The Unexpected
You’re just not that interested in dating military men, nor have you ever been with an alien lover. But a chance Ascension Week encounter awakens something you didn’t know was inside. Chapter 1 of 4.
Pairing: Thrawn x f!reader
Rating: 18+
TW/CW: none (or if I’m missing something, please let me know!)
Tags: sexual tension, romance, slow burn, civilian reader, sexual fantasy, m@sturbation
Word count: 3k+
A/N: I definitely don’t consider myself a writer, but it was nice doing something creative that was so ~*self-indulgent*~. Literally just for me! This story tries to take place in universe, before Thrawn achieves the rank of Grand Admiral. No idea how long Eli and Thrawn spend on Coruscant in between missions, but it’s my fantasy and I make the rules. I started off intending to write nasty smut but ended up writing a slow burn romance lol. This is for all 12 of us who are deeply in love with Thrawn but also can’t imagine themselves serving on the Chimaera.
Part 2 ->
Chapter 1 - The Trap
There was a brief pause as you considered his invitation. You hadn’t had a night out in weeks - and it would be an opportunity to eat expensive food while rubbing elbows with prospective clients. It’d be foolish to pass on one of Ascension week’s most anticipated events.
You looked up from the studio’s washing station where you were rinsing paint brushes and scrubbing the pigment from your hands, “Sure - that sounds fun.”
Ban Pollalarm flashed you a smile as he came around to admire your work - or rather his own likeness - on the easel, “I’m honored.” You knew he’d probably never been turned down in his life and internally rolled your eyes at his feigned gratitude. He was clearly using you.
“Send me your address and I’ll pick you up,” He said distractedly. There was some silence as you put away your supplies, hopelessly trying to tidy the cluttered studio so you could go home.
“I look quite heroic, no?” he marveled, pleased with the portrait beginning to take shape. Ban was no different than the last 3 TIE pilots you’d painted: conventionally handsome, self-centered, and arrogant.
“Well I’m glad you’re happy with the progress,” you said diplomatically as you dried your hands. You made towards the door, hoping he’d understand the signal meaning his session was over, “I’ll see you tomorrow night then?”
He broke out of his trance, “Ah yes - tomorrow. See you then.” He touched your arm and flashed another smile as he said his goodbye, a move you were sure was meant to make you swoon. You smiled coyly at him, playing your part before shutting the door.
Now what the hell am I going to wear?
—
Dajmita was already preening herself in your shared refresher, fastening crystal studded cuffs to her lekku when you returned home.
“Wow you look kriffing great - like some perv’s Twi’lek fantasy. Is that what you’re wearing to the gala? I’m gonna look like bantha shit next to you.”
“Okay - first of all -“ Dajmita began, “Thank you. I’m hoping this dress will get me a one night stay on the surface if you catch my drift.” Your roommate had a steady rotation of men she liked to sample and she was always looking for new … experiences. “Secondly - does that mean you’re going too?” she realized in excitement.
“Yeah - one of my clients asked me to come as his date -“
“OOOOooOOOOh! Which one?”
“Ugh Ban Pollalarm - don’t get any ideas. I’m only there to eat free food and network. Plus he’s definitely using me. Remember Endel?“ you asked, kicking off your shoes.
“The one who asked you to be exclusive and you said no?”
“Yeah. Well Ban knows all about that and I’m sure he just wants to one-up him. They’re old academy rivals or something,” You said over your shoulder as you make your way to your room. Dajmita was still in the ‘fresher, adjusting the front of her low-cut dress to accentuate her cleavage when she asked, “What was wrong with Endel? He was really cute. And his family is kriffing rich.”
“You know how I feel about military guys. They just don’t do it for me,” you called from your room. It’d been a long time since you’d looked in this part of your closet but you hoped to find some forgotten treasure. Just as you began to get discouraged, you recognized a clump of fabric in a dark corner. It must have fallen off of the hanger.
“Aha!” It was wrinkly but you felt triumphant, holding the gown up as you emerged from your room. You rummaged through the hallway closet for a steamer, forgotten miscellanies raining down from the top shelf in a cacophony of crashing sounds as you pawed above your eye line.
“You know, for such a petite woman - you make an awful lot of noise,” Dajmita chided as she made her way towards you, picking up your mess and replacing the objects on the top shelf. “I see you found something to wear.”
“I can’t see up there - sorry I’m not a statuesque goddess such as yourself,” You say with feigned deference. “Speaking of which, is your model friend Zurla coming too?” you asked hopefully, turning on the steamer.
