#not in reference to korkie but take it as you will

[deserthusbands]

cody: how many tubies kids do you have?

obi-wan: biologically, legally, or emotionally?

cody:

obiwan: there is a difference.

cody: what do you mean, biologically—

[not-wholly-unheroic]

Thoughts on Off to Neverland: 70 Years of Disney’s Peter Pan by Jim Korkis

Now that I have finished reading Off to Neverland, I’d like to share some thoughts on it—the good, the bad, and the ugly. Let’s start with the negatives and get that out of the way, shall we?

As mentioned in a previous post, the book starts out sounding rather clunky and more like a list of facts than an actual book. However, once we move past the original history of Peter Pan as imagined by J.M. Barrie and start getting into the history of Disney Peter Pan material specifically, it starts to improve. Korkis was, after all, considered a Disney historian, so I guess it’s no real surprise that he writes more excitedly about that side of things. That said, there are still some things that bugged me and made me feel like the book was slapped together in a hurry. I noticed several spelling errors, missing words, and/or weird punctuation throughout the book and while that doesn’t take away from the info itself, it’s rather distracting and unprofessional for a published book. It’s also troubling that Korkis has neither a bibliography nor footnotes in his book to indicate exactly where he got his information from. Some of it was, undoubtedly, from interviews he conducted himself, but even then, there is a way that you are supposed to write up interviews as source material for professional writing…and Korkis just…doesn’t for some reason. So if I want to look up more info on, say, a specific fact…I can’t really do that because I have no proof of an original source. Lastly, some of the “facts” he includes—and I’m being nitpicky here but the guy is supposed to be a Disney historian so I think I’m allowed to be—are straight-up WRONG. For example, in the Disney film, Hook is said to have a harpsichord in his cabin (it’s not; it’s a piano—listen to a harpsichord…it doesn’t sound like that) and a cutlass as his weapon of choice (cutlasses are curved on one side; his blade is definitely more akin to a rapier or a fencing sword). Smee is also said to be the first mate in the original film, and while it’s true that in some later Disney media like Jake and the Neverland Pirates has portrayed Smee as a first mate, the original film does not. Heck, the man has a bosun’s whistle that he uses to pipe up the crew and specifically mentions the first mate as one of the people spreading rumors about Pan having banished Tink during the scene where he’s pouring hot water on Hook’s feet. So clearly he isn’t the first mate, and you don’t have to be a Disney expert to know that. You just have to actually watch the film. The author also says that Cubby is referred to as Curly in the sequel, Return to Neverland…which, again, just listen to the film for yourself and you’ll quickly learn that isn’t true. Oh, and did I mention that he essentially defends the racist portrayal of the “Indians” in the original film? Yeah, so…there’s that.

On a more positive note, I did learn some interesting new things about Peter Pan in the Disneyverse (though, of course, since there is no bibliography, I can’t prove any of them…). So, here are a few fun facts for you fellow Peter Pan nerds, as promised.

(1) There were a LOT of changes made to the original script and storyline between its initial inception and the final version of the film we have today. A few things that were considered but ultimately not used include the following:

Wendy was originally going to be the one who wanted to go to Skull Rock while Peter warned it was too dangerous to go there, only giving in when she finally dared him to take them there.

In one version, Nana came with the kids to Neverland while John stayed home, being “too grown up” for Neverland.

There were several different suggested starting points for the film. One would have had an adult Wendy as narrator reading the story to her daughter, Jane. Another started with Peter’s backstory similar to his origins in The Little White Bird. In either this or another version with a backstory for Pan, we would have seen Tink as the queen of the fairies who, on being presented with the foundling baby Peter, decided that he should be raised by the fairies to protect them against the pirates and other threats and, in exchange, gave him the power of flight.

One version of the story that would have followed much more closely to Barrie’s storyline had Hook creeping down part of the way into Hangman’s Tree to poison Peter but getting stuck and weeping frustrated tears that land in Peter’s “medicine.” These tears, of course, turned out to be poison from the red of his eye as in the 2003 film. This version also would have featured Hook voluntarily jumping ship and being nabbed by a silent crocodile whose clock had run down.

Disney debated for a long time whether to make Peter Pan a live-action film, an animated film, or a hybrid of the two. In the case of the latter, Wendy and her brothers would have been live-action characters with Hook, Peter, and the other residents of Neverland as animated characters who sprung to life from Wendy’s storybook.

There was gonna be a fairy ball. And a scene with the fairies feeding the kids at a kind of banquet. Also a fairy jazz band. Yes, you read that right. Fairy. jazz. band.

(2) The very first Tink to fly over one of the Disney parks to head off the fireworks was a 70 year-old Hungarian woman of Jewish descent and former burlesque dancer. This lady, known as “Tiny” Kline, slid down a 784 ft long cable nearly 150 ft off the ground at speeds up to 30 mph nearly every night for three years…while fighting cancer.

(3) There was an earlier version of Return to Neverland titled Peter and Jane featuring Kathryn Beaumont reprising her role as Wendy and Corey Burton in both the roles of Hook and Smee. Most of the voice recording for this version was already complete when the directors decided to go a different direction with the film. Beaumont was ultimately replaced by Kath Soucie, and the role of Smee went to Jeff Bennett.

(4) Somewhere out there, a live-action reference model version of Return to Neverland exists, and I need it. I have no idea if any of the voice actors were used as models as in the original film, but either way, I really wish we had some way to access the recording, or at least stills.

(5) Apparently, the filmmakers’ reasoning for replacing the crocodile with the octopus was that they thought a toothy crocodile would be “too threatening” for younger members of the audience. That, and they wanted to come up with a new, creative way to torture Hook. (For some reason, Korkis seems to think that the octopus can’t see well because he views Hook and the crew as fish. This is another “fact” which I’m pretty sure is wrong. I always assumed the vision of the characters as fish was just to show that the octopus considered them all potential food, not an actual indication of the creature’s sight…but whatever.)

(6) And last but not least, I have to include Hans and Corey’s takes on Hook as a character because my thoughts on the book wouldn’t be complete without them. I’ve shared some of this before but it bears repeating.

Hans Conried:

“He is a much maligned character. If you read the lines with any sensibility at all, you must have an animus against Peter Pan who could fly, and took outrageous advantage of this one-armed man. Hook was a gentleman. Pan was not. His behavior was bad form.”

Corey Burton:

“He’s the nastiest of Disney’s comical villains. He’s conceited and bombastic and takes great relish in his evil and that makes him really fun to play. Captain Hook is so theatrical, like an old ham actor of the vaudeville and music hall days. It’s not that he really scares anyone because you can see right through all of his bluster. He’s really just scrambling for the recognition afforded Blackbeard and the other great pirates.”

I find it interesting that Burton, though his take on the character is more comedic than Conried’s, still has a rather sympathetic view of Hook—that his attempts at villainy are, in fact, so over-the-top precisely because they are meant to cover up a deep insecurity that he isn’t living up to what everyone expects him to be.

Overall, the book had some fun and interesting bits but wasn’t quite what I was hoping for. I’d love to send Korkis an email and ask him about some of the issues I had with the book and pick his brain. Unfortunately, he just passed away in July of 2023, so that’s no longer an option.

[jessicas-pi]

Random Facts About My Medieval AU

Luminara is Barriss's biological mother.

The Clone War has been going on for 20+ years already.

Obi-Wan and Satine are married and have a son (not Korkie.)

Anakin and Padme are married and Luke and Leia are already born.

Shaak and Colt are also married.

So are Depa and Grey.

(They're actually not in love but the Kaminoans tried to take him back at the end of the war and Depa was like you want my commander? joke's on you he's my HUSBAND now)

Bly and Aayla are NOT married but everyone knows they will be.

Quinlan and Asajj are not married either, and everyone hopes it will stay that way.

Qui-Gon is alive. He adopted Obi-Wan, Anakin, and Ahsoka; they're all siblings. He's very proud of his disaster kids.

Cody and Obi-Wan consider themselves to be brothers, but they disagree on which one is the older/more responsible brother. (it's cody.)

Pre Vizsla has two children, an absurdly tall son (adenn) and an even taller daughter (skira). despite their names meaning Merciless and Vengeance, they are both very nice people. They think their dad sucks but they're not evil enough to plan a patricidal takeover of the clan.

Gar Saxon also has two kids, twin sons. they're named Hadrian and Carthage. They are the literal worst.

Jacen Syndulla's bff is named Winter. Yes, this is a Lunar Chronicles reference.

There's no such thing as the Force, but it is said that living within the sandstone walls of Jedha Palace for long enough will give you... gifts, of a sort.

droids exist

[sandyyy0708-blog]

Football training for youngsters ought to consist of passing

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Football is male dominance at its finest. I believe males intended it technique football footweat. Possibly a Football suit a solitary of the huge male bonding meeting.

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Perhaps you are eager footballer cheap nike mercurial and would normally pick your cherished football boots. While these would certainly of training course be job well on putting on making use of the pitch, do you believe you will really feel appropriate using them on your huge day?

Will certainly see that if a private may be going in order to tailgating the certain mid-day hours, it takes warm. Prepare by bringing lots of cool water along with any kind of cool-down gadgets like followers, as well as program, outfit pleasantly.

[ahsoka-in-a-hood]

ooh this is where the 'we're being gaslighted!' happened!

well, I'm bored and feeling fighty (personally I am not a pacifist), though i hate to be a pedant (i love to be a pedant) but gaslighting means deliberately undermining someone's sense of reality by convincing them real things are imaginary

it doesn't even mean lying

you're not being gaslighted or even lied to if you say 'cultural genocide' and someone asks where.

you're not being gaslighted or even lied to if you say 'satine banned the language' (yes i've seen this) and someone points out that she's the only character to speak Mand'oa in TCW and that the signage and korkie's class notes are in mandoa (note: i have not personally fact checked the writing one as i haven't learned what mandoa looks like)

you're not being gaslighted or even lied to if you say 'she should have at least tried to talk to/reason with the conservatives' (yes i have seen this one) and it's pointed out that "even extremists can be reasoned with" is an actual line said by her on screen, or if you say obviously she banned traditions and someone screenshots her saying "we are a people of tradition"

or if you say she banned mandalorian religion but deathwatch, her actual canon opposition, are not opposing her on religious grounds and the closest TCW comes to showing any kind of mandalorian religion is when Satine speaks some sort of death rites to a dying assassin

or if it's pointed out that Almec is an unreliable narrator and not a good source for information

or if it's pointed out that Concord Dawn is referred to as an independent province she has a treaty with rather than as a prison colony if i'm remembering correctly (it's been a few months since my last rewatch)

or that TCW is a separate continuity to Legends

or that Maul and deathwatch's plan hinged on the fact that she had popular consensus and that Mandalore had some form of elections

or that there might actually be more to mandalorian culture than open carrying, honor duels, might makes right, and imperialism.

...or that realistically, there's no such thing as a warrior culture where literally everyone can be a warrior and no one is providing for the warriors, so any system that privileges warriors is a caste society by it's very nature, and while TCW doesn't exactly delve into that class aspect, it doesn't shy away from who exactly is providing for deathwatch's warrior lifestyle either (they take slaves)

or that the very foundation of 'tyrannical Satine' is that she must be outright lying about her values the whole time, because she would not actually be able to enforce any of that as an actual pacifist, which interacts very oddly with her role in TCW story as the one who is critical of Obi Wan and the jedi for compromising their values as she, and many fans, perceive them, contrasting her with Obi Wan's more pragmatic approach to peace-keeping

Well I might be done. Or maybe I'm not. I won't venture to analyse what it is going on in the minds of Satine antis, but i'm thinking about what it is that gets to me about her. I like her well enough, sure, but that's not what makes her a hot button. It's all too tangled up in politics for me. [TEXT REDACTED FOR POLITICS AND REAL LIFE] Satine was an activist. Everything she does is twisted out of all proportion. She's not especially charismatic, she's angry, she's caustic, she could be described as 'strident' she is called hysterical in the show, she's 'too extreme' she's too much, she's an archetype of the exact kind of person so many people hate

and i respect that

and like so many activists, she worked her whole life and still lost in the end. but for 15 years mandalore had a peace. Korkie and his friends got to have a childhood and grow up without war. It's never enough but it's still worth it.

[labrats-and-clonetroopers]

Star Wars Masterlist

Generation of the Republic

[Tales of the Jedi, Prequels, The Clone Wars, The Bad Batch]

"Guilt" Obi-Wan Kenobi Drabble

Obi-Wan reflects on the death of his master, Qui-Gon Jinn

Warning: Canon-consistent graphic descriptions of death/injuries

"Irrational" Korkie Kryze Drabble

Korkie begins to wonder if Aunt Satine is hiding something concerning his heritage.

"Handprint" Ahsoka Tano Drabble

For Disaster Trio Appreciation Week - Day 1 - Hands

Warning: blood, mentions of injuries

"Lost" Ahsoka Tano, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Anakin Skywalker Oneshot

For Disaster Trio Appreciation Week - Day 2 - Lost

Warning: dark, it’s the Zygerria arc

"Dreams" Commander Blitz Drabble 

Commander Blitz fears he’s going mad. 

Warning: mentioned suicide of an unnamed character

"Nightmares" Captain Rex Drabble 

For Febuwhump - Day 4 - Nightmares

Warning: mentions of slavery, death, depression

"Closer" Kit Fisto Drabble 

For: Febuwhump Day 9: Kidnapped

Warning: restraints, references to torture, mental manipulation

Character x Character

"Caf" Commander Fox x Riyo Chuchi Drabble

Commander Fox reflects on his relationship with Senator Chuchi

"Dream" Lux Bonteri x Steela Garrera Drabble

Lux is haunted by the memories of Steela’s demise

Warning: character death

"Determination" Bo-Katan Kryze x Commander Cody Drabble

When Obi-Wan goes to Concordia to search for Death Watch, Cody accompanies him.

