Fandom Star Wars

[Lucyfer]

Gnaeus certainly didn’t have answers for what they should do. Leaving Kylo alone for too long was likely a bad idea. Yet, if one of them moved after him too obviously, it also might be a bad idea, given Paquin would notice. He had a single idea though, when Paquin did take an actual sip of Ariel’s drink, “We can go get something tastier,” he suggested, “what sorts of flavors or drinks do you like?”

He didn’t know if Ariel would take the hint, that this was an easy way to split them. Whoever went to order the drink, didn’t need to bring it back. They just had to tell the bartender where to bring it, before moving out and after Kylo. Obviously, he couldn’t say that to Ariel, but he hoped even she understood it was stupid to leave Kylo on his own.

It wasn’t just Paquin’s emotions he felt, after all. Even through the haze of the bar, he could feel Kylo, though that was getting progressively weaker.

Gnaeus would wait until Paquin gave him some idea. If Ariel didn’t move, then he would go to get a drink for her, and leave her with Ariel. Maybe it would also be better if there weren’t too many ears around her, or too much pressure to say anything. Ariel was usually the more relaxed one. It made her easier to talk to…sometimes. Not all the time.

Though he also knew the repertoire he’d started to develop with Paquin; if he was left behind, he would stay behind and try to get Paquin to talk about what happened ‘outside’. When she had a bit to drink. And they had a place to sit and not just stand around.

~***~

Kylo Ren made his way back to the ship, and into the ship. It was only when he took a seat in the pilot’s chair that he began to reconsider his decision. ‘Maybe Snoke would never find out. He’d never have reason to think…to look for it…maybe….’

But he’d feel Kylo’s guilt, wouldn’t he? He’d sense that something was being kept from him.

Frustration hit Kylo, and he put his hands over his face and let the sound out. This wasn’t good at all. Nothing about this situation was good. ‘But….’ His mind went back to the feeling of her lips, that still seemed imprinted on his own, a slight soreness that he didn’t mind in the least. The press of her body to his had warmed him in a way no sun ever could.

He wished he hadn’t worn gloves.

He wished he could have felt her hair. ‘Damn it. He’ll know. Call him.’

And so, Kylo lowered his hands and tried to open a connection with Snoke, certain it wouldn’t be hard. He was likely waiting for updates on…well, far more important matters than Kylo faltering.

~***~

Mira had a feeling Hux wouldn’t be so inclined to remove all the blame from himself. It didn’t stop the chuckle that came as he started to roll his eyes. It was the truth, to some degree, anyway. She and Hux were both changed. She supposed she had Kevan to thank; the greatest gift her apprentice had given her, was her freedom. She may regret not going with him on Tatooine, but what came of it…it was hard to truly regret it.

Either way, she could work with the story of changes.

As she stepped out, her gaze did shift through the crowd. She knew she should mingle, and planned to head to August – work through him into other circles, and do the mingling and explaining thing. She saw him with Julia, and some others already, but she also saw Finn and his mother. She considered going to check in, before she noted Terex and nearly hit her own forehead.

She was fairly certain Terex was not invited.

So she’d have to go bother him first, before August kicked him out, assuming he didn’t already know Terex was there. Which was highly unlikely.

As that decision was made, she felt Hux’s hand on her back. The touch itself was startling if only because she hadn’t seen the gesture, and she straightened under it, before looking over to him as he spoke similar words to so many others. ‘Easy for you to say.’ Though she recalled how he had drawn his hand back just that morning, how she had shifted back.

Perhaps if she could deny the possibility that Hux felt anything beyond friendship, she could smother the feelings.

Just as she wished to smother the warmth that tingled across her back and chilled, as his hand left, and she watched him head towards Phasma. A brief flicker of a smile crossed her lips, before she pulled herself back together and went to where Terex was, arching a brow, “What are you doing here? I’m fairly certain you weren’t invited.”

Though she supposed she could call him her guest if it came to that. Her horribly underdressed guest.

~***~

Julia had all but dragged August over to see Phasma, and had immediately started to ask a thousand questions about where the other woman got her dress and her jewelry, and other such things, before beginning to compliment Phasma on her ability to adapt so easily to every environment – even the Spiked.

“It’s a shame Alexander is busy on Kamino right now, I’m sure he’d love to see you again,” Julia had noticed everything last night, and August chuckled a bit at that, wondering if this was another of Julia’s ships or if she was just amusing herself.

Phasma remained poised and collected throughout, in spite of Julia’s energy. “I am sure we shall see each other again, but right now it is good that there was enough forethought in planning the maneuver against Kamino.” Phasma indicated, before noticing Hux’s approach, and before August tried to pull away from the conversation, noticing Terex then.

Julia touched his arm and gripped the clothe of his suit tightly enough to make it clear he shouldn’t attempt to leave, “General Hux,” Julia greeted, “I hope you don’t mind, August and myself were just leaving.”

‘Were we?’ August knew he wasn’t going to be allowed to go stab Terex.

“Your lieutenant-general is impressive in her ability to adapt to situations. I look forward to seeing more from her and working with her in the future, but right now, we need to go speak to Queen Une and Count Dres.”

‘Ah.’ Serenno and Pijal’s representatives, which were, conveniently, talking already with a few others from Separatist planets. ‘Interesting.’ Perhaps word of Snoke had started to move those who had some insight into Force-hindering technology into coming together. Well, he couldn’t blame his wife for the convenient distraction.

He gave them a nod, “Indeed, we’ll be around to talk later, General.” He couldn’t pass up the opportunity, though as he let his wife take his arm to steer him, he did whisper, “Can’t we at least send him poisoned wine?”

“He’d know,” Julia responded simply, “We could have a sniper shoot him, but then we’d ruin the party.”

August just gave an overdramatic sigh, before smiling and stepping ahead to greet the newly elected Queen as they broke into the group, with a compliment to the new style of crown they’d adopted after becoming a constitutional monarchy, following in Naboo’s tradition.

Leaving Phasma with General Hux, “Sir,” she did greet him once the others left. They’d given no indication of a distraction. She managed to hide her surprise well at his appearance, but she was surprised all the same that he had dressed for the event, and not in his usual uniform. “Is that velvet?” That was the most surprising part, honestly. Perhaps she should have stuck to more formal or appropriate topics, but she had to know how he ended up in that, her question not so much to confirm fabric but to confirm how he was talked in to that.

Not to mention his hair…could he see well?

 

[KyloGlenn]

Ariel knew very well it was incredibly stupid to leave Kylo alone. Just in general, it seemed he often got into trouble when left alone. And it was especially so when there was this overwhelming onslaught of emotions coming from both of them. It was palpable through the Force, she couldn’t imagine it was pleasant to actually feel them.

One of them had to go look out for Kylo.

“I like water. And coffee.” Paquin wasn’t sure if she should bother with drinking anything, doubted it was a good idea. She didn’t want to get in trouble for it. But she knew that if there was ever a good time to drink, it was then. In the hope that it would make her feel...less. She didn’t know if that was in vain or not. Besides, Ariel was always drunk. And Paquin didn’t want to be not allowed to do something anymore. “I like fruit,” there were alcoholic drinks with fruit, right?

“Okay, good start. What’s your favorite fruit?” Ariel encouraged.

Paquin thought on it for a moment, welcoming something else to think on, “Strawberry.”

“Strawberry. I can work with that.” Ariel decided, sending a quick wink to Gnaeus. Ariel figured Gnaeus would be the best candidate for Paquin. If they wanted to learn what happened from Paquin, she’d probably be more open to speaking with Gnaeus than her, a woman she saw as competition. “Trust me. I’ll be back.” She didn’t say soon, but she would be back eventually.


Of course, Gnaeus would probably be better at speaking with Kylo, too. Ariel was fairly certain Kylo only barely tolerated her. But nonetheless, she parted from the two of them, telling the bartender to send over a strawberry sunrise with the suggestion of extra tequila. She didn’t return to her friends, but instead slipped out the front doors.

She didn’t see Kylo, but she assumed he’d return to the ship, so that was where she went, as well.

Stumbling up the ramp of the ship, she called out before entering. “Knock knock, I’m coming in,” she didn’t want to walk in on Kylo and surprise him and get accidentally stabbed. Or Force-choked. Or walk into him throwing a fit. She didn’t know what to expect.

-

Terex was, in fact, not invited. He was probably so not invited that he should have been on an absolutely do not allow inside list. But that was exactly why he was there now. Well, that and he was coming for his blonde boss’s boy toy later. But he didn’t need to crash Tarkin’s party for that. And speaking of his blonde boss.

“You’d be absolutely correct. In fact, I’m never invited to these things. I should be, I am the life of the party, after all.” Terex’s grin was smug, grabbing one of the fancy flutes of champagne, probably the expensive stuff. The Tarkin’s sure did know how to throw a good party, he’d give them that. He took a moment to eye the woman, the red outfit, the makeup. “You look like you belong here, Admiral.” It was a compliment and not.

He took a nice long sip of the champagne. Not his favorite drink, but he’s take advantage of the luxury of it. “Mm, you really should partake in some drinking tonight. Do a little partying. Loosen up. Everyone in here seems to have a stick up their ass, wouldn’t want that to happen to you.” The lines between whether Terex was recommending her to drink so she wouldn’t be an interference with Hux or because he thought maybe she should say her goodbyes before Hux was captured and likely offed, before war, were blurred.

Terex began to walk, eyes searching for the people he wanted to bother. He spoke, answering her question, “I have some stuff I need to attend to. One of which,” he reached into his front pant pocket, fishing for the drive he’d brought with him.

Maybe it wasn’t in his best interest to provide his future enemy with stealth ship blueprints, but Terex enjoyed a little chaos now and then. He liked spicing things up in life.

He pulled it out, waving it in the air for a second. “Your plans,” He informed, extending it out to her for the taking.

-

Hux managed to happen across Phasma and the Tarkin couple, speaking of Alexander Motti, it seemed. He caught the tail end of the conversation before he was acknowledged by Julia, this time not being laughed at.

She complimented his lieutenant-general, speaking of things he already knew. But it wasn’t bad for her to hear such things. “She is a remarkable asset,” he agreed. “I’m sure we’ll wind up speaking later.” He was fine with later. He was appreciating the short time he didn’t have to be on.

Once the Tarkins left, Phasma was the one to speak first. She didn’t laugh either. That’s why Mira and Phasma were among his most liked people. They were his only liked people, really. “Yes, it’s velvet,” he answered as he looked down at himself, still finding it strange to not see his uniform. Yet he didn’t feel uncomfortable. Just odd.

When he looked back up, his damn hair was in the way once again. It took all his willpower to not just run his hand through it, push it back and ruin it. “August’s idea. I didn’t have to spend a single credit on any of it, it was just easier to accept it than resist.” He explained. “The velvet seems to be going over well.” He shrugged one shoulder.

And then he gestured to her. “And that’s a dress. I’ve never seen you in one. Or heels.” Her standard uniform boots added to her already tall stature, but the high heels made her even taller than that. “Julia was right, you do adapt well.” That was a compliment. Him saying he approved of the look without really saying it. Mira was one thing, but Phasma he still thought to maintain a semblance of a professional relationship. ‘How is Mira different?’ His thoughts asked himself. He knew very well why. And he elected to ignore that thought. Denying it would mean nothing could come of it.

“Have you always had it?” He questioned, distracting himself. And if she hadn’t, when did she have time to go and pick a whole outfit out?

 

[Lucyfer]

Kylo Ren was in the process of calling out, but this call to Snoke was not answered before he heard Ariel’s voice. He scrambled, leaning forward to quickly cut the call, and wondering how he was going to explain that later. The guilt only intensified as he rose to his feet and stepped out of the cockpit to meet Ariel half-way.

He knew he shouldn’t be surprised. Paquin had gone back in, alone. He had just hoped they would be more concerned about her, and not think about where he was.

So he didn’t ask what she was doing there, as he folded his arms over his chest and kept a scowl on his face. “Can I help you with something?” He didn’t think to fix himself up any when he’d gone to the ship. At least his face would likely not be so red, but his usually flawless locks were likely not so flawless right then.

He wasn’t sure about his lips – whether or not he was still imagining things in regards to them, or not. It wasn’t as if he was used to the lingering impact of a kiss, or what was ‘normal’ in these situations.

Ariel would probably know.

He was not going to ask Ariel.

~***~

As Ariel left, Gnaeus did catch the wink and knew she understood. Still, he would end up watching to make sure she left, though he used it as an excuse to also find an empty table, “Let’s go over here,” he gestured when he finally saw one, and would move ahead to get across the bar, and lay claim to it.

He took a seat at the booth, fake hand ending up on the table, before he asked, “So, you’re not okay,” he told her, so she couldn’t try to evade it if he just asked her, again, if she was. He had a feeling that she would, and then they’d get nowhere at all. “What’re you feeling?”

He could feel what she was feeling.

It might help her to put it in words, though, rather than answer outright what had happened. He didn’t want this to feel too antagonistic – it wasn’t meant that way. He was worried by the sudden shift.

Alcohol would also, probably, help. Although they’d moved, the bartender was still able to locate them, and he came over with the pretty cocktail, putting it right in front of Paquin without a thought to hand it to Gnaeus at all. “Enjoy,” he said, before scurrying away.

~***~

Terex at least didn’t try to lie and claim he was invited, though as usual his words seemed uncertain. Perhaps it was just the lack of Force, but Terex remained difficult to read – and she hadn’t forgotten how labyrinthine his mind was. She gave a nod to his comment of looking like she belonged. She didn’t really want to, but it was better than standing out, even if red remained an eye-catching color.

She did roll her eyes at his suggestion, “I hardly need to ruin Governor Tarkin’s party by drinking.” Even if everyone else was, and everyone else was apparently still too prim by Terex’s standards. “This isn’t the casino kind of party.” And she had to make a good impression.

Now wasn’t the time to learn moderation.

Even if she’d advised blending in before to Finn and used that as a reason to drink.

As Terex started to walk, Mira did start to follow a couple of steps, curious of his business, but distracted immediately by the offered drive. She reached out for it, wishing then she had her datapad immediately accessible. Later. “And here I thought you forgot,” he did wait till the last minute. “Try not to get yourself killed,” her gaze flickered over to August briefly, who was only feigning interest in the conversation around him.

He was still keeping an eye on Terex. “I’ll let you tend to your business, I should mingle.” Should, but first things first – this dress didn’t have pockets.

Finn did.

She could trust Finn to hold onto this until the night was over. She could easily spot him over with his mother, and some stranger. Mira didn’t think it would be too terrible to interrupt, just from the read from afar, so she did approach them and lightly tapped Finn on the shoulder as he was laughing at some joke she must have missed. “Oh! Mira!” He almost immediately pulled her into the circle, putting a hand behind her back and pushing her forward, “This is Mira, the Gray Jedi master,” he introduced, “Mira, this is one of my mom’s coworkers – well, not just any coworker, the head of the museum, President Tarte,” his grin widened a bit. He didn’t know how someone like that ended up at a Tarkin party, but he was happy to meet people involved in his mom’s life.

“A pleasure to meet you,” Mira smiled, inclining her head slightly, “Finn, I actually wanted to ask you a favor real quick?”

“What is it?”

“Could you hold onto this?” She held up the drive. “I don’t have pockets.” She could stay and mingle with this President Tarte a bit to be polite if needed, but first things first.

~***~

Phasma could say much the same for Hux, if it wasn’t for the fact he was, indeed, forced into his clothing. And his hair seemed to be bothering him quite a bit. The clothes, and the hair, all made him fit in better, but it also wasn’t quite right. Or perhaps she was just so accustomed to his usual look.

“I would not think this look would go over poorly here. The velvet may be unusual, but beyond that, you seem to match the environment just as well,” Phasma returned. Next time, perhaps, he shouldn’t do the velvet unless he did want to have that bit of an edge on standing out.

She did glance down at the dress as he asked of it, “I do not have a proper dress uniform yet,” she was not even certain if that was a thing, in reality, though she had heard about it in the Empire. “I also foresaw the possibility of attending formal events before having such a thing, so I did find it prudent to acquire a few formal outfits in the earlier years,” Phasma answered.

She was likely fortunate to still fit into them, she knew she had also bulked a bit since then, but thankfully they still fit. It likely helped that they didn’t have sleeves. “Will you keep this for future outings?” He had not bought it himself, but Phasma could not imagine August would take it back, “Presuming our alliance with the Imperials remains intact, it may be prudent to retain attire fitting their…habits.”

To be seen with them, and to know what they were up to. It was clear to Phasma that quite a bit of background planning and shadow work went on here, even if she had barely touched the surface of this.

She intended to, of course. This may be a party, but it was a party for work, not for pleasure, and as Julia said…she was dressed for it.

