Star Wars - Tales from the Outer Rim

"Investigating the Past"
By Quistis Knox

Location: Aboard the FireFly during the trip to
Tae'Remok System.
Date: Lythe 10, 4 ABY

***

Quistis walked through the corridors of her ship. She was the only aboard the ship, so she had to check everything by herself.

Recently she had problems in one of the engines, but she easily fixed it with the help of technicians of the Ix Technologies where her friend Evan Akesha was the President. She even thought to get a droid to help her aboard the ship, but then she got something much better. An Artificial Intelligence aboard the ship. It wasn't much but at least the AI helped her if there was anything wrong or anything to be adjusted or even to help her to investigate the datapads given by Akesha.

Quistis had forever shown that Akesha could trust her, since the mission where they first met. She even trusted Quistis to be her bodyguard. For some time now Akesha and Quistis had investigated Akesha's mother and everything behind her assassination. Of course everything pointed to a suicide, but Akesha didn't believe that and Quistis also was starting to be suspicious since the investigator said that he saw the video file that contained the suicide, but amazingly the file and the investigator disappeared without a trace.

The last time that she investigated this was over two to three months; she had to do this in a slow way and a patient one since the Triumvirate or the people involved were inside B.I.G. She didn't want to create suspicion or to alarm the assassins. Anyway she knew what had to be done now and by Gods she was going to do it.

She walked back to the cockpit. The door opened and she saw a bright blue light sign that the FireFly was still in Hyperspace. She looked to some readings on the cockpit and to see if everything was normal.

"Fly, how many hours left until we arrive at Tae'Karada?" Quistis said as she sat on the her chair, looking to other readings.

"Twelve standard hours," a mechanical voice said.

"Good. It seems that we won two hours in our flight. Those calculations you gave me were like a short cut. Thanks," Quistis said as she sat back and relaxed.

Quistis closed her eyes and tried to relax but it seemed that she couldn't. She never did sleep after the hours of sleeping. Quistis opened her eyes and looked to the seat next to see where her trench coat was. She stared for a few minutes as the wheels of her head were moving.

She sat forwards and grabbed her trench coat and took out the Datapad that was in her right inside pocket.

"Fly, activate the video wall on the leisure room of the ship and prepare to transfer the data to you," Quistis said as she got up and walked out of the cockpit. She didn't see if Fly did it, because the AI did everything she asked.

She entered the leisure room. She looked to the sides and quickly directed her self to a video wall that was there. She had the datapad in her left hand and sat on the chair in front of the video wall.

She opened a small glass compartment that had a small entrance, where she put the datapad. "Open files, Fly."

The video wall turned on to blackish color. "Processing..." Fly said as it took a few seconds to read. "There is one file on the datapad."

"Open it and run it. Search for any anomalies," Quistis ordered as she pushed the chair away from the controls.

Quistis looked to the video wall as an image was one of the security cameras outside a room. The image maintained the same for several minutes, but suddenly a woman appeared just outside the room. It was visible that it was Akesha's mother and she was nervous about something. She constantly looked everywhere except the camera. Then suddenly a man appeared inside the room and stood at the entrance where his face was covered by darkness. The light was not much there and that made it possible that it may be hidden by the lack of light.

"Mr. Zero, is everything in order?" Akesha's mother asked.

"Yes it is. What you request is in order and ready when you are," Mr. Zero said without moving his head out of the shadow that hid his face.

"Good, everything is going as I plan." Akesha's mother gave a sarcastic smile.

Then as she turned her back to Mr. Zero, Quistis saw the man pulling out a blaster and firing against Akesha's mother. The body of Akesha's mother spun falling to the floor. Quistis saw something was not right.

"Fly, stop! Rewind the file to 15 seconds and play in slow motion." Quistis ordered, because she picked up something not right on what she saw.

Fly played the file in slow motion where Akesha's mother was, showing the back. She saw in her face an expression of scariness and said something but there was no voice.

"Stop. Focus on her and play it in slower way."

Quistis looked to another small screen next to the video wall where Quistis tried to read her lips. As the frame passed slowly Quistis was able to read... You!.

Quistis didn't understand why she said that if she was shot from behind. Was there someone also there and made her say that? And why didn't the camera pick up the word You if it picked up the rest of the conversation?

Something didn't fit here, she was shot from behind by the man who she trusted and when she turned her back to Mr. Zero saw someone that she realized that her life was in danger, but whom?

"I'm picking up an anomaly on the file," the mechanical voice said.

"Show me," Quistis aid as a second image appeared on the bottom of the other that she used to analyze what Akesha's mother was saying.

Fly showed as Quistis looked carefully to the image and saw on the bottom left of Mr. Zero's foot a blackness appearing. She quickly raised both eyebrows in admiration. How could that happen? Quistis asked herself, but what was strange was the fact that above that blackness and Mr. Zero the image remained the light that came from the room behind Mr. Zero.