Reader Insert

"Eyes" Cad Bane x Reader Drabble

The reader reflects on their relationship with the bounty hunter Cad Bane.

Relationship: Unspecified (but leaning more toward potentially romantic)

"Monster" Captain Rex x Reader Drabble

Looking for a guide on an Outer Rim planet, the Reader meets Captain Rex. 

Relationship: Pre-romance

"Overthink" Kit Fisto x Reader Drabble 

The Reader tries to hide their feelings for Kit

Relationship: Romantic

"The Way" Anakin Skywalker x Reader Drabble 

The Reader and Anakin have a confrontation when Anakin struggles to control his rage.

Relationship: Unspecified

"Ignorant" Kit Fisto x Reader Drabble 

Against your better judgment, you engage in conversation with an intriguing Jedi Master.

Relationship: Romantic

Generation of the Empire 

[Kenobi, Rebels, Solo, Rogue One, Original Trilogy, Mandalorian, Book of Boba Fett, Ahsoka]

"Sound" Grogu & Din Djarin Drabble 

The child continues to be unpredictable. 

"Patience" Reva Drabble 

Reva knows what the other inquisitors think of her. 

Reader Insert

"Stay" Boba Fett x Reader Drabble

The Reader, a bounty hunter, takes a job that goes south.

Relationship: Unspecified

"Relax" Tobias Beckett x Reader Drabble

The Reader and Beckett argue over a dangerous job.

Relationship: Unspecified

"Forgive" Ezra Bridger x Reader Drabble

The Reader seeks an apology from Ezra

Relationship: Unspecified

"Ailments and Fears" Rebels Crew x Reader Oneshot

The Reader, a member of the Lothal Rebel cell, falls ill.

Relationship: Platonic

"Aim" Sabine Wren x Reader Drabble

Sabine teaches the Reader to shoot.

Relationship: Unspecified

"Tension" Cassian Andor x Reader Drabble 

The Reader observes Cassian. 

Relationship: Faintly Romantic

"Shades of Yellow" Part 1 - Ezra Bridger x Reader 

A former assassin joins the Ghost crew for a mission. 

Relationship: Platonic

Generation of the First Order

[Sequels]

Character x Character

"Adventure" Poe Dameron x Rey Drabble

Honestly, I don’t know even know what to put as a synopsis for this one. 

"Wander" Leia Organa x Han Solo Drabble

Leia reflects on her estranged relationship with Han. 

Reader Insert

"Horizon" Armitage Hux x Reader Drabble

The Reader and Hux search for a missing First Order Ship

Relationship: Unspecified

Warning: non-graphic description of mass death

"Different" Finn x Reader Drabble 

The girl, Rey, must be avoided. And by that logic you ought to be avoiding him too, though you find you keep talking yourself into it.

Relationship: Unspecified

[tennessoui]

Omg overly young step parent au! I guess Obi-Wan taking on Ahsoka as a padawan would work for the ages, but I also like the idea of Obi-Wan getting together with Anakin and his padawan Ahsoka being outraged as he's barely older than her, so sets off to find Qui-Gon who was Anakin's master, or Shmi. She doesn't seduce them but gets adopted, and Qui-Gon would definitely offer her space weed or something, whilst Shmi would tell embarrassing stories about Anakin.

Or reverse nanny verse where Korkie used to babysit Anakin who was 4 years younger, but they move away, then Anakin and Obi-Wan meet when Anakin is an adult and Korkie literally cannot deal with this. Would also work in canon universe if Ahsoka was Anakin's Master and her old master comes back to the Temple after years away and sleeps with her 20 year old Padawan.

omg !!! (in reference to this post)

the options really are endless huh i love these ALL especially the last one like anakin gets offended that his master, ahsoka is dating someone who is like a year younger than him so he decides to seduce ahsoka's master to show her up and get back at her but then obi-wan is incredibly hard to seduce and anakin's sorta had a bit of a hero worship crush on him for a few years so uh oh now he's in love........

also opens the way for prime interaction between ahsoka and obi-wan where ahsoka is like 'i can't believe you fell in love with my padawan!!!' and obi-wan is like 'i can't believe you didn't???'

[martamatta95]

Referring to an earlier post of mine about a possible connection between Cobb and Korkie.

This is a preview of a One shot, it's just a few fragments scattered throughout the story.

Obviously the theme has to do with it is always Dincobb 😍

-------->

"We need more men...", she whispers with some ideas.

"We're rounding them up, but it takes time", Din replies.

The Mandalorian princess's thoughts turn elsewhere, while the others go about their business. There is one who could help her, who has stayed out of all this.

*

"Good morning Foreigner", Jo greets her cordially but handling the rifle with care, "Welcome to Freetown, excuse our mistrust, but what brings you to the city?".

“I'm looking for the marshal", she says bluntly and the young woman wonders if all Mandalorians are that blunt and if Cobb gives off some sort of aroma or hormone that draws them to him like womp rats with syrup.

"For what exactly?".

"He sends Din Djarin to me with a gift. My stay will not be long as I have duties to return to".

Jo looks her up and down with a raised eyebrow, she was under the impression of her that she had told him half truth and half lie.

"Mando's friends, they're ours too", Cobb's voice gets the two women's attention.

And the Mandalorian in blue is frozen staring at him, all the while the marshal approaches reassuring Jo and beckons the newcomer to follow.

The young woman curiously notes that the determined and relentless steps the Mandalorian has taken since she stepped off the ship have become hesitant and shaky.

*

She takes off his helmet wanting to observe that face so aged with his own eyes.

He doesn't hold back. She doesn't hide her emotions from him, it's been so long. And, from the marshal's expressions, she understands that they are a mirror of each other's emotions.

"Korkie...", Bo whispers thinking he must be almost 50 now, his parents were 18 when they conceived him, Korkie Kryze was born in 39 BBY.

Counting with his parents, Korkie was 39 when his father died. He's now he's 47, the age on his face roughened by desert life, giving him more wrinkles and years than he should have.

The marshal sighs, he was a boy the last time he saw her, now he's a man.

"I haven't heard that name for a long time, ba'vodu", Cobb smiles at her and now Bo-Katan is sure of it, it's her sister's same smile

*

And that I was hoping it was just a courtesy visit, but there never was any courtesy with you. Just duty and struggle,” sighs Cobb taking a long swig of spochtka, “Why do you need me? From the rumors that reach me of your war quite a few Clan have joined Mando and his cause".

"Do you know about his role as Mand'alor?".

"I try to stay informed, I never thought the past would come back to haunt me here too. I've tried to erase it and stay away from it".

Bo laughs shaking his head, "You're a terrible liar and a hypocrite. If you really didn't care, you wouldn't be listening to anything Mandalorian news and you wouldn't have taken Fett's armor beyond your need".

Cobb opens his mouth ready to argue, but then closes it forcefully baring his teeth. Why did he always find the right spots to hit him? Even his mother had a great talent in this.

"I don't want to go back for a people who allowed a woman like my mother to die, in a sense they killed her. And the Mandalorians never change, they are always there ready to go back to old habits and violence. They don't know how to do anything else".

Bo-Katan shakes her head, "Not all Mandalorians are like that, not even yours Mando or you would never have given him Fett's armor back."

"Why are you here, aunt?", Cobb cuts short.

"Don't you know?", the red-haired woman looks into his eyes, "Many remember you and your actions against Maul and some consider you the true heir of Mandalore by birthright. They also remember other feats that you accomplished in those years and you were just a kid, imagine what you could do now".

*

Cobb grimaces and bites his tongue not sure how to answer her. If there's one thing he wants to keep from each other it's the life of Korkie Kryze with the life of Cobb Vanth.

"This belongs to you, bury it or sell it. Do with it what you will, but I ask you only one thing, think about it".

Bo-Katan gets up from his seat, not giving him time to retort, "No one knows I came here, no one knows you are alive and deeply connected with the marshal of Freetown."

She puts on her helmet and nods to him, "Glad to see you again, Korkie. I'm leaving in a couple of hours. The rest is up to you."

Cobb waits for her to come out then sigh, now knowing that she is alive and doing what she has always done: fight.

His gaze rests on the bag and biting his lip, he opens it. There within it is his condemnation and his hope.

*

Quick and accurate Blaster shots echo through the hall and then lights in some corners of the large room explode, sending glass shards and sparks falling.

A sudden silence falls between the fighting, the movements frozen in alert to await any new danger. The Nite Owls make their appearance. Din was wondering what had become of them, but something is not right.

The blue, white and silver group commando has red armor with blue decorations and the Kryze house symbol is painted all over the chest in black, on the right shoulder pad there is a familiar symbol in white.

Din has never seen this armor and probably never seen this man who leads the group of the most feared Mandalorians in the galaxy. Bo-Katan joins him, each of them wearing helmets and holding their heads up with pride.

Grogu watches him with his mouth open and stretching his fingers towards him, Din doesn't know it's for some form of greeting or a call for attention.

The fact remains that silence remains in the great hall, while all helmets and faces are turned towards the group and the footsteps of the Nite Owls echoes through the walls like the beating of hammers in a mining tunnel.

“I return after 30 years of exile, following the voices of a faint hope for our people”, the voice echoes through the room, pitched neither too high nor too low.

The distorted voice from the helmet sounds familiar to Din's ears, but he's not sure who he belongs to or who resembles him.

"And here's what I find, massiff dazzling and biting each other".

*

"I know who you are, Korkie Kryze."

The pronunciation of the name unleashes groans of surprise and whispers among the other Mandalorian, while the Nite Owls are left behind in silence, including Bo-Katan.

"You judge us, but where have you been for the past 30 years? I understand you fled after the collapse of Darth Maul's business in Sundari"

If Din was curious before the stranger, now he has a complete interest in him. He didn't know there was another Kryze out there, what connection did he have with Bo-Katan? Is he a brother or a cousin?

"That's like The Armorer, I went into exile because I wanted to clear my mind about everything that happened then. It had to process a deep mourning that circumstances didn't allow me to focus on," explains Korkie calmly, "But there have been some events over the next 15 years that prevented me from knowing the fate of my people or what was happening in the universe. I fought my way to protect people in a place where there was no justice and kindness, I pretended that the past didn 't exist and neither did the blood that runs through my veins".

Korkie hadn't hidden the hatred in those words.

"And why this behavior?", Din does not realize that he has spoken, until the man in red does not turn his visor towards him.

“I hated my people for what happened to Satine Kryze,” he says sincerely and bluntly.

*

"The reason I'm here is you, Din Djarin".

Din doesn't know why, he's faced Dark Troppers or fearsome bounty hunters and imposing creatures, but now he shivers from the weight of that gaze.

Grogu looks out from the stage stretching his hands in Korkie's direction as if he wanted to get his attention, he has never behaved like this with anyone.

The Mandalorian in red, though he doesn't stop looking at Din, moves his hand to take something from one of the pockets on his belt.

"I'm not here for that cursed weapon or to ask you for a duel", he speaks bluntly and takes a chocolate bar out of his pocket.

Grogu's eyes light up as the treat is placed between his tiny fingers, but before he grabs it the little boy strokes Korkie's hand with affection.

Din is surprised by the small gesture of generosity and even more so when the stranger in red strokes his son's head with affection. He did all of this without taking his eyes off the Mand'alor.

"We have mutual friends, Din Djarin, whom I asked about you" .

"Ashoka Tano and Cobb Vanth", he adds resolutely placing his hands on his hips, in that damn familiar posture.

*

"But I want you to know one thing", Korkie's tone is stern, "If you go astray, I won't hesitate to kill you."

There is a heavy silence between the two, Grogu is completely indifferent to the threat that his new favorite has pronounced towards his father.

Korkie huffs a laugh, "Maybe I was too harsh, killing is a bit extreme, sorry".

Din smiles back, "If our roles were reversed, I would have said the same thing".

"I'm glad to know that we understand each other, but the threat remains, I'll kick your ass if you behave inappropriately towards our people or other peoples".

"Roger it, Kryze".

“Call me Cob… Korkie”, the man in red speaks so quickly that Din isn't sure he said anything wrong.

"Call me Din, Korkie".

[duchess-of-mandalore]

Bo-Katan Kryze’s Age

Or rather, it’s not polite to talk about a lady’s age, except in this Lady’s case

How old is Lady Bo-Katan Kryze by the time she appears in The Mandalorian? 

We don’t have a canon answer, but we can get pretty close. And yeah . . . it’s a weird answer. But it’s not without reasoning.

Though Bo’s exact age has not been explicitly confirmed, Bo-Katan is in her mid-60s by Mando S2.

How did I get to that conclusion?

1. Dave Filoni has implied that Bo-Katan and Satine are twins, or at least very close in age.

At least twice, Dave, who has said that he has an “extensive genealogy of Clan Kryze,” has referred to a formative event that happened in the Kryze family when "[Bo-Katan] and Satine are six.”

The first is in a YouTube video (source listed in reblog, or search YouTube for the title listed below)

You ask yourself why is [Bo] acting one way & why was [Satine] a pacifist? I have a theoretical backstory that outlines them even at six years old—the two of them—& what transpired to make them who they are today.

- Dave Filoni, The Clone Wars Hangout - February 2, 2013, start at 28:15

The second is in an interview with IGN (source listed in reblog)

I have a rather lengthy backstory that even explains how [Bo] became a Death Watch soldier that goes all the way back to the time she and Satine are six. Because to figure out how she got to that point, and yet Satine is a duchess… I have a whole story about who their father was and what their relationships were and everything with Vizsla, going back for a very long time and how that intersects with Obi-Wan Kenobi. 

- Dave FIloni, IGN Interview, 2013

Both of these sources come from shortly after The Lawless aired in 2013. Yes, it is possible that Dave has since backtracked on this idea, however, until we know more, that’s unwarranted speculation (however, we’ll speculate on whether or not Bo could be younger than her mid-60s by the time of The Mandalorian later).

