Ask Onderon The Important Things

[Jaikus Thorne]

Jaikus danced, languid and free with every roll and sway of his body, and the world all around him was little more than a blur to behold. All it bleeding together into a kaleidoscope of colors and sounds, leaving Emryc was the sole figure of clarity among it all – effortlessly capturing every ounce of the Axxilan’s attention, even as the crowds dispersed and began to watch the Axxilan move. It was a performance that drew quite a bit of staring from patrons, and just as many dirty-looks and side-eyes from the graceful, lithe women who moved around the dancefloor.

Naturally, all of that was completely unnoticed by Jaikus. Emerald eyes remained, as they always were, upon the one person that truly mattered.

Grasping onto the front of his partner’s shirt, Jaikus closed that last bit of distance and captured the half-Sephi’s lips for a teasingly brief moment – savoring the taste and the feeling of the half-Sephi’s hot breath before abruptly breaking away, continuing their back and forth game. The Axxilan felt the knee that drew up his inner thigh, eliciting an almost involuntary shift of the Axxilan’s hips before he turned around once more, his back pressed against Emryc and held together as if by some invisible tether. Jaikus once more began to gyrate and roll to the new music, falling back into his previous movements before Emryc abruptly stepped back – catching the Axxilan entirely off-guard.

Jaikus couldn’t help but stare in complete silence, his own movements gradually coming to a halt as he focused upon what Emryc was doing. For all the ways his partner was rigid and bulky, there was something undeniably hypnotic about the way the half-Sephi moved, and it left the Axxilan gawking like an idiot the entire time. With every shimmy of Emryc’s shoulders and the sensual rolling of his wrists, it felt as if the half-Sephi had cast a spell over the Axxilan, pulling just the right strings that left Jaikus wrapped completely around his partner’s finger.

Emerald eyes followed when Emryc moved in closer, suddenly dropping down to a squat in front of Jaikus. He felt the hands that firmly grasped onto his hips and drew him in close, and the Axxilan couldn’t help the way he exhaled sharply in response. It was a taste of his own medicine, and it proved just as effective as the half-Sephi likely intended.

The sight of those yellow-tinted silvers staring up at him sent renewed waves of heat through Jaikus’ body, eliciting an involuntary shift of his body. “Fuck..” He muttered the expletive under his breath, though it would’ve been clear enough for his partner’s sensitive hearing. His mind briefly wandered back to moments they had shared back on Ship, and he couldn’t help the familiar tinge of bright red spread across every inch of his face, and he could feel his heart pounding like a drum against the confines of his chest. From his angle, Emryc would be able to very clearly see the effect he was having on the Axxilan – making the entire situation just a bit more uncomfortable for a man who specialized in wearing tight clothes.

Jaikus let out a shuttered breath as Emryc rose back to his feet, the feeling of the man’s hot breath against his torso eliciting goosebumps across his skin. He couldn’t help but grin when Emryc spoke, immediately leaning in to capture the half-Sephi’s lips for a much longer embrace than before. He hooked his ankle around Emryc’s thigh, keeping their bodies close together as they spun. Luckily, their position made the Axxilan’s rather uncomfortable situation very less obvious to the patrons still watching them.

“Now who’s tormenting?” He muttered against the half-Sephi’s lips. Just as he started to pull away, the Axxilan latched onto his partner’s bottom lip – nibbling against his flesh for a moment before releasing entirely. His hands gradually shifted into place once more – one resting against the back of Emryc’s neck while the other rested along the man’s mid-back – as they began moving to the music.

Several minutes would pass, and Jaikus continued their dance together – hypnotically swaying his hips and grinding his body against the half-Sephi, moving in perfect unison with each other across the dancefloor.

After a few moments more, Jaikus finally retook the lead in their dance, spinning them as a unit as they traveled the room. He gradually lead them back to the edge of the dancefloor as the song and their dance came to a close. Still wrapped around his partner, the Axxilan leaned up to briefly capture the man’s lips yet again – lingering there for a moment before grasping Emryc’s hand and taking a step backwards.

“Come on,” He grinned, “I think we’ve earned another drink.” There was a clear sheen of sweat to the Axxilan’s bronze skin, and his chest rose and fell with heavy heaves. As much as he adored it, even Jaikus couldn’t deny needing to catch his breath after a while of their dancing. Grasping onto his partner’s hand, Jaikus began to lead them back towards the bar – subtly using his other hand to finally make his situation a bit less uncomfortable after that squat-maneuver from his partner.

As soon as they arrived back at the bar, Jaikus waved a hand towards the man behind the counter to order another round of drinks. With that he leaned in to plant a kiss to the half-Sephi’s cheek, brushing his hand against the man’s cheek before adjusting the sunglasses back over his silver eyes. “You’ll have to forgive me if I want you all to myself.” He flashed a grin, though it was clear he was being entirely serious. If there was any place in the room that Emryc would be recognized, it was sitting stationary at a bar where people could get a good look at him.

“So,” He leaned back against the bar, smirking up at the half-Sephi. “Any other destinations in mind for the night?” The Axxilan reached down to find his partner’s hand once again, gently rubbing his thumb against the top of the man’s hand. “Wherever you want to go or do, babe.”

@Sreeya

 

[Emryc Thorne]

Emryc was thankful for the break, especially as he didn’t like being hot and sweaty and being around other sweaty people in close proximity for too long. He allowed his partner to lead him back to the bar, his wide and large frame cutting a path through the crowds. Emryc had no qualms with elbow checking men, women or anyone that stood in his way, trucking through the masses like a slow rushing Huttballer.

The half Sephi grinned at Jaikus when he leaned in to kiss his cheek before popping the shades back on. Emryc grabbed the seat Jaikus was sitting on, dragging it a bit closer, “You’ll always have me to yourself as much as you please,” He leaned in to steal a quick kiss before turning to order himself a drink.

The half Sephi was silent for a moment as he thought of ideas, “There’s a winter festival in the main plaza district of Iziz,” He said as he looked over at Jaikus, “You know, the one with the opening ceremony the King invited me to that I ditched because I had a very sexy man sitting on my stomach?”

It didn’t take them long to finish up and exit back into their speeder. After a short ride, they were dropped off at the plaza that had pedestrians wandering all around. Emryc, as usual, walked around to open Jaikus’ door and let him out, extending his arm for the other man to take.

There were bright lights and Life Day decorations everywhere. Groups of people could be heard singing and there were stalls lining the paths that sold warm drinks and food. Up ahead there was a small fair with a variety of rides and shows. Emryc slowly walked along the main path, looking around at the sights.

“Way too early to be doing Life Day festivals..” Emryc grumbled under his breath as he watched the lightshows and the street performers. At some point the Half Sephi adjusted his arm to entwine his fingers with Jaikus as they walked.

“If I had my way, I would go live on Hoth,” He declared as he walked. Wisps of his breath puffed out into a cloud as the night grew cooler. There was a definite chill in the air, and it was clear Emryc was having a great time. He looked up as a few flurries began to fall, swirling through the air to herald the arrival of snow.

Emryc turned to mention something to Jaikus and blinked a few times. Without a word, he paused and took off his coat, walking around to place it on Jaikus. Since he was much bigger than the other man, the Axxilan was able to wear it above his own coat. He put up the hood as well, adjusting it so it fit Jaikus comfortably. Emryc was left in his button down, but the half Sephi looked entirely comfortable. Emryc wrapped an arm around his partner, who now looked like a marshmallow, pulling the man close. Emryc said nothing about it, venturing through the festival.

“Any foods or drinks you want to try?” He asked, pointing to the various stalls that served warm, chocolatey beverages or other sugary snacks that looked horrible to Emryc but likely delicious to Jaikus.

@Altaris

 

[Jaikus Thorne]

There was a wide, ridiculously cheesy smile on Jaikus’ face just then – a few characteristic giggles escaping from the Axxilan when Emryc grabbed his seat and tugged so they were seat closer together. It was that closeness that Jaikus could never truly get enough of, and even that small gesture filled the man with delight.

Taking full advantage of the improved position, Jaikus leaned across his stool and laid his head against the half-Sephi, letting out a satisfied little hum when Emryc spoke and leaned in to steal a quick kiss. “In that case, I won’t feel bad being a bit greedy.” He grinned a bit. “I’m sure you’re aides will have it out for me soon enough.”