"Fly use your internal system and see if you find anomalies on the texture of the video," Quistis said as she looked to the image again but she couldn't figure out what was the cause of the blackness. Now there was a chance that this file was changed. If so there was only two choices. Or this was made by a professional and that concluded that she had to find someone that was an expert in hacking. Or if this was made quickly and forgot to erase that blank spot or to fill it. Maybe, just maybe...there was some texture failures on the image and saying that can show her that someone didn't want to find the rest of the conversation, which meant that she had to find the hacker after all, but someone that she could trust someone that maintained his or her word.

"Analysis complete. Texture failure in several spots of the image and maintains for the entire file. Possibility that the original file is behind this fake is forty percent," Fly said.

"Thank you, Fly," Quistis said, as she got up from her chair and looked every where, but she was thinking.

Whatever was responsible for Akesha's mother had high connection and a lot of money. Probably someone hired by triumvirate to kill Akesha's mother, but why? Why did they do all this work? They can snap their fingers and someone disappears without a trace, no one could find them even if someone hired the best Bounty Hunter on the case to find them, Quistis thought.

This was getting interesting...dangerous, but interesting. There was a lot behind this that Quistis and Akesha predicted. Probably Akesha's mother was involved with dangerous people... the Triumvirate was constituted by dangerous people. To negotiate with the most notorious Hutts in this Galaxy had to have balls. But all this time she never, ever saw a Hutt to double cross the Triumvirate. Were they scared? Or did the Triumvirate have so much power that not even the notorious Hutts had the guts to face them. Either way their power was expanding, and she knew not even an inch of their power.

"Fly turn it off. I'm tired and I'm getting sleepy. Thanks for your assistance," Quistis said as she approached the console. She picked up a small triangular crystal smaller than a thumb. It was one of the things that was developed by Ix Technologies and that could store more data than a datapad. Either way it was in this crystal that she saved every video about Akesha's mother, but the videos were not so many, but she at least knew that everything was in this crystal.

Well anyway in a few hours she was reaching the planet of Tae'Karada. There was time to rest. She had to ask for help for an identity to help her with the videos, one that had the ability to hack in anything. She had enough time to worry about that, now she had things to do once she arrived in Tae'Karada to ensure that Akesha was trusting to the Triumvirate's eyes, to oversee the final constructions of the stores and facilities in Tae'Karada and hopefully the local Hutt didn't bother them, but that was hoping too high. Also she had to propose a few contracts and to franchise some of the Brath'Nam Inter-Galactic Guild products to a few businessmen. Then probably between meetings she was going to find that someone that was trusting enough to help her in this investigation.

"Dinner Party, Part 1"
By: Merrick Braston
Keeve Shivral [NPC+]
Kimara [NPC+]
Zale Tregat
Moril Astren [NPC+]

Location: Palace of Arcadia
Date: Lythe 10, 4 ABY

***

Merrick's eyes opened and he found Shiv and Keeve sitting there, watching him. He blinked and looked between them. He remembered bits of what had happened, but it was foggy. It took his mind a few moments, but he realized the truth: he was free. He smiled at Maeren and then at Keeve. He sighed softly and nodded. "Thank you," he said. "I...it was...humiliating. When did you two get back? And...and is Kaysa with you?"

Keeve glanced aside at his companion, then cleared his throat and leaned forward in his seat. "Merrick," he said gently, "Kaysa and Shiv are still on Agarra with Kal. We'll contact them in the morning to return, but for right now, you need to sleep." Grinning crookedly, he added, "I shot you. Sorry."

"K-- But..." He shook his head and turned to the young woman who looked so much like Maeren. "At least you didn't bite me again. What...what do you mean?"

Keeve shook his head slowly in confusion. "About what?" He followed Merrick's gaze, which was focused on Kimara and looked rather perplexed. Keeve chuckled. "You think-- No...Merrick...that's not Shiv. This is...well..." He shrugged and reclined in his seat with a heavy sigh. "Meet Kim...Maeren's clone."

"Maeren's...her...clone? Yes," he murmured. "Yes, I need to sleep."

"Good idea," Keeve concurred, patted his shoulder sympathetically, and rose. He held a hand out to Kim and motioned for the door. In the doorway, Keeve paused with Kim, turning again towards Merrick. "Oh...I thought you'd like to know, we found Zale. He's fine."

Merrick scowled at the announcement and let out a wry, harsh laugh. "Too bad," he answered with a distinct edge to his voice.

Keeve shifted his gaze slowly to Kimara and the two shared confounded shrugs. "We'll...leave you to get your rest now," Keeve said awkwardly, then nodded at Kim and the two slipped out. In the hallway, Keeve let out a low whistle, then sighed. "Looks like a lot more went on in that cruiser than we know."

Kimara nodded slowly. "I thought you said that he and Zale were close friends, almost inseparable. Do you suppose...I guess perhaps it was as bad as Dargus' cruiser."

"How do you mean? You aren't--" Keeve stepped in front of Kimara, stopping her with his hands on her shoulders. "You don't mean that Zale...you know...forced him?"

