Ask (New) Alder-ight Questions.

[Karys]

The last few weeks had been exhausting. Karys had been training the entire time leading up to Malachor. Up until the trip there, Karys was worried he was losing what he and Azar had. Then everything overflowed between them, emotions broke and the truth made its way to the surface. Now things were similar to how they had been before, there were still strict moments. But ultimately Karys was just happy to have Azar.

Once the duo had left Malachor’s surface it wasn’t hard for Karys to convince Azar to take a small vacation. Both of the men were tired, both needed relaxation, and Karys wanted just he and Azar. It took time for him to find a world both of them could potentially enjoy, but Karys eventually found one.

New Alderaan.

It had been the world Karys had told Madam Azaka they were headed to on their honeymoon. That was part of the reason he’d selected it. He wasn’t sure how Azar would feel about visiting the planet but he hadn’t asked either. He simply acted, and in a week they’d have their vacation.

The day the pair were supposed to leave, Karys found himself on his ship. He’d been tirelessly working on something for Azar, something he spared no expense getting for him. The K’lor Slug meat was unlike anything Karys had cooked with before. He’d been up most of the night trying to make Azar’s favorite dishes, this was the final sample. Karys knew it wouldn’t be perfect but he wanted it to be good enough.

When Azar arrived, he’d find a trail of edible dessert flowers leading him to the dining room. On the table sat chickpea curry and K’lor Slug chowder. But Karys was nowhere to be found, at least not initially. All it would take was Azar to peak into the adjacent kitchen to find Karys asleep standing at his sink. He’d fallen asleep standing up while cleaning the dishes.

@Sreeya

 

[Darth Arcanos]

Azar was always nervous about flying, and even almost a decade out in the galaxy didn’t change that. He always felt almost physically ill and had to curb his anxiety about space travel. He couldn’t even bear to look at the vortex of hyperspace, the very sight instantly inducing vomiting. The Pureblood wasn’t even sure what New Alderaan was, but Karys was on a mission so he let the other man do all the planning.

He had a long day at the academy since he had to put in extra work to allow himself to go away on a vacation. Azar had left a few others to cover for him while he was gone, and he had a feeling the ‘substitute teacher’ was just going to wheel in a Holoscreen and play Nill Bye the Science Guy for the acolytes and their chemistry lessons.

Azar stifled a yawn as he walked into the ship, “Ugh, you will not believe how long my day-” He began to complain, stopping abruptly when he spotted the flower on the ground. He picked it up and sniffed it. It was definitely edible. Azar realized it was a trail and he was briefly reminded of those sappy, romantic holomovies Karys loved to sob through. A smile graced his lips as he followed the trail, but he stopped abruptly as he sniffed the air.

It smelled like home.

Emotions began to swirl even before he saw it all laid out. Azar stopped to marvel at the food set out - everything looked just as his father’s second wife had made it. He had to grit his teeth to keep tears from welling up in his eyes. He knew that slug alone would have been a nightmare to obtain this far away from Korriban. Azar looked around for Karys, beginning to call his name before he spotted him. The pureblood wasn’t even remotely surprised to find him standing there fast asleep, hands still submerged in a sink full of water.

Azar closed the distance and took a moment to stare at him. He gazed upon that peaceful face, the slow rise and fall of his chest, his mouth hanging slightly open because he was out cold. All of it was goofy, and all of it was Karys. Azar didn’t interrupt him for now, looking at him fondly as it was just he and his thoughts with Karys deep in his own world.

“I love you,” Azar whispered quietly, knowing Karys couldn’t hear. He smiled at the other man, letting the words linger in the air between them. Words he was still too afraid to say aloud while they were Master and Apprentice. Words he had wanted to deny, but he no longer could. But he did say them, and he did make it real. Even if it was just to himself for now.

He finally took a deep breath, recovering quietly. Azar opted to reach over and give a hard pinch to Karys’ rear to wake him up. Karys would find Azar standing there grinning at him when he awoke with a start.

@Apollyon

 

[Karys]

Karys stood there, he was still in a filthy green apron, the words Get a load of these buns barely visible amidst the smeared and caked ingredients on its front. Azar would see fresh welts on his forearm were he’d accidentally brushed his arm against the oven element while removing bread from it. While he wouldn’t be able to tell how long Karys had been standing there, touching the sink water would reveal it was cold and Karys’ fingers were well pruned at this point. It was obvious by the depth of his sleep and the amount of dirty dishes, Karys had been at this all night.

A Herculean culinary endeavor.