And she would behave like it – a silver tray came by, and Phasma lifted a glass of champagne, as well. She would not get as drunk as the previous night. That much she was certain of. She had allowed the victory and the environment to get to her – the environment here was nowhere near as chaotic.

 

[KyloGlenn]

Kylo came to meet Ariel with crossed arms and a scowl, causing her to lift an eyebrow. She wondered if that was meant to deter her in some way. Even though they’d all felt what he and Paquin were feeling. Kylo had to know that. Whatever it was, it wouldn’t stop Ariel from getting to the bottom of it.

“Yes, you can.” She took a moment to examine him the way she had Paquin. She noted his dishevelled appearance, usually perfectly fluffy hair in disarray. His mouth held no evidence, but Ariel bet money if she’d shown up just a bit earlier they’d be red and pouty like Paquin’s. Ariel knew the look.

The just been kissed look.

Of course, her suspicions hadn’t been officially confirmed, but, “Y’know, usually kissing someone ends in good things. Good feelings. “ Ariel was cautious, but direct. Kylo wasn’t good with talking about his feelings. He was great with pushing people away. That thought alone should have clarified things for Ariel, but it didn’t, and she continued.

Ariel had a lot of questions. Who finally figured it out, who kissed who? But most importantly, “Which, naturally, leaves Gnaeus and I very confused as to why both of you are so...off.” To put it simply. “If you’d care to tell me what happened?” Maybe she and Gnaeus could help. Mediate, or something.

-

Paquin was a bit taken aback that Gnaeus confronted her about her feelings, not letting her forget them. Not that she really was forgetting them. Just trying to push them down with thoughts about fruit. She shook her head, “It doesn’t-” She began to dismiss when the bartender came, putting a pretty drink in front of her.

She mumbled a thank you as he scurried away, picking up the drink and taking a testing sip of it. It was sweet, tastier than whatever drink Ariel had. She eagerly sipped, as if it could drown the taste of Kylo. But it didn’t. Because she kept thinking about it. How his lips on hers had been sweeter than any drink could be, how her body felt against his, like they were supposed to be together.

But they weren’t. And her thoughts filled with how they would never be able to feel that again.

“I just feel...hurt. Not physically, but,” she trailed off. She ached. “I feel embarrassed, I-” She cut herself off, realizing that Gnaeus didn’t know why she was feeling any of these things. She was conflicted on whether to tell him or not. She thought it would be better to let it die. And if Snoke found out...she didn’t want Gnaeus to get in trouble for just knowing what happened.

Maybe she was being ridiculous. She fiddled with the stem of the cherry that decorated her drink, avoiding eye contact. “I kissed Kylo,” it felt strange to hear the words come out of her mouth. Even though she had kissed him, the words made it real. “And then he said that Snoke wouldn’t...we couldn’t. He’s right, I know, but…,” she wished he wasn’t. She just shrugged.

-

“I don’t forget things, Master Vallens.” Terex declared. “And hey, if anyone’s going to kill me.” It was going to be August. Though he was sure plenty of people were in line behind August. And that plenty more new people would queue themselves in that line soon enough.

“Think about what I said. May not be a casino, but...take advantage of the expensive stuff. I’ll see you later, boss.” Maybe. But those were his parting words as they wandered in different directions, her off to her ex-Stormtrooper padawan friend. Him, off to no good.


The group of three easily welcomed Mira into their circle, ready to invite her into the conversation, as well, when Mira asked Finn to hold onto something for her. “Oh, yeah. Of course.” Finn accepted the drive, briefly inspecting it before he slipped it into his pant pocket. He noted to ask her what it was later, but for now…

“So, you’re the Mira I’ve heard about?” President Tarte spoke, a warm smile on his face. He extended his hand for her to shake. “The Jedi Guide distributer. Ada has spoke much about you. And your interest in all things Grey Jedi.” Ada had spoken to him about selling the copies of the Jedi Guide within the museum. They’d been a great hit, giving the museum a significant boost in sales. “Unfortunately, the museum does not currently possess anything specifically related to such, but new artifacts are always coming in. The galaxy is vast,”
“Yes and you’re welcome to any of the exhibits we have now, should you like to search through some things,” Ada commented. “And it’s nice to see you again, Mira.” She hadn’t seen her the last time Finn came to visit.


-

There was no such thing as a dress uniform. Not within the First Order, anyway.

Even if there were, Hux didn’t think they’d pass well enough at an occasion such as the one they were at. August had insisted on no uniform. “Smart of you to think of such things,” he offered. “More than I had done.” Phasma was good at foreseeing things he didn’t. Apparently that extended to dressing for some politician’s party.

“Presuming, yes. It may be prudent to keep it around. Of perhaps invest in something...simpler.” Black. Plain. Versatile. Red velvet was exciting, sure. But hardly practical. Far out of Hux’s comfort zone. Most of all was the hair. He’d rather not have to match his hair to his suit. His normal hair would work with a plain suit.

He too grabbed a glass of champagne as it passed by, taking a sip of it. Champagne wasn’t his favorite, but he thought he’d earned something. Something to help get him started with this damn event. With the mingling he would have to do. He’d at least hoped that most of the conversations he’d have would be mindless. Formalities. Talking about the weather. Moving on.

It was all about making appearances.

And avoiding Carise Sindian, as she’d been spotted amongst the crowd of people, dressed in something metallic, the color of gunmetal. And a ridiculously high collar. Clearly her aim was to be noticed, even though as they locked eyes she quickly looked away. ‘Good.’ They’d both had enough of each other.

And he had other people he would make the rounds to talk to and would eventually end up talking to August and Julia at some point. “I suppose I have some people to chat up. You, as well, Lieutenant-General.” With her new rank, he didn’t have to be the only representative. While not the intention of her promotion, it was certainly a bonus.

 

[Lucyfer]

‘She told!’ Kylo felt a rush of anger wash over him, that was immediately tempered by fear. His dark eyes had widened, and his arms slackened a bit as he took a step forward, before he regrouped, and tightened them across his chest.

He swallowed, hard.

And Paquin had suggested Snoke wouldn’t find out, when she told this easily….

“So, she told you?” Kylo did state it, looking all the more annoyed for it. “She kissed me,” he confirmed, gaze drifting from Ariel to the wall of the ship. He wasn’t angry at Ariel. He was a bit angry at Paquin now, but still more himself, and still, more afraid than anything. “I let her. I kissed her back. I shouldn’t have. We both know what Snoke would do….”

Or perhaps Ariel didn’t.

She didn’t have relationships that involved attachment, and that realization, the inadvertent confession of attachment, caused Kylo to lift one hand and shove his gloved fingers back through his own hair. “I don’t know what to do.” His brow creased in that frustration, but also, that longing. He knew there was no hope to this – but that didn’t stop him from wishing otherwise.

It couldn’t continue, obviously. And he had to find a way to lessen the damage with Snoke, as well.

He didn’t know why he bothered stating that. Some hope Ariel would have an idea, perhaps – a satisfactory one that he wasn’t thinking of. That was unlikely, though.

~***~

Gnaeus did listen to Paquin’s explanations of how she felt. Hurt. Embarrassed. Of course, the reason why wasn’t there, and Paquin seemed to realize that, as he had hoped. In order to be understood, she had to explain – and she did.

She kissed Kylo.

He couldn’t keep all the surprise from his face. His brows rose up quite high, but he didn’t speak or say anything, he didn’t immediately spill the rhetorical ‘what?’ from his lips, as he let her conclude. Kylo, it seemed, had rejected it…but not because he didn’t also want it. It made sense that Kylo would worry immediately about Snoke.

For his sake.

For Paquin’s sake.

“You know…Ariel and I thought you two liked each other for a while,” Gnaeus confessed. “Kylo might be right to worry,” he’d give Kylo that much, “but…maybe that doesn’t mean this all has to end, if you both like each other.” Perhaps it was stupid, but they deserved some happiness, and Gnaeus had hardly forgotten how happy he used to be. How much an impact his own love had made in his life, before he lost it.

Before the negligence of the New Republic allowed atrocities to spread like wildfire.

“Kylo is Snoke’s favorite,” no question, “and there might be a way to negotiate it…somehow…or keep it from him for a while?” What would Snoke do, really? He wouldn’t just kill Kylo or Paquin. At least, Gnaeus didn’t think so.

He wasn’t dead and he was utterly useless with one hand.

“Kylo cares for you…that must be worth figuring something out.”

~***~

Terex’s advice would be noted, but not heavily thought on, as Mira stepped into the group and took President Tarte’s hand to shake, “Thank you, I am glad that the Guides were able to reach your hands,” and led them to Ada, and would preserve the memory of the Jedi and their teachings for generations – even if it was a memory of what was wrong, as Mira hoped.

She did give a nod to Ada, “It’s good to see you here,” good to see Finn and she were keeping in touch, even if she hadn’t quite forgotten being slapped. She was still a bit wary, given her loyalties.

She hadn’t expected much on the Gray Jedi, and expressed as much with a slight shake of her head as their hands parted, “I am interested in all things relating to the Force, be they tied to the Sith or tied to the Jedi. The Gray were never quite able to establish themselves well in the past due to competing influences. I would not expect there to be much, but if something is ever turned up, I would certainly enjoy a look at it – and a tour of current exhibits sounds like a good plan in the next day or two,” she glanced to Finn, “I’m sure taking a look at history of all sorts would do us some good.”

Finn nodded. It was a chance to spend more time with his mom, of course, but he also hadn’t seen too many museums in his life. He hadn’t seen any. He was curious about them.

“Of course,” President Tarte said, “I’d be happy to arrange a time that would work with your schedule.”

Mira returned the smile, “Just as soon as I have a better idea of that, I’ll let you know. I have a feeling I may be getting myself into quite a few things, all too soon,” best not to overcommit so early in the night, “but I know Ada,” Finn knew Ada, “So I will be sure to reach out again, if we don’t cross paths again tonight.”

Tarte seemed to understand, agreeing with a light chuckle, as a server came by with a tray of champagne flutes. Naturally, the president reached for one easily, as did Ada. Finn started, then hesitated, and when Mira rolled her eyes and gave a nod, he reached for one, “You want one?” He asked, but before Mira could answer, another swung by as if on a cue.

“Governor Tarkin actually thought she might more enjoy this,” it was a mug, of coffee, but there was something a bit off with the scent. Mira took it, aware she shouldn’t refuse something directly sent by August.

‘If this is poisoned….’ “Thank you,” Mira gave an inclination of her head, and took a sip of it immediately.

It was definitely coffee. It was definitely spiked – sweetened by it, but spiked. She sighed, before chuckling, “I suppose I have made my tastes fairly obvious.” One cup. One. She couldn’t believe August was of the same mindset as Terex – blissfully unaware they were even similar in some regards.

August had promises to Julia to keep.

“Finn, I think I’ll leave you in these good hands. President Tarte, it truly was good to meet you.” And she did intend to follow up on that, and one other thing, “Finn, remind me of our friend, later. The DJ.” Not a DJ, but the twi’lek friend of Kevan. She’d been promised a call back that evening.

It might end up fairly late, but she would do so.

It took a Finn a moment, “Oh! Right! Yeah, I will,” he agreed. He would also ask about what he’d been handed, but not in the crowd, “Go have fun mingling!”

~***~

Phasma accepted the comments with an inclination of her head, “Thank you,” she did try to keep the future in sight, after all. The future was what they were all aiming for, and while she would always feel more comfortable in her armor – not everyone was comfortable around her in the armor. Their problem, but also, potentially, the First Order’s problem.

It was a small thing to concede a uniform.

“A couple may be a good investment for the future,” Phasma agreed. “If things are to continue in this fashion.” Which, it seemed, was likely. Perhaps not only because of the First Order’s own relationship with the Tarkins, which was meant to only extend to military aid, but because their Admiral’s extra activities with the Gray Jedi and likely move to become far more involved in the political sphere. She could certainly bring Finn to these things…and yet, it seemed likely she would want to bring Hux, or at least extend the invitation.

Just as she was likely to end up at events such as these, again, because the First Order was invited, and she did now have a role.

She took a sip of her own champagne as Hux expressed that he would need to be moving on. It was a rather tasty drink, at least, though she knew she could ask for others if she went up to the counter that had been converted to an open bar. “I shall go and meet some of the people here,” some she already knew of, as allies, or parties the First Order were interested in for certain assets. Senators with worlds that held resources…she might do well to make an impression on some of them.

Either way, she would let Hux move off, before going her own way, letting the young Queen of Naboo join the party with August in her approach of another Senator who had something of a military history. It was something she could start with.

 

[KyloGlenn]

Ariel couldn’t help the surprised look on her face when Kylo said Paquin kissed him. She didn’t really think Paquin had it in her. But she also thought that of the two of them, Paquin would be the one more likely to figure out her feelings.

And Kylo would be the one more likely to fuck it up.

Not that he did it by being stupid. He was scared. Which was a strange thing to feel from Kylo, fear. He wasn’t scared of much. “No, she didn’t tell me. No more than you did. Though, Gnaeus is likely persuading her to share.” Ariel didn’t think mentioning Paquin was drinking would go over well. “What do you think Snoke would do? Kill you? He wouldn’t. Not you. Not now.” But Paquin. “Not her, not if he thinks she’s useful.” Snoke needed them. But Ariel also knew Snoke could do worse things than kill them.

Ariel sighed, “You care about her. In a way I haven’t seen you care about anyone and she cares about you, somehow. And if you make each other feel any of that warm and fuzzy stuff, that’s worth working something out. Risk and reward, and all that. Maybe there’s something that can be done with Snoke. If he thinks it’s productive or there’s something he’d benefit from, he might allow it.” Ariel didn’t know what she was talking about, really. What was there to even benefit from? Front row seats to makeout sessions? “Maybe he’ll be too occupied with Hux, there’s time to think about it.”

Maybe Snoke would be a collaborative effort. She waved that off. “I don’t know you for giving up on things, not easily. And this shouldn’t be something you give up on. Believe it or not, not everyone finds that person.” Ariel didn’t and she didn’t think she ever would. “Talk to Paquin.” Maybe she’d have a better crack at Kylo. Void, even Gnaeus would. “She’s feeling the same things you are.”

-

Gnaeus’s surprised look didn’t go unnoticed by Paquin, and she briefly wondered what of that was what surprised him. Maybe all of it. But she didn’t think much on it past that, immediately being surprised herself that Ariel and Gnaeus seemed to catch onto their feelings before they themselves did. Had it been obvious?

Obvious to everyone but her. And Kylo.

Paquin sipped at her drink, gaze set on the table as Gnaeus seemed to encourage whatever it was that Paquin had started with Kylo. And she’d be lying if she said she didn’t want to pursue it. Because she did. Especially as Gnaeus said Kylo cared for her, and that new feeling of warmth spread through her, her cheeks turning pink. And that unfortunate feeling of longing making itself known again.

Despite that, she bit her lip and shook her head. Some favorite Kylo was, when Snoke still easily abused him. Scared him. Paquin didn’t want to admit it, but maybe Kylo was right. She didn’t want Kylo to get hurt because of the kiss or their feelings. “That’s a nice thought, but…,” she shook her head. “I don’t know. I suggested that to Kylo,” and he didn’t seem convinced.

“I don’t want anyone to get hurt. And I don’t want to push Kylo. If he doesn’t want to, I’m scared to mess things up between us any more.” Because surely she had to have. She didn’t know where they’d stand now. She still cared about him. She still wanted to be his friend. She wanted to at least go back to how they were before, if that’s all they’d be allowed. If Kylo even wanted that.

Despite what was coming out of her mouth, a product of her brain, her heart was yelling at her to do the exact opposite.This wasn’t fair and it wasn’t normal. She sighed, knocking back the rest of her drink, something that was not made to be chugged as she was drinking it. ‘Fuck you, Snoke.’

-

Caius Motti had begun making his rounds, working double time as he was missing his ever so charming twin, Alexander. He was busy with Kamino. But the Senate was never really his thing. And neither were such parties, as much as Alexander would deny that. Things went much smoother without his disaster of a brother. He wasn’t a people person.

Amidst his mingling, he spotted the blonde haired Admiral that his brother seemed hell bent on mocking. Of course, Caius would admit his participation. He found it absolutely ridiculous. But Alexander was much more passionate about his objection to it. Nevertheless, he thought he ought to approach her, even just briefly.

“Admiral Vallens,” Caius announced himself. “Or is it Master? I’m not quite clear on what you’re representing yourself as. First Order Admiral, leader of this Gray Jedi. Conflicting interests, it seems like an oversight on General Hux’s part.” Caius hadn’t thought Hux to be the type to be blinded by such things. But Hux was full of surprises. However, he wasn’t there to criticize. Too much, “You look well,” he offered, noting the outfit and the makeup. He’d heard it was the work of Julia. And he’d yet to see Hux’s new outfit.

