Chapter 6: At The Races
2 Years Later
Now sixteen years of age Iz'phal was coming into her own. She had managed to save enough money from her years of work in the bank and her year of unclean street dealings and purchased her first apartment in the lower levels of Coruscant. It was nothing like Khaled's apartment, nothing like the grandness of 500 Republica but to her it was home and to have her own place at sixteen was impressive. Having worked in the banking clan for three years Iz'phal had amassed a vast amount of influence in the right circles and had moved up in the galaxy. She was working at various branches, including Gadoba the Hutt's personal bank and Temax's own personal business. She still visited Khaled often and never would be grateful enough for his kind heart and saving her all those years ago, helping her turn her life around. Thinking things could not get any better her friendship with Alexia had grown considerably and they were now best friends, meeting up every weekend, going to the podraces, nights out on the town with work friends, Sabine and Snix always trying to out gun her when it came to drink, while on the odd occasion still doing her casino nights and her Sabacc skills came back like a charm. She hoped one day to travel the galaxy and see many more places and make more friends. True Coruscant was beautiful but the whole galaxy was out there just waiting to be explored and she wanted to experience everything she could. Iz'phal was excited for the weekend ahead. Alexia had two tickets to the local podracing championships and he'd invited her, plus having enough money she had gone clothes shopping and bought some new outfits. She hoped to wear something in appropriate colours to support her racer and would be sure to lay down a bet or two, not losing her gambling streak. Having a well-deserved weekend off Iz'phal kicked off her ankle boots and strode to the broad window, where she could overlook the streets below her. She just reminisced with the girl she had been to where she was. It made her heart swell with pride to know she had done all this by herself, but she needed to pop by and see Khaled soon. Without him this would never have been possible. He'd brought her to Coruscant, showed her a new way of life was possible, but it was her that needed to change, and she had embraced every moment of it and now was loving herself and her new life. Sighing contently, she slipped on the holo feeds in the background to check the latest podracing results wanting to know if a bet she had recently placed on a racer had come through. Before she could get annoyed about the loss of her racer her holo unit flashed to say a call was coming in. She wondered over to the device and her heart almost leapt for joy and a dash of nervousness…Mum…Iz'phal's breath caught in her throat as she answered the call with trembling hands and there is was, music to her ears, the voice of her mother after all these years and she didn't sound cross or angry. She sounded relieved, happy as if it was a joy to reach out to her daughter after all this time and the elder twi'lek had never been so relieved to hear her voice.
"Mum…Mum is that you?" Iz'phal's voice said unsure, choked with emotion as the familiar lull of her mother's voice sounded over the comm unit and she didn't know how to respond: To respond to the voice of her own mother which she hadn't heard for a long time.
"Izzy, my Izzy I've finally got through to you. Thank the stars I've been worried sick. Where are you? What's going on?" Her mother asked, worry evident in her voice as Iz'phal took the com unit and sat down on the sofa, heart hammering in her ribs as she nearly burst into tears as the tone of her father reached her ears before she could answer.
"Is that my girl? We've missed you so much" her father spoke, Iz'phal could tell her father was emotional, his voice trembling a fraction as both parents heard their daughter respond. She didn't have it in her heart yet to tell them what she had been doing, she needed to keep that close to her, but she would tell the truth when she found the strength to. Iz'phal felt a welcome wave of warmth spiralling through her chest as she had been reunited with her parents, even if it wasn't in the flesh she was still overjoyed to hear their voices.
"Mum, Dad…I don't know what to say…How are you?" Iz'phal asked, swiping her cheeks to wipe away the tears that did come along in the end "How's all at home, my sisters?" She was just relieved to hear everyone was doing well, her father talking to her about his mining exploits while her mother had been continuing her collecting of twi'lek artefacts and artwork before her father said he loved her and he would come and visit her soon as he attended to his work leaving mother and daughter to have a long overdue catch up.
"Izzy my darling I miss you so much and just want you to come home, but I suppose you have a home away from home now" her mother said in regret, Iz'phal disappointed to hear the sadness in her mother's voice as she just wanted to install confidence in her parents that she was being independent, just wanting to make them proud.
"I'd love to come home mum, but I live on Coruscant now. I have a job in the banking clan and it's going well. I've been there for nearly three years now and am fitting right in. My team are just the best and I've made some great friends. I'm really enjoying myself. I have friends in the senate now to" Iz'phal smiled, as hearing the enthusiasm in her daughter's voice she sounded happy and that made her mother happy, just to know that she had a stable job, a roof over her head and she was of good health. Iz'phal thought about it then and there just wanting to tell the truth, wanting the words to leave her mouth just to get it over with but she couldn't, not being able to get the image out of her head that she would bring shame to her parents if she told them, so she kept it quiet.
