Private What Becomes of the Broken Hearted

[Ala Quin]

​

The public square seemed to be in the midst of construction. It had changed a lot since she had seen it last, but most of that change had apparently happened recently. Ala had been to Naboo many years earlier. She had walked around the edge of a fountain that used to be in this public square. Used to be.

Theed had been broken twice in recent years. At least the most recent one was not as bad. Still, it was sad to see so much of the ancient architecture being repair or outright replaced. At least the Naboo government had the common sense to replace it with structures in keeping with the aesthetic already in place.

The last time she had been there she had been so different. So much younger. About half her actual age that she was now, even though she still looked to be within a few years of her teens. Though, her sorrow of heart had added a few years just in the change to her normally sunny disposition.

"Miss. You look like you need this," said a woman at a nearby stall. The market was nearly empty of patrons and vendors alike. The place was more of a construction zone.

Her glanced at the contents of the woman's outstretched hand. A golden pastry with some form of berry filling was being given to Ala. Her natural reaction was to protest, but the pastry was in her hand before she could say more than, "Oh no...I really couldn't..."

"...but thank you," she finished with an attempt to hide the soft whimper in her tone.

She walked away from the vendor and bit into the pastry. It was all at once buttery, tangy and just the right amount of sweet. Just like life, Ala mused. Though life had felt to have a bitter taste more than anything else of late.

The diminutive Master was on Naboo for a fresh start and a new mission. She was here to refocus her life and find a new purpose. She was here to find anything and everything that could distract her from the hole that Kaila Irons ' absence had left in her heart.

"Where is that envoy from the Order of Shiraya?" She muttered with mouth full of smooth pastry and berry goodness.

Lorn Reingard ​

 

[Lorn Reingard]

Ala Quin

​

The sounds of construction grated on Lorn's nerves. Another hammer blow, another whir of some repulsorlift carrying rubble… Theed was a mess, but a mess of rebuilding. He should be grateful, he knew, for the resilience of the Naboo people. But this morning? Grateful was a hard sell. He was late.

He'd been so engrossed in his structured training routine, he'd completely lost track of time. First impressions mattered, especially when dealing with Jedi, and from what little he knew, most of them put a great stock into the perception of punctuality. And this wasn't just any Jedi, this was a Master. A Master he was supposed to be showing around.

Lorn planted himself squarely in the center of the square. He pulled out his datapad, flipping through the image he'd been given of Master Quin. Young, almost startlingly so. He ran a hand through his already disheveled hair. He aged like a bantha in the sun, while some Jedi looked like they barely aged at all.

He sighed, shoving the datapad back into his pocket. Why had he agreed to this? He wasn't exactly the picture of welcoming sunshine. He was more the "stares intensely and makes people vaguely uncomfortable" type. The Order needed all the help it could get attracting new recruits, especially Jedi looking for a quieter place, but Lorn often worried his…worn appearance did more harm than good. He wasn't going to scare her away, was he?

Just as his anxiety was about to spiral, he thought he spotted her. A small figure, a bit lost-looking, and decidedly occupied with something that looked suspiciously like a pastry. He strode towards her, doing his best to project an air of calm efficiency that he definitely wasn't feeling.

"Master Quin?" he asked, offering a small, almost apologetic bow. "Lorn Reingard, Order of Shiraya." He paused, taking in the slightly dazed expression on her face. "I'm… the one who's supposed to be showing you around today?" He added, hoping he had the right person and that she was okay with him being late.

 

[Ala Quin]

​

For approximately ten seconds longer than she wanted to, Ala was chewing on her pastry. It was not at all that it was bad to the taste. Far from it, the baked creation was a marvel of culinary experience. It was just that she felt a little rude speaking with her mouth full of food. It was not a great first impression.

So, she pointed at her mouth as she chewed frenetically. She offered a wave of greeting and an eye roll to indicate that she was annoyed by how long it was taking. Finally, Ala swallowed her mouthful and smiled.

Chunks of berry jam and their pesky seeds filled the small gaps between her teeth. Even as she spoke, and her lips moved across her teeth, Ala felt that she was in the midst of embarrassing herself thoroughly. "Ah! You...made...it," she said with an increasing stammer as the current reality of her dental hygiene set in.

Her hand was quickly over her mouth. "I am so sorry," she said, blushing deeply, "this pastry is to die for...I mean...I wouldn't kill or be killed for it...but it is so good..."

"Lorn, did you say?" She blurted in a quick attempt to get herself back on the rails of professionalism.

"Yes, I am Master Ala Quin. Though the Master bit might make you think I was something that I am not," she said in a blur of words while waving her half eaten pastry about.

"Ya want some?" She said, offering Lorn some of the pastry, "no, of course you don't."

