The Hope That the Light Brings

[Kay-Larr]

Even though she knew that it was pointless, she did still blame herself for not being able to prevent her capture. If she had used the Force to aid in her escape, she might have reached the mines and avoid his grasp. But Kay knew that the Sith Lord probably would have gotten her anyways. He was much stronger than she was. Although perhaps she didn't break as easily as he had thought. She wasn't sure. But she didn't want herself or anyone that she knows to go through what she did. It had stolen pieces of her soul.

As for rushing herself with healing and caring for herself, Kay didn't have much time to focus on that. With running the CSA through the Senate which was still going through speedbumps in getting underway, plus running Commenor, there had been more nights that she had spent in chairs and couches, rather than the comfort of her own bed. And sleep came in bursts. A few hours here, followed by an hour of worrying, and then a few hours more. Maybe she had taken on too much too quickly.

Kay sipped her tea, taking [member="Veiere Arenais"] ' hand into her own as he spoke of what he was going through. She was glad that the focus was on him now, instead of herself. It was just funny that neither of them wished to be viewed as being selfish, yet in a lot of ways, people would tell them that they weren't selfish enough. "If I wasn't so deep into politics, then I would probably be right by your side, doing whatever I could to help. We're both overwhelmed, and yes, I've longed to have you with me more. But...we both knew what we were getting into when we decided to wed. My first husband wasn't around much either. His work kept him away. But sometimes, distance makes the heart grow fonder. I admire you and look up to you in so many ways. If there were more like you in the Galaxy, it'd be a much better place. Be where your instincts tell you to be at any given moment."

 

[WolfMortum]

"Where I would like to be the most right now is spending the night here with you..." He spoke freely, his thoughts being aired as their company together often brought them peace where their obligations and priorities outside of their relationship forever took the charge in their lives. If only for one night, spending this one with her would alleviate the stress and worry that was weighing him down lately.

"Why don't we go out somewhere for the evening, dine in the public light and remind these people you still have a husband who cares for them almost as much as he does for you. I have truly missed being home" he smiled warily, lifting the glass of brandy back to his lips and taking a slow mouthful, speaking only after he had savored the drop in further thought; "We can toss and turn over our doubts wherever we go but we might as well enjoy the view over Chasin City. I always did like to wander and study the people, watch to see how happy they seemed...", never would he be a King elevated above the needs of his people, nor one who looked down on them.

Veiere often roamed the streets on his own, despite the citizens of Chasin City recognizing him rather easily, perhaps it was his place in the Jedi Order that had kept trouble makers at bay yet he had never come across problems before and had only ever been encouraged to stop and chat with them; there really was nothing like a quiet day in the sun of the Chasin City streets to make him appreciate the things that they had and were able to give for one another.

Smiling back to [member="Lady Kay"] rather more enthusiastic now about the idea of the two going out on a date, he soon questioned when their last romantic outing had been. Had they even had one aside from their wedding night together?

"Come to think of it, when was the last time you and I got out and enjoyed ourselves away from matters bigger than the heart...".

 

[Kay-Larr]

Kay smiled as he expressed his desire to be with her tonight. The rare nights that they were together were always special, and drifting to sleep in his arms was one of her favourite things in all the Galaxy. Even more so than tea.

She perked up at his idea of going out for dinner in the city. So often she dined alone, or usually with a guard or two. But they never ate with her, instead just standing watch as though they were living statues. It was never the same as sharing a meal though. And [member="Veiere Arenais"] was great company to have.

She took a big sip of her tea as she fully intending on finishing it before they would leave. "I would love a dinner date with you. Then we could go out to the Valley of the Storm and watch the flowers change colours when the lightning strikes." Kay didn't go out in public often these days. It wasn't so much that she didn't like to or saw them as being beneath her, it was just that she was too busy and her guards didn't always fancy the idea.

To his inquiry on the last time they went out on a date, she tilted her head slightly in thought. So much had happened, yet it seemed that the few visits that they had together were usually spent at the Palace. "I don't remember...It's been quite some time since we've only done something for ourselves. It's about time that we did something about it." Kay finished her tea, gulping down the rest of it before she got to her feet. "Shall we go now and pick out a spot to eat on our journey through the city?" She wasn't quite sure what type of food he fancied at the moment. For her, it was always bantha steaks and veggies. They were her staple.