"That's great Izzy love I'm so happy. Me and your father will come to visit you, we promise. Ryloth is very quiet without you" Her mother sighed, just wanting to hold her daughter in her arms but there was a great distance that separated them and Iz'phal just had to draw on her strong resolve to say to herself that whatever she would do from now on in her life she would do to make her parents proud.
"I'd sure love to see it again. Miss, you guys loads too" Iz'phal said, holding the comm close to her chest as just to hear her mother's voice again soothed her heart that had been hurt much of her life. She had recovered from most of the bruises and hadn't run into Skavak since that night all those years ago, but she was pretty sure she could teach that scum a lesson if she ran into him again.
"Love you Izzy darling, we'll speak soon, I promise" Her mother said, Iz'phal never feeling happier than she did in this moment as she blew a kiss to her mum down the channel before she hung up, resting the back of her head against the couch, heart raising. She hadn't expected to hear from her family after all this time but to talk to them even if it was for just fifteen minutes was more than she could ask for. She got wearily to her feet before realising the time. Alexia was going to be picking her up soon and she needed to get ready. Realising she was late she jumped in the shower before choosing the appropriate outfit to wear.
The Sith Empire aimed to bring the Jedi to heel but it was their dominance in military and the fighting power that made them so devastating. For one man in this galaxy it was intimidating to witness such force but impressive to be sure. On the war ridden planet of Yavin 4 the young Imperial officer Malavai Quinn fell into line with his fellow soldiers. The sound of heavy artillery fire blasted through the air thick with dust and smoke as this site of Yavin 4 was being used to test the Empire's most impressive and vicious weapons. Quinn was only in his third week of service, promoted already to lieutenant and willing with all his strength to serve the Sith, the Emperor and their cause. The Empire was a symbol of might, a symbol for peace and prosperity in the galaxy, with law and order bringing those who resisted to the ground. It was a noble cause that he was willing to serve. Having just turned the young age of twenty he had enlisted into the Imperial army the first chance he got and had never looked back. Standing in line with the other loyal troops either side of him he got the impression he was one of the youngest recruits in the Empire's military history. All the other men looked older, had more muscle on their bones, more body in their armour but he had one thing a lot of them didn't…Intellect and a way to use it, a powerful, cunning brain to benefit the Empire. Quinn was a handsome specimen, cheekbones and jaw perfectly aligned, with short black hair always quipped behind his ears and piercing blue eyes. Like the rest of his fellow imperials he'd donned some sleek black vest and trousers, hands slipped into black gloves with the Imperial symbol displayed proudly on the shoulder and front of the vest. He blended in perfectly with the rest of the recruits, all perhaps for his age. The murmuring that was occurring down the lines seemingly stopped as all the soldiers including Quinn stood to attention as their commanding officer, flanked by his own personal red robed shock troopers stood before them, the plaque on the breast of his black and grey tunic showing how high up the chain of Imperial command he was. The Imperial captain paced down the line of soldiers, examining and analysing the troops in his command before he heighted his posture even more and began to pace, gloved hands tied behind his back. Quinn as always when his superior spoke listened intently, never wishing to miss a word of his superior's orders. The commander's voice demanded instant respect as its pitch and volume was all that was needed to make people aware of his presence.
"This is a historic day for the Empire…" the commander began as Quinn caught some of the soldiers rolling their eyes as if they'd heard this speech many times before, but Quinn never ignored a word from the higher ups, even if it had to be repeated several times. "Our Emperor and the Sith close to securing victory in this war. The treacherous Republic has stood in our way for the last time. Now we are to move to the front. You are to be deployed at the Ord Mantell Garrison tomorrow morning and report to your commanding officer there. Once our base is established we can then begin our occupation of that miserable world. They'll be thankful when the see the Imperial banners displayed in Fort Garnik. You have each earned your right to be a part of this great war and if you fall on the battlefield it will not be in vain. You are soldiers of the Empire and may you always serve us well. For the Emperor!" The commander finished proudly, the soldiers as one saluting and shouting their patriotism as their superior strode towards the base, red guards flanking him. The hive of activity began around him as each soldier knew their task and station, where they had to be. Quinn immediately sprang into action. All the years of training and dreaming, this was it. His chance to make a name in the galaxy and put his words into actions in service of the Emperor. He attended his duties immediately without instruction or supervision as the Imperial battalion readied themselves for war.
