.

She meant that she was glad they became friends in their odd circumstances,

“Yeah.” Finn nodded, “Yeah, me too.” Poe was a good friend. Finn certainly wouldn’t be where he was without him. Finn had another friend like that. A friend he wasn’t sure where he’d be without their help.

Rey.

“I have another friend, Rey, I want you to meet. One day. When she’s available.” If she’d ever be. Luke was keeping her busy, Finn had barely seen her since she’d gone to find Luke. Cimarosa was the first time in a long while. He hoped he’d get more chances to spend more time with her, too. And he definitely wanted his mom to meet her, as well.

Poe and Rey were definitely important people in Finn’s life. His best friends.

“Oh, yeah?” Ada was curious. Like a Poe kind of friend? “Well, I’d love to meet her, too.” Finn sure did have quite a few friends. Ada was glad that he did, and that the First Order hadn’t ruined him. Ada may not have been able to raise him, but he turned out good and brave. Strong.She had the right to want to have raised him, but all she asked was for him to turn out exactly the way he did.

Finn grinned, “Next time I see her, I’ll ask.” Really they had to ask Luke.

Ada was much too curious about Rey. And what the situation was with her. That was what being a mother was. Wholly invested in one’s child’s interests. She hummed, smirking ever so slightly. “What do you think of this one? Dressy enough?” Ada asked as she pulled out a dress, beige and gold. It seemed fancy.

-

Party. Didn’t Tarkin party enough the night before? Hux supposed not, the Tarkins were wild. Hux would attend, but perhaps he’d actually try to make his exit earlier than the previous night.

Hux’s brow arched at August’s warning. Be careful? Careful of what, Carise? Hux noted the previous glance to Carise and the lack of gesture towards anything outside of the room. Carise wouldn’t do anything. Not herself. And she had limited access to anyone else. Nevertheless, Hux nodded in agreement. “Will do, Governor,” would be his parting words to Tarkin, before his eyes settled on the woman in front of him.

The doors shut and Carise returned his gaze. “What am I supposed to do this entire time?”

“I don’t know. Read.” Hux resisted the urge to ask her if she knew how to do that, just to piss her off further. “I don’t really care. Maybe we’ll take a walk once the Senate meeting begins.” Hux glanced behind her, to the time on the wall.

“You shouldn’t be keeping me here. Tarkin needs me, out there, on his side. You need me on your side.” Carise's threats were vague, almost as if she was giving him a chance to give her a better option than what Brendol did.

“You’re place is here for now. Away from the Senate until what you’ve done has settled.”

Carise hummed. So it would be, then.

-

“She’s humble, too.” Julia joked. No, Mira just gave credit where it was due. Which was fair. And cute. Julia didn’t see that often anymore.

Alys chuckled. “Well, however much you’re responsible. Color me intrigued.” That didn’t happen much, Alys was used to the politics and politicians coming in and out all of the time. Talking about their issues and the Senate. Most of it bored her at this point, they all said the same things. She learned to tune most out until it came to something new.

Like Mira. “I’ll be sure to watch you from now on. Someone like you could bring something extra in this day and age.” A new form of Jedi in the days of what seemed to be a looming Sith take over? Or whatever this Supreme Leader Snoke thought he and his minions were. But Alys was curious as to what Master Vallens might say, she was already making quite a wave in the galaxy with the Jedi Guides.

“It was nice to meet you, Master Vallens!” Alys added as the lid to the last drink was put in place, setting the drinks on the counter in front of them. “I’ll see you later, Julia.” Alys dismissed herself with a smile.

“Bye, Alys,” Julia replied, slipping a few credits into the tip jar before scooping up her drink and her husband’s in her hands. She turned to Mira and quickly noticed that the crystals in her hair were a different color than they were before. “Hm, I didn’t realize the crystals could change color.” She noted before turning around completely, to head out of the door.

“I like Alys. She knows a lot. And offers a different sort of insight on situations, one you don’t get from other Senators.” Julia commented, figuring Mira would quickly fall in step with her. “She can be an example of what to expect.” If Alys was curious about Mira, then certainly everyone would be. Maybe they’d have good thoughts, maybe negative ones. “You’re smart. You’ll learn how to handle the Senate quickly.” Julia doubted the situations would be new to Mira at all, it was just on a larger scale. And once she got the hang of it, she’d own it well.

In practice, it’s a tad more intricate. There were a few details that reading, research, small-scale assemblies couldn’t prepare someone for. But Julia had confidence in Mira. There was some quality about her that simply…set her apart from anyone else.

“Ah, I see August and Ransolm now,” she pointed out as she stepped outside.

 

[Lucyfer]

There was a twi’lek woman they left alive, wasn’t there? Kylo didn’t really remember her, he couldn’t even recall what color she’d been, but he remembered that the trio they fought had a twi’lek member. ‘If she is from Ryloth….’ Odds were good she was, after all, ‘Could she be leading this from Ryloth?’ What did she want, then? Revenge? He could understand revenge, though it didn’t seem like the Chiss came prepared to fight or take that revenge for her.

He still nodded slowly at the thought she was paid a visit, putting her in place in the scheme. “I forgot about the twi’lek,” he told Paquin when she began to state she wasn’t the right person, “Ariel and Gnaeus wouldn’t have known that,” he noted the way she said Ariel’s name, and did wonder about it.

Had Ariel done something or said something when he left them to check out what was going on outside?

“I’m not sure they’d know why Carida is important to Kevan or his group…,” though he supposed it was worth a shot. “Not that we can do anything about it,” a fist balled, “We can’t leave Korriban. We can’t do anything.” The fist slammed itself on the console, and the console sparked and buzzed, for a moment, and then went back to normal, not broken. Kylo hadn’t put that much strength into the hit, tempting as it had been.

The ship was still useful.

Snoke may still be able to figure something out about Ryloth and Carida, especially with the addition of the twi’lek he and Kylo had met. “Do you remember anything about that twi’lek?” Anything that could be relayed to either Ariel or Gnaeus, or to Snoke if it came to that.

He was also trying not to focus on the fact he was useless here on Korriban, which this ship reminded him of. He had the opportunity to leave at any time…but Snoke didn’t want them to do so. So he couldn’t. He couldn’t do what he was good at, and get to the bottom of this, or at least do something besides wait for his Knights to get their act together.

~***~

Finn didn’t really know all that much about fancy dress. He had dressed in a suit, and Mira had gotten a nice dress – but he knew what looked good, or he thought he did. Mira trusted him to get a dress for her before, right? So, he gave a contented nod, “I think gold is good for this,” it screamed of lux, didn’t it? And with her skintone, it wouldn’t be bland on her at all. It would really shine.

Ada smiled, glanced back at her wardrobe, but decided it was plenty good enough right then. She’d likely have time to consider fussing more over jewelry or hair styles, or second-guessing the dress, later. If Finn liked it, though, she’d probably wear it. “All right, I’ll set this one aside for tonight,” she moved it out of the closet and rested it over a nearby chair, while she began to pick back up the ones she’d laid out on the bed in her browsing. “Tell me about Rey. How’d you meet this one?” With her back to him, he wouldn’t see that teasing smile.

“We met on Jakku,” Finn said, coming forward to take a seat on the edge of the bed as his mom turned away to put up one of the dresses she grabbed, “She thought I killed Poe,” he laughed a bit, recalling the violent first meeting, “I was wearing his jacket, and she found his droid – it was a mess. We got attacked by the First Order and had to flee in the Millennium Falcon together, and then we met Han, and….”

Han.

Finn’s smile faltered, realizing that would should have been a happy, heroic story he could regale his mother with was not so happy. He met Han, and now Han was dead. He tried to run away, too. ‘But you didn’t.’ He told himself, “It was…it was a mess, but she was with me through it all,” and he’d been there for her. He made sure of that, made sure to get her back from the First Order. “I wouldn’t have found the Resistance without her and that droid.” Poe saved him, it was true, but he would have gone into obscurity without Rey.

Ada turned back to get another dress, but put a hand on Finn’s shoulder as she did so, and placed a kiss to his head as she noticed he seemed to be dwelling elsewhere, not looking at her, but looking at his hands, distracted, “She sounds lovely,” Ada said, drawing him back, “I look forward to meeting her. You’ve made such…strong-willed friends!” It seemed the case, though what else would she expect of rebels?

She was excited to meet them all. To see Finn’s world.

~***~

Mira took her drink, and took Ransolm’s, so that Julia wouldn’t have her hands too full, “Thank you, Alys,” she repeated the name she heard, inclining her head slightly. “I hope to see you again,” perhaps it would be good to have her to speak with. She was in a prime location to know lots about what was going on, and she was in good with the Tarkins. Julia liked her. There had to be a reason besides good coffee, right?

Not that Mira needed much more of a reason as she drank the mocha, only to nearly cough it out to ask Julia what color. She didn’t, just nodded as she was swallowing. “It changes with the energy, or whatever ghost wants to bother me,” or Snoke. Of course now she couldn’t hear the Ghosts. Too blocked. She had to be, to keep Snoke at bay, though.

Still, the temptation to relax…to reach out…it was definitely there. Not that she even knew if it would work.

Julia’s faith in her was more than Mira expected, in truth. She didn’t think Julia was just bullshitting her, and she lifted her gaze to the building her parents had fawned over, had dreamed of. ‘Another life, maybe.’ She never thought this one. It had been a dream of a girl who wanted to be all that her parents wanted. Not her. Not Mira. Ceres. It felt…strange. Wrong, in a way, and yet every step had to lead here if she wanted the Gray Jedi to rise, didn’t it? ‘Every path returns here.’

“I’ll try….” Her attention shifted forward to August and Ransolm as they were called out, and Mira immediately held out Ransolm’s tea when he came close enough.

“Thank you, Julia,” he said, taking it with a smile, “I think this is where my journey ends until tonight, August.”

August gave a nod, taking his own cup from Julia, “Thank you - try not to get murdered, Ransolm.”

“I always do.”

With that, Ransolm moved by them and on towards the café, as August took a long drink from his coffee, before asking it, “Anything I should know of?” Anything unusual, anything unexpected, before they made it to their place in the Senate? It was addressed to both, as he turned to walk on, holding his arm out briefly for Julia to take, which she did.

Mira shook her head – nothing that she knew. Not that she knew what to look for.

 

[KyloGlenn]

Paquin watched as Kylo’s fist hit the console, as it sparked briefly. She stared at Kylo’s hand, feeling the urge to reach out and attempt to ease him. But she refrained. She began to doubt that they even comforted anyone, not to mention she wasn’t sure what Kylo would appreciate and when. Or if. Her fingers twitched slightly, mad at Paquin for not reacting on her instinct.

Paquin was a handsy person, she knew this. She flailed her hands about when she talked, she was very touchy. It all paired well with her job. Or at least, her old job. She supposed her new…occupation could pair well, too. She just needed to figure out how, exactly.

Her attention was drawn back into the conversation, her eyes moving back to Kylo’s face as he asked her a question. He felt useless too. They were useless in different ways, but the feeling was the same. Reminding herself of Kylo’s question, she shook her head. “Not much. I know her skin was blue…her name was Neil? Nev? Something like that.” Paquin shrugged a shoulder. “I don’t think we’d be able to pick her out of all the twi’leks in the galaxy with that information.”

There were millions of twi’leks that were blue, that had names starting like Neil or Nev.

“Maybe Gnaeus and Ariel will know what to do with that.” Paquin glanced to the datapad and held it up, “If one of them can get into this thing, there might be some answers there.” But if they could and if there was, would they even do anything about it? She doubted Snoke would care much.

“We should head back.” She wondered if the other two knew they left yet or not. “They’re making their lightsabers, I don’t think I mentioned.” Paquin briefly commented. Maybe that would please Kylo in the slightest. Paquin then looked around at their surroundings. “What do you want to do with this ship?” She couldn’t imagine that they’d leave it, or destroy it.

-

Finn’s smile was brought back, although not as wide and radiant as it was before. “Yeah, I have.” Finn loved his friends. He wouldn’t be where he was without them and their strong-willed personalities. “I haven’t had the chance to tell Rey about you yet, but I know she’ll be excited to meet you.” He wondered when Rey and Luke would catch up with the rest of the Resistance. Soon, hopefully.

“You know I’ll be waiting to hear from you.” Ada smiled, squeezing Finn’s shoulder before turning and putting her clothes back in her closet. She wished she didn’t have to wait to hear from him or wait to see him again. She wished she could see him every day. But that was another unfortunate result of her son being taken from her. She got him back, and she wasn’t complaining. But he was an adult now. He had his own life already and his own things to do. As much as she just wanted to ask him to stay with her forever.

“I don’t think you know just how proud I am of yo—oh!” Ada began to say, turning to run right into Finn. He wrapped his arms around her in a hug, and she did the same.

“Thanks, Mom.” Finn rested his chin on top of her head, she was that short. “I knew you were out there somewhere. And you’re better than what I ever thought I’d have.” Finn always wondered about his mother, what she was like. He didn’t have to wonder anymore.

There was a faint knock, and the two turned to the doorway to see Mace. “Sorry to interrupt.” For once the words were genuine. There was something about seeing Ada and Finn that made what he said real. But he interrupted nonetheless. He couldn’t bear to sit in an awkward silence with Poe anymore. “Finn, we should start your training.” The droid beeped something about the Senate meeting starting soon. They’d work with that schedule.

Perhaps Mira might want her padawan after the meeting, so Mace would make sure they’d be done by then. They had an ample amount of time.

-

Mira offered nothing, not that there was anything to offer. And Julia stated as much. “No. Everyone seems to be caught up in Pandion’s death. Or the situation on Eriadu. Or in their own issues.” That’s what Julia observed from their time in the cafe, from some of the other Senators that lingered. “Nothing of interest.” Well, one interesting thing. And that was Mira’s color changing hair accessories.

Maybe Julia would mention them to August later. They were quite a curiosity.

“Did Carise take her suspension well?” Julia asked, already knowing the answer to that question. She wouldn’t have, but she had no choice. She could only imagine the glaring look she was giving Mira’s General boyfriend now.

The Senate building was just a short walk from the cafe, the sounds of paparazzi shouting questions and the shuttering of cameras were heard just as the large group and flashing lights were seen. Journalists like to hang around and try and get some last minute statements from Senators before the meeting began. But really they were there to hang around until the end.

The end, if there was anything exciting, was when they’d get the best soundbites or something for their article. When upset politicians would make rash, angry comments as they were harassed. Or prideful ones would boast about an accomplishment. Or make a defending statement. Reporters came from all sorts of planets to have a chance of getting something even vaguely controversial.

It was easy to tell when someone of importance was filing into the building as the crowd would move, to flock around them but still make room for them to walk into the building.

Before the three of them reached the crowd, Julia threw out some advice, considering she had swooped in to help Mira with the last crowd of reporters. “Here you may want to just get into the building. Ignore most questions, perhaps throw out some silly answers to appease the demons.” They usually asked all the same questions or questions they didn’t need to know the answer to yet. “Maybe choose to answer a few questions regarding the Gray Jedi, if asked. Keep the answers brief, to the point” Those statements would be good to get her organization out there.

Julia wasn’t sure how overwhelmed Mira might be by the questions and cameras, maybe she wasn’t at all. Julia still offered something. And Mira would get used to it eventually. They all did. Some people even grew to thrive from the attention.

 

[Lucyfer]

The twi’lek had been blue, with a name like Nev. It was absolutely nothing to go on and Kylo knew that. Especially as the name was likely just a shortened one. Twi’leks and Chiss tended to do that, to better fit in with humans. Their names were otherwise extraordinarily long and full of apostrophes or the like, denoting things important to them, but not at all to the human-centric society that the galaxy was becoming.

