Here's a new one.
This is the longest I've written for a chapter, even my GOT fic cannot compare 0-0 all for the sake of our love birds :) but I want to take their relationship to another level. So here goes.
Din watched the flames of the forge dance around his blade as the Armorer used her hammer and pounded on it with a mighty clang, echoing the entire room.
The rhythmic hum of the forge was punctuated by the occasional sharp clang as the Armorer worked on Din's weapon, her focus intently on the blade she was polishing. The dimly lit room was filled with the glow of the fire, casting a warm hue over the beskar scattered around.
Din Djarin stood a little apart, the ambient light reflecting subtly off his armour, his posture straight but with a hint of hesitation. The anticipation of his blades being renewed was overshadowed by the weight of the question he had been wondering.
Caring for Bo as a woman could prove a little complicated. His relationship with her hasn't gone unnoticed by many, he had heard whispers of his status amongst everyone, especially the Children of the Watch.
They all knew he was only a foundling.
And they are right. What can a foundling offer to the leader of Mandalore? The one with royal blood?
As if sensing his internal struggle, the Armorer broke the silence without lifting her gaze from the blade. "Your mind seems distant, Din Djarin," she noted, startling him from his train of thoughts, "What burdens you?"
Of course, she would notice, he thought. Nothing seemed to escape her, even when he took his helmet off. She always seems to know.
"It's nothing," He murmured lamely.
"If it weren't, you wouldn't be sighing several times by now, Din Djarin" she noted.
Had he been doing that for a while that she noticed what was bothering him?
"Best you speak now, Din Djarin. Or your thoughts will only cloud your judgement much longer," she told him.
Having spent time with the Armorer since he was first taken in, he learned from the Armorer that there is no escaping from her notice. Taking a deep breath, Din found his voice, "I'd like to know about our ways, specifically... about the rite of union of clans." There, he finally said it. Even that word weighs several beskar.
"Of marriage?"
He gulped, "Something like that. But I don't want to jump into that yet."
Setting aside his blade and lifting her helmeted gaze to meet his, the Armorer replied, "Marriage, among the Mandalorians, is not a mere union of two souls but a merging of legacies, of honour, and creed." she said it anyway despite Din telling her otherwise, he sighed and let her roll with it, "It's a commitment, bound by vows spoken before the Mandalorian sigil. The couple exchanges their vows to stand beside each other, protect, honour, and fight as one. I'm certain you know the words."
He nodded anyway, "I do." He had fought together with Bo since she pulled him out of the Living Waters all those cycles ago, they have had each other's back ever since then.
"Of course, that is the way of Children of the Watch," She added, "I can't say the same for the Nite Owls, but I'm certain she would follow our traditions anyway. After all, she walks both worlds."
He cringed, has their relationship been that obvious? He had seen people staring at them when they were together, but it shouldn't mean anything, right?
"Come now, you do not have to hide your feelings from me. Most people thought you both were ridur when you first brought her into our covert. I find it odd that you haven't said anything to our leader yet after we retook Mandalore."
In all of Din's life, he had never been interested in a relationship. He had always been a loner, confining to himself, and asking little to no help lest necessary. But for some reason, since the kid crashed into his life, a lot of things changed. He found himself surrounded by loyal friends, people he could trust…
And apparently, someone he is fond of for quite a while.
He had been used to keeping his emotions to himself, the idea of being with someone sounded quite foreign to him too. He's entering new territories when it comes to Bo.
But this is Bo, someone he has grown to care for quite a while now. The idea that she might end up with someone else irritates him.
Then again, Bo has a duty for Mandalore, she has a far more important role, and he can't bug her over some feelings.
Or so he thought.
He shook his head, not wanting to recall the terror when he saw her face on the bounty holo. "I'm only a foundling. She's our Mand'alor."
"I don't see how this is a problem," the Armorer noted. "I don't think Lady Kryze minds either."
"Others will talk," he said.
"I don't believe the opinions of others concern you or her, do you?" she asked him.
"No, but I want what's best for her too," Bo had her fair share of demons she had to deal with, another gossip from the clan must not add to the weight of her pressure to rule.
"You are the Children of the Watch, she is of the Nite Owls," she said, "Indeed, this would be a fitting arrangement for all concerns."
"How so?" Din is still in denial, believing that he's unworthy of a high royalty like Bo-Katan Kryze.
"Most of the Children of the Watch have silently voted you to be our representative, to which I do not object. After all, you and Bo-Katan went to Mandalore first before we retook it. Many of us respect you for that bravery."
"I was just there to redeem myself," he countered.
"Nonetheless, our people need a solid foundation and proof that the Children of the Watch and the Nite Owls can come together and co-exist peacefully. And you both have proven that it is possible, time and time again."
Din shifted uncomfortably, knowing where this was heading, and he was not sure he was ready to approach the subject. Not because he doesn't want it to happen, but mostly because he still felt undeserving. "I…I'm not sure that that would still be enough to offer. I can only give her my loyalty and prove my worth."
"Then that shall be your gift to her," she answered, "Or perhaps it was already given to her since the day you brought her in, and ever since then, as you travelled by her side, you proved who you are to her. A loyal and honourable partner. Are you not?"
Din tilted his head in confusion, not understanding where this was coming from.
The Armorer steadily walked towards him, "Being a Mandalorian isn't solely about the armour we wear or the lineage we hail from. It's about the heart beneath the beskar, the convictions we uphold, and the battles we choose. And I believe Lady Kryze understood this."
Din's helmeted head dipped, still considering her words.
The Armorer reached out, placing a reassuring hand on his pauldron. "Your worth isn't determined by your past or blood, but by your actions and intentions. Love, trust, and understanding aren't bound by titles or heritage. They're bound by shared experiences, by facing adversities together, and by choosing each day to stand by each other."
She paused, letting her words sink in. "If your heart feels a connection, if you see a shared future, then no title or past can stand as a barrier."