“I thought you did surprisingly well in the Senate meeting today, better than I’d have thought,” of course, she wasn’t as put together as some. Still required some mild defense from himself and August, others joined in. But it hadn’t been a disaster. “I know my brother and I haven’t been courteous. And I still have yet to see your qualifications. But since it seems we’re set to work together, I feel I ought to extend any assistance, should you find you need it.” It didn’t seem like Hux would recognize his fault, and August decided they’d work with the First Order while opposing Snoke.

And Mira seemed smart enough to learn. Wherever her intellect may be placed…

-

Hux said a quick goodbye to Phasma as they parted, Hux looking to a group of Senators he was familiar with who possessed some amount of support for the Order. At least, prior to Starkiller. Hux really dreaded having to re-establish such connections, but nevertheless he set his stride.

Only for a shiny, metallic dress clad Carise to step directly in his path. Hux nearly groaned.”General Hux!” She greeted, clearly having some sort of purpose.

“Senator. Don’t you think we’ve seen enough of each other today?” He asked, attempting to step around her, only for her to move with him.

“Is that velvet?” Carise questioned, her hand reaching out and touching the fabric of his suit without any permission to do so. It took every ounce of willpower in his body to not overtly jerk his arm away from her touch. She was not Mira. She was not even an acquaintance. Of course, he did none of that. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen you out of your uniform, General.” She decided.

“If it were up to me, that would still be the case. Can I help you with something?”

“Mm, I bumped into your father. He asked me to tell you that he’s looking for you.”

Hux’s brow quirked. Who invited his father? No one liked his father, that was a fact. Except Carise. “And why would he task you with this instead of finding me himself?”

“I suppose he’d figured I’d see you first. After all, we are quite the popular pair now. We’re all over those gossip articles. The tabloids really love taking pictures of you and your potential lady friends. Though, I’m sure I don’t hold a candle to Miss Mira, was it?”

Hux elected to ignore that, though his eyes did glance around for the blonde. He might need an escape sooner than he thought. “Well, since you’re also more likely to see Commandant Hux before I, you can tell him I’ll speak with him when I find the time. I have much to do.”

 

[Lucyfer]

Kylo supposed he ought to be relieved that Paquin hadn’t told Ariel. Ariel just figured it out. It didn’t, however, cause him any relief. That just meant it was obvious, and it would be just as obvious to Snoke. He balled his hands into fists, the frustration of that building alongside the deepening fear and paranoia. One, small, insignificant action – or at least it should be – and so much could go right to hell.

Because it wasn’t just a kiss. Not as such a thing might be for Ariel. It had been a confession of returned affection, of desires he knew he shouldn’t have. Of attachment.

Ariel understood why he was afraid, at least. No, Snoke wouldn’t kill him. He would suffer in other ways. Paquin? He wasn’t so sure. He’d seen Snoke inflict horrors on others worse than death, but they also, still, usually died. Yet Ariel, stupidly, still saw some hope in it. “You haven’t seen what Snoke can do.” His voice was low, recalling the first apprentice, before Kevan.

He didn’t get mentioned, or thought of, much, except in those moments when Kylo needed to recall why no one went against Snoke. “There is nothing Snoke would gain from this, and I would not want him to think he could use it,” he could at least see how that could go. He’d use it, by promising the death of Paquin if Kylo failed. Something like that, that kind of control, and Kylo didn’t want to fall into that situation again.

Or he’d start fucking with her mind.

“Would you risk it – if you found someone, Ariel, would you risk what Snoke might do just to have a few, particular, moments with them?” Wasn’t it better to ignore it and press it down, better to keep them alive, than to risk what Snoke would do?

And at the back of his head, that thought, ‘Then why do we follow Snoke? What does he offer that we can’t accomplish without him?’ And that thought he tried to push very far down into his consciousness, because if Snoke ever heard that thought…he might very well kill his ‘favorite’.

~***~

Gnaeus did not know how much went discussed between them, but he doubted it was much of a discussion. The pair hadn’t been out that long. No doubt all that was done was in the heat of emotions, no one was really thinking through these things, just reacting. “None of us want anyone to get hurt,” Gnaeus noted.

He didn’t want to suggest anything to get anyone hurt. He thought he knew Snoke, and he did see the risks, but couldn’t this also be something he overlooked?

“I don’t think either you or Kylo have had much time to think about this and really talk,” Gnaeus noted, “Kylo’s fears might be…legitimate,” he would admit that much, “but that doesn’t mean he has to go with his gut reaction, or that the pair of you can’t think of something after a few moments with the feelings.” With the fear, and the affection, and the desire to likely find a way to maintain that latter.

When she chugged it, Gnaeus couldn’t help the slight smirk, even if it was tinged with some sorrow at her position. “I think you two just need to talk a bit, about the risks, and what this means to you. I think once he’s finished having his own panic attack that someone actually likes him, he might listen some more and think of something. He’s never been one to give up on what he wants.”

He had that stupid Darth Vader mask, after all. Once.

“Speaking of, do you need another drink?” Liquid courage helped. Sometimes. He wouldn’t be able to get Kylo to drink.

~***~

Mira had left Finn, for another party with a familiar face. She sought those out, to clear the air and answer the concerns they had. Those who knew her as Mira Ren needed to know what changed, and why Snoke could not be supported. It bit into her pride a bit, but with each conversation, she felt she was making progress in turning those who had considered alliances with Snoke, against him.

Even if it meant admitting she’d been deceived and hadn’t known it all.

Even if that could imply she didn’t know it all now. Which, she didn’t.

It was an odd state to meet Caius in after noting his approach and stepping out of her group to meet him apart from them. His greeting started out appropriate, but all too soon turned critical. Mira’s gaze narrowed a touch, wondering if she’d just signed up to be insulted again, but she let him finish, finishing up her spiked coffee.

The insults were lessened with his slight commentary on her role in the Senate. He was offering assistance. She knew she might need it. She’d been swallowing enough of her pride that night in making sure those she knew under the title of ‘Ren’ understood the turn. “Master, or Admiral, is good. I suspect Master is more appropriate for tonight, and perhaps, in general. My qualifications for Admiral are abnormal,” she couldn’t say she had none, “Mostly limited to skirmish battles in single fighters or corvettes, and a wide knowledge of space and Wild Space mapping, so an understanding of spatial environments and how to work in them, but I could use assistance in…wide scale battles and the utilization of larger ships and larger squadrons.” The traditional skills of an Admiral, she suspected. “I have requested more literature on the subject,” which Terex did not deliver, “but I know those do not offer everything needed. If you would be willing to make the time, I will work with a set schedule, Admiral Motti.” For the Order’s sake, she needed to up her skills.

Skills Caius and Alexander had, that she lacked.

~***~

‘How do I want to fuck up Carise’s night?’ It had been a thought that came back to August, now and then, as he preferred to ignore her presence entirely. He had noticed when Caius broke up to speak to Mira, and he smiled inwardly. Though the twins were a mess, they were his Admirals for a reason. They listened to him, and in listening to him they also knew where to take initiative. They couldn’t stay forever at odds with an allied Admiral.

Though they would likely remain jerks. And forever find ways to make it clear they were the better Admirals.

That wasn’t a concern to August, so long as they worked together. Just as Adelaide would work with Phasma on the field of battle. Hux could call himself General all he liked, but August still saw him as something apart from that. Phasma was the General in the Order.

His real concern was arranging a few trade deals so he could set some of his engineers to finding ways to fuck up Kylo Ren and the rest of the Knights of Ren, forever, now that he knew something like that existed. Kohlen and other materials seemed useful, but when he saw Carise step over to Hux, his thoughts shifted.

The General didn’t need to deal with that tonight, and as August parted from his group, he heard some mention of the man’s father. No, he was definitely not invited, and he didn’t see him anywhere. Of course, somehow, Terex got in. He’d fire his security later and make sure they knew who to keep out in the future.

He intentionally bumped into Carise in his approach, “General Hux—oh, sorry, Senator Sindian, I absolutely did not notice you there,” he absolutely did, but he wanted to make it clear she wasn’t making an impression, at all. “General Hux,” he redirected his attention immediately, “Count Dres had a question I thought you may be able to chime in on a bit, would you care to join me back with the Senators of Serreno and Pijal? We’ve been discussing the Clone Wars a bit and the technology of the time that so few have followed up on – apparently there were shields against lightsabers.”

Really it was an excuse to get Hux away from Carise, but it might be interesting to hear what Hux knew on kohlen crystals, if anything. He had a feeling that knowledge had never gone far from Pijal, given even Count Dres was surprised.

 

[KyloGlenn]

Kylo’s question made Ariel stop to think for a moment. To think if she herself would do what she was preaching for Kylo and Paquin to do. Ariel shook her head, “It’s more than a few, particular moments.” What she did, the sleeping around, the meaningless stuff. Those were just moments. “I don’t want anyone hurt. But I would risk it.” Perhaps it was stupid. Perhaps all of this was.

She liked to believe she had a good idea of what Snoke could do. She was scared of him, a reason why leaving was never even considered. And she knew the rules. The attachment rule. One she’d already broke, she knew. She was attached to Kylo. To Gnaeus. Even Paquin, even though she hadn’t been with them for as long. Another reason why pulling a Kevan or a Mira was never an option.

Still, knowing what could happen, “It would be a calculated risk. Snoke is in our lives for a short time, long enough for him to tell us what to do. As long as we do what he wants, why can’t we fill the rest of our time with something we want?” Because then they wouldn’t be the aimless machines Snoke wanted them to be.

But it wasn’t an argument Snoke would care about. It wasn’t something Snoke would see the reason in, it wouldn’t excuse anything if the Supreme Leader decided he didn’t like it. But was this really something Snoke would disapprove of so harshly?

Ariel shook her head. “Whether you risk it or not, it’s not something you should decide right now. Or on your own. You’re both feeling a lot of things, things I assume neither of you have really felt before.” It took them this long to realize they liked each other, after all. It was unnatural. She knew who to thank for Kylo, but Paquin was a mystery. “Sometimes it’s good to utilize your emotions, but now is one of the times you should sit and breathe. Think through what happened and how it makes you feel. Not how you supposedly should feel.” Ariel wondered how many instances Kylo actually had taken a second to work through his emotions, rather than just use it. Of course, Ariel couldn’t talk much on that.

She liked to drown her feelings in alcohol.

-

Gnaeus was right. They hadn’t had much time to talk at all. That was her fault. He’d rejected her, even if it was just because he didn’t think it would end well and not because he didn’t share her affection, but she’d thought space would be good amidst her hurt. Though, she suspected even if she had stayed, their conversation would be fruitless.

They both needed a moment to collect their thoughts, more or less.

“You’re right, we didn’t really discuss anything—I need to talk to him,” she agreed, but the nervousness was still there. She didn’t want to get her hopes up that maybe there was a chance that whatever was between them didn’t have to end with their one kiss, despite what Snoke might think or do.

She knew what she felt. Her particular fondness for Kylo. Talking to him would allow her to know how to apply that fondness.

Attention was brought to the drink she downed, and she briefly remembered Ariel who was supposed to be with them but wasn’t. She likely went to check on Kylo. Paquin knew it was a good thing, despite the twinge of emotion she now knew the name of. Jealousy. It was fleeting, but there. It quelled, but it seemed to become her gut reaction when thinking of Kylo and Ariel. Another thing for her to address, with herself, however.

Her thoughts were falling off track. Which she could probably credit to the drink she’d consumed already. She wouldn’t say she needed one. But did she want one? Absolutely. “One more couldn’t hurt.” She wasn’t experienced with drinking, she could count on her hands how many alcoholic drinks she’d had in her life. She was a bit of a lightweight. Paquin knew she couldn’t have too much, not when they had a task. Not if she wanted a clear-ish head to talk to Kylo. But, liquid courage. “This all started over me refusing a drink from that guy. And here I am.” Paquin mused.

-

“Master it is,” Caius settled. It was more fitting for her, at least at that point in time. He imagined she had to have more knowledge in the Force and such things than she did managing grand scale ship battles. The Force was something Caius hardly involved himself with, but thought he ought to now. Since their main enemies were Force users.

Snoke. The Knights of Ren, which Mira was formerly apart of. Caius tried not to hold it against her, as critical of it as he may be. Hux for following Snoke, as well. He was critical and suspicious of a lot of things, only because he had to be. It had kept people alive thus far. But both Mira and the General seemed to be genuine in their departures.

“I’m afraid your qualifications as an Admiral are unfortunately lacking, indeed. But your knowledge, even of smaller, single fighter ships and your understanding of space should prove to be a decent starting point,” he offered. Though, her knowledge of such things had yet to be tested. But from his understanding, her previous purpose given by Snoke was to map Wild Space. That much, he’d think to be true.

“Reading on the subject wouldn’t hurt, but it doesn’t completely translate to actual experience.” He was sure she knew that already, but he transitioned into his point, “Perhaps, if it can be fit into the schedule or it becomes convenient, you could shadow Alexander.” If his twin was there to hear the suggestion, Caius would be strangled. Alexander would hate every moment of it, probably do his best to make Mira hate it as well. But there was no better way to learn than hands on experience, and such an embargo could serve well.

Literature didn’t teach how to communicate with squadrons and crews. Didn’t teach you what to do when you have five seconds to make a decision for however many fleets that are commanded. “I believe it to be pertinent, as we’re going to work together, that you be competent in your position. Perhaps my brother and I will have you qualified to be an Admiral.” Caius would give Hux the benefit of the doubt that Hux didn’t intend Mira to be a genuine Admiral, more so just giving her a high rank. But with Mira willing to step up to the plate, and all of them on the same side, it benefited everyone that she knew what she was doing.

-

Carise had been just about to say something before August bumped into her, causing the woman’s jaw to clench, She knew August saw her, she was wearing an offensively shining dress, after all. She understood the point the Tarkin was trying to make. She wasn’t even allowed to say anything, as August engaged in conversation immediately following their interaction.

It wasn’t Mira, but Hux was still thankful for the chance to escape Carise’s clutches. The woman’s voice alone was grating, it sounded like scraping metal. Her outfit was entirely too fitting.

“Shields against lightsabers?” That subject genuinely piqued Hux’s interest. With their rivals harboring some lightsaber wielders, that would be useful. And in combination with the void stone, which still required some testing to figure out just exactly what to do with it. How they could utilize it. For now, it could serve to keep Mira’s mind safe from Snoke.

Which should also be something to figure out.

The subject also earned Carise’s curiosity, but she said nothing. Perhaps Supreme Leader Snoke would want to hear of that. If he didn’t know of such a thing already. Another thing to share with Brendol, she supposed, even if the Hux was likely to take all the credit for it.

“We’ll see if I can contribute anything of value to the conversation,” Hux was eager to leave Carise behind. “I believe many have been hesitant to touch on the Clone Wars, perhaps it’s time to revisit it.” For many, that had just been the beginning of the end. But it seemed many old technologies of the time were we surfacing. For both sides.

Perhaps Mira would be more likely of any of them to know something about these lightsaber shields, but nevertheless he’d be more than happy to involve himself, “Shall we?” He was content to leave without speaking another word to Carise Sindian. But she wasn’t.

“If I see the Commandant, I’ll tell him as you said. Enjoy your night, General,” Carise’s smile was forced, and there was something behind her words that the ginger General couldn’t quite place. But he brushed it off, offering her only a dismissive nod. Carise’s gaze landed briefly on August before she simply turned around and walked off.

 

[Lucyfer]

Yes.

It was not the answer that Kylo had expected from Ariel, and he was not sure if it was the one he wanted. Whether he wanted confirmation from someone outside that the pursuit was worth it, or whether he wanted confirmation that it was not worth it. Idly, he wondered what Kevan, what Mira, would have said.

It was a connection that damned Mira, yet she lived.

For Kevan…Kylo was not certain the moment he turned, nor even the reason. He was not even certain if he had said anything to the Resistance under his pseudonym that would be deserving of death. It hadn’t mattered. He had been captured, and the likelihood had been present. Then he went and acted of his own accord. He had been setting up a rebellion of his own. Why? ‘What was worth that?’ Questions he would never have answered.

But affection had been the downfall of many. Anakin – Darth Vader, fell twice for it, once for love, and once for family. A different sort of love, but a love all the same. He was more than aware of why Snoke would worry of attachments, of feelings. They weakened everyone. They broke their resolve.

And Kylo had seen a future where his own attachments, his own inability to be harder on the Knights, led to their destruction.

He wanted to ask her, what she would do if she knew it would end in death. If she knew it would end in destruction, but the back of his mind nagged at him. He didn’t know. Snoke didn’t know. It was a possible future, but the details of how it came about, the exact path to it? That remained unknown.