 

[WolfMortum]

Veiere chuckled softly to himself, a heart felt moment of amusement and warmth as [member="Lady Kay"]'s mood turned from serious to a more eager and almost child-like excitement that she rarely showed to others. "No time like the present" he agreed, rising to his feet and finishing the last of the Brandy before turning with her to leave. "I can't quite recall the last time we took a simple walk out within the streets of our own world. All the politics of being a monarch and you would think we'd be more comfortable with our own people..." Veiere spoke in open thought as the two left her quarters and began for the open light. In truth he had taken many a walk when he had been there, spending as much time with the common folk so not to allow himself to forget the reason and need for their being in the position they were in.

To guide and care for these people, not to rule over them like some sort of dictators. Kay too felt the same, she lived this as a constant example of her compassion for other peoples yet Veiere often wondered if the prospect of threats against her kept her from leaving without an armed guard or two. Protection was necessary, she of whom would not practice the use of the Force within public; Veiere simply hoped that that kind of intimidating presence didn't change the peoples perception of her. The consistent presence of guards often spelled the expectation of violence or threat from those around the one being protected and here on Commenor, most were nothing if not humble and kind.

Alas it was the attention of the outside governments that the two knew had to be kept in consideration. Many had come to oppose their neutral stance, while a good number supported their wish for peace and co-operation within the galaxy there were darker minds that felt this challenged the balance of things and worked against those with more hostile and self centered ambitions for the worlds around them. Several assassination attempts had been taken out on Kay's life, foiled either by her guard or by Veiere himself whom they had yet to target; the assumption there being his public outing as a Jedi Master of the Order and a man who would go to any means to protect others and himself. Kind hearted and yet a firm hand against oppression and indecency, none had yet to mistake his compassion for weakness as yet.

"Somewhere public, let the people see us dining and enjoying ourselves. It will help to comfort them too. I wouldn't be surprised if we're hassled by local documentary or some such nonsense but otherwise, let's have some fun together love".

 

[Kay-Larr]

Kay grined and got to her feet shortly after [member="Veiere Arenais"] did. She held onto his hand, interlocking her fingers with his own while they left her office. Today has gotten better and better. It was nice to be relieved of her burdens for a short while.

"I would go out more, but when I do I can't go alone. Being kidnapped once already, and that was with protection. The Commenori aren't a threat. It's others...And we can't exactly close our borders." The economy would suffer as a result. And by extension, so would the Commenori. Being a Chancellor didn't decrease her chances of being a target either. Yet with her husband she always felt safe. There was no other place that she'd rather be and no one else that she'd rather be with. He was her rock, her stability, her salvation.

As they neared the main doors of the Palace, Kay looked to the security personnel. "My husband and I are going into the city for dinner. No need for anyone to follow, please."

"That goes against our protocol, M'Lady."

"I know, but I want to enjoy my dinner without staff hovering around."

"Yes, M'Lady." The guard speaking let her go without a further word. It wasn't until Kay and Veiere were out of earshot that he spoke to the other guard. "Have them tailed at a distance by plain clothed guards. It doesn't matter if they think they need us or not." The other nodded and put in the call.

Kay took in the fresh air as they got outside, leaning close against him while they walked. "Somewhere public, hmm? What kind of food do you feel like? And how hungry are you?" That wpuld determine just where they would eat. There were a few popular chains in Chasin City.

 

[WolfMortum]

Out of earshot, yet not out of reach of the Force that Veiere felt flowing around them. Her guards were most loyal and protective of their Queen and yet often as he always felt, they disregarded their King's equal authority to which this time he would not remain silent. Pausing as they were out within the open air, he lead [member="Lady Kay"] aside and raised a finger to his lips quietly asking for silence. It did not take long for the Guards to presume that enough distance was placed between them and their would be guardians, they soon stepping out into the open and grimacing as they turned to find Veiere standing there a little in-front of Kay, his arms crossing his chest and his gaze falling to them sternly. "Your Queen made a request of you. Your King is now giving you the order, return in doors and leave us our company..." his tone had fallen stern, strict as he made his demand quite known. Taken back and clearly not having expected such a run in with the pair, the men all glanced to the right to look to Kay, their Queen. Frustrated by this, feeling as though he shouldn't still have to demand respect in order for his place on the throne to be taken seriously, he added with further weight within his presence, the force swelling to him in the moment, "...Now".

