Ask Shattered Fantasies

[Altair Din]

Ever since the Imperial and Sith split, Altair had told his family to scatter all across the galaxy. Their farm was on temporary lockdown much to his parents’ displeasure. They would have to lay low for a while and he wasn’t going to take no for an answer. There was also the reality that their home had contingency plans for when a Sith inevitably tried to test it.

Extra security and air support was looming around the Din Fortress on Eiattu. He called his family to the palace. All of them. It should have been a joyous, happy occasion, but he knew it would be one of stress and discomfort. It wasn’t long since Clove seemingly returned from the dead and showed up at his doors pregnant with his child. As much as he wished it weren’t true, he knew it was. As much as he wanted to sever every thread with her, he knew he couldn’t cut this one.

Clove had been set up with quarters in the palace, though she rarely ever saw him. He continued on with his duties, getting status reports on her condition through medical droids or attendants instead of checking in himself. He often spent time in his chambers wondering what the baby’s kicks felt like and other tender moments he always imagined when he became a father. And yet none of it felt right. He had barely processed the fact that he was going to have a child, but he couldn’t keep it from his family.

The tiefling was waiting in the great hall, his personal sigil hanging proudly all around them. Clove was summoned here as well. He didn’t regard her beyond a polite nod, ensuring that she had a comfortable seat. Altair was adorned in his royal garb, though he didn’t don his crown since this was just his family.

He would wait for them all to trickle in before he shared the news.

@LilyNion @lizziie @Wit @Scoobert @LouJoVi @llamallove @SlagathorTheUnknown @Versok @Altaris

 

[Khalid Din]

To be honest, when his brother Altair told them to scatter and lay low, Khalid was more than happy to oblige. While other members of the family managed to do well as royalty, as important people within the Empire, Khalid couldn't really do it, he just did the bare minimum to not give the family name a bad rap, but while the older sisters were the pride of the family and could ease themselves into it and the younger ones didn't need much to adapt (Specially Laila, she really turned out to be the spoiled little sister of the family, not like he didn't spoil her himself) Khalid basically had to be a whole entire person whenever he had to act as a prince and he didn't exactly like that, and spending royal money didn't feel as good as using money he earned himself by working hard and robbing someone.

Surprisingly, Khalid would be the first one to arrive other than his brother, a smile on his face before giving him a hug and a fist bump "Why does it feel like every day I look at ya you've grown up even more? that ain't fair!" The Tiefling cowboy said before gently tapping him in the shoulder , it was not a matter of him growing up physically, not anymore, he kept growing up as a man, as a leader, truth be told, Khalid could barely keep up, hell, none in the family could at the moment "It's achievement after achievement with ya, all that you've done? I mean...Winning Huttball AGAIN?" Of course, that is what he was most proud of, something his brother probably saw coming.

"But I suppose ya didn't call us ta celebrate, this here castle ain't the best place for that kinda parties, after all." Khalid simply whispered to Altair so any other people that had joined by then didn't hear. In many ways, he was a dumbass, barely literate, unable to act polite and a bad influence all around, but he was very perspective when it came to people, he had to in order to survive the streets of the Outer Rim and the chancla of his mother, the moment he entered the room was the moment he noticed that this was about something big, something important, so he sat down, kept his casual demeanor and smile to make things less tense and waited for everyone else to come.

@All the Dins

 

[Clove Vanhoop]

The days at the palace were long and boring. It was partly her fault; locking herself away in her quarters wasn't the best way to entertain herself. But wandering around the palace felt wrong. This wasn't her home. She felt like a stranger, and Altair's lack of acknowledgment only worsened those feelings. She wanted to show off the baby's new shoes and squeal with delight at the sight of her bump moving. But she couldn't. Although she couldn't hold it against him, he made it clear that he would not enter her life. And she wanted that distance, hadn't she? So, reluctantly, she let him be unless he approached her and instead she read or spent time with the servants.

They weren't the most exciting company, but they loved to talk, so Clove only had to listen while they helped her.

It didn't take long for Clove to overhear those same servants giggling excitedly about the arrival of the princesses and princes. She wasn't sure who they were talking about at first and went about her business as usual, figuring it wasn't worth worrying about. Only a few of her dresses had been shipped over by that point, and only a few were loose enough to actually fit. Which came in handy, because it didn't take long for Clove to be summoned to the great hall. And she suddenly realized who those princesses and princes were.