She took another bite. A muffled attempt to speak saw her shoulder's slump in defeat. She chewed quickly and squirrelled a chunk away in her cheek so she could speak while covering her mouth. "Let's get this tour started shall we?" She said, whilst spinning about on her heels and walking in any direction.

Lorn Reingard​

 

[Lorn Reingard]

Ala Quin

​

Lorn stood a little straighter, his worn tunic suddenly feeling too tight under the Naboo sun. The woman, Master… whoever she was, seemed to be in a battle of her own with this pastry. He shifted his weight, hoping to Shiraya this was the right person. It would be just his luck to stumble on some local instead of the Master he was looking for.

Finally, she swallowed, her smile bright and, Lorn had to admit, rather charming. But his eyes betrayed him, darting to the jam in between her teeth. He mentally groaned. First impressions were important, and he was currently failing spectacularly.

She seemed oblivious, or perhaps simply kind enough to ignore his blatant staring. She continued to talk, a flurry of words that washed over him. He opened his mouth to confirm his identity, a simple "I am Lorn." ready on his tongue. But she barreled on, a whirlwind of enthusiasm.

Then came the pastry. Waved in the air like a conductor's baton, she offered it, then snatched it back with an apologetic, "no, of course you don't." Lorn blinked, his hand still halfway extended. This woman was a force of nature.

Another bite, another burst of words, and suddenly she was off, launching into what Lorn could only assume was his tour. He paused, momentarily stunned, glancing around as if expecting Aiden or Lysander to be watching. Was he being pranked?

He quickly caught up, falling into step beside her. "Uhm… most visitors want to start with the Royal Palace?" he ventured, hoping to gently steer the conversation, and the tour, in a more conventional direction. He had a feeling this was going to be more of him following her than him guiding her around.

He seized a brief lull during the pastry consumption to ask, "What brings you to Naboo, Master Quin? Are you considering joining the Shirayan Order?" He couldn't help but feel a flicker of hope. Their sanctuary, nestled in the Gallo Mountains, was a peaceful haven. They were a small community, but fiercely dedicated, and the addition of another Master, especially one with such… unique energy, would be a boon. He'd always been eager to learn from the wisdom of Master Kahne, and was eager to expand on the wisdom of another.

 

[Ala Quin]

​

Wide-eyed and with a mouthful of the last bite of pastry, Ala flicked Lorn a glance. "They have a palace?" She said, clearly excited, "and we get to see it?" Her words were again muffled by the last of the pastry, but Ala figured the damage to her manners was already done. And when there were palace viewings on offer, one did not care for decorum.

She dusted off her hands just as her face lit up with realisation again. A few-finger-points-to-the-air later, Ala swallowed the last of the pastry. "Naboo is a monarchy...which means a Queen...or a King? Or do you only do one of those? And of course you would have a palace," she said with a tap to the side of her head, "silly me."

Ala rolled her eyes and looked away from Lorn while mouthing the word, "Aaaanyway."

Why did she feel so entirely flustered? A good reputation would only get her so far. She was certainly not living up to it, and she was probably doing some damage to her brother's reputation at the same time. Ala stood up straight, to her full imposing height, and glanced back up to Lorn with an apologetic smile.

"I have always loved Naboo. And. I am in need of a fresh start. So yes. I am very hopeful of being accepted in the Order. Though. I do not think I am making a good first impression. And I am not particularly skilled in any of the core Jedi skills..."

She who had stood in the hallway of a crashing starship and warded off hoards of Bryn'adul. She who had defeated a berserk Bryn'adul draelvasier, and survived the aforementioned ship crash. She was 'not particularly skilled'. Indeed, she was not save in one key aspect that had seen her train some of her previous order's most unruly students. Ala Quin was known mostly for her indomitable spirit. Recovering from what the Bryn invasions had done to her spirit had been the catalyst to her promotion to Master.

"...hopefully...I have something to offer someone." She said, calmer and more assured, but with the typical Ala Quin style sweet, deference that always downplayed her strengths.

Lorn Reingard​

 

[Lorn Reingard]

Ala Quin

​

Lorn couldn't help the small smile that tugged at his lips as he watched Master Quin's wide-eyed wonder at the concept of a palace. It was… endearing. He'd spent his childhood here so the Palace seemed normal, the simple joy she exuded was refreshing.

He cocked his head, listening as she practically narrated her own thought process, a habit so different from his own carefully measured words.

"Yes, a Queen." he confirmed gently. "The Palace is beautiful. There's a tower there that we might get a good look at the city from, if you'd like." His voice was soft, almost hesitant, still trying to find the right tone.

He walked beside her as they continued through the street, forcing himself to look straight ahead, attempting to project an air of calm. But a flicker of movement caught his eye, and he glanced back down to see her standing straighter, almost mimicking his posture. A blush crept up his neck. Was he trying too hard? Was she making fun of him? He shook his head slightly. Of course, she could probably see right through him. Masters were perceptive, weren't they?