Iz'phal was having a torrid mid-morning nap. Another dream but this one was the worst. The imagery had started off beautiful and serene then it became a nightmare. The man in the dream, seemingly her husband was as handsome as a girl could wish for and caring, cared and loved her more than anyone ever had until they…The Empire came along. She screwed her eyes shut and squirmed under the influence of the painful images, just wanting them to go away but they ran rampant in her mind. It was almost as if she was dreaming of the future and it was lovely, all she'd ever wanted, at least twenty years later before it was all taken away from her. Iz'phal would hate to lose all the good she had in her life now only to have to go back to the beds of men who didn't appreciate her, just wanted her for their own carnal needs.
Iz'phal lived in a beautiful homestead, Alderann was a lovely world, the air so clean and fresh, the mountains so tall and strong, the skies blue and open. It was the happiest she'd ever been in her life. The homestead was on a sloping hill, surrounded by poplar trees and lush greenery and a crystal stream winding through the land. Fields surrounded the land where nerf-herders and flutterplumes grazed contentedly and other various species of galactic livestock wondered around their pens. The twi'lek girl now in her thirties was married and had a beautiful home. It was a peaceful morning on the farm, her husband away at a fair locally to sell their wares as the sunlight dappled her blue skin. She was wrapped in a basic brown and white dress, brown laced boots on her feet, a headband keeping her lekku tied up from her face as she reached inside her apron and scattered grains and seeds on the ground to feed the livestock. Sighing in contentment she checked off the list of chores in her head as she went through the morning routine of cleaning the cages and filling up the feed, collecting the eggs from the flutterplumes and popping them into her basket and plants from the soil that had grown delicious vegetables. Just as she was about to head back to the house to begin preparing a batch of broth for her and her husband a group of men in black uniforms, militant in step and purpose strode up the path, rank plaques displaying their standing in imperial society as she put her basket down, intrigued by the visitors, giving them her attention. She was baffled by their sudden appearance but knew better to argue, particularly when they looked important, perhaps republic agents or law enforcement. When the four men where in front of her, the tallest and handsomest of the four stepped forward, examining the young girl in front of him and was going to enjoy this.
"Good morning miss. This is your property?" The imperial captain asked as Iz'phal nodded, a friendly smile lighting up her face, assuming they were local tradesmen and didn't mean any harm.
"Of course good sir. I was merely attending to my livestock this morning. Anything I can help you with at all?" Iz'phal asked sweetly as the innocence, that sweetness in her eyes nearly propelled him to her like a magnet but he kept control, waited for the right moment then they could all have their reward for walking this far. Not only could she give them all that they wanted and more she was the most beautiful woman he'd seen in a long time. That made this even better.
"Do you have any children?" the officer asked, Iz'phal slightly perplexed by the question but she answered, still unaware of the danger she was in as she turned fully to face him.
"I had a daughter sir, but she died…Sorry if you want to speak with her" Iz'phal said sadly as she answered his next question, wondering why they were so interested in her personal life and were not stating their business on her land.
"Where is your good husband?" the Imperial officer almost sneered but he needed to lull her into a false sense of security, to make her get close to him so he kept his tone reasonable.
"He's at the local fair sir…" Iz'phal answered honestly but slightly stunned when he stalked towards her, a strange group of people walking onto her land and now invading her space, this was very vexing. "Can I help you sir?" Iz'phal asked confusion lacing her tone, the kind edge now gone from her voice as she thought something wasn't right. His voice was a seductive purr, like a manca cat who needed its mate.
"You can do me a very great favour my dear…" the officer said slyly as she backed away from him slowly "and it will please you too…" She knew instantly what he intended to do as the soldier dressed in black grabbed her by the neck. Iz'phal stifled a cry of pain as he almost forced her to kneel at his feet but got out a shocked "no!" between her lips and clutched at his arm trying to pry his hand off her neck. She saw his eyes, suddenly clouded over with hatred as she spied the other three men behind him and knew they were all in this together. They all wanted a piece of her. "Do you know who I am girl?" he leered down at her, his seductive whisper rattling her head like a beast wanting to break open its cage as they were now face to face. Iz'phal now truly terrified, eyes birthed fear as she tried to fight his strength "I am an officer of the Imperial army, I serve the Emperor. I am a man of honour and can have whatever I want, when I want…So I ask you to give me what me and my men desire then we shall be on our way…" The officer shot the truth into her heart as Iz'phal looked into his expressionless eyes, pleading with him, just wanted him to stop hurting her, anything for them to leave her alone. He still held the twi'lek woman by her neck at his feet, beckoning her to come even closer to him and again she recoiled, but she tried not to panic. If they sensed panic they would all flock to her.