No. No no no no. Clove paced through her quarters, hands on her head, fingers digging into her hair, her heartbeat pounding louder with each second. She couldn't face them. Not right now. One big happy family all in one room? No. It was the incorrect family. She couldn't even tell her parents the good news, and now she had to sit in front of family who would undoubtedly despise her? No, she had to leave, she had to go. Clove's desire to flee, the same one that caused all of this trouble, caused her to turn frantically, looking for any way out. By the time her breathing became uncontrollable, her gaze had settled on a window. Yes! Perfect! She ran up to the window and began to unlock it without hesitation. Her trembling fingers made it feel nearly impossible, but it finally opened with a click. Clove swung open the windows, preparing to climb. But just as she was about to jump out, she was distracted by the sensation of small kicks.

... What in the world was she thinking? Running away would only make things worse, and then what? Raise the child on her own, or drop her in front of Altair's door? No. And if she thought Altair deserved to know, Altair had every right to believe his family deserved to know. The half-Annfyn calmed down gradually as her fingers circled the area of her belly where she had just experienced a kick. And so the emotions that erupted in a matter of seconds vanished almost as quickly, leaving nothing but the hollowness she felt day after day. She was going to face this, wherever she liked it or not.

It didn't take Clove long to close the windows again and put on the first decent-fitting dress she could find, which was a silky cream dress with plenty of free fabric around her stomach. Her hair was neatly pinned up in a bun, with her fringe framing her face. It was the first time since that day that she had given her appearance some care.

Soon after, the half-Annfyn entered the great hall. Despite her freak-out, it seemed like she was one of the first ones to join. She'd grown somewhat accustomed to Altair's polite nod, one which she returned to him before making her way to the comfortable seat. Another Tiefling, no doubt a brother, was seated not far away from hers. So, as she took her seat, she rose her hand in greeting, her lips curled into a small smile. It wasn't exactly a genuine smile, but it seemed genuine and timid enough to those who didn't know her.

---

tag @Sreeya @lizziie @Wit @Scoobert @LouJoVi @llamallove @SlagathorTheUnknown @Versok @Altaris ​

 

[Emir Din]

Years ago, receiving a message from his brother to have a family meeting would have left Emir happy. It would mean that he was going to see all his siblings, while they eat Ma’s food. These were the good old days at the Din farm, when his only concern was to complete all his tasks and to find a good place to paint during his free time.

Unfortunately, everything changed when his brother took control of the Sunshine. Emir agreed with him that the Sith were a problem, but what Altair did basically ended with the peaceful life that their family had. Things already got strange when they were declared as nobility, having to attend events and having to deal with some occasional sycophants.

The young Din came to the conclusion that life wasn’t for him at all. He only wanted to stay in their farm, painting whatever he wanted.

Then, things got worse. His family was forced to spread across the Galaxy because the Meanies wanted revenge because of what his brother did. They were forced to leave their farm behind, which made their parents sad. Emir went with them in this “exile”, but with his eighteenth birthday getting close, he felt that he should follow his own path.

He always thought that he would be joining an Art Academy when old enough, but this dream seemed to be so distant right now. The Tiefling didn’t want to be killed by the Meanie.

When he arrived at the hall, Emir was completely focused on his datapad, looking at different Art Academies. The Tiefling had sent a message with his qualifications to every single one that he found, hoping that at least one would accept him. Of course, he was using fake names. You never know when a Meanie would jump to kill you.

While he sat at the table, Emir nodded at Altair and briefly rolled his eyes at Khalid’s comment. Their family was basically living in exile and he was making jokes about Hutt Ball. The young Tiefling also noticed the woman there, but he totally ignored her. He was already used to his brother’s secretaries, assistants, sycophants or whatever they were surrounding him like a swarm of flies. Another one being there wasn’t any surprise.

Another thing that he hated since his brother became a noble, it was so rare to have a family gathering without the intrusion of one of these people.

Once seated, he would continue looking at his datapad, believing that a reply for him could arrive at any moment. The young Tiefling would only stop when all the others arrived.

@Sreeya @Versok @LilyNion @llamallove @lizziie @Wit @Scoobert @SlagathorTheUnknown @Altaris

 

[Khalani Din]

With all that has happened in the past, and being told to go under the radar by her younger brother, there was much surprise to Khalani being called to come to the palace. She was excited and scared. Though the fear would come at a minimum, because even though Tai was the Emperor, he was her family and has only ever been caring towards his family. She was safe here, she knew this. Though what could have been so important to bring the whole family to the palace?

The rest of the family was going to be here as well, which had Khalani excited to see everyone, especially her moronic but caring twin Khalid. Arriving and walking into the room hosting the meeting, Khalani wore an elegant dress with shades of tealish green. The dress was out of respect for her brother, the King. The Emperor. Her short heels a tealish green as well, and her laid down with smooth curls and dazzling earrings.

She had taken notice of her brothers being here, Emir, Lid, and Tai. Then she noticed a woman with a child. Could she have been the reason for their arrival? A child? Whether it was or not Khalani was just happy to see her family together again. But with every family meeting, she would need a light drink.