He cleared his throat. "Naboo is a good place for a fresh start." he admitted quietly, the Palace now coming into view. "I might be the poster child for a complete fresh start here." He trailed off, remembering her comment about not making a good first impression. She thought she wasn't making a good impression? He was practically a nervous wreck.

"Uhm... yeah. Don't worry about the core Jedi Skills... I've uhm... never been that skilled in the fundamentals of being a Jedi either... They still accept me for who I am." He hoped his words sounded reassuring, not clumsy.

He finally took a moment to really look at her, now that the pastry was gone. Her eyes were bright, full of a kind of nervous energy that somehow felt… comforting. "I'm sure you have plenty to offer someo... the Order!" he corrected himself quickly, mentally slapping himself.

Try not to scare her away, Lorn. Just try to be normal.

He picked up the pace slightly as they approached the steps of the Palace, trying to regain some semblance of composure. He reached the top and paused, looking back at Master Quin. "Uhm, the Jewel of Naboo... as they call it." They? Who even said that?

He swallowed. "Queen Kalantha is our monarch… a bright young woman. I've had the privilege of seeing her work from afar, she is a wonderful leader. And her people love her." He recited the usual spiel, feeling a little foolish.

As they stepped inside, surrounded by beautiful paintings and sculptures, Lorn gestured towards the stairs leading to the tower. "This way, Master Quin." He hoped, more than anything, that he wasn't completely botching this.

 

[Ala Quin]

​

This Lorn guy really was doing a great job. He was so patient with her nervous rambling self. Whoever had sent him to greet her had known exactly what they were doing, and what she needed. His was a reassuringly calm presence. Though, when Ala finally opened her mind up a little more she got a very different impression from him.

Anxiety? Why?

Oh. It was her. She was too much. Her brow furrowed and lips pursed. She kept her face in an expression something akin to a rebuked loth-cat, despite the possibility of going up the tower which really did sound lovely.

"Ah. A Queen. I am sure she is lovely. Naboo has a strong tradition for lovely leaders...well...except that one that took over the entire galaxy...not a Queen...but you know," she said. Her mouth was open to continue the torrent of words but instead she puckered her lips and turned in the direction that her guide was leading her. She had thought it impossible to feel any smaller next to the giant that was leading her, but her continued immaturity managed to make her shrink inside.

She was so distracted with her own self-chastisement that she missed some of what Lorn said about fresh starts. "OH. You did advertising as a child? Like as a child model? Why did you stop?" Ala said, "You could still..."

He mind tuned out again as she told herself off for being so forward. It was a sincere compliment, not anything more. She did not have the energy for more than a compliment. A sudden wave of sadness washed over her as her mind returned to thoughts of a certain Sith. Her aura entirely changed at about the point that Lorn corrected himself in his statement about having something to offer.

"Oh. Yes. I am sure I will. Every Order needs a janitor, right?" She said with a half-hearted smile, and a laugh that could not fool anyone.

Emotional whiplash. Get yourself together, Ala.

And then she entered the palace. As she did, her eyes widened. Her mouth fell open in awe. One hand came up to cover her mouth as she muttered a simple, "Oh my."

Her feet moved with a mind of her own as she nigh on floated over to a painting that was as tall some some of the buildings she had seen in Theed. It was a depiction of the idyllic Naboo Lake Country. She didn't know much about art, except when it was beautiful.

A spin and a flourish of her hands saw her run with a subtle skip to another painting, this one smaller and portrait of a very serious looking Queen. "Queen...Kalantha...oh, this is her. She is very pretty," Ala said with a glance over her shoulder towards Lorn, "I imagine she had all manner of foreign born suitors, huh?"

It clicked moments later that Lorn was trying to direct her to the tower. It irked her somewhat to be pulled away from the beauty of the palace's interior, just to climb a tower. But she would soon know a lot about Lorn just based on whether he was right about it being worth the effort.

"Lead the way, Mister Lorn!" She said with a shooing motion of her hands. Moments later she was at the tall man's side once again. "Naboo really is one of the wonders of the galaxy...and this is rightly called the Jewel. Whoever named that knew what they were talking about."

She assumed that the trek up the tower would take some time. Also, she knew it was not in her best interest to keep talking. If anything, Lorn could save her extra embarrassment by talking over her whenever she deemed it necessary to open her mouth. "So. Mister Lorn," she said with a pop of her lips while she thought of a question, "got a padawan?"

Lorn Reingard​

 

[Lorn Reingard]

Ala Quin

​

Lorn stopped at the base of the winding staircase. "A child model?" He mumbled under his breath, a flicker of confusion crossing his face. He ran a hand through his hair. Where did she get that idea? He'd been so focused on trying to appear... not boring, that he'd missed half of what she said, apparently.