His eyes flickered down to the datapad. “They’re good with old things….” Jedi and Sith things. He didn’t know if either of them would be able to break into a datapad. “Maybe Ariel….” A trailing thought. He usually imagined her as the more criminally inclined one, even if they were all rather criminal. Still, he supposed it was worth a shot, and he gave a nod.

They’d have to try.

Even if it wouldn’t matter. Snoke wouldn’t let them leave here so easily, just because a random Chiss dropped by who knew Kevan. They weren’t ready.

When the lightsabers were mentioned, his hard expression faltered, softened. If he’d known, he’d forgotten. He knew it was a part of their goals, of course. “I wonder what color they’ll be,” he mused aloud, before being brought back to the present situation and the ship. ‘I wonder what color mine would be.’ If Mira now had purple, couldn’t his path have changed, too?

‘Red.’

He shook it off, “I’ll pilot this one back to where we’re staying. You can get the other ship, right?” He asked, figuring it was an easy enough request. He wanted to destroy this ship, but he knew that was just his anger talking. There could still be something useful here, too, something to be drawn out from the coordinates, or more.

~***~

Finn did regret having to pull away from Ada, and he did so slowly, keeping one arm around her shoulders, though, “Right, we should probably get to that,” he agreed. He didn’t really know where they’d go for the training, but he figured Mace an idea. If he didn’t, perhaps Poe could show them where the Resistance was hanging out? There had to be a space they could use among them, right?

“You two be safe,” Ada said as she walked with Finn towards the exit of her room, mostly looking to Mace with that. She knew exactly what he was famed for, and exactly what that could mean for Finn.

He still gave a nod, “We will be,” he reassured. He imagined he’d have to do so every single time. He never killed a padawan in training them. He easily could have, but he had control over himself and his lightsaber – it wouldn’t happen.

At the door, where Poe and BB-8 were waiting, as well, Ada pulled out from under Finn’s arm and reached up to adjust Finn’s collar, “And you, go out there and learn all you can. I know you have a lot of things to do and accomplish with the Resistance, the Gray Jedi, and your friends. Just don’t let it overwhelm you.” It seemed that when she met him, it hadn’t been so much. She didn’t even hear the term ‘gray jedi’ tossed around then.

Now he had a friend Rey with Luke, his friend Poe here was clearly someone to the Resistance, there was Mira, and there was Mace…if it wasn’t overwhelming Finn, it was overwhelming her, a bit. Whenever he came back, it felt like there were new and life-changing things going on with him.

It made her wish all the more he’d stay and have some peace. Some moments to recover and think through what was going on in his life. “I won’t. I’ll be good, mom.” He said, sounding firm in that resolve.

She smiled at it, before stepping back from her son. They’d hugged plenty, even if she couldn’t get enough, she had to let him go again. “It was nice to meet you, Poe. You take care of my boy out there, okay?”

“Yes ma’am!” Poe said, too quickly, he knew, but his smile and words were sincere. He’d hoped he’d made a good enough impression on her. “He’s safe with me, don’t worry.”

She’d try not to, and fail every time. With farewells said, Mace led the party out.

~***~

August allowed a deep rumble of laughter to escape him at the question of Carise and her suspension. The answer was obvious, but he answered it anyway, “Absolutely not – ah, there you are,” Toc finally returned, bounding along in the air, “You’ll have to stay outside,” he told the droid, “something about weapons, and arguing that they allow Force sensitives in won’t help me today,” other days, it would, but not when he had a literal Force sensitive with him.

Toc beeped out pouts, but would do as instructed and hover by the door they would enter in from, and so, would aim to exit from. August didn’t even bother to ask where Toc went. He was fairly certain Toc got lost in the crowd. He wasn’t the…smartest droid. He would keep the paparazzi a bit at bay. Not much – most had learned they wouldn’t really be hurt by such things.

They approached the busy senate house, and were swarmed.

August expected it, and heard Julia’s words, quiet enough, to Mira. He heard questions about the embargo of Eriadu. Of Snoke. Of Hux. Of Pandion. Mostly, they were focusing on the embargo, as that was why August was here.

Was he afraid he might be arrested for his forceful actions?

How did he think this related to the Naboo crisis, all those years ago?

What was his strategy, what was his plan?

He answered nothing. He walked on, as a few questions were even shouted at Julia, asking if she’d ever once thought of turning Eriadu over, turning August over, or signing things away and agreeing with the embargo. They always tried to test her faith and loyalty. She feigned ignorance, “Escargot? I’m not the one in this family that eats bugs,” she said, laughing it off, a silly answer as she’d suggested Mira to try.

And there were questions for her – she was certainly known now, and Mira did feel a bit overwhelmed. Were it not for the presence of August and Julia, she may have floundered – but they were there, and they were calm. She was better able to focus herself on that, and moving forward. The questions, if nothing else, were giving her things to think of.

Where were the Gray Jedi going to be based? Was she thinking of taking over the temples in Coruscant? How connected to the First Order were the Gray Jedi?

What did Gray Jedi even mean? Was it just another word for Sith?

She set her jaw on that one – she wanted to snap back ‘no’, but refrained from so much as a comment, not seeing, but feeling, the kybers shift then. Green. Qui-Gon was heated as well with that query, though she couldn’t hear him. Underneath that, though, there was a steady, light pulse of purple, her own focus pulling a bit on the Force to stay grounded.

And then, they were swept in – the movement of the senators almost making it easy to get to the right repulsorpod, and find a seat. “If I start getting gifts of bug candy or escargot, Julia, I’m holding you responsible.”

“You’ll enjoy it,” she teased, sitting back in her chair and drawing out the senate datapad as August put in the information to bring the pod to life around them, and set it up and out from others that weren’t in play. “At least we made it here in one piece,” she gave a smile to Mira, who returned it easily enough, even if some anxiety pulled at the corners, and her attention shifted outwards to all the others in their pods.

A central figure was soon before them all, and their voice boomed out: “Senators of the New Republic, this meeting has been called to address the actions of violence in the Seswenna Sector, begun by Senator—”

“Governor.” August hissed it under his breath.

“—August Tarkin of Eriadu.” Eyes shifted, cameras shifted. “Senator Tarkin, you stand accused of initiating an act of violence, and potentially, an act of war.”

“His world was put under an embargo by a group not a part of this New Republic - by a group that threatens the New Republic!” The voice was not one that that August expected to hear, and not in his defense. He looked out to the Gatalenta pod, and saw the usual Senator, alongside Amilyn Holdo.

It almost made him laugh. “Has everyone here forgotten Naboo?” A pointed gesture was made towards the current Queen and Senator of Naboo.

“We also stand in favor of Senator Tarkin’s decision,” the Queen spoke, rather than the senator. “This is an outrage that we are even discussing it.”

August cleared his throat, enough to draw attention back, “Queen Lisey, …Holdo,” she had no titles he was aware of, “I appreciate your support, however, in this respect I agree with the accusations. I acted rashly against a peaceful embargo, set upon me by a member of this body or not,” he answered, maintaining his calm. Holdo was here. This was…not what he was hoping for. She tended to throw a wrench in all his plans. “If we are to respect our own laws pertaining to each other, we must also show we are capable of respecting these laws against those outside of this body, if we want to entice them to join our governance. As such, I do accept my fault in acting, and should Supreme Leader Snoke wish to come and inform me of how we can begin to make amends, then I would be happy to discuss, with Senate mediation, what would be fair.”

The silence that followed was beautiful. August absolutely adored it, “Since he is not here, however, I suggest we move on to other topics of conversation.”

He saw Cibor, over with the Motti pod, slam his forehead into his hand. He wondered if it was what he’d done, or Julia’s escargot comment now hitting the HoloNet.

 

[KyloGlenn]

Paquin watched his features soften, the words had achieved their goal. He wondered what color their lightsabers would be, a collective wonder between all of them. Kylo wasn’t searching for an answer, so she didn’t give one. Not that she could actually guess, she didn’t have a grasp of how exactly lightsaber colors were decided, other than synthetic ones were what made the red ones.

“I can do that,” Paquin confirmed with a nod. That, at least, she could do. Maybe not expertly, but as long as Kylo didn’t turn and try to shoot her down as a training method, she’d be fine. But Kylo wouldn’t do that. Not when she’s in the good ship, at least.

Shaking her head lightly, she backed away, “I’ll follow you back, okay?” He knew the way back better than she did. In fact, she didn’t know the way back at all, everything on Korriban looked the same.

With that, she turned on her heels, exiting the newly acquired ship. She crossed the short, cold distance to Ariel’s ship, taking her non-typical spot in the pilot’s seat. Turning the ship on, she leaned back in her seat for a second, waiting for Kylo to settle and lift the other ship up so she could follow. She breathed in as she gently tossed the datapad into the passenger’s seat, her other hands pulling at tangles in her curls.

She wondered if Ariel and Gnaeus were still building their lightsabers, or if they were done and realized she and Kylo were gone. If they’d been alarmed by the dead body outside. She supposed she’d find out soon enough.

-

Finn, Poe, and BB-8 followed Mace’s lead, into the lift. There was a silence between them as they went down, but it was a content one. Or at least it was for Finn. It was a feeling that came after seeing his mom. He wondered, did everyone feel content after visiting their mom? Was that the normal or was it just because Finn had gone twenty-something years without her?

The ride down was long. Buildings in Coruscant were fascinating but much too big. As they neared the lobby floor, Mace pulled his hood over his head to conceal himself. Not that anyone would really be looking for the very dead former Jedi Master Mace Windu, but no one said anything about it.

The doors slid open and of course, Mace led them out. Finn spared a glance at the very uninterested receptionist. Finn hoped no one with ill intentions ever wandered in here because the receptionist wasn’t going to do anything about it.

Finn waited until they were out of the lobby before he spoke again, “Where are we going?”

The older man led the others, following a route from his memory. It was best to avoid the clutter that came with the Senate meeting, which would be difficult, but he took a more intricate way to their destination. “Jedi Temple,” Mace answered. He added to his words, bitterly, “Or what’s left of it.” The entire planet was a Force hub, but the actual scene would be just as well. Not that Mace had plans to teach much of the Force, but it would still do Finn well to learn to use it in combat.

“Isn’t that where we found Mira?” Poe asked Finn. BB-8 beeped, “Or where BB-8 found her. Sorry, buddy.” Had to give the droid credit apparently.

Finn nodded, remembering the memory fondly. Well, it wasn’t exactly the happiest memory. Mira hadn’t been in a good state, Kylo Res came along. But it’d been when he’d met Mira, which led to lots of good things.

-

“I’d like to mention the embargo that’s been placed around the planet that I represent by the leaders of some planets in the Seswenna Sector,” that whimsical Kaminoan voice was amplified throughout the senate house, not naming any exact names. It seemed that the defense of action against embargoes was being rather supported at the moment. Not by all, but by some vocal few. The Senator thought it would be a good time to mention it.

“Kamino is a peaceful planet. We’ve not been approached for negotiations nor confronted by the perpetrators for something that we may have done to cause the embargo—“

“We are not perpetrators, as we’ve done nothing illegal or harmful,” Caius spoke from his pod, causing Alexander to go quiet as he was bitching to those he shared a pod with. “Kamino possesses the technology to produce clones, does it not? The attackers on Cimarosa were clones. Snoke’s forces are clones. After the embargo on Eriadu, we’re simply concerned is all.” That was not at all the reason.

“The embargo that Tarkin acted on violently.”

“Governor Tarkin,” Caius put emphasis on Governor, “has admitted that his actions were rash and inappropriate. He’s made his statement that he’s willing to discuss these issues with Snoke. The embargo on Kamino is a peaceful one—“

“A common theme seems to be that these embargoes do not end peacefully,” the Kaminoan senator interrupted.

“No harm has come to Kamino due to the embargo, has it? The embargo can be discussed but I believe there are more issues that could use discussion. The murder attempt on Chandrila senator seems rather interesting. Or even the resurfacing of some old history that perhaps could stand to be regulated. Such as Snoke’s Force-sensitive accomplices. Or this Jedi Guide that’s rapidly gained popularity.” Caius kept his suggestions vague enough to be touched on, as August wanted to push the Gray Jedi and push out the old fashioned Jedi for good.

With his statements, Caius muted himself, sitting back in his pod.

 

[Lucyfer]

Paquin was agreeable, but left too soon. Not that there was a point to lingering, but Kylo felt her absence all the same, and was almost surprised by his own wish for company. He didn’t feel alone, but he didn’t feel at peace once she was gone. It was as if she’d been helping with a weight that pressed down on him the moment she left, and he could only associate it again with the losses this stranger’s arrival reminded him of – Kevan and Mira.

Thoughts of lightsabers and colors still lingered in his head as he forced himself through the motions of starting the ship up to lead Paquin back. Mira’s was no longer green. His would not be blue, ever again. He tried to imagine a reality where it would be any color but red, but the image wouldn’t stick. The red bled through any other hue he tried to put over it, frustratingly so that he gave up and tried to stick his attention instead to piloting.

He knew the way back, though. It was too easy.

At least there was a waiting distraction. Gnaeus, at least, was outside and standing near the body. He seemed to have started to turn away, but paused at the sight of the arriving ships. There he waited, and Kylo was quick to get out of this stolen vessel and leave behind the chill that lingered within. “Who was this?” Gnaeus asked immediately when Kylo exited the ship.

“Friend of Kevan,” Kylo responded bluntly, and watched as Gnaeus went pale. “It’s been dealt with. I’ll inform the Supreme Leader of this breach,” with the words out, he damned himself to the action. Even if it would allow them nothing more, even if they knew nothing more about this individual, “I take it you know nothing about him, then?”

Gnaeus shook his head, “Kevan didn’t…well, you know how he liked to use nicknames.” Gnaeus sighed. His excitement of his own new lightsaber was forgotten.

~***~

It was no surprise to Mace that Mira would have been found in the Jedi Temple. The ruins had served him well in the past, too. It was easy enough to imagine it would be useful to a runaway Knight of Ren. He felt no need to comment on it. He had no reason to reminiscence on the situation. “How was it – before?” He heard Finn ask that, and his eyes lifted.

It felt like it had been higher, but he knew that wasn’t true. The Jedi Council Room had been higher, the Temple more accessible to the general public. Still, the Council had felt like it, at times. He thought to suggest there were pictures, Finn could find them and take a look, but that seemed too callous, so he offered, “It was one of the few places of peace on Coruscant. One of the few places with any actual nature, too.” The city was overrun with tall buildings and man-made structures. They’d lost much of the natural beauty.

He almost liked the temple now. That nature was exerting itself over the fallen pillars, and through the mosaic ground. He could see it then, and heard BB-8 beep out more on how it would have liked to seen the Temple in its glory.

“You and me both, pal,” Poe agreed, and clapped a hand down on Finn’s shoulder. It was loud enough to give Mace pause and look back over at them, “I think I should head on back – check on Leia, and see if I can get that interview with Suralinda over real quick. You gonna be all right?” He asked Finn, searching his face to make sure he wouldn’t feel abandoned with his father. There wasn’t much more Poe could do, and even if it would be exciting to watch Mace and Finn, his sense of duty was nagging at him again.

~***~

August did feel smug as the Kamino senator was already aware of the embargo. Alexander had done him proud, and he decided to add, “The embargo will remain peaceful unless you wish to act against it, Senator,” he kept his gaze calm, “And if you choose to do so, we will be meeting here again to discuss compensation.” The glint in his eyes said enough.