He rolled his eyes a bit at Ariel’s statement of feelings. “I know how it makes me feel.” He wasn’t feeling anything he shouldn’t be feeling, or thought he should feel. His fear was real. That fear came straight from the fact he had enjoyed the kiss, he had desired it, he wanted to deepen the connection that brought Paquin to that moment and to that action. It cleared up the jealousy in his head. It gave it a name, and a reason. “If I didn’t, I wouldn’t be afraid.” He wasn’t that dense.

But it was also an unknown, an unknown he had fully expected to never know, and venturing into that…if it was worth it, as Ariel so claimed…what would that mean for his future? Where did his path go, if he found it was worth it, and Snoke disagreed?

He was silent on these thoughts. Ariel might have a point that he needed to think through it, and perhaps that also included thinking through it with Paquin. He wouldn’t want to put her through it, if she understood the risks and found them too much…but if she understood them, and still…?

It was hard to imagine anyone would be stupid enough, but there he was, wondering if there was any logic in what Ariel had said.

“I wanted a better galaxy, Ariel.” That much was true, “The path to that is in front of us, with Snoke.” Wasn’t that worth setting aside selfish things like this? Wasn’t that worth it? He wasn’t sure if he was trying to convince her, or himself.

The better galaxy included these things, for others. The Knights were ever-excluded.

~***~

Paquin saw it clearly enough when it was stated. There hadn’t been enough time to come to any conclusions. Gnaeus couldn’t argue that any good would have come from them staying out there longer and talking, immediately. He didn’t know for sure – but he did know Kylo, and sometimes Kylo did need to step away. His temper was infamous for a reason, and pressed the wrong way, he might have ruined everything, forever.

But he hadn’t. Paquin had stepped back, and Ariel was talking Kylo down, too. His own emotions weren’t so close any longer, but he also didn’t feel the disturbance so strongly in the Force any longer, either. So, he presumed Ariel was doing her job well enough.

He did smile, a bit tightly, as she indicated another drink couldn’t hurt. It could…but he thought it might help more than anything. He raised his good arm to get the attention of a waiter, and then looked back to Paquin as she mused over how this began. “Most good stories begin in cantinas,” he noted.

It wasn’t like any good story began with a glass of milk. It was usually always liquor.

“It’s made Kylo have to acknowledge how he feels. If we never escaped our isolation,” he gave a slight shrug, “Well, I do not really think Kylo would ever truly see me as a threat,” no matter how he positioned himself. And if he did? Gnaeus wondered how that response would be, or how much longer it would take to get one. “It’s also made you have to acknowledge it now, too. Perhaps we owe that man a drink,” he joked a bit.

He wouldn’t be sending anything over.

The waiter did come over to their table, “What can I get for ya?” He asked.

Gnaeus said, “Whatever it was she had the last time,” he realized he had no idea what drink that was, and he looked to Paquin for some sort of flavor-idea, in case the waiter also had no idea what this random patron of the bar had ordered.

~***~

August gave a nod to confirm the question General Hux asked. Yes. A fascinating subject indeed, and quite useful for their future endeavors, not only against the Knights of Ren, but potentially, the Jedi, if they opted to make a fuss. Force-dependents would be put down quickly. Mira, in theory, would be fine – she was on the right side. But she might have to learn to adapt.

In either case, he was building a future that would make those who used the Force less influential, in general, through intimidation tactics. Mira did not seem to be relying on those. “I agree,” it was long past time to revisit the Clone Wars. That had been a war against Jedi. Against Sith.

The technology of that era was endlessly useful, but of course, with the rise of the Empire and the end of the Clone Wars, that had meant a quick shutdown of that sort of research. The Emperor couldn’t have anyone rivaling him, and Snoke also couldn’t allow that, so no doubt the First Order was woefully unprepared – but August always had a fascination with the droids of that era, and that gave him certain contacts that helped now.

He gave a nod to Hux’s words, and ignored Carise entirely. He intended to continue to do so. Public snubbing was a humiliating enough message, and he knew others would follow suit, to some degree, if they saw Carise as a persona non grata. Carise cared about that. Terex didn’t – unfortunately. Snubbing him did little for that man’s enthusiasm to annoy him.

If he hadn’t tied himself to the Admiral, August would have considered shooting him more seriously. As it was…he had to play nice with the Admiral, as well as the General, of the First Order.

Speaking of, “Master Vallens.” He said it as they walked near enough by.

This did concern lightsabers, after all.

~***~

Mira certainly would not argue with the use of the title ‘Master’ here. She supposed plenty would start to use it. The First Order would likely stick to Admiral, but those outside of it, she had a feeling, would start to default to ‘Master Vallens’. She wasn’t yet decided how she felt about that – if she wanted to be known more for her acceptance of the First Order, or if she wanted to be known more for the Gray.

Time would tell.

As it was, Caius had a point – literature could not tell her everything. She learned that all too often. Books on survival had helped, but on an uncharted planet, with unknown plants and animals? Experience had been the best, and most painful, teacher. Some basics were useful – bright colors on animals generally meant danger, unless they were of the avian varieties – things like that.

Dragons were deadly everywhere.

There would be some things from the literature that helped, basics that could be built on to create a foundation that experience would build on. Even if she did not like the thought of working with Admiral Alexander, and likely could work with someone in the First Order, this seemed like an opportunity not to pass up.

Alexander was already placed somewhere, after all. Not First Order forces. An embargo might be boring, but there was reason for it, and things Alexander would know to watch for. An embargo could also, easily, turn into a full-scale battle. “I would accept such an opportunity,” no matter how frustrating it may be, “I am not yet certain of my own schedule at this time, there are some other matters I also have a need to tend to,” she hadn’t forgotten that she was supposed to also work on helping Hux understand how to withstand mental probing via the Force, and August.

Times for that needed to be figured.

The Senate would likely be setting another meeting soon. “However, I would anticipate I will find some time in the next day or two, if Admiral Alexander would have time to accommodate lessons on such short notice. If not, we can set something up for the future.”

As she said it, August’s voice broke in. Mira shifted her posture just a bit to be at an angle to him and Caius, and noted Hux was with him. A smile flickered across her lips briefly, before her gaze returned to August. “Yes, Governor?”

“We’re having a discussion about lightsabers. You seem to be the resident expert, so I thought it could not hurt to invite you along. Do you mind, Admiral Motti?” He was playing nice. He was curious what he was doing, but he presumed he’d be briefed soon enough on that.

 

[KyloGlenn]

Ariel looked up, silently asking the stars to give her the strength to not smack Kylo silly for rolling his eyes at her. She wouldn’t actually slap him, especially not at that moment. But she was very, very tempted. What was it that Paquin liked about him? Ariel’s eyes settled back on him.

He was panicking, not processing, something she didn’t mention to him as she felt she could almost see the thoughts rattling around in Kylo’s head. He spoke of wanting a better galaxy, which she knew, and that the path lied with Snoke. “Is it?” Ariel couldn’t help the questioning remark that came out of her mouth. She paused for a beat, knowing she shouldn’t have said that. Snoke wasn’t there, but it wasn’t something that should have left her thoughts. Even then…

Ariel shook her head. “It’s what we all want, Kylo,” she assured.It was, in their own ways. “It doesn’t have to be one or the other. You can better the galaxy for everyone else and yourself.” Maybe it was something they’d have to prove to Snoke. That Paquin and Kylo’s relationship wouldn’t be a distraction.

“I understand your fear and apprehension, but you don’t know what’ll happen until you try.” Ariel reached out, clapping Kylo on the arm. “I just think it’s about time something good happens to some of us. And I think you of all people are due for a little bit of good, Ky.” Ariel’s hand dropped back to her side. They all were, but Kylo especially. He tended to take the brunt of things. From Snoke. With the loss and betrayals of Kevan and Mira. There was the whole controversial killing his father thing.

Ariel often wondered what went on in Kylo’s head. He’d never tell them. This fear and longing he was feeling not being something he’d normally show. He expressed anger outwardly. But did he ever miss any of them? Was he ever sad? Admitting he was would mean he had attachments to them, but attachments seemed unavoidable at this point. She wouldn’t press things like that, it was a good way for her to get Force choked. "I can't promise it'll go well, but there's no promise it'll go badly, either."

“Don’t convince yourself of anything before you talk to her,” if only because Ariel hoped Paquin could convince him to pursue them. “But whatever you decide, we’ll help in whatever way we can.” ‘We’ being herself and Gnaeus.

-

Paquin chuckled at the idea of owing Yoel a drink. “You can get him one,” she shook her head. Yes, the situation forced them to acknowledge their feelings for each other, but it just as easily could have done the opposite. They could have pushed each other away. Paquin felt she’d been close to it, recalling their brief argument. When Kylo physically pulled away from her, before they kissed.

That hurt, though not as much as when he pulled away after she kissed him. And there was still potential for them to push each other away, Paquin had yet to communicate with Kylo.

The waiter came around to their table, both him and Gnaeus looking to Paquin for descriptors of the drink. Paquin had no idea what she’d been drinking, either. “It tasted like strawberries. And it had fruit decorations, which I ate. And it came in a glass like this,” she held up the curvy glass she’d been given. She couldn’t name whatever alcohol was in it.

The waiter looked at her for a moment, briefly wondering if she was old enough to be drinking. But obviously she was. “I think I got it,” he laughed a little as he took the glass from her. “I’ll be right back.”

Paquin offered a ‘thank you’ to the fleeting form before turning back to Gnaeus. “And thank you, Gnaeus,” she felt he was also deserving of thanks. For many things. She felt more at ease than she had earlier, though still anxious. Just not so much. The alcohol probably helped, too, but…”And I’m sorry for the...mistreatment from Kylo.” She understood now, reflecting, how their feelings for each other tied into their treatment of Gnaeus and Ariel. Paquin had been a bit mean to Ariel, but Kylo seemed to react more aggressively to jealousy. “I’m not sure where he’d have gotten the impression that I was ever interested in you.”

She quickly added, “No offense! It’s not that you’re unpleasant in any way, I just...like Kylo.” That was obvious. Luckily, her drink was set in front of her and with a quick thank you, she eagerly sipped on it.

-

Hux was not pressed in the slightest over Mira joining the conversation, not only because her presence had never been unappreciated by him, but if anything he was looking forward to hearing what she had to say on the subject. If she had any insight or otherwise. It was a good topic to discuss with someone who actually knew the Force and lightsabers well enough.

He noted the smile on Mira’s face. As fleeting as it was, he felt the tension from dealing with Carise leave his posture. Shoulders relaxing in the company of at least one person who doesn’t make him want to claw everyone in the room’s and his own eyes out. A smile threatened to spread, but he didn’t allow it. The two seemed to be giving the wrong impression of what they were, unknowingly, recalling something Carise said about ‘lady friends’.

Hux was not one to drink at events, but he’d admit he’d needed more to drink before conversing with Carise. And he’d definitely need more to drink before he spoke to his father at some point. Maybe the Commandant would be kicked out before Hux had to speak with him.

“Not at all,” Admiral Motti spoke. He turned to face Mira one more time, “I’ll tentatively make arrangements,” arrangements being informing his brother of the no doubt largely undesired situation. “Just provide me with a time. Governor, General Hux. I’m sure I’ll be seeing the both of you again this evening.” August, surely, reassurance that he’d be updated on his plans. Hux presumably. With that, he took his leave.

Hux was undoubtedly curious about what arrangements were being made, especially since last he checked, Mira was not popular with the Admirals Motti. But, much like August, he figured he’d be informed on whatever the situation was. “I’m not certain how acquainted you are with Clone War technology,” few really were. Hux would assume she’d be more familiar with the Jedi or the political side of the War, “But Governor Tarkin mentioned the possibility of a shield against lightsabers.”

Obviously it was something of interest. There were so few things that withstood an attack from a lightsaber. That, paired with the still mysterious abilities of the void stone, non-force sensitives could stand an actual chance against those like Kylo Ren and his band of Knights, or any enemies that might come. But still, the void stone would have to be understood better, if they could do anything with it. And these shields would have to prove real.

He’d save his quizzing for whichever Senator brought it up.

 

[Lucyfer]

There was a beat of silence when Ariel dared to ask if the path to a better galaxy was through Snoke. The question bordered on treason. It bordered on betrayal of the same sort that Kevan and Mira had pulled. Questioning Snoke’s methods always led to terrible ends, and he waited that moment, thinking, hoping, she might apologize or take it back.

She didn’t.

But she did clarify they were on the same page – that they all wanted a better galaxy, and that would have to suffice. So long as Snoke never heard that comment, or saw in their heads…it would be fine.

He certainly wanted to argue more. He did know what would happen. Snoke had made these things very clear in the early years, years Ariel and Gnaeus had not been a part of, years before the First Order. And then his expression screwed up at ‘Ky’, irritation with the nickname obvious. “You don’t know Snoke the way I do, Ariel.” And she shouldn’t. She should never know Snoke the way he did, the way Mira and Kevan had.

‘Yet if he’s the one to follow….’

Kylo really didn’t like those thoughts. He had made his decision a long time ago. That should be it, shouldn’t it? Snoke’s methods weren’t…kind…but they were what was necessary.

He knew there was little point arguing with Ariel. All she wanted right now was for him to talk to Paquin, and he would at least admit that he owed Paquin that much. He wasn’t sure what else he might be able to say, but he at least owed it to her to talk this through. Not Ariel.

He wouldn’t head back to the bar. He could hope, at least, that it might take Brendol a while longer. Even if it didn’t, Gnaeus was there. He turned back towards the cockpit. He knew now he couldn’t reach out to Snoke and come clean. He’d have to try and hide this. “I’ll talk to her,” he said, “Because I owe her that, but don’t get your hopes up, Ariel.” She was ridiculously invested in this.

~***~

Gnaeus chuckled, “I think that might send the wrong message to Yoel,” and the last thing Gnaeus needed that day was someone getting all riled up because a man sent them a drink. Stars knew how some could get about that sort of thing and he wasn’t looking for a fight. Or for the guy to start flirting with him if he wasn’t angry over it. “I think I’ll just ignore him.”

That was after the waiter had taken the glass. He fell silent then as Paquin began to speak once more, offering her gratitude and trying to get around her awkward statement.

He tried not to laugh any more, but he failed a bit and shook his head, “No offense was taken, Paquin. You’re not my type, either.” Then again, no one was. He’d had his love, and he’d mourn it the rest of his life. It was the fuel that kept him among the Knights of Ren and reminded him that this was the right path.

Pirates didn’t care.

The New Republic didn’t care.

So their methods had to be harsh.

“I like you as a friend, as well. I can’t say I know what you see in Kylo, but…if it makes you two happy, that’s all one can look for in this galaxy.” That bit of happiness, “Even if it gets taken away.” It was worth having, for a day, for a second.

“Besides, I knew what to expect from him when I tried to make him jealous. I’ve known him a bit longer than you.” He was used to his behavior. Even when it wasn’t jealousy, he was just…an angry person. Irrational lashing out was anticipated. He didn’t deal with negative emotions well at all.

~***~

Mira gave a nod to Caius. When she had a time, or a better idea, she would provide that to him. He left easily then, and August chuckled a bit. Perhaps buying the coffee on Caius’s account had gotten to him – or perhaps he did see a point to making the situation better. He’d find out later. He let Hux brief Mira on what they wanted, speaking of Clone War technology.

She didn’t know much, and she shook her head to indicate that, “A few things, but it was never my area of expertise,” nor one she explored much of. Kevan had more of an interest in it than she did. “I’ve never heard of such a thing. I’ve heard of armor that can withstand it.”

“This is more advanced than that,” August said, “If they aren’t lying.”

Qui-Gon certainly would have chimed in – if the presence of the Void Stone didn’t make that impossible. He knew of a shield against lightsabers. He’d encountered it, and watched the Jedi Council make sure to keep that a secret. He’d have to confer with Mira later…assuming he was ever able to talk to her again. She remained closed to his influence now, mind shut tight.

He considered trying to buzz around Finn, instead.

While Mira, meanwhile, would move with August and Hux back to the group including Count Drus and Queen Une. “General Hux, Master Vallens, please meet Count Drus of Serenno, and Queen Une of Pijal, and – oh, Sister Kontress.” He arched a brow.

The zabrak woman gave a simple shrug of her shoulders, “I heard talk of lightsabers, shields, and clone war tech. It seemed vastly more interesting than debating who ought to be on that special council with others or being asked innocuously if I’m a Sith.” Though her posturing showed disdain, it did flinch a bit when Hux had gotten closer, though naturally, she couldn’t pinpoint why.

Suddenly the Force was taken out of the area, and she looked to Mira, her gaze hard, wondering if that was her doing.

Mira didn’t respond to the look, and August continued, ignoring it. “I suppose that does get tedious, and yes, we were discussing these rather interesting things. Count Drus?”