He glanced back at her, her gaze fixed on the towering palace interior, a subtle sadness tugging at the corners of her mouth. He replayed their earlier exchange in his mind. "You have plenty to offer." Had that sounded…presumptuous? He was terrible at this. They needed someone charismatic, someone who could inspire confidence, not a quiet, battle-worn Jedi Knight who probably looked like he'd rather be anywhere else. They needed someone like her for this.

She looked almost…annoyed when he tried to pull her away. He hesitated, one foot on the first step. Had he made the wrong decision to bypass all of the curated wonder in the palace? He was frozen in place, unsure if he should direct the tour back towards the interior or go up. Before he could make up his mind, she was practically shooing him up the stairs.

A sigh escaped his lips before he could stop it, a testament to the sheer frustration swirling within him. He'd even managed to insult the magnificent interior by ignoring it. Great.

His palms were slick with sweat. Get a grip, Lorn. He took a deep breath and began the slow climb, her presence a palpable weight beside him. Each step was a fresh wave of self-criticism. He was probably ruining this tour for her, he could see it in her eyes, the way her smile fell off once she remembered he was here.

He knew she was far too nice, no matter how awkward he was. After this he was going to be demoted to scrubing toilets like she had said, every order needs a janitor right? They could be scrubbing toilets together, that would be amusing. The thought brought a ghost of a smile to his lips, quickly banished by the realization that she was speaking and he wasn't responding like an idiot.

"No… no Padawan." He mumbled, the smile vanishing completely. "I'm sure I would ruin anyone I took on." The words felt heavy, laden with a truth he couldn't deny. It wasn't a lack of skill or knowledge, but a deep-seated fear. He was cursed, he truly believed it. Everyone he'd ever cared about, everyone he'd let get close, had been taken from him.

His childhood love, Virginia, taken and turned against him. His Master, Soloman, he was forced to fight to the death. All of his friends and adopted family, taken from him in cruel and unimaginable ways. Each loss had chipped away at him, leaving behind a residue of guilt and the agonizing certainty that he was a harbinger of misfortune.

Why subject a bright, promising young Padawan to that? It would be kinder to let them find a Master who wasn't…damaged.

"I'm sorry." he choked out, mortified that he'd let his thoughts spill into the conversation. He forced a lighter tone. "Uhm… what about you? Surely a well-traveled Master like you has a Padawan lurking around?"

His legs burned with exertion, each step a reminder of his earlier training session. But the view… the view would make it worth it. He hoped.

He pictured it in his mind: the panoramic vista of Theed stretching out before them, the towering domed buildings in the sunlight, the endless flow of Nabooians in the streets. Up here, above the din of the city, the wind would whisper through her hair, and the sun would warm her skin. It was a place of peace, a place where the Force felt vibrant and alive. He had to get her there. He wanted to show her that, he needed to. For some reason.

 

[Ala Quin]

​

Her frown deepened at Lorn's self-deprecation. She didn't say anything for a moment, but just let the conversation linger with his words the last to hang in the air. Ala could feel the hope of this new place renewing her already, and it played out as energy rippling through as she easily bounded up the stairs.

That was what the Force was for. Making difficult things easier!

Lips parted to kindly reprimand Lorn for his lack of self-belief, but Lorn had deemed it time to fill the air with a question of his own. But the way he phrased it gave her serious pause. Well travelled. Her hand not-so-casually brushed across her forehead, noting the deep depressions of her frown. She ran a finger across the corner of her eyes where she expected to find crows feet.

Did she look that old? Or did she just look tired and worn out? Maybe her clothes were dirty? Had she missed something in her laundry this week?

"I do not have any Padawan currently, but several that have gone on to become Knight's in their own right," she said. Though her tone seemed to indicate she was thinking of something else.

"And...my last one...died hundreds of years ago...not that I am hundreds of years old," she said, eyes growing wide with the potential misunderstanding of her words, "its a long story. But if you know Caltin Vanagor , you already know most of it."

She glanced at Lorn to gauge his level of confusion. To her dismay, he looked like he was suffering. Was she truly that bad as company? Perhaps the break up with Kaila Irons had really changed her in ways that not even the Bryn'adul could.

To her complete and utter relief, they had reached the top of the tower. Though there had been ample awkward silent moments to endure whilst achieving this minor victory. The moment she set foot on the top step the vista opened before her. Ala's face opened up to to its grandeur, eyes widening and smile creasing her lips.

"Oh...Lorn...it is..."

Light steps took her to the balustrade in a moment was she leaned her small frame out over the edge. The wind picked up the curly mess of hair and tousled it about wildly, though she seemed not to mind. She was looking out over the cliffs edge of the Royal Palace, into the countryside of Naboo and its rolling idyllic hills, lakes and streams. It was perfection as far as the eyes could see.

