Look as Good as the Day I Met You

[Coren Starchaser]

At this point, he couldn’t even really remember the bet that they had going on. All he remembered was the conclusion of the Mr. Heartbeat and a whole lot of credits being tossed around. Both for the fundraiser, then for a hotel room, and then for the mini-bar. But the next few days was filled with filing leave requests, setting up his forwarding and leaving his second in command in charge. He knew that if it came to it, [member="Mazik Stazi"] would call him, and it’d route to Porter and Coren would end up taking it. But maybe, just maybe, for a weekend, Starchaser could not be the General, the Crusader, the Soldier.

He could just be.

And that was why he and Celeste had landed here. Sure they took his freighter, which was freshened up a bit, but Starchaser was taking a big risk and change of character just being here, he was going to take his ship. But lucky for the Silver Jedi Healer, they weren’t staying in its Spartan quarters. But nope, they had promised each other a vacation, a weekend away, and the pair had settled into a bit of an expensive resort hotel over looking one of Spira’s famous beaches. They had a small resort town, there was sailing, the beach, so many things to do. But after checking in, Starchaser was ready for a bit of exploring and some food. Dressed in a light outfit, white button down, khaki colored pants, he was looking a far stretch from how he normally was. Smiling as he and Celeste walked hand in hand, he looked at her. “Hungry yet?”

He could sure go for some food. Even just take-away so they could walk and talk, and enjoy the weather and peace.

[member="Celeste Rigel"]

 

[Celeste Rigel]

Celeste was still in mild shock.

She was here on Spira with [member="Coren Starchaser"]... for a vacation. True, she'd been the one to make the bet and wager vacation, but there had been part of her that doubted it would happen. Not that she doubted Coren himself, she didn't – but he certainly did keep rather busy with all of that war. Leave papers had been filed on his part, and she had arranged for coverage of her shifts for the weekend.

The trip hadn't been bad, though Coren's ship was a bit rough around the edges. It seemed to fit him quite well though, she had to admit. She had only called home to her parents one time to check in on Atticus, and she had been assured multiple times that everything would be fine.

Okay.

Okay, for the weekend, she wasn't mom, she wasn't Chief Healer... she was just Celeste. It was hard for her to unwind, but she had a feeling that Coren would help with that. Together, they looked the part of a normal couple, tourists on holiday. His casual outfit was matched by her own, a simple breezy shirt-dress and a pair of sandals.

“Starving, actually.” She said, fixing him in a fond gaze. “What are you in the mood for?”

Down the sidewalk, there were several small vendors set up. Surely they could find something.

 

[Coren Starchaser]

It was a good feeling, being around Celeste, being away from the galaxy at large. The wars out there seemed to not touch the world of Spira. It was one of those getaway worlds. He knew he had his lightsaber in the hotel suite, and the personal armory aboard the Tachyon Rising. He was hopeful that nothing would happen, but it was Coren, and there was always something. The Jedi Masters were finally having the time to themselves, without needing to be anywhere the next few days. A beach, resort eating, and each other.

Spira was a great world, and very starkly different than his freighter, or most of what the Outer Rim Coalition had to offer. The Alliance had resort worlds, the Silvers and the Levantines did as well, but maybe it was just the attitude of the Coalition. He had some experience with them, but this one was a bit different. He wasn’t even sure whos space they were in.

He didn’t care.

Pulling her to him, he smiled, his hands on her hips. “Well, I know what I really want, but from the stands?” He looked over her shoulder, focusing hard on not letting his hands wander. “Lots of street food here.” Find something, take, find a spot to eat, and enjoy each other.

[member="Celeste Rigel"]

 

[Celeste Rigel]

This was certainly a change. Hand in hand with Coren Starchaser, walking the scenic streets of Spira. She breathed a sigh, smiling. And that smile only grew as Coren pulled her close, Celeste let her arms wind around his middle.

“Goodness,” She said, following an expression of mock-reproach. But, a light blush still formed on her cheeks. This rosy complexion was a fairly common occurrence. After all, the two had been spending more and more time together as of late. However, a vacation away was still a step for them or perhaps something like a milestone. The girlish thoughts filled her mind and for a moment, she felt young again. Yes, this was something they should have done together when they were younger, she mused.

“Mm,” She nodded when Coren mentioned the street food. “It smells good.”

On Kashyyyk, the two of them together this way would certainly have drawn some wide-eyed stares... but here on Spira, it was probably an everyday sight. No one seemed to pay them any mind, even as they filed past the couple on their way to the beach.