"It is...it is a possibility given the nature of the men in question," Kimara said. "Only they could say for certain, but something happened between them that has upset Merrick."

Keeve snorted. "Obviously, Kim. And Zale was belligerent when they tried to haul him off that ship." He grumbled and released Kim as he resumed their walk through the corridor. "I think I'll hold off on comming Kaysa until we've got this figured out."

Kim nodded as she leaned comfortably into him. "What time was the shuttle with Zale on it supposed to arrive?"

Keeve nearly winced as he answered, "Now. I'm almost afraid to meet it, though. I hate calling you "the clone", Kim...but what else am I supposed to say?"

"It is what I am," she answered. "Perhaps you could just say that I am Kimara, and that I am a clone that Dargus made of Maeren. Perhaps that will sound better than just saying that I'm the Clone." She gave him a smile, then snuggled her face against his cheek. "Will that be alright?"

He chuckled and wrapped her in an embrace. "Sounds good to me. Seems Dargus enhanced your intelligence when he created you."

Kimara smiled at him. "Perhaps he did," she said. "I don't know all the things he did to me, but I am grateful for any enhancements you happen to approve of."

"Well, you can dance," he mentioned, remembering her performance of the previous evening. "And you don't kiss too badly either." He winked, teasing her. "What other enhancements have you got?"

"I seem to recall being fairly talented in bed," Kimara said with a shy smile. "And...I'm cuter than anyone else around, except maybe the original Maeren."

"Well, I'll have to take your word for the first one," Keeve answered, "but you are definitely cute. I'll grant you that much, though it's hard to compare when you and Maeren both look alike, but are so different personality-wise." He grinned and said, "I guess we'll just have to get you two in the same room and figure it out for certain, hm?"

Kimara grinned. "I think I'd like that very much," she said. "I really do hope to meet her. Perhaps it's silly of me, but I want to meet her and get to know her. She sounds amazing, and I want to know how different we really are. How is it possible that you're able to make me so happy, Keeve? How do you do it?"

"I'm not exactly sure," he replied truthfully. "I guess I just make you smile a lot, and I don't take advantage." Laughing, he added, "And it helps that I'm not trying to avoid you anymore."

"That helps a lot," Kimara said. "And, if you wanted to try to take advantage of me a little, I wouldn't mind." She gave him a grin that was, at once, mischievous and innocent.

He grinned his dashing lopsided grin, then kissed her brow. "Believe me, I'd like that more than anything...but let's just wait a little while longer, just until you're sure there isn't someone else out there better suited to you, Kim."

Kimara giggled and hugged him tight. "We'll see," she said. "Though, that Merrick is a cute one."

"He's also married." Keeve chuckled and gazed down at her skeptically as he asked, "What is it with you and married men, home-wrecker?"

She giggled even louder. "Oh, I wonder if Dargus programmed me to be naughty, or if this is just the way I am naturally. It's not too bad, is it?"

"Not if my wife's okay with you trying to seduce her husband," Keeve quipped.

"Well, I hope she's not," Kimara said and brushed a hand over his chest. "And, I hope her husband is okay with me trying to seduce him."

"I know I shouldn't be," he told her with a wan smile, "but I am." His larger hand closed around hers, and he held both against his chest. "Though, we should save it for later. Right now, we have an angry dark-skinned, braidy-haired crime lord to meet, and I'm definitely not looking forward to that."

"I don't think it'll be that bad," Kimara said. "If nothing else, you can always just let me flash him some thigh. From what Oot Kovan says, he's fairly weak at resisting the charms of a woman."

"Well, he shouldn't be," Keeve snapped. "He's married to my mother. And if I find out he's done anything to hurt her, it's not going to be pleasant for him."

"If he has hurt her, he deserves it," Kimara said. "I guess we should get ready to meet him. I wonder if we should have some guards there for extra intimidation."

"I'm guessing Oot's taken care of that." He sighed deeply and led Kim to her room in the Palace. "I'll meet you downstairs," he told her, smiled fondly as his hand passed over her cheek, then backed away. "Don't wear anything too fancy. You've already impressed me enough."

Kimara giggled and blew him a kiss. "I'll impress you with my restraint," she said. Then scampered off.

***

At least he didn't stumble going down the ramp from the Lambda-class shuttle. The glare from the light of the palace's courtyard was almost too much for eyes adjusted to the dim confines of the cruiser that had been his home for so long. But he was home, and it was time to remake his life, to get back to where he was before all this, to get back to Kaysa now that the danger had passed. As his feet touched the ground, he allowed himself a moment to look around. Ahead of him, he saw Keeve and Maeren, standing together watching. He frowned at Maeren, wondering at the clothing she'd chosen. It seemed rather plain and serviceable, unlike the wild clothing she'd worn when he first met her or the usual flesh baring attire she'd normally chosen. She gave a smile to Keeve, who nodded, and Zale understood. Keeve didn't appreciate others enjoying the sight of his wife's beautiful skin and body. A shame, but he couldn't blame him. He couldn't think of a man alive who wouldn't instantly desire the young, blonde woman. He allowed a wry smile as he approached. "My saviours?" he asked as he drew closer. "Thank you for my freedom."

