Private Let the Candle Burn

[Valaine Valentine]

Tags - Vakhari Lutris

Malachor V... With its frequent storms, acrid pools of acid and jagged stone, it wasn't the most romantic place in the galaxy, and definitely the last choice for a romantic dinner.

Valaine had done the best that she could, even made a few special orders to get certain few items brought down to the planet, but the scene had finally been set...

Within Vakhari's lab was the doctor's own personal room where she often went to rest, and so it being such a place of expected comfort and sanctuary made it the perfect place for Valaine to utilize. The lights of the room had been dimmed and there stood several candles that dimly lit the area with a warm soft light. She had also brought in a small table with two chairs, upon which was another candle and the food she had prepared.

A dish was plated with a type of poultry breast meat, breaded with light seasoning and blanketed with a melted layer of mild cheese: All of which was served over a sun-dried tomato cream sauce and just a little bit of cut green herbs for garnish and contrast. All in all the young Sangnir had outdone herself. Sure, melting some cheese over meat wasn't that difficult, but it looked really good and she was proud of it.

Besides the plate was naturally a glass of a deep red wine and while Valaine really wasn't much of a drinker she had simply gone for the merchant's choice and hoped that such a drink would suit the young Lutris. She knew that coffee would've been an easy safe choice, but where was the fun in taking the reliable tried and true one? Instead she sought to be a little more bold with her decisions.

Across the whole room there was the final touch that Valaine was certain had to be done in order to complete the scene; red rose petals strewn all about the room. They were sprinkled on the floor, upon the table, and of course the bed as well. It was going to be a pain to clean up afterwards but in her mind it was well worth the effort.

The Sangnir had spared no effort upon herself either; for just once in her life she had actually taken consideration in her appearance. Her long dark hair, which was so often left to just fall freely where it pleased, was now in a loose thick braid that formed halfway down the length of her long straight locks, tied at the end with a ritualistic thread that might be familiar to Vakhari.

Along with this Valaine wore a rather loose and flowing black dress, baring her shoulders and wrapping around her chest firmly, but turning loose as it flowed further down her body. Form-fitting attire was never quite that appealing to the Sangnir who always preferred to hide herself away in such a sense. And of course... there was a generous amount of her own coffee-scented perfume that had been applied to her pale neck and wrists.

It was all set, all as perfect as she hoped it'd be, and now... She just had to wait to surprise Vakhari with her display. The lingering thought that this might be the one time the doctor didn't retire to her room was a dread she didn't want to think about...

 

[Vakhari Lutris]

Tag: Valaine Valentine

It was a long day, the same as ever really. Vakhari working on projects such as the automatic blood farming machine, watching her student just in case she dropped some vial of highly dangerous liquid... And of course doing everything she could to warden over her lab.

The girl had been stuck in her own mind all day, not paying enough attention to keep an eye on Valaine. Normally, a tragedy really... Today? A boon for the lovestruck Sangnir, able to get all her careful preparations done while Vakhari was busy elsewhere in the lab all day.

As she approached her room, her pale little nose never did catch wind of the bounty of food that had been cooked just for her. Was it because she was just too worn out to even notice the smell? No, it was thanks to the very nit picked cleaning/ventilation systems she so adamantly demanded to be installed right where she desired them, and not an inch wrong.

Seeking to retire to her bed for the night, she did her typical little ritual. Attire taken off in a very specific way, a birsk cleaning, followed lastly by adorning her comfy set of pajamas.

As she opened the door, the smell was finally able to hit her. Eyes jutting to life as she hazily glanced around the room, spotting the meal... And of course Valaine.

Almost about to ask why in the world Valaine was just sitting in here with food and garbed in a dress, she remembers now. Days ago she had requested this, and now the surprise was here.

Sheepishly like a cautious mouse, she steps into the room to get a better look at what all was here- and what all Valaine did just for her.

"Uh-"

Her speech stammers as she glances at the rose petals strewn about her room, she didn't quite understand why plant trimmings were put around the space. But, her eyes kept focusing on Valaine time and time again. She looked nice, well kempt, smelled wonderful...

"I- Well- Didn't expect this."

Vakhari chuckles a bit, trying to understand the environment she had entered. Entangled between her habits and the flames of love, it left her far more timid than Valaine had ever seen before.

"You're nicely dressed, and here I am in my sleeping attire."

It was ironic in a way, for once the one with noble blood was the one dressed in less fancy attire.

"Do I umm... Need to change?"

