Ask Homebound

[Nykoria Tallis]

It was but a couple of days since their unforgettable pit-stop at Giaca. One could even call it fateful: the revelations that day forever changed the atmosphere aboard the small scout ship traversing the Unknown Regions. Reserved cooperation and occasional calm arguments made way for mutual care and respect. Estranged politeness and occasional silence—who needs to say "Hi" when both passengers are telepathic empaths?—were now replaced with warm welcomes and concerned questions.

Even the bickering about the Alyse's bed regime could now be solved easily. Nykoria would set the ship on autopilot, fetch a bottle of wine along with some snacks, and spend hours either sitting by the blonde's side or even lying next to her. Kori would tell about her own time at the police academy, or as the Padawan in the Jedi Order; of various adventures and misadventures; of missions with her old Master that took her across the galaxy. Alyse too shared a few stories from her past; but the Zeltron couldn't help but feel that there was more from her Sith days that the blonde was rightfully reluctant to share. Perhaps it was for the best; Alyse was a good listener, and also well-versed in lore and legends. So sometimes, instead of a story from her life, she would tell a fascinating tale that Nykoria hadn't even heard of before.

All the while, the ship was heading back for Bakura. Back home. It felt strange calling the place that, even though Nykoria had been living there for a while before the expedition. But back then, she had been confined by the false threat of the planet suffering the wrath of the Sith, should Kori escape. And now Alyse was taking the Zeltron back from the Unknown Regions as a cherished equal. Kori was excited to see the planet again in a new light; even if a part of her realized that the place itself wouldn't change. Yet it didn't quell the Zeltron's enthusiasm.

What did make the Zeltron a little hesitant was the looming prospect of contacting her friends in the Jedi Order and explaining her decision. Hi, uh... Yes, I'm not coming back. I met a Sith Lord, we found out that opposites attract, and we have much in common. And that the Jedi can't hope to protect the entire galaxy. So I'll just contain my activities to one place and settle down on... Actually, never mind. Just good luck with your war, and try to stay safe! But usually, it would take crossing paths with Alyse in the cockpit or in the living area, and a slender alabaster palm on the Zeltron's shoulder to wash away any lingering doubts.

So, things were going well. So well in fact, that one "morning"—if the ship even had those—the Zeltron took to cooking, as opposed to using ration packs. Although it had never been Kori's forte, she would be found by the oven, with something being stewed inside. The something gave off the smell of meat and apparently of Alyse's prized wine—the evidence being an open bottle standing on the small kitchen table. Occasionally, the something would sizzle and guggle as well. That's when the Zeltron—standing by the table and cutting up some vegetables that didn't need to be cooked—would lean to the oven's window and smell whatever was brewing inside. Once she was at least semi-confident that nothing was burning, she'd get back to cutting.... Until another sizzle would draw her attention, and the cycle would repeat again.

@Topher

 

[Alyse Ti'Varnus]

Looking up from her book the ashen blonde pursed her lips in thought as she regarded the improvised crutches. A light clicking of her tongue lingered for a moment, as she weighed up on whether she would venture through the ship using them or not. With s grunt, Alyse slid her legs over the side of her bed and gingerly pushed herself onto her feet. Slowly and carefully the human made her way towards the threshold of her room, electing to leave the sticks behind - after all she had the bulkheads to reach out and prop herself up with if she needed. But then again she would seek to wean herself off from using the sticks.

Stepping into the communal living space, an affectionate smile curled in her lips as she took in the sight of the Zeltron standing at the galley, attentively chopping away at some vegetables, and periodically checking a container within the oven unit. Walking up to Kori's side, reaching a hand out for her shoulder, just in case she lost her footing. But the closer she got the lower her hand moved, before her fingers wrapped around the contours of her companion's waist. "Smells good" Alyse spoke out as she rested against Kori's side, her eyes looking over the kitchen surfaces, taking in the various stages of food preparation that was underway. Before a light smirk curled on her lips as her gaze clocked one of her bottles of fine wine. "Someone couldn't wait until the table was set" the ashen blonde teased before narrowing her gaze and looking over the kitchen surfaces, a raised eyebrow arching as she noticed the lack of a glass. Putting two and two together, the human turned her attention to the oven and taking a few deep sniffs for a moment. "Oh Kori" Alyse sighed, as she rested her head against the Zeltron's shoulder, before a light chuckle passed her lips - finding that there was no sense in getting worked up over the use of a fine wine for cooking with, especially when her companion was going to, so much effort to begin with. "Its ok don't worry about it, but when we get home, remind me to take you to the vineyards" Alyse teased with a light nudge before stepping over to one of the counter top sides, and leaning against it.

Keeping off to the side so not to get in Koris way, but also more that she could face her directly. The ashen blonde pursed her lips in thought as she watched the Zeltron dice up some herbs, a pensive expression crossing her features as she watched, reflecting back on the earlier thoughts that was resonating from the Jedi's mind. "Still no joy in figuring out what you're wanting to say?" Alyse inquired as she cocked her head to the side slightly, before reaching a hand over to pick up one of the chopped vegetable sticks. "What does your latest draft sound like?" she added before taking a bite off of the top of the vegetable stick.