Din took a moment to let it all in. He realized that she was giving him the approval to seek their leader. It felt too good to be true, yet at the same time, overwhelming. For he is approaching a new territory of who they meant for each other.
Breathing deeply, drawing strength from her words. "Thank you."
She gave a nod, her voice carrying a hint of warmth. "The path of the heart is as valid as the path of duty, and now, both of your paths are interconnected to each other. Let them guide you. This is the way."
"This is the way."
Bo-Katan Kryze has seen many things in her life during the war. But to witness something joyous is very rare of her aside when the Empire fell.
She had never been to a celebration, let alone celebrating with other people.
The colours and sounds of the Ming Po festival filled the evening air, with lanterns floating above and traditional music echoing in the distance. The road is covered in soft snow that is beginning to melt. The bustling crowd moved about, enjoying the various offerings. It's as if the battle earlier today never happened.
The closest thing she had ever considered a celebration was gathering with her Death Watch brothers and sisters. But that was more of a gathering rather than a celebration. Perhaps the time when she overthrew her sister, and Bo didn't want to think back on that.
What would the people here think of her? Knowing that one of the terrorists that attacked their village a long time ago is here, making peace offerings and wanting to understand their culture.
"Hey," Din tugged her arm gently, breaking her anxious mind from thinking too much. She glanced at him, "Are you okay?"
She nodded, "I'm fine." They are nearing the village, and she can see the fire getting brighter and brighter. "Just a little jumpy."
"Relax," he squeezed her hand in reassurance, "it's not a political meeting, we're safe here. The villagers here are peaceful, they welcome new sights."
"I find going to meetings a lot more familiar than this," She murmured under her breath, unconsciously getting a little closer to Din and hugging Grogu to her, "It's been so long since I've joined such thing."
"Well," he pulled her closer, her skin tingled in contact with Din's cool beskar armour, "Imagine celebrating for Mandalore again."
"It's not the festival that I'm worried about," she said softly under her breath, the sight of people getting even more visible. Since the assassination attempt on her, it became much more difficult to relax as the possibility of danger could be around the corner, ready to jump.
Din looked around, "Then what is? I'm sure their securities are up. And we're here," he tugged her again as if reminding her that he was here. "We'll protect you."
As much as she appreciated his determination and devotion to her, this thing she feared didn't have anything to do with her protection, "Not that, them," her eyes glanced at the first sight of the Ming Po walking here and there, heart racing like the sound of an incoming fighter. Some are noticing who she is, and it's making her nerves blow off, "Last I saw them, I was their enemy. I wonder if they'd recognize me."
"Oh," finally understanding her meaning, he chuckled, "Don't worry, last I was here moments ago, they are quite welcoming. And without your beskar, I doubt they would bat an eye on you, and Omera said it's a small festival for the village. Plus, Grogu is with us," he pointed with his helmeted chin at the child in her arm, she looked at the green child who was glancing everywhere, chirping enthusiastically. "The locals here love him at first sight."
She laughed and turned to the child nestled comfortably in her arm, "He does have that charm."
"Patu," Grogu pointed with his green talons at a stall that seemed to be selling some grilled meat, "Ba."
"Looks like someone is hungry," she noted.
"He's always hungry," he sighed, looking at the child in defeat as Grogu looked up at his father with his big black eyes innocently. Somehow, she could feel the frown on his face beneath the helmet, "But we haven't eaten anything yet, so we might as well grab something to eat before the Fire Dance."
"The Fire Dance?" she looked at him with confusion.
He nodded, "Apparently, it's their tradition where the guardian of their heavens repel the bad spirits away. Sounds interesting if you ask me."
"Well, if it's a cultural thing that I must understand, then I should probably see it," she guessed.
"Now, you're getting it," Bo could feel his grin under that helmet when he teased her. She gave him a look of annoyance, "Come on, let's go check them out." He pulled her eagerly to one of their stalls.
"Buuu!" Grogu squealed enthusiastically, knowing that he was allowed to eat some more, and floated as fast as his father.
Approaching the stall, Din signalled to the vendor, pointing towards a particular dish. "This," he began, turning to face Bo-Katan who had joined them, her eyes scanning the festival's expanse with curiosity, "is something you should try. I think you'll appreciate the flavours."
Bo-Katan, intrigued, arched an eyebrow. "You sound like you've become acquainted with Ming Po cuisine. Even if it's just half a day, I'm impressed."
Din chuckled lightly. "Only for this food sadly, after this kid stole some of their snacks here earlier today," he lightly tapped his son's head, earning an innocent grin from the little green child. His father shook his head in defeat before turning to her, "Otherwise, it's simple but really good." She chuckled at their little banter, they truly are a family.
The vendor handed Din a plastic plate filled with a couple of steaming little white ball-shaped dumplings, only the centre of one had three toothpicks stuck in the centre enough for the trio, the aromas wafting up to them both, causing Grogu's ears to wriggle. Din fished in his pouch for several credits and gave it to the vendor before turning to them both. "Careful, it's hot."
Bo accepted a plate from Din, blowing the steam, and took a bite, her eyes lighting up in surprise. "That's good!"
Din nodded in agreement. "It is," he chuckled. "Omera told me that it is a tradition to have these around during festivals like this as a sign of celebration. So this should be our celebration for the successful unity of Ming Po and Mandalore."
She nodded, suddenly the name of the other woman he spoke about didn't matter to her anymore knowing Din wanted to celebrate this moment with her instead. "Too bad Axe and Koska aren't here," she teased.
Bo thought she heard him groan at the mention of them both, "Well," he began, a hint of playful annoyance in his voice, "Sometimes fewer is better."
Bo-Katan smirked, catching onto his jest. "Jealous?"
Before Din could retort, the vendor handed them plates filled with the dish. The aroma was enticing, drawing them both in. Grogu, not one to be left out, made eager cooing sounds, grabbing their attention as they saw him reaching out for a taste.
"Patu! Buir," Grogu made several cooing in protest, calling Din as he waved his little arms.