But he’s done it for Azar, he wanted Azar to feel at home. He wanted him to relax and feel secure. It was how Azar had always made him feel. So it was time that Karys ensured Azar felt the same.

Karys smacked his lips as he slept, a string of drool dribbled from his mouth and plopped into the water. Whatever he was dreaming about, it was clearly a good one, something that had become rarer lately for him. And then Azar pinched him on his rear. Karys jolted awake at the sensation.

“Hrm?” He mumbled as he stumbled into the sink. Karys blinked his eyes rapidly in surprise and then reached up to paw at his face, splashing cold water all over himself. He glanced in Azar’s direction, and gave him a groggy grin. <Oh hey babe, I was just dreaming abo-> Karys had been in the midst of saying when glanced past him and to the table. <OH SHIT THE FOOD!> He yelled in frustration. <I was supposed to be dressed and ready already! It was meant to be a surprise!> He was quite clearly annoyed and upset with himself.

@Sreeya

 

[Darth Arcanos]

Azar watched Karys jolt awake right into the sink. The sight actually caused Azar to start giggling, a sound that only Karys ever heard. As usual, he was embarrassed by his own laugh, quickly trying to cover his mouth. However, the other man’s flailing and grogginess only fueled it further. Azar reached over and grabbed Karys by the shoulders, forcing the larger man to look at him, “Baby, breathe,” He said, “It’s okay,” He smiled brightly at Karys. He reached over and brushed a thumb over his lip to wipe away some drool, the sight threatening to make him laugh again, “You didn’t have to do all this,” He gestured over at the food, “It’s perfect..and it takes me right back to Korriban..but..”

Azar grasped Karys’ arm, turning it to look at the welt, “Look at you..” He sighed, shaking his head. Azar tugged Karys down towards his height to kiss him, pulling back after a moment, “You’re an idiot,” He said with a smile. He gave him a tight hug before shoving him away, “Go sit down, I have this,” Azar said as he picked up on the dishes where Karys had left off.

He quirked a brow as he looked over his shoulder, “What were you going to wear?” He asked, suddenly curious.

@Apollyon

 

[Karys]

When Azar grabbed his shoulders Karys blinked a few times. He called me baby. A smile tugged at Karys’ lips at that realization. Karys allowed Azar to clean him up, he’d missed these moments with his lover. Karys’ golden eyes drank in Azar’s smile, his ears craved the sound of his giggle once more. This was bliss and Karys was lost in it.

<I know I didn’t.> Karys admitted to Azar as his lover looked him over. <But I wanted to.> He continued, barely getting the words out before Azar pulled him into a kiss. <Azar wait> Karys muttered as Azar wrapped him in a tight hug and then tried to hurry him from the kitchen. <You make me feel safe, when I’m with you…> Karys voice trailed off mid-confession. <…it feels like home or what one should feel like.> He admitted while he pulled the apron from his massive frame.

Karys watched for a moment as Azar began cleaning his mountain of dishes. He gave a crooked smirk. This was supposed to be Azar’s day to relax, but here he was, fretting over him. This was why Karys had fallen in love with Azar.

Karys was snapped out of his daydream when Azar asked him what he was going to wear. <Oh.> Karys replied embarrassed that he was still in his grey sweat pants and a tee shirt. <We might need to do some shopping on New Alderaan actually babe.> He began. <Whatever happened on Malachor, I think it’s made me grow some too.> Karys admitted cautiously, not meaning to bring up work but it was topical. <I was originally going to wear whatever is traditional for Korriban Sith…but all I found on the Holonet were costumes.> Karys explained. <And I don’t think they were…accurate.> He continued. <So I tried on my dress clothes instead…they’re too small now.>

Almost for effect, Karys gestured to his sweat pant leg that were high waters on him. In addition, the shirt he wore was tight across his chest and biceps. He’d definitely been growing.

@Sreeya

 

[Darth Arcanos]

Azar paused when Karys told him how he felt. The words meant more to Azar than Karys would know. Out here in the greater galaxy, purebloods almost always felt like outsiders. It was exceedingly rare to truly feel safe, and for Karys to admit that meant a lot. Azar smiled at the other man, tugging him down briefly to kiss his forehead, “Every day you inspire me to be a better man than I was yesterday,” He whispered quietly before drawing back.

He hummed a tune to himself while he did the dishes, absentmindedly not even realizing it was a song from some stupid Tok Tik video popular in the acolyte circles. Azar glanced over when Karys mentioned that he had grown, a smirk appearing on his face as his gaze flicked up and down, “Oh trust me, darling, I’ve noticed,” He gave Karys a wink before returning to the dishes, “I suppose you may as well wear as little as possible while you have this dilemma,” Azar suggested matter of factly as he shrugged.