 

[Nykoria Tallis]

With her heightened senses, both physical and not, Nykoria knew that Alyse was on her way. But the advance knowledge didn't make the Zeltron's smile any less brighter when the blonde rested against Kori's side and complimented her cooking. Kori accepted the compliment with a short and warm affirmative hum. Even the teasing didn't seem to ruin the mood: the joke evoked a chuckle, and even the "Oh Kori" sounded less like "I'm disappointed in you", and more like "Not what I would've done, but still cute". A sign of appreciation. After all, the blonde wouldn't have rested her head against Kori's shoulder or chuckled if it had been otherwise. All that the Zeltron replied—apart from her spirits getting higher—was a quiet and warm "I'll hold you to that" at the mention of visiting the vineyards back on Ba... Back home.

Throughout it all, Kori remained focused on chopping and seasoning, only occasionally turning her face to Alyse. Her eyes did trail the stolen vegetable stick all the way from the chopping board to the alabaster palm and to the blonde's lips, but Nykoria didn't seem to have anything against that. The question though... It did get Kori thinking and quelled her mood a little. What did her latest draft sound like? "It sounds like me going back on my duties and giving the Jedi Order the shaft because of my fears and selfish desires," she replied with some light sarcasm to it, the mood not entirely ruined yet. Then she shrugged and added with some more seriousness and confidence: "I'll... find the right words... when the time comes."

"Besides... Today isn't supposed to be about worrying, doubts, and fears." Turning to Alyse and forgetting about the cookery for a while, the Zeltron tilted her head. It didn't take the bond between them, the Force, or even a detective to anticipate the next question, so Nykoria continued. "It's the Founding today... Or I think it's today. The anniversary of the first lesson taught by the Grandmaster of the reborn Jedi Order." She explained as the smile returned to her face somewhat, albeit distant. "Contrary to what you might expect, modern Jedi celebrate it with beer, barbecues, burgers, fireworks, and whatnot. I always loved that day of the year. Made me feel as if I... belong."

For a moment, the Zeltron paused her speech. Her gaze shifted to the half-empty bottle of wine, which she had spent on the cookery sizzling inside the oven now. "I know that to you, it's a day like any other, but..." Kori shrugged again, clearly not sure how to end that thought: "I guess I just thought this day needed something nice."

@Topher

 

[Alyse Ti'Varnus]

Nodding as her companion spoke of her current progress with how she wanted to speak and explain things to her friends within the Jedi, the ashen blonde pursed her lips for a moment sensing that the Zeltron was looking to speed past that topic for the time being, a slight sigh escaping her lips as she nodded once more before taking a bite from the pilfered vegetable stick with a satisfying crunch. "Well if and when you feel it's time, you can always run it past me" Alyse offered, once she had finished chewing, casting an warm smile.

The smile lingered as, Kori so cleanly changed the subject, setting her knife down then declaring that the day wasn't about fears and worries. Before proceeding to explain why, before the ashen blonde could let out an inquisitive oh?, quietly Alyse listened, keeping a warm expression on her features, despite the inner Sith in her questioning as to how or why the Jedi would celebrate a day of possible reverence and significance as if they were celebrating Liberation Day.

Fortunately that was quickly muted in favour for her companion, after all the day so clearly meant more to Kori than just beers burgers and bangers, a curious eyebrow arching up at the mention that she felt like she belonged. It seemed like a bit of an odd thing to say, especially since the Zeltron was at odds about whether she should take that leap into a new life with the Governor - perhaps it was nothing, but the ashen blonde figured to keep a mental note on it for the time being.

Raising her eyebrows as Kori commented on that her belief that this day to Alyse was little different to any other, and that she wanted the day to mean something nice. Looking into the Zeltron's eyes, Alyse beckoned her closer to where she was leaning against the counter. Her hand reaching up to cup the base of Kori's chin, before leaning over to kiss her purple hued lips. "Everyday knowing that you are here with me is special" Alyse whispered after their lips parted, a warm smile spreading on her features. "But for a day that is important to you?" She continued with a slight chuckle and a grin crossing her features "It will be a pleasure to share it with you"

 

[Nykoria Tallis]

Although Kori caught on to some lingering doubts and hints of disagreement on the blonde's behalf, it didn't change the overall feel aboard the ship and between the two. If the Jedi Master were asked to summarize it, it would be...

Emotion and peace.​

Forged through a similar mindset, the adventures together, and the trust that was established days ago on Giaca. So when Alyse beckoned, the Zeltron obliged. Tilting her head just slightly, leaning down a little to make it easier for the shorter blonde to reach her, and supporting her waist with one arm. That support would linger after the kiss. The blonde's further comment painted Kori's cheeks were a deeper shade of purple; for a while, and all she could reply with was a quiet and warm "Aww, shucks!"

Passion and serenity.​

After a short pause, and with only a little more seriousness, Kori would continue: "You know it's probably just a passing 'honeymoon' phase, right?" After all, if every day together was special, then the more "special" days there were, the less special they would become. Yet the fleeting nature of what was happening didn't detract from Kori's confidence. "But yeah, if I knew I could've gone your route with 'something nice', I wouldn't have bothered with..."

THE STEW!!!​

In a moment, the Zeltron let go of the blonde's waist and rushed towards the oven. As Kori opened it, the smells and vapors of roasted meat and wine filled the room... Soon followed by a loud expletive from Kori's mouth; apparently, in the heat of the moment, the Zeltron forgot how hot the container was.

