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Reina Daival's Birthday Celebration Corellia – Southern Shoreline, Early Afternoon
The sun hung warm and golden over the water, casting long rays across the sand and making the waves sparkle like scattered crystal. The breeze was just strong enough to carry laughter and the scent of barbecue across the beach, where soft music played from a hidden speaker system half-buried in a woven basket. Umbrellas dotted the area, and someone had already started dragging coolers into shaded circles.
Eve had done her best to make it feel like summer magic. It was needed, for everyone, after such an, arduous few months. Today was going to be a celebration for Reina, and allowed everyone the chance to finally relax after the difficulties of Ukatis and Kelada. There had been many challenges lately. Everyone deserved a real break. And what better excuse than a birthday beach party for one of Eve's best friends.
A few volleyball nets had been set up, already attracting pairs looking to challenge each other beneath the bright sky. Closer to the water, a small tidepool ribboned around shells and stones—perfect for wandering feet and curious minds. And off to the side, a rustic grill station sizzled with kebabs, meats and meat-free alternatives, while nearby tables overflowed with drinks, fruit, sweetbreads, and frosted desserts packed carefully into insulated crates.
People were arriving in waves—some drawn by curiosity, others by affection. Everyone was welcome. Especially those who needed the reminder that life could still be good.
Objective 1:
Team up and play volleyball against others—friendly competition, spontaneous teams, light-hearted chaos.
Objective 2:
Explore the shoreline, wander the tidepools, go for a swim, or sneak off for a quiet walk under the gold-lit sky.
Objective 3:
Mingle and relax—grab food, sip something cold, chat with someone new, or take a seat near the fire pit for good stories and even better company.
Objective 4: BYOO!
[Open to GA. Let's keep this nice and chill and drama/conflict-free!]
Corellia's sun blazed high in a cloudless sky, turning the gentle waves along the crescent shoreline to molten silver. The breeze that rolled in from the sea was warm and salty, catching at the edges of bright parasols and tugging at the banners Eve had just finished stringing between two palm-like trees. They fluttered with cheerful defiance—sun-bleached ribbons in shades of coral, white, and pale violet.
It wasn't a grand affair. No speeches. No banquet halls. But it was honest, and it was hers.
Eve knelt near the sand, fingers adjusting the corner of a low, wide picnic blanket lined with soft cushions and crates turned into makeshift tables. A cooler hummed nearby, stocked with fruit drinks and fizzy teas, and she'd laid out platters of sweetbreads, spiced nuts, and slices of cold melon. Her datapad, balanced on one of the crates, played a loop of light, summery music—soft percussion, lilting strings, and the occasional melodic hum that blended into the rhythm of the sea.
She exhaled, standing slowly to scan the beach again.
The invitation list had grown a little out of hand. At first it had just been close friends, but then she remembered someone Reina had smiled at once in passing. Someone who had mentioned her name. And she'd thought—maybe that person would bring a bit of warmth too. She wasn't even sure Reina would know half the names that ended up on the list. But that was okay.
What mattered was that people came. What mattered was why they were coming. A faint smile pulled at her lips.
She'd never really had a proper birthday celebration herself. It hadn't mattered, not on Eshan, not in the years after. But Reina deserved one. And when Eve realised, quite by chance, that it was coming up soon —just a date caught on a shared mission log, a note overlooked — something in her had lit up with purpose.
She'd planned it carefully. She'd done her best. And Tigris had helped—quietly, subtly, the way she always did when Eve was trying something that mattered. And this mattered. Because Reina mattered.
Eve turned toward the water one last time, adjusting a final sunshade so it wasn't quite in the wind's path. Her heart fluttered softly as she glanced toward the approach from the beach path, half-hoping the first figure she saw would be her flame-haired friend.
Near one of the low tables, resting in a nest of linen and shells, sat a single, small box. Carefully wrapped in pale white paper, tied with a silver ribbon. Inside was something she'd poured a quiet piece of herself into: a pendant, holding a drop of ocean water sealed in crystal and silver, infused with Light through hours of soft meditation. A gift, to say what she couldn't always put into words.
She'd give it to Reina when the moment felt right—no fanfare. Just a quiet offering from one soul to another.
Guests hadn't all arrived yet, but the grill was already warming, and Tigris stood by it with steady focus—laying out skewers, checking the heat, her posture composed as ever. Eve approached silently. She paused just beside her, then leaned in and pressed a soft kiss to Tigris' cheek—lingering, affectionate.
"Thank you for helping me with this," she said quietly, her voice nearly lost to the wind.
And with that, she continued to roam, ensuring everything was perfect, waiting for her friend's party to truly begin.
