Private The Way of Water

[Rekha Kaarde]

[member="Akabane"]

"Well a smooth devil for certain, and that's a compliment." She looked up to the casino, "well I have an outfit for the visit. Let's go see how the folks are doing tonight."

It was a place where everything and anything could happen. On her first visit there Loupe made a play and she decided she didn't want to play. She walked out wearing a table cloth...oh..no what's her name gave her clothes..her own......hmmm wonder if she would be around tonight.

She smiled though, "I'll be a most fortunate woman with you on my dear. We'll make their heads turn."

She had a dress, a new one...it was perfect for tonight and it would match what he was wearing.

 

[Akabane Jarvik]

A smooth devil, was it? He grinned, enjoying her praise or whatever one would consider that. Akabane raised a brow, smiling as he heard her mention an outfit for attending the casino activities. He couldn't recall a time where he seen the lady in something fancy. That wasn't a bad thing of course, but he had more interest now than ever. She was a beautiful maiden after all. Wearing anything even slightly revealing just didn't line up with her personality so he was so excited to see the results.

And there was no disappointment to be found. Akabane was quite possibly the most stunned out of everybody or he'd be high up on the list at least. A huge smile formed on his face while his eyes sparkled like glitter. "Simply amazing, my dear. Your beauty might blind me if you keep on with that."

[member="Rekha Kaarde"]

 

[Rekha Kaarde]

"Blinding huh...well that is a compliment. I'll have to shine more often." Rekha had disappeared for a few moments and come out wearing her latest find in women's clothing.

She smiled as she smoothed the skirts and adjusted the matching shawl, if anything they would fit in tonight among the glammer and glitz of the galaxy. They would be unrecognized unlike when she goes up in her 'work' clothes she turned heads those nights security watched carefully and she walked on egg shells.

"So....shall we call for a transport to take us from the dock to the casino?" It would be easier than walking.

[member="Akabane"]

 

[Akabane Jarvik]

Akabane was being overly flirty and even he knew it. However he continued as it was in his nature to make a female feel good about herself. Of course he was only being so forward due to his interest in Miss Rekha. It had been awhile since he felt this many feelings for a lady, and it was strange but he wasn't gonna stop himself. She seemed truly special and learning more about her only felt right. Akabane did notice his forwardness though so he treaded carefully. That wasn't for any particular reason but he didn't want to hurt her in any way. He'd already admitted to being a sith so anything after could be amplified. At the end of the day though, she presented her beauty and he needed to let her know it was wonderful.

The flirting went on... "You certainly look amazing... but you don't need a dress to shine, love." He spoke honestly. She asked about getting to the casino, offering they take transport. Akabane agreed it'd be easier but he just had to act silly. "Only if I can hold your hand. I wouldn't want to lose sight of my precious little flower." He really was taking this far. Hopefully, he didn't make her feel uncomfortable. Akabane was just that into her. He waited for her response.

[member="Rekha Kaarde"]

 

[Rekha Kaarde]

[member="Akabane"]​

​

She didn't mind being compared to a flower though it was a bit on the mushy side of things for Rekha maybe though she needed some mushy stuff to take off that hard edge. "You certainly know how to make me feel special." She smiled easily at each bit that he uttered she nodded and extended her hand. "I wouldn't want to lose you either up there."

The casino was a unique environment especially this one it reeked of money, corruption, and wandering eyes. She laughed again, "Come along darlin let's find a transport and go show off for the visitors" Walking down the pier to the taxi waiting area there was always a ride. She spied a few of the familiar drivers, "that one over there. Him I trust we'll get there in one piece"

And they wouldn't be robbed along the way. "Titus, can you take us up to the casino please"

Titus turned his gungan eyes found Rekha and Akabane, "ohhh yessa yessa ms Rekha right this way"

 

[Akabane Jarvik]

Akabane was typically charming at all times, or so he tried to be that way. Making others feel good about themself just filled him with happiness. There were times when reactions got a little out of hand however. The reaction his friend gave him was fun and engaging. This female, Rekha, was so lovely too. She told the young Akabane that he knew how to make her feel special. He smiled, happy to have left such an impression. It was hard to let go of that expression due to her own. Smiling felt effortless... it was involuntary. Perhaps permanent if they remained in each other's company. The last part made him lose the smile for a moment out of light shock. Akabane shook his head when he realized his blank stare and brought back the smile.