“We would never think to act out against a peaceful embargo, Senator Tarkin.” The title of governor was again neglected. August resisted the strong urge to roll his eyes, “Let us move on to other matters then – perhaps the resurgence of the Force, or the Jedi?” Discussing the attempt on the Senator of Chandrila’s life was definitely not a priority to them.

“What point is there to discussing the Jedi without Luke Skywalker here?” Another senator inquired.

“We don’t have Luke, but I overheard Julia mentioning another in the café! She’s with Governor Tarkin,” a more cheery voice rang out.

“If anything, Luke’s absence is all the more reason to discuss it,” Seig broke in, “Luke Skywalker, a hero of the Rebel Alliance to be sure, and once Master of the Jedi, vanished years ago. The children in his care, perished. This is a story we all know,” Seig said, “He has never come to explain himself. He has never sought position here. It seems he may have realized the error of his ways, and so, of the Jedi. We need to address the matter of the Jedi, of the Force, and of its position in relation to our governance, before it can be used against us.”

“The way Governor Tarkin used forgotten Imperial Edicts that allow the Seswenna Sector to have a military?”

August smirked, but leaned forward to speak, “Precisely. Anyone claiming to be a Jedi could waltz right in and claim the Jedi seat on the council. That has never been formally removed, nor do we have set standards by which we could determine who would even be deserving of a seat.”

“The Jedi Guide has outlined some things,” another senator noted in a more contemplative tone, “but we wouldn’t truly know if someone has obtained the rank of Master…nor do we have a Jedi Council any longer to bestow such ranks,” their brows deepened in thought.

“Correct,” Governor Tarkin agreed, “in light of how little we know of the Jedi, and new groups rising up such as the Gray Jedi that Master Vallens represents,” he gestured to Mira, who kept her look up, smiled, but did not speak out of turn, “the Knights of Ren that Snoke seems to head, the Sith which does not seem active at this time, and the Acolytes of the Beyond, I move that we take a vote on removing the chair for the Jedi Counsellors,” he could hear the outrage immediately, but spoke over it, “or,” he emphasized it to silence, “we create standards by which one would be allowed to take the seat.”

“That would take quite a bit of time – and we only have one representative here of this – what is it, Gray Jedi? How is that even different from the Jedi?”

“Not to mention she’s Sith.” The Senator Mira had met once upon a time in a strip club, “And going by Ren at that time.”

“No! She’s like the Jedi – or so she said when we met, when she was with the Knights of Ren.” Said one from the meeting with Hux, what felt like a lifetime ago.

“Master Vallens, do you care to address this matter?”

Mira gave a nod and rose, as August stepped aside. She felt the tension hit immediately as the eyes fell upon her, and she gave a deep inclination of her head, “Thank you for allowing me a moment, Senators. I am Master Mira Vallens of the Gray Jedi. I have been a part of the Knights of the Ren, and as General Hux, I have defected from their ranks upon many realizations over the years, notably that Supreme Leader Snoke is no different from a Sith – so I do understand the confusion that I may have once been Sith,” she addressed that accusation no further. It could be problematic, “It was not what Snoke had spoken of when I was introduced to him. He spoke of balance between Light and Dark in the Force, terms I am sure many of you are familiar with, signifying the Jedi and the Sith, but in truth he is only concerned with extinguishing the Light.” Her eyes fell on the Senator from the meeting with Hux.

Mira paused a moment, not for want of anything, but with a pressure that rose. Snoke was paying attention. The kybers in her hair turned stark red, and she folded her hands behind her back as she felt the threat of lightning, but took a deep breath, forced herself to focus. She had sleep. She had food. She was doing better now – she could endure this easier.

August whispered, “Senator Quillin,” giving her the name of the individual.

“Senator Quillin, you recall that I did compare the Knights of Ren to the Jedi. What I described to you at that time was still the hope I was clinging to of what they would become, when peace was achieved in the galaxy. I apologize for misleading; I was misled myself. The Gray Jedi will be more akin to that, and will focus on Balance.”

“Balance is well and good,” another sniped, “to you – I’m sure. We have no idea what that means, and how do we know the Gray Jedi aren’t misleading you?”

“I am the founder of the Order, I do not think I will be misleading myself,” Mira couldn’t help the comment, even if it wasn’t the most tactful. The pressure was relentless, but she found her mantra easily returned in her mind, a calm repetition as she kept her focus forward. “As for Balance, and your idea of it – it is one thing I intend to see changed about how the Jedi Order was run. I found the Jedi Guide on Jakku, and I have had copies made of it and spread, in an effort to get information out about the Force, and the Jedi organization. I could not have done this without other willing assistants. The future of the Gray Jedi will be that open and accessible.”

“The future? Why not the present?”

“I’m busy with a war right now, that is why.” It was snapped, more than she wanted it to be.

“So the Gray Jedi will not strive to be peace keepers as the Jedi? They will be warmongers?”

“Are the Gray Jedi aligned with the First Order?” This was Holdo, who didn’t seem the most pleased with this, despite being aware of Leia Organa’s own move to join with them, “I’ve heard tell that Governor Tarkin sold his soul to them – it would explain why he’s eager to address the matter of the Jedi chair now, especially with Luke far from making an appearance.”

Mira felt her brow crease and her gaze harden. A jolt of lightning lanced across her own arm, but she hoped it was hidden well enough behind her back, and with August’s own form playing a bit of shielding.

Seig intervened, either way, “Are we still calling the Jedi peacekeepers after the Clone War?” He laughed it off, “The Jedi lied to us, our history is painted with war and strife involving the Jedi, at least she’s not here pretending. Perhaps she supports the First Order, but I doubt her padawan, Finn – a First Order defector – does.”

Mira tried to relax her posture, and August put a hand on her shoulder, and pressed down. She followed it, and quickly took her seat once more, folding her hands in her lap and bowing her head, trying not to focus on the words flowing around her, but back on maintaining her control.

“If nothing else, this conversation is not going to get anywhere fast, and while I’m used to tedious conversation in this Senate,” some chuckles, some groans, “the matter of the place of the Jedi, or other organizations like them, should be left to a special council. I think we can all agree on that, and perhaps even agree to set aside any chair for any random person who wants to waltz in and claim to be a Jedi Master. I’d like to make a motion to bring that to a vote, with the addendum that we will set up a council to investigate the matter in more detail, and determine the place of these Force-based organizations. After all, we haven’t even touched on the Nightsisters, or the Guardians of the Whills—”

“Do those even still exist?”

“—and we know less about them. Of course the Nightsisters still exist, Senator Kontress is one,” he gestured to the Zabrakian woman, who suddenly had several eyes on her.

“I second the motion,” Kontress said immediately, before the conversation could twist to accuse her of being a Sith, as well. “There is a lot this body needs to learn about the Force and its practitioners before it is determined if certain organizations attuned to the Force have a place in it.”

“Third,” August added in a bored tone.

 

[KyloGlenn]

Paquin followed swiftly after Kylo, landing right after he did. Paquin retrieved the datapad from the passenger's seat and stood from the pilot’s seat. Slipping out if the ship, she noted Kylo and Gnaeus, talking over the dead Chiss man. As she moved to join the men, Ariel emerged from their base as well.

Ariel had taken a bit longer to finish her lightsaber. It had been a long while since she’d even had to make a lightsaber. But once she was done, she held off from looking at the color of it. She wanted to react to it with everyone else. Except, that she couldn’t even find anyone once she left her room. Gnaeus wasn’t in his room and Paquin and Kylo were nowhere to be seen.

That raised some concern in Ariel, but that evaporated when she stumbled outside to find all her people. Only for it to be replaced with confusion as she observed the scene. “What…the fuck?” She questioned as she neared her fellow Knights.

Her eyes moved about, looking at the newly acquired ship, the dead body, and once she got close enough, Paquin’s bruised face.

This time, Paquin explained. “One of Kevan’s friends decided to visit. He wasn’t very friendly.” And that’s why he was dead. Paquin still didn’t like the dead body sitting right at their doorstep, but she ignored it for the moment.

Paquin decided that whatever was on the datapad could wait. It’s not like they’d be going anywhere fast. She instead placed her hand on Gnaeus’s shoulder to turn him around and to usher the other three away from the dead man. “Come on. He’s taken care of,” she insisted. “Kylo and I were both wondering what colors your guys' lightsabers would be. Right, Kylo?” She attempted to change the subject.

Ariel just looked between Paquin and Kylo, then at the dead body. They probably, definitely had to tell Snoke about this. Which made her the slightest bit uneasy. But Ariel still welcomed Paquin’s distraction. She even decided on her own distraction, something that could probably get them in more trouble than Kevan’s dead friend. Not that Ariel intended on letting Snoke find out.

Ariel made a point to place herself next to Kylo and wrap her hands around his forearm, in a ‘Paquin’ fashion. “That’s cute of you, Kylo.” She spoke, purposefully ignoring Paquin’s ‘both’ part. Kylo would definitely know she was acting weird and she honestly hoped he figured out why. But for the sake of getting a reaction out of Paquin, she hoped Kylo wouldn’t violently rip his arm away too soon. Not that it would matter.

Paquin couldn’t help the pointed glare at where the two connected, before making quick work of averting her gaze, ignoring the strange, tight feeling in her chest. Like she was…’Disappointed?’ What was she disappointed about?

-

Finn’s wondrous gaze was pulled from the fallen temple, pulled from his curious thoughts. He wondered what Mira might have to say about the place, but that was a question for later. “Yeah, yeah, go ahead. I know you’ve got stuff to take care of.” Finn didn’t really want Poe to go, but Finn wasn’t going to keep him around for his own reasons. Poe had a job to take care of.

And Finn would be fine without him.

“Tell Leia I said hi. And if you need anything, you know where we are, yeah?”

“Yeah! I’ll see you later, buddy, okay? Be safe, you two. Don’t wanna get in trouble with your mom.” Poe teased, a smile on his face. Finn couldn’t help but grin, too. “You staying here, BB-8?” Poe questioned his droid, earning a beep in response. “Alright. You’re stealing my droid, Finn.” Poe chuckled, before giving Finn a second clap on the shoulder. His hand lingered for a second before he let go, giving a two-finger salute to Mace.

“Bye, Poe,” Finn said, BB-8 beeping something similar. Once Poe had turned and was out of sight was when Finn’s attention returned to his father. “I guess we should get started, right?” He questioned, pulling his—well not his—lightsaber out of his jacket pocket. Might not’ve been the safest place for the weapon, but it’s what Finn had to work with.

BB-8 rolled out of the way but beeped out about how great it thought Finn was at combat. How brave. It had seen Finn in action on multiple occasions! BB-8 thought Finn was the best.

-

“Fourth,” Caius easily added. It would all go around, gather everyone’s yes’ and no’s. Caius wasn’t looking to wait his turn exactly.

“Of course, you’re backing whatever Senator Tarkin says.” Senator Calla spoke up. She hailed from a rather Populist leaning planet, New Republic supporters. Really with Senator Calla at the helms, she just liked to fight whatever anyone considered a ‘centrist’ might say. Even if it contradicted her or her planets history. It was a rich Core world, so there was no surprise there. She had no idea what it was like to have a planet to truly take care of.

The Core was majorly a protected part of the galaxy.

Caius bit back a childish counter. “Perhaps. And perhaps I simply have the same views as him.”

“I feel as though with a decision to bring back Force-users into the Senate, there should be more individual thought. I personally feel that in recent years, the Force and its users have brought nothing but trouble. I don’t think we should even consider allowing it back in the Senate.”

“This vote is simply to look further into it, to bring up the conversation and bring these Force-wielders forward. Perhaps it’s failed in the past for the reason that most of the galaxy held no understanding of what the Jedi or the Sith or the Force was. This is an opportunity to learn. It should at least be considered.” Another politician piped in. “I’m in favor of the motion.”

It seemed from that point, the whole building erupted into commotion. The Jedi in politics and as peacekeepers had been gone for decades at that point, Luke Skywalker’s academy burning to the ground before anything could be officially re-established. And with Snoke and the Knights? It seemed the galaxy all had different opinions on Force-users.

Especially this “Grey Jedi” who was already aligned with the First Order. And Order that destroyed an entire system of planets just to test the weapon.

But in the end, the vote seemed to be in favor of the Force. It seemed the majority of the Senate at least had some favorable thoughts on the Jedi, even if it was just because Luke Skywalker held the lift door open for them or because they knew someone who’d heard of the Nightsisters. Or even a few who thought that maybe the Sith were onto something.

Or maybe they were convinced by this new public figure in the form of Mira Vallens.

Whatever the reason, Tarkin’s motion was passed, but not without complaint. Many came from planets in the Mid or Outer Rim whose planets were torn apart by Darth Vader and Palpatine or even had history where the Jedi failed them. It was controversial, to say the least.

It definitely already had media outlets talking, something that Cybor silently observed.

-

Hux had ended up pulling Carise out of the conference room shortly after they had been left. He’d gotten tired of her angered looks and the stiff air. And there was no way to monitor the Senate meeting, something which Hux would usually pay some attention to if he hadn’t been busy with Sindian. The Senate affected him and his Order, after all.

Or at least, that’s what he used as an excuse to watch Mira’s Senate debut.

So that’s how the two of them ended up at the cafe August had spoken about, Hux gripping Carise’s arm for most of the time. Hux new they’d probably be spotted and there’d quickly be some big story about how Hux had moved on from his blonde companion already. He didn’t care, really. He just found it fascinating how the media cared so much about who a planet-destroying General of a military organization may be seeing.

“I’m not going to run off,” Carise hissed to him under her breath.

“I’m sure you won’t. What do you want?” He dismissed her easily.

“Skinny caramel macchiato, iced.” Carise found it humorous that he was getting her coffee. Not only because he liked to boss her around where he had no right, but she also knew that he would likely be dead in a short amount of time and she’d look back on this, speaking to wherever the dead General may end up, telling him he should have been nicer to her.

“Fine, go find a table.” He shooed her, not even bothering to ridicule her drink. Instead, he went and ordered her fancy beverage and his own simple coffee from the pink-toned barista. It was such a mundane task but out of the ordinary for Hux. He accepted the coffees, however, and returned to Carise at the table she’d chosen. No thank you’s were exchanged, certainly not as a certain someone made an appearance on the screen in the corner next to them.

“I knew you didn’t just want coffee. You wanted to see your pretty little girlfriend.” Carise teased, only to be ignored. Carise briefly wondered what would come of Mira after Hux was gone, but she realized that Brendol, Snoke, they probably wanted her just as dead.

Hux watched the screen rather anxiously. Not because he was nervous Mira might say something that wouldn’t be favorable to the Order. But just anxious for her sake. The Senate could be overwhelming.

But even so, Hux felt a swell of pride. Not because he took credit for her, but just as her friend, he was proud to see her on the screen, speaking of what she believed in.

 

[Lucyfer]

Gnaeus certainly had more questions to ask, like if Kylo had a name – or a nickname. And Kylo had considered offering both of which he’d cleaned from the mind of the Chiss, after Gnaeus mentioned the nickname thing. Perhaps he had heard one of the names in passing, and knew something more about the stranger? Yet, already, Paquin was turning Gnaeus away, leading them off, claiming it was handled.

Hardly.

He considered saying as much, but felt hands snake around his arm, and he looked down to see Ariel there. Telling him it was cute he wanted to know about the lightsabers. Confusion crossed his expression at her behavior, and he lifted his shoulder in a shrug to lift his arm up, as his other hand moved to try and brush her hands off of his arm, wondering if Ariel had too much to drink. He stopped questioning her ability to get alcohol.