Celeste wound her arm around Coren's, and she lingered close to his side as they started to walk again. She paused at a vendor and ordered a plate of small tacos. “Shall we get a few things to share?”

[member="Coren Starchaser"]

 

[Coren Starchaser]

Smiling, he was enjoying the time away, and the peace of the world. Sure, if he looked hard enough, and beneath the glitz and glam? He’’d find someone who was being hassled, someone who could use a few extra credits. But he was a Jedi, not a charity. He could help certain people, but he restricted himself to helping those who needed his unique skillset. Soldiering and providing Force based support. Piloting, and exploring. He’d come and break a blockade, but he wasn’t going to police a world. He was a Watchman. He could help support efforts, but he wasn’t going to solve every little problem.

A wink followed her faux shock of his comment. Really, what about their time together, in public or private, was stating that he was ever respectable, he always made something a bit of a joke, and a bit inappropriate. The Jedi nudged her as she blushed, really enjoying their time together. It felt simple. And maybe more removed from the galaxy’s conflict. Especially as she wasn’t in all the battlefields he was in.

“It does smell good, lots of variety.” He said as they walked ahead. The pair were a couple on vacation. That allowed them a certain degree of freedom here. Sure, he wasn’t going to be the young 20-something who was going to grab her rear, but he was refraining, at least here. Maybe if no one was around. As they grabbed some tacos, and she suggested a few dishes, he nodded. “Tacos, what else? Some drinks, I think.”

[member="Celeste Rigel"]

 

[Celeste Rigel]

Holding the plate of tacos, she looked down at the grilled tortillas that were covered with a colorful array of toppings. It definitely looked and smelled delicious. She glanced down the line of vendors and squinted. A few options did stick out to the healer, and she turned back to Coren with a smile.

“You get the drinks,” She said, and then nodded towards the beach. “Let's meet back over there.”

Celeste gave his arm a squeeze and then walked down the street in the opposite direction. She stopped at a vendor and purchased a rather tempting cup of tropical fruit. The healer woman was fond of lighter fare, and this fit the bill. But, before she could go too far... something else caught her eye.

“Oh,” She blinked and found that she was already moving in that direction. “I'll take a box, please.”

Tucking the cup of fruit into the crook of her arm, she balanced dishes carefully as she made her way towards the beach. She chose a spot that had a little sun and the shade of a palm tree. Celeste had a seat on the sand, tucking her legs in a ladylike fashion.

[member="Coren Starchaser"]

 

[Coren Starchaser]

Street food always seemed like the best options. Even in these tropical areas, where food was much more fresh, much more well known. When it had to travel, people didn’t grow up with it, they didn’t have their grandparents’ recipes. But in places like this? Where everyone lived the land and had the connection to it? He was more than happy to be fed by these locals. He nodded as he gave Celeste’s cheek a kiss.

“You got it.” Stepped away down to the next booth. Taking a peak back at Celeste as she walked down the street, he found a place with some frozen drinks, and a few different bottles. He grabbed two of the fruity frozen drinks and a bottle of a tropical wine. Citrus wines were a bit different, but maybe they’d be spending some time on the beach before hitting up the hotel room. Sunset and all. He smiled as he paid and got back to his feet.

He tossed a few credits up. Had to convert his Outer Rim talons over. Wasn’t exactly making money on the deal, but it was fine. He was enjoying himself, and that was what was important. Bottle under his arm, and two drinks in his hands, he smiled as he passed people, making his way to where he could just feel Celeste was. Lost in the crowd.

But he made his way through them and saw Celeste. “Nice spot.” He handed her drink over. “And in case we say longer.” He held up the bottle with a smile before sitting close to her. "This all looks good!"

[member="Celeste Rigel"]

 

[Celeste Rigel]

Celeste glanced down the beach, where there were other couples seated in the sun. The sight made her smile, but it also made her think. Were they like these other couples? Maybe, just for the weekend, they were. In the back of her mind, she knew that they could never really be that carefree. But, she made a silent vow to make the most of this time together.

She looked up as Coren approached, a smile found her lips.

Accepting the drink, she took a sip. The frozen beverage was refreshing, perfect for a warm day. And her brows lofted upon seeing the wine. “Good idea,” She said, giving a nod of approval. As he had a seat, Celeste moved closer, so that her arm was next to his. “Tacos, some fruit, and... dessert.”