He approached her hand in a slow, gentle manner. Showing that he cared for its safety. As silly as that may have sounded if he voiced those actions, Akabane wanted to eliminate any thoughts of ill intent from her mind. Another reason he acted so strange is out of respect. Women were the highest being on his level of respect. They were meant to be protected in his eyes. Even he feared hurting a female. With some time he eventually held it in a position that would seem comfortable for both of them. He grinned, bringing out the devil. "Thank you. I'll never forget your generous embrace." At least the devil gave him flair.

She called him "darlin" as they took off to go find transportation to the casino. A laugh preceding it. He went along with it chuckling and holding tight. The two of them got into the trusted driver's vehicle and took off. His new acquaintance was a Gungan? Quite interesting. He recalled Rekha calling the creature Titus earlier... he returned his gaze to his shiny partner. Akabane wanted to conversate during the ride so he spoke first. Starting out with a playful question. "So are other guys as successful as me at getting you away from the water?" He smirked, acting silly even while asking a real question.

[member="Rekha Kaarde"]

 

[Rekha Kaarde]

She looked over at the tempting devil, fine figure of a man he was and she was letting him do all the things she generally balked at. She must be getting old that's all she thought for a moment, the briefest of moments.

"They are not as successful, most times they end up in the water, all wet, and swimming for shore to go and ponder another for their aspirations." Rekha looked down for a moment, "I haven't figured out this interest you have in me. My friends will tell me I'm insane, or under the influence. Some might recommend a long stay in a facility to well for lack of a better phrase, clear my mind"

She looked again at him his eyes, something in his eyes. "Don't compare yourself to other Akabane, no two people are ever alike, and I don't react the same to people. I have a hard time with them. So this me going off with you, its new. I don't know if its good or bad right now. But we are here, and its now, and since life is only once, we're gonna live, not just exist."

That was about as philosophical as she would get and why she was saying it now she wasn't sure.

[member="Akabane"]​

 

[Akabane Jarvik]

This lady was most definitely a tough one. His laughter followed her words as she described the end game of his predecessors. That sounded so like her too. The all-black devil hadn't known her long but he knew she possessed more strength than he could obtain. Maybe not physically, although he was sure she could fight well, but mentally she would perform incredibly. He didn't know her fully yet but he believed in that much.

Miss Rekha appeared to be getting serious after his question. She shared her view on their current situation. It was made very clear to him that this wasn't a typical adventure she went on. With men in particular, he could only assume. Akabane felt bad in a way. Yes, he liked being flashy and going out. But dragging other's out with him was different. He ended up getting in trouble at times too, so he was potentially jeopardizing her life. Causing her friends to think she was sick didn't rest well with him either. He was starting to think this was all a bad idea. His hold of her hand became slightly loose as he looked out of the windows. Those thoughts about her safety consumed his mind.

But then... she spoke again. He turned to lock eyes with the wonderful lady once more. Those green eyes fixated on his own brought on a melting sensation. At the same time, he felt frozen solid, unable to move. Only equipped to listen. She broke his defenses and Akabane was unsure what to do. The way she spoke was simply amazing, the things she said were nothing but kind and loving, and it broke him more and more. This was quite the situation for the young man.

Akabane slowly regained his motor functions. After a moment of thinking he grinned. He held her hand tighter, but not uncomfortably. "Good or bad... I can see the need to question that." He laughed for a brief second and then continued. "Then we will live. I'm not sure if I'll be able to let go of you though. You're far too valuable to lose after all." Akabane felt as if he was really pushing his affection to the limit. Her inspiring words made him feel bolder so he kinda just let it out.