Pressing the burned finger against her tongue and lips, Kori perked up. One flick of the free wrist, and the grill with the container on top rolled out from the oven. A gesture of the palm, and the container opened, filling the room with the smells of a half-cooked "stew a la Korí in wine a la Alysé". Another circular motion, and the vegetable sticks flew around Alyse and into the container, which then closed on its own and moved back into the oven, with it closing itself.

Letting out a sigh of relief, the Zelton turned around and leaned on the table with her free hand. The other hand remained next to her mouth for a while. Only after a few moments of concentration, and the pain numbing down a little, could Kori let go of the burned finger. "Damn, almost missed the timing," she looked at Alyse with an apologetic smile.

Chaos and harmony?​

@Topher

 

[Alyse Ti'Varnus]

Shooting the Zeltron an inquisitive look, as she commented on them being in a passing 'honeymoon' phase, The Ashen blonde, cocked her head to the sight as she pursed her lips for a moment, her head shaking slightly from side to side. "You see its comments like that, which gives the Jedi a reputation for being mood killers" Alyse spoke, as a slight teasing grin curled on the edge of her lips. The light expression shifted into one of mixed surprise and concern as the Zeltron suddenly pulled away from the ashen blonde and making a swift move for the oven unit. Her brow furrowing as she watched the Zeltron suddenly reel her finger back and cussing aloud as she burnt herself, slight look of concern on her features as she watched Kori suck on her finger whilst electing to use the Force to manoeuvre and manipulate the food to and from the oven.

Seeing that her companion had things in a semblance of control and order, Alyse smiled lightly in response to the apologetic admission of missing the timing. "Its ok" she offered with a warm tone, before leaning over the counter a little to retrieve the bottle of wine. "I'll stop distracting you and set the table" She added once she had the bottle in her hands, before picking up a pair of glasses.

Carefully the ashen blonde made her way towards the pull down table unit, which fortunately had already been lowered, before setting the bottle and the glasses down. Whilst the Zeltron was busy with the last of the cooking, Alyse proceeded to shuffle back and forth between the various store cupboards and the table, retrieving some simple table linens, cutlery and a few half burnt candles. Not exactly the full lavish spread that would be expected for fine dining, or a special meal, however given the remote and isolated situation they were in, and Alyses' predilection for dining in restaurants whilst off world and lack of need to entertain aboard her personal ship - it was the best that she could improvise, given the limitations.

 

[Nykoria Tallis]

Alyse's remark, even if said jokingly, might have contributed to Kori's distraction. Combined with a close call with the cookery, it was another soft nudge at the Jedi Master's confidence. "It's ok," the Zeltron mirrored Alyse's reply. "I love your company." Silence settled in while Alyse set the table, and Kori watched the cooking in its final stages. Perhaps the vegetables should've been put in sooner. But even in that state, they'd take in the aroma and a little bit of taste, while providing their own.

By the time Alyse would set the table, Nykoria would already levitate the container out of the cooking unit and rest it onto the kitchen table. "Lo and behold, something to revive the mood!" the Zeltron announced with a rather self-confident smirk. Although she hadn't tasted it yet, the lack of burnt aroma meant that it had to be at ok at least. Right?

With that out of the way, the Zeltron would look at her own arm and the singed finger. Shaking her head with a wry expression, Kori closed her eyes for a moment, focusing the Light within her towards the burn. The wry expression grew less and less rigid, until it melted into a faint smile. Then Kori opened her eyes. "Sorry about the delay."

@Topher

 

[Alyse Ti'Varnus]

Looking up as Kori announced the arrival of their meal, the ashen blonde offered a light smile and a nod in acknowledgment before stepping out of the way to give the Zeltron clear access to the table. Once clear the ashen blonde proceeded to decant the wine into each of thier respective glasses, before easing herself down onto her seat whilst the Zeltron radiated with the energies of the lightside. A familiarity resonating with the Force giving indication that Kori was heeling her burn, a light smile crossed her features as she shrugged, leaving Kori to her own devices before turning in her seat to dim the lighting controls a little, and then bringing the candles to life with a sweeping wave of her hand.

Once Kori had finished treating her burn, and had the opportunity to sit herself down on the seat. "Well" Alyse spoke breaking the silence s little. "Happy Founding" she added as she raised a glass to meet the brim of the Zeltron's own with a light clink. Her features contorting into a pensive expression as she cocked her head to the side slightly. "that was the correct way of saying it right?" she inquired, with a questioning glance. Whilst perhaps it was not on the grand scale of things an important detail to get wrong and one that was easily overlooked, given the Jedi specific nature of the celebration. It was something that the ashen blonde knew was important to Kori, and thus something that she wanted to get right, already the mental notes were being made put in place for future retention.

Sitting quietly, Alyse unfolded one of the hastily folded napkins and laid it over her lap, whilst the Zeltron portioned out and plated up their meal. A light smile crossing her features as Kori finished serving their meal, catching sight of a slight look of expectation from the Zeltron, seemingly waiting for Alyse to take the first test. Picking up the cutlery, the ashen blonde cut up a small mouthful of the stewed meat, and raised it up to her lips. As she chewed over the food, savouring and responding to the reactions on her pallet.