“Yes! We’re all going to this exclusive pre-gala dinner party...” she trailed off realizing you wouldn’t be able to come with her group. “Sorry - my date had to call in a lot of favors to get these invites and I didn’t think you were going.”
You’re disappointed that you’d have to arrive with Ban alone, but you weren’t offended. “No worries - I’ll see you at the gala and we can hang out there. I know you don’t want to miss my terrible drunk dancing.”
Dajmita snorted, “Absolutely not.”
—
You had only been to the Alisandre Hotel a few times to meet with potential clients. You’d always admired its architecture, but tonight it was an especially glorious vision. Its grand facade was lit by spotlights shining upwards against its columns, highlighting the Imperial banners draped from above. A who’s-who of Coruscanti elite ascended the stairs in elegant gowns and ceremonial garb representing the diversity of planets across the Empire. The most famous attendees were followed closely by the press corp, who were vying to snap glamorous holos for their publications.
Inside, an alien band played swanky music as guests milled about, sampling delicacies passed by waitdroids, sipping fine wines and alcohols. It was glamorous.
“What do you want to drink?” Ban asked distractedly, scanning the grand room (for Endel you guessed). He had opted to wear his dress uniform which you originally thought to be a status play, but judging by the other uniforms dotted throughout the room, it seemed to be an appropriate choice for military attendees.
“An Alderaanian wine would be great,” you selected something you hoped would be difficult to find. Ban nodded, barely acknowledging your request as he left your side. You scanned the room for any sign of Dajmita and her group. There weren’t a lot of non-humans at these elite events, so you thought it shouldn’t be hard to spot her. Your eyes darted methodically from person to person until you spotted someone unexpected.
—
Eli Vanto had been dreading the Imperial Gala for days. He certainly didn’t feel welcome among the elite, Core World guests, who somehow knew he was below their station - a Wild Space yokel. His alien companion certainly didn’t elevate his status.
Thrawn. It’s not that Eli resented him for dragging him here...Well maybe there was some resentment. He was a political idiot, so he wasn’t even sure what Thrwan was hoping to get out of the experience.
“Eli Vanto?” Startled, Eli whipped around to see you, his eyes widening in recognition, “[Y/N]?”
“Oh my god what are you doing here?” you embraced him, a decidedly out-of-place gesture amongst the polite company.
“I was just about to ask the same thing -“ he stopped, realizing his manners. “Ah, [Y/N], this is Admiral Thrawn. I’m ah - his translator?” He wasn’t sure how to explain.
For the first time, you noticed Eli’s companion and you’re taken aback by his striking features. Your heart began to beat a little faster and you felt heat rising to your cheeks as you realized how attracted you were to him. His facial ridges and blue skin immediately marked him as alien, which was what surprised you the most - you had never been with a non-human before. And what’s more - his uniform marked him as serviceman of the Imperial Navy. Why were you so drawn to him?
Eli, misreading your awkward silence quickly added, “He’s Chiss ... if you hadn’t figured that out already. Turns out they’re real.”
“Oh!” you snapped back to reality - you were too distracted and had not made the connection. Thrawn raised an eyebrow, “I take it you’ve also heard Lieutenant Commander Vanto’s stories of my people?”
“Eli’s stories?” you asked incredulously, but you were cut off.
“There you are!” Ban approached, handing you a drink. “It took forever to find a droid carrying Alderaanian wine and when I came back you were gone.” He suddenly noticed Thrawn and Eli, “Who are these guys?”
You opened your mouth to speak but before you could make the introductions, Ban finally spotted Endel behind the duo and called out to him. You looked back at Eli apologetically and mouthed “I’ll be back” as you’re pulled away.
I kriffing knew it. Ban had managed to snake his arm around your waist just in time to greet his friend. You gave Endel a polite smile, “It’s nice to see you again.” He was clearly caught off guard by your presence, “It’s good to see you too.” He gave you once-over, “You look...stunning,” he managed to stammer out.
Ban could barely hide his satisfaction. He feigned surprise, “Oh I didn’t realize you two knew each other.” It took all you had not to roll your eyes. Where the hell is Dajmita?
—
“I’m pleased you’ve begun to relax, Lieutenant Commander. I was under the impression people from your home planet, Lysatra, were a rarity in Coruscant.” Eli shot Thrawn a look. “How did you know she was from Lysatra?” Eli knew he shouldn’t be surprised by Thrawn’s observational skill by now, but he still appreciated being coached through the logic.