[member="Rekha Kaarde"]

 

[Rekha Kaarde]

[member="Akabane"]​

​

He seemed deep in thought as if something had sprung up and tugged at his mind taking him away. Was he considering things just as she had? Anything they did wouldn't be easy but she couldn't deny certain things and if she pondered them all too long she'd have to jump in the lake too.

She looked at the casino as they drew nearer to the entrance. "I"ll warn you ahead of time dear, the last time I was here I wore a table cloth and had a run in with a woman who called herself White I'm certain that wasn't her name. So...if we get stares, stare back or smile. It will make them wonder what we are up to"

She had an escort that night too. "I imagine from our time on Bespin that you don't mind a little gambling. Am I right?" She felt she was but let's find out she didn't want to assume.

 

[Akabane Jarvik]

She was offering him some type of warning... and he liked her tone. Perhaps she liked trouble afterall? No, she was just playful and that was it. That's what he thought. Only time could tell. He had a feeling the night was going to be quite an adventure with the lady. Previous thoughts lingered bout her safety still. He tried to act reserved so he didn't give in too much to danger. It was bound to happen, something always went wrong when he was around. Akabane finally agreed to what she said at the end with a smile to not seem off.

Akabane too, analyzed the bright casino. The place was familiar but he couldn't pinpoint where he'd seen the place from. It was strange and intriguing at the same time. Miss Rekha's words were also quite interesting as they were arriving. An amazing deduction about his gambling preference made him grin. She was using their first encounter on Bespin as reference. He remembered it well, shaking his head. "I always like a good risk. Potential rewards can make it well worth it." Akabane said this as a tease but he meant it truly too.

[member="Rekha Kaarde"]

 

[Rekha Kaarde]

[member="Akabane"]

"Potential rewards are sometimes all that I get up for in the morning" She said it as she gazed about looking for any familiar faces and ensuring that if there was anyone in the room to be wary of they had awareness.

She smiled bright, set her shoulders as if there was a fight ahead, slipping her hand up on his arm, "Let's play...how do you feel about Jubilee Wheel?" A little show of ownership her hand on his arm letting all the would be interlopers to keep their distance.

Some of the other games were enticing but let's start off with something ont as dangerous as sabacc, high stakes in that room, high rollers, and lots of credits. A game of cut throat, winner usually lost their life or if they managed to get off the planet they were never seen again adding to the mystery of the winners.

 

[Akabane Jarvik]

She told Akabane that sometimes she only woke up for potential awards. That was quite the lifestyle, he had to admit. He wondered if a lady such as herself really lived a risky life. The first time he'd caught a look at her she was seemingly in a mess. That was the time he used to joke about being there to capture her. Remembering his stupid little stunt almost made him glow red from embarrassment. She was trying to be hospitable with allowing travel on her boat too. Looking back at that little scuffle, which was hardly even one, he regretted it. However not fessing up about his fancy red blade could've landed him in a different path. For now though, he enjoyed her company. Fun was on the way as well, he needed to forget about that for the time being.

The fine lady took hold of his arm, a smile glowing on her face. This feeling was nice, especially with all the strangers in the room. Having her close gave him more of a chance to defend her if an attack came. And he was sure one would show itself. Akabane listened to her request and nodded. "Its one of the better ones. We should play. Till we empty our accounts!" He grinned with laughing following soon after. For a moment though, he leaned in behind her ear and spoke softly. "Let's try not to upset any patrons, love. Win all you want but for every hair I lose from a blaster bolt, you owe me a drink." Akabane returned to his normal walking stance as if nothing happened.

Something about Rekha just gave off the vibe that she didn't come here to win money. He could've been wrong. Nevertheless, he would tag along and hold her close. Her fight was his own, now and until she got back to that ship. The current battle had yet to start.

"Okay Miss Rekha, show me your skills." He spoke as they approached a game table with their desired game.