Once her mouth was clear, a light grin crossed her features as she let the flavour linger for a moment before reaching for her wine. "I don't know why you speak ill of your cooking" Alyse chuckled before taking a sip from the crimson fluid. "The meal is delicious" she added complimenting the chef with a little nudge of her glass in Kori's direction.

 

[Nykoria Tallis]

The Zeltron opened her eyes to a darker room, and the candles flicking to life after a wave of Alyse's hand. Knowing how to achieve that with the Force didn't make the display any less impressive. The smile on Kori's face was no longer faint as she took her place. In fact, it only grew brighter as Alyse toasted to happy Founding. The guess was correct, but it didn't matter; either way, Kori would have replied with a warm and confident "Yes, that was." No protocol and formality would ruin this.

Alyse preparing to take the first bite seemed like an eternity. A napkin? Kori had always been more down-to-earth and less privileged to dine in such a manner. Yet she waited patiently, doing her best to conceal the tingling anticipation. But finally the first piece of the meal reached the destination. One couldn't see it, but the Zeltron sat rigid in anticipation, trying to catch every change of Alyse's expression.

Well... She didn't spit it out outright. No contorted expression that Lani used to give me either. In fact, the Zeltron couldn't even catch a shade of revulsion in the air. Did it mean that... Wait, did she actually say "delicious"? Some disbelief slipped from Kori's mind onto her expression, as she looked at the blonde, at the meal, and then at the blonde again. Reaching for a fork, she tasted the stew herself. To the Zeltron's surprise, it was actually good.

"Well..." the Zeltron replied a few moments after the wedge of the glass, still lost for words. "I guess I just had a stroke of inspiration in the last few days," the smile grew a little more confident, as she found a seemingly-neat way to tie in the recent development between the two on Giaca. "So, is it worth your wine?" she asked with a hopeful expression, completely oblivious to what pun she had just concocted. Only a few moments after saying that did the Zeltron scoff in amusement. Then she raised her glass in response to Alyse's.

A little bit later, the Zeltron would add, mainly to initiate some sort of small-talk and return the compliments: "Totally love the ambient, by the way. It's as if you were also preparing something. All that's missing is some music, and it'd be the best Founding ever."

@Topher

 

[Alyse Ti'Varnus]

Nodding in response to Kori's words, a light smile curled on Alyse's lips as she mused on the question on whether the meal was worth her wine, her eyes rolling upwards as she stretched out her response. "I'll make an exception on this occasion" she teased, before pursing her lips in thought for a moment whilst she loaded her fork with another portion of her meal. "But it does pair very well with the meat" she added, with a genuine sincerity this time rather than the light teasing., before raising her fork to her mouth and biting down on her next portion of the meal.

Her eyes remained fixed on the Zeltron as they continued with their meal, though as Kori commented on the ambience that Alyse had created with the dimmed down lights and lit candles. Initially the comment was met with a light shake of her head. "It felt like it would compliment the meal" Alyse reasoned after a few moments as she finished chewing over her portion of the meal. "A few homely touches to make solo cross region travel a little more comfortable" she added with a slight shrug, before looking off to the side, pursing her lips in thought over the mention of music. "Music might be a stretch" Alyse resumed before trailing off with a slight pause. "Though you probably would have noticed that by now" she added with a slight grin, alluding to the almost unseen, correction unheard fact that the ashen haired blonde whenever she was alone with her thoughts or books, was accompanied by silence.

After taking in another mouthful of the meal the ashen blonde raised her gaze up from her plate to meet Kori's. Her head tilting to the side slightly as she cast a curious glance towards her companion. "Though it is curious" Alyse spoke out after a brief pause, only to then pause for a moment as she took another Sip of her wine. "For a day that marks the first teachings of a Reborn Order. Why celebrate it with a wild bacchanal? Would it not be a day of reflection and meditation?" she queried, her tone conveying an air of sincere interest and curiosity, rather than an attempt to throw shade on the Jedi order.

 

[Nykoria Tallis]

Kori just chuckled soundlessly and rolled her eyes at Alyse's teasing. All the proof she needed was the blonde keeping at it with the meal. And so did the Zeltron. As it turned out, the wine and the meat were indeed a perfect fit. Alas, the music didn't seem like an option. At first, Alyse's reply sounded like a mystery. Only when the Zeltron picked up the blonde's unspoken attitude towards music in a homey environment, did she get a hint as to why it was the case.

In fact, it also shed light on another mystery: why the ship had felt so unwelcoming on the way to the Unknown Regions. It was simply too quiet. The problem became less apparent when Kori and Alyse hit it off, and talking became more frequent. Realizing that, the Zeltron shrugged: "Yeah, sure. Though I would've liked a chance to dance. Used to go to that club on Coruscant, Outlander in Urscru District. Fun times." It was perhaps an unexpected twist that a Jedi Master could enjoy a seedy place like that. But it tied into Alyse's next question, somewhat.

And Kori took the question just as Alyse wanted to—without any prejudice. "As you might have noticed, reflection and meditation are what the Jedi already do a lot of," the Zeltron remarked with a smirk, once again using Alyse's own words, and about to tie them into something that was discussed before. "How would it be special if we did the same thing that day as on any other days?" Although the Zeltron did reply jokingly, there was a degree of seriousness to it. Still, Kori decided to offer more than what could be seen as a simple joke.