-

2. Bo-Katan (and Satine) are close in age to Obi-Wan Kenobi.

Even establishing that Bo and Satine are probably twins or close in age, we don’t have a canonical age for Satine in order to solidify how old they are. However, we do know that Satine is close in age to Obi-Wan Kenobi. They fell in love together while they were on the run together during the time that he was a padawan. 

Because this is all we know, the reasoning behind Bo’s age has to rely on Obi-Wan birth (57 BBY). I’m willing to allow for a slight difference between Obi-Wan and Satine & Bo, but it can’t be much (especially since we know that Satine begins ruling Mandlore immediately afterwards). Thus, we’ll consider the difference basically negligible at this point, and just assume that Obi-Wan, Satine, and Bo were all born in 57 BBY.

That makes them 38 years old at the time of Satine’s death in The Clone Wars (19 BBY). Bo and Obi-Wan are about 56 when they appear in Rebels (1 BBY), and Bo is about 67 years old by the time of The Mandalorian Season 2 (~10 BBY).

So yeah. That’s definitely different from how Bo looks in Mando S2. Katee Sackhoff is 40 years old (about the same age as Bo in The Clone Wars), but they really did not try to age her up at all.

-

Could Bo be younger?

So, just for the sake of argument, could I be wrong about all this? Let’s say that Dave has backtracked on his original plan to have Bo and Satine be twins. Could Bo be younger? And by how much?

If Dave backtracks on them being twins, he’ll probably have to backtrack on the story that he had about something happening to Satine and Bo when they were six that had a formative effect on why Satine became a pacifist and Bo a warrior. 

(Though it’s only speculation, I’ve always assumed that event was the death of their mother, so in my mind, Bo can’t be more than six years younger than Satine, but I could be totally wrong about that headcanon)

But let’s say that just for the sake of argument, Bo is quite a bit younger. Let’s say she’s 15 years younger than Satine, and that would make her a little older than 50 in The Mandalorian Season 2 (still over 10 years older than Katee). That means that she would have been about 23 years old at the end of The Clone Wars. 

There’s nothing that concretely denies this, but we do know that Bo’s nephew, Korkie is about 18 at that same time (he’s listed as being in his “late teens” in Season 5, in the original novelization of The Lawless), and it’s just hard for me to believe that Bo is only five years older than him. She’s clearly much closer to Satine’s age.

Plus, making her that much younger robs Bo and Satine of a connection that they clearly had at one point. In The Lawless, Satine says that it’s been a long time since they’ve seen each other and that there was a time when the two of them weren’t enemies. Again, there’s nothing concrete here, but I’d have a hard time buying an actual enemies-life feud between them when, for example, Satine is 25 and Bo is 10. 

Impossible? No. But personally, I just don’t think that’s what Dave is thinking about.

-

Was her appearance in Mando S2 intentional, or was Bo’s age simply forgotten/ignored?

As I mentioned, Katee Sackhoff is 40 years old, but they really did not try to age her up in The Mandalorian, even though Bo likely is in her mid-60s.

While this is strange, I do not believe that this is an oversight. Dave Filoni loves timelines, and Katee has said that between takes all they would do is sit together and Dave would tell her everything about Bo’s backstory and work through all the timelines with her. 

So what could the explanation be? Well ... it could be an out-of-universe explanation. It could have been decided not to age Katee at all in order to make her as instantly recognizable as possible in live-action for those who already knew her from the animated shows (I struggle with this though, because some streaks of grey in her hair would not make her less recognizable, especially with that iconic armor).

However, there could be an in-universe explanation. Instead of having Katee play someone who looks like she’s in her mid-60s, Dave may have decided to have her play someone who doesn’t look like she’s in her mid-60s (but still is).

Some options include: 1. Canonizing the idea that was present in the EU that Star Wars humans simply live longer than regular humans (personally, I’m not a fan of this because we’ve never seen characters aging in a way different from Earth humans before, so I think it would set an awkward precedence).

2. Giving Bo herself a reason for why she looks much younger than her age. The one I’m most fond of is the idea that maybe for most of the time between TCW and Rebels, Bo was stuck in carbonite (perhaps by the Empire for some reason). 15 years in carbonite would allow her to be 65 but act as if she’s 50.

3. Hanging a lantern on the whole situation by saying that “wearing a helmet in the sun really keeps the wrinkles away!” or something like that. Bo’s in great shape. She’s led a healthy (if dangerous) life, but it’s not unheard of for people in their mid-60s to be very athletic. However, I do think that if that’s the fact, it still needs to be explicitly referred to.

-

Will we learn more in the future?

I sure hope so. Katee has basically confirmed that Bo’s story will be ongoing and she expects/hopes to be in The Mandalorian Season 3. It’s possible we’ll learn more about Bo’s backstory (including how old she is), and hopefully we’ll get an explanation for her appearance. 

Katee has said that she desperately wants to know more about the story of Bo and Satine, and how Obi-Wan/Satine’s relationship affected Bo as well. Those are all things that Dave has expressed interest in exploring:

I’d give you more detail [about Bo and Satine’s backstory] except I’d like to tell that story at some point in some form of Star Wars media in the future. I’ve discussed it with a couple people, and we’ve started to architect it into the timeline of Star Wars somewhat, just to see where these things fit.

- Dave FIloni, IGN interview (2013)

So I’m just clinging to the idea that perhaps some day, we’ll be getting more answers. Bo’s appearance in The Mandalorian and bringing her story to a more general Star Wars audience certainly bodes well for more details on the Kryze family story in the future.

[underworldobsessed]

To the Stars

Suggested by: @satikryze and @ajedilikehisfather

Prompt: Obi-Wan Leaves the Order and raises Korkie with Satine. 

Thank you for giving me the chance to write happiness for these two after I was broken to pieces because of Lawless. I hope you enjoy!! If anyone else has any prompts, feel free to let me know!

Can also be read here

Satine buried her face into the pillow as she felt fingers brushing through her hair, humming softly. It was still early, at least in her mind. She didn’t want to get up. Of course, she had responsibilities, but her bed was warm and if the man laying next to her continued to play with her hair, she was going to fall back asleep. 

“Satine,” Obi-Wan’s voice was gentle, and she lifted her head off the pillow. The sight of him shirtless in her bed was more than she could have asked for. “We need to get up. Korkie’s going to be up in a little over an hour and we want to make sure everything is ready for him.” 

Their darling boy, born four years ago on this day. She hadn’t known what was going to happen when she found out she was pregnant, when she, in a panic, called the Jedi Temple to speak to Obi-Wan to tell him. He had been there, and when he found out, he told her he was going to leave the order. He had been back on Mandalore within a few days and hadn’t left her side since. They had been married in a small ceremony, with Qui-Gon and her sister as the only witnesses. Korkie’s birth had been stressful too. Her small frame meant complications, but she had survived and their son was perfect in every sense of the word. She adored her son, and she knew Obi-Wan did too. 

“Satine, I see you dozing back off.” His lips pressed against her shoulder, the scratching of the beard he had been growing the past few years sending shivers down her spine. She hadn’t been sure about it at first, but the way it scratched at her skin sent pleasure through her and she couldn’t find it in herself to complain. “You don’t want the rude awakening that you’re going to get from Kork’ika, are you?” 

“Mm, no, I’m getting up.” She turned around and pressed their lips together in a chaste kiss. “Good morning, cyar’ika.” She sat up, moving to get herself ready. Bo-Katan was going to be running things for today. With Obi-wan by her side as she ruled, they were able to come up with a compromise about the warrior culture on Mandalore, preventing what could have been a fall out between the two sisters. They ruled together instead, and Bo had promised that they would have the day to spend with their son on his birthday. 

“Good morning, my dear.” Obi-Wan was behind her for a moment as she brushed her teeth, wrapping his arms tight around her for a moment, kissing her neck again before going to get himself ready for the day as well. “What did Korkie want to do for his birthday today?” 

“He wanted to go on a ship and see the stars.” He smiled, “Since you can’t see them super well from the city.” The one problem of living in a domed city was that you couldn’t see the stars, not truly. “I think it’s a great idea.” 

“I think so too,” She pulled on a simple outfit, nothing that displayed her royalty today, as she didn’t want to think about her role. Today was about her family, and that was the only thing that mattered to her. She stared at herself in the mirror for a moment, and smiled. 

“Are you feeling alright, cyare?” Obi-Wan asked as he came up, wearing an outfit styled after his jedi robes but in the Kryze colors. He had been uncomfortable in a lot of the outfits she had provided for him as her husband, and upon realizing the reason, got him outfits that were a little closer to what he was used to wearing, just in her house colors. The change in him was palpable, and she was more than happy to see him in her colors. “You look a little pale, more so than usual.” 

A smile crossed her lips and she laughed to herself. Of course she looked pale, but the reason for it wasn’t something she was ready to share with Obi-Wan… not until tonight anyway. She had a plan once Korkie was asleep tonight. “I’m fine, Obi. Come on, we have to get things set up.” She turned and brushed her fingers against his for a moment before leaving their room in their apartment and going to check on breakfast. 

It wasn’t long after the breakfast was being set up on the table that Satine heard footsteps hurrying towards her and tiny arms wrapping around her legs. 

“Buir!” Korkie giggled and looked up at her, his auburn hair getting in his face. 

“Good morning, ad’ika!” She picked up her son and held him in her arms, pressing kisses to his face to his giggling. “Happy Birthday, my little star.” 

“Is that my little youngling I hear?” Obi-Wan came out from the kitchen with the caf for him and Satine, setting it on the table. “Hello, darling Korkie. Happy Birthday.” He moved to wrap both her and Korkie in a hug and kissed his head. Korkie beamed under the attention of his parents. 

“Stars today?” Satine laughed. Her son truly had a one track mind. “Are we gonna see the stars today, buir?” 

“We are, ad’ika.” Satine reassured him “But you’re going to want to eat breakfast first, we made your favorite.” She had to hide her wince as she heard her son’s squeal. He was very loud when he wanted to be. She set him down in his seat at the table before taking hers next to him. She moved her caf away, not wanting to touch it. 

Besides the food ending up pretty much anywhere but in Korkie’s mouth for a while, breakfast went off rather smoothly. Korkie was off rushing around, finding the plush toy he wanted to take on his journey to see the stars. Obi-Wan was running after him, Satine smiling to herself as she watched. 

Her comlink going off distracted her briefly and she moved into another room to take the call, concerned that it was going to be Bo-Katan with something to report. But the kindly face of Qui-Gon filled her vision and she smiled. 

“Master Qui-Gon, it's good to see you,” Satine felt herself relaxing. “To what do we owe the pleasure of your call?” 

“I wanted to wish young Korkie a happy birthday,” Her heart warmed at his words. Qui-Gon had been like a father to her while she was on the run, and she owed him a great deal. And even though Obi-Wan was no longer in the order, she knew he checked up on him from time to time, to make sure all was well. Korkie too loved Qui-Gon, referring to him as-

“Ba’buir!” She heard her son’s voice as he ran into the room, reaching up at Satine to try and get picked up. She didn’t have to think twice as she picked him up and got him on eye level with the image of Qui-Gon. “Ba’buir! I’m four today!”

“So you are, Korkie.” She saw the smile on his face. It was hard to not fall in love with her son. “Happy birthday, young one. Young Padawan Anakin and I should be in the area in a few rotations to drop off your gift on our way to our next mission.” Satine had heard about Qui-Gon’s new padawan, and met him over a call once. He seemed like a bright young boy, and Satine couldn’t wait to meet him in person. 

Korkie giggled and clapped. “I miss you, Ba’buir!” Satine laughed and set him down “Bye Ba’buir! We’re gonna see the stars!” Korkie ran off again in search of Obi-wan. 

“He reminds me so much of Obi-Wan at that age.” Qui-Gon smiled “You must have your hands full… and it’s only going to get crazier around there, is it not?” 

Satine laughed. “It will, I’m going to be telling Obi tonight.” 

“Telling me what?” Obi-Wan smiled as he walked in, brightening at the sight of his former master. “Master! How are you?” 

“Just fine, Obi-Wan, and you don’t have to call me master anymore. You are no longer my padawan.” Qui-Gon reminded him “But I must be off, I just wanted to wish Korkie a happy birthday. I will see you both soon.” The communication ended and Obi-Wan’s arms once again wrapped around Satine’s waist. “What are you telling me tonight?” 

“Nothing, cyar’ika. Don’t worry about it.” She turned around “Now, we must head off to our ship. Korkie isn’t going to be patient for much longer.” She saw the concern in Obi-Wan’s face, but he masked it quickly to nod and go and hurry their son along. 

As they walked up to the ship, she could see the excitement in her son’s eyes dim and nerves take its place. She rested her forehead on Korkie's, trying to get him to relax. 

“It’s okay, Kork’ika. You’re going to see the stars, don’t forget.” She hoped her words calmed him as they boarded the ship and settled into the co-pilot’s chair. Korkie was seated in her lap. Obi-wan got into the pilot’s seat and they took off, heading outside the city and up towards the sky.

She never did that well flying, so at the turn of her stomach during take off, she swallowed, taking deep, even breaths. She felt a small hand on her face and she opened her eyes to Korkie looking at her with concern. 

“Are you okay, Buir?” Her heart ached at his tone, and she caught Obi-Wan glancing back at her briefly as he navigated them out of the atmosphere. 

“I’m fine, I’ve just never done well with take-off.” It was a partial lie, but not one either of her family seemed to notice. “I’m fine now, don’t worry.” Korkie nodded and settled back on her lap, gasping at the sight of the stars in the sky once they were finally in space. 

The small family enjoyed their time on the ship, having a meal Satine had packed underneath the stars. They only returned to their home as Korkie fell asleep in Obi-Wan’s arms, clutching a new plush Loth Cat that Satine had got him. They transferred him back to Satine as Obi-Wan got them back home. After they landed, Satine carried him to his room and tucked him into bed, kissing his head as Obi-Wan came up behind her and did the same. 

The two of them went to sit on the couch, Satine curling into her husband’s arms. 