The tiny Jedi turned around, the wind sweeping her mess of hair across her face. She promptly pushed it behind her elven ears as she nigh on skipped to the other side of the look out. There she saw the city of Theed in all its ancient, yet new, glory. Despite the beauty, her heart sunk for the number of construction sites that she noted. Evidence of recent destruction, even some larger ornate buildings that were still being rebuilt since the initial Cataclysm.

Her hand moved instinctively to rest just the ends of her fingers on the side of Lorn's nearby hand. "This is a place...I could call home," she glanced up at her tour guide, "something I could do more than fight for...I could live for this place."

Lorn Reingard ​

 

[Lorn Reingard]

Ala Quin

​

Lorn winced inwardly. Chit. He had phrased that all wrong. Experienced, that was the word he should have used, not 'well-travelled'. How foolish of him. He internally chastised himself as he watched Ala, noticing the slight furrow in her brow, the way she seemed bothered by his clumsy choice of words. Surely she knew how she looked? She looked very...

Lorn shook his head, more to himself than anything, needing to refocus, to be professional. It was hard to concentrate though with her explanation of her last Padawan passing over a hundred years ago! How old was this Master? He knew of Caltin, had seen him in battle at one point, but filed the question away, resolving to ask him the next time their paths crossed just how well he knew Ala. Maybe then, maybe then, he could even consider asking her a question about her age. Right now, he wouldn't dare, he had already made himself a fool.

As they finally made their way to the top, he stepped back, letting her take the lead, to get the first, unobstructed view. A cheeky smile played on his lips as he watched her face for the reaction, the way her eyes widened as she took it all in, leaning over the edge. He was genuinely happy he could share this with her, it seemed like it was at least helping to make up for his earlier blunders.

The wind whipped around them both, sending his hair into a bit of a mess. But as he pushed his brown locks, he noticed her uniquely pointy ears, a subtle detail that somehow made her all the more endearing.

He followed her around the tower as she took in the sights of rebuilding Naboo, carefully avoiding overstepping her 'personal space', but subtly keeping her near. He looked out, trying to find some landmarks to point out to her, but everything below felt so…transitional. Everything looked different than the last time he had been here, too much construction, too much rebuilding.

Then his breath caught when her hand brushed up against his, stopping his search for a landmark in its tracks. Lorn stood almost statue still as his fingers almost instinctively twitched next to hers. Lorn could feel the Force flowing through her, a wild, untamed energy that resonated within him. The touch lingered for a moment or two longer before Lorn shook himself out of it again. Be professional, don't scare her away, don't be so awkward.

Clearing his throat, and hoping his cheeks weren't visibly flushed, he finally responded, trying to match her earnestness. "I felt the same when I came back, looking out at everything from up here." Lorn looked down at her, a genuine smile gracing his lips. "It's truly a second chance at life. A chance to truly live. To find what I've always been looking for… I hope you can as well too." He met her gaze, offering a soft, encouraging smile.

 

[Ala Quin]

​

She was so lost in the moment that she did not really consider nor notice Lorn's reactions to anything she did. Besides, the wind was so strong that it was making her eyes water and she could barely see. Ala glanced up to Lorn with tears streaming down her face. A face that was stretched by the broadest smile a tiny face like hers could muster.

"I am sure I will find everything I need," she said, the wind picking up her words and blowing them away.

Her hand left Lorn's and both went to pull back her hair. Once in a bunch, she took a tie out of her pocket and quickly pulled it Ove her hair to keep it out of her face. "It is really windy up here today!" She said, yelling to be heard, "maybe we should continue this tour downstairs!"

She tugged at his shirt and pointed towards the stairs, just in case he didn't get the idea. And to drive the point home, she started walking that way. Part way to the stairs she turned back, eyes flicking up to Lorn with a warm smile. She noted his eye tracking, and felt a sudden awkward flush on her cheeks. "Come on! There is so much for you to show me."

With a quick heel turn she was headed down the stairs. Her heart raced. The way Lorn was looking at her. She seemed to have the effect on people, but she didn't mean to, nor necessarily want to. Should she have acted more stoic? Did she know how to do that? Should she not have touched him? Was she being to familiar? She was just being herself! Was that so bad?

Look at what it did to Kaila.

Ala's heart sunk. Lorn was not interested in her. He was just being nice. He was probably confused by her manic energy. When Lorn were to catch up with Ala he would meet a significantly more restrained version of herself. Despite that, her edges of her self-control were constantly fraying. As she walked to admire each of the pieces of art downstairs, she would occasionally skip, but then stomp her feet like she was telling her levity off.