The Axxilan ordered himself a drink after that, glancing back to Emryc when he suggested the winter festival. He couldn’t help but smile a bit wider when the half-Sephi mentioned the opening ceremony and the precise reasons why he skipped that entire event. “Well, that does sound a bit distracting.” He quipped, giving his partner’s hand a little squeeze.

A few minutes passed, and the pair gradually made their way back into their speeder – promptly back driving through the streets of Iziz. Night had truly set in by the time that they left the club, and it brought a renewed winter chill to the air. While Emryc might’ve enjoyed the cold, Jaikus simply wasn’t accustomed to the chill and quickly attempted to get warm – which, in this case, involved cranking the heater to full blast, flicking on the ass-warmers and snuggling his head against his partner.

Jaikus stepped out of the speeder once his door was opened, leaning up to plant a kiss to the half-Sephi’s cheek before taking his arm. Emerald eyes casually flicked between the festive lights and variety of stalls, taking in the scent of warm spices in the air and the gentle singing of festivalgoers. Of course, the air was currently filled with the karaoke version of perhaps the most infamous Life Day song of all time.

Despite the warm, happy smile that brushed against his lips, Jaikus couldn’t help way he immediately started to shiver – his cheeks turning rosy from the cold. Hailing from a naturally hot planet, the Axxilan had always been a wimp for the cold – something Emryc likely would’ve figured out by now. The chill was such that it crept right beneath his coat, and the tightly-fitting clothes he wore underneath – shockingly – did next to nothing in terms of retaining warmth.

Naturally, Jaikus simply tugged his partner a bit closer – clearly attempting to steal the heat from the larger half-Sephi.

Jaikus blinked a few times when the half-Sephi spoke again, mentioning the inappropriate timing of the festival. “I don’t know what you mean,” He huffed, glancing back at the half-Sephi. “As soon as Hallowe’en is over, it is officially acceptable to start playing Life Day music and having festivals.” He couldn’t help but smile a bit wider, allowing his mind to wander for a moment.

“While it isn’t quite the same as this, I always loved the Life Day festivities back on Axxila,” He said quietly, walking with his partner as they passed by the stalls and attractions. “It seemed like everywhere you looked, everything from corporate buildings to penthouses were decorated with seasonal lights. All of the trees were artificial, of course, but they still put them out and decorated them.”

He grinned, glancing back at his partner as he rambled on. “There is a park in the Government District, not far from where I lived, that hosted festivals every year. Always had the largest – fake – Life Day Tree you’ve ever seen." He paused for a moment, thinking back. “My family and I did quite a few portraits in front of those trees.”

Jaikus practically winced when Emryc mentioned living on Hoth. “How are you not freezing?” He leaned his head against Emryc’s shoulder, shaking his head a bit at the notion. While the Axxilan was clearly enjoying himself, the thought of living in some perpetually cold climate was the stuff of nightmares.

He paused, turning to face the half-Sephi when the man started to remove his coat. He blinked a few times, a faint red tint burning against his cheeks when Emryc proceeded to wrap him in the oversized, warm coat. There was something undeniably tender about that gesture, and it brough that ridiculously cheeky smile back to the Axxilan’s lips.

Despite looking very much like a marshmallow, Jaikus immediately looked quite a bit more comfortable – snuggling his head against his partner’s chest. The Axxilan was basically swimming in the coat, while his thick curls peaked out just beyond the brim of the hood. At one point or another, the Axxilan began to hum along to the Life Day music – warning Emryc that he’d likely be hearing that for the rest of the evening.

Jaikus paused for a moment as they passed one of the stalls. “One moment,” He muttered towards his partner before stepping towards the stall, flashing the vendor a grin. The Axxilan proceeded to pull out his wallet, handing the Onderonian vendor a few bills with Emryc’s face on them before snatching his prize. Looking almost giddy, the Axxilan returned to his partner’s side – keeping whatever it was tucked behind his back until he was once more wrapped in the man’s arms.

At that moment, without a moment of hesitation, Jaikus reached up plopped a very festive Life Day hat onto Emryc’s head – tucking his fluted ears into the knitted confines of the hat. He took a moment to inspect the hat, flicking the Pompom to the other side before giving a nod. “You can’t convince me your ears don’t get a bit cold,” He quipped playfully, flashing his partner a grin.

Satisfied that his partner wasn’t going to lose an ear to the chill, Jaikus’ attention was to the stalls filled with chocolatey beverages and sickeningly sweet treats. While the Axxilan constantly kept in great shape, he couldn’t deny having quite a bit more of a sweet tooth than his partner.

He tugged Emryc towards one of the stall – this one serving a festive drink made with cream, eggs and some unknown liquor, alongside a variety of warm, freshly baked pastries. After a quick exchange of crowns once more, Jaikus handed Emryc one of each. “I was promised best behavior. And it has eggs, so there - good source of protein.” He smirked.

With that, the Axxilan took a sip from his mug, blinking a few times before glancing back down at his mug. “..Nope. No amount of alcohol makes this better.”

@Sreeya

 

[Emryc Thorne]

Emryc stared blankly at Jaikus as he gave a very long explanation for why Life Day decor was perfectly acceptable after Hallowe’en. The half Sephi said nothing on this topic, his neutral and stoic disposition reminding him that people were perfectly at liberty to be objectively dead wrong. Naturally, Jaikus knew Emryc well enough to recognize that look on his face as the half Sephi stared at him in silence.

He listened intently as Jaikus described Life Day back on Axxila. Emryc took in sight of the Life Day tree looming ahead of them, decorated very brightly with ornaments and lights. The half Sephi glanced over at his partner when he recalled his Axxila memories, catching the subtle ways he smiled and his eyes lit up at the memory. Emryc’s own features softened as a result, their fingers still entwined as they walked, “I want to spend every Life Day with you,” He blurted out before he could stop himself. His ears promptly swiveled and his face took on a tinge of pink that had nothing to do with the cold. Emryc cleared his throat, staring pointedly at nothing for a moment in silence, visibly embarrassed.

Emryc kept his eyes trained ahead, gazing at the decorated tree ahead of them as his breath came out in a fog. The half Sephi eyed Jaikus curiously when he stepped away. Emryc waited patiently, hands in his pockets, trying to tune out that obnoxious song that played on repeat this time of year. A few people slowed down as they walked past him, silently attempting to figure out if it was Emryc or not. One girl in the distance began to make a beeline towards him, but that was right when Jaikus returned, stopping her determined charge in its tracks.

Emyrc stared at his partner as he put the hat on his head, the surprised look on his face priceless. He blinked a few times, “Babe…” He decided he wasn’t going to argue when Jaikus was smiling like that, and he simply smiled in return, keeping the ridiculous hat on. Emryc once again held his partner’s hand, his heart sinking a bit when Jaikus led them towards the drink stand that smelled absolutely disgusting. It was a holiday drink he avoided like the plague, especially since it was likely a million calories. And it tasted like fermented vomit.

The half Sephi stared at Jaikus in complete unamusement for a moment before finally accepting the ‘treats’, careful to avoid touching them, “So you were..” He muttered dryly, kicking himself for ever promising such a thing. Emryc took a sip of the drink and his face scrunched up in disgust at once. He saw Jaikus make the same face and there was look of betrayal on Emryc’s face as a result, “Why did you make us both suffer if you hate it too?!” He scowled at his partner. He looked thoughtful for a moment before leaning in to give Jaikus a quick kiss on the lips, “Hmm, that makes it better,” Emryc took a sip and then leaned in for a quick kiss again, deciding that a kiss as a chaser made the drink tolerable. And it was an excuse to keep stealing kisses from the man he loved.

After a moment, they began to walk again and Emryc was over half done with his infernal drink. He pointedly hadn’t touched the pastries yet, hoping Jaikus wouldn’t notice if he discreetly dumped them in a bin somewhere. Through it all, Jaikus kept humming that horrid song and Emryc silently walked alongside him, longing for his earbuds again.

“Do you want to get on that ferris wheel? We’ll be able to see all the lights and the city,” He said after a while, hoping to make Jaikus stop singing the stupid song. He began to walk towards the giant wheel in question, ecstatic for the prospect of getting far high above the terrible music playing all around them.