"M'Lord..." They immediately bowed and turned to offer the same to Kay, "M'Lady..." they added almost in tone with one another before stepping backwards and retreating back into the Royal Palace leaving Veiere to turn back to glance to his wife, giving a faint shrug as if to apologize without acknowledging the act in words. Perhaps it was the fact that Kay was more lenient and this leniency worried Veiere some, wishing the best for her and that meaning for her to be respected. Though too could it be in part due to his own doing, his attitude and ideals often pegging him as a man of humble and soft means, though by far did that mean that he was one to be so easily dismissed within his own home, a home that he shared in equal part with his wife now since their formal marriage and one whom they had both fought and bled for, that these guards should recognize their joint leadership as the royal family. Alternatively, the pressure of late could also be the cause of his frustrations getting the better of him, all the more important that their evening be spent enjoying the company of one another away from those of the palace buzzing around like flies on the wall.

"I'm not going to be picky but I would love a good drop of wine...-Why not go somewhere with a bit of class. A good menu might help me decide" he grinned gingerly, lacking the experience of late in really knowing the variety of foods or which restaurants were better than others. "You ought to know a few good places, hm?"

 

[Kay-Larr]

Kay raised a brow as [member="Veiere Arenais"] had them stop. He pulled her aside and urged her to remain silent. It wasn't until the two guards appeared that she understood. She watched as her husband asserted both her authority as well as his own. It wasn't easy, especially Kay tended to get into trouble when she was out in the open. Mac, their Head of Security, gave them orders to have her protected at all times. Yet their King was also a Jedi. That helped them to make their decision to leave. Neither of them wanted to see a Jedi angry afterall.

As he turned towards her, Kay just smiled in a teasing sort of way while she adjusted his robe a bit, straightening it on his chest. "So commanding. I like it." She winked and then hooked her arm in his as they made their way off of the Palace grounds and into the city. Veiere had a strength that she wished that she still had. But that was taken from her during her abduction. Now she just had her stubborness. Although that wasn't entirely a bad thing, there were some times when her stubborness only made situations worse. Like in her dealings with a certain Senator.

"Let's go to Plenty's. Lots of variety there. Even some wines." It wasn't far either, merely six blocks away. At least the night was clear. Even with the city lights, she could make out some of the stars in the sky, holding their positions while the lights from the traffic in orbit had a life of their own. "Thank you. This was a nice idea."

 

[WolfMortum]

Plenty's. It wasn't an establishment he had heard of or been too yet he had rarely been in many restaurants at all when he tried to think back on his time within Chasin City. For the most part Veiere had avoided the City life for the sake of keeping to himself, having left the Republic exile it seemed was his only choice. Looking back, perhaps he should have sought to re-establish the Order as he was doing now yet his faith had been to heavily shattered following the Republics fall and the Alliance's attack against Atrisia. Nodding to [member="Lady Kay"] a little absently, he complied within silence while his mind seemed to linger on the way things had turned out. A Jedi who only wanted to do right by the Order, he felt ostracized due to his adherence to the more traditional teachings. His time spent with the Jedi of the Alliance had been even less than that of the Silver Jedi and since Coci Heavenshield and her family had seemed to distance themselves, all that was left there was Arisa Yune who had lose her temper with him upon Yutan. It didn't leave a great deal of hope in mind for the future of their people...-Nor the students who these days looked to him for guidance.

"I think I need this as much as you do, my love" Veiere spoke softly as the two began to walk out towards the gates leaving the palace grounds and stepping into the streets of the City, the district rather nicer looking than most given it's placement around the heart of Commenori Government. Reaching out to take her hand and lacing his fingers in hers, he looked to his wife while they took their time moving at their own relaxed pace, a slim smile crossing over him as he took in her beauty, marveled by the life he had been given here and yet at a loss as part of him felt guilty for leaving her to pursue his duty to the Force and to the Jedi Order.

"Do you ever find yourself at a loss, Kay..." He spoke again, his eyes glancing back out in-front of them, though taking in little as he seemed to stare off a little more into his own subconscious, his question however genuine and seemingly looking for guidance of his own; "For direction...-Find yourself questioning things that you once felt so adamant about. Things that you believed were life defining and yet still so out of reach in every step taken to pursue these things...Goals, so to speak...".

 

[Kay-Larr]

Kay couldn't help but blush a bit as [member="Veiere Arenais"] gave her that look of his that he always tended to do when he was studying her face. She gave his hand a gentle squeeze and turned her attention to the street ahead of them, basking in the glow of the streetlights, yet making the ocassional glance his way while they walked.

She furrowed her brows a little at his questions, looking for the hidden meaning within them. Was he once again unsure of himself? Their lives were split, duty over personal, but she was determined to make it all work and keep it all together. She wasn't going to lose him like she lost Shaw.

