As Tif's breath faded and her body shimmered into light, she found herself standing in a place beyond time.
Zen was there.
He smiled softly, his presence radiant and calm.
"You kept your promise," he said.
She stepped into his arms, tears glimmering.
"And now I'm home."
The days on Elysira passed quietly, each one a careful rhythm of care, learning, and love. Nox cradled the infant in his arms, guiding him through the basics of life, the warmth of Zen's and Tif's memory ever present in every gentle touch, every whispered word.
When it came time to name the child, Nox chose Zeff, a merging of the names of the two he had loved most, a symbol of hope born from loss.
As Zeff grew, his connection to the Force became apparent. Tiny displays of power, instinctive movements, and a calm clarity beyond his years revealed the legacy carried within him. Jedi Masters eventually approached Nox, their expressions both awe-struck and concerned.
"It's time he comes with us," one said softly.
"He should be trained in the ways of the Order."
Nox shook his head, a small smile touching his lips.
"No. His training will be mine to give. He will grow learning the lessons of Zen and Tif, the ones they would have taught him themselves. I will honor their memory in the only way I can."
Years passed. Zeff flourished under Nox's guidance, strong, compassionate, and wise beyond his years, tempered by both the light of his parents and the unwavering devotion of his guardian.
In the quiet corners of the Force, watching over the boy, two figures appeared: Zen and Tif, ethereal and luminous. They smiled at what Nox was doing, seeing their love live on, seeing the boy who carried their legacy thriving under his protection.
For the first time since their passing, peace settled across their spirits, knowing that the future, bright, strong, and true, was in good hands.
And sometimes, at night, Nox would sit beside Zeff beneath the stars. The boy would ask questions about the galaxy, about the Jedi, about the two names that shaped his own.
"Will I be a Jedi?" he asked once.
Nox smiled, weathered and warm.
"You'll be what the Force needs you to be. And what your heart allows."
The stars shimmered above them, vast and endless. And in their quiet glow, Nox still felt them, Zen and Tif. Watching. Guiding. Smiling.
The Force lay calm over Elysira, the warmth of love, sacrifice, and hope lingering, a gentle promise that even in loss, life would endure.