He grimaced at the thought of their cultural clothing being marketed as ‘costumes’. Azar vowed to poison anyone he saw wandering around dressed like a Korriban prince.

Eventually, the dishes were done and Azar opened up his bag to draw out the utensils Karys had given him. He sat down at the table, opening a lid and practically inhaling the scents, “Gods, I haven’t eaten this in years,” He said with a huge smile, eagerly spooning it into bowls.

“I wouldn’t mind seeing you in Korriban garb one day,” Azar said with a grin, “But it’ll be when you are on the planet itself,” He was determined to return at some point. His heart was tugging at it. He vowed to clear his name eventually.

Azar knew the stew would be excellent, but it still gave him pause when he tried it. Karys would see his eyes glisten a bit before Azar quickly wiped them, “It really…it really reminds me of home,” He said as he tried more of the food, emotion clearly in the way his voice almost cracked. He reached a hand over to grasp Karys’, giving it a squeeze, “It'll just be us for this trip, baby….just Azar and Karys. Let’s put aside the other stuff for now.”

@Apollyon

 

[Karys]

Karys smiled as Azar tugged him down to kiss him on his forehead. He gently squeezed his lover’s side, happy to simply have this alone time with him. Karys’ crimson skin deepened at Azar’s confession, it wasn’t something he’d ever been told before. The normally loud, flirtatious, and talkative Karys was speechless for once.

Karys leaned against the frame of the kitchen door as Azar washed the dishes. He knew the tune from a trend tik tok, had Azar figured out how to download apps? Regardless, Karys hadn’t seen Azar this happy since the their first night together. He simply enjoyed basking in the warmth of his lover’s joy. It was a moment interrupted by Azar’s suggestion and Karys’ all too willingness to indulge.

When Azar turned to smell the aroma of the chowder, he’d feel something balled up and soft him him the middle of his back. When he turned back around, Karys was shirtless. He’d be able to see the scar from where the lightning had hit him started at the small of his back and wrapped around to his chest, just beneath his arms and up to his neck. The mirrored scars looked like a pair of vines growing from that singular location. It was something that Karys had embraced as just another mark of Azar and his story together.

Karys’d have a mischievous smirk that reached his tired golden eyes. His thumbs sat firmly beneath the waistband of his sweat pants. He’d begin to tug them down but pause, and simply flip the waist down instead.

<I want you to eat your fill before we sate other appetites.> Karys teased, nodding back to the table.

He’d help Azar set the table and serve their dinner. Honestly, he was both excited to try the new dish and nervous for Azar’s reaction. So when Azar began to eat and nearly started to cry over how good Karys had done, Karys got misty eyed too. He did his best to hide it, but Azar would know that expression in Karys’ face. As Azar gushed over the meal, Karys sat with the happiest smile on his face. He’d even stopped eating to simply watch as Azar ate spoonful after spoonful.

This was his home.

Azar reached over and squeezed his hand, telling him that it would just be them on this trip. When Karys heard that he squeezed Azar’s hand back and his expression brightened even further. Just the two of them, not as Sith, but as Azar and Karys. The thought was intoxicating.

<That sounds absolutely perfect baby.> Karys whispered in reply as he gazed lovingly at Azar.

Karys watched as Azar ate, his mind wandered to their vacation. It was a couples vacation, to New Alderaan none the less. It sparked a dozen questions in Karys’ mind.

<Azar. I know we haven’t discussed this…> Karys started nervously. <…what are we?> He asked his voice wavering slightly.

@Sreeya

 

[Darth Arcanos]

The sight of the lighting scar sent waves of guilt through Azar. However, he had to remind himself that he couldn’t fail Karys as his Master. Part of learning was understanding boundaries in teaching. If Karys tested them, he would be swiftly reminded. He couldn’t go back on what he did, so that lightning was meant to be there. Karys, at least, didn’t appear to linger on it, his fingers teasing along his waistline to stir up desires within Azar. However, both men knew how much Azar loved his stews and how nothing could make him budge from them.

Not even Karys could distract Azar from Karys’ cooking.

The Pureblood savored every bite, even getting himself second helpings. The spice levels were absolutely perfect, and he finished with a cup of water. Azar wanted nothing more than to curl up with Karys and just do absolutely nothing. He could sense trepidation from Karys even before he spoke, so his golden gaze was already traversing towards him before he said the words.