Gnaeus saw the reaction, even if Kylo didn’t, and he bit the inside of his cheek to keep from commenting on it. He instead lifted the fake arm Paquin insisted he keep wearing, and made to pat her back as a comforting gesture, and to keep them turned from the body, “Come on, we can show you the lightsabers inside,” not out here, in the sun, with the dead body. He’d urge Paquin to keep walking, offer a distraction, “I bet you can’t guess the color.”

“Yellow,” Kylo couldn’t help but snap the color idea as he stalked from Ariel to catch up with Paquin and Gnaeus.

“No,” Gnaeus shook his head. At least, his wasn’t yellow.

~***~

Mace waited until Poe was gone, though it seemed BB-8 was going to stay. It was an interesting little astromech, clearly concerned with Finn. He wondered at its programming that it would forsake Poe to watch Finn, but decided not to question that much more, or the relationship his son had with Poe.

Now was not the time for that, now was the time to teach Finn how to defend himself in this world. If he was his flesh and blood, he should be able to handle Form VII.

Well protected by the ruins, Mace flipped his hood, and then discarded the robe entirely. He still wore attire similar to the Jedi, the dark blue tunic and black slack, with the belt that held his lightsaber, still reminiscent of them. “All right, Finn – I want you to come at me first, show me what you have.” Mace said, before illuminating his own purple lightsaber. He’d never lost it.

Finn’s attention turned from the sights of the temple, to that purple saber, and he was caught by surprise by its hue. Mira had one just the same, after all. He didn’t know if it was rare, or if it was normal, but he knew he’d seen a lot of blue and red ones. His mind naturally put the colors together, “So does a purple lightsaber mean something like…dark side and light side together?” He asked, illuminating his stolen red one.

Mace screwed up his face a bit at the question. “What?”

“I just mean – I see a lot of Jedi, or really, one Jedi, with a blue lightsaber, but all the Sith? Knights of Ren? They have red lightsabers. And if you mix red and blue together, you get purple….” And Mace seemed to sort of turn from the Jedi, and Mira turned from the Knights of Ren….

“I suppose it has some significance…,” Mace knew his own style relied on use of the dark side and proper channeling of emotions, “The form I use, vaapad, relies on the dark side of the Force. It channels my own darkness into a weapon of the light.” Truths he’d told many Jedi before. He’d found this way in his youth, “But that’s getting away from the matter at hand. I want to see what you can do.”

“Are you sure we should be using lightsabers?”

“You’re not gonna hurt me.” He was full of confidence, enough to agitate Finn a little, as he felt he was being put down by it. Mace felt that swell of anger, even if it was nothing compared to rage, it was still there. He took insult from truth.

“We’ll see, old man.” Finn stated, and rushed him, taking his training from his time as a stormtrooper under Phasma and putting it to use then.

Mace read him. He dodged, blocked, and read Finn easily with each step. There was a touch of savagery to it that Mace wondered at, as Finn tried to rain down blows, and kept pushing – he wasn’t sure that was First Order taught, but then, he didn’t know Phasma, either, or who taught Finn.

Finally though, Mace decided to show Finn why he’d claimed he wouldn’t touch him.

He pulled back, and left himself open, arms widening in a taunting gesture as he let Finn’s own anger at the taunt pull through him, and let his own glee at combat return, and set his mind into the focus needed for vaapad. As Finn rushed in again, Mace slashed upwards, the sheer strength coursing through him, through the Force, easing letting him knock Finn’s lightsaber up and out of the way.

He stepped around Finn as he tried to bring the lightsaber down and back into a more usable place, but didn’t budge. Mace thrust his own lightsaber, right in front of Finn’s eyes, halting his movement then and there as the purple blade hummed before him.

“Okay…okay you’re good,” Finn said, finally stepping back and pulling his mesmerized gaze from the purple, shaking his head and closing his eyes to try and clear that bright color from his eyes. When he opened them, the color still seemed burned into his retinas, painting everything purple. “How are you still so good?”

“The Force,” Mace answered easily, “and maybe not giving up my practices,” he smirked a bit. “I’ll teach you, but you’re going to have to trust me now, because this style will test you, and you’re going to have to learn to use your anger, and that savagery, and focus both to put your opponent off their balance, and win. You’re going to have to want to win, and to learn to enjoy winning, and battles, to truly master vaapad. Otherwise you’re gonna get stuck in one of the less effective forms.”

~***~

It was easy for Mira to start to tune out the noise, and focus. As soon as she’d regained that, in the peace that followed August relieving her from talking, she was able to regroup. Snoke didn’t quite give up immediately, but it came to pass that the pressure relented and his presence was lost. Snoke must have known that with Mira having some respite, some rest, he wouldn’t succeed from so far away.

The vote did pass, to Mira’s pleasure, and August amusingly stuck a hand back for Julia to high-five, as the senate continued to bicker for a while longer – most of the outspoken ones clearly having wished for the seat to be completely removed, not temporarily removed, though there were a couple others who instead wished Luke had been there to right the wrongs of this vote to remove the seat – even temporarily.

Their bitching was allowed to carry on a bit, before order was restored, and talk of who would be in the group was set aside for world leaders to consider, though some names were thrown into the ring already. The conversation tried to twist its way back to embargos, and how maybe, just maybe, these shouldn’t be allowed willy-nilly, but that conversation itself twisted back to the First Order, to Snoke, to Eriadu, and naturally – to war.

“We keep talking about acts of war,” this was Holdo now, interrupting again, “and embargos as acts of war. Are you all forgetting Hosnian Prime?”

There was a loud, “Thank you!” from someone.

“Is the literal destruction of an entire system of planets not an act of war this body should be concerned with?”

“Amilyn Holdo, with all due respect, you’re not a senator and—”

“Then I’ll say it!” Maresa interrupted, “The Hosnian Cataclysm was an act of war by the First Order! If we should be addressing any acts of war, and what our response should be, it should be that!”

“Senator Papilion is correct,” August interjected as the outrage and talk of funding began, cutting them off, “Except that it was an act of war by Supreme Leader Snoke.”

“Bullshit!” Someone shouted, but others – those who faced persecution from the Empire, or recalled how they had been made to do acts they didn’t agree with – perhaps not necessarily because of the Force, but still – were more inclined to accept the words. “You’re just trying to protect that bastard!”

“I assure you, I am not, I’d see him fall just as soon as Snoke if he thinks to use our current military alliance to further Snoke’s agenda, but that is the point. What I have learned of the division between Snoke and Hux has proven to me that while the First Order may end up becoming a concern, in regards to the one to hold responsible for the Hosnian Cataclysm, we must look at the leader – and the leader was Supreme Leader Snoke. We can add in the attack at Cimarosa, and if you want to continue to throw embargoes under the starship as bad things, we can add in the embargo of Eriadu, but I find that not to be necessary.” To keep his embargo on Kamino.

“I’m sure you’d blame the Emperor for all of Wilhuff’s atrocities, too, wouldn’t you?”

August smiled, “Of course I would. Everything he did was under the command of the Emperor. Lothal, Alderaan…the blame all falls to Sheev Palpatine.” There were some who flinched at how casually he called him that – Sheev Palpatine. Some who were reminded that August had still enjoyed a certain familiarity with him, and could blame all of his past actions on him, just the same.

“Didn’t respect the ginger code with the Emperor.” Someone dared to mutter, and there were smatterings of laughter – and one embarrassed senator who clearly didn’t mean for that to be heard. Even August laughed, before it settled back into semi-rational conversation.

“Either way, we hardly have the fleet now, nor the funding—”

Someone let out an expletive, and the arguing began all over again in earnest. To Senator Tarkin’s surprise, he was not the one to suggest war or push for the motion – that honor belonged instead to the belligerent Senator of Lonera, who not so long ago had tried to declare war on August for militarizing his sector, Ilveran Diosce. He actually had to smile at the black-furred Loneran, before making sure to voice in favor and try to force the vote.

It didn’t occur. A recess was demanded, as war was ‘too delicate a matter to declare hastily’. They would reconvene within a couple of days, to allow senators to touch base with the worlds they represented, and consider the best course of action.

“Cowards….” That was Ilveran’s parting words, before he sent his repulsorpod back to its place.

“I’m inclined to agree with him,” August said, smirking, “I think I may be sick,” but his own pod was on its way back, the day over, and some victories, at least, struck.

 

[KyloGlenn]

Paquin knew the Chiss situation wasn’t handled, not completely. There was a name, a couple names that they had. Sort of, Paquin didn’t exactly remember the twi’leks name. But besides that. And there was the datapad that still could be brought up. But the four of them had nothing but time until Snoke decided to call on them to do something again, which wasn’t clear how soon that would be.

Paquin figured they had time to discuss it. And not let it overshadow the accomplishments of Gnaeus and Ariel. Even if it was small, repairing the damage done by Mira, it was still something they succeeded in. She felt that should be highlighted, as they hadn’t had many wins.

The brunette took comfort in Gnaeus’s gesture, and easily accepted the distraction while Ariel stumped, wondering if Paquin and Kylo were just hopeless as they seemed to ignore obvious signs. Ariel sped up to a job until she caught up with them. “I don’t even know what color mine is yet, I was waiting for you guys.” She chimed in as she joined the group. She hadn’t turned it on, so there was a chance it could blow up in all their faces. She didn’t think it would, though.

“I don’t even know what colors they could be,” Paquin mused. All she knew was red, blue, green, and apparently purple. For all she knew there was an endless amount of colors and shade. “Um, orange?” She offered to Gnaeus, worried she’d sound stupid by suggesting the color. “Maybe green for you,” Paquin said as she glanced back to Ariel. The only logic behind it was that it would compliment her red hair, her eyes. Ariel was pretty wasn’t she? Almost obnoxiously so…

But there wasn’t really any ‘Force science’ behind the color decision.

“I hope it’s black. To fit my aesthetic. Though, maybe that would be more Kylo’s.” Ariel teased their emo Commander. “Gnaeus, you wanna show yours off first? In case mine blows up and kills and or blinds us all, we’ll have at least seen yours.” She asked as they found themselves inside, though they needed a bit more of an open space to showcase the weapons. Didn’t want to destroy the walls or the kitchen with their laser swords.

-

Mace asked Finn to trust him, but Finn didn’t really think Mace would be the easiest to trust. Mace Windu, the man who disappeared when the galaxy needed the Jedi the most. Stayed in hiding for decades instead of gaining courage and trying his best to help. The man who bailed on his mom, whether he knew she was pregnant or not. He was hesitant to help in the first place, anyway.

But at the same time, Finn didn’t think Mace had any bad intentions, for him or anyone. And Finn himself had once tried to run, too. He didn't, but he'd wanted to.

Finn supposed the thing that made him cautious was learning to use his anger and ‘savagery’ as Mace put it. Finn wanted to win every fight he was in, and he loved the act of it. It was one thing he enjoyed during his training as a Stormtrooper, training in combat. Maybe not so much using his training against people who didn’t deserve it. But Finn strived to win and he loved the thrill of the battle.

But Finn associated anger and savagery, particularly with lightsaber fighting, with Kylo Ren. He remembered, in the woods when he was fighting with the monster. Finn felt the anger in him. And he could so clearly see that Kylo enjoyed every second that he was inflicting pain on him, on Rey. He enjoyed every second that he was winning.

Finn had been so panicked when he woke from that, he was so worried about Rey. He knew she was strong and skilled, but he didn’t know how well she could hold up against that… ’Beast. Demon. I need more names for something absolutely inhuman.’ Finn thought because he truly believed Kylo Ren had no ounce of humanity left in him. Not anymore, anyway. Maybe once upon a time.

Finn was tempted to ask Mace what form Kylo Ren used but didn’t for the fact that Mace had never seen Kylo Ren fight.

“Well, no one wants to lose,” Finn mumbled. “And I can enjoy fighting. Especially when I’m fighting for something I believe in.” Finn compared his first battle for the First Order to his first with the Resistance. How he hated being a part of the massacre of innocence, and then how he felt when he knew he was doing the right thing. Fighting an organization that cared so little for normal, harmless lives. He imagined himself, even if it was unlikely to be his fight, maybe stabbing Kylo…or Snoke.

He still didn’t believe Hux was different from that. But if Mira believed it…they’d just have to see. Finn was worried that one day she’d let her feelings for Hux get in the way.

Mace almost snorted at Finn’s grumble. He reminded him more and more of Ada. “Yeah, I can see that in you.”

“So, how do I learn to channel my anger into a form, exactly?” Did he have to learn certain moves? Or would it come naturally? And Finn briefly wondered if Mira would approve of this. If she had a way she wanted to teach him. And then he wondered how she was doing.

-

“It seems as though no one here ever really wants to get anything done.” Julia mused as their pod returned. Even if something was broke, many were hesitant to fix it. Particularly if their world wasn’t affected. But either way, most seemed to be afraid or possibly intimidated by change. Perhaps because they lived in fear of the re-entering a tyrannical reign and a war-torn galaxy.

Cowards indeed.

There was bustle as everyone filed out of their pods and Julia’s hand found it’s way to Mira’s shoulder, gentle as not to startle her. “I hope the Senate was everything you dreamed it to be.” Julia chuckled ever so lightly. The Senate could be a mess, especially that day. “You’re very well spoken,” she commented, altering the subject. “You did well, for your first Senate meeting. Didn’t she August?” Julia wasn’t actually looking for August’s opinion on the matter.

Mira did do well, all things considered. She went in with likely most of the house not particularly favoring her for a multitude of reasons. Yes, Mira did have a few moments where she snapped and was perhaps a bit snarky, but she’d learn how to mind that. And when she could be appropriately snarky. And yes, Julia had taken note of the lightning, though she didn’t think anyone outside of their pod had noticed.

It would have been mentioned if it was. Exploited perhaps.

It fascinated Julia, the lightning. For Palpatine used it as a weapon, but she couldn’t tell if Mira could even control it or not. If she could, why would she do it at such a moment? Of course, she knew it wasn’t appropriate to bring up.

The Motti's and Cybor were already waiting for the Tarkin's and their plus one by the time they’d abandoned their pod. The two brothers seemed to be talking about something.

“I’m glad they took notice of the embargo so quickly,” Alexander’s boasts could be heard as the trio neared him. “Now all we have to do is raid the damn planet.” Alexander was always eager to start something, wasn’t he?

“Not in the plans, not now, at least.” Caius discouraged.

“It would be so easy, no one can get in or out. They’re in buildings on water, it would be simple to just, destroy the foundations. Drown them. Storm in and see if Snoke is still there. Maybe we could end this real quick, how funny would it be to see him suffocate?”

“It wouldn’t end with Snoke, there’s still his minions. What does Ren even mean?” Caius briefly mused.

“Ask Hux’s girlfriend,” Alexander grumbled.

Speaking of, “Governor Tarkin, Julia,” Caius was quick to greet once he caught sight of them. His eyes barely glanced at Mira, “Vallens.” No ‘admiral’ because she was not one. And he certainly wasn’t going to call her ‘Master Vallens’. The Motti Twins so desperately wanted to pick the woman apart, especially every minuscule thing she did wrong out there, but they didn’t. For the sake of August.

Or for the sake to not be chewed out.

 

[Lucyfer]

Gnaeus found he was surprised to hear that Ariel hadn’t seen hers yet, and even Kylo glanced back, momentarily distracted, “How?” He couldn’t help but ask. How did one not see it when they were working on their crystal, how was it not the first thing a person did when the lightsaber was made? Even Kylo couldn’t deny the rush he’d felt when he made his own lightsaber, and how he’d opened his eyes a few times to see his crystal glow with that faint blue hue.