“I can’t believe our son is four.” His voice rumbled in his chest and she smiled. “Time has flown so fast.” 

“It has,”

“I believe I overheard you tell Master Qui-Gon that you had something to tell me.” Obi-Wan looked down at Satine, who was smiling a little wider.

“I do.” 

“Are you going to tell me?” He could tell she was drawing it out, but as to why he wasn’t sure. “It’s nothing bad, right?” 

“No of course not!” Satine swallowed, where there had been excitement, there was also nerves. “You noticed this morning how I didn’t touch the caf you made me? And that I was a little bit pale this morning..” He nodded, waiting for her to continue. “Well… both of those things are tied together… Obi-Wan, how… would you feel if I told you that we’re having another kid?” 

Obi-Wan was quiet for a moment and Satine felt her nerves grow. She knew that he was great with Korkie, but what if he didn’t want to have another kid. What if he was just happy with the three of them. In the back of her mind, she figured they should have been more careful, that if they didn’t want this outcome, they should have been more conscious of protection. 

Before she could truly spiral down that path, she felt Obi-Wan cup her cheek and direct her gaze to his. He was smiling wide. 

“Are you certain? Are you pregnant?” At her nod, he moved and kissed her passionately. His fingers tangled in her hair and he kept her close to him. 

“You’re happy?” She asked, as if she was still unsure. He laughed and nodded. 

“Force, of course I’m happy. You’ve already given me one beautiful child, and now you’re carrying our second child. I couldn’t be happier!” He rested one hand on her still flat belly as he held her close. “I love you, Satine.” 

“I love you too, Obi-Wan.” She sank into his hold, her eyes closing slightly. She couldn’t imagine herself in a world where Obi-Wan hadn’t stayed, in a world where she had to raise Korkie on her own. The idea just felt like a bad dream, one that Obi-Wan’s arms around her waist as she dozed off chased away as she imagined a little girl with hair like hers and a smile so much like her Obi-Wan.

[thechaoticfanartist]

Aliit ori'shya tal'din - "Family is more than blood”

Characters: Satine Kryze, Bo-Katan Kryze, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Korkie Kryze, Darth Maul, Grim (OC)

Warnings: Death, Murder, The Lawless

Words: 2691

Summary: Obi-Wan’s padawan left the Jedi Order and was adopted by Satine. However Satine and her daughter’s lives take a turn for the worst when Darth Maul arrives

Read On A03

Satine and her daughter sat in a cell together when Maul walked over to them. Addressing Satine, Maul spoke, “you are now the former duchess Satine, are you not?”

The way he put emphasis in former, angered Grim and she pulled out a blaster she had stolen and concealed, before shooting Maul. The bolt simply grazed his shoulder so unfortunately didn���t cause much damage. Though there was now a hole in the glass making it more fragile.

“Grim!” Satine shouted.

“Yes buir?” Grim asked innocently.

Satine was about to tell Grim off for being so violent, and ask where she even got the blaster from but Maul instead shifted his attention to the teenager. “Ah Grim, formerly a Jedi padawan before abandoning your order.”

Grim glared at Maul, “Jedi life wasn’t for me,” she replied.

“Clearly not, as they would not have approved of your anger.”

Grim growled at him still holding the blaster in her hand ready to take another shot. Instead Satine spoke, “what do you want with us you monster?”

“Nothing yet, but I will have a use for the two of you in time,” Maul replied. Grim felt a shiver down her spine as she suddenly remembered when in the timeline they were at. “Where are the other leaders of your people?”

“You should know already,” Satine replied.

“They have either sides with Vizla or have been killed. There’s no one left now but Almec and I, but he’s as corrupt and vile as you.”

“Really?” Maul asked with a smile. Again Grim shivered. “Thank you for being so cooperative.” With that Maul and Savage walked off to talk with Almec.

Grim sat back down and looked at Satine, “I’m scared, buir.”

Satine gave her daughter a comforting smile, “it’s alright to be adi’ka. Now about that blaster.”

***

A Mandalorian wearing a suit of red armor entered their cell. “What do you want you traitor?” Satine asked.

The armored Mandalorian fell to the ground unconscious, and Korkie stood over him. “I would never betray you auntie Satine. I’m here to rescue you two.”

“Korkie!” Satine cried getting up and hugging him. Grim also got up and hugged her brother.

“Freeze hold it there!” called another one of those red Mandalorians.

Korkie, Grim, and Satine all put their hands in the air in surrender when a blue blaster bolt hit the Mandalorian in the chest killing him. The three turned around to see a woman wearing blue armor. “Death Watch,” said Satine. The woman took off her helmet revealing it to be Bo-Katan. “Bo,” said Satine. “It’s been a long time.”

“Don’t worry auntie she’s on our side now,” Korkie explained.

“Why are you helping now?” Satine asked.

“The enemy of my enemy is my friend,” replied Bo-Katan.

“Lots of great allies meet that way,” said Grim, smiling at her aunt. “Glad to meet you at last, Aunt Bo.”

Bo-Katan smiled back at Grim, “It's nice to meet you as well, Grim.”

“Now let’s go,” Grim said. “As nice it is to meet you, let's get out of here first.”

Bo-Katan nodded and put her helmet back on and the group of three met up with the rest. “It’s all clear, come on.”

“We need to contact the Jedi Council,” said Satine. “Korkie give me your comlink.”

“It will do no good until we get outside the city,” Korkie told her.

“Then that’s where we go,” said Grim.

Satine sighed, “you are all talking a terrible risk by helping us.”

“Nothing we haven’t done before, right auntie?” Korkie asked.

“Let’s go,” said Bo-Katan as their ride arrived.

They all got in and headed outside the city limits. The red clad mandalorians began to chase them through the skies. “Aunt Bo, give me one of your blasters. I’ll help fend them off.”

“Grim you know how I feel about-“ Satine began to interrupt.

“I would use my own, but kind of lost my blaster privileges after shooting Smaul.”

While the conversation was taking place, Bo-Katan was already ordering the members of The Death Watch to attack the Mauldalorians. “Get the duchess and her daughter clear,” Bo ordered Korkie as she jumped off the speeder, activating her jetpack and went off to fight.

“Awww I wanted to fight,” Grim sighed. Just as she said that one of the speeder’s engines were shot out and they began to crash just barely making it on the landing platform.

“It’s still blocked,” said Satine referring to the comlink in her hand.

“Then let’s get farther!” Grim replied as she and Korkie followed Satine to get the signal.

“You’re clear!” Korkie told her.

“This is a message for Obi-Wan Kenobi. I’ve lost Mandalore. My people have been massacred.”

Grim saw a Mauldalorain sneak up behind Korkie. “Oh hell nah,” said Grim picking up a blaster. Shooting the Mando dead.

Korkie smiled at her, “thanks Grim.”

She smiled back, “what’s family for if not saving each other?”

Other Mauldalorians arrived, “Obi-Wan I need your help,” Satine finished as the red clad warriors surrounded Grim,Korkie and her.

***

Once again Grim and Satine sat in a cell. This time Grim took to meditating. Grim smiled when she sensed a familiar beacon of light. It had been some time but she knew his presence anywhere. She opened her eyes, “buir, Obi-Wan is here.”

Obi-Wan, who had just entered the cell, took off the helmet of his Mandalorian disguise, “way to ruin my dramatic entrance.”

Satine smiled and turned around and hugged him. Obi-Wan smiled as well embracing Satine. Grim just grinned at her buire before joining in on the hug. After a moment they all let go. “Are you alone?” Satine asked.

“Yes. Unfortunately the Jedi Council and Galactic Senate will be of no help to us here,” Obi-Wan replied.

“Obi-Wan disobeying the Jedi Council? Never thought I’d see the day,” Grim joked with a grin. “Jokes aside, let's go.”

With that the two mandalorians followed Obi-Wan into an elevator, where he placed the helmet back on. “I trust you have an escape plan?” asked Satine.

“As always, my dear,” Obi-Wan replied. The doors opened and another Mandalorian stood there. Obi-Wan shoved Satine and Grim into the next elevator playing the part as a guard and the four of them stood in awkward silence.

“There’s no record of a prisoner transfer here,” said the Mauldalorian.

“The orders came from upstairs,” replied Obi-Wan.

“What’s the authorization code?”

“Oh um-“ Obi-Wan knocked the Mandalorian out.

“I guess the authorization code is death,” joked Grim with a small chuckle. She had missed the action, even though she left the order to escape it. Well that was one of her reasons anyways.

The three of them got to the landing platform but there were already mandalorians to meet them. The mandalorians began to fire at the Jedi and the two fugitives. Obi-Wan fired back as they got into the ship. “I really miss my blaster now,” muttered Grim, once the doors closed.

“You let her have a blaster?” Obi-Wan asked Satine.

“I didn't, she got one herself.”

“And I shot Smaul.”

“Smaul?” Obi-Wan asked. “Do you mean Maul? What do you mean you shot Maul? Maul is here?”

“Let’s just get out of here,” said Grim changing the topic.

“I agree. We have to contact my sister for help, she’ll send reinforcements,” said Satine.

“Who’s your sister?” asked Obi-Wan. The ship began to lift off but missiles hit it. “Brace yourselves!” The ship began to spin and crash to the ground and alarms began to blade. “Let’s get out of here.” The three of them headed to exit the ship as the door lowered.

“Obi-Wan!” Satine cried as she began to fall, Obi-Wan caught her and held on to one of the poles. Grim held on to the other, closing her eyes as she braced herself. However their grips slipped and they fell to the ground as the ship exploded. A piece of the ship landed on Satine.

“Buir!” Grim shouted using the force to move the rubble. Obi-Wan struggled to stand as Maul and Savage walked through the smoke.

“No, it can’t be,” Obi-Wan said as he saw the two figures, he stood up and activated his lightsaber.

Grim too weak to stand began crawling her way over to Satine who had fallen unconscious. Grim’s attention was then changed when she heard Maul speak, “we meet again, Kenobi. Welcome to my world.”

She turned around to see Maul choking Obi-Wan and not just with the force. “Buir!” she cried.

Maul tossed Obi-Wan into the arms of two commandos, and Savage picked up Satine and Grim. “Take them back to the palace,” Maul ordered.

“You’ll regret doing this,” Grim told Maul before passing out herself.

When Grim awoke she was by the throne with Satine on the other side and Maul sitting atop it. Facing them was Obi-Wan held back by the same two commandos from earlier. “Your noble flaw,” Maul began. “Is one shared by you, your duchess,” he began to force choke Satine, lifting her into the air. “And your daughter,” now the Sith began to force choke Grim lifting her in the air. She began to claw desperately at the invisible hands around her neck. She knew it was pointless but she couldn’t think. Maul stood up and began walking closer to Obi-Wan still holding up the duchess and her daughter. “You should have chosen the dark side, Master Jedi. Your emotions betray you. Your fear, and yes your anger. Let your anger deepen your hatred.”

“Don’t listen to him Obi,” Satine managed to get out.

“Don’t listen to him buir,” Grim also managed to get out at the same time.

“Quiet,” Savage told the two.

“You can kill me, but you can never destroy me,” Obi-Wan told Maul, though he cast a worried glance at his family. “It takes strength to resist the dark side. Only the weak embrace it.”

“It is more powerful than you know,” Maul told him.

“Then those who oppose it are stronger than you’ll ever be,” Obi-Wan retorted. “I know where you’re from. I’ve been to your village. I know the decision to join the dark side wasn’t yours. The nightsisters made it for you.”

“SILENCE!” Maul shouted. “You think you know me?! It was I who languished for years thinking of nothing but you! Nothing but this moment!” He pointed to the dangling Grim and Satine who were clawing at their necks as the force continued to wrap around them. “And now...the perfect tool for my revenge is right in front of us.” Obi-Wan looked heartbroken and worried watching the two of them struggle. Seeing Obi-Wan so crushed destroyed Grim as well, but there was nothing she could do. “I never planned on killing you,” Maul was walking backwards closer to Satine and Grim. “But I will make you share my pain, Kenobi….”

Maul lifted Satine higher, and then ignited the darksaber, the black and white glow illuminating the area. With one swift movement he pulled Satine forward and impaled her on the blade.

“Satine!” Obi-Wan cried.

“Buir!” Grim cried.

Then as Maul dropped Satine he lifted Grim higher and she realized in that moment, her life was about to end. She squeezed her eyes shut as Maul pulled her forward with the force, but Maul did not manage to impale Grim as he had Satine, but the blade did still manage to graze her side. Maul dropped her as well.

“Grim!” Obi-Wan cried.

“Adi’ka!” Satine cried, her voice weak as she was losing her life. Both Grim and Obi-Wan could feel it. Obi-Wan rushed to her side and Grim though severely injured also rushed to Satine. Maul sat back down on his throne and watched. Relishing in their suffering.

“Remember my dear Obi-Wan, I’ve loved you always. I always will....” She reached up and stroked Obi-Wan’s face a final time, then turned to look at Grim but before she could anything more she breathed her final breath.

“Buir…” Grim sobbed. The world had gone cold and dark. “Re'turcye mhi,” she added under her breath as one commando grabbed her shoulder and dragged her away from her mother’s corpse. The other took Obi-Wan, taking them down to the prisons.

Part of Grim wanted to fight them, break free and hold her buir forever. Even kill Maul for what he had done, the other part was broken, broken like Grim never had been before. Defeated, and she wasn’t even the one Maul was trying to break. There were binders on Grim and Kenobi’s hands as they were led to a cell. Grim sobbed but it was silent.

All of the sudden a mine was thrown. “It’s the Rebels!” cried one of the commandos. Grim kicked him back as his jetpack exploded. Bo-Katan landed on the ground and finished off the other two before taking Obi-Wan’s lightsaber from one of the unconscious ones and cutting Grim and Kenobi free and handing Obi-Wan his lightsaber back. “Aunt Bo!” Grim shouted wrapping her in a hug. Tears were still running down her face.