She opened the lid to reveal the fresh donuts. “They looked too good to pass up,” She said, chuckling. Situating the food before them, Celeste was ready to feast. The warmth of the sand was relaxing, the tension in her shoulders began to ease. Plucking up a strawberry from the cup of fruit, she held it up to Coren.

“So, what's the plan for tonight?” She asked, leaning in slightly.

[member="Coren Starchaser"]

 

[Coren Starchaser]

Between the pair, there was definitely a zest to explore and experience the world around them. It felt good to be away from it all. He wasn’t sure if he could get used to it, but maybe. Maybe one day he could fall into the role of a leader. Not always from the front line, but one who was there to advise, to teach, and to mediate, while others fought his wars. One day, that was the goal. To be there, the voice behind it, and have people listen.

But today? That was far away, not because it couldn’t happen, but because he was actually enjoying himself, and relaxing. He smiled, a bit lopsided, not that he needed to have a drink, but it was vacation, and they both needed to unwind from time to time. And they did earn it. With everything the pair had gone through, not necessarily together, but in general.

“They do!” He smiled, looking at the donuts. All sorts of goodies today. As she held up a strawberry, the Master leaned in to take a bite from it, tossing her a wink. Looking into her eyes, he shrugged, but even now, his deep blue eyes seemed a bit cold, and hard. Though the rest of his face didn’t give that impression off at all.

“What do you say to checking out the night life?”

[member="Celeste Rigel"]

 

[Celeste Rigel]

Celeste smiled, and she chuckled softly as Coren winked at her. Meeting his gaze, she almost became lost in the blue-hue. She got chills, the good kind. Despite the chill of his eyes, there was certainly warmth in his expression. Her lashes fluttered as he suggested checking out the nightlife, his voice drawing her back to the moment.

“Night life?” She asked, arching her brows.

The healer canted her head to the side slightly, thinking. Kashyyyk certainly wasn't known for night life, and her trips away had been so few. Not to mention the fact that was was a mother, moms rarely got to out.

“I can't even remember the last time I went out...” She trailed off. Celeste tucked a few strands of hair behind her ear, and her hand trailed down the side of her neck. Normally, she would have said no, in favor of turning in early. But, this was a weekend for experiencing new things, having fun, and maybe venturing outside of her comfort zone. After all, Coren would be there with her... and she always had fun when they were together. Sure,” She nodded. “Let's do that.”

Just what was the night life like here on Spira? She wasn't sure.

“Just... nowhere too loud or rowdy,” She said, probably showing her age. But, she smiled and lifted a taco from the plate.

[member="Coren Starchaser"]

 

[Coren Starchaser]

A bit of a youthful smirk came across Coren’s features for a moment. He was enjoying he closeness that the pair were experiencing. It was something he hadn’t felt to this level, or with the feeling of missed connection fulfilled, in… well, ever. There as something with everyone he’d been with, but this felt different, maybe they were different enough where it was two pieces of a puzzle meeting, instead of finding the piece that was similar to you.

When she questioned night life, he just tossed a grin her way and smiled. She wasn’t on Kashyyyk, and they weren’t on some Outer Rim no-where world. Spira had a lot of people on it, most seeking vacation, but there was something about taking some time out, dancing, drinking, enjoying time together. He knew it may make her miss home, and Atticus, but Starchaser was exactly that, A wanderer, one who found solace between the stars. Now, that didn’t mean he didn’t have his preferred ports-o-call, and ‘Port Wherever Celeste Was’ was quickly joining the ranks of D’Qar, Terminus, and Sullust.

Spira had something different to offer, and Coren wanted to see what it was. Plus, any time trying something new with Celeste would be fun.

“Shouldn’t be too bad. Not sure this island is the one all the university students come to.” At least he hoped not. Imagine either of them in some club with a bunch of late teens and early 20s? Yeah, it’d remind him why he did what he did, but maybe in the worst way. “No, we’ll find somewhere nice, some dancing, and be home… sometime before the sun comes up.” He laughed as he grabbed some more fruit, watching her.

[member="Celeste Rigel"]

 

[Celeste Rigel]

Celeste held a hand to her mouth as she chuckled. Hopefully the university students went elsewhere, she wasn't sure how much of that she could take. Youth. And not the cute kind of youth, like younglings. She eyed Coren very fondly as he suggested finding a nice place, and her brows arched slightly.

“Dancing?” She gave a nod of approval. “That could be fun. We didn't get to dance much at the prom.”