Before such an answer could be considered, though, Paquin piped up with her guess, and Gnaeus shook his head. “No.” He had never heard of an orange lightsaber himself, so he was not certain if it was possible, but he would have preferred that. Not that his was bad, and he was still excited over it.

Kylo had been closer.

“I don’t think black is an option,” he noted.

Kylo countered, “The blacksaber – I’m not sure if it is normal, but…there has been at least one black lightsaber,” he said. “So what is it, Gnaeus?” As they came to a stop inside, he folded his arms over his chest, and shifted to be in the doorway that would take them back out, seeming to block it off.

“Right,” Gnaeus gave a nod, and then moved his lightsaber ahead of himself, making sure its path was clear, before he focused his energy into it and let it light up the area. It was green – mostly. It was a light, yellow-green hue, not any emerald or obviously green hue. In a certain light, or a certain twist, it could be mistaken for either green or yellow, as some burgundies seemed more purple, or more red.

Kylo wasn’t terribly impressed, but that didn’t stop the smile from curving on his lips as he saw the joy in Gnaeus’s eyes. After losing his hand…at least this seemed to make him feel better. “Didn’t you say you wanted a green hand?” To make it seem less real, no doubt, “Perhaps you were onto something….”

There was no malice in it, and though Gnaeus’s smile faltered, he picked up on that quick enough, and it returned almost as quick, though he couldn’t manage a comment.

~***~

‘It isn’t about righteous fury.’

Finn would learn that, though. Righteous fury had nothing to do with it, wanting to fight for a cause had nothing to do with it. Fighting for fighting’s sake, victory for victory’s sake – these were the selfish and driving forces, along with the anger, that allowed one to overcome their opponents. It was that darkness, that selfishness, and that anger, which made vaapad potent, and he knew he would have a ways to go with showing Finn it.

It could be channeled for good, but it was, without question, a style that relied on the darkside.

Still, that was a place to begin, wasn’t it? “Good place to start,” Mace noted, as Finn questioned how he would channel anger into a form. “You keep talking about fighting for the right side – so tell me, what makes the First Order so wrong?” It would start to rile Finn up, no doubt, and he could press him from there.

Finn’s gaze shot up, clearly wanting to ask Mace if he was stupid with the way his face screwed up. He didn’t, though. This guy had been living under a rock, basically, right? “You kidding me?” He said instead, “They kidnap kids and brainwash them! Like me, like so many others, they steal lives from people, they steal family – they probably killed some family,” Ada was lucky. She lived. He imagined other parents weren’t so lucky. “They teach you their ways, and they force you to think like them – or try.”

It didn’t work with him, “They strip worlds of resources, and they want to control the galaxy at any cost,” was that still true? Was that still Hux’s ideal? The more he thought of it, the more he did wonder how Mira would take it, if that turned out true. Would she be blinded, or would she turn on Hux, as she’d turned on Snoke? “They talk about order, as if it’s a good thing – their idea of order is control and conformity, there’s no expression, no creativity – nothing. It’s dead. And they just kill innocents, without remorse. And we’re – the Stormtroopers – are all just pawns.”

He was getting worked up – Mace could feel it, but didn’t interrupt his tangent.

“They destroyed multiple planets. Billions of lifeforms, gone. Some lifeforms probably extinct now.” Just thinking about it…, “And they tortured so many,” Poe. “Hurt so many of my friends,” Rey, Mira.

He found himself shaking his head, as if trying to dispel it, trying to grasp at control. “No,” Mace found himself saying, “What you’re feeling – hold onto that.” It was uncomfortable. Mace knew it. “All that you’re feeling, I want you to feel it, and not try to think of how things are better now, or how your life is better. There are people still brainwashed and still trapped in that organization, aren’t there? There are families forever separated, who won’t be as lucky as you.”

He saw Finn swallow, fighting against his instinct to work through it, because what could he do? It built a helplessness in him, a hopelessness in him. “Take that feeling, all of that rage, all of that fury, and channel it into the lightsaber, and come at me.”

It would be the start of learning to channel his anger into something, and from there Mace could build to teach Finn how to channel it through himself entirely, to nearly blind himself – but not yet.

To use the anger as a way to read the situation, and to follow it in the fight. He would learn the moves to make use of it, the spins, the taunts, and much else – but this was first.

~***~

The gesture was not one Mira expected, but it was soft enough, noticeable enough before, to not startle her. Still, she looked across at Julia as if it was an action that shouldn’t have been taken, or one that confused her, at the very least. She did not remove the other woman’s hand, but she wasn’t sure she cared much for it. Tension returned with it, but she forced herself to breathe and try to relax, as August let out something of an approving hum at Julia’s question.

Mira herself only offered, “The Senate was as I expected,” a mess. Reading of the senate never deluded her to that fact, or how difficult it was to get things to happen. If anything, she’d been mostly prepared for nothing to get done. That votes even went through seemed a miracle to her, but she had noticed how August seemed to have a certain force of personality, that incited and gained allies.

Enough to make people want to move to challenge, or agree.

She didn’t know if it was learned or natural.

What she did know was that she still didn’t like the commentary from Alexander as they approached, and she caught his comment. She bit the inside of her cheek to keep from correcting him on it. It was a wasted effort. She just gave a nod to Caius. “Senator Motti,” August greeted with a teasing formality, “Admiral Motti, Cibor.”

“No title for me?” Cibor asked, but then, “Do you seriously have to make ginger jokes, August?”

“Yes,” he said, “and more besides, I’m sure. I haven’t brought up Sheev nearly enough.” Cibor’s wince said enough. He should not do that. He was going to do it anyway. “Ah, there you are, Senator Keil. Well?”

“Eriadu remains well,” he knew August asked of it with no context clues. His wife was still there with Johann to make sure it remained safe. “No one decided to take that opening and embargo us,” he smiled.

“Good. We’ll stay peaceful towards Kamino, for now,” he glanced to Alexander, “We have more things to plan, and we need to make certain some people show up to the party,” they all had their own pull, as a group, and as individuals. “We’ll reconvene an hour before,” he noted, knowing he had duties of preparing his lavish apartments here for the entertainment.

He also had to find Hux, and relieve him of Carise Sindian. He was half-hopping to find him in the café, but he’d trek back to the hotel if needed. Already, Toc had come back to his side, bobbing happily in the air.

That was when Mira stepped back, figuring that was also her dismissal, “If you’ll excuse me, then, I should get back to Finn.” She should probably check in with Hux, but she hardly needed to give any of them more ammunition.

“Do you know where we’ll be reconvening at?” August asked.

“…no.” Mira had to admit.

August gave a nod, “Julia, would you go with her? You can make sure she’s prepared for this, as well,” he noted, “I will see to it that Hux is aware and no longer has to suffer that fool, Sindian.”

Mira wanted to protest, but didn’t. Julia hadn’t bothered her, but she wasn’t sure how much she wanted Julia around when she reconnected with Finn. Perhaps Julia could just show her to the place? She would probably find it again….

 

[KyloGlenn]

Paquin and Ariel both made sure they were out of the lightsaber’s path, eagerly waiting for the reveal. Admittedly, Paquin had very little imagination regarding what color it could be. Orange was ruled out. Ariel, however, had an array of colors she imagined. Green, pink, yellow. She briefly mused to herself about it maybe being red. But she knew that red only came from synthetic crystals.

But neither had imagined the strange yellow-green color that it actually was.

Paquin’s attention had been more drawn to the two men, smiling. Seeing Gnaeus manage to smile warmed Paquin’s heart. She was glad he could find joy in something. He deserved a momentary reprieve from what had been going on, just a little at the least. And seeing Kylo smiling made Paquin herself smile. It was such an odd but welcome sight for him, and it made Paquin feel some sort of flutter. “I think it’s pretty,” she commented, pulling her eyes away from Kylo and to the lightsaber. “Or handsome? Cool.” Paquin tried to find an appropriate compliment.

“Yeah, I think it suits you, Gnaeus.” Ariel agreed. She too was warmed by the smiling men. She could count on her fingers how many times she’s seen Kylo smile and to see Gnaeus smile after the trauma of losing his hand…it almost felt like a relief. Like he was capable of doing it, he just needed time to heal. And she was happy that they were happy. She absolutely hated seeing any of them in an unusual emotional or physical state.

“What about yours, Ariel?” Paquin questioned, curious now to see what shade the Force had decided for Ariel.

“Oh! Right,” Ariel briefly forgot she had one too. “And to answer previous questions, I did this thing called keeping my eyes closed. I have this strange ability of self-control.” That was the biggest lie. In truth, Ariel’s alcoholism, a beautiful example of her lack of self-control, affected her connection with the Force. She’d learned how to utilize it normally, but she’d only ever had to make a lightsaber once. She was worried she’d do something wrong if she altered her focus even slightly.

Ariel made sure there was plenty of space for her and her lightsaber before she attempted to ignite it. No buttons this time, only her energy through the Force. Hopefully to avoid it being stolen and utilized by someone that wasn’t her again. The lightsaber responded to her a lot easier than she expected, she thought it would take a while to get the hang of igniting it. But she supposed a lightsaber was just an extension of its wielder.

Ariel was surprised and disappointed by the color of her lightsaber. “Blue…” She grumbled. Admittedly, it was an uncommon blue. It was incredibly dark, cobalt. And it almost looked like it flashed some other color. Indigo, maybe? “I miss my red one.”

-

Finn wasn’t a selfish man. He didn’t like to be an angry man or a bitter one. When such feelings arose, he tried his best to bite them back. To be the better person. And when Mace told him to embrace those feelings, use them, Finn couldn’t comprehend it. He’d fought angry before, of course. But he’d never channeled it, he didn’t think anyway. And he wasn’t sure if he could.

So far, Mira had taught him how to feel the Force, through calm. Meditation.

This was the exact opposite.

That was good, though. It would make Finn well rounded. And as Mira wanted, there was no strict right or wrong way. And Finn could also set his own limits. Something he’d never been able to do before, not as a Stormtrooper. If he decided this anger route was too much, he could stop. If he wasn’t sure passivity was enough, he could go harder. There was something about it that invigorated him.

And so he did as his father said and he kept that anger up. He fueled it with thoughts of those still being hurt by Snoke, the First Order even. All it had done to him and his family. He gripped the saber tighter and with a brief cry of feelings, he rushed Mace.

The anger was almost blinding, almost. He was swinging, wildly, but not uncalculated. He hadn’t forgotten all of his combat training. Of course, Mace easily blocked Finn’s hits. Outmaneuvered him. Finn was messy and unrefined, but Mace could feel the Force in his swings, the potential the young man had. And Mace was half tempted to push further, but this. This was definitely a good start.

The young man had a lot to learn, but he was a good student.

Mace allowed Finn to go at it a while longer, slashing and parrying. Mace could tell when the blind anger was wearing off, but Finn was a determined man. A respectable trait. But could also be a flaw. But for now, they wouldn’t get anywhere with tired panting and soreness from attacking and fending off moves. With a final push from Mace, he called it off. “That’s enough for today. We’ve got a good place to start. Should you want to continue.”

-

“I don’t get why we don’t just attack Kamino while we have them where they are. We have them cornered, the loss would be a big hit to Snoke. Terminate his source of clones, his soldiers.” No doubt they were stationed there, as well as making more. They had the opportunity! And with Snoke that hurt, they’d have more opportunities to knock him down a peg while he attempts to recover. But would they? No.

“Have you been listening at all? That’s not the only goal here. Besides we use made a statement about peaceful embargoes and the like, we can’t just attack Kamino now.” Caius shot that thought down. He and his brother really were opposites. It was only together that they made one whole person. Which wasn’t necessarily a good thing, and Caius saw that. It did have its perks though. Sometimes.

Any further conversation was ignored by Julia. Just as any protests that might come from Mira would be ignored. “I’ll make sure she gets what she needs,” Julia assured her husband. “You go rescue the other ginger. You’re a dying breed.” She teased before she turned to the blonde girl. With a gesture, “Lead the way.” She knew where her padawan was, Julia didn’t.

The Motti twins snickered to each other. Something about Mira not being able to find her way around her home planet. As if it was that easy. Because of course they read up on her as much as they could. It wasn’t like it was hard for anything to be dug up on her, as much as they were sure she wished. But their silly comments were stopped by a look from Julia that said ‘that’s enough’.

They could hate and criticize Mira as much as they wanted. If they did so silently. “You two sound like children,” they sounded like less of an admiral than Mira. No professionalism, it seemed. Julia would wait until they’d abandoned the men a few feet before she would speak again. “I suppose I should apologize for them.” That was all she said. It took two of them to form a well-rounded admiral, but Force were they good.

They were just bitter. They’d followed in many of their father’s footsteps and they believed Mira had simply been handed the position. Whereas she certainly had to have some qualifications. Hux wasn’t a complete idiot.

“I don’t intend to intrude on your visit with your padawan,” she mentioned. Well, perhaps she already was. But she meant she wouldn’t implement herself in their conversations. “I’m simply here to be your guide. And get you dressed appropriately.” Julia was a touch excited for that bit, but she wouldn’t say so.

 

[Lucyfer]

That a lightsaber could be handsome actually caused a laugh from Gnaeus, though it turned Kylo’s expression back to a scowl, wondering if Paquin was attempting to compliment the lightsaber, or not-so-subtly compliment Gnaeus. “Pretty is what I’m used to. Or cool,” Gnaeus offered. Handsome seemed just as weird to him as calling a lightsaber cute. He was fairly certain those were terms that should never be applied to them.

Ariel distracted before Kylo could offer a comment, soon enough revealing her own saber – a dark blue hue radiated out, that did indeed seem to have a flash of indigo. “Well, I suppose you can focus, sometimes,” Kylo allowed. The color appealed to him, far more than his own red one.

If he wasn’t attached to the design, he might have humored a trade. He wouldn’t have done it, of course – lightsabers were still personal, filled with an individual’s own energy. “I like yours better,” but he’d always favored blue, even with the bad memories of his first lightsaber, and his time as a padawan. Blue was comforting. It was why he also preferred Paquin’s saber, color-wise, though he neglected to mention that. “We can get synthetic crystals later,” he offered. “Maybe you can use that self-control and teach yourself to dual wield.”

Wouldn’t that be a sight?

“At least now you both have lightsabers,” so they could move on to other sorts of training. He shook his head, “I’ll need to report the situation outside to Snoke,” he wasn’t looking forward to it, but delaying it any further seemed pointless. Neither Ariel nor Gnaeus had known anything of the Chiss, Snoke may not know anything, either, but he needed to be aware.

~***~

Should he want to continue? “Yes!” It was said breathlessly. Finn hadn’t enjoyed feeling the anger, of course, but he had felt the Force flowing through him, he felt the strength of each blow when there was a block, and his own speed – he felt it, and though he might not understand it, he knew that was what he needed to do. He’d work on that understanding part through more practice, and hopefully, with that understanding, be able to do more with the Force.

His hands fell to his knees as he started to take in deeper breaths, “Was that – was that all right?”

Mace couldn’t help the quirk of his lips at the question, more the way it came, than the actual question. “Yes, Finn,” he reassured, “it was good. I can see you have combat training, and you have good instincts. You’ll hone both of those with this style,” especially the instincts.

Finn smiled, proud of himself, and looking forward to learning much more. He wondered idly if Mira’s style might also help, or suit him. It might be better to stick to one for now, and advance later on in to seeing how more styles would assist him.

He perked up when he saw her, rising and straightening up, “Mira!” He called out, before noticing she wasn’t alone.