"If you are a man of honour like you say you are sir you would not force me against my will…You would just leave…" Iz'phal pleaded, those frightened eyes looking into his perhaps swaying his heart to turn around with his men and leave her be. She hoped her words and kind nature were enough, but they weren't as having enough of her not complying the imperial officer struck her viciously across the face with a black gloved hand, the force of the blow and leather burning her cheek as she fell to the ground. The captain would not run after her. His men would bring her to him. He was their superior and therefore deserved the first dose of pleasure he was owed. Free of his grip she picked up the hem of her dress and ran towards the house, looking behind her to see if they were on her tail but two of the officers blocked her path as she tried a different direction, this time in panic slipping over on the sandy path as she tasted grit in her mouth. They taunted her, laughing and mocking her feeble attempts of escape.
"That's it girl have a run…!"
"Where'd you think you're going?"
"Not sure that's good enough…"
Feeling like they were closing in on her again she got to her feet and was about to run but it was difficult when her legs were trembling from shock. She yelled as loud as she could for help, for anyone to save her, for her loving husband to come back but she was isolated, out in the open, no one was hear and that's why they had come here…So no one could hear her crying as they preyed on her. Before she could get any further two of the officers had cornered her and snatched her up, dragging her thrashing and screaming form to the figure of their superior as in horror she watched him loosening the belt on his trousers and knew what was coming next. All she could do was struggle, trying to get away, to prevent this horrible experience from taking place but all four of them would have their pleasures sated until there was nothing left of her.
The young man who had returned from work to find his wife in pieces, crying uncontrollably on the ground didn't know what had hit him. It was like a ton of durasteel had been dropped into his stomach and protruded him from the inside. He immediately took her inside and held her in those firm arms that always kept her safe. As he held her, tried to get her to calm down to tell him everything that had happened, rocking her back and forth in his arms she found it difficult at first. She was such a nervous wreck, shocked and drained that she just sat on the bed, cradled in his arms, sobbing against his chest not able to get any words out until in spluttered, keeling cries she told him, chest upheaving with her shaky breathing. She told him everything, how the soldiers turned up, how they caught her pinned her down, each soldier having their turn with her, their moans of pleasure louder than her screams as she was struck, raped and left to die. Crestfallen and just wanting to take the pain away he soothed her over and over, words soft and gentle, lips pressed to the crown of her head as he told her how much he loved her and that they would pay…He would make them pay. Consoling her through the rest of the day he made her a heart-warming bowl of broth with the vegetables she'd picked from the fields that morning and a mug of special brew. Making sure she was tucked into bed and in the best possible comfort he could leave her for an hour or, so he kissed her forehead gently as she smiled weakly up at him.
"I love you Riggsy…Thank you for everything…" Iz'phal sniffed feebly, tears now dry on her cheeks as he stroked her cheek with the back of his hand, those eyes that meant so much to her looking at her with all the warmth and love in the world and it did enough to heal some of the pain, he at the end of this trauma filled day was everything.
"Izzy sweetheart I'm not going anywhere. Try and get some sleep okay. I'm just popping out for a bit and I'll be back. Don't you worry none. Love you darling…" Corso said, knowing that his wife was in the best possible place after the horrible event, resting at home. Now to get revenge.
It was still light by the time the sun had descended over the hills and the four Imperial soldiers were taking a light piece of respite in the brook down the glen. The air filled with banter and manly laughing as their tunics were thrown in piles by the stream, hydrating and taking some down time. What they didn't account for was the arrival of Corso before them, his Iz'phal had told them exactly what these vermin looked like and knew these were the creeps that had done this to her. They had invaded his property, grievously harmed and abused his wife and now were laughing about it in a manly fashion like it was acceptable. It made his blood boil.
"You!" Corso snapped coldly as the officer's all turned their heads to engage the enraged voice as the imperial captain, not needed to don his shirt strode up to him, to Corso's disgust he was still smiling, showing teeth.
"Yes and how can I help you?" the captain sneered, turning a knowing look to his men who burst out laughing, acting like boys in the water, thinking the whole matter was one big joke, that they could do whatever they wanted and whenever.
"Do you know why I'm here? My wife is scared to death to even walk herself because of criminals like you. I know what you've done!" Corso snarled, tempted to shoot him down then and there but he stood there, fists clenching in rage, seething from head to toe, not giving an inch of ground.
"Oh the girl…Yes a live wire that one. She put up a good fight. She obviously gets her strength from you…" the captain chuckled as having enough out of his mouth he attempted to knock his teeth out, but the officer saw the assault coming and caught his wrist, bringing it harmlessly down to his side. Corso wrenched his arm away from the officer and glowered at them all in disgust.