As she answered him, she had to laugh, especially given the events in recent years. "Many time I've felt that way, Veiere. And you're asking someone that was broken down to a shell of herself. Many times in my life I've had to pick up the pieces and start fresh, sometimes with nothing. And now with this Senate already being disfunctional from the start, it doesn't bode well for it. I am trying, working my butt off for it, yet it seems that neither of the choices that I make are the right ones. What kind of a leader does that make me? Should I even be one at all? Yet no matter how many times I leave politics, it just doesn't let me go for long. Much like your desire to pursue the Force in the way that it was meant to. I only wish that our paths were more similar. But maybe that's just not meant to be. We need eachother though, to keep ourselves on the right path, however seperate it might be." Hopefully there'd be a reward in the end for all of this service that they were doing. That they'd be able to retire in peace and solitude together as they used to wish for.

 

[WolfMortum]

"Aye, you've been through some incredibly difficult times and as you are here with me now, together we've overcome everything that's challenged us..." He smiled to her once more, a wary smile however as he had more to say. "What I'm hoping to achieve in the Jedi Order however goes beyond two people, the will of the Force for which we really can only try to interpret in our faith and adherence of the Jedi Code, it expands upon a number of peoples big and small in this galaxy...". His concerns were similar to those on Alzoc Three during the time in which [member="Théodred Heavenshield"] had first met with him, expressed a need for Jedi like Veiere in the galaxy of today. As it was back then, so too had little changed since; he still felt the virtue of the Jedi was so vastly contested and piecing together that broken puzzle of opinions and arguments of right and wrong in the eyes of the Order, it was an unending fight that he knew would eventually see them having to pull away from those alike the Silver Jedi Order. A People whom Veiere had supported since his leave of exile, a people who Théodred himself belonged to and whom his Mother had taken Veiere in during [member="Lady Kay"]'s kidnapping. As a Jedi, such doubts were difficult to accept yet as a man, they were inevitable in the face of such a challenge, already many had told him was impossible.

"I know the path that I walk and I know it leads me into darker times. The Sith Empire is on the rise again and aggression clouds so much ahead of me...-I yearn for the Jedi to remember their former selves, the virtue in their identity and to humble themselves once again..." he paused, his words fading for a time as he reflected on what they few had achieved thus far. "I've questioned whether we can go the distance on our own and I found myself doubting that. Yet I too believe the other organizations want little to do with us. Such is the risk in trying to restore a people to it's former stature, those brought into the new generation see it as a regression, a step back in their beliefs and want little to do with it. Such is their choice and I can respect that; as a Jedi I should be unbiased...-But the Galaxy needs the old ways of our Order, I truly believe it is imperative to the balance in the Force. What can I do but struggle in this...".

 

[Kay-Larr]

Kay stroked the back of his hand with her thumb as they held hands while [member="Veiere Arenais"] spoke of them overcoming everything together. It was true. Together they had beaten the odds on many fronts. It was no wonder that he had proposed to her. She needed him and he needed her. It was just puzzling that their paths weren't more alligned. Without him she was lost. It pained her to think if she would ever lose him as she did her first husband. She would go into exile again and never ever leave it.

Hopefully that would never happen.

She listened to him as he spoke of the future and what he saw. Her own was so cloudy, yet aggression of a different sort plauged her path. "They need to know, the Jedi, of the values that shpuld be held dear. Some crave action so much, they want to be known for being brave, yet instead of preventing trouble, they seem to cause it. Some politicians are the same way. I fear the Senate will go along the same path of the Republic and I don't have enough pull to keep them from that path. I don't have enough support."

She sighed a little. What was she going to do if she failed? Give up and walk away or stay the course and fight her way back up from within? Hopefully she wouldn't have to make that choice.

"I'll be here to help you, always. No matter what, even if I fail on my own path. I will help you with yours. You're never alone, Veiere. I am always there to be by your side, to work along side you. We only want the best for the Galaxy and those within it, without being selfish. It draws others to us. They just have to have the willpower to not lose sight of those goals."

 

[WolfMortum]

Veiere Arenais returned to her a smile in appreciation though he knew not whether he liked the sound of [member="Lady Kay"]'s willingness to help him in the Jedi Path. At times he had hoped that she might eventually fall into his course and choose to turn away from the politics of the galaxy and pursue a life of justice and morale living among others who would help her to do what's right rather than merely speak of it, yet politics was a means of talking others into action too, despite the fact that everyone in and around her in a seat of government had twice as much reason to succeed for their own gain than that of the common people.