It didn't seem like she was going to sleep just yet.

​

 

[Valaine Valentine]

Tags - Vakhari Lutris
(Mentioned - Viscountess Pandora )

Valaine could hear Vakhari approaching towards the door before it opened, and so she took a moment to stand at the ready besides the table to greet her warmly. A hand brushed through her hair, her posture kept straight and a smile was placed upon her face.

Then the door opened.

The young Sangnir realized quickly the fault in her plan as Vakhari entered in her nightwear. The fact it was a surprise meant that she'd absolutely not be dressed for the occasion... But, this was fine. No, this was great actually. She maintained her warm smile as she gestured for the Lutris to come closer as she moved towards one of the chairs and pulled it out for her.

"It's fine, this night is about you, 'Khari, so you don't have to change, you just need to wear whatever you're comfortable in." she spoke softly in return. "I'm... Just hoping you're not too tired." she chuckled somewhat nervously, trying to hide her concern that she picked an awful time for this. She glanced down at her own attire and gave a light nod of thanks, the blush on her pale cheeks clear to see at the small compliment.

"You like it? Thought I'd uh, give it a try you know? Pandora's pretty fashion-minded... really into that kinda stuff, so I just sort of... raided her wardrobe. I'm sure she won't miss just one dress..." She then glanced around the room for a moment. "And... You know, I'll clean this all up too, the petals, candles, dishes, so don't worry about any of it. Just take a seat, have a drink, eat some food, and I'll take care of the rest."

Her intent was clear, as much as this was a date she was going to pamper Vakhari too, especially since she had walked in seemingly tired...

 

[Vakhari Lutris]

Tag: Valaine Valentine

She is ushered to her seat, Valaine being sure to inform her that the nightwear was fine... Worked for Vakhari, after a long day she kinda didn't want to change out of her gown anyway.

"Don't worry about me, I can stay awake."

Vakhari says, the dark bags under her ruby eyes told a different story. Yet the smell of the food, a person she actually cared about... Dim lights too even. It all helped her get a little more comfortable despite the flustered feelings she wrestled with in her gut.

"You cooked all this?"

The girl smiles, taking a better look at the food. Had anyone ever bothered to treat her like this that wasn't obligated to? No, not at all.

Did she enjoy it...? Yes, but with mixed feelings. She wasn't sure how to feel, her pale face warming as she kept her smile just thinking about Valaine.

Taking her assigned cup she lifts it close to her nose, sniffing at the provided liquid. Was this wine? She had never drank alcohol before, why drink a poison?

At first she starts to lower the cup, her senses wrinkling at the very thought of the wine. However, she had taken a plunge into the unknown by indulging in the strange feelings she has for Valaine- Why not just give it a try?

Putting her trust in Valaine she takes a minor but curious sip, the red wine staining her soft lips as she actually enjoyed the taste... Licking her lips afterward.

"Wait- You... 'raided' someone else's wardrobe?"

Valaine can see as Vakhari looks over at her own wardrobe, raising a brow at the Sangnir.

"Just messing with you."

She giggles, setting down her cup.

"Soooo what are the petals for?"

It was extremely easy to see that Vakhari had zero clue why there was parts of a plant strung about her room.​

 

[Valaine Valentine]

Tags - Vakhari Lutris

Valaine waited for Vakhari to sit down, lightly pushing her chair forward again before she then moved to her side and leaned down to meet her face. Vakhari could smell the coffee-scented perfume on the Sangnir who seemed to be looking towards her eyes, but not into them, at the mention of the doctor being awake.

Gently she reached her hand forward as her pale clean thumb brushed just under one of Vakhari's eyes with a light pout. "You look as tired as I do." she commented softly. She was a lot more bold around the doctor these days, willing to casually touch her in such a fashion more often, and it helped that Vakhari was typically always assured that the Sangnir frequently washed her hands now.

With a light sniff Valaine's heightened senses picked up a scent as her tired grey eyes shifted towards Vakhari's long white hair. "Mm, you hair smells nice... Did you do something different...?" she asked before she finally leaned back and stood up, making her way over to her own seat as she sat down with a smile of content as she now looked across the table towards the doctor.

"You cooked all this?"

"Not too bad, huh?" she asked proudly. "It looks more complicated than it actually was, though... But it should taste really good. It's uh, poultry, cheese, and the soup under it all is tomato-something." she answered, she couldn't remember the specific names herself. As she watched Vakhari smile she felt a beat in her own heart, to catch her looking so pleased with something Valaine had done was all she could have asked for. If that was the only thing she gave her for this whole night she'd be happy with it.