"Want one, kid?" Din plucked one and handed it to Grogu, immediately dropping the subject of her comrades. Bo placed him back in his pram to let the child eat with ease, "Careful, kid. It's still hot."
But the kid didn't seem to understand his warning, most likely he was hungry already as he immediately shoved the dumpling into his mouth. He spat out the morsel, fanning his tiny mouth with his little hands, and looked at him with an indignant chirp directed at Din, his wrinkly brows furrowed.
Din sighed, "What did I just tell you, kid?" Grogu blew raspberry at him.
Bo couldn't help but laugh at the sight. Feeling sorry for the child, she took another piece and blew on it gently to both cool and dissipate some of the spice, and then offered it to Grogu. "Here, little one," she said gently to him, "this one shouldn't be too hot."
With cautious eyes, Grogu inspected the offering, then hesitantly took a bite. This time, there was no abrupt reaction. Instead, his eyes brightened, and a pleased coo echoed from him, gratitude evident in his large, expressive eyes. "Bruu."
Din looked at Bo-Katan, gratitude evident in his stance. "Thanks. I'd do that too if it weren't for my helmet."
Bo-Katan chuckled softly, "It's alright. But he's resilient. And besides," she winked playfully, "who could resist those eyes?"
Din couldn't help but chuckle. "You're not wrong."
Grogu, finishing his portion, looked up at the two of them with big, expectant eyes, hoping for another bite. Bo-Katan chuckled, giving him another piece. "You have good taste, little one."
Once the plate was finished, Din threw it to a nearby trash can that a sphere droid was cleaning up before turning back to Bo, "Let's find some more."
She lifted an eyebrow, "Are we just going to hop from one food stall to another? I thought festivals like these were all about snacks and little treats." At least, that's what she remembered before she was taken under Pre-Vizla's wing.
Din chuckled, "Omera once told me that the best part of the Ming Po festival is the street food. And most of what they have aren't mere snacks. They're hearty dishes like what we just had, not snacks."
As if on cue, Grogu let out a chirp of agreement from his pram, his big eyes darting between Din and Bo-Katan as if validating the Mandalorian's statement. "Bo! Bruuu!"
She laughed softly, glancing at Grogu. Sometimes, she's jealous of how he's going to have a wonderful memorable childhood, being able to experience such celebrations as this. And he's so lucky to have a father like Din. She kneeled to the child's eye level and tickled his chubby green cheek, earning a giggle from the child, "Well, with such a convincing endorsement from you, how can I resist?"
And so, they continued, moving from stall to stall, tasting and savouring the array of dishes and sticks. Every bite became not just about the food, but about sharing experiences, creating memories, and deepening the bond they shared.
They continued to enjoy the food, the festival's atmosphere enveloping them, creating a moment of calm amidst the ever-present challenges they faced. It was a simple pleasure that she felt nostalgic about.
But throughout their shared meal, it was also a shared experience together. Ever the culture expert that Din is, he seems to blend into the Ming Po culture like gloves. The sight of Grogu happily looking aesthetically made the locals believe that they were just another family having some time together.
Family.
As they meandered between stalls, Din pointing out various dishes he thought Bo should try and Grogu cooing or chirping at the ones he found particularly interesting, she couldn't help but overhear the whispers of the Ming Po locals.
A woman, her face lined with age but her eyes sparkling with mirth, nudged her companion. "Look at that lovely family. The father is so attentive, and the child is just so adorable," she remarked.
Her friend, a man with greying hair, nodded. "Yes, and the woman looks so lovely in that dress. They look very suitable."
Bo-Katan felt a blush creep onto her cheeks, the words making her heart flutter a bit but also anxious. Did they not know who they are? Or who Din is? He was the one who defeated their warrior, she sort of expected some bad mouth raining at them for somewhat humiliating them.
She leaned closer to Din, her voice in a nervous whisper, "People are looking at us, Din."
Din's step faltered for a second, a hint of surprise evident even through the helmet. "Really?" He mused but it didn't sound as panicky as hers, though his hand ghosted to the blaster on his belt. "Where?"
Although she appreciated his quick sense of protection and how he pulled her closer to him, she shook her head, "No, no, not like that," she gently his hand away from his blaster, fearing anyone would think that they were a threat, "They're looking at us and... they think we're a family."
Din's stance relaxed, though there was a hint of confusion in his tone. "A family? Why would they think that?"
She nearly sighed, he's so clueless. Turning subtly towards a couple who were watching them, the woman whispering something into the man's ear, both of them smiling warmly. "I think they saw how we're taking care of Grogu, and how….," she cleared her throat, feeling a little embarrassed to spit out the next words, "Close we are."
There was a momentary silence between them before Din responded, his voice softer. "Does that bother you? That we're somewhat….a family?"
Bo met his gaze, or at least where she guessed his eyes would be behind the visor. "No, not at all. It's quite... nice," she mused shyly, clasping her hands together, "My family time with my own wasn't long enough, I don't remember what it feels like to have one."
Her family was torn apart thanks to the war. Her parents died young, and her sister was taken into politics at such a young age, that she was all alone in her childhood, leaving her vulnerable to the influence of Pre Vizla. The concept of having a family felt like a distant memory.
It's been so long.
Without realizing it, Din snaked his hand to clasp hers, breaking her train of thought. The gentle warmth of his gloved hand around hers made her skin tingle at the contact, her eyes widened at the sight of their joined hands before she looked up at him.
It was difficult to read his expression beneath that beskar helmet of his, Bo wished that she could just take it off so that she could see his face. "You are never alone, Bo," he began, "Grogu and I are here, just say the word, and we'll be by your side."
"Buu," Grogu cooed in agreement, "Patu!"
Bo felt touched by his declaration for her. It has been so long since someone would want to follow her without question. She always thought that she was meant to finish her duty as Mand'alor alone, just like her sister.
But she's not Satine.
The Mand'alor shifted nervously while still holding his hand, "But what about Grogu's training?" The need to deny this declaration seems inevitable, she mustn't fall into another false hope. Dealing with disappointment is just so hard.