"I'm going to the republic authorities and I will have justice for my wife, one way or the other. You won't get away with this. None of you will, you pieces of Imperial filth!" Corso threatened, red rage boiling inside his head, his gut, every fibre of his being feeling like a fire blossoming into an inferno as the officer looked him full square in the face and puffed out muscled chest, standing to his full height, glaring.
"You can't threaten me young man. I am a member of the Imperial army and stand above you and your kind. And I rather not trouble the authorities, matters like this take a lifetime to proceed through the courts…I will however offer you something…" the captain intoned softly as he reached into his trouser pocked and pulled out what looked like two gambling chips. He held them in the palm of his hand in front of Corso's eyes, as if taunting him like a child with candy. "These here are arodium gambling chips. Crystal clean and won them fair and square. Dantooine polished and Kashyyk crafted. Rare and worth at least I say a thousand credits each. Why not accept both, enough to buy a flock of nerfherders and another piece of land and forget about the whole matter?" The officer suggested, holding up the two rare gambling chips in front of Corso's eyeline as a small meagre part of him considered it, enough money to expand their land and business but then the love of his life would not have justice and she would be miserable, traumatised forever by the horrific event and he would never be able to live with himself if he neglected what she'd been through. He would much rather be poor, starving and have nothing than lose her. She was his everything and no amount of money would sway him from getting justice for her.
"I think not…The shame would still be there, in my wife's eyes. I could never look her straight in the eyes again. She deserves better. She deserves justice and I will make you animals pay. I will be going to the republic authorities and their justice will be better than yours…I'll see you'll all do lengthy time in Republic prison!" Corso snarled as he turned on his heel without another word and strode away but before the crime could be revealed to anyone else the captain had grabbed his blaster and nailed three well aimed bolts in the back of his skull killing him instantly…The officer smirked at the dead corpse of the man before him and turned to his men who just shrugged their shoulders and continued their antics.
Iz'phal sat bolt upright in bed, breath high in her chest, sweat beading her brow, panting. What was that all about? Could it be that she had just dreamed of an event in the future? Who was the man in her dream she seemingly loved called Corso? Who were those horrible men? What had happened? Wasn't she supposed to be going to the races with Alexia? Suddenly realising she had to be somewhere and that she had taken a mid-morning nap she jumped from her bed and to her holo receiver which read ten missed calls and four messages. Horrified and heart pounding Iz'phal clicked the number to dial back and was about to curse herself for letting her best friend down when a knock sounded at her door, dashing down the stairs and swinging it open to find the dark blue skinned twi'lek standing there, a big grin on his face, as he flung his arms around her not giving her a chance to say anything.
"Izzy girl hurry up. I told you we leave at 12 and we're going to be late…Hey what's up?" the male twi'lek asked seeing the less than happy demeanour of his friend and knew something was wrong. Iz'phal let out a deep breath and put on a brave face, face taking on colour.
"Just had an awful dream Al…It was horrible…" Iz'phal sniffed as he held her until her mood was better before she dashed upstairs to pull on an outfit. Five minutes later Iz'phal dashed down the stairs and locked the door, her face full of colour, blue skin practically glowing, a radiant smile lighting up her face as she wore sleek black trousers and a revealing lacy shirt, beautiful lekku swinging down her back. For a moment Alexia was too stunned to speak, just transfixed at the woman before him before he returned the smile and took her arm.
"The Boonta Eve podrace is one of the most famous races. I win hundreds studying the right odds for the day. You up for a little bet?" Alexia asked, seeing Iz'phal beam happily as they caught a sky cab to the race track, Iz'phal being handed her ticket for the racer ring and track seats as she couldn't contain her excitement. True she had stopped playing sabacc for a while, but she still hadn't lost her gambling streak and was determined to win a couple of hundred from the day.
"Course Al, I'm up for a flutter every now and again. Anyway let's get there I can't wait to see the models of speeders they have!" Iz'phal chimed excitedly as she had always dreamed of possessing her own land speeder now she had the money, just needed to see them modelled for speed and efficiency before she made her purchase. The two best friends fell into many topics of conversation before they hit the race track.
Iz'phal had, had a great day. She had a bulging pouch on her hip from her winnings, taking all the receipts with her. There had been a total of twenty different races and Iz'phal had at least won odds on fifteen of them. She grinned from ear to ear as she hung off his arm, wearing all kinds of racing memorabilia and a Sillika t-shirt, one of the favourite racers of the day as she took off the replica racing goggles which she'd placed over her eyes and giggled with happiness, like a girl on her eighteenth birthday.
"This has been the best day ever! We won us a ton of money and I got to see my inspiration Elsa Gena race! I'm told you that nautilan racers are the best!" Iz'phal smiled broadly as Alexia swung his gaze to her, glad to see her so happy as she tightened her grip on his arm.