@Altaris

 

[Jaikus Thorne]

There was no stopping the way Jaikus’ face lit up like one of those Life Day trees, genuine warmth and affection bleeding into his tone the precise moment he began to linger on memories from Axxila. They were memories that replayed to vividly in his mind, a sense of warmth and nostalgia washing over him. Whatever their fates had been, those memories of his family were things that Jaikus held near his heart and cherished dearly.

Jaikus paused just then, immediately glancing back to his partner when the man abruptly blurted out the words. Jaikus clearly noted the pink tinge to his cheeks, alongside the clear embarrassment etched into the half-Sephi’s features. A warm smile quickly worked its way onto the Axxilan’s face at that moment, affection burning bright within those warm emeralds. He brought a hand up to Emryc’s cheek, turning the half-Sephi back towards him at the same time he leaned up to capture the man’s lips.

“I want to spend every Life Day with you,” He muttered softly against the man’s lips, lingering against that familiar embrace that he craved whenever they were apart. “And every other day I can get.”

“And,” He muttered, touching his forehead to his partner. “I want to get a portrait done. Just the two of us, before Life Day comes and goes.” He declared, finally drawing from their embrace and turning back to continue walking through the festive setting. “A portrait of me and the man I love.”

Luckily, Jaikus didn’t notice the girl approaching Emryc – far too giddy to focus on anything else. He flashed that ridiculous, goofy smile as he planted the hat onto his partner’s head – adjusting it to fit over those fluted ears. He clearly noted way the half-Sephi began to protest, only to smile and decide to keep the hat on. As they began to walk, Jaikus leaned back over, planting a quick kiss to his partner’s cheek. “I happen to think it looks nice on my very sexy man.” He whispered, flashing the half-Sephi a smile before continuing ahead – making a beeline for those pastries and eggnog.

While the

chocolatey pastries weren’t half bad, the Axxilan couldn’t hide his distain for the eggnog – reaffirming his previous opinions about the nasty-ass drink. He blinked a few times when Emryc called him out, staring back at that look of betrayal. “I thought it might be good this time!” He huffed loudly, narrowing his eyes back onto his mug – as if debating taking another drink.

He was completely cut off from his eggnog-related spiral when Emryc leaned in to give him a quick kiss on the lips. The sudden gesture left Jaikus completely caught off-guard and dazed – a comically stupid expression left on his face. By the second kiss, a smile had worked its way onto the Axxilan’s lips, and by the third, he actively pressed into that familiar embrace – not seeming to mind the taste of eggnog as he kissed the man he loved.

A few moments passed, and Jaikus was back to humming that horrible Life Day song, happily munching into his pastry. While the Axxilan wasn’t a terrible singer, the man wasn’t about to win any awards for his melodic voice – and that song itself likely had started to become like nails on a chalkboard after the hundredth repetition. Of course, Jaikus was having a fantastic time and was completely ignorant to the torment he was inflicting upon his partner.

Instead, Jaikus glanced back towards Emryc – spotting the pastry he was pointedly trying to ignore out of existence. “Will you take a bite – a single bite – of that pastry if I give you another kiss?” He grinned up at the half-Sephi, his voice overtly playful. His gaze lingered for a moment before he simply shook his head. “Or maybe just give me another kiss and I’ll let you ditch it.” He giggled softly. "Or you could give me another kiss for no reason at all."

The Axxilan briefly broke contact with his partner, spinning around so that he was walking backwards in front of Emryc – turned so that he was facing the man. There was an affection smile on his lips just then, emerald eyes glinting with warmth. “One of these days, I am going to actually make you something you’ll like. Something nice.” He declared confidently, keeping his attention fixated back onto his partner.

Which, of course, meant that Jaikus wasn’t paying attention while walking backwards.

His smile lingered for a few seconds more before suddenly vanishing – replaced by a comical look of surprise as his heel caught against a lip on the ground – causing the Axxilan to stumble backwards. His arms went out to his sides and flailed wildly – looking even more ridiculous in that coat – as the marshmallow that was Jaikus collapsed into the snowbank behind him. For a solid ten seconds, Jaikus could do nothing but lay there against the snow – staring up at his partner who’d seen the entire thing happen. His cheeks turned a bit more red than before, visibly embarrassed by the entire situation.

After a few more moments, Jaikus abruptly pushed himself back to his feet – brushing the snow off his clothes. “Ferris wheel it is.” He cleared his throat – once more wrapping his arms around Emryc as they moved in that direction. While pretending like nothing just happened.

Jaikus walked alongside his partner, gradually making their way towards the giant wheel in question. A few crowns were handed to a particularly moody looking Rodian attendant, and with that, the pair were allowed into one of the multitude of carts.

He strapped himself in, scooting close to Emryc as the wheel began to rotate once more – slowly lifting back into the air. “Ever been on one of these?” He grinned, glancing over to his partner.

@Sreeya

 

[Emryc Thorne]

Between Jaikus mentioning he wanted to get portraits done and the comment about the hat, Emryc was stunned into silence. The half Sephi quietly walked alongside his partner, face bright red and with a complicated expression on. Unfortunately for them both, Emryc was a bit slow on the uptake when it came to relationships. He spent the entire walk wondering how it would be possible to spend every day with Jaikus. Did that mean syncing up their travel schedules? Did it mean assigning his public appearances accordingly? The most obvious answer completely eluded him.

He was pulled out of his thoughts when Jaikus called him out on his lack of pastry eating. Emryc’s ears moved the slightest bit beneath the hat, and he had a sheepish look on his face. However, he recovered quickly enough, tugging his partner close to kiss him. He took his time then, standing right there in the middle of the crowds and not caring who saw. Emryc savored the taste of Jaikus’ lips, and he certainly warmed them up from how cold they had gotten. He pulled back after a while, touching their foreheads.

“If I recall correctly,” He murmured softly against his lips, “The agreement was that I get to kiss you whenever I want as long as I kiss you more often,” Emryc smiled then, recalling that moment from the hospital. That day seemed like forever ago now.

Emryc actually did end up taking a bite of the pastry after that, though he looked promptly disgusted. It tasted like a million calories, and he tossed it as they passed by a bin. He looked up as Jaikus mentioned making something, “Make me what? A Hat?” It didn’t even occur to Emryc that the Axxilan could mean food. He didn’t know the other man to know his way around a kitchen at all, and honestly guessed his skills were probably worse than his own which was a feat.

The half Sephi’s reflexes kicked in when Jaikus began to fall back, and he quickly grasped him by the front of his coat while the man was angled back. However, he recalled how Jaikus made them both try that horrific drink and he casually let him go on purpose, making him topple into the snow, "Serves you right for that nog shit!" Emryc chuckled to himself, walking over to scoop up a pile of snow to dump it on him, “Now this brings back some memories!” He said rather brightly as he dumped the pile on Jaikus - possibly one of the most endearing memories from Telos.

Emryc helped Jaikus up in the end, stealing a few more cold kisses as he dusted the snow off his partner. He’d toss in a few extra kisses if Jaikus looked especially grumpy, “Oh don’t look at me like that. That’s probably the day you started wanting me,” He grinned smugly at that, walking with him to the ferris wheel.

He looked over the cityscape as they began to rise, the cool air brushing against their skin. Emryc had to grin at his question, “Once,” He said, “I used to drive around nobles, as you know. One time I went to pick up a Lady and it turned out to be Darth Malicia in disguise. She was tired of her stuffy party so she made me drive her to a fair. We got on a ferris wheel then,” He paused for a moment as he reflected on the memory, the smile fading a bit. Emryc tightened his grip on Jaikus, pulling him close and kissing him on the cheek, “I’m going to be miserable on Axxila, won’t I?” He asked after a moment of rising through the brisk air that he was relishing.

@Altaris

 

[Jaikus Thorne]

For just a moment, Jaikus completely forgot where they were standing. All of the crowds, festive lights and music muted into the background when Emryc tugged him close once more and captured his lips – lingering there for as long as he could. Jaikus savored the taste of his partner’s lips and the man’s breath against his own, filling him with warmth enough to fight back the winter chill.

It was an embrace that Jaikus had come to cherish and crave ever since that first time on Keldooine, and it was something that made being separated from each other so agonizing.