So when Tai would notice her arrival, she would smile and wave to give her greeting from afar as she grabbed some champagne. The palace was far different from home on the farm, and perhaps the farm was even preferred but it wasn't always the place that made the home, it was the family you called home. Now it was time to see the meeting through.

@Sreeya @SlagathorTheUnknown @Versok @lizziie @LilyNion @llamallove @Wit @Altaris

 

[Kasim Din]

Kasim nearly blew off his older brother's invitation, but decided to attend for two reasons. First, failing to show to a Din get together without solid excuse was bound to draw the attention of his many siblings his direction; attention that Kasim didn't want at this particular point in his life. Second was that if anyone could help him figure out what he and Lalia had sensed not long ago, it would be his family. The Dins were both numerous and varied in their interests and talents; someone had to know what had happened.

Still, it was with some resentment that Kasim arrived to his brother's palace, occasion unknown. He hadn't seen Altair or any of his family members in person since the Killik incursion on Korriban; a time that included his older brother's coronation, his rise through the ranks of the Imperial military, and a subsequent coup that led to Altair being the new face of the Empire, not to mention another Huttball trophy. In the meantime, Kasim had fallen upon hard times. Shaken from his experiences in the mazes underneath Korriban and determined not to leech off of the success of his siblings, Kasim had hidden his identity as a prince and had tried to carve out a life for himself.

His disheveled appearance would bear witness that this had not gone well. Wrinkled clothes, a size or two too big for his frame, hung on his body, while the notches on his utility belt bore witness to his weight loss. Gone was his vibroblade, sold for a few days' rations or perhaps some spice long ago, and the last vestiges of a black eye gave some color to his pale face. He looked like shit and he knew it, but a glower and a glare had thus far prevented any of his brother's servants from approaching him. Seeing them avert their gaze whenever he glanced at them briefly amused Kasim, but he was soon scouting the room for a place that would be safe from the questions of his family as well. Khalid was there, every bit as boisterous as Kasim remembered him, balanced in silence by Emir's introversion. Elegant Khalani was present as well, seemingly fully adjusted to living the life of royalty.

His gaze then alighted on Clove, noting with some interest the girl's uncomfortable politeness. And a glance at Altair told him that this particular guest was a touchy subject, or else Kasim had forgotten how to read his family's body language. So the orange Tiefling made his way over and plopped into a chair next to Clove, hoping that being in her vicinity might shield him from the gaze of the King of Eiattu.

"Howdy?"

@Sreeya @Versok @LouJoVi @LilyNion @llamallove @lizziie @Scoobert @Altaris

 

[Laila Din]

Laila was excited. She'd been antsy and unable to fully dedicate her attention to anything for that entire day. It'd been so long since her whole family had been together! Sure, she got to see Ma and Pa, Emir and Altair since she was here on Eiattu with them all the time, but Amira? Imani? Khalid? Everyone else?

She'd been living on Eiattu for a while now. Imani had helped her, Ma and Pa move. She got way better schooling here, and... well, as much as she sometimes missed the family home, she didn't miss the lack of stuff to do.

Plus, there was always the matter of the woman. She'd seen her around the castle, but she'd thought little of her until the servants started to whisper. After that... Well, they'd all been called here.

"Khalani!" Laila burst through the doors, scanned the room, and settled on her older sister who she'd not seen in quite a while. The pink tieflings went barreling into the woman's arms whether she was ready or not, nearly toppling the older tiefkings over. "I missed ya!"

Once she realized her, the girl smoothed down the skirt of her matching set and turned to stare directly at Clove.

@Sreeya @Scoobert @LilyNion @theotherssorryonphone

 

[Imani Din]

Imani was there.

 

[Jabari Din]

Despite the chaotic nature of the preceding few weeks, Jabari couldn’t contain his excitement upon being invited back to the Palace. Since being told to lay low, the Tiefling had effectively fallen back onto his nomadic and wandering ways - traveling the Galaxy with little but the clothes on his back and set of drums. It had been far too long since his family was clustered in one place - surrounded by loved ones and Ma’s home cooking. It left Jabari homesick for Bandomeer and the life that seemed so much simpler there.

As he stepped through the palace, Jabari kept both hands tucked into his front pockets - not paying much attention to the courtiers and servants that flitted about. While Altair and Laila - spoiled as she was - seemed to adapt to the Royal Lifestyle, Jabari would always be a smuggler at heart, and had effectively done backflips to avoid the topic of ‘Royal marriages’ that seemed to crop up whenever there were parties or formal events. He would always support his family, but was in no hurry to allow himself to be tied down.