Jackson Lesan didn't land so much as arrive—quietly, on foot, from the far trail that wound through the dunes. He wasn't late, just hesitant. His boots crunched lightly in the sand as he crested the last rise, a duffel slung over one shoulder, his jacket tied around his waist. For a moment, he stood there in silhouette, the breeze teasing strands of his hair as he took in the scene below.
Laughter. Color. Life.
It wasn't the kind of arrival that demanded attention, but it was one that carried weight, like someone walking into a memory that hadn't quite decided if it was real.
He watched the way the tide lapped lazily against the beach, the way the sun turned each ripple into gold. His gaze drifted over the volleyball nets, the scattered towels, the dancing music, and then settled on the grill where the scent of something sweet and charred carried up to meet him.
Eve had gone all out. Of course she had.
He exhaled a breath he hadn't realized he'd been holding, adjusted the duffel on his shoulder, and started down the path.
People passed him on their way up, Some offered waves, others nods of recognition. He returned them with a half-smile that didn't quite reach his eyes, the kind you give when you want to mean it but aren't sure if your heart's caught up yet.
He hadn't come for the food or the sun.
He'd come because someone told him he should. That it would be good for him. That he needed to remember how to just be again.
Maybe they were right.
Jackson made his way toward the edge of the gathering, choosing a spot under an unclaimed umbrella near the tidepool. He dropped his bag, toes already sinking into warm sand, and let the breeze tug at his sleeves. For a moment, he simply stood there, quiet, letting it all wash over him.
Then slowly and deliberately he unzipped his boots, kicked them off, and stepped barefoot toward the water.
One step.
Then another.
Because maybe life could still be good.
And maybe today was the first time he believed it.
Today was just another day for Reina. Yes, it was the day recorded as her birthday. The date that the fishing crew had found her adrift at sea. But it had never been something special for her. Why would it be? It just meant she had been born. But it wasn't like she was a gift to the Universe or the Galaxy in her eyes. Reina had originally been ready to just waste the day away in training, but that's when she had gotten a message from Eve. Asking Reina to come to Corellia. To the Beach. She had no clue why her friend wanted her to come there, but Eve was that singular person in Reina's life that she struggled to say no to. If someone else had asked her to do something she didn't like, Reina would have found some way to grumble, or complain. But with Eve...Reina just nodded.
And so that brings us to now. Reina slowly making her way towards the beach. The sounds of her sandal and mechanical foot patting against the ground beneath her as the woman tugged at her jacket for a moment. She was more exposed than she liked, but if she was going to the beach...She wanted to look at least somewhat presentable. Her old fishing uniform would look out of place, and she couldn't exactly wear her usual clothes to the beach. The sand would get everywhere and she'd be struggling to get it out for months. Even with all these nerves that were new to Reina however...She was excited. Excited to see Eve, and by extension Tigris. Her pace slowly but surely getting faster and faster. It was surreal. For the first time, Reina was actually running to meet people instead of running away. Maybe it was just the sea smell that was making her energy peak as she ran, and ran...until she froze.
The colour slowly drained from Reina's face in shock and surprise. She didn't deal well with surprises. Reina had thought today was just meant to be her, Eve and Tigris hanging out. So why were there so many banners? Why were there huge picnic blankets? Her face was burning. A bright almost cosmic red tinting her face. Her heart was racing for all of the wrong reasons. It didn't take a genius to figure out this was some kind of...surprise party for her. Reina should have expected it. Should have known that Eve would have done something like this. But she hadn't.
And so she made her way over towards Eve, stamping her feet throughout the sand in frustration. Though the closer and closer she got to her friend, the more the frustration was gently bleeding away. The stomps became frustrated steps. The frustrated steps became a rushed pace. And then finally they just became a slow shuffle as Reina finally got to Eve. Reina wanted to yell. To be annoyed about the surprise. But she couldn't bring herself to do any of it. Instead she just looked between Eve and then over towards Tigris...and sighed to herself.
"...Thank you..."
She muttered quietly to herself mostly, staring down at the sand. All of the wind had basically been taken out of Reina's sails. It wasn't a bad thing. She knew she'd probably enjoy it. It was just the surprise that she needed to get used to. The strangers. There was already at least one stranger she could see heading towards the water...but that was fine by her. As long as people enjoyed themselves, it meant today was good.
Of course Tigris would help. The Atrisian padawan was not the most social, having had virtually no people skills until she met Everest. It was something the introverted former assassin continued to work on. Helping throw the birthday party certainly gave her the opportunity.
She had only recently met Reina on Tython, and only because the seafaring woman was Eve's friend. But Tigris felt a measure of affinity for Reina. They both seemed to struggle to fit in, and both were drawn out of their aversion to socializing by Everest Vale. The girl had that effect on everyone.