Bo-Katan hugged back for just a moment before letting go, “we need to get out of here. Let’s go,” she said. Then she handed Obi-Wan a jetpack. “Ever use one of these?”

“No but in this case I’m a fast learner,” he replied.

“Why can’t I have one?” asked Grim.

Bo stared at her for a solid minute, “you aren’t wearing armor you’re wearing a dress with a see-through coat. Jetpacks aren’t suitable for that attire.”

“Oh,” said Grim realizing. She looked down at an unconscious Mandalorian that wore the red that showed he worked for Maul. “Can I take his?”

“We don’t have the time for this,” Bo-Katan told her.

“I’ll just put on the chest piece then! Alright kark it I’ll just follow some way else.”

***

When they reached the place where a full on battle took place, Grim stopped and turned around heading right back to the palace. Maul could not go unpunished for murdering her buir in cold blood. For attempting to murder her. Clenching the gun in her hand she charged into the palace. What she had forgotten is that Maul and Savage were already busy with another enemy. An enemy that was behind the true reasoning Grim left the Jedi Order in the first place.

She could only shoot one person before revealing her presence. Only one kill before the others would notice she was there for revenge. Who should she strike down? The one who killed Satine? The one who had stood by and watched? Or the one who took away the life she knew? She hesitated but then aimed her blaster deciding who deserved to die. She pulled the trigger and all three Sith Lords turned around. Sidious, the one she had decided to aim for deflected the blast back at the teenager so the bolt hit her shoulder and she dropped the blaster in pain. “Osik!” she hissed.

“Copaani gaan?” asked Bo-Katan picking up Grim’s blaster and handing it back to her. Apparently Bo-Katan followed Grim to stop her from getting killed.

Grim smiled, “thank you.”

“We are getting out of here, you are in no condition to fight.”

“But-“

Bo-Katan had already started to lead Grim away from the palace shooting several shots at the Sith Lords inside. “No. I will not lose another family member today.”

Grim nodded in understanding and let Bo-Katan lead her away from the palace.

It has been several months since then. Grim had joined the Death Watch working alongside her aunt to stop Darth Maul and free Mandalore. When Grim did not wear her armor she wore a red and grey dress. The reasoning behind it was quite simple. A dress to honor the fact her buir was the duchess of Mandalore, red to honor family, and grey to show grief.

Mandalore would survive as it always had. Grim and the Death Watch fought for that. Grim and her family. When Grim had become Mandalorian she had learned many things but the most important of which was; Aliit ori'shya tal'din.

Family is more than blood.

[oodlesofsnootles-main]

Could you write something involving Satine referring to Anakin as Obi-wan's foundling instead of his padawan and Obi-wan having to explain the Mandalorian custom to Ani (and maybe Ahsoka) because he has just given up on correcting her?

Satine knew she was bound to run into Obi-Wan in the Senate building today. However, she did not anticipate him being accompanied by his children, as she often referred to them.

She knew he had his hands full with those two. They were kind-hearted and dauntless yet somewhat... feral. Nothing at all like her own “foundling;” Korkie would never cause trouble.

“Master Kenobi, so nice to see you again.”

“Duchess,” he bowed his head and quickly stopped himself from taking her hand. He had already failed at being inconspicuous in her presence. He failed every time.

She politely greeted the two younger Jedi, who appeared to be privy to some secret joke and on the verge of inappropriate laughter.

Obi-Wan alternated between scowling at the pair and softly gazing at Satine.

“Well, I’ll let you resume your assignment with your foundlings. Perhaps we can catch up another time,” she spoke with a sly grin.

“Yes, another time soon,” he nodded and longingly watched her leave the corridor.

“Foundling?” Anakin blurted out, not sure if it was an insult. “What is she talking about?”

“Oh, uh, that would be a Mandalorian term.” He rubbed his chin, completely absorbed in his plans for later. “She was being facetious, I suppose.” Of course Satine knew what a padawan was, he thought; she fell in love with one.

“What does it mean?” Ahsoka asked.

“In her culture, there is a custom of taking in found or abandoned children and raising them as your own.”

“Ah, I see,” a knowing smile broke across Skywalker’s face.

“Huh, can you imagine Master Obi-Wan adopting us, Anakin?”

“More like Obi-Wan and the Duchess adopting us,” he muttered with a smirk.

“What was that, Anakin?”

“Oh, nothing.” They held back their laughter while Obi-Wan simply shook his head.

[lia-said-clone-rights]

So with all the discourse around episode 3 of the Mandalorian, I would like to talk about who is and isn’t Mandalorian and we are going to do it with a little game I call

Ranking Mandos

It’s been pointed out that the one thing all Mandalorian seem to have in common is disagreement on who is and isn’t Mandalorian. 

Since Mandalorian tradition is to take in war orphans like Din, blood lineage isn’t what makes you a Mandalorian.

We’ve seen this a lot this season since Din believes that to be Mandalorian means never showing your face. Din says in the finale of last season, Mandalorian isn’t a race, it’s a creed. It’s been assumed that the Creed and the Way that Din keeps referring to is the Resol’nare, or Six Acts

So if we are using this as the litmus test of Mando-ness how do the Mandalorian we’ve seen in canon stack up. 

Satine Kryze

Education - We’ll give her this one because she does make Korkie's (her nephew) politcal education a priority.

Armor - no 

Self-defense - Definitely not, we can’t even call her an active pacificist since she refuses to defend herself even when Pre and later Maul threaten her.

Tribe - This one is tricky because Satine’s new mandalorians seem to be actively trying to root out tribalism but she does support her family and even seems open to reconciling with Bo-Katan.

Mando’a - She does speak mando’a even though it seems she doesn’t speak it as her primary language 

Mand’alor - no, even though she holds the highest political office on Mandalore she doesn’t wield the dark saber, which is considered to be the symbolic seat of power for the mand’alor 

3/6 

Pre Vizsla 

Education - Pre’s entire campaign against the new Mandalorians is to reintroduce traditional mandalorian culture which would include educating the young 

Armor - yes 

Self-defense - yes 

Tribe - This one is tricky because Pre never talks about any family but he does seem to take pride in his Vizsla heritage 

Mando’a - We never see him speak mando’a 

Mand’alor - He is Mand’alor as the holder of the dark saber for the majority of the clone wars 

5/6

Jango Fett 

Education - he seems to have prioritized Boba's education

Armor - yes and iconic

Self-defense - obviously

Tribe - ummmm i think it depends if you are going off canon or EU but I'm going to say.....no

Mando’a - *pinches nose* ok so in attack of the clones, when him and Boba are talking, wookiepedia says they are speaking Fett Code, which is supposed to be something he made up so him and Boba could communicate without being overheard. The theory is that it is modified Mando'a, so we'll go with that.

Mand’alor - again depends on if your talking Legends or canon but soooo no

4/5

Boba Fett

Education - no

Armor - yes and janky as hell

Self-defense - yes

Tribe- no

Mando'a- yes [see above]

Mand'alor- ......canon says no....maybe *sigh*

3/6

Bo-katan Kryze

Education - well we never really see her interacting with any kids other than Din's baby and that's just for a second

Armor - yes

Self-defense - yes

Tribe - we've never seen her really do much for her tribe beyond attempting to rescue Satine

Mando'a - we've never heard her speak it but considering Satine knows it you would think that she would also

Mand'alor- she is the Mand'alor

4/6

Sabine Wren

 Armor - she makes it Fashion

Education - kinda hard to say since she is technically a kid herself, but we'll say yes since she seems invested in the cultural traditions of her people

Self-defense - yep

Tribe - even if she's estranged from her family, mandos are the pinnacle of the found family trope so yes.

Mando’a - I think she speaks the most Mando'a in canon

6/6

Maul!

[ I know, he’s not technically a Mando but hear me out, he won the Dark Saber off of Pre Vizsla in single combat making him Mand’alor. I know people have taken issue with Bo-Katan rejecting Maul as Mand’alor because she’s xenophobic but honestly I think her issue was that he didn’t follow the creed] 

Mand’alor - she returns the darksaber to the mando'ade so she obviously believes in the institution

Education- Maul is a revenge gay, so I don't think he knows children exist....

Armor - nope

Self-defense - yes 

Tribe - nope 

Mando’a - shockingly there is evidence that Maul does know Mando’a 

Mand’alor - ummmm he technically was Mand’alor but I don’t think he gave a fuck about the position other than furthering his own agenda 

2.5/6 

Din Djaren

Armor - the Shiniest

Education - He tells the Armorer to put aside his earning for the foundlings, which to me suggests a dedication to educating the young 

Self-defense - yes 

Tribe - Since he got yodito back, he’s been a dedicated (if slightly misguided) father 

Mand’alor - given the events of episode three, it seems like he might not know anything about the mand’alor or dark saber so, no 

Mando’a - we haven’t heard him speak mando’a yet and we have no indication that he knows it. #letDinspeakmando'a

4/6 

[loz-and-lu-fan-blog]

Back together again

*my take on what the darks are in relation to their links. Hope you enjoy. May continue may not*

Time dodged a sword before raising his sword for a hit.

It was his dark again, Eternal, the dark in charge of all the others and the overall headache to the elder hero. He thought his pains disappeared after the water temple, but no this basterd was still around. He wishes he could make him feel every ounce of pain Shadow, Four’s dark, feels. It was very rare that a dark seeks help but when he came crawling from the shadows nearly dying that day. It was easy to know who had done it.

And Time wouldn’t allowed his dark to hurt anyone else.

The sword kept swing and words kept being spit, Eternal made it very clear what he planned to do to the children if Time failed. Time felt something boil up inside him, something he hasn't felt sense he was a child.

“Come on. Show me what you got weakling. Show me what you think of me?” Eternal taunted the hero. It finally reached the point that Time couldn’t stand it anyone, he finally saw an opening.

And he buried his sword into the dark’s heart.

“I. Hate. You..”Time hissed out not knowing his eyes took on a red hue.

Eternal grunted in pain and grabbed Time’s arm before causing both of them to fall to their knees. Eternal spit up more of the malice he was made of however he just let out a weak chuckle, much to the shock of Time.

He looked up at his light as tears ran down his face, Time just looked at him in shock. Eternal once red and black that burned with hatred had now taken on a soft blue color.

“You just had to take so long” Eternal said before burying a dagger into Time’s should and dragging it producing a nice cut. “You couldn’t admit it that one word...you let up both suffer”

Time went to grabbed the dagger to remove it but Eternal buried some fingers in the wound, the pain making Time grab his wrist to try and stop him.

“Ganon separated us and you knew that” Eternal said capturing Time’s attention “he separated us for years, and all you had to do was say that one word, but you didn’t!” Eternal said crying out. “Why?!”

Time tried his best to ignore the pain, to ignore the bad memories of hating the korki for rejected him. The fact he hated Ganon for everything he had done, he didn’t want to admit to himself about how thoughs feeling disappeared in the water temple. How they never returned even with Majora in termina or Ingo being a pain.

He could never admit to himself that Eternal was once part of him.

Eternal seemed to just smile at Time’s thoughts as his body began to fade. However dark cracks appeared where ever Eternal had grabbed him.

Time’s world faded to black

-

Time awoke alone in the middle of a field. He sat up his shoulder hissing in pain.

“What happen?” Time muttered to himself as he stood to see his surroundings, Eternal had been there and....he left his mirror. He went and picked it up, looking in it only to see his reflection, the mirror self eyes turned red and gave a wink causing Time to drop the mirror.

“Where is he?” Time said to himself as he looked around trying to pin to location of his dark.

‘You know exactly were he is’ a voice whispered in his head causing Time to whimper. He didn’t, no, couldn’t imagine that, it couldn’t be true. He wasn’t cruel or hateful like Eternal, he didn’t like seeing others suffer, he would dream about hurting the children.

He wasn’t Eternal.

‘And yet Eternal part of you’ the voice whispered back.

Time shook his head desperately trying to make the thoughts stop before reluctantly heading back towards camp. A part of him tells him that this is a bad idea, what happens if the children know something off or if they encounter a enemy. Time just made it his goal to get back to the camp and protect the other heroes.

‘And if anyone hurts a hair on their heads, we’ll gut them’ a voice whispered darkly in his head.

Time found himself agreeing with it.

-

Time finally wonder back to the camp.

“Hey old man. What happen?” Warrior asked his tone in very clear shock. Time had all but forgotten what his dark had done to him, to be fair it was pale compared to what he did in return.

“I had a run in with Eternal” Time simply said as Hyrule rushed over to check on the wound, Time could see how Shadow flinched when he said the name and made a mental note not to say it anymore.

‘It’s a shame’ a voice whispered in his head ‘they will never be whole again’

Time found himself wondering if the voice was referring to Shadow and Four or Four’s ability to split apart, however given the weird emotions he was feeling he would go with the first one.

“Owww” Time hissed out as Hyrule put some of the clearing solvent on his wound.

“Damn your dark got you good” Legend comments bring most of the attention to Time. Time just gave back a smile.

“You should have seen what I gave him” he said biting back a hiss “he shouldn’t be bugging us for a while”

‘Isn’t that the truth’

“Hopefully they get the hint and leave us alone” Time said as Hyrule finished dressing the wound, he could still see Shadow curling in on himself at the implication of the darks.

‘I’m going to kill them’ Time thought bitterly.

‘Not you job, push their lights to do it’ he hear Eternal say.

That was going to take some getting use to. He looked around to see the faces of the other heroes. Many look concerned over Time wound but nothing out of the ordinary.

However Four glared at him, after reading down what Shadow had wrote in his journal.

“Alright enough excitement it’s time for bed” Warrior called out “who wants firs-“

“Me!” Four said getting all eyes on him.

“Me and Shadow will take the first watch” Four said his eyes daring Time to say something.

“Ok” Time simply said knowing it was throwing Four for a loop “just wake me up for second watch”

“No way Pops you’re hurt. I get second watch” Twilight butted in. Soon the links were watching a haft heart argument between Time and Twilight of who gets second watch. Time smile seeming ignoring the glaring eyes and the voice in the back of his head.