Forgoing the more traditional Eiattuian styles, Jabari still dressed up for the occasion - sporting a pair of dress pants, suit jacket and button-up shirt all in black. His two-tone hair was neatly styled, pulled back and out of his face.

Upon spotting his siblings, Jabari quickly made his way over - sneaking up as just Khalid was greeting their younger brother. “Yeah,” He said, giving Altair a clap on the shoulder. “Or maybe your midget ass is just gettin’ shorter all the time.” Jabari grinned like a devil at his older brother, tail swishing with mirth.

He gave his younger brother a one-armed hug. “Good to see you little bro,” Jabari said - allowing his burgundy eyes to sweep the court. He didn’t fail to notice his other siblings, parents, and the woman seated amongst them. Was this about the Pulse they all felt? The Empire? Something else? Jabari didn’t know, but ultimately didn’t allow the uncertainly to weigh on him too much. Whatever it was, the whole family was there to figure it out.

Making the rounds to greet the rest of his family, Jabari quickly found himself a seat - kicking back with one ankle crossed over his knee, leaning back ever-so-slightly in the chair.

\

@Sreeya @Scoobert @lizziie @llamallove @SlagathorTheUnknown @LouJoVi @Versok @LilyNion @Wit

 

[Altair Din]

Altair sat in stone-faced silence as his family filed into the room. Though they expressed their usual cheer, they would notice that the King was reserved and more withdrawn than they had ever seen him. It was clear that the responsibilities on his shoulders took a huge toll on him. Imani, of all, would note the stark difference. She would see him there seated as a king, when just a few years ago she was in his messy dorm room when he was sure he was going to flunk out of the Sith.

However, even he couldn’t resist smiling when Khalid pulled him into a hug and loudly spoke of old times. He wanted nothing more than to just go out drinking with his brothers, but Clove sitting just a few feet away was a persistent reminder of his reality.

He noticed his little brother Kasim walking in and he could tell the resentment lingered even then. In truth, Altair carried some of it as well, still irritated that his brother snuck into Korriban. Altair exhaled softly, looking up as his parents finally entered. Mama Din looked especially suspicious, her gaze flicking over to Clove immediately. Pa was oblivious, delighted to see everyone.

“Thank you all for coming,” Altair called out to them all as his attendants began serving his family refreshments and drinks before promptly leaving, “I have news to share,” He said, though he didn’t look particularly thrilled to be sharing this. He gestured to Clove, “This is Clove Vanhoop,” Altair introduced, “Some of you may recognize her as the former leader of Star Guardians. Clove and I were friends and…well..she's uh...” Damn, he had practiced this. Yet with all those eyes on him, he was suddenly sweating. He addressed millions of soldiers, went on Holo, and yet this was terrifying.

Laila was looking at him with her huge eyes. Khalid and Jabari already had their jaws hanging open with eyes glazed over in confusion and - was Khalid trying to pocket an expensive goblet in the middle of this?! Kasim and Emir were moodily looking elsewhere and pretending not to listen. His sisters and parents were the only ones actually listening. This was going to be terrible.

“I’m gon’ be a daddy,” Altair blurted out loudly. His accent came back in full form. He buried his face in his hands. There was nothing but silence for a few seconds as his family collectively processed the news.

“SAY WHAT, BOY?” Mama Din’s voice screeched to break the silence in Meerian. That opened a can of worms.

“Look Ma-”
“DON’T LOOK MA ME! YOU AREN’T MARRIED AND- OH GOODNESS!” She grasped at her chest. Pa rushed to her.

@lizziie @SlagathorTheUnknown @Altaris @Versok @Scoobert @LouJoVi @LilyNion

 

[Laila Din]

While her Ma was busy having a heart attack, Laila let out the biggest, most excited gasp she'd ever inhaled in her life. It was followed by a squeal that was about two octaves higher than she ever normally spoke.

"I'M GONNA BE AN AUNT?"

Laila turned to run to her Ma, who was being sat down gently on the ground by her Pa while she dealt with her shock. Neverminding the situation, Laila grabbed her mother's hand off her chest and excitedly shook it, repeating the revelation once again. "MA! I'M GONNA BE AN AUNTIE! AND YOU'RE GONNA BE A MEE-MAW!"

"Oh my good- oh my goodness, Ibrahim I'mma be a grandma and my baby boy ain't even married yet..."

"Take deep breaths in darlin'. Take a real big breath-"

While Pa continued to try and calm the Din family mother down, Laila continued her spree of excitement and rushed over to Clove herself. She shoved her pink hands into the half-Anfynn's, still bouncing up and down like a puppy who's owner just returned home.