"There's been times where I've wanted to see you join the Jedi Order and help me to lead it. Had you gone the distance to complete your training the integrity is already there within you giving you the potential to become a great member of the Order and an advocate for peace..." He spoke his mind on the matter though there was another side to it as well; "And yet knowing the struggles I've faced, the people I've had to fight and those that I've lost...-The conflict within, doubts, concerns, the dark side forever trying to combat my willingness and faith in serving the light...-I soon find myself wondering how I could ask that upon you...-Or our child..." If she really was pregnant then that was a whole other side of the coin that cemented her need to steer clear of the Jedi. To protect this child, the two of them as strong as they were together, Veiere would not want the same life for them.

"Over time we will grow, but I wonder what will become of the other circles of Jedi in the Galaxy. Will we ever really come close to convincing them to unite with one another..." He shook his head slowly, for he did not believe that was possible anymore. Once upon a time in the Republic, certainly, but not now. Not after Atrisia nor his last conclave. "The Galaxy's heading to a worse place, Kay..." He spoke quietly under his breath now, his mind moving to the growing feeling he had been getting of late, the way a cloud hung over the horizon and blacked out the sun, their future remained shrouded and he knew the peace they had fought so hard for on Commenor wouldn't last.

 

[Kay-Larr]

Kay smiled a little as they walked, thinking of herself and [member="Veiere Arenais"] leading the Jedi together, helping to restore peace in the Galaxy without creating conflict. It was a wonderful dream, one that would see them spending more time together. Or rather that was the theory. The truth to that kind of a future was that they'd still probably be going in their own direction, one staying at the Temple while the other travels the Galaxy. It was just the way of things.

She frowned slightly as he spoke of his struggles, knowing full well what she had faced. Kay had failed in her attempts to keep the Darkside at bay. She was stripped bare of all hope and in the end, the Darkside was the only way for her to survive. Death didn't plague her. It wasn't a matter of Darkside or death. It was a matter of the Darkside or neverending torture. After four months of it, she could bear it no longer. There were times at night when she had wondered how long Veiere would have lasted. More than likely his willpower would've been stronger.

The mention of their child caused her to do a double-take. For the moment she had forgotten that part, the small clue into a lifechanging future for them that was revealed in her vision. What would it be like if it was true? Would she be more sheltered? Would she have to leave the Senate? There was no one that she trusted to rule in her stead. At least not yet. Although having their own child would be wonderful, it worried her too.

That worry was amplified as Veiere spoke of a darker future in front of them. She knew what that meant; more war, more violence, more death and pain. To add a child into the mix might be seen as cruel.

There had to be another way though, another way of looking at it. Being a politician, she was always in the pursuit of alternatives to achieve her goals. It was part of what made her so stubborn.

Kay let go of his hand and wrapped her arm around his waist as she stepped closer to him while they walked, moving his arm around her shoulders so that she could feel the protection of his embrace. "I know it is. I can feel it and almost see it. And it worries me that we'll be caught in it's spiral with no way out but down into the heart of it. Though I worry more for you, that you'll lose a part of yourself in the path laid at your feet. Would a child change that? I don't know. I don't have the gift of foresight and those that did couldn't see what lay ahead of me anyways. But I'll never give up on you, never lose hope, no matter what happens, even if you lose hope in yourself. I will be there to help you find it again as you did for me." She wouldn't allow him to cast her aside. He was far too important to her.

 

[WolfMortum]

"Bringing Children into this life will change everything for us, Kay...-Who's to say whether it will be for the better or not" He spoke honestly, though for better or worse, it was all circumstantial so long as they were talking figuratively; "Where would we wish for them to grow up, Commenor? The Jedi Order? Besieged on all sides by opposition and faced with the paths that you and I walk down. While the Jedi Order is a necessity for the sake of the Galaxies best interests and safety, a life of constant risk and being robbed of their upbringing is not what I would wish upon my own flesh and blood"; perhaps this was one of the reasons Jedi were discouraged from procreating. They knew the path they walked and knew the risks that came with every day. How could you come to love something or someone so, and yet wish for them to stand in front of oppression every hour that they sought to breath. "Hypocritical, I know..." He glanced back at her bobbing his head in something of a pessimistic sideways nod of indifference, "Yet the struggles that I face, I've chosen to stand against. A Child has no choice, they would rely completely upon our decisions over their being raised...Frankly it's difficult to know where they would be safest".