When Vakhari moved to take a sip of her wine Valaine did the same as she reached for her own glass. She didn't know anything about wine, at all, and so she just took a curious sip of the glass and then winced. It turns out Valaine didn't like red wine, much to the shame of every Sangnir out there no doubt. But she tried not to let it show on her face as she set the glass back down. At the very least it seemed that her teacher enjoyed it.

"Hah, well, I think any of your clothes would be way too small on me." she smirked softly in response. "Not that I'm not curious what kind of wardrobe Miss Lutris here keeps of course. Only ever see you in your labcoat most of the time." she chuckled as she picked up her knife and fork, taking the first cut of her meal as she brought it to her lips and ate.

Thankfully, at least for the Sangnir, her own cooking was delicious. The meat perfectly cooked through, the cheese complimenting the crunchy texture of the breading, the sauce adding just an extra pinch of flavor, and with a savory taste that when all combined melted in the mouth. She gave a light hum of delight in response to the taste before she swallowed down.

"Soooo what are the petals for?"

At the question she glanced towards the rose petals on the floor, and some of the ones on the table as she pinched one and lifted it. "Well... Apparently it's uh, romantic. I... Couldn't really tell you why though. But... well, do you like it? Do you feel... Romanticized by it?" she asked with a light raise of a brow in question, letting the petal drift from her finger after a light blow from her lips.

 

[Vakhari Lutris]

Tag: Valaine Valentine

Getting herself more comfortable in the chair, she eyes her drink again right before Valaine asks her a question.​

"Mm, you hair smells nice... Did you do something different...?"

"Oh! Yes actually... I uh- I did it for you. I was hoping you would notice, I think the scent is lilly with vanilla?"

She answers in a sheepish and embarrassed tone. A sweet and gentle smell, adorned for all for a sweet and gentle person she was growing to love even if she didn't know what label to put on it.​

"Not too bad, huh?" she asked proudly. "It looks more complicated than it actually was, though... But it should taste really good. It's uh, poultry, cheese, and the soup under it all is tomato-something."

All of this, every little smell, dish of food... She was rather used to either just eating something subpar to get fuel in her, or on the rare occasions where her family sat down for silent dinners. But this? It frustrated her that she couldn't put a pin in whatever this was, and normally she wouldn't be able to.

The clarity that Valaine had been able to give the struggling girl helped guide her through emotional moments like this, allowing her to find a decent answer for all this.

Care.

Valaine, with all her flaws, cared. She cared for Vakhari in a way the young Lutris had never once experienced before, she showed care for someone who hated everything.

Vakhari takes a bite of the food, the flavour making the pale woman hum with delight. It was so good, it held a hidden ingredient that she had never tasted before. That of love. That funny feeling we get in our guts when faced with someone we hold dear, the annoying burning of your cheeks as you try to talk to them.

And by the hells it tasted amazing...
​

"Well... Apparently it's uh, romantic. I... Couldn't really tell you why though. But... well, do you like it? Do you feel... Romanticized by it?"

Even if she didn't understand it either, she had learned to appreciate it nonetheless.

"So you don't get it eith-"

The petal Valaine blew flew right across the table, hitting Vakhari right on her pale nose.

In retaliation and to dish out deserved justice, she takes a small handful of the petals. Blowing them over at Valaine, having a bit of a giggle fit after.

"This is all amazing, no one has ever bothered to do this for me before. Thank you."

She was living in the moment, paying little attention to anything else aside from the person she had grown fond of over their time together.



​

 

[Valaine Valentine]

Tags - Vakhari Lutris

"Oh! Yes actually... I uh- I did it for you. I was hoping you would notice, I think the scent is lily with vanilla?"​

It came as some surprise to the Sangnir, who still often believed that the doctor was very much unaware of any sort of desire to appease others. But here she was, taking mental note of Valaine and doing something so subtly sweet just for her. She felt the heat rising in her cheeks as they flushed with a tint of color in response, her smile barely contained as she thinned her lips and gazed upon the young Lutris with a sense of silent adoration.

"For me...?" she asked as she raised her brows in surprise. "Why would you want me to notice, 'Khari~?" she asked in a teasing tone. Was the doctor truly falling for her as she had hoped she would some day? The progress had been slow, yes, but never had something so direct been spoken by her; it was a milestone in their developing relationship with one another.