"When's the baby due?" she asked, not bothering to breathe or pause before asking her next onslaught of questions. "What are ya gonna name the baby? Have you decided yet? Huh?"

tags: @Sreeya @LilyNion @everyoneelse

 

[Khalani Din]

When little Laila (@lizziie ) ran up to Khalani and bull rushed her with a hug, Khalani almost lost her balance and about toppled over. But regaining that balance, she scooped up Laila for big hug, "Oh I missed you critter bug!" Then setting her back down the voice of Tai rang clear. It was time for the announcement for why they were all here. It couldn't have been anything too crazy.. right?

Then it came.. he's gon' be a daddy. To be honest it was a surprise for a different reason. Khalani caught word of him being a ladies man and what not while he was in the Sith Empire, before it segregated. It was just, sh expected something bad.. but this was good. Looking to Lid (@Versok ) She simply giggled out, "Doesn't surprise me. Figured he'd beat 'Mani to the punch."

Then with a smile, because this was grand news and something she had been waiting to hear from any of her siblings, she came in to congratulated Tai (@Sreeya ) with a hug. "I'm so happy for you Tai." The she gave a slight slap to his shoulder, "Next time put a ring on it silly." Then she would give a little space for everyone else to get in and congratulate him.

She would move over to where she saw Laila harassing Clove, (@LilyNion ) the mom-to-be. "Laila take a breath so she can answer yer questions. Sorry she's excited."

@Wit @SlagathorTheUnknown @Altaris

 

[Clove Vanhoop]

Some eyes were drawn to Clove, while others were clearly preoccupied with catching up. All she could do was look at everyone and try to match them to the stories Altair had told her, her lips still curled into that gentle, timid, yet empty smile. "Hello." She politely responded to the 'Howdy'-ing Tiefling who sat down next to her.

So far, so good.

Everyone began to take their seats, and all eyes were drawn to Altair. She wasn't sure what he was doing, but he looked unprepared. Because a wave of unexpected emotions and a thick accent escaped from the king. And for a short moment, he looked like the boy who felt embarrassed because he assumed they had met for a different type of herb. Clove locked her gaze on him for a split second before shifting her gaze to the rest of the group, bracing herself for the worst.

What she imagined the worst-case scenario to be was in fact not the actual worst-case scenario. Because she hadn't foreseen Ma Din screeching herself into a near-heart attack, going on and on about getting married. And all Clove could do was stare, stare with a hollowed look in her eyes as the void in her chest reached for her skin and tore at it. Marrying. Marrying Altair. It would have been a beautiful wedding, with her wearing a large white gown decorated with many small flowers made by her mother. Altair's family would have been there, cheering them on as they kissed to seal the deal. It'd have everything from baked goods to music and dancing. And as images of what could've been flashed before her eyes, Clove finally lowered her gaze to her empty hands.

Who was she kidding? He clearly pointed out they weren't even friends anymore.

Her empty hands were not empty for long. When those smaller pink hands grabbed hers, Clove's eyes shot back up, this time a little startled. It was the youngest Tiefling, the girl she'd seen walking around the palace every now and then. While Ma Din was trying to take some deep breaths to avoid passing out, it seemed like that the girl was having the time of her life. Clove smiled gently, not wanting to ruin the girl's mood. "The doctors aren't sure because a Tiefling and half-Annfyn hybrid isn't very common. They believe it will be within a month, but it could be sooner or later." Hopefully sooner than later, because she'd been carrying for over a year. Curse those Annfyn genes. Clove paused for a moment, thinking about how to answer. "There is no name yet. But I'm sure she'll get the perfect name once she's born."

Clove's gaze was drawn to the elegant Tiefling, who apologized for Laila's behavior. "Oh, please don't apologize, it's very sweet." At least two of the siblings seemed happy or excited enough. "I'm... uhm..." There was no point in going back to Liona now that Altair had stepped over the fact that she'd been hiding her real name. "Clove. Although he just said that. It's a pleasure to meet you. And you, Laila." She returned her attention to Khalani with a frown. "Should I... say anything to your mother? I don't want her to force Altair to marry. We... both don't want to get married."

---

tag @Sreeya @lizziie @Scoobert @SlagathorTheUnknown @everyone else ​

 

[Khalid Din]

Being the one closest to Clove, the Tiefling cowboy couldn't help but notice that the woman that was now greeting him had a bun in the oven, his eyes going wide for the briefest of moments as he became the first one to be aware what was going on, a expression that only Clove herself would be able to notice before he went back to his laid back, welcoming smile "Howdy, nice ta meetcha" He would say before accepting the hand shake, wondering if she was a current lover or an ex girlfriend or something else...Khalid already ruled out the idea of her being a noble, no way Altair would've fallen for a snob, not without making it a nobility stunt at least.