Veiere took her under his left arm as they walked, Kay having clung to his side and causing his eyes to drop, trying to gauge her feelings on the subject while the little company out and about would pass them by, the storefronts and general locale of the capital city bringing about both more life and yet also a sense of normality in their being together; taking a simple stroll down the sidewalk like any other would-be civilian despite the ground they walked upon belonging to them.

"Commenor's doing well, the planet is beautiful and the people are civil and warm, inviting even" Veiere smiled faintly as he turned his attention to the city street, a farcry from the wondrous natural life that covered the green and blue globe, yet it held it's own pleasantries as the people all seemed to smile to the pair and greet them on their way towards the Restaurant. "We know this world better than we know or can see the futures surrounding any others, they would be best here with you and I would need to reconsider my position over the Jedi...".

[member="Lady Kay"]

 

[Kay-Larr]

Having children did seem kind of selfish, given how bad things were in the Galaxy. But for so long she thought herself as being incapable and worthless as a result. [member="Veiere Arenais"] understood and accepted her inability to conceive. But now that it seemed as though she was able to bear children all along, Kay wondered if they really should. Yes, she wanted Veiere's bloodline to continue, as well as the core values that he held onto, the Galaxy needed it and people like him, just as she needed him. So was it selfish to try to ensure that it happens?

Veiere was right too. Forcing their dangers onto their children would not be the right thing to do. Fortunately Commenor had no enemies, but who's to say how long that would last?

Kay met the eyes of those that watched them walk the streets, something that they hadn't seen her do in some time. She gave them small smiles and little bows of her head, though she kept most of her focus on the conversation at hand.

They were near Plenty's, the vibrant restaurant with it's illuminated sign now visible just a block away. Kay looked up to her husband as he spoke of reconsidering his position over the Jedi. It shocked her, as she knew that it was the path he had chosen. It would be unfair for her to cause him to walk away from that. "After all that we've done--you've done for them, you're not going to consider leaving them, are you? They need your guidance and your ability to keep them grounded, to stop them from jumping into one violent confrontation to the next." But that same guidance and abilities would be needed as their child or children grew up.

Kay rested her head against him, now unsure as to whether or not being able to bear children was a good thing or not. One thing was for sure. Having children would change everything for them.

 

[WolfMortum]

Walking into the establishment dubbed "Plenty's" the pair were immediately greeted at the front desk and soon joined by a personal waiter, their positions over Commenor well and easily recognized for which they were allowed to cut in front of whatever queue was in place and thus be seated in one of the more private dining area's. [member="Lady Kay"]'s surprise over his suggestion that the Order might need to be pushed back should they be graced with children of their own came as an obvious shock, she whom looked to her husband in both disbelief and uncertainty; however he had fallen silent on the subject for the time that they would be led to their table and asked for which they might like to order among the menu of drinks and entree's.

Lifting his menu so that their waiter might eye the desired drink, he pointed to the Commenori Whiskey for which he added, "Better make it a double" with a faint smile, the younger man nodding, eager to appease them before moving to Kay's side as she then sought to order her own chosen preference. Watching and listening though not really hearing anything that was being said, Veiere's attention seemed to shift mostly in of himself as he considered the possible consequences for what the discussed future might mean for them. It was becoming ever more obvious that without him standing beside Kay over the governance of Commenor and the organization of the Commenor Systems Alliance, she was indeed struggling and had grown to miss and almost resent the amount of time that they were apart. He couldn't remember the last time the pair of them had shared a night such as this one out in public and the times they had reunited after weeks or even months of Veiere's serving the Order, it almost always concerned the needs of others or matters of priority to the paths that they both followed, so little time to actually dedicate to their marriage and personal time.

Movement caught him off guard and glancing up, he opened his mouth almost mouthing the word 'what?' in surprise only to find that the waiter was leaving them be for the time being and that his wife was watching him thoughtfully like she always did when we lost himself to his thoughts. Tilting his head to the side a little, he offered a half smile as if to silently apologize before dropping his eyes to the table in a moments consideration over the words to follow. "None of what we've done thus far has been easy. You've struggled with the Senate and I've been away from you so long and so frequently that my position of King here over the Commenori people is fairly useless. If my doubts aren't a sign of my uncertainty over the path that I have followed then I don't know...-I see the struggles and face them alike those of Mantic Dorn during the Republic's decline. I see Organizations of Jedi circling around my own that seem to want little to do with us and all the while I'm watching and sensing the fight you're consistently having to battle to fight the indifference among your Senators. If you were to be with-child, a great deal would have to change. This kind of stress and the doubt that surrounds us both would need to be challenged, if not for our sake then the child's".