Tigris had chosen something for Reina's birthday while visiting Atrisia, a Sasori Circlet. Aside from the gifts she had chosen for Eve on that trip, Reina was the only other person Tigris had ever given a gift.
Tigris had volunteered to work the grill. Eve didn't eat meat and could not tolerate cooking it, and it would give her something to keep busy. So the tattooed padawan manned the archaic grill, having stoked the coals herself until they were nice and hot. The ocean breeze kept her cool even near the grill, the zephyr tugging at her raven black, unbound hair, forcing her to brush it out of her face. She wore a black bikini that bared most of her bronzed, tattooed skin. Tigris never had been one for modesty. But her true nature was betrayed by the vibroknife strapped to her calf. She was an assassin turned protector.
Checking the searing meat, Tigris subtly waved her hand and the kabobs lifted a few inches off the grill, turned and lowered again. Their savory aroma was carried by the breeze across the nearby tables and beach blankets. She held a bottle of cold fizz tea in her hand, sipping at it as she enjoyed the sun and kept her eye on things.
Tigris turned her dark gaze from the grill to the beach scene around her. Tigris first check to see Everest, always aware of where her girlfriend was. Then she saw Jackson arrive. She knew of the man, but had not met him. Her gaze lingered, watching as he unzipped his boots and waded into the tide pool water. He was still a bit of a mystery to her.
Out of the corner of her eye, she saw the birthday girl. Tigris caught the woman hesitate, knowing Reina enough to see the unwelcomed surprise on her face. The Atrisian was worried that Reina might not take well to a surprise party, but held her peace. If anyone could pull it off and help Reina enjoy it, it was that Echani bundle of cheer.
Tigris met Reina's gaze with an understanding look, but nodded slightly in a 'it will be alright' gesture. She remained where she was at the grill, letting Everest have a moment to greet their friend. Tigris knew Reina would enjoy the party with Eve's help. The padawan couple wanted the shy redhead to know that she had friends that cared about her and wanted to celebrate with her.
It was all very much not the person Tigris, or used to be. That was changing as Eve encouraged Tigris to make friends. Turning back to the grill, the tattooed girl levitated several large grilling mushroom tops and turned them over.
The warmth of the Corellian sun had settled over Valery's skin like a blanket, golden and gentle, without the harsh bite of most battlefield climates she'd grown used to. Today wasn't a battlefield. There were no orders, no mission briefings, no ancient tombs humming warnings in the back of her skull. Just the hush of waves, the scent of grilled food drifting on a salt-kissed breeze, and the soft grit of sand beneath the towel she lay stretched out on.
She wore a sleek black bikini that hugged her frame — simple, functional, and yet undeniably flattering. The sun glinted along her toned back and legs, the faint sheen of sunscreen catching where her muscles moved beneath skin. Her long dark hair was tied up in a high ponytail, slightly tousled from the breeze, and her fiery eyes were half-lidded, shaded behind lashes as she watched the waves roll in and out.
Alone, for now, she said nothing. Did nothing.
Valery's hand rested loosely on the towel as she leaned on it, her bare feet crossed at the ankle, her breathing slow and even. She wasn't meditating — not exactly. But there was something in the quiet repetition of the tide that invited stillness, and for once, she let it in.
No one needed her to fight. No one needed her to lead. No lives balanced on the edge of her decisions.
It was… nice.
She took a deep breath through her nose, letting the scents and sounds of the beach wash over her again. Somewhere nearby, laughter erupted from a volleyball court. Music drifted. But she didn't move to join just yet. This moment was for herself — a quiet reminder that peace didn't have to be earned in blood.
She reached absentmindedly for the water bottle beside her, took a sip, then leaned back down again.
Hang on… wait… Easy for him to say, Buster was too excited for the prospect of running around in this squishy gravely ground is, it’s amazing! It’s too exciting to not run and play in! Especially with Cooper here too!
Cooper was Buster’s new little buddy and pup to Caltin and Chrysa. They were here too, she was enjoying a rare day off, and so was he. Chrysa was enjoying the sun, not far from Valery Noble
, she had a cooler of water and other drinks with her, which were available to everyone. Caltin was there too, distracting the younger Gallinorese Mountain Aak Dog with treats as he did not notice Buster yet.
I’m running out of treats here! That was not a complaint, he was actually laughing.
Connel just nodded and looked down at his best friend. You wanna play? Buster started barking and bouncing. How’bout’it? More excitement, and Cooper noticed at this point. GO!