“You said yourself that you believed to have no personal connections on Coruscant. Your demonstrated familiarity with a civilian could only mean your relationship was formed on Lysatra. My suspicions were confirmed when she rejected my supposition that you were the originator of Chiss legend.“
“That’s a pretty big conclusion you’ve jumped to. You’re right, but she could have been from any other Wild Space world,” Eli pointed out.
“Are you close to anyone from other Wild Space worlds?” Thrawn countered.
“...No. Fine I see your point,” Eli resigned. “Well I’m glad she’s here. I didn’t expect to know anyone at this party.”
Thrawn watched you from across the ballroom. He noticed the rust color of your gown complemented your tan skin, its bias cut loosely hugging your petite frame and accentuating your rear. He could see your date’s hand on the small of your back, your body rigid. “I take it you aren’t acquainted with her...companion,” He asked, turning back to Eli.
“No, but he seems like a real jerk. I can’t imagine what she’s doing with him.”
Thrawn turned his attention back to you. He watched as you flagged down another group of three: a green skinned Twi’lek woman, a man, and a tall slender blonde with an ample bust.
“And what was your relationship with her?”
Eli blushed, “Well she used to babysit me sometimes when our parents would go out. I - I had a small crush on her when I was 9...”
“But that’s all.” he added quickly.
“I see.” Thrawn’s attention was still focused over Eli’s shoulder. He watched the blonde and your date leave together while you were in the refresher. “Interesting,” he said, “I believe your friend will be returning to us shortly.”
—
From the second floor balcony, you could see Ban leading Zurla to a more intimate area of the ballroom. Dajmita had already made her way to the dance floor, doing her best to seduce her date. Finally - you’re free to do what you wanted.
You easily found Eli again and made your way towards him, awkwardly juggling three glasses. “You two need to loosen up!” You handed each of them a drink.
“You’re not angry,” Thrawn observed, taking the wine from your hand.
“Angry?” you were confused.
“I observed your date leaving with another woman,” he said matter-of-factly.
“Oh! I planned that,” you take a sip of the rich blue liquid, “I’m really here to eat free food and find new clients. Zurla is my roommate’s friend and she’s exactly his type. I figured he was gross enough to ditch me when he met her. I made sure she’d be here.”
Thrawn seemed impressed. At least, that’s what you thought from the small change of his expression. “Clients?” he asked.
“I’m a portrait artist. These - “ you gestured at the crowd around you, “are the types of people who can afford my services.”
Thrawn’s red eyes widened slightly with interest. You found yourself surprised to be secretly pleased with his his approval. “Are your works on display? I’d be interested in studying them...with your guidance.” Did he add that suggestively? you wondered, your heart beginning to race. Or was it just wishful thinking? You did your best to remain calm.
“Most of my professional works are hung in private homes, but you’re welcome to view my personal projects at my studio after hours. Will you still be on Coruscant tomorrow?” You thought about it briefly, feeling your sex begin to throb as you wondered if he’d maintain his reserved dignity while penetrating you. It’d been awhile since your last sexual encounter. Just go for it. Who cares that he’s in the Imperial Navy? This is your opportunity for some non-committal fun. You gather your courage.
Smiling coyly, you added, “...I’d also be happy to take you there tonight if you’d like. I’m sure you’ll be busy at tomorrow evening’s celebrations.” You hoped you were being obvious enough. Eli shifted uncomfortably realizing you had forgotten his presence.
Thrawn considered your invitation, noticing the gentle outline of your hardening nipples through the thin crepe fabric of your dress. He had actively avoided temptations of the flesh and of the heart in pursuit of his larger military goals, however he was finding it difficult denying his physical needs tonight. After all, he wanted an opportunity to study the current art on Coruscant, he reasoned with himself, knowing all too well this was only a feeble excuse. And perhaps he misunderstood your intentions. He admitted he still knew very little of human customs outside of military situations. Against his better judgement, he agreed to accompany you.
Eli cleared his throat softly. Thrawn turned to acknowledge him, his stoicism did not betray his sinful thoughts. “Lieutenant Commander Vanto, would you care to join us?” You frowned slightly.
Eli, knowing better than to cock-block the admiral, excused himself for the evening. “I’m actually really tired,” he yawned. “I’m going back to my quarters to get a good night’s sleep. I’ll see you tomorrow.”
You shot him a look of gratitude, “Well it was really good seeing you again, Eli. Let’s catch up soon. Lunch tomorrow?” Eli relaxed, remembering he was glad to have a friend on Coruscant. “Yeah. Can you transmit the time and location to me?”