[member="Rekha Kaarde"]

 

[Rekha Kaarde]

"So long as we have enough credits to eat for a week I'm good with emptying the account." She could handle it plus receipts from two bars still filled her account and kept Gem operating.

He leaned over whispering to her she leaned closer the softness of the whisper tickled her ears what he said warmed her even more. She turned her head ever so slightly till her green eyes met his gaze. "So you don't mind being bald and drunk?" She teased him a big grin on her face as she winked at him. She reached up and ran her fingers through his hair for a moment, "What about if its just singed?"

She wouldn't let it get that far...maybe.

They walked up to the table. Rekha liked numbers they were her friend. Her mind worked them as effortlessly as mynocks flew. "I like things that border on luck, so..." she placed her chit on the table, "8, and 33. What about you dear, you have a number in mind, 6 maybe?" She tilted her head again, teasing him. She kept her focus on his face.

Elsewhere in the casino cameras were already turning to focus on Rekha and Akabane. A new security droid appeared in a corner. Rekha wouldn't notice this...not yet.

[member="Akabane"]

 

[Akabane Jarvik]

Akabane felt himself having quite the time with this lady. He was unsure if anyone had ever matched her in the way she so easily enticed him. Hearing her reply to his joke, he raised a brow with a smirk on his face. "We"? Akabane doubted she meant anything by that but he could pretend there was an implication. He simply nodded to her response, eager to spill thousands of credits by the end of this night. Hopefully they could avoid spilling blood. People were known to be dirty in places such as the casino. He didn't expect any less from them. And again, his star wouldn't be harmed on his watch.

To his surprise, she got even closer to him as he spoke his words into her ear. Akabane was starting to question the reality of the current situation. He confessed his alignment earlier and her view on that side seemed to be negative. As most would think. However they were interlinked and walked with class together. Teasing each other as if they had been acquaintances for years. Possibly more... how were things going so smoothly? Perhaps she had forgotten? He dropped those thoughts temporarily when she spoke.

Those wonderful green eyes found their way to his own again. It was refreshing everytime, never failing to fill him with ecstasy. She asked Akabane if he didn't mind being bald and drunk, in reply to his talk about losing hairs. A grin and a wink followed that question. Then Miss Rekha ran her hand through his hair. He made no movement until she asked a second question. Akabane grinned himself, crimson eyes bringing all of their depth out as they stared into her own eyes. "I'll have to borrow your shower, I suppose. Burnt hair is no fun for the nose." He was teasing her back in a way, while being slightly serious.

As Rekha let her focus fall on the game Akabane chuckled and looked around to view security detail. Cameras were of course there along with security personnel scattered all around. He felt those watchful eyes from behind screens almost immediately. Locating them would prove to be a problem but they weren't causing any trouble yet... he was sure trouble would come though. Akabane shook his head and returned back to the game. Miss Rekha offered up a number for him to choose. "I trust your thinking over my own, lovely. Let's go with 6."

[member="Rekha Kaarde"]

 

[Rekha Kaarde]

Oh it had all happened so easily really she just allowed herself to move and speak when he mentioned her shower she laughed, "I have lots of shampoo" She wanted to relax to show her spirit to let this night have its life as it breathed some life into her.

She noticed the droid in the corner nothing that she had not really expected considering her last visit. She smiled at Akabane again.

"6 it is then." Rekha placed the bet nothing too flashy, the service droids were bringing trays of drinks to keep the gamblers at the tables and forgetting how much was on the line. The wheel began to spin Rekha pretended to watch it as her gaze moved to the room. A woman in a long white coat of some poor animal stood at another table her body language broadcasting that she was winning.

Rekha looked to Akabane again, "They've sent a droid to watch, he's in the corner, did you see him?" Rekha smiled brightly turned toward the droid and waved hello. She knew full well security watched through the droids feeds. "They must know you are trouble" She was teasing him still.