Regardless, the Tiefling proceeded to act as if everything took him by surprise if only to steal that snazzy goblet that he could probably sell for a couple grand in the middle of the panic and confusion, only to drop it when he was immediately caught by Altair, playing it off as if that all was part of the surprised reaction.

And then hilarity ensued as everyone went crazy, a small smile on his face as this meant that ma wouldn't be asking him to settle down and have a kid for a while now, Altair now drew all that attention for himself "Well duh, 'Mani's too much of a bookworm ta be the first one...And it certainly wasn't gonna be Nadiya either." He said in response to Khalani, never a bad time to take a jab at their oldest sister.

Khalid couldn't help but chuckle as the pink blur that was Laila began talking to Clove, always amused by her energy. His expression, however, would change to a more serious one after Clove explained that they didn't plan on marrying "Ah, I see, so that's how it is..." Khalid would say with a look of understanding...These two looked far to awkward with each other at the moment, it made sense. The Tiefling wouldn't be able to stop himself from looking in the direction of their mother for a moment, knowing full well that she was gonna need a bit more convincing, hell, she was already screaming bloody murder about the fact that they weren't already married "So, what's yer plan...The plan for both of you? Or rather, the three of you."

@lizziie @Scoobert @LilyNion @Sreeya @Everyone else

 

[Kasim Din]

Try as he might, Kasim couldn't keep his jaw from dropping open as Altair announced his news. On one hand, he wasn't surprised- Altair didn't always think with the head that was located between his horns- but even so, Kasim was glad that he had been sitting down when Altair had spoken.

Amidst the tumult of Ma's histrionics, Lalia's excitement, and the barrage of questions directed at Altair and the resigned girl sitting next to him, Kasim found himself feeling far from Dinthusiastic about the whole situation. His mouth was pressed into the knuckles of his clasped hands, and he stared at a butter knife on the table in hopes that it might cut through the swirling emotions in the room.

Shock. Discomfort. Pain. Surprise. Fear. Curiosity. Jealousy. Excitement. Shame. All these emotions, and more, spiked through the Force from his family, buffeting Kasim around like a sailboat in a hurricane. And as his discomfort grew, so to did his frustration, until his anger boiled over in one scathing word, practically growled in the direction of Altair.

"Hypocrite."

It was the worst thing he could think of to say to his older brother; someone who he had grown up admiring and even trying to emulate at times. Altair was successful, charismatic, and powerful. He was a king of a planet and Warmaster of an Empire, and in the eyes of all he could seemingly do no wrong. But it was becoming increasingly clear to Kasim that Altair played by his own rules, and as a result, what every Din treasured the most would be withheld from the unborn child: family. The gulf between Altair and Clove was simply too wide to be spanned by the tiny arms of a baby.

Kasim stood, his jaw clenched tightly around other words that threatened to escape him. He needed escape, too, and with dark thoughts brewing he turned and made his way towards the door.

@Sreeya @LilyNion @others

 

[Jabari Din]

Jabari couldn’t help but stare - burgundy eyes wide and jaw hanging open - when Altair dropped that bombshell announcement. A dozen different reasons that floated through the Tieflings mind during the journey to Eiattu, trying to piece together the reasoning behind the urgent summons back to the Palace. Even still, the Tiefling wouldn’t have guessed in a million years that someone getting knocked up was the actual reason they’d flown in from across the Galaxy.

He blinked a few times, managing to close his jaw at some point. Of course ‘Ma started screaming at the top of her lungs, while Laila made no attempt to contain her excitement at the situation. His older sisters didn’t seem surprised - but they always were the smarter ones amongst them.

Damnit Altair, didn’t anyone ever tell you to wrap it up?

He thought to himself. Not Jabari, of course. But that sounds like something Pa would advise, no matter how many times Ma screeched about waiting until marriage. The Tiefling began to wonder what he would do in that situation, a thought that made his stomach churn. He wasn’t ready for that shit - and if the mere thought gave Jabari the urge to run, he knew that Altair had likely considered it once or twice.

And then there was the realization.. He was going to be a fucking uncle. It immediately brought the smile back to his lips, fond memories of his own younger siblings flooding in. In a single moment, Jabari knew he was going to spoil that baby with every ounce of his being.

Just as Jabari began to formulate a response, Jabari glanced over to Kasim. He could practically feel the anger simmering off the boy - followed by the venomous words that came flying out of his mouth. They immediately caused Jabari’s burgundy eyes to narrow into thin daggers - fixed on the side of Kasim’s skull. Before his little brother knew it, he began to move from his seat.

Before Kasim managed to stand and storm out of the room, Jabari swung in without hesitation - backhanding Kasim across the head. Though it wasn’t the kind of Force-imbued strike that they were all used it, it would certainly leave him reeling and the site of impact stinging from the strike.