Jaikus grinned when Emryc spoke, snuggling his forehead against his partner. “I remember.” He muttered, proving his point by leaning back in for another brief kiss. That day seemed like a lifetime ago, and yet the Axxilan remembered it as vividly as if it were yesterday.

He couldn’t help but arch a brow, amusement dancing across his features the moment Emryc finally took a bite of that chocolatey pastry. He clearly noted the disgusted look on his partner’s face and responded with a faint roll of his eyes. For all the ways that the Axxilan was overdramatic, Emryc looked as if he’d bitten into something downright foul – all while Jaikus was happily munching away. Nevertheless, he didn’t’ protest when the half-Sephi eventually ditched the damn thing.

“Sadly, I don’t think there are Gamorran Noodles served on Life Day, traditionally.”

He blinked a few times when the half-Sephi spoke again, questioning what Jaikus actually intended to make. While the Axxilan had traditionally been a disaster in the kitchen – and quite frankly, still was – much of the time they spent separated had been filled with attempts to rectify that fact. Ever since that day on Ship, Jaikus had been determined to cook for his partner, and his conviction had yet to waver in that.

He briefly opened his mouth, about to clarify what he meant, only to quickly close it again as playful grin flashing across his features. Satisfied to keep it all a surprise, Jaikus said nothing as he continued to walk backwards – up until he fell, of course.

Profound relief flashed across Jaikus’ features when Emryc reached out and caught him by the jacket, saving him from collapsing into the snowbank. Of course, all that relief turned into raw betrayal when the half-Sephi let him go – allowing the Axxilan sink several inches into the white powder.

“EMRYC!” He groaned, wincing as the snow was dumped on top of him. Despite his protests and attempted to maintain a grumpy expression, the Axxilan couldn’t help the grin that gradually started to spread across his lips once more – the softest giggles escaping from his lips. His mind was immediately transported back to that day on Telos, that single memory holding so much significance to him now.

Jaikus narrowed his eyes slightly when Emryc hoisted him up, though the intense grump melted asoon the half-Sephi began to shower him with kisses. His smile tugged a bit wider when Emryc made his smug remark. “And have wanted you every minute since.” As if to enunciate that point, Jaikus leaned in once more to steal yet another kiss from his partner, gripping firmly to hold him there for a few seconds longer than usual.

“Just as you did, when you first heard me laughing like an idiot.” He raised a brow, grinning smugly before following his partner to the ferris wheel.

The Axxilan couldn't help the involuntary shiver that ran up his spine, the air growing especially chilly as they began to rise from the ground. Jaikus snuggled close and comfortably laying his head against the half-Sephi's shoulder for warmth - despite already looking like an oversized marshmallow with curly hair.

Jaikus listened quietly when Emryc spoke, clearly noting the way that the half-Sephi gripped him tighter than the topic turned to Malicia. In response, the Axxilan brought his free hand and capture's his partner's - weaving their fingers tightly together. He returned the kiss to the cheek, followed by showering his partner with a series of feathery kisses on his neck and cheek. "I am looking forward to taking you there." He muttered softly. "To show you my home, and where I grew up." As the ferris wheel began to reach its highest point, Jaikus raised their conjoined hands and gestured out to the horizon - panning over the glittering cityscape. "It isn't quite like a treetop restaurant, but the upper levels are especially beautiful after sunset. Nothing ever truly sleeps, and the city truly comes to life after dark."

He smirked, amusement dancing across his features. "But yes - you're probably going to be absolutely miserable. The Axxilan climate isn't exactly conducive to your preference for freezing your ass off at each and every opportunity, so you'll need to dress accordingly." He quipped.

Jaikus was silent for a moment. The ferris wheel remained fixated in place for a while, allowing them a stunning view of the city for a few minutes before it would begin lowering to the ground. "You know, I do still have some family back home. Distant relatives - aunts, uncles and the like."

@Sreeya

 

[Emryc Thorne]

Emryc returned Jaikus’ smug grin with one of his own when he admitted to desiring him back on Telos, “Maybe..but you really had my attention since I saw you bend over in those tight, star printed briefs,” He winked at the other man, revealing that he had actually caught an eyeful that day he pretended to stare at a wall and be oblivious. He smacked his partner on the rear to emphasize his point before making their way to the ferris wheel.

The half Sephi’s otherwise sour mood from memories of what happened to Malicia melted away with each kiss from Jaikus. He leaned towards the other man, tilting his face to capture his lips and tenderly enjoy the moment while they were high up in the air. He kept an arm wrapped around Jaikus, glancing over at the views as he spoke. Holding his partner like this and in this moment brought him a sense of warmth that he couldn’t explain. There were many things he couldn’t explain when it came to Jaikus - things he thought he understood because he had been in love before. And yet every single thing was so different with this man, and he was surprised everyday with how much he wanted to weave Jaikus into his life and future plans.

Emryc’s line of thinking was dashed by the Axxilan’s last comments, the words causing the half Sephi to turn and regard him with visible surprise in the normally stoic features, “You...want me to meet your family?” He blurted out quietly as the ferris wheel began to descend and fill them with that sense of weightlessness. His ears shifted slightly, and he looked slightly nervous, blinking as he looked off at nothing.

“What if they don’t think I’m good enough?” He muttered quietly under his breath, suddenly looking concerned. For all his confidence and galactic fame, the thought of being considered an acceptable partner for Jaikus in his family’s eyes sounded suddenly insurmountable. Facing Jedi Councilors, Jedi Grandmasters, the Galactic Senate and the ghost of Kravos combined sounded easier than facing Jaikus’ family. If they were even a fraction of the level of fiery as his partner, Emryc was doomed. Especially if he was going to be sweating profusely and being miserable on top of it.

@Altaris

 

[Jaikus Thorne]

Jaikus couldn’t help going a bit wide eyed at that moment, staring at the half-Sephi when the man made a remark of his own. For months, the Axxilan had thought Emryc was – somehow – completely oblivious to him very purposefully bending over back at the camp on Telos. His lips tugged a bit wider when Emryc playfully smacked his rear, bringing the faintest flush of red to his bronze complexion – one that very clearly had nothing to do with the cold.

Even as he spoke, the Axxilan involuntarily let out a little exhale when Emryc wrapped an arm around him – visibly relaxing. Jaikus instinctively leaned his torso comfortably against his partner, melting into the half-Sephi’s larger frame. It didn’t seem to matter how cold it was above the city, for that simple gesture seemed to fight off the cold like no layer of clothing could. It didn’t seem to matter how often Jaikus found himself snuggled against his partner, for he cherished every second of it – wishing to make them last for a long as possible.

He snuggled his head against the half-Sephi’s shoulder, using him as a cushion as he stared out to the view ahead of them. Having Emryc’s arms around him brought Jaikus a sense of comfort that, even now, he couldn’t quite put into words. It was a sense of belonging, a sense of home, that was absent whenever they were separated, and it left the Axxilan wishing to shorten that separation whenever he had the opportunity.

Jaikus blinked a few times, lifting his head when Emryc blurted out a response to his last comment. He could count on a hand how many times he’d seen his partner visible nervous, and couldn’t help but look slightly surprised by the sudden shift from stoicism. Emerald eyes went a bit wider when the half-Sephi muttered under his breath, questioning whether he would be accepted by the Axxilan’s family.

Of course, Emryc’s fears weren’t entirely unfounded. Not only was Jaikus’ fiery temperament something of a family trait, but his kin were a notoriously stuck up and snobbish bunch. Their loss in wealth had done nothing to temper their noble demeanors, making Jaikus look entirely down-to-earth by comparison.

None of that seemed to matter to Jaikus, though.

After a moment of silence, Jaikus brought a hand to cup his partner’s stubbled cheek, bringing the half-Sephi’s gaze back meet those unwavering emeralds. There was a look of complete confidence in the Axxilan’s eyes, tilting his chin up ever-so-slightly. “I do.”

He leaned in, capturing the half-Sephi’s lips for a few moments. The ferris wheel continued to lower to the ground, the scenic view of the city gradually fading from view as their private cart dipped below some of the closer buildings. “You,” He broke from the embrace, tenderly pressing his forehead to his partner. “Are the thing that matters most to me. I love you, Emryc Thorne, and I want you to meet my family and for them to see just how much you mean to me.” He leaned in for another kiss before drawing back a bit more. Without a word, Jaikus’ hands shifted to adjust the half-Sephi’s collar, tugging it a bit to fix it into place before once more locking eyes with those familiar silvers.