 

[Kay-Larr]

[member="Veiere Arenais"] was quiet as they walked in, though that was more to her. With the staff of Plenty's he was incredibly kind and she understood why he paused in their conversation. Kay sat herself down at the table, their waiter having pulled out her chair for her.

As Veiere ordered his drink, she wasn't surprised at all that he chose alcohol. It tended to sooth him and their topics of choice weren't exactly light ones. However if she was with child, she had to stay away from such drinks. At least she couldn't be denied her favourite. "I'd like to have some water and some Sapir tea please. And if you don't mind, please inform the other guests that we will be paying for their meals tonight in thanks for all of their hard work." The waiter smile widened as his mind went straight to the thought of how much tips he was going to make this evening. Everyone was going to be happy with the idea of a free meal and happy people tended to be very generous with their tips. He nearly skipped as he set off to fulfill their drink orders and to relay the good news.

Kay looked to Veiere then, studying him ashe had lost himself in thought. He didn't seem to hear anything that went on in those moments and as he gave her that apologetic look, she could only smile at him, her eyes twinkling with laughter. But then he lowered his gaze and took a more serious tone. Her smile dropped, the twinkle fading as he spoke of their struggles and of how useless he felt as a leader to both his Order and to Commenor. She cleared her throat a bit and spoke softly, almost as though she didn't want others to overhear. "I struggle yes, but such is the way with politics. You don't like politics, you never have and you didn't want the position of King either. You only took it because we wed, though you had no desire to rule. And I respected that. I wish every visit could be just about us, and I just feel guilty when it isn't. I don't...I don't want to be the blame for you stepping away from the Jedi. I don't want you to be unhappy..."

She wondered what he had meant about things needing to change if she was with child. Was he going to keep her isolated? It was a horrible thought. Kay instead responded to one of his earlier points. "It is frustrating, I know, to be srrounded by others, yet ignored by them at the same time. I go through the same. As soon as non-aggression and trade agreements are made we are completely ignored. I suppose that it's an advantage, given that we haven't been plunged into war. But it does make one feel small and insignificant. I know that feeling all too well..." She had felt it many times before. Not with Veiere, but with many other circumstances in her life, most especially during her abduction.

"I suppose that this is all guesswork. Once I find out if I really am carrying, we'll figure out what to do."

 

[WolfMortum]

Slowly, Veiere leaned back into his seat as [member="Lady Kay"] reminded him how little he enjoyed politics. She was right of course, though at the same time, if he looked back on things during his time where Commenor was his sole focus...-He had to admit that results seemed to come to them easier than it did in trying to deal with the Jedi outside of his own organization; or rather just all of them in general. "I've been this way for so long, it's hard not to know any different" Veiere lifted his glass, speaking before taking a sip of the golden liquid, soon placing it back to the table in-front of him and turning to look about the crowded room their fellow occupants and patrons all now enjoying a free evening delight thanks to the pair of them and mostly Kay's generosity and consideration for those outside of themselves.

It was extremely easy to see why the Silver Jedi Order had become what it was today, that power to control the path of worlds under it's care was a far easier course of persuasion than that of an Order that belonged to no one place, one that was entirely outside of the political circle and afar from the eyes of the known universe. "When we were running things with Commenor, the two of us were well recognized and our dealings with other governments were stable, easy to come by. That authority was recognized and respected" he spoke plainly, no need to restrain his thoughts in the company of his wife for she knew him better than anyone and knew that these were mostly just Veiere venting his frustrations and imagining a path with a little clearer direction in where he was meant to go.

"It's difficult to believe in what you're doing while not truly understanding the faith that guides you..." he further commented, turning to glance back to her thoughtfully wondering if she felt the same way. At-least with politics all she had to contend with was the minds and arrogance of other people unlike Veiere of whom believed their was the Force, a greater presence with a design for them all and yet having no real clue what that design looked like, his search for what was to be his fate so to speak or the path that he was meant for, still seemed very much amiss. "Truth be told, I can't remember the last time I felt like I was on the right path...-Doing something good for the Galaxy. Training others is fine when they're harboring the attention span to want to learn but after a while...-They grow distracted and you soon to begin to wonder how possible these goals you're trying to accomplish really are. Take the Galactic Alliance for example...-I honestly have no idea what their views are towards the Jedi that follow behind me. The Silvers? Arisa made it pretty clear...-We are allies whom oppose each other in indifference...-Jedi who cannot come together for the need to justify their own way...-How am I supposed to challenge this attitude?".