A few deep breathes were taken before she finally deemed it necessary to talk to Lorn again. "I do not think I will be taking any Padawan. Not yet. My desire is to help the hurting. And Naboo seems like the place to be," she said, though wondered for a moment if Lorn was hurting too. She seemed to notice it in his eyes. But she would not ask.

"Tell me of the nearby systems. Were the equally affected by the Netherworld tears? Do they need help?" Ala said, with hands now behind her back to keep them under control.

Lorn Reingard​

 

[Lorn Reingard]

Ala Quin

​

The sight of tears welling in her eyes sent a jolt of panic through Lorn. Oh, kriff. He was completely unprepared for this. The wind howled around them, stealing her words and leaving him deaf to her distress. He searched her face, a knot forming in his stomach. She was trying to tell him something, he could see her lips moving, but he was hopeless at lip-reading. He was utterly, frustratingly lost.

Then she grabbed his shirt, her knuckles white against the fabric. Lorn froze, unsure what was happening. When she began to move, he instinctively followed, assuming this part of the tour was over. The confirmation came when they reached the stairs and he could finally hear her voice again, though it lacked the warmth from before.

She practically fled down the stairs, leaving him with the distinct impression she wanted this ordeal over, and fast. Lorn's own desire to vanish spiked. He wanted nothing more than to retreat to the familiar comfort of Shiraya's Rest and lose himself in training. This was mortifying. He was clearly not cut out for this sort of thing.

By the time he reached the bottom, she was already studying the artwork, her posture more rigid, more guarded than before. Yet, even with this new tension, he could still sense her underlying energy, a strange juxtaposition that left him unsure how to proceed. He kept his distance, letting her lead.

Finally, she broke the silence. "They're a lot of people hurting here and in the Southern Systems. So you are in the right place."

The words felt rehearsed, clunky even as they tumbled out of his mouth. He winced inwardly, trying to regain his composure and refocus on the purpose of the tour. He turned his attention to the piece she was now observing. "I'm not sure." he admitted, silently cursing himself for not doing more research on the Netherworld tears before arriving. "I know it's been hard here in Theed. We do what we can."

He started walking towards the Throne Room, giving her room to breathe and continue her examination of the art. "But as the Republic grows, I'm sure we will find out how it all played out in the neighboring systems. I'm sure the Order could find plenty of humanitarian efforts for you to head up." he added, a little too quickly, stuffing his hands behind his back as if to keep them from fidgeting.

He reached the end of the hallway, stopping short when he saw the two guards flanking the entrance to the Throne Room. He glanced at them, then turned back to her, realizing they might not be granted access. "Uhm, this is the ceremonial chamber the Queen uses." he offered, stepping aside to allow her a glimpse inside. He hoped he sounded at least vaguely knowledgeable. The whole situation was making him sweat.

Lorn turned, already moving down the hallway after a few moments, a silent assumption that Ala was close behind. He scrubbed a hand over the back of his neck, a gesture of awkwardness. "I'm sorry." he mumbled, his voice tinged with a quiet regret. "First impressions aren't exactly my forte... or, well, any of this, really. Once we reach the Sanctuary, if you'd rather someone else finish the tour, I completely understand. No offense taken, I promise."

 

[Ala Quin]

​

"Then maybe I can find my place in helping nearby systems," Ala said, more as a matter of conversation than anything else. Once a part of the Order of Shiraya she would be given jobs to do. Well, she assumed that is how it would work. Instead of the relative freedom she had enjoyed, they would assign her missions. This is how Lorn seemed to work in their system. Ala just hoped that she would like her missions more than he seemed to like his current one.

She followed along, hands still clasped behind her back, and listened not just to Lorn but to the sound of those that filled the palace. It was a hive of activity. Much of Naboo's politics flowed through this building, and they had to step their way around many folk who were about their business.

Ala heard something about a ceremonial chamber. She had been momentarily distracted by a group of delegates from Enarc. At least, she thought they had said Enarc. She returned her attention to Lorn, and looked inside the resplendent chamber. Her eyes grew wide as they had previously done, but then she immediately dampened her enthusiasm. "A very beautiful room," she said with a little nod. She cleared her throat and offered a closed-lipped smile.

A frown creased her forehead again. Something was wrong with Lorn, seriously. He seemed so nervous, and even glistened a little with sweat. Her heart sunk. She had really been too much hadn't she? Had he thought she was flirting? Was he married? Her eyes looked at his hand and noted no ring. That didn't mean anything though. Perhaps he didn't wear one, or was just in a close relationship.

Or maybe it was something else entirely. Or maybe she was spot on. Her breathing grew heavier just as she was about to ask what was wrong. Lorn spoke up. Ala blinked several times.

Wait. She sensed honesty. It wasn't like he was trying not to offend her. "Oh, Mister Lorn," she said as her face softened into compassion, "oh my."