Once off of his leash, Buster TOOK OFF! Running around, in full “zoomie” mode, which drew joy and excitement from Cooper. Now they were just having too much funBuster and Cooper chased each other around, their paws kicking up dust as they ran. Their barks echoed through the yard, a joyful symphony of wagging tails and playful growls. The adults watched with smiles, enjoying the simple pleasure of seeing their furry friends so happy.
Connel circled their perimeter, not to let them get too far, but to notice what was where. Stopping a second to watch the volleyball game, the firepit, then looking over what to eat, he was going to let himself relax…
Squad Leader:Captain Nos Voros (Zeltron male) (Under protest. Still armed.)
Fire Team Alpha — “Alpha Splash Unit”
Lieutenant Karis Vonn (Human female, Corellian) – Wears mirrored aviators unironically. Claimed volleyball court command 3 minutes after landing. Has a strategic towel deployment zone mapped out.
Sergeant Lorne Vesik (Mirialan male) – Has a waterproof medkit. Is already reapplying sunscreen for the 4th time. Brought electrolyte packs. No one else remembered to hydrate.
Corporal Bex Jarn (Besalisk male) – Currently dual-wielding grilled nerfburgers. Plays volleyball like he’s breaching a bunker. Shirt’s been off since the shuttle landed.
Private Tash Renn (Human male, Chandrilan) – Folded his beach towel with military precision. Requested a rulebook for beach volleyball. Assigned to clipboard duty for morale tracking.
---
Fire Team Bravo — “Bravo Wavebreaker Team”
Sergeant Jil Torvan (Togruta female) – Organized beach volleyball brackets before breakfast. Refuses to wear flip-flops. Is the loudest cheerer and tactical trash-talker.
Corporal Rann Kyber (Nautolan male) – Built a sand sniper nest “for the bit.” Brings peacekeeper energy. Hasn’t spoken in 20 minutes but is winning at every lawn game.
Private Drax Molgar (Zabrak male) – Dug a sand pit large enough to hide a speeder. Keeps trying to spike the volleyball like it’s a thermal detonator. Shirt says: ‘Explosions are just loud hugs.’
Private Cass Deren (Duros male) – Wears floral swim trunks. Already challenged half the squad to beachball duels. Mixed everyone’s drinks without labeling them. Chaos incarnate.
His feet were bare. His torso exposed to the elements. But make no mistake—Nos Voros was deployed.
Somewhere between "honor guard" and "beach mascot," the Senate Commando stood on sun-bleached sand in regulation-adjacent trunks and a utility strap that likely violated four dress codes. He did not swim. He did not sunbathe. But by some bureaucratic sleight-of-hand, he was deemed a "morale-supporting presence" by higher-ups. He didn't even know the Padawan who's birthday was being celebrated, but the higher ups thought it could be a good show of solidarity with the Jedi Order.
So he stood. He watched. And when the beach got too quiet… Rubrus Squad was already gearing up for a volleyball skirmish. He had dropped off formal card and gift at a table earlier, but he knew he would be expected to mingle. He just... didn't fit in unless things were crumbling around him. At least the volleyball skirmish seemed to improve the Squad's morale.
***
The net snapped taut in the sea breeze, casting long, shifting shadows on the sand. A volleyball arced high overhead—slammed by Bex Jarn, a hulking Besalisk with a bare chest, four flexing arms, and a towel worn like a cape, his orange swim trunks barely containing his enthusiasm.
"Easy, big guy!" Jil Torvan called from the other side, shielding her eyes with a striped Togrutan headwrap. Her lean, muscled frame was all energy, dressed in close-fitting workout shorts and a half-zipped GADF windbreaker already soaked from earlier diving drills. "We’re playing for points, not planetary siege!"
Bex shrugged all four shoulders with theatrical innocence. "Sorry, muscle memory. Was breaching bunkers yesterday."
From the edge of the sand, seated on a foldout crate with a datapad on his knee, Lorne Vesik—a wiry Mirialan with green skin, ritual tattoos across his temples, and reflective black lenses—announced the score without looking up. "Alpha: six. Bravo: four. Jarn’s ego: unmeasurable."
"You’re just mad because I beat you to the last burger," Bex shouted, narrowly missing a low serve from Cass Deren, a lanky, long-limbed Duros with wraparound shades, a floral tank top, and an energy drink balanced on his head like it owed him rent.
"Not my fault your gut’s a war crime." Cass cackled as he flipped the ball up with one foot and launched it toward Rann Kyber.
Rann, a quiet Nautolan with sleek black tendrils pulled into a tactical wrap, moved with sea-smooth grace. His swim vest bore target hash marks like a joke only he got. He didn’t call for it. Didn’t celebrate. He just placed the ball perfectly into the gap between Tash Renn and Karis Vonn.