Din tilted his head, "What about it?"
He let go of his hands, "You need to take him on his journey, as the Armorer requested," she said sadly, "How can you be with me when you have your duty to your son?"
Grogu cooed, tilting his head sideways the way Din was used to doing, they truly are father and son.
Din speaks again, "I will still take him on his journeys," I knew it, her heart sank, "But we'll come home to Mandalore instead."
Her eyes widened, "What?"
"Nevaro is nice, I won't deny it. And Greef has been nothing but good to us," he moved closer to her, "But it's not home."
She blinked, "Oh?"
"Besides," he chuckled, "We fought for our planet, there was a war going here not one year ago. Our planet is still vulnerable, we should help defend it, especially with those imps still lurking and the assassination attempts on you. I think we'd like to stay on the planet we fought for together, after all, Mandalorians are stronger together, as you said," Bo shivered at his words, realizing that it was her words. "And," he pats Grogu's wrinkly head, "It'll be good for the kid to grow up with our kind, let him learn what he's fighting for too, right kid?"
"Patu," he nodded before raising his arms to Bo, his tiny teeth grinning, wanting her attention, "Bo!"
Warmth enveloped both her body and heart, either from the temperature of the festival, or the warmth of Din's words. He's staying!
Hearing the affirmation, a surge of relief and joy welled up in Bo-Katan. Without thinking, she closed the gap between them and wrapped her arms around him in a brief, tight embrace. "Thank you," she whispered into his beskar-clad shoulder, feeling a sense of joy that he was staying. "It's been a little lonely in Mandalore without the two of you."
However, realizing her impulsiveness, she began to retreat, a hint of embarrassment clouding her face, cheeks turning as red as her hair. "Sorry," she whispered shyly, rubbing her arm, her eyes avoiding his visor, "Just…..got carried away."
To her surprise, before she could fully pull away, Din's hand gently grasped her arm, pulling her back into the embrace. This time, his arms enveloped her with a warmth that conveyed understanding and reassurance, preventing her from full retreat. There was no need for words; the gesture spoke volumes.
He gently held her arm, "Don't be," he replied softly, pulling her back into a more deliberate embrace. "I'm happy that you'd like us to be around more often too, because we'd like that too."
She could've melted at that moment. He's so sweet, so caring, so protective, so supportive of her that no one could do for her. Maybe that's why she fell for him, and he her. The Keldabe Kiss and the time they've been in touch seem to prove the depths of their care for each other, even if it's not spoken out loud yet. Their actions spoke louder.
"Bruu," she forgot for a moment that Grogu was with them and made cooing noises, clearly not wanting to feel left out as he held his arms towards her.
Bo couldn't help but chuckle as she pulled away from Din and scooped the little child, "You hear that, kid? You're going to stay in Mandalore!"
The child squealed happily, clearly excited as she was.
"Come on," he said, gesturing at the centre of the village, "The Fire Dance is about to start."
She nodded happily, "Lead the way."
As they reached the central plaza of the village, the crowd began to form a circle, leaving an open space in the middle. The music started; a rhythmic, haunting melody that seemed to echo the very heartbeat of Mandalore. A group of dancers, dressed in flowing, flame-coloured robes, emerged, carrying their bowls of fire.
The dance began slowly, with the dancers moving in harmony, their bodies weaving intricate patterns as they danced around the flames. The firelight reflected off their faces, casting a warm, mesmerizing glow that made it seem as though they were forged from fire.
Grogu's eyes widened in awe, and he chirped excitedly, reaching out a small hand towards the mesmerizing display. Bo-Katan, captivated by the performance, leaned in and whispered to Din, "Incredible," she breathed out, watching the flame dance together in sync with the performers.
Din nodded in agreement, "It's said that this dance embodies the spirit of Ming Po, representing the resilience and passion of its people." He watched the dance intently, the flames reflecting off his helmet, giving him a mysterious and ethereal look.
The tempo of the music increased, and the dancers moved faster, their movements becoming more intense. The flames seemed to dance with them, reaching higher and higher, in sync with the crescendo of the music.
As the performance reached its climax, the dancers threw their bowls upwards, sending a shower of sparks into the night sky. The crowd erupted in applause and cheers, deeply moved by the raw emotion of the performance.
Din, Bo-Katan, and Grogu remained silent for a moment, absorbing the powerful energy of the dance. Grogu, overwhelmed by the spectacle, let out a satisfied coo and clapped with his little hands.
Bo turned to Din, her eyes shining with the reflection of the firelight. "That was thrilling!"
He nodded his head, "You haven't seen anything yet."
Before Bo could say anything again, the roar of cheers erupted again.
As the flames rose higher, their brilliance becoming more intense with the climax of the dance, something shifted in Bo. Her breathing grew erratic, her gaze distant. The dancing flames, which moments ago held the beauty of tradition and culture, now took on a haunting quality.
They were no longer just flames.
Bo-Katan gazed upon her world as it burned, the once-proud cityscapes of Mandalore reduced to a smouldering ruin. The sight was cataclysmic, like witnessing the very soul of her home being devoured by a ravenous inferno.
"Sector 6!" She desperately called, "Can you hear me?" Only statics can be heard.
The distant screams of Mandalorians pierced through the thunderous crashes of falling structures. The night sky, previously clear and glistening with stars, was now choked with an ashen haze. Fires raged everywhere, a macabre spectacle, dancing grotesquely amidst the despair and destruction.
The Empire had descended upon them like a wrathful storm, their relentless barrage of firepower overwhelming even the bravest of her warriors. Bo, atop a raised vantage point, could only watch in agonizing impotence as her kin fell, one by one, amidst the bursts of blaster fire.
The cries of the fallen, the desperate calls for help over the comms— they were a torturous symphony, echoing the doom that had befallen her people.
Every explosion that lit the night sky cast shadows on her helm, reflecting both the literal and metaphorical ruin of her homeland. Her heart ached with each soul extinguished in those ferocious flames, every warrior who met their end in a cacophony of pain and desolation.