It will be alright......for now

[37-children-of-the-dreams]

Day #15: The Only Thing You Want To Do Is

I give up. I’m gonna put in song lyrics for titles. Why? Because why not. You can guess this one’s title reference and call me out on the ask. Also, I’m making it shorter. College is a mess.

-------------------

As they entered space, Fennec was too busy checking out her new clothes to see that Crosshair and Korkie were talking about the latter’s metalwork skills. The clothes look gorgeous on her. It was a shirt and pants with an extreme darker shade of blue with gold linings. Sure, she might only wear them a few times, but for now? She was a princess. Or duchess since Korkie gave them to her. She thought the only time she’d ever wear such royal looking clothes if she got married to royalty, which was extremely slim in her mind. 

Who would marry a poor child from a backwater town from a non-Republic backed planet? There were some people who wanted to court Fennec when she was younger, but when they heard of other more presentable women, they left her in the dust. Guess she took their actions to heart because here she was. Never wanting to marry someone because there will always be a better option.

And Fennec made the best option in her mind. She had the best teacher and the best provider. Sure, they argue, but they still had each other’s backs. And they have Fennec’s back. Well, that is until she wants to go solo, but for now, she’s got a great crew.

“So basically,” Crosshair said. “You got bored because of your class, went to a forgery, and thought it be funny to see how thin beskar can get?”

“Don’t blame me,” Korkie agreed. “I may have been raised pacifist, but the idea that I can make things with beskar like the traditional Mandalorians? I had to do it, and look! Fennec looks great in beskar silk.”

“She does, but does the silk help with blasters?”

“Kind of? I mean, you can survive a blaster shot with it, but it’s still going to hurt.”

“So a knife fight will be the only thing I can win with the silk? Great, if only my vod Hunter was here.”

Korkie shrugged. Truth be told, he only recently created the silk a few months before the Death Watch took over Mandalore and help murder his mother. Since he was only seen as a future pacifist leader, his old teachers told him to knock off the idea that he needed some tests for his newly created silk just because he’s a politician, not a designer.

“I wish my old teachers were better idealist than me,” he lamented. “They said ‘A future pacifist leader does not make clothes for an army’ and they shot my dreams down.”

“No wonder go guys lost,” Crosshair said. “They saw an independent young man with ideas, and they shot him down. Which is why I lost my freedom from not being a target from regs.”

“At least you weren't a future politician. If you had been raised like me, I won’t be surprised if you ran away a few times from the capital and just scream at a desert.”

Crosshair laughed. “That bad?”

“My nanny and my mother were the only ones who were okay with my ‘outlandish’ ideas on fashion and defense. My mother liked the idea that I wanted to take precaution, but still looked like I was ready to lead a Senate battle, and Nanny Rana? Well, she loved taking pictures of me in goofy clothes when I was a toddler.”

“Not what I meant, but I can see that. I mean, when were you happy with the whole politics classes?”

“Remember when I told you my old friends and I put the corrupt Prime Minister away? That was when I had political class, and I had help from the Jedi, Ahsoka Tano!”

“What? Why would a Jedi teach a class full of Mandalorians?”

“Well, they thought Ahsoka Tano would be a good fit to teach class based on the fact she was our age. She thought us about corruption and well, that’s what happened.”

“Korkie, that’s not a class. That’s a full-on rebellion with the teacher.”

“Still fun though. I got to save my mother from a Prime Minister, and I finally got to see the Jedis. Who were great listeners to me. Unlike the rest of the school.”

Crosshair nodded. He hated. Absolutely hated the Kaminoan teachers he had. They never liked his defects and wanted him dead. He hated how the regs would bully him just because he was different. He might not understand why Korkie would hate a boring class, but he gets the idea that his partner never had his ideas praised if they were out of line with their ideas of the perfect politician. 

Crosshair looked at Fennec with a smile. She was still admiring her new clothes. They weren’t that good-looking in his eyes. It was just pants and a shirt, but he guessed Fennec never had some good clothes. Which was sad because they really did fit her aesthetic. The midnight blue was almost leaning to a black which brightened her smile. The gold that edged the shirt was a nice touch and the pants? Well, they had pockets, which was good enough for Crosshair. It meant he can hide some weapons with Fennec for the next planet.

“Well what are you doing?” Crosshair yelled. “Come here and show us the outfit. I need to see if I can use you to seduce a prince.”

Fennec snapped out of her trance and looked at Crosshair. She didn’t catch most of what he said, but she knew they needed to see her in the new outfit. She power walked to the men and saw what some models did in other planets. Crosshair snickered at her attempt of being a model while Korkie clapped as she finished her mini fashion show.

“Is this the normal fashion for Mandalorians?” Fennec asked.

“Well, yes,” Korkie answered. “It also functions as the clothes underneath Mandalorian armor.”

“Basically fighting clothes.”

Korkie nodded. “Though, I don’t recommend getting into a fight with those clothes. They’re actually experiments of mine. I hadn’t had the time to test out what they can protect people from, and I don’t have much of the clothes. Beskar is one of the rarest materials in the galaxy.”

“Sad, but I like. Are you sure I can have it?”

“I don’t have a female relative who cares much about me, you can keep it and I’d be happy.”

Fennec hugged Korkie. The man was surprised by the action. He never saw Fennec being that affectionate, but considering he must be one of the few people she could trust with her emotions, he hugged her back. He may never know her past, and he’s not willing to destroy her privacy since they became close, but if Fennec needed someone to burst out her emotions to, then Korkie’s a willing friend.

Which considering his track record is rather sad. Sure, he knows Lagos, Soniee and Amis are alive, but they haven’t looked for him. Nor did they ask Bo-Katan if he was okay being in Kalevala. To him, it meant they moved on from being his friends and were happy to be part of her Nite Owls. Which means he can also move on and be happy with just Crosshair and Fennec.

He sighed and Fennec let go. Korkie was still smiling, but deep inside, he left insecure. He knows Fennec can go solo after Crosshair would be done teaching her, but what will he do if Crosshair desired to go solo himself? Would Korkie be willing to be alone again, or would he just burden Crosshair and follow him? He’ll just ask later. For now, it’s Fennec’s time to shine.

“I want to pilot the ship,” she declared. “I know how to pilot a ship.”

“Can you pilot a Mandalorian ship?” Crosshair asked. “I got taught how to pilot a different types of ships, but I know for a fact normal people don’t.”

“I can learn. Teach me.”

Crosshair looked at Korkie who gave him the thumbs up. Crosshair really didn’t want to teach Fennec how to pilot the ship because it meant she’d possibly figure out how to override the controls and leave the men in an unknown planet, but he thought why not. He knows Korkie needs to sleep to get his visions and Crosshair needs his rest. Besides, Fennec was worming her way into his cold, sarcastic heart as an unfortunate sister he wished he never had. 

He took her to the pilot’s seat and taught her how to navigate the ship’s map and how to stop the ship from crashing. He pointed where the autopilot was and let her fly the ship for a few minutes. Crosshair found out that Fennec was a natural. Well, she was a quick learner. Crosshair got back to Korkie who was rummaging through the food.

Which meant only bad things.

“What’s on your ind this time?” he asked. “I’m not going to hold back this time.”

“Will you leave if I burdened you enough?”

Crosshair sighed and went to Korkie’s side.

“Please tell me you did not think of your old friends. They deserted you without a good reason.”

“You left your brothers.”

“They gave me a reason. I was their burden. So I left. You weren’t a burden. You were someone’s influential nephew.”

“But they still left me.”

“I won’t leave you. You could have easily ditched me after all the things I’ve done to you, and I could have walked out too if I wanted. Yet, look at me. Look at me, Korkie.”

Korkie was shaking.

“Look at me. Now!”

Korkie looked at Crosshair. His eyes told Korkie he wasn’t lying.

“I won’t leave you unless you want me too.”

“Then don’t,” Korkie replied. “Because I trust you not to be like them.”

Korkie hugged Crosshair. They counted how long they hugged as Fennec still piloted the ship.

--------------

Previous

[syndxlla]

Part eleven of the More To Love series

Summary: You get a chance to reflect on who you are, where you are with your relationships, and what you really want in life with the help of your mother, the Queen of Corellia. You meet some new seemingly friends, who quickly prove you otherwise.

Word Count: 7.1k, NO USE OF ‘y/n’

Warnings: Non-consensual kiss, swearing, alcohol

Author’s note: i am LIVID. why tumblr only lets you have a certain amount of paragraphs in a post IDK! it’s dumb haha and the only reason i went over is because there is so much dialogue in this. BASICALLY. I am making the decision to go easy on myself. I know earlier today I said part 11 would be split into two, but i am going to just make the second half be part 12. SO. i made a new moodboard for this chapter! i hope you like it :).

i wanna say a big THANK YOU to @stinky-child for helping me edit this chapter and getting it out on time!

PART 12 WILL BE RELEASED THURSDAY, MAY 27TH AT 6pm PST, 9pm EST.

part ten

Koska escorted you back to your quarters, the castle corridors were finally starting to calm down a little bit, however, more and more special guests who would be staying in the palace over the weekend walked in and out of doors, most of them not paying any attention to you because of your drab attire. You hoped the knight made it to his meeting on time and dry. There was no way to know until tomorrow morning, however. Koska was silent as she walked behind you, her footsteps much lighter than the knight’s. Your hair was thick and frizzy from the effects of the elements, and you kept your face down out of a foreign sense of shame.

Keeping your face down can’t hide that sense of shame from everyone, however, and before you can make it to your room, you’re hearing a joyful gasp and footsteps pattering in your direction. You look up from your walk of shame to see someone very important to you, it’s not your Knight, it’s not even Soniee, no. It’s your mother, the Queen of Corellia. She’s accompanied by three Corellian guards and she’s wearing the most beautiful yellow gown you had ever seen. It was clearly a gift from Bo-Katan. You smiled brightly, relieved to see someone you love. It had only been a few weeks but it felt like an eternity. You had completely forgotten she would be coming to your engagement ball. You’ve been so preoccupied with the plans and teaching the Knight how to dance that it completely slipped your mind. Your mother had a wide smile on her face, too, and wore the traditional Corellian crown. You ran to her and embraced her fighting around the waist, something that was not appropriate for royalty in public like this but you couldn’t care less. You had been so emotionally confused over the last few weeks that there was nothing you needed more than a fulfilling hug from your parent. She hums with joy when you come into her arms, and she runs her slender fingers through your beautiful hair. You sigh of relief in her embrace.

“I had forgotten you were coming.” You admit, holding back tears of relief. She chuckles in response.

“You look a mess.” She replies and you’re the one to chuckle this time.

“I’ve had quite the day.” You smile, blushing as you remember who you spent it with. “Come, I have so much to tell you.” You pull away, holding her hands in yours and then leading her to the closest sitting room. You were finally starting to understand the layout of the Mandalorian palace, it only took two weeks. This room was the same blue as the royal color, you guide her to sit by you on the sofa, and Koska awkwardly follows. You look over to the handmaiden before standing and walking in her direction. “Lady Reeves, you are dismissed.” You nod while speaking in a regal tone, but after stating it, your voice hushes and you whisper to her, “Is he going to be alright?” You ask in reference to the Knight.

She nods once, “Even if he was late, he’s bound to duty by the Queen, he’ll be okay.” Your stomach twists.

“What does that even mean?” You ask, there is much he is not telling you.

Koska sighs, she seemed to regret saying that. “I’ll worry about him, you enjoy your time with your mother.” She nods to the Queen who was patiently awaiting your return. You smile a “thank you” and walk back to the Corellian Queen. When Koska closes the door finally, you slouch into the couch, feeling pure relief as you were alone with your kin.

“You look absolutely exhausted.” Your mother says.

“I am, life here is exhausting. There are so many rules, much more than back at home.” You awkwardly shrug.

“We miss you.”

“I miss you too, more than you know.” You were so homesick these days. “I had to spend four days learning all the rules and customs and I still take private lessons from the literal queen so I don’t embarrass her anymore.” You roll your eyes, knowing that you couldn’t express this arrogance to anyone else in the palace and taking advantage of the chance now.

“Oh, I'm sorry love, I worried that there might be a bit of a culture shock.” She takes your hand with hers, stroking the stop of it with her own cold hands.

“Is father here?” You ask, your eyes hopeful. That glimmer immediately fades when she sighs, her eyes leaving yours. “What? What’s wrong?”

“He’s not coming…”

“What? Why?”

“He’s… sick, I didn’t want to tell you but it’s your right to know. You would have eventually found out anyway.” She somberly explains.

“Is he okay?”

“Yes, we think so. But traveling and socializing in his condition was not realistic. We understand that rumors will start, but his health is necessary before an impending war.” She frowns, and you try not to let it upset you too much. “Enough of that, tell me about this place.” Her tone immediately flips.

You smile, “It’s so hot, much hotter than Corellia. I mean the heat is exhausting and the dresses are heavy and the tea parties are always outside and I always feel overheated.” You complain.

“Do you at least like the prince?” She asks. “Is he cute?”

Now you must choose if you’re going to lie, like you have for the last fortnight, or be truthful with the only person you feel that you can be. You sigh, and just look at her, defeated, hoping that would be enough to tell her.

She hums empathetically. “Oh dear.”

“Yeah…” You sigh, happy she understood and you didn’t have to make the decision of communication.

“Well, keep your head up, I didn’t really like your father all that much until we had you.” She chuckles.

“What?” You ask, your eyes showing surprise. “I had no idea…” You weren’t sure how much you liked that thought, your parents had always been an example of a couple you’d like to experience for yourself. “Why had you never told me?”

“There was no reason for you to know before now. The older you get, the more you’ll learn what you need to hear.” She explains. You supposed she was right. “And remember, it’s supposed to be a partnership—marriage that is— it’s not so bad if you work at it.”