“You are my partner, Emy. My family will see that you are more than good enough.” With that, Jaikus finally laid his head back onto the half-Sephi’s shoulder, humming softly under his breath. The ferris wheel began to approach the ground, gradually moving back towards it starting position.

A smile tugging wide across Jaikus lips as he glanced up towards Emryc, a bit of amusement dancing in those emeralds. “And if by chance one of my centuries-old aunts happens to disapprove? I have no problems telling them to fuck right off.”

@Sreeya

 

[Emryc Thorne]

Emryc was surprised at his own behavior, and there was a flush to his face when he realized Jaikus heard him. He turned his head to look at his partner as he spoke, a smile forming on his face as he returned the kiss and pressed their foreheads, “I love you,” He repeated quietly, pulling his partner close to his chest as they began to descend. His ears visibly shifted at once as Jaikus used that nickname. It had that effect on him every single time. Emryc couldn’t help but grin at the thought of Jaikus fighting off an aged angry relative woman.

He gave Jaikus one last squeeze and a kiss on the cheek before drawing away, “All right, I’m getting diabetes from all this sweet talk,” Emryc grumbled, though the smile lingered on his face. The ferris wheel car came to a stop and he opened the door, holding out his hand to help Jaikus off.

The snow was much heavier now, a storm beginning to whirl all around them. Of course, the Life Day festival was unbothered, the Cariah Marey song echoing all around. Emryc was still just in his hat and dress shirt, and even he was starting to get goosebumps at this point. He held Jaikus’ hand as they walked again.

“So, where to now, babe?” Emryc looked over at his partner and adjusted the hood again so it fit better around Jaikus’ head, pausing to dust off the snow that had gathered there.

@Altaris

 

[Jaikus Thorne]

Jaikus let out a soft, satisfied sound when Emryc pulled him close, snuggling comfortably against the half-Sephi’s chest. The ferris wheel may as well have been moving at a glacial pace, as time itself seemed to slow just a bit – allowing the Axxilan to savor that bit of closeness once more. There was a clear flush of red against his cheeks when Emryc uttered those three words, and he squeezed his partner a bit closer in response. It didn’t seem to matter how many times he heard them spoken, for they were words that always carried immense amounts of weight and power to them.

He lifted his head, emerald eyes settling onto the half-Sephi as he finally drew away – roughly at the same time the ferris wheel returned to its original place. Jaikus smirked at his partner’s grumbling, rolling his eyes a bit. “Well you’re stuck with me now, gundark. So you better damn-well get used to my sweet talk.” Stoic as his partner might’ve seen, Jaikus had no qualm admitting being a complete sap at times.

He accepted Emryc’s hand and stepped off of the ferris wheel, stepping past the exceptionally grumpy Rodian attendant who looked like he was freezing his ass off. Jaikus took a few steps before stopping in place, thinking for a long moment before turning to look at Emryc.

“One stipulation, though, if you’re going to meet my family.” He spoke, his tone entirely serious. “There will be food, and you will be expected to eat it. You don’t have to like it and can avoid the spicy shit, but you have to try everything else.” The Axxilan shook his head, turning back to the path ahead of them.

“Because believe me, they will be offended and you will never hear the end of it.” He grinned. “Twenty years will go by, and you will still hear about the one time you didn’t eat my aunts cooking..”

As they stepped out into the festival once more, Jaikus couldn’t help but shudder from the cold. The storm had grown more intense over the past few minutes, and the winter chill cut through all the additional layers that the Axxilan packed on. While Emryc might’ve been getting goosebumps, Jaikus felt like he was on the verge of frostbite.

Jaikus smiled a bit wider when Emryc reached over, dusting the snow off the jacket and adjusting the hood he was wearing – those snow-dusted ringlets of hair peaking out around the wide brim. He pondered the question for a moment, emerald eyes scanning the horizon.

Luckily for Jaikus, he wasn’t the only person who was freezing his ass off, and there was a covered section of the festival just up ahead – artificially heated to a more comfortable temperature. “Somewhere much warmer than this.” With that, Jaikus latched onto Emryc’s arm – leading the charge towards the other section of the festival.

As soon as they passed the threshold, they would both feel an immense rise in temperature – bringing the air once more above freezing. While it was still chilly enough to justify the extra clothing, it was far more hospitable than the storm outside. The air was heavy with the scent of spiced apples, pastries and other baked goods, indicating that there was just as many goodies for Emryc to hate in this part of town.

The covered market was lined with little shops and vendor carts, with multi-colored strings of light that jumped between shops and lined the ceiling above. There were multiple bands playing festive, live music – offering a merciful break from the melodies of Cariah Marey that had serenated them since arrival. There was even a wookiee dressed in bright red robes for tourists to take a picture with – despite the fact that the wookiee looked absolutely miserable the entire time. At the end of the market was a large, brightly-lit Life Day Tree – with dozens of people gathered around it having pictures taken.

Jaikus glanced back to his partner, smirking a bit. “Much better.” He led them towards one of the beverage carts, though he had clearly learned his lesson from the last attempt.

Rather than sweet pastries and disgusting eggnog, this particular vendor specialized in hot teas to help warm up half-frozen tourists. In addition to standard mint teas, there were also teas made with a variety of spices - such as cloves, cinnamon and cardamom - and milk. After a quick exchange of crowns, Jaikus snagged a cup of each and offered them both to his partner for the half-Sephi to pick. Once he did, the Axxilan turned back towards the road and began to walk arm-in-arm with his partner.

“Tell me about your first Life Day memory.” He blurted out, glancing back towards his partner.

@Sreeya

 

[Emryc Thorne]

Emryc couldn’t help but grin at being called a gundark, a playful throwback to Telos that reminded him of the day he began to fall for the other man. The grin quickly disappeared when Jaikus began to explain how he would have to try all the food his family offered. The half Sephi blinked a few times, eyes narrowing, “Your food is oily and packed with fats. I will be politely declining,” He stated curtly, oblivious to how terrifying Axxilan aunties could actually be.

He allowed Jaikus to lead the way, silently grateful. He would never admit aloud that he was beginning to get cold. Emryc had to duck under the decorations and lights that criss-crossed above them. Naturally, he was disgusted by all the sugary pastries and desserts laid out. He was even more horrified to see everyone eating them with their hands, getting the sticky mess on their fingers. Emryc trained his gaze ahead, walking with his partner and hoping Jaikus wouldn’t suddenly get inspired to sample the pastries.

The half Sephi blinked down at Jaikus as he presented the two cups. After looking back and forth, he opted for the mint tea. He sniffed at it suspiciously before taking a tentative sip and deciding he found it acceptable. Emryc was going to take another sip when he was caught off guard by Jaikus’ next question.

There was a blank expression on Emryc’s face as he contemplated. His mind surged through all his memories dating back to the space station. He recalled how days had no real meaning on the space station. Every day was a new day of training. Any milestone was associated with the next mission or rank. He was nothing but a serial number. Nothing more than another link in the chain. Life Day never existed for him back then.

Emryc then thought about his adult life. He thought of all the business deals he had made, all the work he had put in for ISC, each and every methodical step he ever took. He never once stopped and paused. He never walked through a festival like this. He never stopped to eat crappy pastries or drink teas or actually be around Life Day events. He couldn’t recall his first memories of it because it never existed for him when it existed for others.

Instead of regaling tales of his very mechanized life that largely lacked simple joys like this, Emryc turned to his partner and managed a small smile, “I’m living it now,” He said quietly, leaving it at that. The words, though simple, carried far more weight than perhaps Jaikus would ever know. Emryc leaned in to kiss the man on the cheek before he resumed walking.

Emryc eyed the unhappy wookiee curiously, watching as children lined up to pose with him. More often than not the wookiee had to take a screeching child into his arms that sought to kick and punch him. And yet the parents kept insisting, so he was forced to weather it.

The half Sephi shook his head as he resumed walking. He strode past a stall but abruptly stopped. He took a few steps backwards and turned to the stall again, looking visibly surprised. Emryc reached over and picked up one of the many cans lined in a row.