The man wore the infamous Serennian cloak that remained ever in fashion on the planet, “Governor Tarkin and I were talking about further research into the confinement fields that used to hold Jedi, and advancing it to create fields that would impede the use of the Force—”

“Seems you’ve made some strides,” Kontress noted, agitation remaining.

“Actually, no,” August answered, “That is, the field you’re in is not man-made. We intend to replicate it at a later point, and that sparked my curiosity in the old confinement fields. But we weren’t even thinking of lightsabers until Queen Une mentioned the – what are they?”

“Kohlen crystals,” she said. She was the youngest of them all, certainly no older than 16. She did seem a bit intimidated, “Before my home became an elective monarchy like Naboo, kohlen was used against the Jedi by…by another queen,” by the very reason they definitely went towards an elective monarchy. “I thought now it may be a time to mention them.”

“I thought kohlen were just false kybers…,” Kontress mused.

The girl shook her head, the heavy headdress sliding down a bit, and she pushed it quickly back up. “It looks like kyber and that’s why people discarded it, since it couldn’t be used like kyber. But it can be useful. Only…I’ve never seen it used against a lightsaber myself, and I’m not certain how it was done.”

“That’s not an issue,” Drus smiled, though it held a bit of condescension to it, “I can make field generators powered by crystals.”

“Oh.”

“But given the rarity of them and no records of them being used this way, I wanted to find out more about what we do know of the Force and Lightsabers – if we know anything about kohlen, or if other methods had been looked into by the First Order?”

Mira shook her head. On this, she could certainly say she knew nothing. If Snoke knew, he hadn’t dared to share the information. “I’m afraid I don’t know, but I’d certainly be willing to help test them.” A shield against lightsabers would be useful against Kylo Ren and the others. She certainly didn’t know if Hux had any side projects himself or knew anything.

 

[KyloGlenn]

Ariel ignored his distaste in the nickname. She was sure she’d started saying it because it annoyed him, but it became a term of endearment. To her, maybe not to him.

“You’re right, I don’t know him like you do.” Ariel knew that much. None of them did. Not her, not Gnaeus, certainly not Paquin. All of this started with Snoke and Kylo, so naturally Kylo would know him well. And that’s where Ariel considered maybe he was just freaking himself out because he was hung up on all that he knew Snoke could do. Not what he necessarily would do. Could it really be that offensive to Snoke?

‘Yes.’ Ariel elected to ignore the conflicted feelings she had and any thoughts that suggested Kylo was right.

She was pleased that Kylo agreed to talk to Paquin, even if he told her not to get her hopes up. “I won’t, I won’t.” She was ridiculously invested, but more so because she wanted to see the people she unfortunately cared about happy. And she’d be lying if she said she didn’t love a bit of romance.

Ariel didn’t expect Kylo to head back to the bar, it was probably better if he didn’t. Not only to avoid running into Yoel again and other drunk people—he didn’t have a good track record of interacting with inebriated people, herself included—but a cantina wasn’t exactly the best place to have a somewhat sensitive conversation. She’d head back, let them know that Kylo had settled and was available should Paquin want to slip in.

And as much as Ariel wanted to be a fly on the wall for it, she’d mind her own business, “I’m going to head back, get a drink or too. I’m gonna need too to be able to endure the Big Hux.” Ariel hesitated a beat. “This thing you have with Paquin, it’s something people long for a reason. Maybe it doesn’t mean much coming from me, but I’m sure you could think of a few people who would agree.” Gnaeus. She didn’t say Anakin, but she did think of him. Or even Kylo’s parents. “And you somehow managed to find the one person in the galaxy who happily ignores all the red flags you give off. I know you’re scared of what Snoke will do, rightfully so,” maybe Snoke should think about how forbidding attachments has gone in the past. Ariel flipped the hair out of her face, knowing her thoughts were digging her a hole.

“You’d be foolish not to let that go. And at the end of the day, we’re all headed towards early graves anyway,” she shrugged. She knocked once on the wall of the ship. “You know where to find me, boss.”

-

Paquin was relieved Gnaeus didn’t take offense to her poor wording. She hadn’t meant anything by it, and her thoughts were a bit jumbled. Not only from the alcohol, but her thoughts were racing from the situation to begin with. Though, the alcohol certainly did help with the lack of word filtering. Paquin hadn’t thought there was much alcohol in the cocktail, but there was enough to affect her, though not to the point where she couldn’t function.

She couldn’t help the chuckle that came out of her when Gnaeus let it be known that he didn’t see what Paquin saw in Kylo. She supposed that was a fair assessment on his part. ”He’s been nice to me,” in his Kylo way. They’d had their moments, of course, but there was no denying she’d been treated differently than Ariel or Gnaeus. She’d just assumed it was because she was the new one, until then.

Perhaps she could have said what she saw in Kylo or defended him, but she didn’t. As it had been stated, Gnaeus had known Kylo longer and knew him well. And Paquin knew aspects of Kylo left much to be desired by other people, to put it nicely.

Her giggles faded as she dwelled on Gnaeus’s words. She knew he meant to be encouraging. But it only made her question if she and Kylo should allow there to be anything to take away, and she didn’t want to think of all the ways it could be torn away or fall apart. On the other hand, she knew Gnaeus was right. And she knew, even as short as their encounter seemed, that it was something she didn’t want to let go of.

It only fueled her frustration. She knew she couldn’t resolve it on her own. If it could be resolved at all. She sipped the cocktail, the liquid quickly disappearing already. “I think if you know Kylo, it wouldn’t be hard to guess how he might react to something. He was a bit known for it in the Order.” Everyone gossiped about Kylo Ren, some who weren’t terrified liked to make fun of him. He was an angry person, it was apparent in him. And his anger seemed to be encouraged instead of helped. Still, “I’m glad Yoel didn’t know Kylo,” she wondered how long they would’ve gone on the way they were. And even with the frustration and hurt it caused, she didn’t regret any of it. But maybe it was too early to regret it.

-

Hux noted the flinch of the Zabrak woman as they approached, though her glare didn’t settle on him, but rather Mira. He suspected Sister Kontress felt the effects of the void stone and didn’t think Hux to be the culprit, but rather his Force sensitive comrade, who he supposed would be the more likely suspect. He assumed she felt it, anyway. Perhaps Kontress wasn’t a Sith, but Nightsisters tended to be of the Force wielding variety.

It must’ve been a strange feeling, the sudden deprivation. The loss of connection to the Force that was a constant. It wasn’t something Hux could particularly sense, as he didn’t hold that ability.

Or perhaps Kontress just didn’t like Mira. He wouldn’t be surprised if Mira had a club of people who didn’t like her already, that’s just how politics went. He didn’t know and, like his companions, he wouldn’t comment on it.

He also didn’t know their company, having never met any of them in person. It had also been quite some time since he was directly involved with the New Republic and the Senate. He was familiar with Count Drus’ existence. But the girl he apparently thought he was superior to, Queen Une, was unfamiliar to Hux. Pijal, though, the General thought he’d heard of it before.

The Queen seemed no older than a teenager, her mannerisms almost confirming that. She seemed the slightest bit uncomfortable or nervous, something. Perhaps she was inexperienced in things like this, or concerned about the information she was bringing forward. Surely, Count Drus and his light patronizing did not help.

Hux did not agree with putting children in positions of such high power. Elected or otherwise, he thought it was archaic and accredited the practice to the continued disorder of many planets. As smart as a child might be and with the few exceptions of past successes, he just thought of how he’d been when he was likely her age. He’d been ambitious, but hardly competent enough to be a good leader of anything.

Not to mention, children were easy to manipulate. He would know.

Still, despite Hux’s thoughts and opinions, he would not be disrespectful towards the young Queen. She had information and even potential resources. And perhaps she’d be an exception, but he wouldn’t hold his breath.

But apparently Kontress had felt the shift in the Force, as she commented on the Void stone, not that she knew what it was. Not that they’d share what it was, not just yet. They had other subjects to discuss, this kohlen. He couldn’t say he recognized the name off the bat, but the effects sounded like something that might have been messed with at some point in his career, particularly something he’d presented to Snoke.

“Years ago, when the Order first collaborated with Snoke and the Knights of Ren, during…,” raids on often poor planets with histories of mining and occasionally special interest in the Force, “early resource gathering—“ that sounded better. “We came across a few crystals that looked like kyber. I gave them to Snoke, but apparently they had little to no resonance in the Force. On a surface level they looked like kyber, but were useless.”

“Do you still possess them?” Count Drus asked, to which Hux shook his head, immediately regretting the action when his usually stiff hair did not stay in place.

“The First Order is not in the habit of holding onto things with no use,” it sounded vaguely threatening, but it was not meant as such, and was pointed at no one. But he let it stand. “And if we did, they’d likely have been destroyed along with Starkiller.” Perhaps it was insensitive or unfavorable to bring it up, but he did not shy away from the subject. “The point being, I don’t believe Snoke is aware of any crystal with such potential,” given the properties of the kohlen were true.

“Which could be an advantage, given this kohlen could do as it is said to.” He turned his attention to the teenager among them. “Queen Une, would you be willing to allow access to these crystals, to test them? The resources to test them are at hand,” he meant Mira. And means of developing them into some sort of shield would he easy to obtain. Hux didn’t plan on including the Count, but if he was considered high enough, he’d think on it. “We can work with your terms, of course, but it could be pertinent with the issue at large.” He did not want to overwhelm the girl with any propositions.

But the Queen of Pijal could prove to be a valuable resource.

 

[Lucyfer]

Kylo knew she would still get her hopes up. Her and Gnaeus. He didn’t know if he could blame them for anything that happened and have Snoke’s anger shift. Probably not. He didn’t want it to shift onto them, anyways. He didn’t want any of them hurt by Snoke. ‘Then you should get rid of Snoke.’ That thought he definitely pushed down. Tried to convince himself that he still needed Snoke.

Snoke had set this in motion. Snoke had the clone troopers, and much else besides. In order to accomplish the ends they all wanted, they needed Snoke and his resources. Kylo didn’t imagine they’d all start listening to him if he took over. Even if the thought played in his head briefly.

He should have called Snoke.

It was too late for that, and he rolled his eyes at the comment of the ‘Big Hux’. He might need something to drink to deal with the ‘Small Hux’, but he didn’t say that, and he wouldn’t, of course. As much as Brendol jr annoyed him, he could handle him. He’d handled him for years.

Still, Ariel didn’t linger there, but instead talked of Paquin again. How what this was, was something special. Perhaps it was. “Thanks,” he allowed some sarcasm into his words as she commented on all the red flags. Which, was probably accurate. If Paquin thought about this, she’d realize how stupid it was.

And if she still wanted it….

Kylo didn’t let his thoughts trail too far ahead. This was hardly familiar ground for him. “If she’s there, you can…tell her she can talk to me, here, if she wants to.” He wouldn’t blame her if she didn’t want to, “I won’t come back for a bit,” even if Paquin didn’t show up.

It didn’t help that the ship was, definitely, not wood that Ariel had knocked on, but he wouldn’t bring that up. He would let her go, and see whether or not Paquin did come to him. If not, he probably needed to meditate on these feelings for a bit and try to come to some resolution within himself.

~***~

Gnaeus knew that Kylo had been nice to Paquin. He’d treated here differently than he had done Ariel or Gnaeus, even in their early years. It was what clued him and Ariel off to the potential for something more in the first place, after all. Didn’t change the fact Gnaeus wouldn’t have wanted such a relationship with Kylo, or a pretty, female version, of Kylo, either.

He had a limitation on crazy. Kylo was definitely past that limit.

At least the angry kind. Which he had known to be wary of, and he did give Paquin a nod. “I’m sure we all had our reputations,” perhaps mostly for being dark and scary and unpredictable because they weren’t around much, but he figured they were all negative things. “But you know he’s not only his reputation.” As Paquin said, he’d been kind to her.

It was definitely good that they were away from Yoel, though. That kid had no idea what he’d nearly gotten himself into. Kylo probably needed anger management therapy, but that was the last thing Snoke was ever going to allow. His anger was a tool. Power. “Though I think he still needs help with managing his anger.” He said with a shrug, and a quick sip of his drink.

Paquin probably agreed with that. Even if she knew there was more to him.

~***~

If kohlen had been found by the Order, Snoke never mentioned it. If he even understood what it was, or what it could do, he had never shared that with his Knights. Mira, certainly, could confirm never having any information shared with her. She didn’t believe she’d ever come across any kohlen herself in Wild Space, though she would have to go back through her records for anything like that.

There had been a lot of planets logged. She tended to report on crystals on the chance they ended up being useful.

Queen Une was the focus of Hux’s address, though.

It was something August took more note of than Mira, and something he found quietly interesting, given the way his own posture seemed to shun Drus into interjecting. Drus had already indicated he had the ability to use and work with the crystals, but of course, he didn’t have a lightsaber. He didn’t have anyone with the Force.

“Oh. Um,” apparently, Une thought there might be more worked with between Hux and Drus, as well, “Yes, I could allow the First Order a few samples. If they end up working as effectively as we’ve heard, we could negotiate trade of the crystals, General Hux.”

“Perhaps if you recall where those crystals you found before, and showed to Snoke were, we could also investigate those worlds. If they are kohlen, that gives us more to work with,” August added. “We would want to do this before Snoke becomes aware. If they work against kyber, we may find use for them beyond shields. Plenty of weapons in our starships are powered by kyber….”

The potential was there. If they could block all kyber-based weaponry, beyond lighsabers, they would have a huge advantage in the war, but that would require quite a bit of kohlen.

“That may require new weapons for your starships,” Drus noted, sounding a bit put out that he was being removed from the process of testing the kohlen.

“Electrum works fairly well in place of kyber,” Mira noted. She’d used it on her own ship, before it had been destroyed.

August arched a brow at that, but nodded, “My engineers have already been looking into alternatives to kyber as it is. We can’t rely on one thing forever, especially given the increasing scarcity of it.” Electrum was rare, as well. Rarer, he knew. He used it in his own stealth vessel, as did the Carrion Spike. That was why it tended to show up in smaller vessels, rather than larger ones. “Queen Une, would you be able to have some of the kohlen here tomorrow?” He shifted the topic back to that.

“Mmm, I should be able to,” she answered, “Um, how many do you think a good sample would be?” That was addressed to Hux, since he was the one she’d be offering the sample to.

 

[KyloGlenn]

Paquin could tell Gnaeus all about their reputations. The unanimous one was that the Knights were all too mysterious for comfort. Then there was a long list of theories on who they were, what they were like. And a lot of very strange suggestions from bored Stormtroopers on cleaning duty. She wouldn’t get into those. But like Gnaeus said. Not only was Kylo more than his reputation, they all were.

“He’s more than his anger, but it tends to consume him,” Paquin commented. She knew there was much more depth to him than his anger. If there wasn’t, Paquin didn’t think she’d feel the same way about him. “He does need help managing his anger,” she could agree with that, “but I don’t think he’s allowed to get any.” There was a lot she imagined that wasn’t allowed. But it wasn’t healthy for Kylo, or the people around him. The only person who benefited from it was Snoke.

Their situation, for multiple reasons, was complicated and convoluted.

It was then that their red-headed friend returned to them, sans Kylo, and slipped into a seat next to Gnaeus. Ariel huffed as she sat, “How are you doing? Did you like the drink?” She asked first, though Ariel knew from Paquin’s look that she had wasted her breath on small talk.

“I’m okay. I did, this is my second one,” Paquin looked down at the drink that she was near finishing already, stirring it with the straw. She looked back to Ariel. “Where’s Kylo? Is he alright?”

“He’s back on the ship,” she didn’t answer if he was okay or not, thinking perhaps it would give incentive to go see him. “He wanted me to tell you that you can go talk to him, if you want to.” Ariel offered. She tried to leave it at that, but then pushed, “Do you want to?”

“I do,” but she hesitated. If she hadn’t been nervous before, she certainly was now. She wasn’t sure what outcome she was nervous for. Any of them, really. She sighed, deciding to forego the straw in her drink and simply down the rest. She stood, pausing, “You guys are good friends.” To both her and Kylo.

“We try.” Ariel said nothing more, knowing Paquin was stalling. There was a beat of silence before the brunette inhaled, and disappeared into the crowd of drunks. As soon as she was out of sight, Ariel turned to Gnaeus. “Did she tell you what happened?”

-

Paquin moved through the cantina, easily slipping in between groups of people drinking. Once outside, she fell into place amongst the groups of migrating people. It was once she was in the thick of it that she remembered how apparently unsafe the planet was. Perhaps she shouldn’t be walking alone, especially not when she was an easy target, but she didn’t feel unsafe. Kylo and Ariel had done it. Besides, she had a lightsaber and the force. She could protect herself well enough.