[member="Akabane"]

 

[Akabane Jarvik]

Miss Rekha continued to show off her oh-so wonderful personality... Akabane couldn't get enough. She mentioned her large amount of shampoo. He chuckled, while unsure if she was shooting him an invitation or not. The crimson-eyed man wouldn't turn down a chance to condition his hair.

She placed her bet on 6 as they agreed upon it. Akabane was familiar with how these games went. It wasn't always luck that enabled a player to win. Sometimes, people found a way to secure their victory with other methods. He figured that's why so many droids were scattered around. While they awaited the verdict of this round Rekha appeared to wave at the droid she informed him about. Akabane nodded to answer his partner's question.

Akabane found himself slightly embarrassed when she waved at the droid. If they didn't already get the attention of the security, they certainly would have it now. She teased him, insisting that they must know he's a troublemaker. Akabane glanced over at the droid and then back to his company. A reoccurring smile forming. "Well an angel and a devil typically don't show this much affection, if any at all." His eyes lit up as if he'd created a massive conspiracy. He locked eyes with Rekha and softly held his hand to her cheek. "Maybe they're jealous of my friend."

Rekha Kaarde

 

[Rekha Kaarde]

Rekha made sure her hands were where everyone could see them. If Akabane could read thoughts or identify her intent he would know she was first playing fairly and second avoiding all the appearances of being up to something. She smiled. It was too late then though Ms. White had already identified her and knew Rekha Kaarde was often trouble in the brew.

Rekha looked to the droid then the camera's it's often hard to have a good time when you know you're being watched but she she liked it. If they thought her such a threat that they needed to watch her she knew she was doing something right. She gave another big smile.

By now Ms. White had also identifed Akabane, if there was anything to find.

"Devils and Angels often make the best companion, its all about balance isn't it....equal parts of good and evil." She winked at him. Chills ran down her spine as he touched her cheek, "They are jealous" she whispered, she looked to their bet, the wheel continued to turn, "But not to worry I'll protect you from them. They are more bark than bite"

She had a few of the bites, that nasty bruise on her had finally gone away. Course where was old Rajak still nursing his boo boo. Out of instinct Rekha put her hand on his chest but said nothing

Akabane Jarvik

 

[Akabane Jarvik]

Akabane didn't pick up on her actions or why she acted the way she did anyway. No... he was caught up in her smile that appeared time and time again. The gambling was fun to an extent but all the pleasure he felt was coming from her warm smile. He had no intention of actually going out with the beauty when this whole thing started but it appeared they both drug each other into a fun time. And it was so much fun. How long would it last though?

A cautious glance later, Akabane found himself analyzing the room again just for an update as Rekha had been doing. He was aware of that much at least. In their situation it was probably wise to stay aware at all times even if they were trying to have fun. The game they were participating in added to the already tense environment. It almost felt like a constant adrenaline rush in a way. Yes, this was fun. Akabane enjoyed times like these especially. If he didn't have a partner on this night he might've ended up in a very different situation. So he was very thankful for her.

While she spoke, he did his best not to get lost up in her eyes. It was so easy to sink into them with no escape. Although escaping wouldn't be much help since it was a trap he could stay in eternally with no complaints. Her words hit all the right points and it was addictive being a listener. Akabane, once again felt like he was lucky and perhaps he was only dreaming. That would've been a silly assumption though. Everything was going so perfect and the lady before him was so amazing, but that didn't immediately prove the events to be false. It all had that authentic feeling to it. He thought it to still be strange all in all.

Rekha brought up a valid point to explain why two people of different nature could be getting along so well, or maybe too well. She confirmed the others viewing them to be indeed jealous, but in a whisper. Akabane formed a small smirk. The lady then declared him to be under her protection and he ended up smiling involuntarily. Her declaration made him happy. While he had faith in his own abilities, hearing someone say they'll protect you gave rise to emotion. For him, his response was feeling happy. She didn't let up on him either, placing a hand on his chest after her bold statement. She was silent. Akabane moved his hand placement to the back of her head and engaged his other one, wrapping it around her lower back to pull her close unless he was stopped. It was as if he wanted to dance. Except he moved his head past hers to reach her ears in a whisper. Practically holding her in a type of hug.