“Well, he certainly likes being solo.” You humph. “He’s very kind, and it’s clear he cares for his kingdom but-“ You knew you weren’t being completely truthful with her.

“But what?”

You debated your next words. You wanted to tell her, more than anything you wanted your mother to know what was really going on, but you knew you couldn’t. You knew she wouldn’t understand. This marriage is a diplomatic solution to an oncoming war of her home kingdom. She wouldn’t understand the strife. “Nothing.” You feel untruthful to yourself, but you can’t do anything about it. “I just feel like I will be unhappy in our marriage.”

“Marriage isn’t supposed to make you happy.”

You hated that, it wasn’t the first time she had said it to you, either. When an arranged marriage was first brought up, she said it then for the first time. The other time she said it to you was about three weeks ago, just before you were going to leave Corellia and come to this ornate prison. It was your last attempt to try and get out of it, but she uttered those words and you had to live with it.

This time, you pulled your hand away from hers. “But what about love? I thought you loved my father!?”

“I do love him, but that didn’t happen for a long time, like I said, not until you were born.”

“So then what’s the reason for all this? For sending me here for a big ball and a fancy wedding if I am not supposed to love the man I’m sharing these parties with? How am I to enjoy marriage before children then?” You stand up on these words out of frustration. You hated feeling like your only purpose in this world is to bear children, to produce an heir.

“Love between royals is not a natural thing, it can’t just happen between any two people. There must be that connection there and it often isn’t developed for a while.” She chuckles. “What? Did you think you were going to live inside one of those fairytales your wet nurse used to tell you before you went to sleep?” She asks, looking up at you, surprised.

“What do you mean ‘between royals’?”

“We must do what’s best for our people, it’s selfish to marry for love when you are royalty.”

You feel defeated.

“No… No, there's so much more to love. Love is not selfish, in fact, I believe that loving someone with our hesitation and unconditionally is the most selfless act one could ever do.” Your voice raises just a bit. You meant every word you said.

“If you feel this way about love, then surely you must love the Prince. What’s the problem then? We’ve been preparing you for this reality for years, it’s not a new concept that you would not love immediately, I can only imagine you would feel so emotionally because you have those feelings for someone.”

Did you?

You consider what she was saying, your eyes trailing to the side as you thought. You supposed she was right, there would be no reason for you to feel so passionately about it if you hadn’t experienced it for yourself.

But you weren’t having that experience with Korkie, the hell you weren’t.

Did you love the Knight? You don’t know his name, you don’t know his face, you don’t know anything about him and yet you are starting to think that infatuation has grown into adoration. Your legs feel weak, and you have to slowly lower yourself onto the couch again, feeling woozy from the realization. How did you let it get so far? Your confused face turns to look at your mother’s, eyebrows furrowed and mouth slightly open.

“I sense you realized something you didn’t already know.”

You slowly nod your head. Unsure of how to react, you fiddle with your fingers, trying to gain your bearings again. You expect your mother to speak up but she never does.

Before the conversation continues, however, the door is pulled open and three Knights are walking in, a Butler steps in, “Her Majesty, The Queen.” He says before nodding and stepping away. Bo-Katan glides into the room, regal as ever. You and your mother stand up from where you sat, curtsying for your hostess.

“Your Majesty.” She takes your mother’s hand, both of them smiling and kissing one another on either cheek. “I trust your travels were comfortable?”

“Yes, your coachmen were very hospitable.” Your mother nods.

Korkie then enters the rooms with another young Prince who you hadn't met before. He was blonde, and skinny as a twig. He wore a white and gold ceremonial cloak that covered his right shoulder. You smile at Korkie out of Obligation, and he and the other prince bow to the women in the room.

“Princess!” Korkie cheers, “This is my cousin, Prince Hugo of Bespin.”

“A pleasure to meet you, Your Highness.” He takes your hand and kisses the top of it, his smile charming and blue eyes bright. You were flattered by the gesture, humming.

“The pleasure is mine.” You follow royal protocol. Then, another woman enters the room. She’s tall, an intricate headpiece adorns long, black hair and she has hypnotic, black eyes hidden by deep set, hooded eyes. She’s beautiful, with toned skin and red dots drawn under her lips making her stand out from everyone in the room.

“Ah, Her Majesty Queen Clarya of Naboo.” Bo-Katan introduces. The Elven Queen Ahsoka then enters the room, and everyone, even the Queens bow out of respect before the door is closed. The parlor is suddenly very full, and your intimate moment with your mother is lost entirely. You are suddenly very aware of your disheveled look, and try to run your fingers through your hair a few times.

“It’s lovely to finally meet you.” Clarya says, smiling. “I’ve heard so much about you.” Taking your hand and giving you a friendly squeeze.

“Oh… I’m afraid I haven’t heard much about you.” You apologize.

“No troubles, You are all the gossip among the other Kingdoms.” The eastern queen explains.

“Yes, It appears you are.” Korkie says, moving to stand by your side. “How wonderful that my beautiful wife-to-be is regarded so highly across the world.” He tries to take your hand but you pull it away, not necessarily meaning to, but it was a reflex that you failed to suppress after realizing you were in love with an entirely different man. He clears his throat, and the aura in the room is awkward, you aren’t sure what to do, so you just say the first thing to come out of your mouth.

“Have any of you gone to the beach? It’s lovely!” You awkwardly smile before walking over to the drink cart underneath a portrait of a Manda’lor of a past generation. You try to ignore all the people, feeling a little embarrassed that they were all seeing you dressed like this. You didn’t even think of what suspicion could be born out of that phrase.

“Oh yes, our sandy beaches are widely loved by all.” Bo-Katan takes a seat on the sofa in the place you had sat at just moments before, crossing her ankles under her gown. You shakily pour amber liquid into a crystal glass, your hand shaking as you bring it to your lips, taking a sip of the alcohol.

“Nothing like the Corellian beaches, I assume?” Your mother asks. “Our beaches are rocky and often frozen over.”

“Ah yes, but the Corellian ship fjords are lovely, what a wonderful exposure to culture you raised your daughter with!” Ahsoka sings.

“She turned out alright.” Your mother teases and everyone chuckles warmly. You turn around after drinking, and sheepishly smile. Gods you hope she meant that.

“Well, we are all very excited for the ball tomorrow.” Clarya says, “My assistant worked on a mask for hours the night before we left. It will be an extravagant sight to see everyone dressed so festively.”

“Of course, but we all know none of us can compare to the fashion and extravagance of the Naboolians.” Korkie hums. Everyone chuckles again. You nervously looked out to all of them, you had just made possibly the biggest mistake of your life and none of them paid any attention to you despite it. You had just shown Korkie your first and only sign of true disinterest the night before your engagement ball and you desperately wished you could go back in time and take his hand instead of denying the act of affection, even if you didn’t feel good about it.

“I think you will all be pleased to hear that it was the Princess who came up with the Masquerade idea.” Bo gestures to you. You smile with your teeth, trying to act normal and not like you were secretly dying inside. There is general amusement when that is said, and you can’t help but fidget with the crystal alcohol glass, wanting to leave the room and return to the comfortable embrace of the Knight on the beach.

“Beautiful and smart!” Korkie’s cousin laughs, putting emphasis on the ‘and’. “It’s not every day you find a woman like that!” Everyone laughs again, and this time you force out a faux chuckle to seem more involved in the eyes of the others. “You better hang onto her, Kork!” Korkie smiled at his cousin's words, looking over to you. You feel weak, not liking all the attention. If this much attention was making you feel this way, what would the ball with hundreds of guests tomorrow night be like?

“Yes but, I can’t seem to remember going to the beach with you?” Korkie asks, his diplomatic voice cutting through the laughter. You nervously laugh. He knew something was up. How could you be so careless?

“What? Did I say something about the beach?” You try to play it off cluelessly.

“Oh come on, we all know you aren’t that ditzy.” His cousin groans

“Your fiance asked you a question, dear.” Your mother prods.

“Yes, did you go to the beach sometime during your time here?” Bo-Katan is the one to ask this time, and your legs are starting to feel unsteady.

“It’s not a bad thing, we just want to know.” Korkie takes a step in your direction, making you feel closed in. “We all love the beach here and we are happy you have gotten the chance to enjoy it.” You sensed there was an undertone with his true meaning.

You weren’t sure if you believed him when he said this, “Is it hot in here?” You chuckle, “I think I’ll have another drink, would you like one, Korkie? You ask before turning around and pouring another glass of brandy. He can see how shaky your hand is as you try to fill the cup. He stands behind you, wrapping his arm around you and cupping your hand with his in an attempt to make the pouring more steady. The action startles you, and you flinch as a reaction, dropping the crystal glass in your hand. It was already partially full, and it falls down to the floor in slow motion, golden drink splashing out of it as glass shatters on impact, making a loud, crashing sound that sends shards out across the floor and leaves a puddle of alcohol to soak into the bottom hem of Koska’s sister’s dress. The women of the room gasp from shock, and Hugo walks quickly over to see the mess. You look down at the glass in shock of what you just did, your heart sinking and stomach churning. Lady Tano is the next one to walk over to you, taking you by the shoulders and guiding you to one of the arm chairs, helping you sit down. The room was deathly silent now, you could hear your pulse ringing through your ears. Ahsoka crouches before you, ruling your hand with hers and trying to comfort you from the unexpected shock. Korkies hands are balled into fists. Was he angry with you?

“No worries.” Hugo laughs, trying to be an entertainer, “Butler!” The Butler opens the door.

“Is everything alright?” He asks after bowing.

“Yes, we just made a little mess, would you be so kind as to clean it up?” Hugo walks Korkie, who seems to be just as shocked and embarrassed as you, over to another armchair. The butler snaps and then whistles and three young maids come in, each one getting on their hands and knees to pick up the pieces of glass.

“Princess?” Your mother says, “Do you have something you would like to say to the Manda’lor?” She awkwardly asks, clearly trying to make good from the situation, side-eying Bo.

Your pale face turns to look at Bo, who had that same disappointed frown that you always see on her.

“My deepest apologies, your Majesty.” You clear your throat before painfully looking over to where Korkie sat, his hand resting in his palm and expression down turned.

“Well!” Hugo takes the center of the room. “No use in sitting here in silence, mistakes happen! Right Auntie?” He says to Bo.

“Of course.” She smiles, physically accepting your apology with a reassuring nod.

“Lovely, would anyone like some music?” He asks.

“That would be lovely, Hugo.” Lady Tano says in her ethereal voice. He smiles and walks over to the baby grand piano in the corner of the room, the same baby grand that you played at for your Knight a few weeks ago.

“The Princess plays!” Your mother says, trying to alleviate any tension.

“She does?” Hugo makes direct eye contact with you. “Would you like to play a duet with me?”

“Hugo, she just-“ Ahsoka begins but is interrupted by your mother.

“Oh won’t you play for us Dear?” She asks, smiling.

“Please! I have wanted to hear you play since I was told you could.” Bo-Katan asks. It would be rude to decline a request from the Queen and the Host of the night.

You nod and stand up, that could be just the thing you need to feel better. You walk over to the piano, stopping just before Hugo.

“Bass or Soprano?” He asks, muttering so quietly that only you can hear it.

“Soprano.” You say. He pulls the bench out and sits first since he would be playing the lower part. You then sit next to him, your hands still slightly shaking.

“Do you know the ‘Dathomirian Waltz’?” He asks. You nod. “Lovely, key of D minor then, I’ll follow you.” He pulls his hands up to the keys, and you follow, taking two deep breaths, the first to calm your shaking hands, the second to conduct both of you in at the same time. Together you play a set of intricate chords, Hugo emphasizing on the bass notes, playing a complex scale that brought his left hand over his right several times. You carry the melody, playing just slightly louder than him and allowing yourself to fall into the trance of performing. Your hands finally quit shaking after a few phrases of the music, allowing it to soothe your nerves. Music has always done that for you. All of the nobles in the room smile, the Naboolian Queen sighing at the beauty of the complicated piece. You can’t keep the smile from pulling on your lips. Korkie’s cousin was very talented, much better than you. His hand brushed against yours several times and you couldn’t help yourself from thinking about the Knight when Hugo touches you.

This was something you would never get with him. You would never get to share a memorable moment with others, never get to rub hands against each other in front of three Queens, never get to look one another in the eye without shame or secrecy. The thoughts start to overcome your consciousness, causing you to play a sour note. No one seemed to notice, but you were more aware of it than you should have been.

A beautiful piece, carefully composed and rehearsed, performed with the intent to dazzle, the intent to impress. However there will always be the sour note, an incorrect chord that the audience might not hear but those giving the show will dwell on undoubtedly.

Like the Kingdom of Mandalore.

——————————————

“Rise and Shine your Highness!” A sing-songy voice calls out to you before pulling the long, draping curtains apart and letting the warm Mandalorian sun pour into the room. You groan and flip over onto your side, your body is still exhausted from yesterday evening and you would like to sleep in a little longer.

“Oh, don’t give us that.” A more brash voice groans and you recognize it as Koska’s. You can hear a number of other bodies file into the suite, maybe three or four. The handmaid's pull in the elven dress and a light breakfast. You can still smell the salt water on your forearm as you swing your hand over your eyes. You were not a morning person. Koska walks up to your bed before sitting on the edge of it, placing her tan hand on your shoulder. “We’ve let you sleep in long enough, we have to get you dressed and ready for tea with the Queens.”

“Queens?” You mumble, slurring the ‘s’ out.

“Yup, both Bo-Katan and your mother as well as the Queen of Naboo and Duchess of the Felucian mountain Kingdom are all eager to spend brunch with you in the Garden.” More guests arrived this morning while you were still sleeping, but it wasn’t until Koska explained to you about the women waiting for you that you remembered what day it was. You opened your eyes wide, flopping your arm onto the mattress beside you and looking up at her drowsily.

“The masquerade is today.” You say out of realization. She smirks and slowly nods her head. Soniee budges into your conversation, sitting on the opposite side of the bed.