While Karys was practically melting in his seat, Azar leaned back in his and crossed his arms over his chest, “What do you wish for us to be?” He asked calmly. Unlike Karys, Azar had a complete poker face, and even their bond would only reveal tranquil waters.

@Apollyon

 

[Karys]

Karys squirmed in his seat at Azar’s neutrality. He hated it. He wasn’t sure how to navigate the treacherous waters of love because he’d never been in love before. He bit his lip nervously as he ran a hand through his hair.

Should he just back off now?

Karys knew he couldn’t do that. He knew this was a pivotal moment in their relationship. Even as his leg began to shake from the nerves, Karys spoke.

<I don’t know Azar.> He replied truthfully. <We make love to one another, I’ve told you that I’m in love with you, and you are the only person I feel this safe with.> He continued. <I’m not saying you can’t have others, I don’t care about that.> He quickly stated. <I just want to know that they will never have your heart.> Karys explained. <Even if no one else knows this and it’s only between the two of us.> His voice wavered before he spoke again. <I just want us to belong to one another…>

This was likely to oddest way to ask another person out. But it was the only way Karys knew to put his request to words. He was in love and was searching for stability in whatever had budded between them. He wanted more.

@Sreeya

 

[Darth Arcanos]

Azar said nothing for a moment after Karys finished speaking, his face still difficult to read. He could sense the other man was nervous, and could practically see him trembling. After what felt like ages, a smirk graced Azar’s lips. Wordlessly, he rose up and walked over towards Karys, sliding down to casually sit on his lap while facing him. He wrapped his arms around Karys’s neck, gazing up at the taller Massassi hybrid.

“Are you uh…what do the acolytes call it…asking me to be your boyfriend?” He asked with a soft chuckle, gazing into the yellow eyes that almost matched his. 'Boyfriend' sounded both cute and juvenile. He drew a hand back and caressed along the side of Karys’ face, fingers grazing over the ridges that he was so familiar with.

“I think I’ve belonged to you since you first showed up with your dislocated nose and bandaged face on Zygerria, Loth-kitten,” He smiled at Karys before leaning in to kiss him.

@Apollyon

 

[Karys]

Karys felt his anxiety and nervousness melt away when Azar smiled.The tension that was beginning to build across his shoulders and in his neck faded into obscurity as Azar settled into his lap. Karys’ arms instinctively slid around his lover’s back to support him. When Azar wrapped his arms around Karys’ neck the fear was the last thing to vanish from him, he felt safe.

When Azar asked if Karys was asking him to be boyfriends, Karys couldn’t speak. He couldn’t find the words, he was so lost in the moment all he could summon was a slow nod of confirmation. He wanted more than just to make love to Azar at night and hold him close, he wanted more than just his love, he wanted to to give his heart to Azar and receive the other man’s in turn.

Those feelings terrified him to admit.

But at Azar’s next words Karys absolutely melted, the feeling of Azar’s fingers toying with his facial ridges it cause Karys to lean into their kiss. He savored every moment of it, filling that moment with not only passion but for the first time, love. Karys’ arms would pull Azar into his chest, his hands gripped the back of his teaching robes. Karys nuzzled Azar after their kiss broke, drinking in this moment of intimacy between them.

<I’ve belonged to you since Zygerria as well.> Karys whispered. <You were so handsome in those robes, standing above a burning city.> Karys told him, remembering when he first laid eyes on Azar. <I was enthralled by you and your magicks then…> He giggled at the memory. <…and I still am now baby.> He admitted before lightly kissing Azar again.

<You are my home Azar.> Karys whispered into Azar’s lips.

@Sreeya

 

[Darth Arcanos]

Labels weren’t something Azar was ever concerned with, but he could appreciate that Karys was ultimately younger than him and operated by different rules. He knew that term of sealing what they were would catch his attention and give him pause. Azar smiled at Karys, taking a moment to brush his fingers along the man’s hair. He couldn’t help but smile at Karys’ version of a giggle, a sound he didn’t hear from the man otherwise.

Azar looked forward to Karys no longer being an acolyte, and he wouldn’t hide their love. Unlike many among the Sith, Azar knew he had enough clout and personal strength to avoid any silly exercises the Dark Lord may place on him. She knew his worth and she had no reason to punish those that were driving the faction forward. Drivers within the Sith were few and far in between and Azar was one. He knew exactly where he stood and the influence he commanded.