Then as Vakhari reached for a fistful of petals and blew them back at the Sangnir in retaliation she simply let the crimson petals fall over her, landing in her hair, brushing off the pale skin of her face, and one settling on her bared shoulder; offering a stark contrast of red against an alabaster canvas. A smile appeared on her soft lips in response to the doctor's amusement, cherishing every moment she smiled and laughed. How often did she get to do that in such an innocent and genuine manner? How rare was the sight of her apparent affection?

"This is all amazing, no one has ever bothered to do this for me before. Thank you."

A light hum of amusement came in response from Valaine, "I'm glad you like it, it means a lot to me you know, having you here in this moment. A lot better than our last meal together, huh?" she asked as she took another sip from her glass of wine. Yup, still didn't like it.

Valaine then sought to ask a rather personal question, to try and help Vakhari break further out of her shell. She'd ask her directly; "How does it make you feel?".

 

[Vakhari Lutris]

Tag: Valaine Valentine
​

"Why would you want me to notice, 'Khari~?"

Back then she would have not thought about it all too much, used to be no reason. Life has a funny way of throwing curveballs right at you, with Valaine being one of them.

Why did she want her to notice? The thought makes the girl begin to idly twist a finger in her pale locks, what could she even say that would make sense?

"I-"

She struggles to find the right words for a moment before finding them.

"You like to put scents on, ones that smell appealing to me... I figured I would do the same for you."

Her blush intensifies, only an idiot would realize the girl was only half telling the truth. The real issue was Vakhari herself being able to properly vocalize that feeling, perhaps she would have if she knew what to say?

"Our last meal had some moments! The neon lights were nice, I guess."

Moments indeed, it wasn't often your attempts at romance were disturbed by some shadowy eldritch nonsense....

"I'm not sure how to feel- or rather how to express it."

Using her lengthy hair as a protective and comforting blanket, she seems to coil herself away to try and separate from the conversation. However, the smell within her hair kept Vakhari there. Not just the everyday Vakhari, this was a side unseen by anyone else. The more flustered, budding emotions, shy Vakhari.

"My time with you has made me feel strange, now when I look at you in moments like this my guts feel uneasy- In a good way! I think?"

She sighs, tapping at her fingers on the table as she tried to think.

"When we spend time together it feels nice, even if I have to keep an eye on you sometimes."

The girl jests, chuckling nervously as her soft hand ran down her cheek to hide her blush.

"But this? It feels more than just nice, it makes me forget, helps me-"

Her hands begin to shake as her soft face builds in heat, heart starting to beat uncomfortably.

"Helps me ignore who I am, and what I do."

Valaine is starting to dig further than anyone else had done before, so close to learning who Vakhari is. ​

 

[Valaine Valentine]

Tags - Vakhari Lutris

Valaine listened as Vakhari answered her rather direct question, grey tired eyes focusing upon her intently. She saw it all, her blush, her light stutter of words, the way she tried to hide her face with her soft white hair. It made the Sangnir's heart flutter to see the doctor baring her emotions so openly, wearing them upon her sleeve. She could even hear the beat of her heart with her sharpened senses, thumping lightly but quickly.

She swallowed down a breath as the sight alone probably put her in something of a similar state as she brushed a hand through her dark hair as her gaze averted briefly. Her fang could be seen briefly as she bit down on her lip in nervous thought. She had orchestrated this night, she had been blatant with her attraction towards Vakhari, but now she found herself full of concern and adoration upon hearing her words.

Storm grey eyes turned back towards the young Lutris as she smiled towards her, "If anything, 'Khari... I'm glad that I can help distract you from whatever troubles you might have... And that feeling you're getting, it's... Well... Affection, right?" asked Valaine, she didn't want to call it love, that was far too strong a word to throw at someone and she wasn't entirely certain about it herself. But affection seemed about right, especially for someone who wasn't so used to the emotion.

"When I look at you I feel it as well, I have for a long while now. At first... Yeah, it was just physical attraction, you're beautiful after all... But the more time we spent together the more I started to see behind it, the more I started to see you." she spoke as her hands clenched at the edge of the table. Her words were bold, they were honest, and they made her feel vulnerable.

"You don't have to be nervous or concerned around me though. I want to be someone you can go to for comfort, someone you can rely on, and hide away with from the Galaxy if you ever feel the need to..." she said with soft words of gentle desire and adoration. She took a deep breath and stood up, she had to make an offer, to try and show Vakhari what she meant. She stood besides her and opened her arms wide in a gesture, "Come here 'Khari." she said as she offered her a warm and comforting embrace. She thought that in a time where the doctor was so uncertain it might help her to realise what her feelings meant.