“What the fuck?” He blurted as he inspected the can, seeing his own face on it with a Life Day hat on. The words ‘Emryc Energy’ were huge and emblazoned on it. Emryc stared in silence at the can, though only Jaikus would be able to tell the half Sephi was rapidly getting more and more furious.

“Get yousa Emryc Energy drinks here everyone!” The vendor, a loud Gungan, yelled out gleefully, “Meesa gots all the flavors! Try the holiday special Silver Stare!”

If Jaikus looked, he would suddenly notice that multiple people all around them were casually walking around drinking the energy drinks. Emryc, however, remained where he stood, still as a statue. He was still staring holes at the ridiculous image of himself in a Life Day hat. The can began to slightly dent in his grip at that point.

@Altaris

 

[Jaikus Thorne]

There was no helping the way that Jaikus smiled when he called his partner a gundark, his expression brightening up in that ridiculously giddy way – just as it so often did whenever Emryc was around. The use of that particular nickname was something that brought up fond memories for the Axxilan, beckoning back to that very first day when he started on this path. Even the frigid temperatures and snowy landscape – as much as Jaikus couldn’t stand the cold – were a fond reminder of those moments on Telos.

Naturally, Jaikus’ expression died down when Emryc curtly stated he would be turning down his auntie’s cooking. “This is a matter of survival, Emryc. No debate.” He was entirely serious, blinking a few times. The Axxilan knew his partner to be exceptionally picky when it came to what he ate, and it meant that most of his culture’s cuisine would be off limits.

Of course, Jaikus also knew just how genuinely terrifying his relatives could be when spurned, and that fact alone justified pushing his partner past his usual culinary limits. “Besides, not all of it is oily..” He muttered, squinting as he started off into space.

..Is it all oily?

As he led the way, the Axxilan couldn’t help but get lost within his own spiral thoughts for a – silently considering the validity of his partner’s claim. While he said nothing, the time was filled with Jaikus mentally going through a multitude of Axxilan culinary options, going through a process of elimination to see if a single one would be to his partner’s liking.

He simply shook his head after a minute or two, turning his attention to the two cups of tea. Rather than force one of them onto the half-Sephi, Jaikus offered them both to his partner to pick one that was to his liking, not at all surprised to see Emryc opt for the simpler mint tea. Left with the spiced tea, the Axxilan turned back towards the path ahead and happily began to sip from his mug – once more making that soft little humming sound as they traveled through the festival.

As they walked, Jaikus briefly glanced over towards the very grumpy looking wookiee. The Axxilan couldn’t help but grimace slightly when one of the screeching toddlers reached out and grabbed a handful of the wookiee’s fur, yanking on it with all of its tiny might. As if feeling some phantom pain at the sight, Jaikus reached up and idly rubbed his curly locks.

Jaikus glanced back towards his partner when the half-Sephi spoke once again, answering his question simply. He couldn’t help but look slightly surprised by the statement, taking a moment to pause and stare up at those familiar silvers. Almost at once, he was transported back into his own thoughts - childhood memories were brought to the forefront of his mind.

Unlike his partner, the Axxilan had a lifetime of Life Day memories to choose from – a litany of happy moments surrounded by family back on Axxila. Moments filled with blissful laughter and joy, harkening back to a time long before he was ever a Sith.

After a few moments, Jaikus returned the smile – emerald eyes fixating onto his partner warmly. He reciprocated the kiss on the cheek and moved in for a bit more, capturing his partners lips for a quick peck. “Then let’s make it one to remember.” He declared, a clear promise to his words.

The Axxilan continued walking along up until Emryc stopped abruptly. Given that they were arm-in-arm, Jaikus walked backwards with his partner towards that particular stall – emerald eyes fixating onto the energy drink can that was hoisted up to view.

He blinked a few times, clearly noting the name that was plastered across the front, alongside his partner’s face. He briefly glanced back towards his partner, clearly noting the tension in his face and the way he gripped that can – looking as if he was going to burst the carbonated beverage.

It didn’t take Jaikus long to figure out why his partner was furious. He knew Emryc exceptionally well, and quickly surmised that the half-Sephi never would’ve consented to the image of himself in a Life Day hat for the entire galaxy to see.

Never mind the one he was currently wearing.

At that moment, Jaikus couldn’t help but narrow his eyes harshly upon the can, glaring down at the beverage before fixating those emeralds onto the Gungan with predatory intent. The fact that Emryc hadn’t consented to the promotion, and that there was some company shamelessly profiting off of Emryc’s face and name was enough to make the Axxilan’s blood boil.

While he didn’t say anything, the half-Sephi would very quickly catch on to just how angry his partner was at that moment – his jaw setting tightly into place, while the grip on Emryc’s arm became vice-like – enough to unintentionally leave a mark on his partner’s bicep.

"Who the fuck do they think they are.." He hissed under his breath.

After a moment, the Axxilan exhaled sharply through his nostrils and broke away from Emryc, taking a few, purposeful steps forward - making a beeline right for the beverage-waving vendor. There were no words that needed to be spoken to know that Jaikus was about to eat that Gungan alive – as well as any of the bystanders who got in his way.

"Excuse me." He called out to the vendor, venom clearly lacing his words.

@Sreeya

 

[Emryc Thorne]

Emryc’s ears moved beneath the hat. If he were full Sephi, they would be flattened against his skull, but in his case they simply folded back slightly. The can almost exploded in his hand, but he quickly calmed himself. His nostrils flared before he exhaled slowly, closing his eyes to temper himself. He would handle this methodically and calmly. He would call his lawyer and sue the companies doing this or agree to give him a percentage of the profits.

However, he looked up when he heard Jaikus mutter some words and quickly shift away from him, releasing his hand. Emryc’s eyes widened as he looked from his partner to the vendor. All thoughts of his rage subsided at once, “..Baby?” He called out after Jaikus, but it was already too late. The Axxilan was clearly on a mission.

The Gungan, much to Jaikus’ chagrin, was delightfully oblivious to the venom in his words. On the contrary, he looked ecstatic at the prospect of another sale. He snatched up two cans of different flavors, waving them in Jaikus’ face.

“Yousa wanting a can?! Lookie these flavors,” He was positively giddy, “And then yousa can even try-” He paused for a moment, giant buggy eyes blinking a few times. He looked past Jaikus towards Emryc who had begun to walk towards the stall to hold back the raging storm that was about to be his partner. The half Sephi promptly stopped in his tracks. The Gungan kept looking back and forth between the ‘Silver Stare’ flavored can to Emryc in his hat, “Saaaaaayyyyy,” He began as he addressed Jaikus, “Yousa boyfriend looks almost exactly like Emy on Emy Energy drinks!” The Gungan began to laugh and giggle, “Meesa give you two free cans if yousa make your boyfriend stand there and pose! His face will give meesa muy muy sales!”

@Altaris

 

[Jaikus Thorne]

In that moment, Jaikus moved with singular purpose. He completely forgot about the festival all around them, and went so far as to set his chai down onto a nearby post as he made a beeline for that gungan vendor. Despite the Axxilan’s typical clumsy nature, there was a methodical nature to his every step – his posture rigid and straight as he carved a warpath through the snow.

There was something about the entire situation that infuriated Jaikus, perhaps more than even he initially thought be might. The Axxilan was accustomed to seeing his partner’s face plastered on magazine covers and tabloids all across the HoloNet. He’d even seen the shampoo endorsement his partner had been a part of not long ago.

But this was something else entirely. This was done without Emryc’s consent, and the entire brand was built off of using his partner as their unwitting mascot. It was a complete misappropriation of the half-Sephi’s own name and likeness, and it was enough to make Jaikus’ blood burn molten.

Thus, that energy drink company – and by extension, this specific vendor – had become the sole target of the Axxilan’s venting anger.

Nevertheless, there was a distinct shift in the Axxilan’s expression when Emryc called back to him – cutting through multiple layers of fury that had begun to boil over. That simple term of endearment was almost enough to get Jaikus to turn right back around – to swallow down his rage and put it all behind him.

Up until the Gungan started waving those cans in his face. The image of Emryc and Ship plastered on one of the cans caught the Axxilan’s gaze most of all, his fingers curling into a fist – fingernails digging into the bed of his palm. Though Emryc wouldn’t be able to see it with Jaikus’ back turned, the Gungan vendor would have a full view of the way the Axxilan’s right eye twitched rapidly.