"Oh, they don't want to bark at me." There was something sinister to his tone and the whole dialogue. He played it off with a chuckle and spoke softly, but not in a whisper. Akabane spoke serious this time with concern and wanted her to for sure hear him. "I'm not going to abandon you.. if you're worried." He felt like she was feeling on edge, but he could've easily been wrong. Reassuring her that he would be there wasn't hurting anything though. He started to pull away, feeling like he needed to give her space back.

Rekha Kaarde

 

[Rekha Kaarde]

He had picked up on looking around which for some reason made her smile. Someone who knew to look for the out of place. Nice.

He kept returning his gaze to look into her eyes, she couldn't help but gaze back. It had been quite a dry spell where someone had looked at her like he was doing now. She felt a flutter inside. Oh my. She kept that same smile that one that she hoped told him, it's all good we're doing great right now.

Oh my his hand was so warm laying there on her own. Oh... she thought this is heading into those dangerous places. She tilted her head as his other hand slowly moved to hold the small of her back, she couldn't move and didn't want to.

The soft whisper of his words gentle upon her ear initiated a slow rise of blush to her cheeks. They don't want to bark at me she couldn't help but break into a broad smile all as heads turned to them and then away. She wished for a moment she could hear their thoughts.

I'm not going to abandon you.

OH god had she projected that to him. Did he feel this emotion in her...had she revealed in some way her fears of being abandoned after having been left before?

The words of acknowledgement she wanted to say stuck in her throat. Maybe she wasn't there yet. But she was certain of one thing. She leaned forward to rest her cheek against his, his skin so cool to the touch a welcome contrast to the heat in her.

She finally found her voice softening it to where he could only hear and others would need to strain to hear "Akabane you're in so much trouble now." She pressed her lips to his cheek breaking away to tell you, "you've no idea"

Akabane Jarvik

 

[Akabane Jarvik]

Going out to the casino was wonderful choice. He had a feeling that things would be getting even more spicy as time ticked. And yet, time appeared to slow down. Maybe not for everyone else but Akabane certainly felt the world stop. Rekha was pulling off moves equally as bold as him. He knew she had a good amount of fight in her but not of this kind. The world really did stop in his eyes. She decided to return the energy he gave. She had been playful before with the man and it was a great thing to feel raw emotion and express it. Her actions seemed to put him in shock however. Akabane didn't get flustered or anything, something had just made his mind slow and think about the situation.

The more he sat there frozen in time with Miss Rekha in close proximity he wondered what she was thinking. Akabane had thrown her for a loop today... showing up without letting her know, confessing to wielding a sith's weapon, and practically pledging his loyalty to her. That could be interpreted differently but he clearly had made her go through a lot on the emotional side. That was wrong of him. Instead of turning away and avoiding him though, she stood there out and about while allowing him to be so close. Akabane was extremely happy to be there at the time and also very grateful for her entirety. She was a literal angel from his perspective. This young man wasn't deserving of receiving anything from her but she treated him so well nonetheless. She had to be protected at all costs.

Miss Rekha moved her cheek away from his and replaced it with her lips after saying he was in trouble. She then spoke again... and every part of him wanted to give her a warm hug. It was in his nature to show some restraint so he didn't end up attempting it. Instead, Akabane released her entirely and reached for one of her hands, wishing to hold it like before. If she accepted his request, he'd turn his body back to face the spinning wheel while her hand was united with his own. He then said some things to her but softly. "I'm not sure about the details involving your struggles in the past. I don't know many things about you actually. I'm sure you have people you miss and others who've betrayed your trust. I'm sure you also have things you don't want to tell me." He smiled but never changed his eyes' lock on the wheel. "And ya know what? That's fine with me. I've seen all I need to see anyways. You're worth the trouble, darling." Akabane grinned. He meant it. All of it.

Rekha Kaarde