 

[Vakhari Lutris]

Tag: Valaine Valentine

Valaine seemed to have it figured out, while the teacher didn't... Such irony was definitely not lost as she soaked in the emotions.
​

"Come here 'Khari."

She gladly takes the offer, seeking some form of comfort. The young Lutris latching tightly against Valaine as her little heart skipped a beat. Her head couldn't be bothered with who was the teacher and who was the student, she just wanted to feel. To bask in the warm radiance of affection, be taken over by a blanket of comfort.

"Y-yes, affection!"

Vakhari breaks down a little, tears starting to soak into Valaine's borrowed dress.

"I don't understand it, I don't.."

She wipes away at her tears, glancing up at Valaine with watery eyes.

"I thought this galaxy was nothing but rot, nothing but waste. But you??? You somehow slip right past what I really am, how I really see everything and everyone."

Taking a moment she presses her face back up against Valaine's chest, still trying to control her sobbing.

"The way I feel about the galaxy can't even properly be described, how I see all those sacks of greedy flesh... Germ ridden animals. That is how I desperately wanted to just see you, another tool, some germ filled skinvelope. I wanted to hate you so that you never saw me, and all those more mechanical thoughts... ALL of them... I feel guilty about every single one concerning you."

By this point she fully leans on Valaine, too shaken to stand.

"I feel nothing but strange fluttery feelings when I see you- How is it logical to be anxious about if you would enjoy a smell?! It is- I-"

Her breathing picks up, the girl still letting the bottled tears out.

"No one knows why I make things, or why I supply violence. But you? I'll tell you right now, I hate the galaxy with every fiber of my being. My dream is watching it all burn down, and why? I want a new existence where we control our own fates, no false gods, no setbacks in the way of progress. And the things inside of me? They CRAVE bloodshed, they scream all the time, broken and hateful. But how can I burn all of it if I care for you? I don't care about the Court or who is correct in the whole light versus dark that has dragged on for ages, I don't care about Sith, Jedi, Empires.... All worthless to me, all belonging to the fire."

Her pale hands grip tighter, shaking.

"But I would never burn you, I couldn't. I am afraid of people seeing who I really am, some deranged lunatic with screaming nightmares within her body."

And there it was, who Vakhari Lutris really was. But couldn't Valaine agree that the galaxy is rot?

"I care about you in a way I can't even describe, and it frustrates me deeply."

Valaine knew what it is, love.

"What is it? What in the hells am I feeling?"

Her soft lips trembled as she gazed up at Valaine, pale face stricken with frustration and tear stains. It was inviting, a moment for a kiss... If Valaine would try it.

​

 

[Valaine Valentine]

Tags - Vakhari Lutris

It was an embrace Valaine had longed for, for nearly as long as she had known Vakhari, and so when it finally came and she felt the short woman wrap her arms around her she felt her heart skip a beat. She moved one arm to tightly hold around the doctor's back while the other hand moved to stroke through her long white hair in a soothing and comforting manner while she held her close to her chest. Valaine rested her chin atop the pale woman's head as she ran her hand through her hair, feeling the warmth pressed between their forms as she let out a content and soft sigh.

The Sangnir listened as Vakhari bared her heart to her, her deepest thoughts and feelings, who she truly was, and what she truly desired. Valaine couldn't fathom exactly the reasons why she wanted what she did, but to her she was still just Vakhari. A new side of her certainly, a vulnerable and softer side that she had craved to one day see, and as she felt her arms squeeze tighter she could only offer a warmer more firm embrace of her own, intent on offering the young Lutris comfort in her time of distress, confusion, and confession.

In truth Valaine felt almost guilty about what she had seemingly done to Vakhari. Through her constant adoration, affection, and loyal support of her she appeared to have entirely shaken her world view, her ideology, her way of life. It weighed heavy on the Sangnir's mind; she was getting what she desired, sure, but was she destroying her in the progress? Her attraction to Vakhari was born out of an adoration for the joy she saw the doctor take in her work, her inventions, her operations. But now she was confused, tears falling from her beautiful crimson eyes, uncertain and potentially afraid. It was bittersweet to finally be able to hold her, but with the lingering thought that she might've killed a part of her for it.