"It's also a tradition started by Padawans, the new members and rookiees of the Jedi Order. You know, the people who're less like 'stereotypical Jedi', and more like 'ordinary people'... Who have discovered that there is more to them than they thought," Nykoria paused to take another bite. "So, the less spiritual and introspective type of Jedi."

As the Zeltron chewed through her piece, she continued with a less serious remark: "I actually noticed that there are two main types of Jedi out there. One type wear the robes, and the other type wear the stuff like leather jackets. With accompanying attitudes, if it makes any sense. Only a few skirt on the verge between these types."

@Topher

 

[Alyse Ti'Varnus]

Setting her fork down on the plate for the moment the ashen blonde, quietly listened to Kori's explanation of the circumstances and cause for the Jedi to treat this Founding day as a party rather than one of introspection. Her slender fingers wrapping around the stem of her glass, lingering for a minute before raising the beverage to her lips. An attentive expression remaining in Alyse's features as Kori explained the differences that was emerging between the ranks of the Jedi. A particularly fascinating nugget of information indeed! But yet it also sounded like an ironic one, for an order that preaches unity, it would appear that even in their own ranks there was deviations as to how the Jedi should conduct themselves.

One side of the order, being the more traditional sort, wearing the customary robes, spiritually aware and introspective. And on the other the 'rookies' as Kori had called them, wore attire that was reflective of thier previous life, carried the viewpoints of the ordinary man and perhaps more crucially in the ashen blondes eyes would be more open minded than their traditional kin. A light murmur passed Alyses lips as she took another sip from her wine before placing the glass back down on the table.

"And I would wager that of these two types of Jedi" Alyse spoke out, whilst she loaded her fork up once again. "You clearly were one of the Rookies! Since you are one of the most grounded, free thinking and down to earth of the Jedi I have encountered" she continued with a light tone, no intent to disparage or belittle her companion, but rather to give an insight as to how the Ashen blonde would define Kori's personality and character. Although that was not to say, a wry grin formed on her features as she learnt forwards a little. "Bet that you were also one of the trouble makers as well, with your leather swoop biker jacket going against the grain of the order" she added with a coy wink before bringing the fork to her mouth once again.

Leaning back in her seat, Alyse reached to pick up her glass again, smiling warmly at the Zeltron. Swirling the crimson fluid in her glass for a moment in thought before taking a sip. "Though perhaps this may be in bad taste, given today" Alyse spoke as she looked up from her glass. "But in about a week or so after we return Home, Bakura does celebrate the fall of the Crimson Menace" she explained, refering back to the nickname given to the Ancient 'Jedi' that terrorised the planet. "If you are still in a dancing mood, then perhaps you would like to accompany me to the charity ball maybe?"

 

[Nykoria Tallis]

Nykoria rolled her eyes a little as Alyse called her a "rookie". Perhaps it was an attempt at teasing, or Kori had explained it wrong. "Oh, I was a rookiee," she nodded her head in admission. "How else would I have been captured by some lowlife pirates?" the Zeltron questioned, with some non-hostile irony. "Seriously though, the types I mentioned don't depend on 'rookie' or 'non-rookie' It's just a style choice, that often coincides with the attitude. In the end, we're all just people."

The remark about Kori's attitude was spot-on though; even going against the grain of the Jedi Order, to some extent. But it also provided an opportunity for some sweet retaliation. "Nailed it. So, you meet a lot of Jedi, huh?" the Zeltron replied teasingly, leaning forward as well: "Let me guess: they're all the troublemaker-and-leather-jacket types." Satisfied with the comeback, the Zeltron took a sip from her own glass.

The mention of the Crimson Menace rang a bell. It was a story that Alyse had brought up the day Kori woke up on Bakura. Something about a Jedi of old, who stirred up a lot of trouble. A few months before, Kori would've been concerned; but this time, she didn't feel any detraction to the mood. There were bad Jedi, just as they were good Sith; that, and the story was so old that bygones were bygones; to Nykoria at least.

The prospect of going to a charity ball, however, did affect Kori's mood. Very enticing, if only a little scary. "I would love to. If the company of a leather-jacket-wearing-Jedi wouldn't compromise your position? Or someone who's done energetic dancing at nightclubs way more often than the... solemn stuff they do at the balls." In fact, the ratio was inclining towards "infinity" for night clubs and toward "zero" for more high-profile events. Leaning backwards in her seat, Kori took another sip from the glass, almost done with her meal.

@Topher

 

[Alyse Ti'Varnus]

As Kori teased Alyse about meeting slot of other Jedi, the ashen blonde reacted by leaning forwards herself, elbows touching on the table, hands placed atop of each other, propping her head up. Her eyebrows raising briefly at the mention that the Jedi she had encountered were the leather wearing trouble makers. A coy smirk wrapping on her lips for a moment as she stared down the Zeltron. "If only" she commented initially, before giving a quick wink "perhaps if the Jedi I had encountered prior compared even remotely close to you, then my opinion of the Order might have softened" she added with a quick arching if her eyebrows .