She reached out instinctively and took him by the hand. Her eyes sought his, bobbing about to pull in his gaze. What meet his gaze was unadulterated kindness. "I think we may have been so lost in our own heads that we have not been connecting properly," Ala said in a soft, calming tone.

They needed to start again. If he would let her.

"Hi. My name is Ala."

Lorn Reingard ​

 

[Lorn Reingard]

Ala Quin

​

Lorn halted mid-stride as she finally broke the silence. He'd been anticipating this moment, bracing for her to suggest he hand over the tour to someone else. He knew, deep down, it was probably for the best, but the thought stung his pride. He closed his eyes, inhaling sharply, preparing himself for the inevitable blow.

But the words never came. Instead, he felt her hand slip into his again. His eyes snapped open, meeting her gaze. A wave of confusion washed over him. Were they truly on completely different planes? Relief eased some of the tension in his chest. A fresh start. If she was offering it, he'd seize the chance with both hands.

"Lorn." he said, a genuine smile finally gracing his lips as he gently released her hand.

He turned and resumed walking, matching her pace as they continued down the hallway. He allowed her to linger at each piece of art, giving her time to appreciate the details before they slowly made their way towards the hangar. "I owe you an apology though." he admitted, his smile softening. "My lateness threw me off, and I let it get to me. It had absolutely nothing to do with you. You're actually... delightful company. I'm honestly surprised you've tolerated me this long." A small chuckle escaped his lips, laced with self-deprecating humor.

He paused, a hint of vulnerability in his voice. "The truth is, I'm terrible with first impressions. It takes me a while to warm up... I don't... I don't let people in easily."

They rounded a corner, revealing a small statue of Shiraya perched on a pedestal. He stopped, gazing up at the figure, a thoughtful expression on his face. "So, in the spirit of starting over, maybe you could tell me a bit about yourself? I'd really love to hear all about you." The genuine curiosity in his voice was palpable.

 

[Ala Quin]

​

She looked at him as one would a lost puppy. Her mind now ran through numerous scenarios of how he may have been so as to not be willing to open up. And the stuff he said about first impressions, well. "You did fine. You are too hard on yourself, Mister Lorn." Her smile was soft, sweet and now just for his benefit rather than her own reputation.

"To be honest, I was so lost in my own thoughts. I do not think that I was a great...guidee? Is that the word for it?" She said with an added shrug to show she didn't care to know the answer, so long as he got the point.

The art was truly amazing, and Ala had been enthralled by all the depictions of historical moments in Naboo's history. The small statue of the goddess Shiraya seemed to attract Lorn's attention. Ala examined it closely, crouching slightly - though she didn't need too. She honestly didn't see what all the fuss was about. Why name everything after this lady holding a crescent moon shape?

"About me?" She said. Her eye brows raised with her gaze. She did hope that 'love' was just a exaggeration, she would assume so.

"I died three times before I was 20," she said as she stood up to full imposing shortness, "that was a long time ago. I was a part of an order of Jedi known as the Students of the Light, in the Yavin system. The cold moon. It was really cold. That is where I met Caltin Vanagor and kind of adopted him as my brother. He has saved my life more times than I can count. He really deserves a medal..."

She looked back at the statue in contemplation.

"...without him I probably would have died a dozen times." She tried to laugh about it, but a sullenness washed over her.

"This body I have now is actually a clone of my original body. I was united with if over 800 years ago...before being captured and held in a cryopod. Said cryopod was the only ship system that survived, and the ship was adrift for centuries...until I was discovered. Since then. Well. There are stories to tell even more. But maybe another day."

There was nothing presumptuous about her assumption that she would see Lorn again. It was just a way to avoid talking about Aliya, the Bryn'adul and Kaila. "So yeah. My body is aged somewhere in my 20s...my consciousness in my mid 30s...makes birthdays very confusing."

Lorn Reingard​

 

[Lorn Reingard]

Ala Quin

​

Lorn listened, completely mesmerized, as Ala spoke. He'd braced himself for a polite summary, a quick sentence or two about her history or homeworld. What he got was a life story ripped straight from the most outlandish holodrama. Died three times? Cloned? Eight hundred years?! He struggled to wrap his head around it, to reconcile the woman standing before him with the unbelievable tales she was weaving.

The initial confusion gave way to a profound sense of wonder, tinged with a healthy dose of sheer bewilderment.

"Wow," he finally managed, the word feeling utterly inadequate even to his own ears. "Okay. That's...uhm... Yeah, I bet birthdays are kind of a nightmare." He chuckled, trying to lighten the mood. "Caltin's son, Connel, trains with the Vanguard sometimes. Maybe you two could connect while you're here? He probably would be a better guide." Lorn laughed at himself.

He glanced back at the serene, eternally youthful face of the Shiraya statue. It offered no answers, only a silent, almost mocking serenity. Great, even the Shiraya is judging me.