"So glad you had a good time Iz. I come to these races every year and they get better and better. Tell you what, that Sullustan wasn't far behind though. It was a close finish" Alexia harped competitively as he too had won his fair share of money, needing to cash in his tickets to receive his credits, having won himself a few hundred as well. The sun was setting for the evening and a warm breeze was in the air, a mild night was a nice prospect.
"Thank you so much for inviting me. I've had a great day!" The blue skinned twi'lek girl joy beaming in her dark brown eyes as Alexia returned the happy expression before they went to check out the last of the souvenir stands before they closed for the day.
"Was my pleasure Iz. Besides it's your birthday soon and I wanted to treat you. What kind of a best friend would I be if I didn't?" Alexia slipped an arm around her waist thinking instantly that was too forward, but she laughed at the gesture, smile widening, snugging her head against his chest.
"You are so sweet Al, thank you. It's been perfect. We gonna get a cab back?" Iz'phal asked, Alexia nodding as he wanted to plan this carefully. For the past couple of month he had wanted to pluck up the courage to ask Iz'phal out properly, to ask her to be his girl but he had been afraid of asking her too early. He was waiting for the appropriate moment to ask her. She meant a lot to him and he was finding himself falling in love with her. It seemed all those years ago when he watched her play sabacc at the Cantinna when she was fourteen and to be honest it was love at first sight. Those charming eyes and pretty face had hooked him from the moment he'd met her, and he'd never really been able to erase her face at night. She was young, and he'd needed to keep her safe but now it was clear what he needed to say. He had not had a partner in sometime and he was not sure if a girl like Iz'phal would ever come along again. He was about to ask her where she wanted to go to next when he was surprised at her response, not expecting it from her. "Would you like to come back to mine. I have some Corellian whiskey that needs drinking and I can't do it on my own. Can wind down for the evening. Fancy it?" Iz'phal asked, hoping that wasn't too forward as Alexia showed his teeth in a friendly smile, clasping a hand fondly onto her shoulder.
"I'd love to Izzy thank you. Sounds perfect" Alexia confirmed the evenings plans as they called another sky cab to set off home, Alexia collecting his last credits for the night.
As the twi'lek pair took the lift to the fortieth floor of the apartment, Alexia stared at the lovely view around him, Coruscant skylights and mid-air traffic buzzing around him, a myriad of sounds and sights and the lift doors opened, and they stepped into the spacious room. He'd been back to hers a couple of times before but tonight seemed different, like he was seeing it for the first time.
"Every time I come here I kept forgetting how lovely your home is. It's amazing. See you have the taste for Ryloth art" Alexia voiced his enthusiasm as he admired the bronze statues of the twi'lek protectors again and the woven rugs on the floor, the spacious white and red seating and beautiful lighting telling him that she had made a name for herself in the banking world and that her life was on the up. It was wonderful to see his best friend doing so well but perhaps they could share that together.
"Yeah I do love it. You are right. I need to know more about my people and where I come from. It's important…" Iz'phal agreed as she walked over to the drinks cabinet and pulled out two small glasses, pouring two well measure portions of Corellian whiskey into them as she slumped on the large white sofa next to Alexia and planted the drink in his hand. He thanked her before taking a sip, the liquor warming his throat as he swirled the contents, admiring the body of the alcohol.
"Good vintage Iz, what is this stuff?" Alexia asked as Iz'phal took a sip from her glass, forgetting how good this bottle was.
"Oh this…" said Iz'phal quirking him a sweet smile as she crossed one leg over the other knee "This is a particular vintage, but it's made and corked somewhere in Nar Shaddaa I think. I don't know for sure…" She gave a full account of what she knew as Alexia took another gulp from his glass before engaging her eyes and knew he had to say it now, otherwise he would lose all confidence and never say it. Iz'phal was slightly surprised when he took her hand in his and shuffled closer to her, but she welcomed his company, a light blush tinging her cheeks. "Aww Al you are sweet. Thanks so much for always being there, for always being my best friend. You are the one person I can always rely on, who always turns up to my door when I'm sad and cheers me up, a person who I can laugh with all the time…It's a lovely friendship and I'm very lucky…" Iz'phal spoke her mind as the two clinked glasses and took sips from their drinks before he put his glass down on the table and slipped his hand in hers, Iz'phal's blush intensifying as she smiled shyly and lowered her head but he coaxed her chin up so that their eyes could meet.