Where they landed wasn’t all that far from the cantina, anyway. It was dark and increasingly crowded as she neared the docks, but it did not deter her. She found herself outside of the ship all too quickly. She hesitated just a moment at the base of the ramp. She wanted to talk to him, she did, but she wasn’t sure what to say, or if she wanted to face any of the potential outcomes.

Paquin knew what to say would come naturally. And that she didn’t want to leave things where they were. So, before she could talk herself down, she ascended the ramp. “Kylo?” she called out gently, to warn him. Give him a chance to tell her to go away. But not too much of a chance, as she proceeded to the cockpit. “Ariel said you were open to talking.”

Paquin took a seat in the co-pilot’s chair, facing towards him. “I do think we should talk. About...what we do from here. I don't want to leave things where they are,” and she wanted to hear from Kylo why he rejected her afterwards. What his concerns really were and just maybe if it was something they could work through.

-

“I’ll look back through the Order’s records.” Hux stated. He’d have to go some years back, but it wouldn’t be hard. After all, the First Order was all about maintaining order, in all aspects. At least, his was. There was a period of time, following Sloane’s time and predating his run as General, where some things were a bit...askew. But so far that proved not to be an issue.

The talk of new power sources for weapons, Hux also wondered if the void stone could effect kyber, or if it was restricted to the Force. Something he’d bring up to Mira, later. The less people aware of the stone’s existence, for the moment, the better. Same with the kohlen. Word spread too fast in such a big galaxy. When the potential for such an advantage existed, he couldn’t risk Snoke finding out.

“The urgency of finding a kyber replacement is dependent on whether kohlen works as we believe it to be,” Hux commented. Should the kohlen work, finding a new source of power quickly would be in their best interest. Of course, the General wasn’t that stupid. Hux knew finding a kyber substitute, in the long run, would be necessary. It was growing scarce years before even Hux was alive, and it was being mined to near extinction as it was. Electrum, in the context of war was no better—if anything, was worse—than kyber. But the galaxy was vast and there still remained planets that had resources untouched. Planets still undiscovered.

He didn’t mean to tear worlds apart, as the Empire had done. As Snoke had been willing to do. Another area the Empire failed. Where Snoke was failing. He’d do what was necessary to win the war, of course. Once it was over, he’d do his best to restore what he could. He knew what war torn planets were like, and such things did not align with his vision. He’d avoid chaos as much as possible.

Hux pondered for a minute, how many kohlen samples would be useful. “Three, small crystals even, would be sufficient if you could supply them.” That would be enough, they didn’t need many. It would be quick to find out if they really were lightsaber resistant or not. Hux figured three would be enough. One for Mira to test. One for himself to investigate, or August if he so desired to. And Hux knew, despite his instinctive distaste for Drus, that the Order did not have the technology needed at hand, even if it wouldn’t be difficult to acquire. Time was of the essence. And Count Drus had the technology to test the kohlen already. And if Hux made decisions based on whether or not he liked someone or not, the Order would not be where it was. Well, if he made all of his decisions based on who he liked.

“I appreciate the accommodation, Queen Une. Should the kohlen work as expected, I look forward to negotiating a trade. Count Drus,” directed his attention to his next target. “The First Order would be ready to compensate you, if you’d be willing to troubleshoot a sample with your field generator technology,” Hux offered. Hux did not want to add to his list of enemies, or people that disliked him. Which was already a long list. And now was not the time to ostracize those who could be useful.

Hux wanted to avoid the instance that Count Drus might turn around and provide Snoke and Ren with the information obtained. Or even Queen Une, even if she didn’t seem like she would, he didn’t want to underestimate her. And sister Kontress...he wasn’t quite sure how she’d fit into this. But he certainly didn’t trust her either.

 

[Lucyfer]

Gnaeus scooted over in the bench to allow Ariel space, not bothering to ask why she couldn’t go sit by Paquin. That was obvious. Without Kylo here, that meant Paquin should probably be leaving to check on him herself. At least, he hoped that was the reason, and that seemed to be confirmed soon after Paquin noted she was on her second drink.

She downed that drink on hearing that – well, after a hesitation. Gnaeus managed not to smirk at that, or even smile. Though, he did smile at her compliment to them. “It’s a hard job.”

With Kylo, anyways.

It wasn’t too difficult to be good friends to Paquin. She didn’t really torture them, or get irrationally angry.

Paquin hesitated again, but then, she was gone, steeling herself. Gnaeus let out a breath he hadn’t quite realized he was holding in waiting for her leave, and then he looked over to Ariel. He leaned a bit into the table in front of them. “Yep. She kissed Kylo.”

That was still the most notable thing. “I didn’t think she had it in her, but I guess she’s probably had a more normal life than the rest of us.” Probably at least had a first love, or at least, a few crushes. He wasn’t sure Kylo ever had anything like that before. Or Mira or Kevan for that matter, though Kevan had retained some sense of his humanity and normality.

Only to go and fuck it all up. “You think we’re doing the right thing?”

~***~

Kylo had sensed Paquin’s approach as she neared the ramp, and he took a deep breath to try and steel himself. He hadn’t gotten far in his own thoughts. They continued the same circles of logic, over and over, when he knew this wasn’t a matter of logic. It was a matter of feelings, emotions, and while he could use some of those – like anger – this was foreign to him.

He could sense her own hesitation, and he tried to draw back then, suddenly feeling invasive to be so aware of her presence and her hesitation, before she stepped up onto the ramp. As she called out to him, he also did, “Here – cockpit,” as if it wouldn’t be obvious where he was.

She headed that way, noting that Ariel had delivered his message, of sorts, that he was open to talking. He nodded to confirm it, and turned in his own seat to face her, folding his hands in his lap as he leaned forward a bit. “No, we need to reach an understanding of how we’re proceeding from this point,” he agreed with her assessment.

The way things were right now held little closure for either of them.

His gaze flickered down a moment, brows knit together, before he looked back up, “I am wary of pursuing anything. My wariness stems from what I’ve been taught by Snoke, and what I’ve seen him do. I do not believe he will agree with this, and I believe he will find out, even if we choose not to tell him. I am not sure if…telling him would make it any better.” He did not say he was against it. “I would not want to put you through what his discovery may mean.”

Which Snoke might see anyways, and Snoke may understand that as too much attachment anyways. Kylo wasn’t really sure there was any winning where Snoke was concerned. “I know that…another situation, another…I wouldn’t hesitate.” But this wasn’t ‘another situation’. There was no ‘other situation’.

This was what he was given.

~***~

The conversation was largely hypothetical, something Mira recognized. There was much to be discovered about the kohlen first, before they could determine what would be necessary in dealing with it, and what would be worth it. Creating entirely new weapons for ships might not be worth it at this time, but the possibility of those kinds of shields was certainly an enticing one.

No one could deny the potential before them.

“Three?” Queen Une blinked once, twice, startled by such a small number. Even Count Drus looked surprised, and perplexed, by it. “Oh. Oh that should be easy,” she agreed, smiling, before it flickered away in thought of whether or not it could really be that simple, “I am certain I can get those here within a day or two.”

“If they have the desired results, I admit I’ll need a bit more than three to work with. Field generators required six to eight, depending on the size of the generator.”

August thought to interject his own thoughts, but opted on silence. He had some generators he could play with, too, but he’d let them work things out. He was bored, but not that bored, and why waste his own engineers’ time when other people were willing to do the work? “Sounds like we have a plan then. Queen Une, thank you for being willing to speak with us on this. I trust nothing will leave this group?”

He spoke that to all, and Count Drus scoffed, “You know my opinions well enough by now, August.” It was too familial, but August didn’t correct him. He did, though – Drus was tired of Force users. Count Dooku hadn’t given Serenno a good name, and had wreaked his own sort of havoc on the planet. “I will look forward to seeing what can be discovered, together,” his gaze shifted briefly to include Hux, but also to Kontress, the outlier, who was smiling. “What is it?”

“Nothing, but you all should be careful. The Force is life itself. Manipulating it in these ways may be detrimental to all of your healths. I understand why, but I don’t think this is the best route.”

“That’s why I asked you here. We’re all terrible at noticing these things, but your insight into how it plays with the Force would be useful down the line, when we have more with it. As will Mira’s insight,” August gestured, “I feel that more insight into this from the…Force side is good, rather than just one.”

“Then where’s the light side representative?” Kontress scoffed.

“I’ve never really been a fan of the light side, but I have a few we could ask. We’ll burn that bridge when we get there,” he waved it off, “I think I’ve spent too much time in this group, it’s starting to look suspicious. We’ll touch base tomorrow.”

“Yes – oh, General, contact information,” the Queen pulled out a datapad from a pocket that had been well hidden by the layers of clothe in her skirt, “so I can reach you tomorrow.”

 

[KyloGlenn]

“I didn’t think she did either. I thought it would be Kylo, with how impulsive he is. But I suppose he would had to have figured out his feelings first.” Somehow, Paquin did first. “I don’t know how normal someone’s life could be to end up in the First Order, but probably.” Compared to the rest of them. She probably had normal relationships.

With Paquin gone, it freed up the bench across from them, and Ariel didn’t see a reason for them to squeeze onto the same side any longer. She slipped easily into the otherside, raising her hand to catch the attention of the bartender. When he acknowledged her, she folded her arms in front of her on the table, leaning into them She let out a long groan at Gnaeus’s question, letting her face fall into her arms.

“I don’t know,” Ariel lifted her head, flipping her hair out of her face. “I like to think we are. I hope we are. But I really don’t know.” She knew Gnaeus was asking about what they were doing with Kylo and Paquin, and her answer applied to that. But she couldn’t help but ask herself the same question on a broader scale.

She shook her head lightly. She needed to stop with the doubts and the questions. They’d get her in trouble if someone who wasn’t supposed to saw them in her head. Voicing even those two words to Kylo was dangerous. She knew she needed more to drink when she started to think too much. It wasn’t her job to think, and she didn’t want to.

Lately it seemed like she had to drink more to get the desired effect.

“How do you think this is gonna go? I mean, if Paquin and Kylo go for each other. Snoke is going to find out. I like to think he wouldn’t kill either of them, but…” Ariel had insisted to Kylo it might not be as badly received as he thought, but she didn’t know. “If it had been you and Paquin, I don’t think Snoke would care as much. But Kylo’s his favorite.” His prodigy.

Why was it so difficult to make oneself happy?

-

She watched him, watched the way his brows knitted together before he spoke. She noted the way he said he was wary of pursuing anything. Not that he didn’t want to, or was against it entirely. In fact, he said if it were another situation, there’d be no hesitation. She felt like her heart swelled. And there was that familiar warm feeling, even though Kylo wasn’t touching her.

It was foreign, but welcome. It felt like something she’d been missing. And she knew in that moment that it was something she wanted—needed—to hold onto.

“I don’t doubt your assessment. I don’t know what Snoke’s taught you all this time or fully what he is capable of doing. You know him better than I do.” It was almost a given that Snoke would find out. And that he wouldn’t like it. She knew she was the more likely candidate to be prosecuted. She was the one who kissed Kylo, not the other way around. But their development of feelings, attachment, that was mutual.

But Paquin found that her fear wasn’t of Snoke, not completely. “But I do know what I feel. I’m scared of Snoke. I don’t want you to get hurt, I don’t want to get hurt. But at the same time...maybe I’m stupid. It is stupid. But my want for you,” Paquin cautiously reached out, her hand finding Kylo’s and gently resting itself atop his folded hands. It held more meaning, for her, than her usual pats, even if the gesture was the same,’“For this. I feel it and it outweighs the fear I have for Snoke.”

Her thumb ran along a seam of his glove before she retracted her hand, “I’m new to this. I haven’t felt this way about someone before. Gnaeus, he said it’s worth it, even if it gets taken away. And I’m inclined to believe him.” Even if she was scared of it being taken away. Perhaps Gnaeus’s encouragement was leading her down a cursed path. But she couldn’t not try. “If this was something you wanted, too…” She trailed off, her eyes moving to focus on her hands that now anxiously fiddled with each other.

If it was something he wanted, too, she’d be willing to face what Snoke would throw at them.

-

Hux noted the surprise from the low amount he’d thrown out, but he did not go back on it. He thought it was a proficient enough number. It was an easy amount to require, as Queen Une confirmed that she should be able to get them there in a day or two. Count Drus mentioned he’d need more than three to power a field generator, which Hux figured as much. The amount he’d given wasn’t meant to be able to power anything.

“I trust you’ll be able to figure whether your field generators would even cooperate with the crystals with the amount given. Should they work as expected, we’ll speak more on distribution later,” Hux offered. Besides, if kohlen was what it was said to be, the less crystals floating around the better. Or rather, the less crystals in the hands of people he didn’t trust, the better.

The conversation of the crystals began to wrap up, as it was becoming a suspiciously long. What could be holding them in such a conversation other than they were plotting something? Hux knew what went through the minds of these people well enough.

Hux was intrigued by Kontress’ comments. He didn’t doubt that their tampering with the Force could affect them. He found it interesting, but he wasn’t concerned. If she or Mira could offer another way to go about these things, he’d be all ears. Or if the scavenger or Luke Skywalker, the lightside representatives he could think of. But for the moment, it’s what they had. And war came with a price to be paid, one he was willing to pay if it got him what he wanted.

His attention was brought to Queen Une as she asked for his contact information, noting the hidden pocket in the girl’s dress.That was crafty. The pocket was probably bigger than the pocket in his snug suit pants. “Ah, yes,” he rattled off his comm number for her to direct any messages to. “Thank you for bringing this forth, Queen Une. It’s potential could be important to the future of the galaxy.” Even if she didn’t bring it to him directly, she brought it—mostly—to the right people. They all could benefit from it.

“I look forward to hearing from you. We’ll all be in touch.” Hux offered a nod in goodbye. He yearned for a glass of wine. And he’d get one, surely the Tarkins had paid for a nice one. “Admiral,” he addressed Mira, inviting her to come along. Kontress’s point made him wonder what she thought of all this. And it wasn’t suspicious to talk to his own Admiral.

 

[Lucyfer]

Kylo figuring out his feelings seemed like a tall task. Especially given his upbringing. Gnaeus didn’t know as much about it as others, but it was clear he’d hardly had a normal childhood, let alone a normal time as an adult or teenager. Paquin at least struck him as having had something like normality before the First Order. Perhaps, even in the First Order. She wasn’t a brainwashed Stormtrooper, after all.

‘But we’re fighting for that kind of future.’ That was something Snoke had helped see the creation of, in some ways. He chose to fight on the side of the First Order.

And now they just had clones.

He knew Ariel’s answer included those thoughts – what they were doing with Snoke – even if it hadn’t been what he asked, or intended. His own thoughts dwelled there, time and again, and were drawn there too easily. The situation with Paquin and Kylo only threw up more questions about why they were fighting for Snoke.

He knew why. Initially. He wanted to take down the New Republic, but now he had to weigh the costs of that.

“Snoke wouldn’t have cared if it was me and Paquin. Or you and Paquin,” he imagined that might get a brief reaction. A moment of levity, “But Kylo and anyone…I don’t think Snoke will like this. I’m not sure what he’ll do.” He had to consider, “We’ve lost two knights recently.”

Two of the Old knights. One still lived – that, more than anything, might be what gave Snoke pause. One lived to defy him, actively, which could put the fear into him that Kylo would slip his grasp. “I…am not sure what he’ll do, but I think he’ll do something. I don’t think he’ll kill anyone, but…I don’t know,” he shook his head.

It wouldn’t be good, but he wasn’t sure what Snoke could do, would do, if it wasn’t ‘kill Paquin’. Somehow, he would complicate it, because he couldn’t risk losing Kylo, of all people.

~***~

Paquin was listening to him, to his concerns. Kylo returned that, and didn’t let an outburst so much as threaten to interrupt her. Not that he felt angry. He didn’t, in spite of the anger he’d felt when Ariel had been present and tried to argue with him. Perhaps it was good she’d shown up and let him vent some of that anger and frustration, misdirected as it was.

Not that he had anyone to be angry at other than himself.

And Snoke.

Snoke, who loomed over this moment, and this conversation, without being present. Paquin didn’t know what he was capable of – but understood the risk going so far as execution. He wouldn’t correct that. It was accurate. Snoke killed people for less, and yet, she was willing to brave that for what this could be.

The touch of her hand sent warmth through him.

It dared to embolden him, even if he wanted to squash that feeling the second it tried to rise up within him. ‘Gnaeus….’ Of course Gnaeus would claim it was worth it. Of the Knights, he was the only one to have known it. His lost love was what drove much of his actions, even if he didn’t talk of it any longer. Kylo knew what caused Gnaeus to hate the New Republic, what would keep him loyal to Snoke.

That sort of thing drove Gnaeus even to this day.