She leaned her head down as she brushed a hand through Vakhari's hair to reveal her ear as she brought her lips closer and whispered her words; "'Khari... your desires, your goals, they're yours. Even if I don't understand them, even if others don't, they're unique to you. Your dedication, the joy you take in your craft, they're what make you who you are, and it's why I looked at you the way I did when we first met. If who you are deep down is exactly as you say, a 'deranged lunatic', then wear it on your sleeve. It's no less beautiful than the rest of you, because it's you, unashamed and pure, and that's exactly what I've always adored about you. Who cares what others see? What do their opinions matter? If I'm willing to accept it, then anyone else who's opinion is worth knowing will too...".

Valaine leaned back slightly to regard Vakhari, looking down upon her tear-stained face as she offered her a warm smile. "You can still think of me as a greedy germ ridden animal if you really want to, but I'll be the animal that cares about you." she spoke in gentle jest as she tried to lighten the situation just slightly, "Also... 'Skinvelope'..?" she huffed softly in amusement.

She reached a hand to Vakhari's face, her hand cupped her cheek gently as she focused her gaze down upon her. "What you're feeling could be a bunch of things though... Could be affection for me, could be that you're being offered comfort for maybe the first time in your life, could even just be getting the weight off your shoulders by spilling the truth about yourself to me..." she answered as she stared at the woman in thought. She very much felt tempted to reach down and plant a gentle kiss against her lips in that moment, but a part of her thought it cruel. Already she had shaken and bludgeoned the woman mentally, pushed her towards new feelings and sensations in a rush for her own desires, and so to drive her even further towards the edge with a kiss in her most vulnerable state? It felt wrong to do so, it felt like she'd be taking advantage of her. No, she had to take things slowly, carefully, try to temper these emerging emotions with patience and caution.

Instead she brought her thumb to softly brush away the tears on Vakhari's cheek. "... But no matter what the answer, 'Khari, know that I'm always going to be here for you. For comfort, for solace, I'll be your anchor, your place of peace and rest, no matter how crazy things get... That's what I want to be for you. I'm always going to be here..." she answered with her heartfelt words and a warm smile.

 

[Vakhari Lutris]

Tag: Valaine Valentine

Her grip gets tighter, yet it would seem her tears begin to steady out... Being replaced with just pitiable sniffles.

"And I don't expect any of it to make sense, not right now."

She continues to cling to Valaine, this whole surprise ending up to be both more than her or the Sangnir could have ever expected. With Valaine learning more about the doctor, things that only one other soul in the entire galaxy knew.

Vakhari expected to feel nothing but regret in her confessions, yet here she was... Finding that feeling of comfort once again..
​

Who cares what others see? What do their opinions matter? If I'm willing to accept it, then anyone else who's opinion is worth knowing will too...

"What they see is what I want them to, I... Don't want them to see it."

As Vakhari clinged to Valaine, the Sangnir gets to feel something else no one has gotten a chance to. The doctor always masked her force, it never seemed to appear grandiose or overpowering. Within this affectionate moment the mask came off, her genetically perfected potency yawning from slumber as it wrapped around the two.

It felt dark... So so dark. Cold in a way, insatiable and wicked. Yet it gently wrapped Valaine within its midnight, a beautiful black lotus that hummed with power.

Valaine, even in her novice understanding should be able feel it. Even more so as Vakhari seemed to permit entry, an offering of a bond.

"I will never see you as something lesser."

Never before had she felt such comfort in something that wasn't textbooks or the idle hum of machines, never once did she think while doing her studies on Yalra that she would ever find something like this.

Never once did she consider to humor the idea of love, and here it is...

"It's more than simple affection, I know that much."

She takes another big step, gently placing a kiss on Valaine's lips. It was quick, sloppy of course. But did you really expect someone like Vakhari to have kissed people before?

After the kiss she pulls back freeing up one hand to wipe away at her teary cheeks.

"People- Oth- Mm.. You like that, right?"

Her dark little heart continues to thud, this time her full rosey cheeks on display.

​

 

[Valaine Valentine]

Tags - Vakhari Lutris

Valaine tightened her arms around Vakhari as she felt her hands squeeze against her, more than happy to provide her some much needed comfort and warmth. Then she felt it... Typically the Sangnir's understanding and strength with the Force was so weak she could barely sense others with it, but now she felt something potent, something powerful, beginning to surround and smother her in its overbearing presence. It was a dark pressure, but one that sought to hold and caress, to protect, rather than harm or destroy.