Her grin softened into a smile, before then wrapping into a chuckle as the Zeltron commented, rather disparagingly about whether she would fit in, least compromise the Governor's standing attending the ball with the rebellious leather jacketed Jedi on her arms. "Perhaps the leather jacket might not be the best choice of attire" Alyse commented dryly with a light chortle, as her eyes panned over the Zeltron's features then over the parts of her frame that was visible in their seated state, a slight trace of a smirk curling on her lips "though it's typically a masquerade. it's not as traditional, stuffy and old hat as you would expect" she added as she lent back in her seat. Picking up her glass of wine, teasing the last of the crimson fluid for a moment before sipping the remainder. "A nice mask, an elegant yet slinky dress is all that is needed, the dancing is slow at first, but once everyone has mingled... And had a few drinks, it will get nightclub lively" Alyse concluded, before offering a reassuring smile as she set her glass down.

Her eyes lingering over Kori for a moment, before looking over to the kitchen area. Reaching a hand out for the Zeltron's. "The meal was lovely, thank you" she spoke as she gave Koris hand a gentle squeeze. Before she started to ease herself off from her seat, much like she had done almost immediately after eating, during the previous times the pair had dined together following their encounter with the abomination. The Ashen blonde moved over to the kitchen area, dispensing herself a couple of Kolto tablets then pouring herself a glass of water to help swallow and wash the tablets down. A routine that with her improved mobility and recovery had became less cumbersome and clumsy, and more practiced and efficient.

 

[Nykoria Tallis]

An exchange of pleasantries about the Jedi Order and its representation went a long way in building up Nykoria's mood. Even more so as the blonde teased slinky dresses and dancing. The Zeltron could almost feel the amber eyes going over her and evaluating how she'd look in a dress. It didn't take any words for Kori to understand that the conclusion was satisfactory. "Well, now you've just given me something to look forward to," the Zeltron chuckled. "Though it might take me more than a few drinks," she added, alluding to her species' tolerance for alcohol. "And the dress... Can't help but feel that at this rate I'm going to bankrupt you some day."

Or at least owe you more than I could ever hope to repay.​

Despite that the remark sounded like a joke, there was a grain of truth to it: the Governor had already funded Kori's living and clothes on Bakura; not to mention the materials for the lightsaber that lied on the workbench and was awaiting some finishing touches. Now it was also a ball—even if it would've happened anyway—and the dress for that ball. At that rate, Alyse could steadily outpace all that the Jedi Order had provided Nykoria with over a decade. The feeling of depending on someone that way was... weird. Even more so when Kori remembered how Alyse had promised her unconditional financial help back on Giaca.

"Thank you for sharing it with me. And for the company," the Zeltron replied as their palms touched after the meal. Seeing Alyse rise from her seat and go for her daily pill ritual—much easier than before, but still with some effort—the Zeltron stood up as well.

"There is... Another thing I've been thinking of..." she commented, unsure how exactly to bring it up, as the Zeltron followed the blonde towards the kitchen area. "I've been thinking back to that healing on Ahch-To, and after... And I've been studying some techniques from the healing holocron." She rested her elbow on the kitchen table, turning towards the blonde taking her pills.

"There might be a way for me to help you heal... Without those unpleasant side effects." For a moment, Nykoria's gaze went back towards the table. "It... might let you feel the Light as I do, at least for a while." Kori added, unsure whether that's something Alyse would even want. "All you have to do is take my hand, close your eyes, and open yourself to the Force," the Zeltron extended her free open palm.

Spoiler: If accepted

Should Alyse take the purple palm, she would feel nothing for a few moments... Then a familiar stinging of the Light, but much duller and distant this time. In a couple of moments, even that feeling would make way to an unusual ease in her palm, and the soft sense of a breeze going through her fingers.

"Just let it wash over you, if you want," the Zeltron would add, her voice much less relaxed and betraying a degree of focus and concentration.

@Topher

 

[Alyse Ti'Varnus]

A light smile crossed the ashen haired woman's features at the Zeltron's mention of her potential bankrupting of the Governor's funding, through all the aid and support that she was providing and offering to Kori. "Without the risk of being impolite, talking about money" Alyse spoke after a brief silence, before placing a reassuring hand on the Zeltron's shoulder for a moment as she manoeuvred about the kitchen area, before pouring the excess water down the sink and setting the glass aside.

"There is little risk of that happening" she offered with a reassuring smile, before releasing her hand from Kori's shoulder and moving to pick up a hand towel to wipe over the glass. Whilst it was considerate of the Zeltron to be conscious of her potential drain on Alyse's resources, there was the element that the Governor wouldn't have offered it had she not the means to back said offers - being descended from a family name that ran within the political class for many a generation also meant that there was a degree of a sizable wealth that lay at her disposal.

Alyse's eyebrow did then arch at the mention of there being something else, given the slight hesitance in bringing up the subject it did give raise to wondering just what else the Zeltron had planned for this meal. Although the mention of Kori's attempt to heal Alyse on Ahch-to gave a clear hint as to where the topic of conversation was headed. The ashen blondes lips pursed slightly as Kori explained that she had been studying the techniques indicated within the Holocron that she had acquired, and had possibly found a way that would allow for Alyse's injuries to be healed, without the unpleasant stinging sensation that she had felt as the Darkside within her body resisted and reacted to the light side that was being focused into her.