"Bo?"
She could barely hear him. His voice was muffled by the cheers and music of the performance, a soft ring amidst the cacophony of her thoughts.
"Bo?" Grogu called.
"Bo," this time, she could hear her a little louder as he raised his voice with such a concerned tone, she could also feel him trying to shake her gently awake, "What's going on? Are you alright?"
I'm fine, she tried to speak, to assure him that she was fine, but no words came. Only a choked sob, as tears, hot and urgent, spilt unbidden down her cheeks running down fast.
He seemed to sense the turmoil beneath her silence as he gently took her arm. Without a word, he guided her away, making way from the crowd, respecting the silent plea in her stillness, providing a haven away from any prying eyes and vivid triggers, though thankfully, no one bats an eye on them as they are all so focused on the performance. His son, in his pram, followed them both.
Still, somewhat in the lingering limbo of her thoughts and reality, she didn't realize that he brought her outside the village, bringing her near the forest where light green lushes were beginning to grow under the melting snow, and the sound of night creatures gently chirping.
Under the soft glow of the moons, near the gentle murmur of the river, he turned to her, "Are you okay, Bo?" his visors searching her face for a sign, a glimpse into the depths of her pain.
Her answer never came from her mouth.
Bo's stoic demeanour finally shattered, and a sob, raw and laden with decades of suppressed grief, escaped her. She did not expect such a performance could immediately open the door to a hidden memory inside her so fast. She had tried so hard to use that pain as motivation, but it seems that some managed to trigger terrible memories again. Her knees buckled beneath the weight of her anguish, but Din was there, and without hesitation, his arms wrapping around her, providing silent, sturdy support.
She planted her face into his beskar chest and allowed the tears to flow, the dam of her resilience finally yielding to the torrential pain behind it. Her voice, a barely audible whisper amidst her sobs, found its way to his ears. "So much fire…the explosion on Sundari…the Empire…"
"Mandalore is safe now, Gideon is dead. You're safe now, there is no danger," he shushed her, calming her down. He simply held her as he whispered calming words to her ears, steadfast, as she allowed herself the rare vulnerability of mourning what was lost. His hand gently stroked her hair, a silent promise of presence, of shared burden. "I'm here, Bo. I'm here."
That did it. Bo's tears soaked the fabric of Din's cloak, her shoulders trembling with each heavy sob that was freed from her chest. She could feel his hands, steady and tender, lightly tracing comforting circles on her back, offering her solace that was both unspoken and profoundly understood.
In his embrace, she found Din as her anchor amidst the turbulent sea of her torment, something to hold onto when everything else seemed to spiral into chaos. A softness enveloped her, a warmth that seemed to gently coax her from the jaws of her despair. The world outside of his arms seemed to melt away if only for a moment, providing her with a respite.
As she began to calm down, Bo realised what she had done but made no movements to pull away from Din.
It felt nice to be in his arms, the way he gently drew circles on her back was soothing, just staying silent and being with her. He was willing to be there for her.
She swallowed the lump in her throat, "I'm sorry," She whispered.
"Don't be," he replied softly as he gently rubbed her arm, for a warrior, he sure has a soft side to him. She had heard many things about him, deadly, dangerous. But to be able to see this side of him feels like an honour to her, "You were in shock," he said.
Oh, Din. The thought that he did not judge her warmed her heart, inside that warrior who defeated a Ming Po and helped her in this peace treaty was a gentle and noble man she had become so fond of. Bo had never thought this would happen. He brought out the best in her when everyone expected her to do something. It's nice to have that kind of support.
She didn't have any plan to let go of him, "Sorry I ruined the night," she said sheepishly.
She felt him shaking his helmet, "You didn't," he said, "I enjoyed our time."
"But you missed the next fire performance," she protests, feeling sorry that he's trying to make her enjoy the night and it ended up like this.
"It's fine, it's not like we can't see it again next time."
We. He said We! Bo's heart could burst at any moment now. That implication is enough to know that Din wants to have another moment with her. Then again, he did offer her to go to Nevaro with him if it weren't for this meeting.
"Bruuu?" She had forgotten that Grogu had been with them for a while. Like his father, thank goodness he didn't seem to judge her on anything. But his big brown eyes stared sadly at her, his long ears drooping with sadness. "Bo?"
Adoring the little child, she managed to pull away gently from Din and lifted his son from his pram, "I'm sorry, kid. You didn't get to see the whole Fire Dance."
"Patu," he didn't sound angry or upset, instead, he reached out his little hands and patted her cheeks, Grogu's big brown eyes closed. Without missing a beat, there's this soothing sensation of calm and peace flowing in her, replacing the anxiety and fear she experienced moments ago. It was the same feeling when the kid was healing her broken hand.
It wasn't long until Grogu opened his eyes, cooing to her, "Buu?"
She can't help but smile, her hand began caressing his ears, "Thank you, sweetheart. I'm better."
"Baa," the kid's ears wiggled happily, then he planted his face on her chest, "Bo," he chirped.
"Are you better?" Din asked her.
She nodded, "Yeah," She said, "Sorry about earlier."
"It's fine," he squeezed her arm, "We can go elsewhere."
Bo quirked her brow, where else had Din explored in just a day? "But the festival is there?" she looked back at the village where they could still hear the music echoing through the distance.
"I'll show you," he suddenly took her hand in his, "Come on."
"Din, where are you taking me?" Bo-Katan's voice quivered with a curious lilt as she was gently guided through the forest of snow, her hand enveloped warmly within Din's.
Just a step behind, Grogu's pram floated beside him, his large eyes shimmering with excitement and wonder at the adventure that lay before them. He emitted soft, eager coos, his tiny hands grasping at the air in anticipation. "Baaa."
"Just a little further," Din promised, his voice a soothing balm in the darkening wilderness, "We're almost there."
Despite her slightly perturbed demeanour, a subtle smile curled Bo's lips as she allowed Din to lead the way. Her Ming Po sandals crunched lightly under the soft snow, echoing softly through the tranquillity of the night.