"Thank Oot," Keeve told him with a grin, then extended a hand to Zale as he neared. "It's been a long time."

"It has," Zale said as he accepted Keeve's hand. "And, I'd rather thank you because I know how Oot likes to be thanked for her assistance. You're both looking very well."

"Well, it's been a long night, but we're doing okay." He paused, studying Zale's face and recognizing an indescribable change in his features, a hardness. He imagined it was the same thing Merrick had spoken of. "If you're interested...Musician's fine. A little groggy, but he'll recover."

"Good," Zale said with a nod, then glanced at Shiv. "Is Kaysa here too? I really should see her...she has to be worried sick..."

"Uh..." Keeve chuckled dryly, and disentangled his hand from Kim's. "Kaysa's not here...and neither is Maeren." His gaze flicked towards Kim, then back to Zale as he said, "This is Kimara. She's...um...she's Kim."

"Oh," Zale said with a knowing wink at Keeve. "My dear, you are the spitting image of my wife's girlfriend and Keeve's wife. I can see why he has you hanging off his arm like that."

Kimara only glanced to Keeve.

"She's not hanging off of anything," he told him with a frown. "Now, we've got a room set up for you inside. If you'll stop gawking at Kim and get moving, we'll show you the way." Still wearing an irritated expression, Keeve started back towards the Palace, leaving Kim behind with Zale.

"Ahh," Zale said as he hurried to fall into step beside Keeve, "some things never change. So, what has been happening while I've been out of action? And, what is it with Kimara, who looks so remarkably like Maeren? And, why haven't you lightened up yet? You're in as foul a temper as you've always been, even when you were a little brat."

"This hasn't exactly been fun, Zale," he grumbled. "We've been in hiding for four months because of your damn brothers, you've been held prisoner for that long, and you're acting like you've just come back from vacation." Keeve halted, and abruptly whirled on Zale. "And she's not a look alike, she's a clone, and no, I'm not sleeping with her!"

"Would you prefer that I dwell on my capture, Keeve? Would you prefer that I am morose and angry? Perhaps it's your way to be angry at everyone and everything, but I know that if I carried as much angst as you do, I'd rather kill myself. I will not dwell on the darkness that has consumed me for the last four months, because down that path lies nothing but pain and heartbreak."

"Fine," he snapped, staring the large man down, "but I'd like to see you explain that to Merrick. I imagine he'd like to wipe that smile off your face." Keeve smirked and stalked away, calling for Kim as he went.

Zale watched them go, a cold dread filling him. Then, after several seconds of tortured silence, he followed.

"This is yours," Keeve told him upon their arrival to his room. He gestured with disinterest inside. "There are some clothes. Once you're changed, come to the throne room. Moril's waiting."

"Good," Zale said. "At least one person who won't glare and scowl at me. I'll see you soon."

Keeve shook his head and turned away with Kim. "He's so blind," Keeve muttered to her. "He thinks everything's just fine... He doesn't understand what everyone's been through."

"I don't think he thinks everything's fine," Kim said. "I think he's trying to pretend it is because he's afraid to face how bad it was. So, what exactly does your mother see in him?"

Keeve snorted. "Hell if I know...." He sighed, and imagined that, no matter what appeal Zale had held before, it wouldn't do him any good judging from Merrick's reaction. It seemed Zale's brothers had done more damage than initially suspected.

***

They were at the far end of the throne room, waiting for Zale's arrival. Moril was still staring at Kimara, shaking his head. "It's uncanny," he said. "The resemblance is...it's...uncanny."

"You already said that," Kimara said with a giggle.

"Well, it's true," Moril said. "I guess I thought there would be something more distinct about clones, and...but, you're...wow."

"She is distinct," Keeve told him, with his characteristic brooding expression. "Personality-wise, she's nothing like Maeren."

"So, what's she like?" Kimara asked. "What's so different about us? Oh Keeve, I hope I get to meet her soon. It'll be like having another sister."

"You already have a sister," he stressed. "And I fear what having you two in the same room could mean. She's mischievous enough on her own."

"Is she?" Kimara asked with a grin. "Then I definitely want to meet her. She sounds like an amazing person, and I think Saris and I would love to get to know her. Then we could play games like 'Make Keeve Guess Which is the Real Maeren.' "

"Oh, I could," he insisted with a smug grin. "You may look alike, but there are differences."

"Like what?" Kim asked with a mischievous grin. "I think you're just making that up. I think if the three of us were together--"

Merrick gulped. "Three!?"

Kim grinned and nodded. "I think you would be perplexed. You would wonder which of us it was. It'd be so...perplexing, and you would frown like you usually do when you're trying to figure something out. It's really cute when you do that, by the way."

