Tis the Season

[Marzena Vaas]

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Spoiler

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZtBnp5YOO2o

The streets of the Garden District had been dusted with snow, and a light flurry was falling down from the blanket of clouds above. All of the trees that lined the sidewalk had been adorned with strands of lights and the lampposts with lovely wreaths of green. It was the perfect image of an early winter afternoon in Avalonia. The center square was decked out in red ribbons and colorful baubles, and there was even a small ice skating rink set up for all to enjoy during the season. Passersby were welcomed into Hoffman’s Bakery to enjoy a treat, and perhaps a cup of cider or hot chocolate. To further add to the charm, the cheerful voices of carolers could be heard throughout the district.

It was very festive, indeed.

Despite the chill in the air, many citizens had taken to the boutiques and shops that made this area well known. One such shopper was Marzena Choi. The songstress walked leisurely down the sidewalk, her chestnut eyes took in the sights and sounds of the Garden District. Today, she was dressed in a cape that was chic and very warm, and a pair of stylish knee-high boots that were far more suitable for the weather than her heels. Marzena loved to shop, it was a fact most knew, but this afternoon she was not simply here to window shop. She had a small list of people in mind, and she hoped to find something special for all of them. These individuals were important figures in her life, and the recent events had made her appreciate them even more.

Of course, the memories of the Ssi-Ruuk were still quite fresh, but they were beginning to fade.Now, Marzena was excited to look towards a brighter future. And as she glanced around the streets, it appeared that the other citizens were ready to do the same. She could see families walking together, bundled up to guard against the cold. There were smiles, laughter, and words spoken in pleasant tones. All in all, people seemed to be enjoying a day of festivities – it was nice to see. Marzena continued on her way, leaving footprints behind on the snowy sidewalk.

“Hmm, where to start?” she questioned aloud, and tapped her chin with a gloved finger.

She paused upon arriving at the center square; a calm smile touched her red-tinted lips. Perhaps it would be a good idea to get something warm to sip as she made the rounds. With a last glance around, her eyes stopped upon a small archway nearby, where a sprig of mistletoe had been hung. Her smile grew; perhaps she would have to return here with the Supreme Commander.

Marzena adjusted the hat that sat gently upon her dark waves, and continued on her way towards the bakery. She ducked inside and was instantly taken by the aroma of fresh baked goods. It would be difficult to leave the shop with a cider alone…

 

[Dunames Lopez]

Dunames was often seen flying across the galaxy on Star Tours business, but had very little occasion to shop beyond the duty-free in-flight shopping as Star Tours did it. Her old wardrobe lasted for years and she even went on several planets with it: Ziost, Gandle Ott, Dulvoyinn. Now that she was back on Dosuun after what she saw about Ewoks, and the Endor Express, she'd better hope that what is in stock can actually rival the Lipstick Express on Lipsec. But the old wardrobe was a wardrobe for a start-up spaceline company that used to sell counterfeit and fenced goods at the onset. Now no way she would sell counterfeit, fenced goods. Quaint Gardens Beauty. Some Iron Empire-based corporation that sold its wares onboard Star Tours flights. To be fair, she preferred to be in Finalizer City, but Life Day was just too big an occasion to pass up. Four or five dresses, minimum, at least one of which must be made of armorweave. And who couldn't forget about the food?

"Well, well, well, what have we here?"

"What wouldn't I do for either Pizza Hutt or TKFC?"

"This is a case of why not both" Dunames replied, while attentively looking for what would make her look fabulous.

"You will want to wear these regularly, boss. Don't buy too many"

 

[Marzena Vaas]

Marzena moved into the queue, forced to stand next to the case filled with delicate pastries. Her sweet tooth was usually quite easy to control, but at the moment she was longing for a ginger cookie. She pressed her lips together and looked away, focusing her attention on the drink menu instead. As she reached the front of the line, she ordered a hot cider and resisted the urge to add anything else. A few minutes later, she exited the bakery with a warm cup in hand. The crisp air immediately greeted her, and she took a sip of cider to ward off the cold.

The boutiques seemed to be bustling with activity, there didn’t seem to be anyone walking about without at least one shopping bag on their arm. She noticed that most seemed to be enjoying themselves, while others appeared a bit confused or even… frantic. Marzena couldn’t help but giggle; Life Day shopping could be hectic, especially if left to the last minute. However, she was a very seasoned shopper and certainly did not mind the crowds.

She pressed on, taking careful steps to avoid slipping on the snowy pavement. First, she would take a peek in Opal & Co, a stylish boutique that offered women’s clothing and accessories. Marzena was a regular there, but she had not been in recently, so she was excited to see their offerings for the winter season. Inside, the racks were lined in dark colors – black, dark grey, maroon, and emerald green. The mannequins were currently modeling luxe styles that featured elegant outerwear. It seemed that oversized scarves were on trend at the moment.

Marzena wandered over to the wall, where most of the accessories were hanging on the wall, or presented neatly on tables. Her fingers reached out to touch a cashmere scarf – a lovely knit that was very soft and chic. “This would look great on Bonnie…” She mused aloud, thinking of her Assistant. The woman did work very hard to keep Marzena happy, she deserved something nice.