A palpable air of apprehension lingered over the Ashen haired Sith Lord at the prospect of repeating the same sensations, but in the scheme of things and on reflection of what she had endured and experienced in the wake of their run in with the abomination. The pain of having her life energies forcefully torn from her essence, would make the uncomfortable sting of her Darkside infused essence reacting to the touch of the light side pale in comparison.

That and the lingering pain that resided within her as she continued to recover, the welling and mounting frustration over her weakened condition, lack of mobility and overall drained and exhausted state. Was perhaps why that any potential discomfort that she may feel as Kori attempted to heal her, would be something that would father bare for the immediate moment - like ripping off a batca patch, it was best getting it over and done with rather than dragging it out.

A sight passed Alyse's lips as she nodded in resignation, there was little point nor any purpose in resisting it. Not because there was no longer the grounds of an unease between the Sith and Jedi, but because of the growing connection and affection that lay between the two women. Alyse knew that if there was any discomfort, she trusted Kori to know that it was never intentional. "Ok" Alyse spoke softly as she closed her eyes, and held out her hands for the Jedi to take as instructed, as she opened her mind to the Force.

The Ashen blonde's features contorted at little as she felt the force flow from the Zeltron and through her. Her brow furrowing as she felt the familiar sting of the darkside within her react to the presence of the Lightside, like an inflammation or host reacting to a foreign body. Even if Kori was unable to see the reaction on the blonde's features, the slight clenching and tightening of her hold of Kori's hands , gave tell to the slight discomfort that she was weathering. After a brief moment, Alyse's hold over Kori's hand relaxed, her thumbs sliding along the back of the Zeltron's hand for a moment - as rather than to focus and ignore the pain, the human instead increased her focus on Kori's presence and lifeforce.

 

[Nykoria Tallis]

What started as a soft wind between Alyse's fingers would spread across her body. The technique that Nykoria wanted to use was a simple one: to use the holocron's instruction on pain management in conjunction with the nascent bond between them, to ensure that the sting from the Light was felt by the Jedi rather than by the Sith. It put additional strain on Kori's ethereal strength and concentration, as she would have to use a more complex technique and steal away the discomfort that Alyse would've experienced otherwise. Kori might have chosen Bakura over the Order, but it was still a Jedi thing to do. Especially to a person she shared such a connection with.

If the Jedi Master were to succeed, Alyse would go through an uplifting experience. It would be like getting engulfed by a light breeze on a summer day; like finding a lake of cool and clean water in the hot arid desert; like rain in a drought; like reliving the happiest moment you've ever had. And alongside it, the understanding that everything happened for a reason, and that you exist in the galaxy for a purpose. The Light would melt the pain and wash it away, replacing it with calm comfort.

To Kori though, things would be quite different. Although trained in the use of the Light and accustomed to it, her focus would be not only on transferring her own strength to Alyse, but also numbing the blonde's pain that she was taking the brunt of. The Zeltron's eyes were closed; teeth clenched, a contorted expression on her face, and beads of sweat running down the purple forehead. And yet, Kori was holding on to Alyse's hands, guiding the Life Force through her towards the blonde.

Despite the strain Kori would carry on with it. What gave her strength was the desire to help someone who had saved her life; someone who accepted her for what she was, no strings attached; someone she has grown to care about. That, and to let that someone experience how the Jedi sensed the Force, even for a little while. Only when the Zeltron bordered on running out of strength, did she finally yield. The stream of the Force slowed down to a trickle, before bringing the Jedi and the Sith back into the real world.

That's when Kori's palms finally let go of Alyse's. The Zeltron leaned against the kitchen table; her contorted expression making way for a weary smile. "Well," Kori caught a breath, her voice a little exhausted. "That's... all I can do for you for now. How are you feeling?"

@Topher

 

[Alyse Ti'Varnus]

The longer the flow of the Force continued to flow between the Zeltron and the Human, from Jedi Master to Sith Lord, and the more that the ashen blonde, ignored the pain and instead focused not on the influx of the light side of the Force within and throughout a spiritual essence that was thoroughly engrained in the depths of the Dark side. But on the very life essence of Kori, the one who's hands she had held in her own, the one whom she had a growing bond and connection to, and more importantly the woman that Alyse had committed herself to.

Whilst perhaps the sensations that the Jedi Master had intended for Alyse to feel, there was no tangible uplift that was comparable to that of a cool breeze during summer, or the taste of cool clean water in the middle of a desert- were absent in a sense. The uplift and comfort that Alyse felt was that of what she found from the company and closeness she had with the Zeltron. All that she saw ahead of her, was the visage of Kori's essence and that was all that she needed to focus on.

As the sensations started to wean, and her senses started to return back to normal and away from the ethereal touch of the Force, feeling that the Jedi has released her hold of Alyse's hands. The Ashen blonde, took a deep breath and slowly opened her eyes her smile wavering as she caught sight of an exhausted Zeltron leaning back against the worktop. Her eyes narrowed as she looked away from Kori, after she asked how Alyse was feeling, her lips pursing in thought as she closed her eyes, took a deep breath and focused the Force through her, channelling and drawing upon it fully and once again with the unmistakable decisive and driven aura that resonated from the ashen blonde.