He slid his hands down along the sides of Karys’ neck, tracing his fingers over the man’s bare shoulders. Azar smirked as he looked up at his man, “I was sitting on you just like this on the Zygerrian Queen’s throne,” He whispered as he teasingly ground his hips where he was seated.

@Apollyon

 

[Karys]

Karys' heart fluttered at Azar's smile. There was passion that burned in his golden eyes as he felt Azar's slide down his neck and onto his shoulders. The touch was soothing to the aches and pains that plagued him since mere days after leaving Malachor, it was a symptom of the rapid and unnatural growth that was occurring. Every single touch Azar gave him soothed or relaxed his body in some way, it allowed him to forget the physical suffering for just a moment.

Every touch was intoxicating.

However, when Azar ground his hips into Karys, his mind shifted from the cute little moment and drifted to other activities. Azar would feel Karys' interest rise under him, as it turned out Karys' body wasn't the only thing growing. At Azar's words, Karys remembered that fateful ride on the Queen's throne. He remembered how he strode up to Azar, leaving a trail of armor and clothing in his wake. He remembered Azar's pants, how lost he was in pleasure at their first pairing. How drunk Azar had made him on lust and passion leading up to those moments.

Karys craved it again.

Without warning Karys would stand, one of his arms sliding down to support Azar and the other tightened his grip, pinning his lover to his chest. He kissed Azar, flooding his senses with the deep hunger that rippled through him as he carried his beloved to their bed on his ship. Once there, Karys would toss Azar onto the mattress and climb onto the bed, sliding between his lover's still clothed legs. He lost himself in another passionate, lust-fueled embrace.

"I need it baby." He growled into Azar's lips.

@Sreeya

 

[Darth Arcanos]

Azar grinned as he was effortlessly lifted up by Karys. For all the ways Azar intimidated others, there was very little he enjoyed more than being carried around. He clung tightly to his man as they made their way to the bedroom, giggling playfully as he was tossed on the mattress. Azar gazed at Karys with a mix of lust and affection clearly displayed in his eyes.

Even before Karys acted, the Force coiled around his neck as Azar lifted his index finger to beckon towards himself. As if by invisible lasso, Karys would be yanked into the bed, a smirk gracing Azar’s lips. He hungrily kissed the other man as his legs wrapped around his hips. Karys’ body was warm against his, one hand grasping his hair while the other traced down his lightning-scarred back.

“Then take it, baby,” He whispered breathlessly in between kisses.

—​

Their journey to New Alderaan was some of the happiest moments in recent memory for Azar. For once, he put aside the Sith Order duties entirely. He was simply just Azar and he had Karys all to himself without wondering what lines they were crossing as Master and Apprentice. It was a taste of what life would be like once Karys was a champion and Azar had to remind himself not to rush to a promotion for selfish reasons.

It was evening when they landed and Azar looked forward to a night out in the city. He had read about New Alderaan and all the luxuries and posh lifestyles here. Fashion was big here and Azar had studied the styles.

He took an age in the refresher getting ready, taking the time to style his hair and put on his clothing. Azar had clearly prepared in advance, dolling himself up and even putting on an expensive chrono on his wrist.

He emerged a while later, hair perfectly styled, new color-coordinated studs dotting his ears. Mostly of note would be the attire he wore, tight-fitting and very flattering to his rear unlike his usual baggy robes. For the first time, Azar was wearing something that completely embraced his form. With the getup, he could easily pass for some sort of Alderaan upper class prince. It was the first time Azar wore formal civilian clothing.

Azar didn’t ask for Karys’ thoughts on the outfit. He knew he looked good. He only hoped Karys wouldn’t tear through the vest after getting frustrated with the knots. Azar simply gave him a playful wink before strutting off the ramp, “Come on, darling, show me around,” He called out breezily as he passed Karys.

@Apollyon

 

[Karys]

Karys laid in the bed for roughly ten minutes after they had finished enjoying his own afterglow. Eventually, Karys would get up, shower, and put on some clothes to run into town. He had to buy new dress clothes that actually fit him thanks to his new growth spurts. He was gone for roughly forty-five minutes before returning with a suit bag, a pair of new shoes, and a dress shirt.

Thankfully, New Alderaan had a store for his size Big & Tall.

When he got back to the ship, Azar was still getting dressed in the refresher. Not wanting to crowd the limited space, Karys got dressed in his room. He ensured that his shirt was properly ironed and that the tie was the right length. Despite the time and care he took into getting ready he still managed to beat Azar in finishing up getting dressed. Karys didn't complain though. He waited calmly for his lover to finish ensuring they looked absolutely stunning for the evening ahead of them.