Tash, the fresh-faced Chandrilan rifleman, dove hard—overshot—and faceplanted into the sand. His blue swim tee was tucked into his shorts military-style, and his sunscreen was applied with precision that bordered on ceremonial.
"Formations, Tash," Karis said, helping him up with one hand and spinning the ball in the other. Her black hair was pulled into a severe braid, and she wore sharp-lined tactical sunglasses like she expected to be ambushed mid-match. "Sand isn’t a sentient threat. You can relax the parade ground stance."
"I am relaxed," Tash replied stiffly. "Respectfully."
A sharp whistle blew—Jil had found one somewhere, of course—and the players rotated positions amid the jeers and snark of spectators. A few Jedi younglings clapped from the dune’s edge. More senior GA personnel lingered at the periphery, drinks in hand, laughter easy.
"Sides are still open!" Jil barked, raising both arms and spinning in the sand. "Anyone wants to test their reflexes, we’ve got uniforms in morale-support orange and desert regulation teal!"
"Warning," Vesik added without looking up, "Alpha has a kill count today. Department Ecological preservation might catch you on sand crab murder."
Laughter rolled through the camp. But not all eyes were on the game.
Some turned toward a patch of shadow beyond the dunes.
There, arms crossed, sat Nos Voros.
His crimson skin caught faint highlights from the sun. The teal swim trunks were standard issue—if such a thing could be said of 'morale-control' deployments—and the utility strap at his hip was a silent defiance of full disarmament. Muscles corded beneath his skin as if bracing for impact, and his eyes tracked... nothing in particular. No smiles. No amusement.
Just the distance. And the edge of the water.
Jil’s smile dimmed briefly. Karis said nothing. Vesik glanced his way, then back to the datapad.
"He’ll come around," the Mirialan murmured, more to himself than anyone else. "Eventually."
The ball rose again. Bravo’s line shifted. Sand crunched under combat-trained heels as Fireteam Alpha adjusted with the precision of a unit that had drilled together through worse.
The game continued—cheers, sweat, flying sand—but one space remained open at the edge of the court.
Waiting.
@OPEN (Nos will go mingle after brooding is complete)
Jonyna hadn't been back to Corellia's beaches since breaking up with Jenn. Returning to the place they had met, it was rough. Normally, Jonyna would be on the waves, hanging loose.
Instead, she was walking up to her friend, with a towel in hand.
"Room for one more? I need to ear to chew on. Got something eating at me."
Loomi was acutely aware of the celebration that was going on today, but other matters seemed to draw her attention to the seas of Corellia as opposed to staying put on the beach. It wasn't anything mystical, but rather a matter of simple enjoyment. She did better out on the water than on beaches anyways. Sand always got in the joints of her legs, but her prosthetics were fully waterproof. No trouble there. So she sat on a peer adjacent to the beach that the others had gathered on and wove the Mist into a sail...
She didn't need much more than the finishing touches now. Creating a seaworthy vessel was a bit new to her, but she was willing to give it a shot if not simply for recreational purposes. She had prepared along with it an assortment of books to read, a few snacks, and a small package of sodas. She'd simply set out onto the water, settle the ship in a nice, quiet spot, and indulge in a little reading she had sorely missed on since becoming a Knight... That was still such a surreal thing, being a Knight. It would take some getting used to. Fortunately she seemed to have plenty of time to get become acclimated to the title.
"If that's the truth, then I think you're more deserving of it than someone like me. You're always so collected, so kind. You put others before yourself without even hesitating. You seem to know—know what to do, know what's expected, know how to give people what they need whether they want it or not."
The Godoan paused, chewing at her lip for a moment. Maybe she was letting her thoughts live a little to loudly within her head. Braze had seemed so certain that she had been the most deserving of the rank of Knight over him...
Maybe she just needed to clear her mind and get some rest. She hadn't been getting much as of late. That was a good idea.
Corellia now this is his first time that Tyron paid a visit and taken a trip to Corellia, headed for the beaches where apparently there was something being organised. He spotted a few fellow Jedi and Alliance individuals had gathered around to a few spots on the beach. A few volleyball nets and courts being pinned up along with towels and picnic blankets being around. This was going to be a bit of an endurance test for Tyron warm environments effect his species greatly if they over exert themselves in kind of activities.
"Phew.. This is.. Hot sheesh.. I'm gonna be tested in this environment. But I suppose the waters are the best go to place for me. Get a swim or something in. Wonder who else is here..."
Tyron sighed as he heads down the beach just going into the water knee deep and crouched down to soak himself to cool off for now. He only came in with a pair of swim shorts and sandals on his feet so the hot sand wouldn't irritate him. He doesn't his body or feet to end up being the source of any burns or heat that he can avoid. He was considering getting refreshments once it had cooled down a little after a swim or few.