He grumbled and shoved his hands into his pockets as he turned half- away. "I bet it is...."

Kim moved closer to him and slipped her arms around him. "I'm sorry, sweetie," she said softly. "I didn't mean to upset you."

Keeve cleared his throat, and shifted uncomfortably, especially at Moril's amused smile. "Not now," he muttered to Kim.

"I'm sorry," Kim whispered. "I promise to be good. I can't help it though, you know that."

Laughing in disbelief, Keeve gazed down at her quizzically. "You can't help it? What's that supposed to mean?"

"I can't help being affectionate," she said. "It's just the way I am. So, when I say something that upsets you, I can't help trying to make you happy again...by hugging you."

Keeve's harsh features wavered, and soon he was chuckling. "You're wrong," he told her, "I could tell the difference between you three." He leaned forward and smiled at Kim. "You are by far the strangest of the three," he whispered fondly.

"I'll take that as a compliment," she whispered, then quickly closed the distance and kissed him quickly.

Keeve straightened up abruptly, and cleared his throat as he again turned away from Kim. His cheeks were bright red, now, and the smile Moril wore indicated he found the scene extremely comical. "Not a word," Keeve warned him.

Moril held up his hands. "Not one word," he said then glanced at Kimara. After a moment, he shook his head and grinned. "Though, I think you're a fool."

Keeve's body stiffened, and his posture was immediately defensive. "Fool? What's that supposed to mean?"

Moril chuckled. "Merely jealousy," he said. "And, admiration that you're able to resist."

"I have Maeren," he answered with a shrug. "Now, do you mind?" He gestured towards the parting doors of the throne room. "Zale's about to make his homecoming. Show some respect." One side of his mouth twitched into a brief smile, and he winked at Moril, his one-time enemy, but now almost-friend.

Moril chuckled softly and turned to face the doors.

"Dinner Party, Part 2"
By: Keeve Shivral [NPC+]
Kimara [NPC+]
Zale Tregat
Moril Astren [NPC+]
Oot Kovan
Saris [NPC+]

Location: Palace of Arcadia
Date: Lythe 10, 4 ABY

***

A moment later, they were swung wide and Zale strode into the massive room. He had cleaned up and gotten into fresh clothing. He looked almost presentable. He spotted Keeve and the others, and headed in their direction. "I feel like a new man," he said with a big smile. "Clothes fit great."

"They don't feel awkward?" Keeve asked with a knowing look.

Zale narrowed his eyes at Keeve. "No, not at all. Should they?"

He smirked. "I just figured lounging about naked every day for four months would instill an aversion for clothing in you." Keeve shrugged innocently. "Look at Maeren; you have to force her to put on something half the time."

"Maeren is an exhibitionist, I'm not," Zale said. "Maeren doesn't need an excuse to remove her clothing. I do."

"Yes, Zale," Keeve muttered, and playfully rolled his eyes at Kim. "Now, now, Mr. Tregat," Keeve continued, "don't be a churl. Moril came all this way to visit and you haven't even given him a 'hello.' "

"It's alri--" Moril began, but Zale quickly cut him off.

"Hello, Moril," he said. "It's good to see you. Everything's good?"

"Maston's sick, but other than that."

Zale nodded. "Good, send him a care package, with my regards."

Moril smiled. "Of course."

Zale turned back to Keeve. "So, what is going on?"

"With what?" Keeve asked. "Moril's been handling Antorial affairs and your wife and her lovers have been hiding out on Agarra. Anything else?"

Zale raised an eyebrow, but didn't press Keeve's phrasing. "What are you doing back on Tae'Karada with a clone of Maeren? And if my eyes aren't deceiving me, two clones at that."

"I came to save your asses," Keeve replied simply. "And the clones were a surprise to me too. If you want to talk to someone about that, talk to Oot. She's the one who found them."

"I see," Zale said. "Well, I guess things are in order then. I don't think they had any intention of letting us leave their capture."

"Of course not," Keeve answered. "I mean...all the fodder you and Merrick were giving them.... They're smart, those two. Nearly had Kaysa hauling herself over here to rescue you both herself."

Zale frowned. "What fodder?"

Keeve smiled slyly. "Don't be coy, Zale. You know what."

"Do you think I enjoyed that? That I had any choice in the matter? They forced us into it, and refusal meant death."

Keeve snorted. "You didn't look like you were having an awful time, Zale. Smiling normally denotes pleasure."

"I had my dick thrusting into Merrick's ass, Keeve," Zale snapped. "If you think that's not going to feel good because I shouldn't be doing it, you have a lot to learn. I'd like to see you fuck the clone here and not enjoy a moment of it."

"Hey," he said, raising his hands defensively, "you don't have to convince me. It's Kaysa you have to worry about."

"Wouldn't mind seeing that myself," Kimara muttered under her breath. Moril chuckled.

"Well, we'll just have to get Kaysa here, or get me to her. It wasn't what you think there, Keeve. It was just survival."