Lorn stepped around the statue, moving further down the hall, glancing back to see if Ala was following. She still seemed hesitant, like she wasn't entirely comfortable sharing her past. Was it their awkward start? Or perhaps because he hadn't offered anything in return? This vulnerability thing was harder than he thought. Any piece of information he could offer would probably be a complete downer. Why ruin the tour even more?

He kept walking until they passed a set of windows overlooking the city. "My life is... considerably less remarkable." Lorn admitted with a self-deprecating smile.

"My mother and sisters live here...right down there." he said, gesturing vaguely towards the cityscape. "I spent my whole childhood running wild in that courtyard." He smiled, a genuine smile this time, remembering endless summer nights playing games with his friends. "Sometimes, I wish I'd never left. Just stayed right there. Maybe I'd be a different person, you know?" He wasn't sure if he was even making sense, but it was something, anything, to offer her.

He shook his head slightly as they paused near the window, an office behind them with a guard stationed outside. "My father used to be a palace guard. He was posted right there," he pointed at the guard, "keeping an eye on all us kids, making sure we didn't cause too much trouble." He smiled at the guard, who returned a simple nod. "He's the one who first took me up to that tower... showed me the whole city." Lorn closed his eyes for a second, picturing long conversations with his father during his breaks, the city lights twinkling below.

"Sorry. Rambling. Again," Lorn said, flashing a sheepish smile. "Anyways..."

 

[Ala Quin]

​

"Connel seems like a good young man," Ala said with a cautious nod. She wished she knew her nephew better. The galaxy was a big place, and there was a lot to do for anyone seeking to do good.

Ala did indeed follow Lorn as he left the statue behind. She did glance back in wonder at it though. What was the actual Shiraya like that it had inspired such devotion even until now. Ala dismissed the thought for the time being, and continued on her way.

"Oh!" Ala said, her exuberance bursting free again, "your family are here! How lovely! It would be amazing to meet them sometime. Given how nice you are, I am sure they are wonderful."

She instinctively nudged Lorn with her shoulder. "Don't play down your story, Lorn. That sort of self-deprecation doesn't look good on you," she said with a soft smile. He was being too hard on himself. So, she had a history? It wasn't one anyone wanted!

She bounced along in her own happy way as she listened to Lorn give details of his life. She soaked it all in eagerly and would have asked questions, but again Lorn did that thing he did. "Lorn. I have to say. If we are going to be friends, you are going to have to get used to not apologising to me," she said. Her eyebrows lifted in this defiant-yet-playful sort of way.

"I will have to get going in just a moment. But this conversation is not over, Mister Lorn," she said. A flutter of nerves filled her stomach for a moment but she depressed those emotions quickly. Still, it caused her to sway a little side to side. "As a Master...and soon to be of your very Order...I will insist on learning more of your history on Naboo. I simply must know my subordinates in order to help them the best...maybe...a milkshake...or something?"

Lorn Reingard​

 

[Lorn Reingard]

Ala Quin

​

Lorn felt a warmth spread through him as Ala's exuberance filled the space. "They are." he confirmed, a slight smile playing on his lips. The thought of his sisters meeting Ala actually brought a chuckle, they might be able to match her energy.. "I'm supposed to have dinner with them shortly." he added, a quick glance at his chrono reminding him of his potential tardiness. "If you're ever in need of a friend in the city, I'm sure my sisters would love to have you over. They, uh, they're good at making people feel welcome." He hoped he wasn't overselling it, but he genuinely believed it.

He shuffled along beside her as she gently scolded him for downplaying his story. She's right, isn't she? Why do I do that? He pondered the question, his gaze fixed on the durasteel floor. Maybe it was habit, a self-defense mechanism to avoid boring people or, worse, burdening them with his past. Maybe, deep down, he didn't think his story was worth telling. Ala seemed to think otherwise, and the realization warmed him from the inside out.

"I will try my best not to then... Miss Quin." he replied, forcing himself to sound a little less...Lorn. He wanted to meet her halfway, to show he was trying.

They reached the hangar entrance, and he handled the shuttle details with the attendant efficiently. As he led Ala towards the boarding ramp, he offered her a hand to help her step inside.

"A milkshake?" he questioned, a playful cock of his eyebrow mirroring her own earlier defiance. The idea was interesting. "I will do my best to open up a bit more… over some milkshakes." he said, a genuine smile finally breaking through.

As the doors began to close on the shuttle, Lorn straightened his posture, the remnants of a professional mask slipping back into place. "I do hope you enjoy the Sanctuary. Let me know if there is anything you ever need." he said, the programmed words sounding a little hollow even to his own ears.

He watched as the shuttle lifted off, hoping she would choose to stay and help the Order, but it was out of his hands now.