"Ah.. Much better.. Cool, peaceful water.. Can dip in and dive under to just avoid the heat for a little while. Mind you I wouldn't mind having some company. Maybe there's a few here already that I might recognise if I take a look around after a final swim in these waters."
The ocean. The waves. Flowing back and forth. It was calming for Shan, as he just let himself float out in the sea. He wasn't overly concerned for how much he was dragged out. He had the endurance to swim back if he needed to. To get all the way back to the shore. But he was happy to relax with the waves. Perhaps it was lonely that he was here by himself. He knew there were other Jedi having fun on the beach but it wasn't really Shan's place. He wasn't overly social or energetic when it came to things. He'd prefer to meditate. To have fun in his own mind.
So that's what he did. The Mirialan at the whims of the tide as he floated out, spread almost starfish like. It felt like it was dragging him away from his worries and concerns. The Galaxy was in chaos. Sure, the Core might have been getting rebuilt and fixed...but there were still the outer rim. The Sith. They'd continue to cause destruction. And whilst Shan would always rebuild and help, he was not a fighter. He couldn't stop the chaos. He couldn't stop the suffering. He could only treat it. He was not a good Jedi. Shan had accepted that...but it still wasn't a thought he liked to have.
Plenty of recent experiences had made him realise that. And some not so recent ones. Discussions with people he cared about. Finding out how different his values were to the Jedi he looked up to or respected. He knew plenty of Jedi who would dedicate themselves to the Order. They could not take a break with the state of the Galaxy in the way it was...but Shan? He could. Other people could do these jobs better than Shan. He did what he could. But there were people out there who could do his job. Perhaps even better. The trip he took to Concordiah had also made him debate if this was the right thing as well for him...They had been so welcoming. It had been like he had found a new family. The Jedi were a family to him in a way...but he wasn't sure what path to take.
He just let these thoughts flow through his mind as he flowed with the tide. It was his way of relaxing. Letting his thoughts out as he stared up at the clouds, watching them float on past him. Life would continue to float on past Shan. The question was what would he do with his life? Would he dedicate himself to the Jedi fully? Would he abandon the Galaxy to its fate? Shan liked to believed that he wouldn't abandon people in need. That he'd continue to rebuild and heal as much as he could...but he didn't want to be arrogant. There was every chance that he might leave. It's what his family had done. Perhaps he'd fall into the same trap. At that, Shan closed his eyes and let himself float once more.
Countless times had Thilarii stood alongside his own overlooking the grandest views throughout the galaxy while on mission. But something was to be said for the open blue fading beyond the horizon while surrounded by fine company. So often had he been instructed by council and therapist to seek penance for his actions, to make peace for sins left untold through the lips of dead men laid low across the stars. Of course, behind the thousands of masks worn for every occasion, there would be no confession. However, with time secured and a chance to lay low, Thilarii was not soon to let it pass him. Dressed in the lower half of a combat glove and a flight jacket to conceal all but his chest, Thilarii brought himself to rest beyond the commotion of Jedi and senate alike within the shade of grand Corellian flora. An idle gaze crossed his face, staring out into the open blue, his hair down and done for the first time in recent memory. Peace secured over silence, which'd never last forever. Just beyond their group were the twenty-odd commandos of Able platoon and their navy crewmen enjoying fine company amongst themselves and the medicos of the 44th through the only way they knew how. Though being adults and acting as such, their rowdy behavior never spiraled out of control in the presence of such lofty company.
Their reason for being there wasn't entirely clear either, something to do with the SIA tipping them off and presenting a red letter, most likely. But they were here and planned to make the most of it while it lasted. In line with that tip-off, Thiarii had made a quick pitstop before their arrival in hopes of surprising the birthday girl. Though given her reaction gauged from a distance, he decided best to hold off for now.
Though the captain did present a weapon as always- a blunt weapon in grasp, and truth, no weapon at all! Instead, an ornate Guitar brought from distant lands and more to the point, from his ship. Off to the edge of that forming band of friendly faces, Thilarii put his heart and soul into the strings. Time best spent training reserved to find inner peace now presented to all who'd listen.
Thiarii's gaze soon swept the gathering, settling upon one captain Skea of the 44th who's freelanced lifeguards were being perused by his own. For but a moment did he place a flat hand against the strings of his instrument, hailing the captain and senator of Hosnian Prime with a smile and flash of palm, beckoning her to join him in the shade. "You look tired, senator! come on rest a while." Thilarii returned to his music, personally saved from the oppressive heat burning the others present alive!