And when Karys saw Azar, he was breathless.

Karys' golden eyes roamed down Azar's body in the tight outfit, he tugged at his tie's knot, loosening it slightly as pulsed increased slightly. Azar would watch as Karys unsubtly adjusted himself to avoid obvious signs of his arousal. He cleared his throat when Azar passed by, Karys and Dalon were finally in agreement on one thing, Azar did have a cake he wanted to take bite of.

<But of course babe.> Karys replied, snapping out of his trace-like state.

Karys would quickly follow Azar out of the shuttle and down the ramp. Once at the bottom, Karys would offer Azar his arm to take as they strolled from their docking back in the spaceport and into the city. Karys had an evening planned for their first night in New Alderaan, first was dinner, then an exclusive tour of the royal gardens, and then a balcony view of a firework display celebrating New Alderaan's founding, from their hotel room patio. It was a simple, yet elegant first evening on the town, one Karys hoped Azar would enjoy.

Karys would guide the them using an app on his EZPhone called Xaze, it plotted the quickest and most efficient route to the restaurant. The name of the restaurant was "New Alderaanily". It was considered one of the highest class restaurant's in the city and boasted one of the greatest Alderaanian chefs as the head chefs. The entire menu consisted of only the finest Alderaanian themed dishes and reservations required a proof of income to be considered. Thankfully Skye Mining Cooperative had been experiencing a higher than average income over the last several months, so getting in wasn't an issue. It was getting the date that proved next to impossible, but that wasn't too much of an issue when you had the Force on your side.

Karys simply mind tricked the matradee into believing they were on the reservation list for the evening, some other couple would have to wait six months to eat here. But it wouldn't be Azar and him.

<After you my love.> Karys whispered to Azar as the matradee led them to their quiet, candle-lit table.

@Sreeya

 

[Darth Arcanos]

Azar couldn’t help but giggle at Karys’ dazed expression followed by the adjustment. He stepped off the ramp in a fantastic mood and he was ready to be a regular civilian for the evening. He eagerly took Karys’ arm, taking a moment to admire his state of attire. While he would have loved to have seen him in the warrior clothing of the Massassi clans, he could certainly appreciate how the suit fit Karys' muscled form.

He paid little heed to the directions, letting Karys guide him along. Azar instead looked all around them, still not used to cities and metropolitan areas. He stared in wonder, watching speeders zoom by around and above them.

“Do you enjoy the lifestyle of Outsiders?” Azar asked curiously. He knew Karys adapted far easier to the wider galaxy, and it was likely because he was younger. Azar stuck to his old Sith ways, but Karys knew how to talk, dress and act like any average civilian. A part of Azar envied the man, “It seems so carefree and…delightfully purposeless,” He chuckled softly to himself. There was no grand design to adhere to, no overarching goal to claw towards, just living and enjoying life.

Azar marveled at the restaurant, the ornate designs and the general atmosphere speaking volumes of how upperclass it was. For the first time in almost a decade, Azar felt slightly at home. After all, he had been a prince back on Korriban and had grown up with luxury.

He snickered to himself as Karys tricked the maitre’d, “I see my teaching is being put to good use,” He said slyly as he glanced at his man.

There was soft music playing and Azar could see wealthy couples all around. He sat at the table across from Karys, feeling both as if he did and didn’t belong here. Azar reached a hand over and gave Karys’ hand a squeeze, “Thank you for this, baby,” He said with a smile. It was one of those rare times where Azar was simply just himself and absolutely delighted to have an evening out with his partner.

The menu was in some fancy Basic dialect, which meant Azar couldn’t read it. He would rely on Karys for translations and simply give up and ask him to order for them both. Karys knew Azar’s tastes well enough to where Azar trusted him entirely on that front.

The waitstaff came over and placed glasses of drinks before them, which was no doubt intended for the original couple celebrating their relationship. Azar gave a polite smile until the staff walked away. He reached a hand over and swirled it above Karys’ drink, shifting the composition of it on the spot. The flavor would change entirely to be sweeter and something Karys could actually tolerate. Azar knew his man despised the taste of alcohol.

“Cheers,” He said with a smile, clicking their glasses together before he took a sip.

“So why did you pick New Alderaan?” Azar asked curiously, “Even back on Panatha.”

@Apollyon

 

[Karys]

As Karys and Azar strolled through the cityscape, Karys would glance over to look at his lover every once in a while. He adored how enthralled his man was by the nightlife of the city. He’d almost forgotten how overwhelming it had been when he was first acting as an agent of his house in the wider galaxy. He smirked at Azar’s question.