As the trio emerged from the thick, verdant curtain of the forest, a soft glow began to permeate the surroundings, revealing a breathtaking spectacle.
"Here we are," Din softly said.
"Bruu!" Grogu added.
Bo's eyes widened. She found herself in a secluded, glowing lake before them, surrounded by thousands of fireflies, each illuminating the night with their gentle light, dancing and swaying in an entrancing sway. Every time each insect touched the water, the ripple produced an illuminating sapphire light below, lighting up the surface of the lake.
"Patu!" Grogu's wide eyes sparkled, reflecting the light of the fireflies, his small form twitching with delight at the magical sight. He reached out a small hand towards the insects, his coos taking on a melody of amazement and joy.
"It's beautiful," Bo breathed her words barely a whisper amidst the gentle chorus of the fireflies and the soft lapping of the water at the lake's edge. She stepped forward to see a better view of the lake, watching as the insects made ripples that looked like they could take her to another world.
His hand gently squeezing hers, Din stepped closer, his voice a gentle murmur, "This place... is special," he began." Omera said that at the first sign of spring, the fireflies come here to find their partners, dancing through the night over the glowing waters of the lake. It is where," he paused for a while before he continued with a nervous tone, "it is where they also choose their mates to be with for the rest of their lives."
Bo turned to him after he explained, and her brain began to realise what he had done. The fireflies symbolise a gentle pursuit of connection, of finding one's counterpart amidst the enveloping darkness.
And Din is doing just that. He has been with her since her darkest days, since the fall of her castle. Perhaps that is where the light came to her when he was with him.
Din's helmet tilted, and he gently released her hand. There was a pause, a stillness that hung between them for a moment, before his hand returned, now gently cradling something solid, yet incredibly delicate. "There's something I've been wanting you to have."
Bo looked at the object in his hand, inspecting it. It's a jade bracelet, carved with the beauty of two moons, small bright stones decorated the surface of its ornament.
As he placed a finely carved, green jade bracelet into her palm, the radiant glow from the fireflies softly illuminating its elegant craftsmanship, his voice was barely audible, "In the culture of the Ming Po, they share this as a symbol of respect and admiration, that's why this jade is considered one of the most important ornaments one could ever possess," he sounded somewhat nervous, to which she finds it adorable, "It represents in the form of the heavens while the moons represent gentleness and brightness."
Bo looked at Din, listening to his explanation carefully, wanting to know where he was getting at.
He lifted his gaze, helmet meeting her eyes, "That day, on that ship, where I pledged myself to you, I meant every word that I said to you Bo," he said, "I find myself drawn to you more and more every day. You are the most courageous, amazing and valiant warrior I've ever met. You'd gladly put yourself in danger if it meant saving others, and that is what admire about you, Bo. How I….feel about you."
Bo looked up, attempting to meet his eyes through the visor of the helmet, her voice barely audible yet thick with emotion. This man….just how does he do it? He just knows the right words to turn her into a puddle, "Din..."
He lifted his hand, placing it softly over hers on his chest. "Since leaving to take Grogu on his journeys, I realise my constant has been one thing - you. And my feelings for you have grown into something...something I've never felt before."
She could feel her heart fluttering wildly, butterflies in her stomach, her voice coming as a soft, sincere whisper, "Din, I...I feel the same way," she finally said, "I have for a while now...I was just too afraid to admit it, even to myself." Bo had never been good at revealing her feelings to anyone, yet here she was, confessing to the one Mandalorian she couldn't bear to lose, "I missed you and the kid since you both left Mandalore."
Bo heard him sigh in relief, sounding as if he was happy that the feeling was mutual. In his triumph moment, his hand wrapped to hers that is currently holding his gift for her, "May I?"
She nodded ever so slightly, her throat thick with emotions, as her fingers hovered over the bracelet. And then, with a gentle nudge from Din, the bracelet slipped onto her wrist. It was more beautiful than she could have imagined, it felt cool yet comforting. Its physical beauty paled in comparison to the depth of sentiment it carried.
"It's beautiful, Din," she managed to utter, her voice barely more than a whisper yet laden with emotions, echoing amidst the soft glow of the fireflies.
She gently touched the bracelet, feeling the cool surface of the jade against her skin. Yet, beneath that touch, she felt something else - a promise, a silent oath communicated through Din's steady gaze and the warm, comforting presence that enveloped her amidst the ethereal glow of the tranquil lake.
Bo's heart swirled, gratitude being the most prominent among them. Without hesitation, she stepped forward, encasing Din in a tight embrace, her arms wrapping around him with a gentle strength. "Thank you, Din," she whispered, her voice carrying a mixture of appreciation and an unsaid emotion, "For everything you've done for me."
Din reciprocated the embrace, his armoured arms encasing her in a cocoon of warmth and security. They stood like that for a moment, allowing the heartfelt emotions to flow between them, unsaid, yet deeply felt. "I'll do anything for you."
Gradually, Din lowered his head, his helmet gently touching her forehead, an intimate acknowledgement of the bond that had silently woven itself between them. She wants to kiss him, she wants to know the depth of his feelings from his mouth.
But the creed.
In the stillness of the moment, as if he read her mind, he clasped both her hands and led them to his helmet.
Bo's eyes widened, knowing where this was going, "Are you sure?"
He nodded, "In our tradition," he turned their conversation of the culture of others to theirs now, such poet, "It is allowed to remove one's helmet in front of their loved ones."
Hearing his explanation, she knows neither of them can turn back now. This meaning is equivalent to being married. Was this a gamble when he planned to bring her here? If it is, he certainly had hit a jackpot.
Getting his permission, she opened her mouth, "May I?" she repeated the same question as he did, a soft plea layered within the gentle timbre of her voice. "I mean, if it's okay."
A pause hung in the air between them, but it didn't seem to take long for him to decide. With a subtle nod, he granted her silent permission.
Bo's fingers worked deftly, lifting the helmet as it gave out a soft hiss.