Well, they had... after the prom. She'd had her fill of tacos and fruit, and now sat with her frosty drink in hand. Shifting, she stretched her legs out in front of her and crossed them at the ankles. She also leaned slightly against Coren as she drew a breath and took in the scenery. The calm blue water, the cloudless sky, and the soft breeze, it was perfect.

They hadn't even been on Spira very long and she was already feeling a bit guilty for enjoying it so. It was silly, she had to admit. But, that's how her mind worked. And, it was exactly why the healer woman needed this vacation. It would do her well to unwind a bit, right?

“Should we stay to watch the sunset?” She asked, tilting her head. “Quite romantic, isn't it?”

Celeste leaned in slightly, as if to kiss him -- but paused, taking the moment to simply take in his presence.

[member="Coren Starchaser"]

 

[Coren Starchaser]

Coren could almost guarantee where the students were going. What he didn’t want was them to be all around a lot of loud heavy drinkers. Starchaser didn’t really get into it too much any more. He was part of the Coalition, so he knew what he could do, and where his limits were. What he didn’t want to do was hit them. Or get too crazy with Celeste around. Not like prom night.

Or afterwards.

“Yeah, Somewhere nice, maybe not too high class, and now too low class.” Maybe low class enough, but they’d probably have to get changed? He wasn’t sure. The man was finishing up his meal with her and just enjoying her company. When he took a look around, he was really enjoying the time here. He understood why he needed a vacation, and why she probably did too.

“I definitely think we should. We have a few nights here, but lets enjoy them as well as we can.” He winked at her as he leaned in to give her a kiss before leaning against the tree. The sun was nice, and he finally felt relaxed.

[member="Celeste Rigel"]

 

[Celeste Rigel]

Celeste's eyes closed blissfully as Coren closed the small gap and kissed her. Eyelashes fluttered softly, and she drew in a gentle breath. As Coren settled with his back against the tree trunk, Celeste shifted slightly to get comfortable at his side. Slipping under his arm, she moved in close and let her head rest against his shoulder.

“It's a good thing I won that bet, isn't it?” She asked, tilting her head slightly and fixing him in a sidelong glance. Though, she'd still let him chose the location. He was better versed in galaxy travel, after all. With the golden hue of the sun on their skin, the warmth was almost comfortable enough for her to drift off to sleep.

But, it was their first night here on Spira and Celeste figured that she should at least try to stay up past her bedtime. The older she got... the harder it was. This was usually about the time that Atticus went to sleep, she was usually close behind, though she did try. And she'd normally end up sleeping a few hours on the couch. Well, unless Coren was around, that is. Just maybe, the frozen drinks and wine would give her some energy to get through the night. As she turned her eyes towards the blue of the sea, she blinked as a thought occurred.

“Maybe we should go out on the water tomorrow,” She said, looking out at the sea. “Think we could?”

[member="Coren Starchaser"]

 

[Coren Starchaser]

It was nice to not have to worry. He wasn’t going to be worried if he had kissed her back at the Heartbeat, what was the worst that could happen? He’d get teased? Oh boo hoo. Coren could totally deal with that. He was a soldier, a pilot, and a fighter. Showing moments where he was human would be good for morale, right? Didn’t matter. His arm moved around Celeste as she leaned against him.

“I distinctly remember myself winning.” Tossing her a wink and kissing her forehead. Didn’t really matter, one way or the other, they’d probably have ended up here anyway. Or some other, equally worthy-of-a-long-weekend-together world. He hoped she wasn’t going to fall asleep, not yet. Their first day back to work would be interesting,

He sipped his drink as she looked out to the water. The sun was low already. “You thinking we get a boat? Or do you wanna do the beach and get some swimming in?” Regardless, Starchaser was happy to get in the water. It was where his family traditionally started all their adventures, before the advent of spaceflight. So he made sure he was versed on the water.

Weird skill in this day and age.

[member="Celeste Rigel"]

 

[Celeste Rigel]

Watching the sunlight shimmer on the waves, she sat in thoughtful silence for a few moments. “A boat, perhaps,” She said, smiling at Coren. It was sot of a quaint thing nowadays. With all of the many options for galaxy travel, fancy ships, and other vehicles, how many people took the time to just sit atop the water? Probably not that many. But, she figured it would be quite easy in a place like this.

“Something big enough to have a deck,” She noted. “You think you can drive one?”