Invited out to rest and relax on the beaches of Corellia for a Jedi's birthday celebration, it was certainly a chance Jessikal would not pass up. Especially if the rest of the 44th are allowed to come as well. Corellia was similar to Hosnian Prime, albeit much more urbanized. But the beach itself was gorgeous. Clear blue water. Soft sand. Clean as far as the eyes could see. The 44th and Jessikal all walked down to the beach, each wearing uniforms that they designed for this special occassion. While Jessikal believed that everyone did know how to swim, it doesn't hurt to have lifeguards to just watch over the beach. As the 44th spread out, taking up positions on towers, applying sunscreen on themselves, or going around handing out frozen treats to patrons. A squad of Ariem went to the shack, pulling out fresh fruits to make smoothies for the guests, something to go along with the meat being cooked. Even if the Ariem did not consume meat, they will help compliment people's meals.
Jessikal directed some others to bring in extra coolers of ice and drinks to assist in keeping people hydrated and cool for today's events. As for the gift for the Jedi, that was the challenge. Jessikal didn't know this person at all. Finding a gift that is both endearing and personal, was a tall ask. But the 44th and Jesssikal did manage to make something for the Jedi, which was neatly wrapped in beautiful wrapping paper. Jessikal had the present firmly in her arms when she noticed the 139th Commando Regiment starting to come in. Of course they mingled with her members of the 44th, and naturally the Ariem were receptive and kind.
Jessikal turrned to the head officer before giving a small chuckle "Tired? Maybe I didn't sleep enough on the trip here. But I am relaxed. Merely observing the party and ensuring everyone is having a good time."
Eve had just finished repositioning the drink table — again — when movement along the path caught her eye. A few figures had begun to appear in the distance: silhouettes she recognised, and a few she didn’t. One or two waved when they saw her, and she waved back with a gentle smile, but her gaze was already drifting toward the one figure she’d been waiting for the most.
There.
Red hair whipped in the breeze, and a mechanical foot kicked up sand with every uneven step. Reina.
Eve’s heart squeezed. She could see the hesitation, the flush rising to her friend’s cheeks, the confusion and disbelief written across every line of her face. And then — what a joy to see it — that shuffle. That Reina shuffle. Eve bit her lip to keep the grin from getting too wide.
As Reina finally reached her, murmuring that little 'thank you', Eve wasted no time.
She surged forward and wrapped her arms around the redhead in a big, warm squeeze, lifting her just a little before settling her back down again.
"You’re here," she beamed, voice soft and full of affection. "I’m so glad you came."
She didn’t comment on the fluster. She didn’t need to. Instead, she reached for the low table nearby, and took the small, delicate gift box.
"For you. Happy birthday, Reina," she said, offering it with both hands. "I made it myself."
Inside, nestled on soft fabric, was the pendant: an elegant silver amulet containing a tiny vial of water, humming faintly with the Light. It was a quiet enchantment, like Eve herself—no flash, no grand flourish, just something that would steady the heart and soothe the soul.
"I imbued it with Light. It has ocean water from Manaan too. If you focus on it, it'll give you focus and calm. So... wherever you go," Eve said quietly, looking into Reina’s eyes, "the sea — and I — will be with you."
She smiled then. Nothing else needed to be said.
Not right now.
Just the sea.
Just the gift.
Just love, offered freely, like waves meeting the shore.
More and more people were showing up at the Beach...but they didn't seem to be here for Reina. They were doing their own thing. That was good. She didn't have to worry about having to deal with strangers. Have to deal with people wishing her a great day. She could just....focus on Tigris and Eve. That was good. Reina could feel the nerves somewhat fading at this point. The sight of the banners and everything had made her worried that it was going to be a huge surprise party...but if it was a small thing? She could cope with it.
Reina made a mental note to talk to Tigris after she was done talking to Eve. Tigris and Reina weren't exactly close but...well, Tigris didn't need to help out with this. So Reina wanted to go and thank her. But first, she had to talk to her best friend as Reina turned her attention over towards Eve, a small rosy blush creeping onto Reina's cheeks as she looked at her best friend.
Her eyes fell upon the gift for a moment, and Reina felt her heart seemingly stop for a moment. It was a kind gift. One Reina would treasure for a long time. It made Reina feel strange however. It wasn't because of the Light stored in it though. No. It was because it was from Eve. Reina couldn't explain it but the more she spent around her friend, the more...warm Reina felt. At ease. She couldn't explain the feeling. So all she did was step forward and pull Eve into an embrace.
"...Thank you. I'll treasure it. Because it reminds me of the Sea. And you. I'll...be back. I'm going to talk to Tigris."