It was powerful, in its way, which was precisely why Snoke would worry for its development.

He already knew, without Snoke, this was a risk he’d take. If Paquin was willing to accept that risk, should he not try to mitigate it? Could he? The warmth still lingered even through the glove, and he moved both of his hands from his lap to close around the hands she’d pulled away, and to pull them to be more between them.

Only, one left quickly, and moved to rest under her chin, to tilt her head back up.

“I want this,” he answered the question that had trailed off, “I may know little else about this, but I know that I want to keep you in my life, and I want to keep you close. I’ll try to do what I can about Snoke.”

There had to be something, right?

He had to hope there was something, however foolish that hope may be. This couldn’t be bad. They were on the same side, himself and Paquin, there was no question of loyalty.

~***~

The group began to disperse, but not before Queen Une had the information to use to contact General Hux. “Thank you!” She sounded too cheerful for someone who was party to war and plotting. Likely, she didn’t understand the true danger of it. At least, that was what Mira assumed, but she would hardly call her on it.

She likely understood something, and stepping up to help required some bravery. She may not know what Snoke or the others were capable of, what they’d do to mere children, but she still knew war.

Hux’s own gratitude did give the Queen a moment’s pause, but she answered as diplomatically as ever, “You’re welcome, General,” she had anticipated dealing with August or Drus, more than him, but she was not upset with the shift. Hux had been more than fair in his request, and seemed like he would be in the future with trade negotiations. She returned a nod, and would turn back towards her advisors as the group dispersed.

Mira would turn with Hux’s call, and fall in step with him, not yet taking note of his direction given there was simply a need to move from the spot. She wouldn’t have been surprised if they went to rope Phasma into a conversation, or anyone else, really. “This night has taken an interesting turn.” She did note that much aloud.

Talking of the crystals and potential seemed like a poor idea, at least in specific terms. The less people knew, the better. She didn’t need word reaching Snoke. No one did. ‘I wonder how much August already knew.’ Or suspected. Most of these people were senators, but they were all invited by August, weren’t they? He must have invited some with intent beyond having them present.

Mira made a note that if the process of teaching August and Hux how to deal with mental assaults actually went forward, she was digging that information out of August’s head before he learned to repel her; very little felt like coincidence with him.

She took note that they’d moved towards the counter-turned-bar area, where people mostly took drinks and left, rather than mingle at the bar, and the one manning it was quick to turn their attention to the pair as they noticed them present. “How can I help you?” the mirialan inquired.

 

[KyloGlenn]

Ariel had to snort at the idea of her and Paquin. “Paquin’s not my type. She doesn’t have enough baggage for me,” that they knew of, anyway. She allowed for a moment of humor, amidst the strange situation at hand. Ariel truly didn’t think Kylo would ever find someone who would create this issue. She’d thought Mira, maybe even Kevan, would be his options if he were ever going to feel such things.

Ariel supposed the nature of it was unpredictable.

Snoke wouldn’t like it. That was the only thing they knew. It was the extremity of the punishment that was up in the air and it was the most nerve racking element. It wouldn’t be pleasant for either of those two, she was sure. It was just a matter of whether someone—Paquin—would end up dead or not.

“He can’t afford to lose any more of us, right?” Their numbers were dwindling and the number of Force-sensitives on the opposing side was rising. Luke, Mira, the scavenger girl. Kylo’s own mother, even. He could use all he could get, surely?

But Paquin, as much potential as all of them could envision for her, had very little to offer at the moment. Other than having perhaps too much influence over Kylo than Snoke would like. Snoke didn’t want anyone other than himself to have that ability. Attachment threatened him.

“I miss fucking around in sith tombs on random planets where none of you talked to me.” That wasn’t true. In part. She liked being around her fellow Knights, they were her family. But, “It was so much simpler than this.”

It was then that the waiter came around to get her a drink, giving Gnaeus and Ariel a second glance having seen him with another woman just moments ago. It wasn’t his job to judge, his supposed. “What can I get you?”

“A bottle of whiskey and a bat to the face.”

“How about a glass and a toothpick?”

Ariel snorted, “That’ll have to do, thanks.”

-

Paquin felt like she was overheating. She relished in the feeling of his hand holding hers, the other resting under her chin. It was a foreign feeling, this kind of touch. But a welcome one.

He wanted this. He wanted her. Something clicked in Paquin, and she realized she hadn’t felt wanted before. With her parents never seeming to want to be around her, with the Order so easily dismissing her and then trying to kill her. She had her friends from Rhinnal that she loved, and she knew they loved her too. But this was different.

It felt like belonging. Not just with Kylo—though, certainly him—but with Ariel and Gnaeus. The Knights of Ren.

And it only scared her more for what could happen. The elation she felt, along with the terror...she couldn’t help but think it was a horrible mix of feelings, and entirely unnatural.

He spoke of trying what he could about Snoke. She wasn’t sure what she could say or do herself to appease Snoke. Nothing, maybe. Except probably disappear. In the extreme sense. She wanted to be able to help. She sighed, squeezing his hand in hers. Fleetingly, she wished to feel his skin against hers. “I’m sorry to put you in this position. I didn’t realize…” She didn’t know what it would bring. All she realized was that she had feelings for Kylo.

She slid herself to the edge of her seat, closer to him. Her free hand reached out, brushing his hair away from his face, fingertips brushing against his cheek. The action was soothing to her. But her brows furrowed, and she let her hand settle on his shoulder. “I don’t want you to feel pressured.” She knew she’d been the forward one. “If you change your mind, if you find this isn’t worth it…” that whatever she could offer him wasn’t worth what Snoke did or would threaten to do. “I wouldn’t blame you. I’d understand.” She’d be hurt, but she’d understand.

She knew Kylo was capable of telling her no, if he wanted to. But she wanted him to know he could change his mind, that he could think about it more.

Though, once Snoke found out, she wasn’t sure how much going back there was.

-

Hux eased when they departed from the group, not having to be ‘on’ around Mira. Of course, he couldn’t completely relax or turn off General mode in the current environment. Not that he ever really did turn off General mode. But he didn’t have to mind his words or his mannerisms so much, in the presence of someone he trusted

Hux silently wondered at what point he’d broken his own rule he’d made long ago, before he was a general, of trusting no one. He hadn’t trusted Snoke, or Ren. He didn’t fully trust anyone working for him. Except for Phasma. He could count on one hand how many people he’d trusted in his life. Two of them were in the same building as him. The other one was long dead.

Hux hummed in agreement with her comment. “Indeed. And it’s not over yet.” Hux couldn’t imagine he’d remain much longer, but there were plenty of people to speak to, still. And plenty had more to offer. They wouldn’t be here if there wasn’t some use to them, Hux was sure.

Before Hux could get into the conversation he wanted to, the mirialan manning the makeshift bar greeted them. “Wine, red, please. Whatever you see first works,” if there was multiple options. He just wanted a glass of wine. “And another Arkanis coffee,” Hux knew the smell all too well. He grew up around it. His father made him bring him one every morning for years, when they lived on Arkanis. Said he couldn’t get one as good anywhere but Arkanis. Something about how the Arkanis-made whiskey was what made the drink compared to others.

He wondered if she knew what it was when she’d gotten it. He knew her not to be the drinking type. He’d probably take it if she didn’t want it.

“Sure thing.”

Hux turned his attention back to Mira as the mirialan pulled out a wine glass and a mug, moving off to fetch the drinks. He briefly scanned around the room for Phasma, figuring she’d be the next person he’d talk to, to inform her of the new situation with the crystals. His eyes settled back on the current blonde comrade. “Do you think this is something worth messing with? If it works, that is.” He thought of the cost of implementing such a thing. New ships, new weapons. And he wondered of Kontress’ words, about disturbing the Force.

The void stone felt obvious in his pocket then. That had to be harmful, he thought. If the Force was life itself, depriving an area of it, people of it, couldn’t be good, surely. He knew nothing of the Force. But, at the end of the day, if it’s what had to be done. It had to be endured.

 

[Lucyfer]

The emotions that raged through Paquin were passionate, impossible not to notice, as she took in his words. Kylo certainly couldn’t ignore the way the heat seemed to flush her before his eyes, or the look that seemed to cross her face before she moved in closer. His hand dropped down to the other, as he tried not to lean into the gentle caress too obviously.

The sensation was a pleasant one, threatening to flush him as well as send a chill. He didn’t have to try and hide it, and yet…he still felt as if he did. As if everything still had to be hidden, even just in the ship, in spite of how they were talking openly about their feelings, and acknowledging the unknown risk that remained when, not if, Snoke found out.

What she said now, offered him a way out – or to change his mind. She acknowledged the pressure, and a light laugh came to his lips as he looked down and shook his head, “You can’t take all of the blame,” he played his role. Somehow, something he’d done, made Paquin like him. If it had been forever one-sided, it wouldn’t be much of an issue.

But it wasn’t one sided.

He lifted his gaze back up to hers, “I think I would have to know a little bit more before I could decide if this wasn’t worth it, though,” he slid forward as well, knees knocking against Paquin’s, “I haven’t had much experience. And I might be a slow learner, but I think I should put in some time to learn,” he had liked the way her fingers had graced his cheek, so he copied it, and realized after a moment the leather wasn’t as desirable for him right then, either.

He brought his hand back, and lifted his other one from Paquin’s, only to take both gloves off. His hand returned to hers. Warm. A bit sweaty. He wasn’t sure if that was his fault, though. Gloves were warm by default. “Better.” He determined.

~***~

‘Arkanis coffee?’ Mira knew that must be what she’d been drinking all day, but it was still a surprise to hear it by that name. It made sense that Hux might know it, even if he didn’t seem to drink that terribly much, either. The thought did occur to her not to accept it, but it felt wrong not to when he was drinking.

That, and she didn’t feel all that drunk, yet.

As such, she didn’t comment on it right then, and focused on the question that was asked. “I believe that depends on how effectively it works, and the costs to make it work.” Mira answered. She hadn’t forgotten Kontress’s words, of course, “The use of kyber beyond lightsabers is already fairly novel but we have been messing with it without thought. I am not certain the use of other things will truly impact it to a great deal.”

Were not kyber and kohlen both natural crystals? They weren’t the synthetic things she’d used before. “We should remain aware, this is all fairly new in the scheme of things, but I think it could be worth it,” she wasn’t thinking much of the void stone in light of that, of the loss of connection to the Force. She found that feeling was still preferable, even if it was being used as a necessity, to keep Snoke from bothering any of them overmuch.

Snoke wasn’t the only bother.

“Here you are,” the cups were placed on the counter, interrupting, and Mira stepped forward to retrieve hers, rather than make the mistake of trying to float it over with the Force. “Thank you,” it was said to both the mirialan and Hux.

She took a sip first, and stepped away from the counter. “What are you concerned with?” Hux must have something on his mind he was asking if this would be worth it. Perhaps it was only Kontress’s warning. It couldn’t be faulted; this was all new, and new always implied risk.

She’d continue to go along with Hux if he sought to leave this area behind. She didn’t expect he’d linger near the bar, in truth.

 

[KyloGlenn]

Paquin liked his laugh, light as it was, how it settled on her ears. It was an all too rare sound, she felt. She did suppose there wasn’t much to laugh at in their little bubble. That wouldn’t hurt to change.

He claimed she couldn’t take all the blame, and that made a smile pull at the corners of her lips. She knew what he meant. He’d kissed her back. He wanted this just as much as she did. If he hadn’t, if he’d pushed her away, if she’d been the only one with these strange feelings, they wouldn’t be at risk with Snoke. But even with what he said, she wanted him to know there was nothing holding him to her and whatever their relationship was now.

Her mind felt like it shut off the moment his knees bumped hers, his hand caressing her cheek, leaving a tingling sensation in its wake. Where he’d held back, she was eager to lean into the touch, to let him know that she enjoyed it. Maybe she should have hidden it more. Been more wary. Maybe it would keep her out of trouble. But she didn’t, and she couldn’t help the huff of disappointment when his hands withdrew from her. But her disappointment was only temporary, and her heart skipped a beat as he seemed to have the same thought as her.

“Better,” she agreed as the warmth of him returned to her. She didn’t mind his sweaty hands a bit, not as her fingers explored his hand, the feeling of it in hers. Tracing the lines of his palms, “For the record, I think you’re learning fairly quickly. Adapting, at least. Though, I haven’t had much experience in this, either.” She wasn’t sure how much exposure she had compared to him, she didn’t know what he’d had before she was around, if anything. “I always have liked learning,” she offered, intertwining their fingers. His hands were bigger than hers, but they fit together comfortably.

It felt too nice for something that likely wouldn’t end well.

Still, she freed one hand and rested it on his face once again, “I think this is a good start. Talking, openly. Touching,” her voice softened to a mumble on her last word. Her thumb gently traced his scar before it found his lips, running her finger over his bottom lip, “Can I?” She asked this time, “Just...in case. Once we leave the ship...if we don’t get the chance to again.” She wanted to have hope, be positive. But it was hard when she knew Snoke wasn’t above hurting any of them for lesser crimes.

-

Mira was his main consultant for all things Force and kyber, so the General listened intently to what she had to say. If she thought the crystals could be worth it, supported by evidence that they worked as they were claimed to, he’d have to take it into consideration. Do the math and see what could be done, realistically.

Hux retrieved his glass with a thank you, and a nod in acknowledgement to Mira’s. He followed Mira in stepping away from the bar, but having no particular destination in mind. He’d have to gather Phasma, at some point, but he was content with leisurely wandering for the moment, and with his company. He was in no rush to talk to anymore senators or counts or queens. Or have any more people try and pet his suit. Did no one have any boundaries? Not that he could say much, after blowing up an entire system of planets. Heavy petting was a small price to play.

It was all apart of his job, he knew. A necessary evil. If he had it his way, he’d be capable of doing everything himself. But he wasn’t, not entirely.

She questioned what his concerns were, and he mentally unrolled the list. “Cost. It would be expensive, I imagine, to acquire the crystals alone. And then to incorporate them would be another sum. Of course, there’s ways to get around that. Introduce the technology at a pace. Move credits around.” The First Order was well off, he’d made sure of that when he assumed a position of power. And continued to try his best to keep it that way.

But, of course, that wasn’t all.

“I keep thinking on Kontress’ words. About the effect of messing with the Force. I figure I’m too far gone in altering it for it to matter.” His free hand brushed against the stone in his pocket. That. Who knows what he’d been involved in with Snoke that may have messed with him. “Not that it would stop me, if it were just me. There’s other people to consider.” Mira, Phasma. His officers. Stormtroopers. Hell, even Millicent. And not to mention who knows how many unconsenting planets and people whose living organisms and environments could be affected if they weaponized the kohlen and the void stone.

One could say casualties of war, but Hux wanted to minimize such things.

He wanted order, an end to the chaos that plagued the galaxy for decades. “Snoke and the Knights of Ren are the threats, and these crystals and the stone would provide a good edge over them. But in the grand scheme of things, it’s something to think about.” Hux shrugged a shoulder. “Of course, this is all hypothetical. The crystal, whatever Sister Kontress knows. We don’t even have it in our hands yet.” And after that is testing the thing. It was a process. And who knows, the length of time to produce it could be counterproductive.

Finally, Hux enjoyed a sip of his wine, the initial tang of it a welcome feeling. It had been some time since he’d had a chance to enjoy a nice glass of it, and this was a nice glass. He’d have to get the brand of it. ‘And add a bottle to the expensive wine collection I don’t drink.’

 

[Lucyfer]

Better.

The word hung in the air like a promise.

Better.

It was what Kylo sought in his life. What he sought for the galaxy. Everything he did, was to make things better, and now it applied so easily to a simple gesture of allowing his hand to feel Paquin’s. A closeness he’d denied himself for so long, and it was better. He knew, in the back of his mind, he should be wary of this, but hearing the word echoed back and feeling Paquin start to trace covered lines erased thoughts of that.

He smiled as their hands intertwined.

He liked learning. Sometimes.

He thought he might like this.

“Mmm,” he agreed wordlessly with their ‘good start’ all the same, though he felt a desire to flinch back as her finger moved of his scar. He managed to hold still, but his gaze did flicker to show his wariness at that. It wasn’t comfortable to be reminded of the scar, and the failure it implied. Thankfully, she did not linger there, but instead moved to trace his bottom lip.

His eyes went down to her own lips.

Their thoughts were on a similar track. As Paquin questioned if she could, he ignored her addition – her fear – that it might be the last time. He was more interested in the fact this could be the first time without surprise. He was still fairly certain that first time, while wonderful, would not be the best kiss of his life…even if it was one he thought on more than some others.

To be able to kiss her on his own terms, without the fear of interruption? “Yes,” he agreed, lifting his hand to move hers away from his lip, so it wouldn’t be in the way.