“Will do. Good night.”
—
The studio lights flickered on as you let yourself in, Thrawn following close behind. He marveled at the canvases of works-in-progress lining the perimeter of the walls.
“Those are portrait commissions,” you called over your shoulder as you opened and closed wide, shallow drawers in search of other work. “I’ll dig up some personal stuff.”
Thrawn examined the portraits, all in various stages of completion. You selected a few pieces from the drawers and laid them out on your large work table. Realizing his focus on your unfinished work was still unbroken, you joined him at the northern wall.
“Very interesting,” he mumbled, his hand resting on his chin in thought.
You break the silence, “It’s not often I meet members of the military who are interested in art.”
“It’s a shame…The Empire would benefit greatly if our military leaders could see the connection between art and war,” he mused, eyes still transfixed on the canvas before him.
“I suppose it only makes sense to explore all facets of an opponent’s culture in order to understand their tactics,” you responded off-handedly.
Thrawn’s eyes softened as he turned to you, surprised at your understanding. “Yes...exactly,” He breathed. You returned his gaze, but your expression was incredulous, “So you study art in order to defeat your enemies?” He nodded and you frowned. “I can’t say I love that usage...I’m somewhat of a pacifist,” you admitted reluctantly.
He turned back toward the painting, “War is an inevitability. There are great evils just beyond the reach of this Empire. By studying even a limited selection of a culture’s art, I am able to determine the most effective tactics and minimize...unnecessary death.”
“I’m not so sure you can fully draw reliable conclusions from a culture’s art without understanding the context of their history and of the artist’s own political positions,” you countered. You did not expect this evening to include debate and thoughtful discussion. This topic was intriguing, but perhaps there would be another time to delve into such conversations when your sex wasn’t throbbing.
Changing the subject, you offered to look at the pieces you’ve laid out on the table, “Would you like to see my other work?”
“Yes. I suppose that would be an effective use of our time,” he agreed. One of the straps from your gown slipped from your shoulder and he reached out gently to reposition it, accidentally brushing his hand against your skin. You gasped involuntarily and glanced sideways at him. He looked away, busying himself with your art.
“I also have holos of some bigger pieces,” you offered, switching on the device to display the paintings.
He didn’t speak for some time as you let him peruse your catalogue. Thrawn saw a lock of hair fall out of place, framing your face. Out of the side of his eye he was able to appreciate the fullness of your lips and the soft slopes of your décolletage, the neckline of your gown plunging perilously low in between your shallow breasts. His mind began to wonder about how soft the skin of your inner thighs must be... He flicked his attention back to the holos just as you turned to look at his face. You could see his jaw clenched tightly in concentration. He flipped thoughtfully through a few more pieces.
Finally he stopped, “How big is this one? Is it for sale?” Your mouth opened wordlessly, more than a little surprised. You certainly didn’t expect to sell any art tonight.
“Ah- uhm - yes. It’s 1.5 by 2 meters - You really don’t have to.”
“My desire for your work is not born out of pity, if that is your concern,” he said, reading your mind. “I did not bring credits with me today but I can pay when you come to install it.”
“Um..yes. O-ok,” You managed. He turned off the holo, suddenly eager to leave. “I will transmit delivery instructions to you tomorrow,” he said, making his way toward the door, “Good night.”
He left and you stood, dumbstruck in the middle of your studio.
—
Outwardly, Thrawn appeared in full control of himself, his steps moving at a rhythm only slightly faster than his usual pace. Internally, his characteristically organized mind was in chaos.
He knew he shouldn’t have come with you. It was foolish to test his resolve, his commitment to abstinence - to his ambitions. Yet he was almost unable to wait for his apartment front door to shut before desperately undoing his pants, freeing his engorged cock already wet with precum.
He closed his eyes and bit back a moan as he pumped his member, remembering your gown’s strap slipping from your shoulder. Your name stammered from his lips as he desperately wished he had ripped it from your body instead of returning it to its proper place. In his mind’s eye, he saw you bent over the table with your skirt bunched up over your ass, begging to be dominated. And he imagined the tightness of your cunt as he forced his sex into your entry, this final image taking hold of his entire body as he seized pleasurably, spilling his seed, allowing himself to fall forward, a pathetic crumpled mess of limbs and semen.
Part 2 ->
---
A/N - Well if you made it this far - thank you! This is my first time writing anything resembling smut, so hopefully that wasn’t too cringey. The whole draft is finished so...I’ll definitely post the whole thing pretty quickly.