<I used to enjoy it more. Their lives are filled with whatever they can afford and desire.> He admitted playfully. <It acted like a lure for me, and I was beginning to stray away from the path.> He continued as his gaze focused on Azar. <And then I met a man who ignited a passion within me.> A small knowing smile teased the edges of his lips. <Then he somehow managed to steal my heart.> Karys teased.

Karys’ golden eyes would continue to drink in Azar’s sense of enchantment by the city around them. The ghost of a happy smile graced his lips as they continued toward the restaurant. After arriving and bypassing the waitlist, Karys would smirk at Azar’s comment. Azar’s training had been invaluable. Karys had begun meditating in both the morning and evening once more, nurturing his relationship with the Dark Side. He had only grown stronger since Malachor and that had increased his own confidence.

<Wait until you feel some of the tricks I’ve relearned.> Karys whispered, the suggestive and lustful tone written clearly in his voice.

When they were finally sat at their intimate table for two and they had been left entirely alone, Azar grasped his hand. There was a gentle squeeze as Azar expressed his gratitude for everything. Karys gave his lover a gentle smile in return. <For you? Anything babe.> He replied.

When the menus were finally presented, Karys read through it for them. He knew Azar preferred his stews and chowders and that he preferred his food spicy. Karys ordered him a dish made from an endangered water fowl. However, he requested a selection of herbs and spices that would shift the flavor from a neutral-sweet taste to one more in line with Azar’s pallet. It wouldn’t be the same levels of spice that Karys cooked with, but it would bring a pleasant flavor to the dish. For himself, Karys ordered a dish made from a wild boar. The meat was heavily spiced and seasoned but the appeal of a new experience was too great for him to pass up.

When the wait staff returned, they had brought drinks. Whoever’s reservation they had taken was celebrating an anniversary it seemed. How unfortunate for them. Karys had went to take up his glass when Azar quickly stirred his finger in it. Karys felt his love’s brief use of the Force and had an inkling of what he’d done. A faint smile appeared on Karys’ lips as Azar lifted his glass.

<Cheers baby.> Karys replied as their glasses clinked together.

Sure enough, Azar had shifted the taste of his alcohol to something more in line with his pallet. The alcohol tasted more like a wine than it did a liquor. Karys cheeks flushed at how well Azar knew him. He wasn’t the only one who’d been watching and learning it seemed.

Karys was drawn back by Azar’s questions though. A faint smirk appeared on his lips before he answered.

<New Alderaan is a beautiful world with many sights to see and experiences to have.> Karys began. <But it’s also temperate, a climate we can both enjoy.> He continued. <It was always my plan to take you here one day. Panatha just provided the opportunity to make it more real, I suppose.>

As Karys finished speaking the waitstaff returned with a loaf of warm bread, a hot knife, a sort of honeyed spread to go on it. Karys gently cut a slice for Azar and ensured that he had a decent amount of the spread on his slices Then Karys made his own slice, he’d glance up to Azar before eating it.

<Well, what do you think of New Alderaan so far?> He asked.

@Sreeya

 

[Darth Arcanos]

Azar pondered on Karys’ question about living like a civilian. The pureblood smiled, “You don’t have to stay strictly on a path at all times,” He said with a grin, “Even our ancestors often took the scenic route,” He had his duties and adherence to a code, but he wasn’t going to let it govern his personal life as well. These moments where he and Karys simply spent time with one another without any real agenda were some of his most cherished memories.

He quirked a brow at Karys hinting at having some Force tricks for him. Suddenly he was also displeased about how long it would take to remove the corset vest and pants he wore.

Azar nibbled at the honeyed bread, “I think it’s a perfect getaway,” He agreed as he gazed at Karys, “But I’m happy anywhere I’m with you, love,” He said affectionately, giving a gentle nudge with his foot against Karys’ leg.

Their food arrived soon enough and Azar took a tentative bite. It was absolutely exquisite and he stared at the dish for a moment, “This is amazing…but I don’t like it as much as your cooking,” Azar grinned at Karys. He didn’t eat too much on account of his corset vest barely allowing room enough to breathe let alone stuff himself.

“Babe..” He began as he paused, gazing at Karys, “Did you mean it? About renouncing your family name?” It was a topic they briefly touched on, but it was one that had been painful to bring up. However, with the two men growing more serious, Azar needed to understand the depth of what Karys was going through, “Have you returned home recently?” He had been exiled, so the choice was easy for him. But Karys was facing the choice to leave and that was difficult to accept even for Azar, “Perhaps they can be reasoned with..”