As the helmet lifted, revealing Din's face to her for the first time, her breath hitched in her throat. His eyes, dark and endlessly deep, met hers with a vulnerability that both shattered and mended her heart at the same moment.
In the gentle glow of the fireflies, amidst the soft chirping of the forest around them, Bo Katan looked into the face of Din Djarin, truly seeing him for the first time. His features, handsome and worn from battles fought and burdens borne, told tales of a life lived with honour, resilience, and silent, enduring strength. His dark curly hair was the same one she saw when they were in Gideon's light cruiser and his eyes….by the force, they looked like summer.
"You're handsome, Din" Bo whispered, her voice barely audible yet impossibly clear in the serene silence of the night. Her eyes, earnest and open, searched his for any hint of discomfort, finding none.
A soft, somewhat shy smile curled at the corners of Din's lips. His hands, steady yet gentle, found hers, pulling them gently away from his face and holding them within his own. "Bo," he began, his voice a gentle caress in the quiet of the night without the modulator, "You are far, far more beautiful than I could ever be."
A tender chuckle escaped her lips, and for a moment, they simply stood there, hands entwined, eyes locked, and hearts entwined in a silent understanding.
She didn't know who started first, but they both began to lean into each other, faces almost touching. She can hear their breathing and the gentle atmosphere of the softly glowing forest surrounding them.
"Patu?"
The palpable tension of anticipated intimacy was electric in the air, yet just as their lips were mere breaths apart, a sharp, curious chirp sliced through the moment.
Grogu, who'd been watching with wide, intrigued eyes, tilted his head to the side, the sight of them both so close to one another and yet not quite touching puzzling him.
A soft, amused chuckle escaped from Din's lips, his forehead resting against Bo's as he glanced sideways towards Grogu.
The little one, sensing he was now the centre of attention, chirped again, his dark eyes flickering between Din and Bo with innocent curiosity.
Din pulled back slightly, a warm, gentle smile playing on his lips as he addressed Grogu. "Buddy," he began, his voice a soft whisper, "can you turn around for a while?"
Grogu blinked, then, with an exaggerated, dramatic sigh and a playful puff of his cheeks, he turned away, his little hands covering his eyes for good measure. "Buuu," he chirped.
They both laughed lightly at his son's reaction, loving the way Grogu grumbled.
It wasn't long until they looked at each other and leaned in once again.
This time uninterrupted, sealing their confessions, promises, and unspoken words in a gentle, lingering kiss beneath the soft glow of the fireflies.
While Grogu kept his eyes shielded, although a mischievous smirk played upon his tiny face, he lifted his little hand and used the force to connect with the insects to fly around them.
Enlightening their moment together beneath the starlit sky and the soft glow of fireflies.
They approached the entrance of Bo's guest house, its calm ambience heightened by lanterns flickering in the evening breeze along the way.
Din stopped just short of the doorway, Grogu's pram beside him, the tiny being's heavy eyelids signalling a day filled with wonder and joy.
Bo's voice, filled with a genuine warmth, broke the gentle silence. She looked up at him with a smile she hadn't worn in such a long time, "Thank you for this evening. I enjoyed my time."
Din, sensing the depth of her sentiment, replied, "I'm glad you enjoyed it," he genuinely said to her, "The people here seem to enjoy having you here too."
"All thanks to you," she remarked.
"I'm just being friendly with the neighbours," he shrugged.
She looked at his chest, her voice began to sound meek. "It's been a while since I've gone to such celebrations," she admitted, today truly brought her back to the time when she was with her own family when she was very young. Today also unlocked a lot of happy memories she used to have with them.
"We can go again next time," he offered with a gentle squeeze of his hand to hers, "perhaps Nevaro has a lot of those, or maybe Mandalore can start having festivals like that too."
Bo smiled from ear to ear, "I'd like that," Only Din was able to help her unlock those cherished memories she had long forgotten, and a feeling of belonging and hope.
He made her feel young. And loved.
Din's thoughtfulness, and his attention to her well-being, deepened the feelings she held for him. "Thank you," she whispered, the simple words carrying a depth of emotion.
Grogu's sleepy coo captured their attention. With a grace uniquely her own, Bo-Katan bent down, gently kissing Grogu's forehead. The child responded with a delighted trill, his joy palpable, but his eyes began drooping.
Din chuckled softly, "I think someone's sleepy," her eyes turned to see Grogu rubbing his eyes with another yawn.
She leaned into the child's ear, "Good night, kid," she whispered. The child cooed, bumping his little head to her forehead before sleepily lying down in his pod.
Din brought the pram closer to him, "Looks like running around with the fireflies was fun."
"Just as we did," she teased, their last time in that forest was truly 'fun'.
The space between them shrunk as they leaned into a warm embrace, a simple gesture encapsulating the depth of their shared connection. As they parted, an unspoken promise lingered in the air. She wished he could stay here, but the guest house can only be occupied by one person.
"Goodnight, Bo," Din's voice held warmth as he whispered into her ear.
She hugged him tighter, hoping that he could feel her through the silver beskar, "Night."
Bo and Din lingered in the hug, each second ticking by but neither was willing to let go immediately. It was as if they could suspend time at that moment, holding onto a peace and tranquillity that had for so long evaded them amidst the battles and chaos of their respective paths.
As they gently pulled away, their eyes met – two souls connecting without words, speaking a silent language that only the heart understood. Bo's eyes glistened, reflecting the soft lights from the entryway of her dwelling and perhaps, the deeper emotions swirling within. Her hands, now empty, missed the reassuring presence of Din, and she lightly touched the spot where his arms had been around her.
"See you tomorrow," he said one last time to her before he turned around and walked away with his sleeping son.
As Din and Grogu's forms retreated into the embrace of the Ming Po night, Bo-Katan remained, a whirl of emotions swirling within her. This has been the most enjoyable and memorable day of her life, she felt like a teenage girl pining over her crush.
When had ever felt this way? It's been so long.