“The hell is the matter with you, boy?” Jabari practically hissed the words. “That ain’t helpin’ nobody - and ain’t none of this is about you to be up in arms about.” It was a subtle jab towards anyone else losing it, even if Jabari didn’t quite have the balls to say it to Ma. For all the ways that Jabari could be clueless and a doofus, his voice was as strict and stern as Pa. He wasn’t going to tolerate an outburst from his little brother, insensitive to the two soon-to-be parents and making a scene in the process.

“You don't ever walk out on this family.” Even if they weren’t getting married anytime soon, Altair was proving himself by his actions. He was stepping up to the plate and taking responsibility for his mistakes - being present for his unborn child and the family they all cherished. It was exactly the type of man that Altair was raised to be, and imparted a level of respect for his baby brother that no royal palace or Imperial throne would ever accomplish.

Only then did Jabari turn his attention to Clove and Altair, his tail still swishing about. “Can’t tell ya how happy I am for you both,” He said with a bit of a grin, genuine warmth bleeding through - offering Altair a clap on the shoulder. “I dunno the best way to help either of you but.. Whatever you need, just say the word and I’ll be there.” He nodded, jutting a chin towards his siblings. “We all will.”

 

[Altair Din]

They all reacted more or less how he expected. However, his older brothers surprised him the most. He had expected some snark or demeaning commentary, but they were supportive right away. Mama Din finally recovered from her near heart attack. There was a lull of silence during which Kasim (@SlagathorTheUnknown ) dropped his hateful word, his tone laced with venom. In the past, Altair would have reacted with an outburst. However, he had been forced to grow up quickly through his ascension, and he didn’t get riled as easily. He didn’t owe his little brother any explanation. He would understand one day. Still, it hurt Altair more than Kasim would ever know.

In the end, he had to say nothing because Jabari backhanded him in typical Din sibling style when someone was being stupid. As a family raised in combat, it wasn’t uncommon for things to devolve to fisticuffs quickly.

What did surprise him was Clove’s demeanor and the hurt on her face at the mention of a marriage. Altair had expected her to react with disgust or to recoil, but instead there was a deep sadness. The tiefling said nothing. He had shed his tears over her, and he had nothing to give anymore.

Altair reclaimed his dignified poise, picking up the pieces of his shattered confidence right away. The news was out, and that had been the toughest hurdle.

“We will both parent this child, but Clove and I will not marry,” He stated firmly. Altair’s gaze drilled into Mama Din’s. There must have been something definitive about his eyes because even she didn’t interject then and simply looked crestfallen, “Because I am King, the child cannot take my name without a marriage. However, I will grant her other titles of nobility should her mother choose. “

He finally turned to look at Clove, his expression difficult to read, “My family and I will support you however you need and you will always be welcome here and the Din family home on Bandomeer,” He gazed at her briefly then. Did she have anyone left? Her parents had been confirmed dead at the explosion site. Memories of cakes, laughter, beautiful dresses and a cheery birthday party flooded his mind.

Altair exhaled and looked away. No, he had closed all of those doors and nothing would open them again.

@LilyNion @Altaris @Versok @Scoobert @lizziie @LouJoVi

 

[Clove Vanhoop]

Clove hadn't expected the entire family to be so supportive, with the exception of Ma Din, who was recovering from a heart attack. On the other hand, the young Tiefling's reaction was more in line with what she had imagined and expected. She stared silently at the Tiefling next to her, not feeling like it was her place to do anything; she barely knew him. That exact sentiment became more difficult to bear when she noticed one of the older siblings backhanding the same Tiefling. The half-Annfyn's eyes widened slightly. Sure, Altair told her about it before, but actually seeing it in person? Family violence was so alien to her. Regardless, she remained silent and only observed the two.

The drama and the congratulations seemed to somewhat fade, and all eyes returned to Altair. The fact that he was unable to give the child his last name bothered her slightly. Sure, it made sense, and she hadn't expected it, but it meant that the child would have the surname Vanhoop. Which wasn't the most favorable name to have. But... if the child were to receive a title of nobility, it would be much easier to provide her with the necessary protection. Vahl wouldn't be able to get close. Not even at Yavin 8.

It'd be a choice that meant revealing to the galaxy that she was still alive, a thought so terrifying that she'd rather face Raze one-on-one. No, she had to think it over before making a final decision on a name. At the very least, nobility seemed to be a no-brainer.