@Apollyon

 

[Karys]

Karys felt Azar's foot gently rub against his foreleg. One of Azar's words stood out to Karys as he spoke them, love. Karys' heart melted at the word, it was something he'd longed to confess but could never directly say it. Karys' gaze softened even more at Azar's words, he was every bit his pet name. The small smile he wore on his face grew slightly, this was bliss.

<I am happy so long as I have you by my side.> Karys whispered in reply.

When the food came, Azar lightly picked at his food, a look of concern was clearly written on Karys' face. He had half way begun to raise his hand to call over a member of the waitstaff to have it taken back and remade when Azar spoke. A wave of relief washed over Karys, Azar liked it but still preferred Karys' simple meals to what they were eating. Karys' golden eyes fell from his lover, somehow Azar knew the words to say in order to bring him both pride and bring out his more shy side.

<Are you saying you'd prefer us to simply eat at home?> Karys teased as a smirk appeared on his lips.

However, when Azar brought up his family, Karys' smile would quickly fade. His presence in the Force would steadily shift from calm and tranquil to tempestuous. His fear had long soured to hate and rage towards his own kin. Golden eyes that were once filled with love and happiness dulled. His hand reached out and gently grasped Azar's, he wanted his lover to know that this shift wasn't towards him.

<I have, a few months ago I returned to Ziost briefly. Lady Cyutakdyr aided me in a endeavor for my father.> Karys explained. <Her request for payment was land and I ensured that the contract was fulfilled.>

When Karys spoke next, it wasn't as an Acolyte who was still navigating and learning, it was as a Sith who had made his mind up.

<There is no reasoning with them. Even if you weren't Kressh, you weren't an arranged union.> Karys explained. <My sister made the same choice Azar. She fell in love with a man of pedigree, a suitor my father would have gladly selected for her.> He began. <But he wasn't the one to arrange their union and so it was unacceptable.> Tears slowly welled at the corner of his eyes as he continued. <He invited them both home for a banquet, he told them it was to celebrate their union. He lied.> Karys explained. <Their drinks were both drugged and they were at his mercy. He had them stripped, beaten, and bound out in the Ziosti winter.> Karys continued, his voice slowed as he struggled with the memory. <He had her eyelids peeled so she couldn't look away as he skinned her husband alive. He made her watch as the Tukata came for him.> Karys' face rippled with anger at the memory. <And then he left her in the cold to die, her body was left there, unburied and unburned.> His teeth ground at those words. <And we all just watched, too afraid to do anything.> His golden eyes turned to meet Azar's. <Forsaking my name isn't enough.> Karys explained.

<Their house will burn and when I have finished with them, no Sadowling will ever pursue us, my darling.>

None of Karys' tone suggested this was up for discussion. His mind was set to this path. Familicide, was the only answer in his eyes. If he left none alive to pursue vengeance, then he'd finally be free from them.

@Sreeya

 

[Darth Arcanos]

Azar remained silent as Karys spoke. He knew this was a painful topic, but if they were venturing into something deeper, keeping secrets would be detrimental. Even before Karys delved into his family history, Azar’s eyes narrowed as he gazed sharply at his man, “Cyutadakyr,” He corrected him, “Not Lady. She has not earned that yet, so you will not address her as such,” He declared flatly. He wouldn’t tolerate Karys addressing anyone but Tempest herself with such a title.

He heard the story of his sister and it made him bristle. He had shared his own story about his sibling, the two having faced similar pasts. He could feel Karys’ anger surge through him, and it manifested in the way their drinks rippled in the glasses. Faint, hairline cracks began to appear on the cups. Azar squeezed Karys’ hand to ground him and remind him to reel his emotions in. He adored that Karys had big emotions, but it had the capacity to make the entire restaurant explode if he wasn’t careful.

Azar wanted to convince him of something else - to suggest reclaiming the name instead of erasing it. However, he saw something in Karys that he admired - determination and conviction to his cause. Azar wouldn’t get in the way of that.

“Then you must kill him,” He said as he gazed at his lover. It was what saw Azar exiled by his family, but Karys would have to execute every member to simply erase the ability for anyone else to act against him. As he pondered this, his thoughts went back to his own kin. Perhaps it was time for Azar to forcefully reclaim the Kressh name himself. He had sat on the sidelines for almost a decade. It was time to take his birthright.

@Apollyon