"Explain that to my mother," Keeve told him, his tone non-accusatory. "I'm going to comm Maeren and tell her it's okay to return." He smiled tightly at the man he had once admired as his hero when he was a child; now, he was a stranger. "Oot's prepared a meal. Shall we?"

Zale looked around the expansive room, then nodded. "Sure," he said. "Food would be good, especially after what they were feeding us."

Keeve grinned and led them out of the throne room towards the dining hall. He glanced aside at Zale, mischief brewing within. "I should probably ask Merrick if he's up for dinner."

"Perhaps that isn't such a good idea yet," Zale said. "Merrick and I, we aren't exactly on the best of terms at the moment."

"Really?" Keeve frowned pensively. "So...while you were having fun ravaging him, he wasn't?" Keeve shrugged. "Interesting."

Zale's eyes narrowed. "Perhaps you would be more happy if I'd just let them kill me, rather than doing what they demanded of me?"

"I couldn't care less," Keeve replied with a laugh. "Just preparing you for the mouthful you'll be getting from Maeren, Kaysa, and Merrick when they see you. You're going to have to give them some pretty good arguments, Zale. So far, it doesn't look good for you."

"So what are you saying, Keeve? I can see that I've already got one person working against me in this. Will you speak out against me to them? Or are you actually trying to help me now, warn me that the road ahead is difficult?"

"I have no reason to speak out against you," Keeve told him. "I have nothing to gain by it. I'm just letting you know what you've got coming, Zale." He grinned, holding out a hand to him. "I do still owe you my life, right?"

Zale looked down at Keeve's hand, then up to Keeve. "I think we can call it even now," he said.

He shrugged and withdrew his offered hand. Keeve felt Kim's close around it the moment it reached his side. He sighed, shook his head, and started forward again. "Is it just me, or is he far more bratty now than I ever was?"

"I...I don't know," Kimara said softly. "I've only just met him."

Keeve performed a double-take, registered his mistake in forgetting it was Kim and not Shiv, and sighed deeply. "I need a drink," he muttered and escorted them all into the dining hall.

Kim grinned. "I could use one too," she said.

"I'll get them," Moril said. "What'll it be?"

Keeve shrugged. "How should I know? This is my first drink."

Moril laughed. "Come on then," he said. "I'll set you up with something good."

Keeve obliged and followed Moril. A strange feeling came over him as they walked, the sensation of something boring into his back. When he glanced around, he discovered the source: Oot Kovan's hungry eyes training on him from the distance. He quickly looked away and hurried forward. "So...that drink?"

Moril moved off with Keeve to get drinks, chatting idly as they did. A few moments later, Oot Kovan appeared at Keeve's side. She had Saris with her, who was smiling gratefully as she looked around. Oot gave Keeve a smile that spoke of hunger and desire. She placed a hand on his forearm. "I trust everything is going well, my dear?"

"As well as can be expected," he replied, smiling politely at the Twi'lek. He winked at Saris, who giggled and looked away. "Zale's beginning to realize being rescued doesn't necessarily mean he gets off so easy. Merrick's out for blood."

"Too bad," Oot said with a wry smile. "I've always been a firm believer in picking up the messes one makes, and he's certainly made a mess this time. How do you suppose Kaysa will react?"

"I've seen how she reacted," Keeve answered, letting out a deep breath. "She'll claw his eyes out. I'm certain of that."

Oot nodded. "Well, fortunately, as Zale knows so well, they do have replacements available for such things. I imagine with his wealth, he should be able to afford some top of the line models."

Keeve chuckled dryly. "You try joking to him about that. Though, maybe some information on the fate of his brothers will put him in a better mood."

"Do you think he really deserves to be in a better mood?" Oot asked. "I'm not exactly a model citizen, but the things he did to Merrick..."

"It's better than having him storm out of here on a rampage," Keeve quipped, turned at the tap on his shoulder and accepted the drink from Moril. "And I bet he could use one of these." He raised the glass to Oot, then sucked back a large gulp.

Oot grinned slyly. "Perhaps I should take one to him, and...loosen him up a little. Hm?"

Keeve chuckled. "Not too much, if you please. We're trying to wean him off of sex."

"Oh, I tease very well," Oot said with a wickedly sinful smile. "And, I'm very good at saying no."

"No you're not!" he laughed.

"Oh, but I am," Oot insisted. Then added: "When I want to."

He raised a skeptical eyebrow and shrugged. "Okay...I'd like to see this."

"You have," Oot said with a smile. "When I'm with you, I don't want to. With Zale, for practical purposes, I need to."

"Then do so now," Keeve prompted with a nod in Zale's direction. He was alone, brooding at the window overlooking the city. "If I talk to him anymore, there'll be blaster fire."

"I'll speak with you soon," Oot said with a smile. "Enjoy your beverage, and if there's anything else I can do to you, let me know."

Keeve frowned and glanced aside stubbornly at Kim and Saris. "Promise you'll never become like her."

Kim glanced after Oot, and shook her head. "You mean insatiable? I promise."