For the first time since their encounter in this palace, Clove's eyes met Altair's. In that single sentence, he gave her permission to enter his home and visit his family with their child whenever she pleased. And yet, it'd never be her family. It was his family. The Din family's home. For months, she had tried to run from the truth. But, in the face of an actual family, she couldn't run. There was no one left except two close friends. Even the Jedi who summoned her back home couldn't look at her without passing judgment. There was no family to come home to, no birthdays, no endless dress fittings and no advice on where to place a bandage. All that was left was a smoldering ruin and chiseled tombstones.

Those Tieflings and friends were all the child would have.

Clove's eyes flashed with pain for a split second before fading into a wave of relief. "Thank you very much. I'm glad she'll have a loving family." She finally took her gaze away from Altair to look around the room at all the siblings and their parents. "I also want to thank all of you for your support. I'll never be able to put into words how much it means to me. Especially since I'm a stranger to all of you." She gave them a faint, but genuine, smile.

---

tag @Sreeya @Altaris @Scoobert @Versok @lizziie @LouJoVi @SlagathorTheUnknown ​

 

[Kasim Din]

Kasim sensed Jabari moving in and as his older brother raised his hand, the orange Tiefling involuntarily flinched. The blow landed, as it always did, whenever his older siblings or parents decided that he'd done something wrong. The fact that it wasn't imbued with the Force like it often was didn't make it any less hurtful; but still, something gave way.

The void that had been steadily gnawing away at him since his exposure to the Dark Side nexus on Korriban finally caved.

Kasim was angry. Angry at the way that Altair had adopted Ma's scathing glare, angry at the way that Jabari spoke with Pa's hard tone and struck with Pa's raised fist. He was angry as he realized that Emir's introversion was as much of a defense mechanism against those occurrences as Lalia's bubbliness was. He was angry as he realized that his older siblings- Altair, Jabari, and the others- had also had to adapt somehow. And where had his parents learned how to discipline them? Had Ma and Pa been hit when they were his age?

He was angry as he listened to his brothers and sisters welcome an unborn child and a single mother into a cycle of abuse.

For all the anger Kasim felt inside his lower lip still trembled as he spoke, ignoring Jabari's words and looking at Clove. "Do you really want to raise your baby in a family that..." he trailed off and made a loose fist, leaving others to fill in the blanks. Doubtless they'd try to explain that he'd deserved it, or that such blows built character and that he'd be thankful later, or how it had prepared him for the "real galaxy", or even that physical punishment showed how much they cared. Being hit was part of being a Din, he'd told himself. But the fact that his parents didn't even bother to step in when such an occurrence happened in front of a stranger showed just how normalized this had become.

"He's right" he said, shooting a glance at Jabari. "You don't ever walk out on this family." His gaze settled back on Clove, a yellow ring in his eyes edging closer to his pupils for the briefest of moments.

"So you should leave while you still can."

@LilyNion @Sreeya @Altaris @Versok @lizziie @LouJoVi @anyoneelseImissed

 

[Khalid Din]

The Tiefling cowboy didn't quite expect what came after: Kasim's harsh words, Jabari jumping in like an old brother with good intentions...but very bad results. Khalid could understand where his little brother was coming from, at least to a certain extend, being at home with the family could get overwhelming, that's why he barely came back even though he loved all of them so much...But he couldn't agree with the way he was going on about it.

This was an outburst that should've happened, but not here, not right now, not when Clove had come as a guest and asked something so important of them. It was not the time for any of it, "Kasim." Khalid simply referred to his brother, his eyes, however, were set on Jabari, telling with his gaze that he should not press on, not another backhand, it was not helping. That was the only reason Khalid ever jumped into discussions like this, usually he let the older sisters or pa or ma take care of it while he weaseled out of the responsability that was acting like a brother, but he knew the Din treatment wasn't quite it for this.

"I understand where ya are coming from, I do, we are far from perfect...But you should count yer blessings" His tone of voice was not quite as stern as the one from their parents or the other older siblings, but it was far more serious than his usual "Ya realize who ya are telling that to?" He said, his finger pointing at Clove "Ya realize what happened ta her? Or did ya forget what happened to the former leader of star guardians? ya really think she is better off on her own without our support?" Khalid asked, he had seen many people alone in the Outer Rim when they needed it the most, Kasim was telling her to raise a child without a family at all, reject what little support she had searched for.

His eyes went back to Clove, letting a small sigh before looking at the rest of the people here, god, did he hate trying to talk sense "Once the baby is born, we will help Altair and Clove raise them HOWEVER they want" Khalid said, driving the word "however" home, trying to make Kasim think that the same mistakes would not be repeated "They are who will decide how ta raise them, no matter how any of us butt in" This was an indirect jab at his parents, as much as he loved them, he 100% expected them to try and force them to marry or some bullshit like that. "But we will help, promise." He said, looking at Altair and then Clove.

@SlagathorTheUnknown @LilyNion @Sreeya @Altaris @Everyone else