Opening her eyes, revealing their milky white hue for a brief moment as she looked down to her hand. Which soon started to project cascading arcs of electricity along the lengths of her fingers, crackling with the raw potential of her power now fully restored. A smile curling on her lips as she closed her eyes once again, knowing how the sight of her phasing had in the past make Kori uncomfortable - before slowly raising her crackling hand up towards the Zeltron's features. As intimidating a sight of a hand that was actively channelling Force lightning drawing close to your face could be, the crackling arcs of energy radiated differently in the Force from how Kori had felt it before. Even if the Jedi flinched, the ashen haired Sith would continue to move her hand towards the side of Kori's face and make contact.

What Kori would feel was only the sensation and warmth of the Governor's soft alabaster skin pressing against that of her own and nothing else, the sound of the electrical arcing was still present but the expected sting and lash of hatred was completely absent. Slowly the soft fingers caressed the side of Kori's features, as a light chuckle escaped from the Governor's lips, her head tilting to the side slightly as a warm smile lingered, and continued to hold for a few moments longer, satisfied and confident that the bond they shared and connected each other, meant that her destructive abilities would not harm the Zeltron.

Slowly and hesitantly Alyse eased her hand away from her partner's face, the arcs of electrical energy dissipating and fading into nothingness. Her eyes opening as they phased back into their natural hue state. "Ready to face the rest of the path that lays ahead" Alyse spoke as she reached her hands out to take Kori's into her own. "With you beside me"

 

[Nykoria Tallis]

Nykoria was too focused on the healing and the accompanying techniques to notice how the recipient reacted to them. What she did notice was that the connection was easier to maintain and harder to break up than she had expected. Unaware of the exact reasons as to what exactly was going on on the blonde's end, the Zeltron was still relieved to see her recover. While Alyse's smile wavered, Kori's blossomed: the hardest part was done.

Exhausted, the Zeltron watched as Alyse turned away and called upon the Force in a way that she always did: through absolute control of her darker impulses. The sparks of electricity, which the Sith Lord had demonstrated so often during the past travels, bent to her will effortlessly, as before. There was something different about them; but before Kori realized what it was, the milky-white irisless eyes stared at her. Kori couldn't but gasp. It had been a while since she last saw Alyse like that. The visage made the smile look almost predatory. An intimidating, yet breathtaking sight.

The Jedi's reaction was slow from exertion. Even if it wasn't, Kori couldn't avert her gaze from the approaching alabaster palm and the milky-white eyes. She did flinch when Alyse's hand touch her, and for a moment her eyes closed, resigned to her fate. But then there was... nothing. No pain at least. Only a soft touch, similar to that they shared on Giaca.

Moments after realizing that, the Zeltron's eyes opened and squinted at the pale palm. The arcs of electricity were still there, but it was as if they weren't. And the blonde's smile seemed to have shifted from predatory to amused and caring. Kori turned her face a little towards the palm, making sure not to draw it away in the process. An expression of fear and surprise changed int one of understanding and affection as Kori looked in the blonde's eyes again. No longer offput even by their irisless state.

When the blonde's eyes shifted into their natural state, and she took Kori's hands the Zeltron smiled back: "Good." Truth to be told, she didn't know what else to say, or even if any other words were needed. However, she did find something. Winking at Alyse, Kori would add, quietly and confidently: "Wouldn't have it any other way."

 

[Alyse Ti'Varnus]

A warm smile curled on her featured as she nodded in response to Kori's words and closing the space between them. So that she could rest her head against Kori's shoulder, whilst wrapping her arms around the Zeltron's waist. "First things first" Alyse spoke, has she eased herself of the impromptu embrace. A grin forming on her on her features, as she coaxed Kori away from the counter she was propped up against, and proceeded to lead the Zeltron out of the kitchen and back towards the communal living space - before then gesturing for Kori to settle down on the sofa.

"Make yourself comfortable...."Alyse spoke as she slowly withdrew her touch on the Zeltron, before stepping away from the side of the sofa, and moving back to the dining table, pouring out the rest of the wine from the bottle into Kori's glass, before returning to the Zeltron's side and handing her the wine. ".. and rest up. I'll deal with the washing." She resumed after the wine glass was handed into Kori's grasp before leaning over to lightly kiss her companion. "You've done more than enough for now, so please rest and take it easy, you'll be needing your strength for later" she added, although there was a warmth towards Kori conveyed in her tone, there was just a hint of Alyse's typical decisive nature in her words.

As in her mind not only had Kori prepared and cooked a pleasant meal, and exhausted herself accelerating her recover. It was decided that for the rest of the Day Kori would take it easy whilst Alyse dealt with clearing the plates away and washing them. Stepping away from Kori's side, Alyse returned to the dining table, and gradually cleared it away, making little trips back and forth between the kitchen space and where dining table was located. Before with a grunt the ashen blonde folded and collapsed the table and seat surfaces back into the bulk head wall. Her eyes looking down to Kori on the sofa as she passed in her return trip to the kitchen to wash up.

"What do you know of the Fulcrum and the Cosmic Balance?" Alyse inquired as she started to decant the left overs and scraps into the waste processor, before taking a step back to fill a sink. The ashen blonde figuring that it was as good a time as any to get Kori better appraised of a world she would be calling home. But it was more to keep the Zeltron's mind alert and awake, so to avoid returning from washing up to find that Kori has fallen asleep and put a stopper on what the ashen blonde was planning for later.