Giving her a lopsided grin and watching sidelong, he teased, "Liar."

Kimara only gave him a grin, while Saris giggled. "You should hear the things she says about you," the other clone added.

"Oh?" Keeve shifted his gaze slowly to Saris, while his smile broadened. "And what would those things be, Saris, dear?"

Saris blushed and looked to Kim, who was doing a combination of blushing and glaring. "I-- I really shouldn't say," she said. "Though, I think that if you talked to Kimara privately, she will probably tell you."

"Come now, Saris," he crooned, "you can tell me." His smile was charming, and he stroked her cheek with a single finger, under which the girl nearly melted. "Please?"

"She said that you have the most beautiful hands, and...and she wanted to feel them touching her, arousing her, and sending her deep into bliss. She...stop glaring!...she thinks that you have the most beautiful smile, but you don't smile enough, but when you do it makes her insides feel all fluttery and warm."

Keeve's eyes widened and his grin grew sly. "Oh? She said all that, did she?" He favoured a flustered Kim with an admonishing frown. "Those are some very unwholesome thoughts, Kimara." Then, chuckling, he teased, "Have I introduced you to Moril yet?"

"I believe you did," Kimara said with a smile, "but I think that Saris has already made her claim to him. So, I think I will keep...watching your hands."

Keeve smirked, bringing the drink to his lips. "I'm sure you will," he muttered, then drained the rest of Moril's concoction.

Kimara punched him in the arm playfully and leaned close. "You make it seem like such a bad thing, sweetie," she said, her eyes flashing. "It's really not."

"It is, sweetie," he whispered, "when I don't wish for others to get the wrong idea."

Kimara frowned, and then stepped back. "Alright," she said, obviously not happy. "I'll...I'll go see if...if Oot needs any help."

"No, you won't," Keeve told her. "She's talking to Zale. You can stay here with us."

"Then maybe I should...go see if I can help with the food, or...or water the flowers in the garden...or..."

One side of Keeve's face lifted in utter confusion, and he gripped Kim's arm to keep her from straying. "What in the world are you talking about, Kim? Has something gone wrong with your gene coding?"

Emotion warred in her eyes as she met his gaze. "No," she said softly. "I just don't want to give anyone the wrong idea."

Keeve sighed and rolled his eyes, knowing that look from Maeren. "Kim..." He grasped the new drink Moril had set down on the counter and thrust it out towards her. "Drink this and smile."

She took the glass and raised it to her lips. She took a small sip, keeping her eyes elsewhere. "Sorry," she whispered.

He smiled and affectionately patted her cheek. "That's better. Now...what were you saying about my hands?" Chuckling, Keeve winked at her playfully. "Don't pout. It's too appealing."

Kimara shifted her eyes away and redoubled her efforts to keep her frown in place. "Stop," she rasped. "I can't look forlorn if you keep making me laugh."

"Oh, so that's the look you were going for?" Keeve's lips quirked into a lopsided grin, and he encouraged her to take another sip. "Now, if you're good, you can sit beside me during dinner. Sound good?"

"I guess it sounds alright," Kimara said as she finally returned her eyes to his. "Though, I can think of somewhere else I'd rather sit."

Keeve sighed and helplessly laughed softly. "Incorrigible, Kim," he told her. "Just like Maeren."

She gave him a bright grin. "I hope that's a good thing," she said with a purr.

"A dangerous thing," Keeve quipped, then smiled and raised the drink again to his lips.

Kim edged closer. "Do you like danger, Keeve?"

His grin was daring and matched the mischievous glint in his eyes. "Why do you ask?"

"Just making sure," Kimara said with her lips curling into a wide grin. "Are you feeling up for any danger tonight then, my Keeve?"

He glanced aside at Moril, then at Saris, and rested his eyes again upon Kimara. The challenge in her own was clear. "I'm up for seeing what you have in mind," he replied equivocally.

She said nothing, but the smile she gave him said far more than any words ever could. He knew he would live to regret his words...or forever be glad he spoke them. "Shrew," he teased.

"Shh," she answered with a seductive wink, "or people will have the wrong idea."

He frowned, and grumped stubbornly into the drink he brought to his lips. It was drained in a single toss. He sighed as the liquor singed his throat, then planted the glass firmly down. "I'm eating," he muttered, then pushed off for the table.

Kimara hurried after him quickly. "Mind if I join you?" she asked. "I'm actually hungry too. I haven't had anything to eat all day. I kept forgetting." She grinned.

Keeve chuckled and watched her queerly. "Why?"

Kimara shrugged. "I don't know," she said with a giggle. "I guess I just kept forgetting. We've been busy with things, and...well, I didn't. Sometimes it's just really hard to remember those things!"

"Things? Like eating?" Keeve shook his head, emitting a voiceless laugh. "Okay...definitely not like Maeren. She would have already eaten about five times by now, and still want more." At the table, he pulled Kim's chair out for her and grinned. "You're hungry now though, right?"