Celeste nudged him playfully and chuckled softly. Of course, he could, he was a good pilot. She figured the skills would translate well enough. Still, it was fun to issue him a small challenge every now and then. It was something that seemed to happen when they were together -- from their sparring to Mr. heartbeat to now. His presence brought out different qualities in Celeste. Confidence, bravery, and a bit of fun. And, she happened to remember something she'd heard in passing.

“There are some small islands close by, aren't there? Maybe we can do some exploring or just find a quiet place to do some sunbathing.” It was Celeste's turn to wink.

[member="Coren Starchaser"]

 

[Coren Starchaser]

Sometimes I was better to do something a bit different. They’d taken time to do a few things, but the beach and some swimming and diving would be very neat, and relaxing. But one of the better things would be to take a boat out. Would give them a bit longer time out there, a meal or two, depending on what they wanted to do. He was, of course, thinking of something that’d give them a day or so out at sea, but they didn’t need that, but something with some privacy wouldn’t be bad.

“I can drive just about anything. Grew up sailing out of Tyrena.” Back on Corellia. Before his father had mother had to run due to their Jedi-status. Well, at least his father’s. “Depends what they have for boats here.” Sailing was one thing, motorboats were something else. But he was pretty confident he could do both. Even if it had been… years.

“Yeah, saw them coming in from overhead. We could get there, have a bit of our own private island for a good part of the day.” He grinned as he hugged her close as they watched the sunset. "Could leave early in the morning?"

[member="Celeste Rigel"]

 

[Celeste Rigel]

Celeste grinned as Coren spoke. It would be fun to get out and do something unexpected, sure was sure it would only add to their good memories. As he hugged her close, she nestled her head against him and settled in to watch the sunset.

“Sure,” she nodded, “We can leave early... just maybe not too early.”

After all, she had no idea what sort of shape she was going to be in after going out to the clubs tonight. Now, the sun was beginning to dip low, behind the waves, and brilliant hues of orange and pink spread across the sky. Celeste smiled, silently committing the image to memory. Sitting here with Coren, her heart felt content, warm with affection for the man.

Even now, she could feel the subtle flow of the force around them, auras mingling pleasantly. With evening falling upon them, Celeste wrapped her arms around Coren and gave him a squeeze. “Well, shall we go... clubbing, then?” She asked, pulling away slightly to look at him. “You lead the way.”

[member="Coren Starchaser"]

 

[Coren Starchaser]

Enjoying their time. That was what this was all about. And exploring how they were around each other with little or no pressure. Sometimes, situations like the prom or Heartbeat, two very different situations that really illustrated their two galactic factions in their glaring details. But here? It was just them, little chance to run into someone else. It wasn’t something he would mind, being seen with Celeste, but just being alone had its perks.

“Not too early, but if we get out there at the right time, can enjoy most of the day.” He’d have to make a point to reserve one, maybe during a cab ride. To the club, maybe not home. Who knew what time they would be getting out of there. Nights upon nights before he found the Levantines and really came-of-age, he was the type to close down bars. “Do you want to change? I think you look great.” But one never really knew.

“Though I really don’t think its clubbing for us. Live music, and some dancing.” Laughing, he got himself to his feet, and held his hands out for her. He could clearly feel their auras mixing, and was definitely enamored by the woman. Once to their feet, he set about getting a cab.

[member="Celeste Rigel"]

 

[Celeste Rigel]

Celeste took a small glance down at her shirt dress, her hands smoothed down the front. She thought for a moment, but then gave Coren a small shrug. It felt like a lot of effort to go back to their room and get changed. “If you think I look great, then it's settled. We'll go just as we are,” Celeste smiled.

And when he laughed about clubbing, she did, too.

“Good, that definitely sounds more our speed,” Celeste said, chuckling. She reached out and took hold of his hands, and pulled herself up to standing. She dusted the sand off the back of her dress. As Coren set out hailing a cab, she gathered up the remains of their meal and disposed of it. Well, everything but the box of donuts, which she tucked into her tote bag. They would surely make for a good midnight snack, she imagined they'd go well with drinks.

And once their ride pulled up curbside, Celeste slid into the open-air speeder. A hand quickly swept through her brown locks, a bit concerned for her hair to be tousled during their ride. Celeste leaned closed to Coren, smiling up at him.

“Well, I'm sure this will be quite an adventure,” She said. Though, she knew that this was pretty tame compared to Starchaser's usual adventures.

[member="Coren Starchaser"]