She didn't understand what it meant to form a Force Bond with another, she didn't even know of the existence of such a thing, and so when she felt that overwhelming power radiating from the woman in her arms, holding her so gently and with care, she hadn't realized that she had already accepted it. She felt a deeper connection to Vakhari in that moment, the rising heat in her thudding heart growing only more intense with the sensation.

Her tired eyes glanced down at Vakhari as she spoke of affection and she didn't doubt that her dark heart was trembling with emotion at her own confessions. She seemed assured in her judgement, but Valaine knew that she played with a dangerous word. Love. It wasn't something to use lightly or in haste, this much the Sangnir understood. Did she feel like she loved Vakhari? Her affection for her was great and consistent, she probably did love her, but could she say that? She doubted herself. If she was to step further alongside the young Lutris she had to be sure. Now that more was revealed, would something appear or be noticed that might lessen her affection? If she had spoken that word to her and discovered as much after, what then?

It was a word far too powerful to use in the moment, even if she felt in her heart that she might very well love the girl...

Then a blink of surprise as suddenly she felt soft delicate lips push up against her own. She wasn't ready for such a display of affection and so she didn't respond in time to the brief touch of lips. Her storm grey eyes stared down at Vakhari in some manner of disbelief as her face flushed with color.

The words of the doctor snapped her out of her brief daze of surprise.

"People- Oth- Mm.. You like that, right?"

"H- Huh...? Wh-.." she paused to catch her senses, "Y- Yes. I-, I do, yeah..." she nodded in response, still unable to believe that the doctor had taken that initiative, to plant that kiss against her. It stirred her heart with further thoughts of adoration, of want and need. She bit her lip lightly while looking down at Vakhari. "But... More like this..." she spoke softly before she leaned down, eyes closing as she'd move to plant a firm kiss upon the pale woman's lips, holding them pressed against hers as her arms wrapped and squeezed firmly around her form. The taste of coffee and copper was upon the Sangnir's lips.

Vakhari had taken the step she couldn't, and so now the Sangnir sought to indulge herself.

 

[Vakhari Lutris]

Tag: Valaine Valentine ​

"Y- Yes. I-, I do, yeah..."

Finally after all this time she was starting to better understand, it made her feel warm, cozy, happy even to hear such words from the woman she found herself holding a strong affection for. Properly satisfied with her efforts, unknowing that her kiss was... It was something alright. ​

"But... More like this..."

She had done it wrong?! B-But the holotape showed her what to do! Not that she got curious and watched a cheesy guide on kissing like some desperate nerd- No no she would never!

The girl's mild pout quickly faded as Valaine showed her how it is done, the Arkanian sinking into the Sangnir as the comforting sensation melted her away. After being given a kiss in return she would continue to just lean into Valaine, it was her problem now... At least Vakhari wasn't heavy at all.

"Ohhoho I see~!"

There were no efforts to hide her blush-ridden face, no pushback from the gentle arms that held her so closely.

"I'm a visual learner, wouldn't hurt for more lessons."

She makes her own corny joke for once, mirroring the flirty playfulness of Valaine.

"So.... You feel it too then?"

Putting jokes aside, she continues to hug up against the Sangnir.

"Mm.. What is it they say? You hold my heart?"

Vakhari lets out a half amused huff before continuing on.

"Every day it is wonderful to have you around, ironically you have teach me the same time I teach you. I want to have you around more, spend more time with you. Are you- If you feel the same... I would love to be your partner. That's what people call it right?"

Aside from the future, this was the question. The deciding factor on if the two of them wanted to explore this further, and devout their care for one another.


​

 

[Valaine Valentine]

Tags - Vakhari Lutris

After their lips parted Valaine felt Vakhari press up against her with practically her whole weight, though the doctor was extremely light. She continued to support her in her hold as she let the short woman cuddle up against her. Valaine couldn't help but offer a low chuckle of amusement, "Liked it, huh...?" she asked in response as a hand brushed along her back in a comforting manner.

"I'm a visual learner, wouldn't hurt for more lessons."

At those words Valaine leaned her head down a little, cupping Vakhari's face in one hand to tilt it back and gaze into her eyes. In that moment the doctor would see a stare that the Sangnir had never given her before as half-lidded stormy grey eyes stared down upon her with a salacious intent. Even her voice was drawn into a lower more seductive tone as her words were spoken carefully; "That right...? I've got a lot more to show you in that case..." she said in a huskier tone as her hot breath was felt upon Vakhari's lips, that smile of hers sharpening into a smirk.