"I'm the one who's lucky Iz. You came into my life and I've never been able to forget you. You are the most incredible woman I've ever met, and I want to ask you something…" the dark blue skinned twi'lek asked her permission as she nodded, placing his lips to the crown of her head, murmuring sweetly on her skin. Iz'phal's heart went to a light and lovely place as she closed her eyes, enjoying the closeness with him, admitting to herself she treasured him, treasured him a lot. Maybe it's time for us to take things to the next stage…She thought as he spoke again, but his words made her heart summersault with happiness in her chest as she listened in an enraptured trance. This was her first chance to be with someone who meant it, someone who loved her, not someone who paid her credits for a night and then left her in the morning. In her childhood Iz'phal had given herself to a lot of men and just got used to the feeling of being rejected, being alone, not attaching herself to people but this was different. Those days were behind her. She had someone that not only treated her like a princess but who loved her deep down and she knew it. "Iz you may think me stupid, but I wondered when I'd have a girl of my own, time to stop wondering the galaxy on my own. I want you with me Izzy…My Izzy…I love you Iz and I always have…I ain't letting you go…" Alexia got his feelings into the open as Iz'phal elated heart kept dancing in her chest as she snuggled close to him, tightening her hand in his. She had to be bold and make a move, otherwise she would never have a meaningful relationship in her life. This was the first time a man had ever truly cared for her and she'd be damned if she lost that. She cared a lot for him, very much.
"Be your girl? You know what Al I'd thought you'd never ask…" Iz'phal purred sweetly as knowing she was comfortable with their closeness he murmured against her cheek, expressive eyes locking with hers.
"I'll be real gentle Iz, promise…I'll be with you always Iz…Always…" his loving words the most meaningful and truthful she'd ever heard, no lies, no deception to try and gain her physically. Just trying to process what was happening Iz'phal's head dizzy with happiness as she slotted her arms around his neck, pulling herself closer until he could feel the warmth of her breath on his neck. The glasses of whiskey now completely forgotten about he was about to ask her if she was comfortable with the situation but to his surprise she took the lead, placing her lips to his, kissing him with fervour. He returned the gesture, lost in the softness of her touch, her mouth peppering his neck and chin with kisses as he broke away from her slightly to look deep into her eyes and knew this was what she wanted, what he wanted to. "You know when twi'leks mate it's a special bond and shouldn't be broken…It's a process which means much to us and when we're both ready I'd be honoured to share it with you…" Alexia made his desire clear to her but Iz'phal was ready. She had been waiting for this moment, for a man she loved to state his mind and she wasn't going to hold back now. Lowering himself to his forearms, legs either side of her hips as his touch excited her, made her yearn for his affection, his attention and for it to mean something.
"I'm sure it is my Al, I'm sure it feels wonderful…I'm more than willing to find out…I love you, lots and lots…" Iz'phal breathed softly against his neck, his hands taking hold of her hips as he paid attention to her neckline and down to her shoulder, Iz'phal squirming in pleasure underneath his strong frame as she stroked down the back of his head, massaging his lekku with her fingertips. After a pleasant fifteen minutes of kissing and cuddling Iz'phal wanted to advance further, her heart beat quickening in anticipation but this was different. Not just the anticipation of sex and pleasure but what it would be like with someone who loved her, someone who wanted to be with her, not just for it to be a quick moment. Within moments he'd carried her to the bed, laying her down with care as he pulled his shirt over his head, just wanting her hands on him again. Her top was soon unbuttoned and thrown into a pile on the floor as she writhed playfully under his touch, the warmth and softness of his hands down her chest and hips sent her to a blissful place, not wanting the sensation to stop. As he picked up her lips again in a deep kiss she let a little moan escape her as a wonderful feeling circulated round her body like electricity. Their eyes met, and it was mutual from both sides as the feeling of his skin on hers was sending her over the edge, his toned arms and chest, the shapely nature of his curves and muscles. She wanted him like so many other men in her life but now not just because she was physically attracted to him, but because she loved him. Loved him very much. To have a man to wake up beside in the morning and not just an empty bed, to have someone special in her life, someone like him made all the hell she'd gone through worthwhile. All the pain she'd had in her life, the lonely nights, the hurt, Skavak, the countless dangers all vanished into thin air as she next wave of pleasure hit her. Even though she had not been perfect…Now was time for a new chapter in her life. Her breathing high and fast in her chest as they moved rhythmically together, Iz'phal letting him take the lead, surfacing from kisses on the odd occasion to murmur a word or his name. She grabbed him by the lekku, coaxing words in his ear, words that made him realise that she hadn't lost her wild side. She was still that audacious, adventurous girl who was never afraid to try new things and he never wanted her to lose that.