At that, Reina stepped away from Eve and made her way over towards the "Chef", giving her an awkward smile alongside a wave. The smell of food was good. She'd wish there was more seafood but the meat was good enough for Reina. She wasn't much of a vegetarian fan herself. It was important at the end of the day...but sometimes you just wanted to eat stuff that wasn't good for you.
"Hey...I just wanted to thank you...for showing up. You didn't have to. I know Eve probably convinced you to...but all the same...I appreciate it. I don't know if you do hugs. I know...I really don't but..."
It was a small offer. Reina was willing to be vulnerable with Tigris. Reina didn't like hugging most people. She wasn't a fan of physical contact. Hell, she wasn't a fan of affection most of the time but today was different. If people were going to go out of their way to do stuff for her, she might as well show her appreciation.
Perail had long waited for a chance to see Corellia. She had heard so much about that planet, and met so many people from there, but travel through the galaxy was not something so easily accessible to her. It had taken some pleading with her master to be allowed to go, but in the end, she prevailed on the grounds that first of all, she needed to experience more of the galaxy she was to move in, and second, no person was an island and it was good for her to meet more of the Jedi order, even if it came at the cost of, temporarily, leaving a more contemplative posture. Her master had wisely understood that being deprived of socialisation altogether would not be beneficial for a young woman like her.
For a while, Perail sat on the sand in a modest tunic covering her swimwear. Her master had reminded her to be mindful not only of her reactions to others, but also her effect on them. She was soaking in the sun and meditating on the sensation of the sun on her skin, the sand beneath her feat, the sea breeze in her face. It was an unfamiliar environment.
Eventually, she stood up and began to wander around. Still unfamiliar with the people around, she spotted a group of people playing volleyball, and approached. She followed the game for a while and it became clear to her that these were not Jedi, nor initiates, nor service corps members—these were military people. They had an altogether different energy to them, and strangely enough, Perail found that she liked their liveliness.
"Sides are still open! Anyone wants to test their reflexes, we’ve got uniforms in morale-support orange and desert regulation teal!"
"Can I join?" Perail smiled at them. This caused some consternation among the playing soldiers, as she was clearly not one of them, even if she was an athletic young woman. But after a moment, it dawned on them that this innocent-looking creature was probably a Jedi learner and not simply a random person, and that meant that all was not necessarily as it appeared to be. And indeed, despite her slight figure, what she was lacking in musculature and height, she made up for with quick reflexes and astonishingly high jumps, and she applied herself to the game with enthusiasm and a surprising degree of competitiveness.
Valery blinked her eyes open at the familiar voice, lashes lifting to meet the sunlight again as she turned her head slightly on the towel. A warm breeze teased a few strands of hair loose from her ponytail as she looked up, catching sight of Jonyna approaching.
A slow, genuine smile tugged at her lips.
"Of course I've got room," she said, shifting a bit to pat the towel beside her. The spot was still warm from the sun, soft and undisturbed. "Always have time for a friend." She pushed herself up onto one arm, letting the other drape loosely across her midsection as her gaze softened. "Sounds like something's been chewing at you. Go on, sit. You've got my ear."
Valery's voice remained calm, open — that rare kind of presence that didn't demand anything, just offered space to speak, or not, if that was easier. She didn't press. Just waited, the sound of the waves filling the quiet between them as her smile lingered, steady and patient.
TAG: Valery Noble
Jonyna couldn't help but smile back. It was nice to have friends like Val. Taking a moment to lay out her towel, Jonyna let out a sigh as she laid down on it.
"Just looking for some advice from a friend. Trying to figure out if I should put myself back on the market, or just swing for a while. Enjoy being single for once."
Ever since breaking up with Jenn, Jonyna had been struggling with these thoughts. The thought of going back to Taam, or finding someone new. She just hated being alone, sleeping in an empty bed. It reminded her only of her days on the run, when safety wasn't so assured...
Sand crunched in a slow, steady rhythm as Aiden walked the edge of the surf, where water kissed the beach and retreated again. His boots hung loosely from one hand, forgotten the moment he'd felt warm sand between his toes. The sun above was gentle, not the harsh glare of battlefield heat but something softer—almost forgiving.
For once, he didn't carry a weapon. No rifle slung across his back, no armor plates weighing him down. Just the faded fabric of a buttoned shirt rolled to his elbows and trousers cuffed above his ankles. The sound of the ocean was different from the roar of engines or distant shelling. It breathed. Steady. Rhythmic. Calming.
He let out a slow breath of his own.
A group laughed farther down the beach, likely over a spilled drink or a botched volleyball serve. He didn't look just yet. This moment was its own kind of balm. The kind a man like him didn't realize he needed until it was already washing over him. Aiden stopped and glanced out across the endless blue. He'd seen skies like that from the viewport of a dropship, usually before things went sideways.