~***~

The admirals laughed, and Mira knew it was pointed at her, and the fact she didn’t know where they were meeting. As if she was meant to know every single place on Coruscant. It didn’t bother her, perhaps, as much as they wanted it to. Even so, Julia silenced them, and eventually she and Julia were far enough from them that Julia addressed her.

Mira just shook her head, “Don’t,” she didn’t want Julia speaking on behalf of the Mottis. She would deal with it, remain professional, as she’d tried in the Senate. She wasn’t just representing herself with her actions. She represented Hux. She represented the future of the Gray Jedi. The weight was certainly acknowledged.

A further acknowledgment was made about Julia’s presence, “I suppose my red dress or green dress aren’t enough?” Mira almost wanted to sigh, “I’ve worn more dresses and strange clothes in the past week then I ever have in my life,” that probably wasn’t accurate, but it felt like it. She didn’t really recall her attire as a child. As a padawan it was always those simple tunics. As a knight, her armor.

Now? Armor, dresses, uniform, a few tunics taken from the Resistance…at least she was better at putting things together than Hux. “I think—” she realized saying Hux might need the help more was probably bad. “Never mind,” she shook her head, a smile still sticking, figuring Hux would be there in uniform. Lucky him. “I suppose I can deal with one more dress,” or whatever was thrown at her. “Finn’s coming.”

He’d helped with the red dress. And the green dress. She trusted Finn more.

Soon enough they were stepping into the ruins, and she saw Finn as soon as he saw her, and it did bring a smile to her lips to see him so worn out, but also, so visibly happy. She glanced to Julia, who lifted her hands, though a sly remained, no doubt wondering at what Mira had been about to say before.

She stayed back as Mira closed the distance. Finn immediately blurted, “How was the Senate?”

“Good. I think,” Mira managed, “Governor Tarkin got what he wanted, so I assume it went well, and I didn’t mess things up.”

Finn wasn’t sure if Governor Tarkin’s ends were truly in their best interest, but for now – he supposed it worked. He’d hear from Poe, too, no doubt how the Resistance was taking the situation. “How is your training going?”

~***~

‘Dying breed.’ August couldn’t help but smirk a bit at that. It was technically true, they were the rarest sorts in the galaxy, but with their notable presence in so many places it almost seemed they weren’t, so far as the human race was concerned. Still, he would see to it that Hux was rescued before there was one less of him.

It’d be a shame if Hux’s manner of death was Carise Sindian’s fingernails.

“Senator Motti, Admiral Motti,” August spoke, a touch amused with even differentiating between them, “Try to behave,” he said, as he stepped off, knowing he didn’t need to tell Tagge or Yularen such a thing, as he figured he would go to his café first and grab a new coffee – maybe even something new.

If Hux was there, good. If not, he’d go to the hotel.

Fortunately, the man was there, with Carise Sindian as well, who seemed to be fuming as she looked down at her datapad, clearly observing the HoloNews that had begun doing a sort of play-by-play of the senate and picking apart every piece of it. “I was hoping I would not have to walk far to find you,” August noted, before his gaze shifted to the barista, “the usual, please,” and he approached to pay.

He didn’t use his own information. He had her type in Caius’s information.

Julia had her look.

August had not-so subtle reminders that his memory was impeccable and would be used to do petty things like spend a few credits on a coffee when annoyed. He knew Caius would understand. And notice. Alexander wouldn’t have even noticed the additional charge. He wasn’t even sure Alexander did anything with finances. “We’ll need to get you prepared for the gathering, so do let me know if there is anything you need to attend to first. I have a feeling that getting you prepared will take a while.”

If only because he had a feeling Hux was going to be irksomely stubborn about seeing things his way, and not wearing his uniform.

 

[KyloGlenn]

Paquin had at least attempted to compliment Gnaeus’s lightsaber. At least her point was gotten across. Pretty and cool, those were the words she’d go for then. At least her fumbling got a laugh out of Gnaeus. However, she did notice Kylo’s expression drop at her words. Had she upset him? Was calling a lightsaber handsome disrespectful? It made Paquin’s smile falter, but she kept it up for Ariel and Gnaeus.

“Geez, thanks Kylo.” Sometimes. Well, Ariel supposed Kylo couldn’t give any of them too much credit, otherwise, they might start to think he likes them. Force forbid that happens. Well, she’d take what she could get from him, just as Gnaeus probably would. She would take the fact that he liked her lightsaber better. That didn’t seem like a backhanded compliment.

And it furthered Ariel’s suspicion that his favorite color was blue. Even if he was dark and brooding, where one would figure his colors would be black or blood red. Or he wouldn’t have a preferred color at all. But she felt blue. Certain people gave off certain colors. She wondered if that was a Force thing.

At the mention of Snoke, Paquin felt tense again. There was something so off about him that Paquin couldn’t shake. Perhaps she was holding onto the fact that Snoke wanted Kylo to leave her for dead in a cave. And that he’d easily invaded and assaulted Kylo’s mind to the point that there was nothing but a shell of the man for a while. And Snoke would probably happily do it again to any of them.

She wanted to offer to be there with him or something, but she knew the answer would likely be no. She didn’t have any more information than Kylo to offer, and she was certain her presence would just make anything worse. She had a feeling Snoke didn’t like her. With a brow furrowed in concern, seemingly permanently, she held up the datapad, “Do you want this?” She asked before looking at the other two. “I don’t suppose either of you knows how to break into someone’s datapad?”

-

“I’ll have to watch the Senate meeting later when I get the chance. See if I can pick you out in the crowd.” Finn wanted to see how it went for himself and wanted to support Mira any way he could. He was proud of her.

Mira asked about his training and Finn was more than excited to talk about it. “Good! I think,” he grinned, gently nudging Mira to let her know he was teasing her. “If I’m honest, it’s a little scary. Daunting. But I think once I learn more, get the hang of it, it’ll really grow on me.” He would only focus on the one form for now, but he felt that he should master as many as he could. Maybe he could create a style all his own, that fit him.

He was eager to learn.

Finn glanced back to the Jedi—or former Jedi—who was near, but allowed Mira and Finn a bit of space. “Mace says I did good. So that’s something.” Finn gave a one-shoulder shrug, but that smile remained on his face as he turned back to his friend.

“You picked a good padawan,” Mace commented. “He listens well. That never happens.” The first thing that came to Mace’s mind was Anakin. Not because he was the biggest Jedi fuck-up, but because that damn kid never listened to anybody. Mira was lucky she didn’t get an Anakin for her first padawan. Though, no child of his or Ada’s could ever be that bad. Whether raised by them or not.

That was a Skywalker thing.

Finn took the compliment for what it was, anyway.

The padawan glanced behind Mira, gestured to the dark-haired woman standing at a distance. Julia, August’s wife. “What’s with the shadow? Did you have to replace me while I was gone?” She sure was quite the replacement, Finn couldn’t help but be a little bit suspicious.

-

Hux had been sitting silently, sipping his drink while Carise fumed away. Whether she was angry at the decisions and conversations being made, or the fact that she wasn’t there to put her two cents in, or maybe even both Hux had no clue which it was. All he knew was that he didn’t like talking to her in the first place, and certainly wasn’t going to attempt to make conversation while she was steaming like a kettle.

Thankfully he was awarded some sort of occupying when August walked in, apparently, he’d been looking for the General.

Hux’s eyebrow cocked curiously. “Prepare me for the gathering?” Why would it take a while? All he had to do was show up, right?

Carise seemed to tear her attention from the datapad just then, interrupting before anything further could be said. “The Senate meeting is over, that means I can leave. I have to get ready for this thing, too.” After the embarrassment of not being able to show up to the meeting, the least she could do is show up looking good. That was the least. She’d make this up, to herself anyway.

Hux waved a gloved hand in dismissal, ready to be free of the babysitting job. He was a General and was keeping an eye on a senator. And he wasn’t even getting paid for it. No matter, his job was done as far as he was concerned. It was in his best interest anyway. “Fine. However, I suggest you avoid making any further statements on sensitive matters before consulting with someone. Specifically me. Yes?” He kept his voice low enough.

Carise clenched her teeth. Oh, how she wanted to use her perfectly manicured nails to gouge both gingers’ eyes out. “I get it.” She wasted no time in standing. “I’ll see you both very soon.” There was no warmth in that statement, almost said as if it was a threat.

Hux resisted thanking her for the warning.

General Ginger returned his attention to Governor Ginger. “I have nothing I need to tend to immediately,” he stated cautiously. He was wary of what ‘getting him prepared’ meant. But Carise was his pertinent assignment for the day, and nothing important was scheduled. The First Order could be handled being run by Phasma for a bit. Or Mira, if need be. He doubted it would come to that, however.

 

[Lucyfer]

Gnaeus’s skillset did not involve breaking into datapads. Breaking into other things, yes, but not usually technology such as that. He could only shake his head. This was what Kevan had been for. He was the smuggler, he was the one inclined and familiar with modern technology to an enviable point. And of course, he was the traitor who was now gone from them, leaving his minions behind and their datapads. “No, I can’t – I’m sure Snoke will have someone who can.” If nothing else, Snoke had other allies who could do this sort of work.

He didn’t need the Knights for that kind of thing. He needed them for Force-related things.

“I’ll mention it to Snoke,” Kylo added, before turning away.

Curiously, it was Gnaeus who offered, “Do you want me to come with you?” He didn’t really want Kylo alone with Snoke. He didn’t think anyone did, though.

Kylo shook his head, denying it, finding it strange that Gnaeus offered, but not upset over it. “No, I’ll let you all know his response,” and if they’d be doing anything different, which he doubted. Of course, Kylo was blissfully unaware of the movements of Brendol Hux, and that Snoke had already been contemplating reaching out to them.

He turned to leave them, to head back to the ship so he could call out to Snoke. He’d make sure not to mention the lightsabers. Somehow, he was fairly certain Snoke would not be a fan of the fact Gnaeus and Ariel had lightsabers that weren’t red.

~***~

‘It won’t be that hard.’ Mira was fairly certain she ended up front and center when she spoke and was introduced to the Senate. Would Finn find he agreed with her words? She didn’t comment on it just yet. It seemed strange, worrying over Finn’s reaction, worrying over so many reactions….

Finn’s glee over training was enough of a distraction. “I’m glad to hear this is going well,” and she gave a nod to Mace. She wasn’t sure how much of this she could call her ‘picking’ Finn as a padawan, and how much was circumstance, but she wasn’t about to deny it. Finn was a good padawan, and she’d accept the compliment on his behalf. She knew Finn didn’t only listen.

He had a mind of his own just as well.

She glanced back at Julia, then shook her head, “Apparently none of the dresses I have are good enough for the Tarkin’s event, so I need another dress. I also don’t know where the event is, so Julia is here to make sure I’m prepared, and on time. You should come with us,” come with her, so she kept some sanity, “You probably need a new suit,” she chuckled a bit, wondering if they’d end up matching again, “Mace, are you coming to the Tarkin party?”

Mace hadn’t been invited earlier, when Ada was, and so he shook his head. “Been to more than enough of those pointless events in my life.” It wasn’t his scene, and he still didn’t want his life to become common knowledge.

~***~

Carise left them with little insulting commentary, just her clear frustration with the series of events. That she wasn’t a part of the senate. He would make sure she was carefully watched at the party. He didn’t need her fucking up something priceless in his home, or saying something outlandish. He imagined she would still toe the party line, she usually did, but that didn’t mean she couldn’t be frustrating.

After all, even in the same ‘party’, she made sure to target August.

His coffee was handed over as Carise left, and August took a sip of it first to hide how broad his smile had grown with how Hux treated Carise as a child, constant reminders on her behavior. Then he lowered it, and motioned for Hux to rise, “The first step is finding you new clothes,” August noted, “I’m sure you have a formal officer’s uniform,” he wasn’t sure of that at all.

He was almost certain Hux didn’t.

“However, given the nature of this party, I would rather you not be openly displaying your military background. So we will have to get you a formal suit,” he noted. He almost wanted to say ‘not black’, but decided they could just see how things went, and what the tailors of the world could put together for Hux.

“As this is a requirement I’m forcing upon you, there’s no need to worry about wasting your own funds for it. This is rather last minute.” Just a way to make sure Hux had nothing to use, or to call this a financial burden, or waste of money.

 

[KyloGlenn]

Paquin felt the urge to tell Kylo to be careful much too often for it to be normal or healthy. But even so, it’s not as if her insistence on being safe would do anything. Especially with Snoke. There was no getting around the threat of Snoke. ‘He shouldn’t feel like such a threat.’ She told herself. They were all on the same side, weren’t they?

She watched his dark form disappear out the door before she released a small sigh. Her hand reached for Gnaeus, gently squeezing his bicep in an appreciative gesture. Even though she hadn’t asked Gnaeus to offer anything to Kylo and Kylo had said no as she thought he would, she was still glad he had asked. And she wasn’t sure if it really confirmed her suspicions on how everyone felt about Snoke, but it encouraged her instincts.

Snoke had been considering reaching out to Kylo Ren shortly after ending a holocall with Brendol Hux. But before Snoke could follow through with the action, his apprentice beat him to it, conveniently. “Kylo Ren,” Snoke greeted gruffly. Even if Ren’s call was convenient, the Supreme Leader wasn’t thrilled by it. It meant something was either wrong, or something was needed.

“I trust you’re keeping you and your Knights out of trouble,” Snoke grumbled, his words intended to urge Ren to give him an update. Snoke would tell the young man of his desired task for him and the Knights, only after he could confirm that it could be handled adequately by them. Abducting the now sole leader of the First Order was a feat not to be handled lightly, by the absent-minded.

It was so terribly inconvenient to have such unprepared, ill-behaved Knights. But then Snoke reminded himself of the power he held at his fingertips with them. In theory, it was worth it. And Snoke could easily find ways to put them in line, much like what he often did with Kylo Ren himself.

-

“You’re a public figure now, Mira! You can’t be caught in the same dress twice.” Finn teased as if recycling outfits was that important to being a public figure. It seemed to work for Hux, after all. Well, did anyone really like Hux? Besides Mira, that is. “Though, I wouldn’t mind a new suit.” He personally thought he wore them well. And he liked when he and Mira matched. Though maybe this time he’d match with his mother since technically he was taking her.

“I’ll happily tag along,” he agreed.

Then Mace became the subject of question. “That’s a shame. I bet you’d be entertaining to have around.” Finn couldn’t say for sure if the party with so many political figures would be boring or not, but it would be amusing at least to see Mace at such a function.

Though Finn had a feeling the Tarkins could still manage to make something that sounded like a drag fun.

“Are you coming dress shopping with us?” Finn asked.

“Hell no.” Mace wasn’t going to dress shop.

“What’re you going to do then?” Finn was curious.

“I’ll figure something out.” Mace knew Ada still wanted to chew him out, maybe he’d visit her before she went to the party. And he could think of a few things he could get done while they all were away at this get together.

“Alright. Well, you know where the ship is and all that.” Finn offered. Mace nodded. The younger man returned his attention to Mira. “I do wanna check in with Poe. And General Organa, of course,” Finn quickly added Leia. Not just Poe or anything. He could do that via datapad. “But I’m ready when you are. We can make this outing fun,” He assured with a smile.

-

Hux’s brows furrowed and if he hadn’t already been scowling, he would have frowned too. First of all, no. Hux did not have a formal officer’s uniform. Yes, they were issued to other officers. Phasma had one that she’d worn only a few times. But Hux didn’t see the need for one himself. He didn’t wear armor. His uniform was tidy enough, and it displayed his status. He figured it was good enough for any situation.

“A suit?” He questioned incredulously. The General couldn’t even recall a time he wore one. Always uniforms.