She never thought anyone would adore her the way Din did. She was too hard, too rash, too stubborn to be with anyone. Sometimes she hated how ungirly she was because of that, she must've scared a lot of men in her life.
But not Din.
He accepted her for who she was. He was with her all the time, even when she lost her castle, he didn't hesitate to take her in.
"The evening appears to have offered you more than just a festival, Lady Kryze" a new voice of a modulator emerged from beside her guest house, startling the Mand'alore.
Bo turned to see the Armorer approaching, her helmet's golden hue capturing the faint glimmer of the surroundings. She is still in her usual outfit. "Armorer," Bo greeted shyly.
"Lady Kryze," she greeted back, "Axe and Koska mentioned your evening with Din," she stood by her side, looking in the direction Din and Grogu disappeared. "They even tried to convince me to give you some alone time with him."
Bo shyly rubbed her neck, "They can overreact sometimes," remembering how her comrades were teasing her about her night together with Din. They were right though, she does want alone time with the man she adored.
The wise mentor of Din chuckled, she then noticed her visor was looking at her wrist, "Our paths are wrought with difficulty and hardship, Bo-Katan. Moments of peace and sincere connection are rare jewels amidst the tumult."
At the mention of jewels, her hand ghosted to the bracelet, the bright green standing out against her skin, and found herself lost for words. Her mind was a swirl of emotions, and the Armorer's sudden presence and tacit understanding further unbalanced her. "It is," she sheepishly said.
"He's very fond of you," she stated plainly, her voice steady and observational.
Bo's shoulders stiffened, a subtle nod affirming the unspoken reality she'd only allowed herself to ponder in solitude. "He is."
With an imperceptible tilt of her helmet, the Armorer continued, "And you are fond of him."
She chewed on her bottom lip, her fingers still caressing the jade bracelet, reflecting on unspoken emotions and fears nestled within her warrior's heart. She exhaled, her voice quivering ever so slightly, "Is it so apparent?"
"Only to eyes that observe," came the gentle reply from the Armorer that sounded almost like Satine. "You two formed a very close bond, I've seen the way you interacted the moment you came to our covert. And it has only grown stronger ever since."
Bo's eyes wandered back into the path Din and Grogu took, shrouded now by the dark, "It's not supposed to be this complex...Our paths...they're so intertwined yet distinctly divergent."
Gentle yet sturdy, the Armorer replied, "Mandalorians have been bound by duty, by creed, by armour, and history. Our connections, our alliances, especially those forged in the crucible of personal feelings and respect, go beyond mere strategic significances."
She paused, allowing the words to sink into Bo's consciousness, "In our efforts to restore, to rebuild, it's these very connections that will pave the way for a unity that's etched in both strength and sincerity."
Bo looked at her, "But I do not want them to stray away from their path just for me," she whispered in protest. "He has a son to train."
"And he will always have his son to train, no matter the circumstances," the Armorer reasons to her, "Din Djarin is devoted to the Way, and to the people he cares for such as his son. And now, he has extended his devotion to you."
Bo rubbed her arm, taking in her words of advice to her, "Well…." she does have a point.
The Armorer walked closer to her and touched her shoulder, "Our Creed puts family above anything else, Bo-Katan Kryze."
Bo blinked, taken slightly aback by the Armorer's understanding tone, not missing the implication behind her words.
The Armorer continued, "Love is a commitment, a pledge akin to the ones we take as Mandalorians. It does not weaken our resolve; rather, it fortifies it, giving us something more to fight for, something beyond ourselves."
Bo, her mind swimming with emotions, tried to form words but found none.
She continued, "To love and be loved, to care for one's own - it's a potent force, Bo-Katan. One that has the power to ignite revolutions and forge empires. Din Djarin and you have danced with death, wrestled with despair, and emerged from it. Your battles have always been for Mandalore, for our people. But remember, it is the personal connections, the family we build, that often become our unspoken strength."
Pausing a moment to let the words seep in, the Armorer tilted her head slightly, "Our creed binds us, shapes us, but it also evolves, moulded by the hands of those who carry its weight. Din has begun to see that, and perhaps, through the lens of love, you shall see it too."
Bo nodded, eyes shimmering in the dim light. "He is... unlike anyone I have ever known."
"I imagine he is that to you," the Armorer replied, making her shy of her notice, "and you, to him, are a beacon, a semblance of hope and strength. Together, perhaps, you could forge a new path for all Mandalorians - where we can all truly be one."
She stiffened at the implication of her words, "What are you getting at?"
The wise Armorer only chuckled, "A proper unity between the Nite Owl and the Children of the Watch, I do not see how bad it is," she stated, "It only shows how two factions can come together properly. And if you do plan to have children together, the child would be born under a new order of unity between old and new."
"Wait, hold on a minute," her cheeks flushed at the mention of children. When did the Armorer begin thinking of her and Din for the long term? "That is going way too far."
She chuckled, "I have seen how you looked at him, and seen how he looked at you. You both complete each other, and his son has already seen you as his own. I do not see why you both can't be together. If anything, he has been with you sine the beginning, has he not?"
Bo looked down shyly, remembering all that he had done for her. Sweet Din, ever so ready to serve her no matter the turmoil, made her fall harder for him. "He is." When he volunteered himself to be her champion, thinking about her cause, those were enough to make fall harder and faster for him.
She nodded, "Din had a similar conflict as you when he asked about pursuing you," this peaked Bo's attention as she turned to her sharply, the Armorer chuckled, "I will not go into detail on what we spoke about, but I can tell you what I told him too."
"And that is?"
"The path of the heart is as valid as the path of duty. Let both guide you. This is the way."
Some of these festivals are inspired by Japanese and Chinese festivals, even the food. Most of their street foods are the best! As for the forest part, it was inspired by Final Fantasy X where Tidus and Yuna were together. I always liked that scene, so I put it here too.
And they finally kissed! Been waiting for this moment ;) And Grogu is also our jedi wingman on making the scene more special, to which I enjoyed adding in the scene.
Anyways, I hope you like it :)
Lemme know what you think :)