It didn’t take Jaikus long to reach the Gungan – stopping just a few steps away from the man behind the stall and resisting the urge to throttle the vendor right then and there. The Axxilan opened his mouth to speak, prepared to verbally tear into the man, when the Gungan suddenly looked past him and started talking about Emryc.

Jaikus glanced back over his shoulder, blinking a few times as he locked eyes with his partner. While his expression notably softened when he looked at the half-Sephi, it was abundantly clear just how pissed off the Axxilan was. His gaze only lingered for a few seconds before suddenly snapping back to the vendor – his expression hardening once more in such a way that spoke murder.

“Who the hell do you think you are!?” He hissed, his words practically dripping with disdain. If the Gungan had somehow missed the venom in his tone before, it was incredibly unlikely that the man would mistake it now. To his credit, the Axxilan avoided raising his voice too much – still not wanting to draw the attention of the entire festival.

“First and foremost,” The Axxilan jutted a finger towards the Gungan’s chest, though pointedly avoided touching the man. “How dare you use someone’s face without their consent, just to line your own slimy fucking pockets.” He all but growled the words, his emerald eyes narrowing into dagger-like slits. The frigid nature of his glare spoke volumes all on its own – the exact same glare he had shot the Feeorin dude back at the club.

This time, however, Jaikus was anything but silent.

“I don’t want a single damn can of your fucking drinks, because I know damn well that,” He very briefly glanced down to some of the small print on the can. “WompaWayInc, did not receive permission to use the likeness of President Thorne on these drinks, despite building their entire brand off of his name and nothing else.”

He flicked his gaze back up to the Gungan, practically staring holes into the poor man’s skull. “Not quality. Not reputation. The only fucking reason these drinks are even being sold is because you all decided to slap someone’s face onto them - without so much as asking for permission. It is digusting.”

He pointed down to a can of Silver Stare. “Not only it is digusting, but iIt is a complete misappropriation of his likeness and a violation of his right of publicity, and it is a lawsuit waiting to fucking happen.” His tone was razor sharp as he honed in on that point specifically, intending to intimidate the man right then and there. “Just a few phone calls, and I’ll make sure you have so many fines and lawsuits hanging over you it’ll make you dizzy.”

Jaikus blinked a few times, exhaling sharply through his nostrils. “..Have you lost your mind? Do you think for one fucking second I am going to drag my partner over here to pose for your stall, just to boost your sales!? If you think for one second I value my man so little as to reduce him to your sales prop..” The Axxilan’s voice raised ever so slightly, looking very much as if he was about to jump over that stall.

“I don’t care how much he looks like Emryc,” He corrected, emerald eyes narrowing into dagger-like slits. Even if it was simply the Gungan’s style of speaking, the use of that particular nickname very clearly caused the Axxilan’s anger to spike. “It isn’t fucking happening. And you know what? Why don’t you take your shady energy drinks and shove them so far up--”

And just like that, the Axxilan began to unleash his profanity-laced tirade onto the Gungan vendor, leaning over the stall as he verbally tore into the man. While he purposefully attempted to keep his voice down enough to avoid drawing a crowd, those close to the stall would hear the exchange well enough. Jaikus didn’t seem to care how much it made him look like one of the half-Sephi’s overly obsessed fans - entirely oblivious to his surroundings as he ripped into the vendor.

By the end of his rant, the Axxilan had only a single thing to say to the vendor. "Leave."

@Sreeya

 

[Emryc Thorne]

It wasn’t often that Emryc’s face displayed visible expressions. At that moment, his eyes were wide and his jaw grew slack as his lips parted in complete shock. His ears flattened slightly as Jaikus grew louder with his tone, the gungan staring just as flabbergasted. His buggy eyes blinked rapidly in quick succession.

Emryc slowly began to step towards Jaikus, preparing to grab him by the hand and make an escape. The scene was drawing a crowd and several others stopped by to watch and listen. Somewhere there was a kid that burst into tears. Jaikus’ tirade had an unexpected reaction, however. A few people from the crowds began to step closer.

“Emryc didn’t give permission?!”

“You’re exploiting him??!”

The Gungan screeched as he looked around, “Meesa only salesman! Meesa doesn’t own the companies!” He quickly began to close up shop, looking in terror at the small angry mob that began to form.

Unfortunately, this meant there was a great deal of attention on the two men. A girl from nowhere had overheard and had been standing near Jaikus. She looked at him with wide eyes, “Oh my gossshh he really does look like the President! Can I take a picture with him?”

Emryc felt a few people tap him on the shoulder, the crowds suddenly beginning to notice how closely he resembled...himself. There was excited chatter and squealing all around as people attempted to take pictures of him or with him. Jaikus was equally swarmed with people asking if they could pose with his boyfriend.

“Is he related to President Thorne?”

“You defended him so much! Are you part of the fanclub? Where are your ears?!”

“Is that your friend? Is he single?”

Emryc shoved past a few people and quickly grasped a hold of Jaikus’ hand from behind before the Axxilan blew another gasket. He said nothing, practically dragging his partner back from the scene. His grip was firm and his face was rigid as he muscled his way past the crowds. The gungan closed up his shop and practically ran away from the scene.

@Altaris

 

[Jaikus Thorne]

During the course of his tirade, Jaikus kept his gaze solely fixated onto the Gungan vendor – emerald eyes narrowed harshly upon the drink-peddling amphibian as his giddy expression rapidly vanished. For all the ways that the Axxilan was easygoing, it was clear that the entire situation with the energy drinks infuriated him just as much as it did his partner. Unlike the half-Sephi, however, Jaikus had no qualms about openly venting his rage on the matter.

By the end of his rant, the Axxilan’s chest was rising and falling with heavy breaths – his face a bit more red than usual. Naturally, Jaikus was completely oblivious to everything else going on around him at that moment. He completely missed the shocked expression on his partner’s lips, nor the way that the half-Sephi began to step towards him.

Additionally, the Axxilan barely seemed to notice the crowd that had started to form – barely giving the equally-angry fan club members a second glance. Instead, he watched with no lack of satisfaction as the gungan began to pack up shop – successful in driving off the vendor attempting to make a profit off his partner’s face.

Of course, Jaikus couldn’t help but finally notice the crowd as they all began to swarm around himself and Emryc. The Axxilan blinked a few times when the woman stared at him wide eyed, asking for a picture with his partner. “What? No.” He said, a bit of irritation bleeding into his tone despite attempting to be somewhat civil. “He isn’t some cardboard cut-out for you to pose with.”

While that woman in particular backed off after giving Jaikus a dirty look, the Axxilan suddenly felt as the rest of the crowd closed in all around him – just as many people starting to swarm him as they did his partner. Emerald eyes rapidly snapped between the ravenous fan club members – attention flicking around as they rattled off their questions and demands.

“No, he isn’t related..”

“He isn’t single.” He grumbled. “He is my partner.”

“No you cannot fucking touch his ears.”

His bronze features once more tensed significantly – his jaw setting tightly and eyes narrowing. It was very clear that the man was close to blowing another gasket, especially as people attempted to physically nudge him out of the way in order to take a picture with the half-Sephi.

Perhaps only Emryc would be able to tell that beneath all of his anger and frustration, the Axxilan was starting to become overwhelmed by the unrelenting onslaught of attention.

Due to the sheer volume of people starting to gather, it was becoming increasingly difficult to simply push through to get to the half-Sephi. As a result, multiple people skipped asking and simply attempted to take pictures of Emryc from afar – peaking their datapads around Jaikus – often times mere inches away from his face – in order to do so.

Just as the Axxilan turned his head to the left in response to yet another random question, a datapad mere inches from his face went off – practically blinding Jaikus with the bright flash. Almost immediately, he narrowed his eyes upon the offending fanclub member – and one could almost see the smoke billowing from his ears at this point.

“WHO THE FUCK DO YOU THINK YOU—”

Just as it looked as if Jaikus was going to throttle the stranger, the Axxilan was cut off – feeling as Emryc captured his hand and began to physically drag him out of that entire mess. Whether he realized it or not, the half-Sephi’s timely intervention was enough to bring Jaikus back to reality – his attention fixating back solely onto the man he loved.