Tarkin left no room for Hux to argue, no excuse for Hux to give to get out of wearing something other than his uniform.

“I don’t see how my uniform isn’t perfectly adequate,” Hux grumbled, ready to fight it anyway.

However, on second thought, Hux could see why it could perhaps be in poor taste to wear his uniform. The First Order wasn’t exactly favored by some. Though, it could be argued that seeing his face alone would be offensive enough to those people. “Very well,” Hux agreed, hardly hiding his displeasure. He’d do it, but he’d gladly let August in on how much he didn’t want to be doing it.

At least this wasn’t coming out of his or the First Order’s pocket. And Hux could simply insist it be all black. It wouldn’t be too far out of his comfort zone, he supposed. How bad could it be? It couldn’t be worse than that obnoxiously neon ‘disguise’ he wore not too long ago.

Hux stood from his seat then. He gestured for August to take the lead. “I’m sure you know where to find these things better than I.”

 

[Lucyfer]

Gnaeus bitterly wished he had his own hand to lift to place over Paquin’s, but he didn’t. He started to lift the fake one, but dropped it a moment later. He was grateful for the gesture from her, though. They were all worried for Kylo in their own ways, no matter how much of an asshole he could be. ‘Did Kevan or Mira still worry?’ He didn’t want to consider that, though.

He did say, aloud, “I guess now that Kylo has the only red lightsaber, people aren’t going to confuse you as the leader of our group anymore, Paq,” Gnaeus tried to add humor back to all of this, something lighter, given he knew they’d joked of Paquin’s lightsaber being the one to stand out when it was blue. Now they all had different shades. Paquin and Ariel would kind of match with blue ones.

They at least wouldn’t stand out so much as Kylo would. And no one would mistake a person missing an arm for a leader – never mind Luke.

~***~

Kylo seemed to sit at ease, even though he was far from it. He thus tensed as Snoke spoke of the others, and staying out of trouble. He managed a curt nod to that. They hadn’t left Korriban, and trouble had come to them. “Yes, however we had a visitor tied to Kevan,” he didn’t add Ren. Somehow it felt improper to add ‘Ren’ in front of Snoke, “We have his datapad, but we cannot unlock it, and we’re unclear on his motives for coming here. I thought it prudent to let you know, in case Korriban was compromised.”

He added, “None of us were familiar with the chiss, either, but his name was Dummu’ocor’iagei. His ship is still here, as well,” another thing that might be useful, “What we were able to glean from it, indicated visits to Coruscant, Ryloth, and Carida.”

Snoke nodded, taking in the information and running the name, and planets, through his mind. He would have to look into it further, but he did take note of the fact that Korriban could, indeed, be compromised. That would be troublesome. Mira knew of it, of course – though she seemed content right then not to go off on her own and instead follow the First Order directive.

Kevan’s people could be troublesome, though. He didn’t know them so well. “It is good timing, then. I want you to depart Korriban with the other Knights, and head to the RIngs of Kafrene.” Kylo’s brows knit together. “Bring the datapad. You will be there to meet with our associates and to bring the datapad, and General Hux, to me.”

Kylo couldn’t help but start to ask, “How are we—” but Snoke’s look, the way his eyes narrowed, told him he had no right to ask that question. He swallowed it down, “Understood, Supreme Leader. We will be there. Who are we meeting?”

“Brendol Hux.”

Kylo didn’t envy the General at all. “Is there anything else you need of us, Supreme Leader?”

~***~

Mira was relieved that Finn would tag along. She felt like she might need him around Julia, somehow. Help deflecting her or something – she wasn’t sure. There was nothing wrong with Julia Tarkin, just…she was unnerving in a way that her husband was, a certain power or poise that Mira couldn’t place.

Mace wouldn’t be coming – and that was fine. “I’ll see Finn returned to you tomorrow,” she noted. Finn’s lightsaber training had to continue, and Mira would prefer Mace handle that. He wasn’t a legend for no reason. Still, she’d rather Finn learn the Force from her.

Mace gave a nod, “I can end up back here again,” he figured it was all the same to them, and they didn’t need to pry into what he did with his time. Mira accepted it easily enough and looked back to Finn as Mace pushed his hood back up and strode off. He mentioned Poe, and Organa, “Do you want to do those first, or do you want to do the dress shopping first?”

“I’d rather do the dress shopping first,” Julia noted, adding, “I think it may be better to let Finn go on his own to General Organa. We can leave you with your friend, of course,” so he would have someone to help him out around Coruscant, and get him to General Organa. “If it is all the same – I would hate to spoil General Organa’s mood before the party.”

~***~

“No, you wouldn’t,” August’s tone was as derisive as it was exasperated as the younger Brendol complained about how his suit was perfectly adequate. It wasn’t, under any circumstances, perfectly adequate for a Tarkin party, or any party, for that matter. Hux would learn.

At least Hux wasn’t denying it. He wasn’t happy about it, but he wasn’t fighting it, either. Not as much as he expected, and so he gave him a smile and a nod, “Of course, I have a personal tailor here in Coruscant,” and on Eriadu, and a few other places he had to go to frequently. Wherever the senate had met in the past, he made a point to meet people who could tend to basic needs.

A custom suit was a basic need.

So was a residence.

And caterers….

There were probably people who would argue these weren’t basic needs, and August didn’t need a new, or slightly altered, suit for every large event. Those people were wrong.

“Her name is Inari,” August offered as he took the lead out of the café with his drink. “She’s well suited to dressing military men, so this should be fairly easy for her.” He just imagined Johann groaning at the ‘well-suited’, but he kept that smile to himself.

 

[KyloGlenn]

Paquin noticed the brief lift of Gnaeus’s fake hand. She could imagine the intent behind it. It made her suppress another sigh. She knew that Gnaeus would never be able to accept his replacement hand. As much as she wished he would. And Paquin wanted nothing more than the ability to give him his real hand back. Unfortunately, that wasn’t realistic. And she didn’t want Gnaeus to hope or expect that.

Gnaeus attempted to lighten the air, much to both of Ariel and Paquin’s appreciation.

Ariel snorted as Paquin commented, “Oh, bummer. I was looking forward to being specifically targeted by people wanting to kill me. And I didn’t even get to boss you guys around.” She wondered if anyone would have actually mistaken her as the leader. No one with a brain. But maybe if the only thing they saw was her lightsaber amongst the other red ones.

Well, she didn’t have to worry about that anymore, anyway.

“Kylo might let you boss him around,” Ariel suggested crudely, as she would. Paquin’s naivety was amusing as it was concerning. Paquin had to be in her late twenties and had not gotten a single innuendo any of them had said. Kylo was bad too, but he seemed to understand more. It also occurred to Ariel then that she had no idea how old Paquin was.

Paquin’s eyebrows furrowed and her head tilted, responding just as Ariel expected her to. “I don’t think Kylo would take very kindly to me telling him what to do.”

“I’m so glad we have Paquin around,” Ariel told Gnaeus, a dumb grin on her face. She wondered how Paquin even wound up with them, how Kylo even managed to convince her to come along.

-

“No, there’s nothing else,” Snoke grumbled. “Prepare what you must and take your leave as soon as possible.” The Supreme Leader imagined it wouldn’t be too long now before Brendol delivered his son to them.

Snoke also didn’t imagine there would be too much trouble retrieving the younger Hux. It wouldn’t be suspicious of a son to wander off with his own father. But even so, in case there was some issue or Brendol Hux tried to pull something funny, the Knights were more than capable to handle the situation. Or at least, they should be. Even with their seemingly slacking training.

“Contact me once you’ve acquired the General.” He instructed. Snoke felt he’d have to make some minor adjustments to some things. With the risk of Korriban being compromised, Snoke would have to task himself with coming up with a new base for the Knights. And in the meantime, he was once again inclined to have his guards accompany the Knights once they’ve captured the General.

“Go now” he dismissed, promptly ending his side of the holocall.

-

“We can do shopping first, no problem,” Finn easily agreed. However, he didn’t comment on going off on his own to Poe and Leia. He wouldn’t agree to it unless Mira was comfortable with being left alone with Julia. Which at the moment, didn’t exactly seem like something she wanted. But, whatever Mira wanted of him, he’d do. He trusted her judgment. Most of the time.

There was also a part of Finn that was scared to straight up disagree with Julia. He didn’t know why, but he felt it was likely best not to upset her. Lest she have some super secret bodyguards around, ready to snipe him at any given moment. ‘August is the one sniping,’ Finn thought, almost laughing at the idea. He’d tell that one to Mira later.

“Good,” Julia wouldn’t argue with that, at the moment. “If you two would be so kind as to follow me. I know just the place to go,” It was where Julia usually got her dresses while on Coruscant. And it was conveniently located where they could also find makeup and maybe some accessories. Hopefully, they could find a nice dress to match with the bold lip Julia would insist would look good. It was a little pricey. Scratch that, very.

But it was a price Julia was willing to pay to play dress up.

The droid beeped, seemingly more excited about dress shopping than the other two, eagerly rolling after Julia, but pausing to make sure its people weren’t far behind.

Luckily, while it was a large expanse of planet, it wasn’t hard to find a place to cater to what they needed. And Julia’s favorite store was conveniently located close to the political center of Coruscant. She and her husband managed to acquire quality locales in their area. And everyone employed seemed to know their name, just as they did at the dress shop.

“Mrs. Tarkin!” One of the nicely dressed ladies greeted as they walked in, “And company!” She added upon eyeing the rest of the group.

-

‘Of course you do,’ Hux resisted the urge to say those words. But it didn’t surprise Hux one bit that August had a personal tailor. He probably had more than one, even. Something Hux couldn’t fathom the need for or spending money on. But he neither needed it nor was he spending the money on it. Simply abiding by Tarkin’s wishes and so for that he’d not open his mouth.

Hux repeated August’s tailor’s name in his head, the ‘well-suited’ bit flying right over his ginger head. Instead, he was offering a half-assed mental apology to her. “We’ll see about that.” Hux was sure he was going to be difficult to work with, a little bit by choice and a tad bit just due to his annoyance with a suit. The General would always prefer to represent the First Order in the comfort of his usual fashion statement.

But he couldn’t always get what he wanted.

He begrudgingly followed the latte-sipping Governor, briefly wondering what kind of headlines there would be the next day. There was no way they were traveling undetected.

“If I’m going to be doing this, I have very specific requirements that need to be met,” Hux informed. As if. Really, his requirements were it to be black and preferably indistinctly a suit. Really, Hux had never seen himself in a suit and was frankly, a tad nervous to wear one. His father was very insistent that a uniform was all Hux needed, and he had a suspicion it was another way for his father to try to deny Hux a unique personality. Brendol Hux wanted more machine than man, but with the sense of loyalty and critical thinking of a sentient being.

And he wondered if there would be any doubt of his authority or position of power should he wear something out of the norm. But perhaps he was just thinking too much.

 

[Lucyfer]

Gnaeus definitely got what Ariel was going for with her comment, and it did bring a wry smile to his lips, as he shook his head at her effort. It still didn’t work. Paquin didn’t understand. He hadn’t been keeping track as well as Ariel, but he was aware she didn’t seem to catch on to their comments. He blamed the First Order.

“Yes, Ariel, I’m glad we have Paquin around,” he said it in a slight monotone, to make the point that Paquin, also, might not get – that she was being mocked and not understanding it. He felt a bit bad for it, but it was also quite humorous. It was nice to have such innocent people around. He and Ariel did not fit into that category.

Maybe he did more than Ariel…but he understood these jokes so he wasn’t innocent enough. “Maybe you should try it though, Paquin. Just to see if Kylo would take kindly to it.” He was going to straight to hell with Ariel. “He might even like taking a break from thinking of what to do all the time, or leading.” Of course it could be asked why he or Ariel wouldn’t do it.

If it was, he doubted it would come up then as Kylo returned to them, ending his conversation with Snoke moments before. Well, Snoke ended it. Abruptly. Kylo didn’t mind that, and Gnaeus straightened up a bit to see him return so quickly. “Well?”

“We’re leaving,” he said, “Snoke has made arrangements with Brendol Hux. We’re to wait for Brendol on the Ring of Kafrene

Gnaeus arched a brow, “What…arrangements?” Brendol had helped him and Ariel, and he knew that Brendol was still working with them, but he was wary of the other man all the same.

“General Hux will be delivered to us there.” And with it, the First Order’s opposition to them would finally crumble as Brendol seized control. No matter what rank Mira held, or others loyal to the General, it wouldn’t be enough in the face of this coup. Kylo was fairly certain of that. The Stormtroopers would follow whoever led, and Brendol would lead.

~***~

Mira was grateful Finn so readily agreed, even if this was likely to be quite boring for him, unless he was able to get in a bit of shopping on his own. Mira smiled at the droid as it encouraged them onwards, “We’re coming, Beebee.” They did walk after the droid, and found that the shop wasn’t at all far from where they’d been.

Of course, any smart shop would stay near the rich centers – and the political center was certainly a rich one.

They walked in after Julia, who was greeted enthusiastically, and then the eyes fell to them. Mira wasn’t certain right then if the look was a good one, or not, but Julia easily took over, “Adelita,” she smiled to the woman, “I need some assistance for my company, Ms. Vallens.”

Mira did arch a brow at that address, but chose not to comment on it. She’d gotten used to the more formal titles that just ‘Ms’ seemed…weird. She was almost certain she’d never been referred to that way.

“Of course!” Adelita looked thrilled with the idea, “And anything for yourself?”

Julia nodded, “I do believe I have something to pick up?”

“Oh! That is right, I nearly forgot, my apologies, Mrs. Tarkin,” she chuckled at her own foolishness. “Well then, what are we doing for your friend?”

‘Friend?’ Just go with it. Harmless. Probably.

“She’s one of the guests at my husband’s party tonight and she had her introduction to the Senate today, so we need to have her stand out. Though, it needs to pair with a bold lipstick – I’ll find the right one next door afterwards.”

“Is that really necessary?” Mira could deal with a flashy dress, maybe. It seemed Julia had a bit more in mind than just that, and it probably did not stop at just lipstick.

~***~

August couldn’t help but glance back at Hux as he insisted he had specific requirements to be met. “No you don’t,” he said it bluntly, but didn’t add on that Hux probably knew nothing about suits and what requirements existed, even if it might be fun to tease him over how many buttons he wanted on the jacket, or cufflink designs. “The only requirements are that it makes you look good, and you can tolerate it for a night.”

August was still going to try and get him in something besides black. White? Blue? He’d definitely tell Inari to get a collection of things, and nothing black, unless Hux insisted on being petulant…and it was three hours later.

He was fairly certain Hux would give in before 3 hours.

“Besides, you’re free to drink away your discomfort at the party.” He allowed as he found the glass doors of Inari’s boutique and stepped in, a smile broadening on his face as the woman popped her head out from the back, and then quickly came striding into the bright room.

“Governor Tarkin! How can I help?” She barely paid Hux any mind, assuming he was some sort of intern or aide following August around.

Until August made a gesture towards him, and said, “General Hux needs a suit for this evening.”

“Oh!” Her pink eyes twinkled, indicative of her near-human status, rather than a pure-human. They weren’t, after all, contacts. “I can play with—work with him!”

“Not with him, with me, he’s my guest and he thought wearing this would be appropriate, so I wouldn’t trust him.”

Inari did make a face at that, “That? Really?” August gave a sad nod. “Oh, hun…no…here, I can definitely find something that screams General better than that – anyone we’re trying to impress today?” She added, a question she did usually ask August to make sure if he was trying to impress someone, she could find a way to tie it into the fashion, however subtly.