"I genuinely feel like I had better luck running things here with you, for all that politics bothers me...I know what the good and just end-picture looks like but how do you lead people there who refuse to look beyond themselves, without forcing them to do so...".

 

[Kay-Larr]

Kay nodded, having a sip of her tea while [member="Veiere Arenais"] had a sip of his brandy. The two of them worked very well together, it was true, and it was through that partnership that their goals were accomplished. Veiere was stern when he had to be, yet always kind and approachable for those under their care. They had such high respect for him, whereas with Kay, they tended to feel the need to question her at times. Afterall, she was the one that tended to attract trouble, not him. Or perhaps it was the fact that they knew that he was a Force User, so they recognized the extra power that he wielded. Whatever it was, she didn't mind. There was no internal power struggle between them.

She reached out and placed her hand on one of his, lightly caressing the top of it with her thumb while he spoke of his uncertainty. While Veiere did his best to avoid politics, what she heard coming from him in regards to the other Jedi Orders was very political in nature. He seemed to be trapped in it's grip like she was. Trying to stray from that path was never a permanent thing.

Veiere's last question made her think of the Senate, and most especially of Yutan. It had been a huge struggle for her and at times she felt as though it was all coming apart. Some of the Senators were only out for themselves and working their way into gaining more power over the Alliance for themselves. She expected that to happen in time, but not so soon. She didn't start it in order to be usurped so quickly.

"Veiere, you are a born leader, regardless of whether you want the mantle or not. I was drawn to you in the same way as others were. Your wisdom and guidance is welcomed and wanted. People enjoy serving under you, myself included. But I think that in this day and age, the younger generation feel as though they know best and want instant satisfaction instead of taking the time to work for a goal." She met his eyes with her own, wanting to do everything in her power to make him feel better about himself and to give him a purpose. "The Force works in such a way that we'd never be able to fully understand it. Perhaps this is all a part of it's plan for you. As the Elders had said, our children will need both of us. So this could be how it is ensured that you are here for them as much as I am. It may seem unfair, but perhaps that's just how it's supposed to be.

There are plenty of times where I just want to yell at the Senators and give their heads a shake. But we lead better by listening and addressing their concerns. That's how things move forward. I've had the Emperor of the Galactic Empire, and a Military leader in the First Order tell me otherwise, but they are Imperials and we are not. If our way of governing was so terrible, then we wouldn't be half as successful as we are now. I'm proud of our work and I'm proud of you."

 

[WolfMortum]

Veiere couldn't help but laugh softly as [member="Lady Kay"] claimed to have been drawn to him; "You rounded a corner in the street of Alzoc's capital and we walked straight into one another, I'd hardly call that divine calling..." He smirked as he spoke, well amused by her choice of words and appreciating the gesture and compliment all the same. Veiere had never craved the position of leadership, his actions were often questioned within and that doubt and insecurity made things difficult more often than not. He was confident in what he believed was good and just in the Galaxy and yet how to get people there, how to direct and guide them to a better place of living wasn't nearly so black and white; rarely did things go to plan in his experience.

"I want to find a middle ground...-I need to be on Commenor here with you now, yet I cannot turn my back on the Jedi Order where it needs me so...." he spoke plainly, truthfully and voicing his intent to return and fulfill his duties there as King. "The Order that I've fought for, for so long I wished to bring back the ideals of the old way. The Galaxy has turned so far, I'm not sure that it's possible...-Or even plausible to ignore the good that I could be doing both as a Jedi and as a King, one in the same". There were however complications to be considered, consequences of closing in the distance between his work here and his duties to and for the Jedi Order and those outside of his organization. "I don't think I can afford to hold the same standards as my predecessors, not here and not yet in any case. The Galaxy is shrouded in darkness, chaos is everywhere and if the government is to succeed, perhaps it should be closely monitored by a Jedi...-As dangerous as this sounds".

"I'm going to be seeking to strengthen the ties between my Organization and the other Jedi Organizations out there within the Galactic Alliance and the far North. The Silver Jedi Order has people there that may still recognize me from the days of the Galactic Republic and I hope to encourage them to further work together...-There will however be opposition and it will be a long and hard battle to bring together, if succeed at all...-But this was always my dream, what I felt was my calling".