It took them quite a bit of effort to actually remove themselves from the crowd, though thanks to Emryc barreling through them like a Huttball player, it didn’t take them long. Nor did the questions stop until they broke free from the throng. Jaikus barely had time to retrieve his Chai from before – narrowly snagging it off the post where he’d left it.

Before long, they finally escaped from the attention – disappearing back into the rest of the festival which had continued on uninterrupted. The sound of festive music once more began to fill the air – instead of being overpowered by the shrill squealing of fan girls. Large amounts of people began to gather around the Life Day Tree up ahead, couples and families alike taking pictures beneath its brightly decorated limbs. To the left, there was a Life Day Tree maze, while to the right was another alley filled with food and trinket stalls.

Left alone with his partner once again, Jaikus finally let out an exhale. “Exploitive fucks..” He grumbled under his breath, exhaling sharply through is nostrils. The Axxilan brought the mug of tea up to his lips, taking a loud slurp of the warm beverage as he walked with his partner. “Should sue the shit out of that company..” He muttered.

After a few moments, he simply laid his head on the half-Sephi’s shoulder, resting his face against his partner’s torso. “Maybe I was a bit loud..”

@Sreeya

 

[Emryc Thorne]

Emryc didn’t look back as he dragged his partner from the mob. He was used to the crowds, but Jaikus wasn’t. It was only a matter of time before media arrived on the scene and he had to quickly make a break for it before then. It wouldn’t be too long before it became clear that it was indeed Emryc Thorne on the scene when people realized he was supposed to be on the planet for the Senate session.

The half Sephi didn’t stop even when they were alone. He knew the media and he knew they would be followed. They had to leave the area at once. But there were other reasons for him making a beeline towards the speeder as he practically body checked people out of the way. Emryc made his way back towards the speeder parked. The droid driver was still inside and Emryc opened the door for his partner to get in.

The half Sephi was quiet for a moment, taking off his hat that was overheating his head. He didn’t even look at Jaikus as he methodically upped the tints of the windows and pressed a few buttons to crank the heat to make it warm enough for his partner.

“M2-A,” He commanded to the droid curtly, “Take us back to the hotel but take Speedway 80 out beyond Iziz.”

“Affirmative.”

He loved droids. They never questioned him or why he suddenly suggested a very long, roundabout way to get to their destination. The engines revved up and that’s when the half Sephi finally turned to face his partner.

“You are so fucking hot when you get riled up,” He practically growled before he reached over to yank the multiple layers of clothing off his partner. There was a sense of shameless urgency and desire, his blood pumping like magma. The festival began to slowly disappear as the speeder began to move and leave the area. Emryc only had a single focus on his mind and nothing else mattered just then.

@Altaris

 

[Jaikus Thorne]

It took Jaikus a solid minute or two to come down from his fiery episode. Despite growing up on a heavily populated world, it was very clear that the Axxilan was not used to the amount of crowds and attention his partner constantly received – unable to deny feeling slightly overwhelmed by the experience, and entirely ready to tear the head off of the next person trying to take an unsolicited picture of his partner.

It didn’t take the Axxilan long to understand why his partner didn’t stop. It wouldn’t take people long to connect the dots that Emryc was truly amongst them, and there would be no fighting off the crowds of journalists and fan club members alike by that point. Emerald eyes briefly turned in the direction of the Tree maze, considering vanishing with his partner into the trees, but just as quickly dismissed the idea.

He knew full well that there wouldn’t be a square inch of the festival where they would be able to take cover.

Thus, the Axxilan didn’t slow down even as he laid his head on the half-Sephi’s shoulder – keeping a firm grip on his partner’s hand, while Jaikus’ free hand was used to sip down the mug of chai he carried – all while Emryc plowed through whoever got in their way.

By the time they reached the speeder, Jaikus had polished off the last of his spiced tea – lightly tossing the cup into a nearby bin without every breaking contact with his partner. With that, he finally climbed into the speeder door that was opened by the half-Sephi – comfortably settling into the seat just beside his partner.

He watched as Emryc upped the window tint and removed that silly hat, emerald eyes following to wherever the half-Sephi discarded it – as if to make sure his partner didn’t try to discretely get rid of the ridiculous thing. Jaikus couldn’t help but quirk a brow, however, when Emryc started meddling with the heater. The half-Sephi practically looked like he was going to die during the trip from the nightclub to the festival, so the fact that he was willingly increasing the heat was more than a little odd.

Naturally, Jaikus didn’t even bother to remove the extra layers even with the heat billowing from the air vents – very much enjoying the prospect of slowly roasting in his multiple coats. The Axxilan simply leaned into his seat, looking exceptionally comfortable with the change in temperature.

The Axxilan couldn’t help but go slightly wide eyed when Emryc finally turned to him and spoke, bringing a clear flush of red to Jaikus’ face. Surprised as he might've been by his partner's abrupt shift, the Axxilan never seemed to miss a bit - his heart immediately pounding in his chest and blood running molten. As soon as the half-Sephi started tearing at his multiple layers of clothing, Jaikus moved to assist his partner – seemingly unable to get the coats off fast enough. The half-Sephi’s coat, as well as his own, were rapidly removed – discarded onto the speeder floorboard without a second thought – until he was left in only the low-cut shirt he opted for back at the hotel.

“Maybe I ought to get riled up more often,” He grinned. Without another word, the Axxilan reached around to grasp the back of his partner’s neck, pulling him close to capture the half-Sephi’s lips. As he did so, Jaikus shifted his position in the speeder – shamelessly throwing his weight around his partner and climbing into the man’s lap – legs splayed wide around his partner.

There was a clear sense of urgency as Jaikus pressed his lips to his partner, taking a moment to nibble on the man’s bottom lip and tug it backwards. His hand gradually fell away from the half-Sephi’s neck and shifted to the buttons of his shirt, methodically working to unbutton the white button-up and allow it to slip off his shoulders. His other hand, meanwhile, sliding down and began to fiddle with Emryc’s belt and pants.

@Sreeya

 

[Emryc Thorne]

Emryc was entirely unapologetic in everything he was doing. Clothing was casually tossed aside and unceremoniously bunched up on the floorboards. It was the half Sephi’s turn to have his dress shirt undone and halfway down his arms. He was focused entirely on his partner, fixated on every sigh and gasp, the feel of his heart thundering against his chest, the way Jaikus gripped onto him with his nails digging in and betraying his desire.

Heat and passion burned in the back of the speeder as more of Jaikus’ clothing fell away. Through it all, the droid kept driving, cruising through the night and taking the route Emryc mentioned. The road was winding and curved around a mountain, valleys and an ocean on one side with the city slowly disappearing behind them.

The half Sephi remained focused on his partner, kissing down along his neck and chest, shameless hunger weaving into every action. Jaikus remained on his lap, the last articles of his clothing removed as their hips pressed together. Though the droid took instructions well, it wasn’t exactly an expert in mood music. A catchy and upbeat song played within the speeder, but Emryc was entirely too focused on Jaikus to change it.

The droid sped up, zooming along the winding road alongside the coastline. There was no one else on the speedway for many, many miles. Heat built up as Emryc took from what he had been seeking. His fingernails dug into Jaikus’ hips, sweat beginning to line his body. His hands traveled up, the nails raking up along his partner’s smooth back.

Emryc reached over and pressed a button to make the roof of the speeder recede. The cool air brushed against them as the half Sephi reached his hand up to grasp a hold of Jaikus’ damp hair, tilting his head back so he gazed up at the open sky. Emryc leaned in to kiss along the crook of his neck, tasting the salty skin. His other hand curled along his back, fingers lightly tracing up Jaikus’ spine. The cool air wove along his fingers, giving the Axxilan the sensation of ice cubes tracing along his skin as the half Sephi shamelessly wielded the Force. It would make Jaikus’ body arch back and curl just the way he wanted while caught up in their intimate moment.

Through it all, the song kept blasting as Emryc forgot about everything else. The mob, the crowds, media, all of it was entirely forgotten. There was only the brisk chill clashing against the heat they created between them. There was only the clear skies above that was dotted with brilliant stars and the hum of a speeder engine as they zoomed through the winding speedway that spiraled along the mountain.

@Altaris