 

[KyloGlenn]

Paquin picked up on the tone of Gnaeus’s voice, quickly becoming confused. Had she missed something? Clearly, she had, but she didn’t know what. Her lips started to form a subtle pout. Maybe it was a joke between them? And she was a little too embarrassed to ask.

Gnaeus encouraged her to try bossing Kylo around. Maybe not bossing him around, but either way. She wouldn’t go around telling him to brush his teeth or make his bed. Or try to take his position as Commander of them. Perhaps Kylo could benefit from someone telling him to take a break or something, but it didn’t have to be by her. Why couldn’t Gnaeus do it? And if anyone could it would probably be Ariel, right?

Before Paquin could say as much, Kylo returned to them. She felt relief when he came back to them, seemingly unharmed. At the news he brought, however, she frowned. It was well known in the First Order that Brendol and his son did not get along, particularly after Hux had been appointed the rank of General over his own father. But Paquin would never have thought that Brendol would simply give up his own child. Not that she was particularly fond of her former boss. She also couldn’t say she hated him.

“How?” Ariel wondered out loud. How was Brendol going to kidnap Hux without the entire First Order noticing? Sure, he’d gotten them out. But they were prisoners. Hux was their beloved General with Phasma as a bodyguard. And Mira, who undoubtedly had taken a liking to Hux. Was Brendol even truly going to do it? “I don’t like that weasely old fuck.” Yeah, maybe Brendol had gotten her and Gnaeus returned safely, but that didn’t make him trustworthy. She supposed they’d just have to see when they got there. Besides, Ariel knew that Brendol would be able to hide anything from Snoke.

No one could, which was terrifying.

“Are we leaving now?” Paquin asked. Not that it really mattered, it’s not like they were doing anything.

-

“One hundred percent,” Julia insisted. There was truly no need for it, honestly. A flashy dress and some plain lip gloss would be enough to pass for a Tarkin party, but that wasn’t fun. And it didn’t make as much of a statement as a nice lip would. “This party is a chance for you to engage with the Senate. You want to leave an impression, don’t you?” Julia was sure Mira could do as much, even had, as she was.

But the Tarkin didn’t much care. And her tone implied that the case was settled.

Finn had to stop from snorting, patting Mira on the back. In other words, telling her that going along with this would make it easy.

Adelita managed to keep a pleasant smile on her face through the interaction. “Are there any particular styles or colors you’d like me to pull?” She aimed the question at either Mira or Julia, but would obviously cater in favor of Julia, should she need to.

“Hm, maybe some pinks and reds. Or something patterned, even.” Julia offered but would give Mira a chance to say what she’d prefer, as well.

Even Finn cut in, “Maybe something sparkly!” Really he just wanted to see Mira in the flashiest dress possible. He had to find some way to entertain himself, too.

“Are you her date?” Adelita asked when Finn spoke up, wondering if Ms. Vallens’s dress should compliment his suit.

“Oh, no,” not this time. “Just think she’d look great in something shiny.”

With Julia’s approval, Adelita agreed. “Very well. I’ll go ahead and pull some things that I think would work. Jaclyn will show you to your dressing room,” Adelita gestured to a small, well-dressed, green alien woman at the reception desk. The glasses wearing Jaclyn perked her head up at her name, promptly hopping off of her chair.

“Please follow me,” her voice was high-pitched and cheery, as she gestured them along. The dressing rooms were just as fancy as one would expect. A couch for company, large mirrors placed around a pedestal for viewing outfits and off to the side was the actual changing room large. “Is there anything I can get anyone? Water, coffee, wine?

-

Hux would definitely insist on being petulant. Perhaps not for three hours, but long enough to express his irritation and lack of desire for anything say, Force forbid, colorful. Of course, Hux wasn’t sure how much say he’d even have, but he didn’t think August would argue with a military ally over a party outfit. Or maybe he would. Whatever.

The General hadn’t thought of drinking at this get-together. If anything he’d thought it would be a bad decision to become even the slightest bit intoxicated around the Senate. Or around August. But after this, he just might have to indulge in a nice glass of wine. Or two. He’d just have to be careful that no one would poison him. Which he wouldn’t doubt could happen. Maybe it would be Carise that tried.

Hux didn’t realize how apparently shameful it was to wear his uniform to a party, as much so relayed in his incredulous expression. What could scream General better than a General’s uniform? And he wasn’t sure how much he cared for being called ‘hun’ by this woman. But he kept his mouth shut and would let August and Inari do what they wanted. Within limits, of course. Very strict limits.

“No,” Hux spoke. Hux felt no need to impress anybody. He certainly wouldn’t go out of his way to.

Inari hummed, “Hm,” she acknowledged Hux without actually taking his word for it. She eyes the younger ginger up and down. He was tall, lean, attractive. There was a good base for her to work with. “If you don’t mind,” she spoke as a warning before she ushered Hux off to a corner, in front of a mirror, taking the tape measure from around her neck to begin her work. “Could you please remove your over shirt,” she asked, the long-sleeved shirt adding too much bulk. She knew he’d have a t-shirt under it.

Which he did, trying not to grumble as he removed it, setting it across a chair. “Thank you,” Inari went to work measuring Hux’s shoulders. “What colors were we thinking?” The question obviously aimed to August. “Maybe some florals?” She spoke jokingly, of course.

“Florals?” Hux repeated, distaste clear in his tone.

“Okay, maybe not florals,” she smirked. She wondered where Governor Tarkin had picked this guy up from.

 

[Lucyfer]

Kylo could only shake his head as an answer to Ariel’s query. He didn’t know how Brendol intended to do it, but he understood that Snoke had faith in whatever method Brendol had in mind. “We’re not asked to like him,” Kylo stated. He didn’t like Brendol, either. It was one of those few things he and the General could have agreed upon.

Brendol would never truly deserve to be General. He’d be a puppet more easily controlled by Snoke, though, and that was what mattered in the grand scheme of things. Deposing General Hux to allow his father to step up was important in securing Snoke’s reign.

Kylo gave a nod to Paquin’s query, “Yes. We aren’t sure when Brendol is to arrive, so we need to be there.” If Brendol had any troubles, or anyone followed him – and Kylo could too easily imagine either Mira or Phasma doing just that – they needed to be there to make sure things went smoothly and the younger Brendol was taken to Snoke.

Gnaeus crossed his arms over his chest, but wouldn’t argue, “Have any of you ever been to the Ring of Kafrene before?” He asked.

Kylo shook his head. He hadn’t, but, “It’s just some space tradeport, why?”

Gnaeus pressed his lips together briefly, before saying, “It’s a world that’s hard to leave. Ships and travelers go missing frequently. Back in the Empire times, people thought it was Imperials recruiting others to work in the nearby mines, but it’s continued. I’m fairly certain there’s some criminal organization operating it, but I don’t know which one.” He’d been there once, and definitely sensed his life was at risk there. “It’s not a safe place – I just wanted to mention it to make sure no one gets left behind.”

“I wasn’t intending to leave anyone behind.” Kylo was almost offended it was said, and Gnaeus managed a slight nod, but offered no more defense to why he brought it up.

~***~

Mira shot Finn a rueful look, and deadpanned the reminder, “You have to train with me tomorrow,” and so far it wasn’t looking like she’d make it an easy session for him. If she ended up in a sparkling dress, it definitely wasn’t looking good for him.

Finn’s look just said ‘worth it’ as they followed Jaclyn towards the dressing room that was far more plush than the one on Tatooine had been, when they went to meet Grakkus. Mira had opted for red then, and would prefer it here, as well. She wanted to leave the right impression with the Senate, and while she didn’t think red was it – pink definitely wasn’t it.

She would have rather gone with some more muted. Green, perhaps. White, even. Black. Purple? Purple.

“I’ll just have a water, please,” Julia would not begin any pre-drinking before the party, and looked over to Mira and Finn.

“Water, too!”

“Coffee,” Mira didn’t care if she was gaining an addiction, and knew Finn was judging her by the look he offered to that, but he didn’t speak to it. The drinks were brought out and Mira was able to take at least a good gulp before the dresses were brought out, and she felt like turning right out and walking out.

Given, plenty of them looked nice, and from just eyeballing it seemed that Adelita had chosen for size well, only minor adjustments would probably be needed, but there was the sudden realization that this was going to make an impression. On the Senate. On the Mottis. On Hux. And she was trying to appear competent, and to her, at least, few, if any, of the dresses suggested that. They lacked the practicality to suggest it.

There was so much tulle…sparkles…patterns.

“Can’t I just get a simple red dress?”

“No, we need to see which of these are going to look best,” Julia commented, and Mira picked up that distinctly evil grin on her face then. “The sooner you start trying them on, the sooner we can start narrowing down what works, and find the rest of the accessories and make-up to pair with it.”

Mira just sulked, “Fine. Just no touching the braid.” The singular padawan braid, which took on a glint of yellow right then as she walked forward to take the first dress, something pink with a pattern at the bodice portion.

“Oh! Were those always yellow? They would clash horribly….” She saw Julia shaking her head.

“No, they change colors,” Julia noted, “Don’t worry about them and any outfit,” stated as Mira left the area with the pink dress, before letting her eyes run over the rest of the selection, nodding to herself. One of those should work….

~***~

August followed, of course. The General was hardly going to have any peace, and he idly wondered if he ought to mention that Hux was trying to impress him – or a woman. For the moment, he kept his mouth shut. The thought of the General in florals was too amusing, and he knew it showed on his face as he imagined Hux in a ridiculously designed suit.

Given, it worked, for some people.

Those people were not August or Hux.

“We’re thinking more along the lines of blues or grays, but I wouldn’t be opposed to a wider variety. I do not quite know what would look good on him, since he seems as obsessed with black as a teenager who’s rich parents don’t understand them.” August let the mockery slip easily, wondering if it might detour Hux at all from wanting to cling to his black as desperately as he did.

It certainly got a chuckle out of Inari, “I get the hint – no black,” she said, moving around Hux to get all the measurements she thought she would need, committing them to memory, “I should have a few things that would fit him, or be quickly adapted to him,” she noted, “it’s a good thing I’m used to working with lean men,” she gave him a knowing glance, and August just rolled his eyes.

“I’ve tried. It’s not in my genetic code to bulk much.” Poor Johann, cursed with that, too.

“All right,” she pulled back then, “I’ll go grab some things! Be back in a tick!” With that, she hurried off, a skip in her step.

“Not so painful, is it?” It had barely begun. “You should have mentioned you were trying to impress Mira.” He knew Julia would be gauging reactions. August would have to, as well, to appease Julia. All the while, he kept that smug smirk on his lips. He was at least enjoying himself. And looking forward to seeing Hux’s reactions, and perhaps, his revelation that colors did look good, and could fit him.

Not even Wilhuff went with black. He went with olive.

Though, out of spite, August was planning on black. If Hux couldn’t wear it, then he would.

 

[KyloGlenn]

Kafrene sounded familiar to Paquin. From where escaped her, but she was sure she’d never been there. Perhaps it was some place her mother had run off to but made it back. Either way, she couldn’t help that Gnaeus’s words made her nervous. If any of them thought a place was dangerous, then it must really be dangerous. Ariel could see the worry on Paquin’s face, so she spoke up to quell it.

“No one is going to be left behind. We’ll be fine, we’ve all been to dangerous planets before and handled ourselves just fine. We’ll just stick together, get the lame ginger, and get out.” Ariel shrugged it off. She came from a crime-ridden planet, she was used to the risk of being kidnapped or murdered. “And we all have lightsabers now, it’ll be real easy to cut through a crowd of people if we need to.” Ariel saw Paquin’s nose crinkle at that. “Or just three of us.”

Paquin inhaled, straightening her posture. Even if she wasn’t very capable, the rest of them were. They’d be fine, or so she tried to assure herself.

“Anyone need a bathroom break before we leave?” Ariel jokingly asked, heading toward the door Kylo just came in from.

“Do we need anything before we go?” Paquin inquired, gesturing off behind her in a general sense. She just wanted to make sure they weren’t unprepared. Would they need first aid? Food? Water?

“I can’t think of anything,” Ariel answered easily. She had her lightsaber and that was all she needed. Of course, she took no consideration of the last time she drank anything. Water or alcohol.

-

Mira’s coffee could’ve been mistaking for liquor the way she was drinking it. Maybe Finn needed to invest in some decaf for her. He was fairly certain someone could get addicted to caffeine. The last thing Mira needed was to be dependent on any substance, but he supposed coffee was better than some things she could be reliant on.

Mira’s displeasure was plain on her face and Finn was surprised she was actually going along with this and not walking out especially when the dresses were brought in, all very extravagant. Some of them were flashy enough that he almost felt bad for suggesting sparkles and shiny things. Almost. Seeing her in sparkles and in various shades of pink? Would be worth any guilt he felt and pain he’d feel tomorrow.

“Let me know if you need any assistance,” Adelita offered to a retreating Mira. Some dresses could be a little difficult to get into on one's own.

Julia tried to troubleshoot what she could do with Mira’s hair. Maybe leave it down, have it cover the beads. Or not, depending on if the dress had sleeves. Hopefully, Mira’s beads would stick to a color that matched her dress and her makeup. She briefly wondered how her husband was fairing in his preparations for the party.

“Excuse me,” Finn spoke, catching Adelita’s attention. “Do you have a selection of suits I could look at?” He already had a suit from the casino but he wondered if he could find a tie or handkerchief, maybe even a jacket that was gold or had a gold accent. Just so he could match with his mom. Matching was fun, as proven with Mira. And he wanted his mom to have fun, she deserved it.

He also wanted to impress her a little bit. Prove that he’d been able to take care of himself. Maybe then she wouldn’t worry so much.

“Of course!” She would happily lead him to it. Their specialty was certainly more aimed towards dresses, but they had plenty of designer suits as well. Some dresses even came with companion suits for couples. Though that obviously wasn’t the intention with Finn, for he wasn’t her date.

And Finn wouldn’t stray too far, grab a couple things and return in time to see Mira in her dress. He couldn’t leave her alone with Julia, and he didn’t want to miss any potential material he could tease her about later.

-

Hux’s gaze snapped to August at his mockery. A teenager who’s rich parents don’t understand him? August must have been confusing him with Kylo Ren. The mockery did distract him long enough to miss the conversation of excluding black, at least most of it. He did catch the end, right as Inari was leaving them. “I do quite insist on black—“ Hux tried, but there was no indication that she’d heard him as she disappeared from sight.

The General repressed a sigh. His attention was pulled to Tarkin as he said it wasn’t so painful. Hux nearly snorted but was quickly caught off guard by his mention of Mira and impressing her. “Mira?” He said her name almost too quickly. “Why would I need to impress her?” He questioned, reverting his gaze back to the mirror in front of him. She was his Admiral. And his friend, they already knew each other. What was there to impress?

Hux was thinking entirely too much on it and the afterthought that it wouldn’t hurt to surprise her.

She’d likely be surprised an outfit that wasn’t his uniform and wasn’t absolutely hideous was pulled together.

He was drawn from his thoughts when the pink-eyed woman returned, an armful of outfits. She hung them up, turning back to the two gingers. “I pulled a couple things. Some navy, some gray. I also pulled a green number—it would pair well with the hair and the eyes. And something black with a little splash of maroon,” She had a suspicion that last one would be the one. It appeased both the General and the Governor.

But there was no harm in trying some of the others on, perhaps help Hux realized that some colors would look rather good on him. Something other than his drab charcoal uniform.

“Governor, if you wouldn’t mind giving us a little privacy,” Inari addressed, figuring that August could let up just long enough for Hux to actually get into a suit. The navy one would be a good start.