"Al…" Iz'phal breathed in between gasps of pleasure that she couldn't restrain "Don't stop…" she managed to say as she guessed he knew how to please a woman, how to excite them because he did as she said, moving faster against her, his pleasure filled moans against her neck making her glad he was enjoying the experience: That she could be just as good as him. After another half an hour Iz'phal's head was spinning, the room almost dissolving around her in stars as the climatic sensation was something that she wanted to last forever as she clawed at his back, her light blue skin on his dark skin breathing hard. He collapsed into her arms from the exertion, his breathing strong in his chest as he smiled lovingly down at her, dark eyes hypnotising her as she still moved against him, kissing him softly.
"I haven't been with a girl in so long I've forgotten what it feels like…You are an amazing woman Izzy, I can't believe how lucky I am…Thank you…" Alexia hummed quietly against the crown of her head as the couple still had a fondle and cuddles before Iz'phal, forgetting how tired this experience could make you fell asleep in his arms, snuggling close to him. She knew one thing now. He would be the only man she'd ever show affection for, the only one who deserved it, because they were together now, because she had his heart. Realising the fatigue begin to hit home to his own body and pulled the covers over them as he slotted his arms around her waist, kissing her neck bottom to top until his own eyes drooped and he fell asleep, his girl in his arms.
Having slept soundly Iz'phal woke from her deep slumber, patterned lekku hanging down her back. She wriggled into a more comfortable position and then realised something. She was a woman who had someone, he had meant it. Unlike the other men who preyed on her in her childhood when she was prowling the streets the other side of the bed contained his sleeping figure, an arm still hooked over her shoulder. He stayed…Iz'phal thought then a big smile crossed her face as she drifted to and from sleep. Why was she so surprised? He was an honest, caring individual who had said he loved her. He wanted to be with her, wanted to stay. Therefore since they'd slept together he'd be with her, sleep by her side and cuddle her, show her affection, not just up and leave her like the others…He was completely different. Completely in awe of what being in love felt like, what it meant to have someone mean every word, just to be honest made her the happiest girl in the galaxy as she knew she'd struck gold. She felt him stir next to her as she turned her face to gaze into his eyes swimming back at her.
"Morning sweetheart…" Alexia purred warmly as she gushed bright red, accepting a lingering kiss on her forehead as she smiled back at him. That was the first time someone had called her sweetheart but in a loving way, not just for cat calling purposes.
"Morning to you too…" Iz'phal replied as she stretched her legs under the covers but just ended up giggling as he pulled her back, gazing deep into her eyes, lips lowering to her neck as she felt a small nip at her collarbone and her smile widened.
"Al, stop it…" Iz'phal giggled as he continued to trail his lips up her neck, her stomach rumbled, and she realised she was hungry. Even though she was enjoying the moment and was in bliss with his company they needed to eat something. "Fancy some breakfast?" Iz'phal asked kindly as he looked endearingly into her eyes, his lips planting kisses on her cheeks.
"Oh come on Izzy girl I was having fun here!" Alexia teased as he didn't want to let her go, just wanted to hold her in his arms but realised the day had to go on, they needed to get to work. "Sounds good sweetheart…What we having?" Iz'phal glad he had thought of his stomach the same as her as she swung her legs out of bed and found a loose top and leggings.
"Never you mind Mr! It's a surprise!" Iz'phal beamed, the beauty of her face reeling him in for a second as she flurried from the room before he had time to say another word, she could have jumped for joy she was so happy. She had a lovely home, lived in a great part of the galaxy, a great job and friends and now a man who thought she was the most special thing to ever happen to him. Things could not be better as Iz'phal began to fetch the kitchen utensils and equipment to make her going to work speciality. She was sure he would love it. The delicious smell of berry mulch and freshly baked flat cakes reached his nose as Alexia got out of bed, finding his clothes scattered around the room as he sought out his girl.
"Smells good Izzy, you didn't have to do this you know…" Alexia protested as he wanted to treat her to their first breakfast together, wanted to give her everything she'd ever wanted, just to dote and be there for her but she waved her hand in dismissal bringing a stack of pancakes and two side plates of home made berry mulch to the table. She kissed him on the forehead, sitting down beside him as the two tucked into the steaming fresh breakfast before them.
"Oh come on Al, I need to chip in every now and again…Besides it's not everyday I have a guest…" Iz'phal smiled warmly as the berries reminded Alexia of his childhood, twi'lek lipeg berries, their taste reminding him of the way his mother used to cook them.
"These are delicious Izzy, perfect before having to spend the day in Mr Temax's office. Last night was perfect Iz, it meant the world to me, thank you…" Alexia's eyes full of adoration as the colour heightened again on her cheeks and he reached over the table and took her hand, the two conversing about the other night, times ahead and a long day of work ahead of them. Life for Iz'phal Trua was perfect.