Wouldn’t wait for her to initiate it, though. He shifted himself forward on the seat and leaned down, taking the hand that had removed hers and lifting her chin up a bit before meeting her lips again, this time with a far more exploratory interest, rather than the rush and haste that had painted that first kiss.

~***~

Cost was a major factor that couldn’t be ignored. Even Mira knew that. It was possible such things could be found elsewhere, but cost, and time, were both matters. Using the crystals as lightsaber shields could be useful, if it worked. She imagined that not every soldier could be equipped with it, but a few, at least. Those who were likely targets of lightsabers.

If it went so far as being useful against all kyber weapons, that was where they would truly have to consider the cost, and if it was worth it to equip them on the large scale – on ships, or AT-ATs, or anything else.

The large scale was where it mattered.

“I am not sure if the crystal we’re looking at is capable of such an impact. I will know more when I am able to examine it myself, but there was no mention of anything that would make it…notably dire. Not quite like other things,” the void stone that wouldn’t be named here. That was notably dire from the stories, and from what was felt.

Or rather, what wasn’t felt. “In the long-term, there may be consequences to that sort of thing. The Force is life, or inspires life. I imagine things in the long-term proximity of something that hinders it,” and not just a crystal, not just kyber, “could be at risk.” It was not a pleasant thought to consider with Hux.

Of course, they planned to shift it between, so she could sleep, and so Hux could be safe in the day. Would that have an impact? Mira wasn’t so certain. “You are correct, though. We’ll know more in time,” whether it was worth the risks – both the void stone and the kohlen – or not. She would at least be able to say whether or not the kohlen was going to be such a grand hindrance to the Force, or just to kyber.

She hoped the latter.

She had the void stone for the Force, and for as long as Snoke lived, that was a risk she’d take. It wasn’t as if she was particularly fond of the Force to begin with, and she still preferred not feeling it.

Not feeling it, meant actually feeling, without the danger.

And noticing the way Hux seemed to enjoy the wine a bit. A small smile curved on her lips at that, “I never knew you enjoyed wine at all,” not that she imagined he drank much, but his expression wasn’t one of unfamiliarity. It was simple pleasure, a look she could easily drink in from afar. “Do you have a favorite?” It was off the subject, but she wanted to know.

She wanted to find it, one day.

 

[KyloGlenn]

Paquin was entirely too wrapped up in admiring the rarity that was a smile gracing Kylo’s face, in being able to take in every detail of him so close up, that she couldn’t miss the flicker of his gaze. The unease in his eyes when she traced his scar. She’d already moved on from it, but she didn’t fail to note to not do it again. The last thing she wanted to do was make him uncomfortable.

Such a simple gesture to her wasn’t so simple to him. She thought it had much to do with their different paths, how they were taught to view such things.

Briefly, she wondered if she could have done more for him, or if there was something she could do now. But those thoughts were quickly cast aside for the moment when he allowed what she’d asked. Shared in her wants, even.

She couldn’t help the giddy smile that pulled at her lips, and she shifted as close to him as she could without falling out of her seat. The hand he’d released in favor of tilting her chin up found itself curling around his wrist, eyes fluttering closed as his lips found hers. Her worries for the future, of what might happen to them all faded away, stored away for later. The only thing she could bring herself to focus on was him.

Paquin melted into the softness of his lips, the warmth that radiated from him. Unbeknownst to her, the Force reacted with her, with every feeling of contentment. Blowing through her hair like a gentle breeze, reaching out for Kylo with every feeling of wanting to be closer.

She too had more of an experimental interest this time around. Their first kiss had been rough, a need behind it. Feelings she wanted him to understand. While she adored it, and there were still feelings behind her kisses, they understood one another now. With no need to portray anything, she felt free to explore him and this intimacy. To find what he enjoyed just as much as she did.

They didn’t have all the time in the galaxy, and she didn’t know what would happen once they left the ship. But she elected to exist in the moment, savor every second of it, regardless of whether they’d have this chance again or not.

-

“I suppose there’s nothing to be done at the moment.” Rationally, their conversation itself didn’t put Hux at ease. It did not answer his question of the effects of these altering devices, not that such questions could be answered until they had it in their hands. Until they could test it, and even beyond that, some answers would not come immediately.

“I do appreciate your insight,” even what little she had on the current subject. “Now and in the future, I’m sure.” Yet, he did find ease in talking to Mira. Whether it was because of her or because she only confirmed that there was nothing they could be definitive on right then. Or a combination of both.

It was a stress for another time, nonetheless. Even as he continued to crunch numbers and possibilities in his head. Did he ever real stop, though?

He did the moment she inquired about his wine drinking.

An eyebrow quirked, a smile spreading at the sight of hers, despite his efforts in trying to suppress it. The question came out of the blue, but he didn’t mind it. Welcomed it. He looked down to his beverage, lightly swirling it around in his glass before he looked back to her. “I enjoy wine a lot, actually,” he mused. “I have a sizeable collection on the Finalizer.” He was glad he hadn’t moved it to Starkiller, that would have been a waste of good wine.

“I simply don’t have many chances to enjoy it as I like to.” The last time he could clearly remember sitting with a nice glass of wine was when Starkiller Base had nearly finished construction. “I do have a favorite. I usually prefer reds, but my favorite is an emerald wine from Raysho,” a planet that had been destroyed with the Hosnian system. He’d been gifted it in celebration when he became General, that was also the last time he had it. “Or was. I imagine whatever remaining bottles there are in the galaxy are worth a good credit or two,” he mused. Much like Alderaanian wine.

He took a sip of wine, restricting himself from simply downing it all and going to get more. “I’m disappointed I can’t take credit for introducing you to Arkanis coffee,” he pointed out, being from Arkanis and all. He was likely spending too much time with Mira, but he was not at all in a rush to return to anything else. “I didn’t think you’d be one for drinking,” that night or in general.

He supposed it was as good a time as any. No doubt things would be getting hectic. More so. “What made you order it?” Assuming she ordered it. And he assumed she would have for the fact that it had coffee in it, disregarding what Arkanis meant.

 

[Lucyfer]

The seats prevented the closeness that Kylo desired. Both he and Paquin were practically balanced on the edge, and while it would be easy to slide off of it, and retain some semblance of balance, the consideration of disrupting the moment didn’t allow for such a practical thought as that to be humored.

That it even occurred was only in thought of the space between them, as the kiss deepened, but they remained apart – and so it was not only his lips that sought to explore, but his hands. The coils of her hair were wrapped around his bare hand as the hand that had tilted her chin moved around her neck, and found the strands. His other hand sought to balance a bit, placing itself over her leg in that effort, fingers spreading across her thigh.

Before, of course, the inevitable tilt as the sensation of the Force struck him. Not his own – but hers. He was startled by its warping presence, not realizing his own had reached out as well. It wasn’t tousling his hair or any such thing, but it did try to work with his desires, to offer him a balance that was a lie.

He hadn’t realized he’d slipped off the chair until that jolt.

And then he broke the kiss in his half-fall forward, the hand on her leg taking the brunt of his weight for a moment as he made sure not to completely fall into Paquin when he hit his knees on the space between their chairs.

And laughed, at the absolute stupidity of himself, of the way the Force startled him, and the momentary care-freeness of the moment he wasn’t yet wanting to spoil.

~***~

Mira would not have taken Hux for a wine-drinker. In truth, she would have suspected harder liquor if he drank at all – the sophistication of wine was held by him, but it also implied relaxation, which he seemed to lack. Which they all, really, seemed to lack. That he had a collection the Finalizer caused her brows to raise in an expression of that surprise, before he elaborated on his favorite.

She made a note to find some of it – no matter how rare or difficult it was. Certainly, it would make a good gift for his own new position, wouldn’t it? Or a birthday, perhaps.

Even if she knew it was ‘just because’.

Even if she knew her desire to get him anything stemmed from that desire to see him happy – to see smiles like that one bloom on his face again. "I'll have to remember that."

Stars, Finn was going to kill her. Or tease her, relentlessly. She’d probably prefer death.

“I’m not,” Mira answered his statement of being one for drinking, “This was brought over to me – I didn’t order the first one.” Or the second one, for that matter, “I thought it would be rude to refuse in this situation, so I didn’t. I hardly knew what it was called,” for all she knew, it was just coffee with liquor, no special name or place of origin. “I do like it quite a bit more than most drinks I’ve had. I suppose I should stop strange drinks from strange places, though, but I don’t think Tarkin is out to kill me.” Yet. Others in the room might, though.

She might say it was her favorite, but she wasn’t certain of that. She didn’t really have that much experience, nor did she plan to. “Your home planet at least has good tastes in mixed drinks.”

 

[KyloGlenn]

Kylo’s hands left a warm tingling feeling wherever they went, even through the barrier of clothes. But it was his hand in her hair that sent a shiver down her spine, the feeling of someone’s hand in her hair almost an entirely new concept. She barely even ran her own hands through it, and she knew she’d be left with tangles, but it was entirely worth it to her. He could do it whenever he wanted, she’d let him.

Her hand trailed up his arm, settling on his bicep as her other hand found a place to rest against his neck. As the kiss deepened, the space between them became an annoyance to Paquin. But at the thought of getting closer, his lips broke from hers, a surprised gasp coming from her at the sudden pressure on her leg. Her hand tightened around his arm, as if that would stop him from falling.

There was a moment she was quiet, processing what happened. Laughter threatened to burst from her lips at the absurdity, but she tried to hold it back. Only to fail when his laughter filled her ears. “I’m sorry,” she tried to say between her fit of giggles. Sorry for laughing at him—no, with him—and for the fact that she wasn’t sure if his fall was her fault or his. Maybe a combination of both.

She inhaled to settle her laughter, and she found the tables had turned perfectly. With him sitting lower than her for once, her fingers ghosted over his jaw, finding their place under his chin to tilt his face upwards. She leaned to brush her nose against his, finding his lips once more. She kept them locked as she slid off her seat and sunk to her knees with him.

Her arms wound around his neck as she separated her lips from his, twirling the ends of his hair between her fingers. Her eyes found his, admiring the way the low lights gleamed in the darkness of them. “Are you okay?” Her voice was barely above a whisper, some emotion would threaten to make her voice waiver if she spoke any louder.

She could get used to these feelings. The ease she felt with him, the delightful warmth and content that she couldn’t even recall experiencing in the same capacity, that she wanted to be wrapped in at any given moment. She could get used to making a smile grace his face, hearing his distinct laughter. ‘I’m not letting him go.’ Her brain told her what she already knew. She didn’t care what she had to face for her thoughts to be real.

-

Hux wasn’t one for much luxury, not having been raised to care for such things. He had little use for things like clothes or knick knacks. He didn’t mind hard liquor, it was preferred by his father, too, but it hardly satisfied him. Wine was one thing he indulged in, every once in a while. Something with little sentimental value should it be destroyed, but still something to enjoy.

Much like he enjoyed the look of surprise on her face, his amusement only fueling the grin he was trying—and failing—to hold back. Force forbid anyone see him smiling. It could ruin his reputation for being entirely unapproachable.

He, generally, was unapproachable, but not to Mira. He was worried that fact was becoming obvious. He wasn’t worried it was obvious to her, but to everyone else.

He couldn’t help the incredulous look he gave her when she so casually mentioned accepting a random drink. Taking one from him, or a bartender, was different. She shouldn’t have taken a drink she hadn’t at least seen be made. Whether the intent was to kill her or something else. “No, Tarkin might not. Not yet,” Tarkin liked something about Mira, she fit with what he needed. They both did. “But Tarkin isn’t the only one here.” He could think of plenty of people who would want to kill her. Those who hate the First Order. Those who hate Force sensitives. Those who were quick to hate her. Who hated him.

Another sip.

“Yes, they do. Authentic ones are even better. You’ll have to try one, sometime.” Maybe he’d take her there, to his home planet. He was sure there’s be some reason or the other to go, no? “Arkanis has more to offer than just mixed cocktails, as well. It’s simply being represented poorly by a clown.” Maybe Arkanis had some bad taste.

Hux had unknowingly wandered, his feet bringing them back to the balcony he’d found Mira at when he’d arrived. Maybe he was unconsciously seeking out ‘fresh’ air, tired of breathing the same as everyone else in the apartment. No, he knew that wasn’t all. Not when his first thought was the sight of her, the glittering backdrop of Coruscant hardly comparing to her. When he could still feel her hand explore the velvet texture of his suit, something he was annoyed when others did, but almost missed the feeling of her. ‘Knock it off.’ A feeble attempt to discipline himself. He knew he shouldn’t have entertained such thoughts. He knew where they led.

A temporary distraction came in the familiar sound of pattering water. “Is that rain?” He questioned, stupidly, he thought. No, it couldn’t be. Coruscant didn’t have rain. Maybe a leak of some sort. A steady one, at that.

 

[Lucyfer]

Kylo wasn’t upset when Paquin joined in his laughter. He didn’t take offense, didn’t need her apology right then. He knew it was his own stupidity that brought him down, and the laughter died away easily, before his gaze was brought up to Paquin by her own touch. The grin that the laughter had brought turned sly, no doubt something his mother would have recognized as the last remnants of his father,

Paquin joined him on the floor as her lips met his, and his hand reached back up to search for a place, and settled on her back to help draw her closer to him. Into him. His other hand remained on her leg as she sunk to meet him, and the cocky smile remained on his lips. He was barely aware of it.

The situation was perhaps not one to be cocky about, but it was a victory, of sorts. An understanding of himself, of Paquin, and acceptance of feelings that had been plaguing him for a while. It felt nice. It felt like victory, and he reveled in that feeling as his hair was twisted around. “Yeah,” he was all right. He was probably more than all right, “It was just a fall.” His own voice kept to her level, low, though there was no threat of waver in it.

There was just no need to speak louder. His words were only for her. His attention, right then, was only for her.

He leaned back into the chair that he had formerly been sitting in, the fingers that had wrapped around her thigh tracing back down her leg, and off of it. Those on her back drew away, just as well, “You’re too far away, though,” as if he hadn’t just increased that distance, even by a bit. As if his fingers hadn't drawn back to himself and lessened contact.

He enjoyed this feeling.

He enjoyed the way the Force seemed to just…buzz with contentment, with warmth, without disrupting things, or threatening the moment in the least.

He didn’t want to consider again that it might have to leave. That he might have to sacrifice it for Snoke’s whims.

No – somehow he’d make Snoke see that this was for the best, and no threat to him. ‘We’re all on the same side.’ This couldn’t be wrong. This couldn’t be something Snoke would deny.

~***~

No, Tarkin was not the only one at the party. Mira was keenly aware of that, if only because she was aware of Hux’s presence. Still, she knew what he meant; the danger was present. And he probably didn’t want to hear about how many poisons she’d survived in Wild Space. It wouldn’t help the situation any, and so she just nodded, and listened to him speak of Arkanis instead.

And of Carise, the ‘clown’ representing it. ‘Why not you?’ He could step back into the Senate on his own rights then, represent Arkanis technically, and the First Order in reality. “I will,” she agreed with his sentiment on trying an authentic Arkanis Coffee. She could hardly imagine when she would, it wasn’t as if Arkanis ever seemed like it’d be on their agenda, but…

Well, it was a nice thought, wasn’t it?

As nice a thought as escaping out onto the balcony they’d drifted towards, putting the noise of the party behind them. ‘Careful, Mira.’ Her own thoughts warned her, the recent memory of a talk outside her ship coming to mind again. When she was certain there was more to Hux’s feelings for her, as well.

She should step back again.

Return to the party. To Finn, to August, to a stranger – any place but this dangerous spot, any place but the lie of isolation.

She may have done that, if Hux hadn’t asked something completely inane and broken her from the thoughts of the dangers of stepping out onto the balcony. “What?” Mira stepped passed the threshold and out into the open air, only to smile as she felt the first drops strike her face. She looked upwards, seeing that clouds were indeed above, “I suppose Coruscant must have been overdue for rain,” it did happen – for all the control the planet had over its weather, now and then it had to rain.

It was rare, but Mira could remember a few times from her childhood all the same. And she could enjoy it this time, without the Force threatening to pop it’s head in and annoy her.

Just as it wasn’t threatening to annoy her as she forgot she didn’t want to be out on the balcony for so many important reasons. It was more important to be in the rain. More important to take another sip of her warm drink, and lean into the railing, letting one hand wrap around it. “I’m sure Julia is going to be upset with me for staying out here and messing up the dress and hair in the rain, but this is a treat. Look,” she gestured out to one of the buildings, “The rain’s always cast an impressive halo around it,” the way the lights played on the water. “It hasn’t changed….” Strange, really, in a world like Coruscant that was all about change and growth – some things remained.

Like the Jedi temple in ruins

Like the play of the lights on a building beneath them, a halo of colors.