Then as the young Lutris spoke of affection and potentially more the seductive nature of the Sangnir faded slightly into something more wholesome. "Mm... I've felt something for you for a long while now, 'Khari... I've been hoping you'd eventually take notice, and you finally have..." she answered as a hand moved to brush the back of her fingers against Vakhari's cheek.

"Mm.. What is it they say? You hold my heart?"

A gentle hum of amusement as Valaine nodded, "Sure, that works... You hold my heart in your hands too." she answered with a warm smile.

"Every day it is wonderful to have you around, ironically you have teach me the same time I teach you. I want to have you around more, spend more time with you. Are you- If you feel the same... I would love to be your partner. That's what people call it right?"

It was the final question that had Valaine's eyes widen with surprise once more. By the end of this dinner date she would've been more than happy with just a hug, but now the doctor had surpassed all her expectations and was rushing straight towards offering her... an actual relationship? She breathed in a shuddering breath, she hadn't been prepared for this but she had to maintain her composure.

Her lips moved down to gently brush against Vakhari's as she cherished the closeness and the intimacy. This beautiful woman was right before her and asking her to be hers.

"Partners...?" hummed Valaine gently in thought. "That's one word, yeah... Lovers too but..." she cracked a soft smirk. "Maybe we'll save that title for a little later..." she added before both her arms would move to wrap again around Vakhari's waist, and then all too easily she lifted the short woman up and moved towards the bed. Unless stopped Valaine would drop the both of them down upon it with the Sangnir atop the Arkanian. "But... Yes, 'Khari. I want to spend more time with you, too... I do feel the same..." she affirmed as she leaned down to press another soft and gentle kiss against her lips.

 

[Vakhari Lutris]

Tag: Valaine Valentine

That was that then, no doubt her family wouldn't approve of her relationship... But she didn't care-​

she added before both her arms would move to wrap again around Vakhari's waist, and then all too easily she lifted the short woman up and moved towards the bed.

For once she squeaks not in fear, but in a pleased surprise. Her bubbly giggle fit echoing throughout the room as she was lifted by her lover. She held not a care in this whole existence, her mind cleared of worry in a way hardly anyone would understand.

No more laughing, screaming, yelling. Just the pure silence in the room only faintly interrupted by the fervent beating of her heart.​

Unless stopped Valaine would drop the both of them down upon it with the Sangnir atop the Arkanian. "But... Yes, 'Khari. I want to spend more time with you, too... I do feel the same..." she affirmed as she leaned down to press another soft and gentle kiss against her lips.

It was a gentle plop onto the bed, the dark silky sheets welcoming the pair as Valaine seemed to be on top of her.

"I suppose that makes it official then hmm?"

She gives a genuine smile, her expression of Joy only breaking as they entered another kiss. Would she have typically just kissed someone? Nope. To her it had been nothing but a very easy way to spread germs, some weird thing people did. And while she did still hate the germs, she had quickly learned why people enjoy doing it.... Plus while staying here at the lab she kept the Sangnir squeaky clean.

"W-wait, what about the food you made?"

It did taste pretty good, and there was the wine too. But did she really feel like moving right now? If anything it would be nice to have Valaine with her, still able to hold onto her as they both drifted into sleep...


​

 

[Valaine Valentine]

Tags - Vakhari Lutris

As she lay atop Vakhari she saw a beautiful sight beneath her. A pale woman, hair as white as snow, eyes as red as blood, framed against black silken sheets and crimson petals that circled her like a bloodied night sky. The Sangnir let out a shuddering breath of anticipation as she stroked a hand through Vakhari's soft long hair.

"I suppose that makes it official then hmm?"

"Short of a wedding, yeah..." spoke Valaine in that huskier more seductive tone once more as half-lidded eyes regarded the doctor. To see her so content in the moment, so free of burden and concern, and seemingly happy? It melted her heart.

"W-wait, what about the food you made?"

A playful smirk appeared on the Sangnir's lips as she glanced over her shoulder briefly, "What about it?" she asked as she turned back to the woman beneath her as she let herself lay down upon her fully while she brought her face to her neck. Her lips that often brought caution when near such a place instead only offered comfort and adoration as soft velvet tiers placed against Vakhari's neck as she kissed it, her teeth now and then even nipping at skin ever so slightly as she doted upon the Arkanian delicately.

Her hands brushed up along the sides of her form, tracing fingers steadily along each curve as she offered a heated sigh against her neck. "... I'll clean everything up later..." she spoke in gesture to the dinner, the wine, and the strewn petals about them. For now she just wanted to indulge in this moment.