“We have two dresses for you to wear today! This one,” She pulls forward a gown that isn’t quite as full and round as the dress for the ball, but is still a lovely dress with a pretty skirt and pearls embroidered into the bodice. “And of course the elf dress.” She nods to the pink and gold gown that sat on a sewing-bust, shimmering in the light. “We won’t get you into the ball gown until later tonight.” She hums.

“Now, we have to get you cleaned up, your hair is a mess.” Koska stands up and pulls the heavy down comforter from off of you. The loss of warmth elicits another sleepy groan from your lips and you stare up at the ladies in waiting frustratedly. “Up!” Koska’s serious voice commands and you’re scared enough of her that you jump up out of bed, pulling the nightgown sleeve up that has been slowly slipping down your shoulder and showing more and more skin. “That’s better.” Koska hums, “Let’s get you a bath, yeah?” She walks towards the bath room, opening the golden gilded doors and into the naturally-light room. You will always admire the beauty and effort put into the Mandalorian palace despite the internal battle with living here. You follow her into the room, still sleepy and walking slowly but eventually making it to the tub in the center of the room. The bath has already been drawn, which they must have done in your sleep (they’ve never done that before). You strip out of the cream-colored nightie and dip into the warm water. It smelled of lavender and honey and you allowed your muscles to relax into the bubbles. It was perfect, exactly what you needed to clear your racing and stressful mind. Your muscles were sore from yesterday and the warm water and flowery oils soaked them blissfully. You sigh at the sensation but before you can enjoy it anymore, Koska is dumping the warm water over your head, wetting it completely. It’s unexpected and you gasp from shock, your eyes glued shut to keep the water out of them. Damp hands come up from out of the water to wipe your eyes but then another dump of water is pouring over your head and you’re back at square one. Koska was a much harsher bather than Sonnie was.

All is forgiven however when she starts massaging your scalp, cleaning your hair. You relax back into the tub and enjoy the seawater and wind getting rinsed out. The other ladies come in, one on either side of the tub who files your nails, and Sonnie brings in a towel and silk robe. The other handmaiden works at your calloused feet with a pumice stone and you try not to let it tickle too much. It was true pampering and you loved every second of it. Usually there’s only one maiden to bathe you but five was divine. You assumed this was the treatment the Queen always received.

After you are properly cleaned, your Corellian tea is brought in and you’re left alone for as long as you like. You slowly sip on the purple shaded drink, waking up from it’s comforting properties. You sigh deeply, allowing the fragrant air to fill your lungs while you look out of the tall, narrow window in the center of the outside wall. You could not see the ocean from here, but instead the distant roofs of Keldabe. It was a beautiful summer day, there wasn’t a cloud in the sky and you could hear the birds who have nested in the nooks and crannies of the towers chirping. You knew you had a long day ahead of you, and you wanted to try and enjoy it as much as you could. You never really enjoyed the social aspect of royalty, and that’s all today will be, but you’re ready to brave it head on.

An hour passes before you are finally dressed in the first gown of the day. Your hair is braided back so that it will have a desirable wave for the ball tonight. You are snuggly tied into the pearled bodice of the dress, and you run your hands up and down the beading, allowing it to tickle your soft palms.

Koska pulls open the door, and you’re expecting to see the Knight standing there stoically as always, but he isn’t. The hallway is completely empty, in fact, and you can’t ignore the dreadful feeling that overcomes your body. Where was he?

You clear your throat, and look back at Koska, who was adjusting the skirt of your gown as you walked.

“Where is he?” You ask, your voice hushed almost to a whisper but not quite. There were a million possibilities behind his absence and not a single one of them was ideal. Koska lifts up from her crouched position, smoothing the front pleats of her dress.

“What?” She asks and you sigh out of frustration, there was absolutely no way she didn’t know what you were talking about but you had to be vague because of all the ladies in waiting listening in.

“Who will be accompanying me to the garden?” You say with a forceful tone, trying to prod at a deeper meaning to the question.

Luckily, Lady Reeves picks up on it, and she looks behind you. You felt like she was avoiding eye-contact and it only made you more stressed and confused. “I’ll be escorting you, Highness.” She nodded, moving a step forward and then taking the lead down the corridor. You follow hesitantly, and wait until you are far enough down the hall from the other ladies back in your suite to speak again.

“Don’t horseshit me.” You mutter behind her. She keeps her chin up high as usual. “He’s in trouble, isn’t he.”

Koska doesn’t answer.

“Koska, you promised me he would be okay.” You try not to let the emotion show through your tone but that was a challenge. You felt guilty for some reason. If he was in trouble, it would be entirely your fault. The words shake in your throat and maybe it’s the tight corset and the fact that you are descending the stairs but you’re out of breath and it’s hot, so hot.

“He’s fine, I swear to the stars.” She whispers, saying it straight forward instead of turning back at you in an attempt to stay calm and unsuspecting to watchful eyes.

“Well then why didn’t you tell me that?” You ask, twiddling your thumbs.

“I couldn’t… there’s more to it but-“

“But what? What could be so secretive that you have to keep it from your future queen?” You say through gritted teeth and immediately after, Koska is spinning around on the staircase and looking up at you with a furrowed brow. You felt like you were being scolded by an impatient tutor despite the fact that you out-ranked her.

“You don’t even want to be the Queen.” She says in a whisper-shout, starting to sound as angry and emotional as you were just moments before.

“You’re right, I don’t-“ You bite back.

“So why are you here, then?”

You aren’t sure how to answer, the obvious answer is for Corellia. You were promised something in return for your ability to produce an heir and look like a porcelain figurine on a high shelf. But you also knew it would make your family happy, and your Kingdom. You would be making them proud by marrying so rich. You made a promise.

But now you think you’re starting to stay for an entirely different and unethical reason. Something that is inherently a trap and you know it, and yet here you are, fussing over it at every change you have.

Koska rolls her eyes and scoffs before continuing down the stairs.

“Who spit in your porridge this morning?” You reply.

“You did.” She groans in response.

“I’m sorry, but what did I ever do to you?” You ask when you complete the steps down and start down another corridor, one section of the massive palace closer to your destination.

Koska is the one not to answer this time.

It infuriates you that everyone is keeping secrets from you, your entire experience in Mandalore feels built on deception and being left-out. And now, the two people who finally seemed to be on your side aren’t with you in one way or another on such a big day. Koska is angry with you for no reason and you have no idea where your knight is.

The rest of the walk to the Gardens is silent, and before you know it, you are plopped down on an uncomfortable wicker chair in the hot sun, sipping on lukewarm lemon tea and wondering how much longer you have to suffer. Your mother and Bo were giggling about something, the rest of the court buzzing with conversation and ignoring you as always. Was it possible that you were the problem? You ask yourself this after another sip of the tea, a lemon slice bumping up against your upper lip a few times. As you think, you hold the dainty cup against your mouth, losing yourself in thought without realization. Your pretty eyes stare down at the green grass of the Garden. The grass never gets green back home.

You start subconsciously bouncing your leg as you thought to yourself. Everyone seemed to ignore expect for Korkie and your Knight— who both want to fuck you. Maybe that was the only desirable thing about you. This wasn’t the first time you felt insecure about the relationship you have developed with the Knight. He’s so quiet, so different from you. Were you falling for a trick?

Was he?

Tea must have gone by fast because just before the pearls of your dress start to burn against your arms from the heat exposure, you’re excusing yourself and wandering back inside.

“Strange girl.” One of the noble ladies says to Bo when you walk away. You don’t hear it, you can’t hear anything except for your deafening thoughts.

“Are you sure she’s the one for your nephew?” Another asks. If you had known your mother was silent for all of this in fear of losing her reputation or even the deal between Corellia and Mandalore, you would have been furious.

“Well his father was an outcast, too.” One chuckles. “I guess you Kyrze’s attract the wallflowers.” A few hummed in amused response.

“Well his father wasn’t just an outcast, he was a downright scandal-“

“My sister loved him, and that is all that matters.” Bo interrupts. The laughter quickly dies out.

“Don’t tell me you believe in love, too.” One laughs.

“You aren’t married, what could you know of love?” The same one bo interrupted says.

“I do believe in love, which is why I am not married.” The Queen reiterates. “And I don’t think she’s the right fit for my Nephew, she’s too… outspoken. He needs someone who won’t outshine him.” They chuckle again, all do but your mother, who is still meekly silent.

“Well with the engagement Ball tonight, it is far too late to back out now.” One teases, and the laughter only grows.

Bo-Katan stares in the direction you left.

You huff down the hall, your arms folded and neck sweaty from the heat. You are looking back and forth, studying the layout of the hall in search of something. You’re looking for the smallest idea of where the knight could be but you aren’t very successful.

While all the fully armored guards of the Mandalorian palace are dressed identically, you are almost certain you would be able to spot your boy in a crowd of a thousand of them. You aren’t sure why, but there is something different about him, something that sticks out from the rest. Somehow you two were connected, and it made it so he was always plaguing your mind, even when you are with your literal fiance. Even when you are far away from him and have no clue where he is for the first time in two weeks.

Separation Anxiety.

You aren’t watching where you’re going, which makes you run into a tall, lanky boy. You yelp out in apologetic surprise, looking up at the person blocking your stressed search. A blonde boy flips around to look at you and you’re half expecting to see Korkie but it isn’t.

His Cousin, Hugo, looks down at you with his same charming smirk as always.

“Princess!” He bows.

“My apologies, Hugo!” You exclaim.

“Oh please, you are perfectly fine. You looked distressed? I hope It was not something I did?”

“Of course not!” You reassure, awkwardly smiling. “Uh- may i ask what you were doing in the center of the corridor?”

He chuckles, “Admiring this art.” He nods to an expansive, framed oil painting on the wall. It was of a tall man with a long face and alarming smirk. What stuck out to you, however, was that he held in both hands the same black sword from the royal portraits upstairs by the war room.

“The art is beautiful here.” You smile.

“Yes, my Aunt Satine worked hard to make it culturally rich.”

“Did you know her?”

“Yes, I am a bit older than Korkie, and I knew her for several years before she passed.”

“Are you… second in line?”

“I am.” He says with a classic amused smirk.

“So maybe you can answer a question for me, then.” You ask as you look up at the art. “What in the world is that?” You ask in reference to the blade.

“That, my foreign Princess, is the Dark Sword of Mandalore.”

“The what?” You cluelessly ask.

“A sacred weapon that the rightful ruler possesses, it’s rather powerful.”

“I’ve never seen anything like it before.” You look up at it in awe.

“Hah, yes. It is made of pure obsidian. The white is enchanted quartz veins. It is practically invincible, an elven Mand’alor forged it when he was just a boy.”

“What? There were Mandalorians who were part elf?” You ask, your eyes peeling off of the art and onto your companion.

He looks at you almost confused, “There is much you do not know about my Kingdom?”

“No… I’m afraid not.” You shamefully admit.

“Most don’t,” He shrugs and returns to the conversation unbothered, “It’s history is rather complicated.”

The two of you were quiet for a long time. Your eyes were glued to the stern face of the man in the portrait. You wondered who he was. Hugo is the first to speak up.

“You played beautifully last night.” You doubted he didn’t notice the incorrect notes and mistakes you made several times, maybe he was just being polite by ignoring them. You turn to look at him and smile kindly.

“As did you.” You return the compliment. He looks at you, and you must have been distracted by something other than him because you weren’t aware that his eyes were darting between your eyes and your lips.

Hugo forces a kiss on you.

Just like how Korkie did a few weeks ago in the library. It’s fast because you angrily pull away just as fast as he placed it on you.

“What?” You say like an idiot, looking up at him in shock.

“Oh come on, don’t tell me you don’t feel it?” He gets defensive immediately. The worst part is that it wasn’t even that bad of a kiss, much softer than Korkies, but nowhere as tender as the kisses the Knight would lay on you in the water or behind a closed door. Your entire body seemed to seize up, and you couldn’t get any words out. Not any words that you wanted to say. You just looked up at him, vulnerable and confused. He leans down to do it again but you’re able to turn your head to the side, keeping his lips off of you.

“I am… in love with another man.” You say, clearing your throat.

“You and I both know that isn’t my cousin.”

No use denying it at this point, “yes, but I am still engaged to him. I cannot just be disloyal to the future Mand’alor.” You mutter, embarrassed but trying to keep your cool. You knew you were lying, because you weren’t staying loyal to Korkie. No, you were outright cheating on him and you were falling in love with the boy you were cheating with. You were falling in love. You were very exposed, after all. Anyone could turn the corner or look through the windows and see you. It was different this time, however. Usually hiding your kisses are exciting, but that was only with the Knight. “Please,” You voice betrays you, and the emotional shake is heard through your clenched jaw, “Excuse me.” You push passed him frustratedly, making sure to shove him over a little with your shoulder. You angrily walk back to your room, finally getting there without help for the first time.

When you turned down the Corridor to your suite, you were hoping to see the beskar-clad boy who held you last night, but he still wasn’t there. You hold back emotional tears, but not seeing the one who brings the most comfort to you makes you break. Two crystal tears roll down your cheeks.

You have been taken advantage of too many times in this forsaken castle.

You pull open the door, the golden afternoon light reflecting warmly off of the gold-leafed furniture and decorations is a stark contrast from the bleak hallway. Your bed has been made, and things have been tidied up since you were in here last. You flop onto the mattress, your arms stretched out from your sides, looking up at the sheer canopy above where you lay.

Two hours pass. You think you fell asleep but you cannot remember. If you did, no dreams were had.

Soniee opens your door with trepidation after two soft knocks, “Princess, It is time to prepare for the ball.” Her voice is so timid. You twist your head to look at her, the other ladies from this morning were behind her. Koska was not with them.

You sit up from the bed, rubbing a crook in your neck from how you were laying...

—

authors note (again): i know this isn’t the best chapter ending but ya know... IT WASNT SUPPOSED TO BE

Anyways..... see you tomorrow? i guess? haha

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part twelve