"Famished," Kim said as she slipped into the offered chair. "Oh, do we get to make Zale all uncomfortable at dinner? I think he deserves a little extra heat for what he's done."

"No," Keeve answered, at once serious and stern. "Not a word, Kim. You don't know him; I do, and right now, he's not in the best of moods. Just leave it."

"Well, I know a few ways to put him into a better mood, though Kaysa wouldn't be happy. Saris would enjoy it though."

"Well, I wouldn't," he added quickly, then caught himself and moved to his own chair. "Stop being so impetuous, Kim. It'll do you no good."

"Okay," Kimara said with a smile. "I'll be good."

As she quieted, Oot was leading Zale from where they'd been talking near one of the windows over to the table. "Have you had a chance to make contact with Kaysa and the others yet? Zale has a message he'd like to prepare for them before they arrive here."

"I was going to do it tomorrow," Keeve replied, sparing a glance in Zale's direction. "Did you want to deliver it yourself?"

"I can do it myself," Zale answered, "as long as I have a little time to sort out my thoughts and prepare what I want to say. I know it's a foolish idea because I doubt I'll be allowed to finish, but the time to at least think it through will be helpful."

"I'd advise you to go easy on her," Keeve warned Zale, without referring to her fragile condition specifically: pregnancy. "I don't want you upsetting her, okay?"

"I want the opposite," Zale said. "I've hurt her enough. I need to stop hurting her, and...and I hope this will be the start of that. We need to heal."

"That'll take some doing," Keeve admitted. "You'll just...you'll have to see."

Zale nodded slowly and looked around the table. "Yeah, if it's possible at all," he said.

Keeve shrugged and looked down at the plate a server had placed before him. It was a steaming platter of fowl sitting in a delicate sauce and accompanied with a side serving of greens marinated in a vinaigrette...as far as he could smell. As appetizing as it all seemed, he wasn't much in the mood to eat considering what was coming in the coming day. Once Kaysa spoke to Merrick, Zale was in big trouble indeed.

"Look Towards the Next Horizon"
By Nyah Darasar

Location: Jedi Temple
Date: Lythe 10, 4 ABY

***

Days of waiting had turned to the day of truth. Nyah had dressed in a plain dark grey jumpsuit. While she looked forward to the challenge her training would bring, it also symbolized a whole new chapter in her life. While she studied the material Kiana had given her from her father that didn't change what it all meant.

A myriad of thoughts passed through her mind. Some of them more comforting than others, yet destiny had planned this path for her long before Nyah knew what it all stood for. By birth she was a Darasar. Though, Tae'Karada, her long seclusion, all of it went beyond following in Solon and Avel's footsteps.

Taking that giant leap to formally train would allow Nyah to grow in ways she could not comprehend. One small step at a time that was how it worked. Too much and Nyah would find herself in deeper than she was prepared for. As she stood there facing Kiana there was an elusive something about her new surroundings that eased her fear slightly. Unexplainable yet it let her know it was there.

"It's time to say goodbye now, child," Kiana replied softly. That nickname had become something that never changed with her long time guardian. She knew Nyah's strengths and weaknesses.

Nyah gave her a slight smile. "Have a safe journey back to Mirial and if you see any of my family tell them I am well."

Kiana nodded as she gave Nyah a sincere look of approval. "You have become quite a beautiful woman, Nyah. Now take that next step and take that next step. It is something you must do but I know you will not regret it."

For a moment Nyah allowed the slight breeze to play with her hair. She needed some time just to center her thoughts. Something her father always reminded her entered her mind: 'Beyond this horizon there will always be another. Always look ahead.'

Silently she watched Kiana depart. A shroud of sadness had descended, yet she was more than ready to move forward with this portion of her life. Nyah had waited so long. Second guessing her decision never entered her mind, she felt at peace with it.

That would make the days ahead a bit easier for her. Sure there would be further trials, challenges and unknowns to face. Caution and vigilance were important because she was vulnerable in ways Nyah had yet to fully understand. But she could not put off her true destiny any longer.

"Dark Alliance, Part 2"
by Nieme Yaresh
and Vorgoth

Location: Jadda's Palace
Date: Lythe 10, 4 ABY

***

They walked around the room, shadows playing their part in creating the atmosphere since the room only had the light provided by the torches that hung from the walls. She stood in the center and he watched her and her female figure. Slender, but she seemed a bit weak physically speaking. Of course, the Force was a strong ally and could mend that for a regular person when well used.

His eyes narrowed and he breathed hard as he walked in circles around her. "Anger and hate are the best allies that you can find. The lust for revenge feeds you to continue. To ignore or tame your feelings will take away your very essence, that which makes you a unique being," he told her. "Give into hate and anger and when you strike you will strike with much greater power and potential. You will strike with your nature self. And nature is all about survival of the fittest so why deny it? Nature gave you special traits. You must use them to become greater. You are a goddess amongst common people. Let nobody tell you otherwise!"

"Oh, I don't," Nieme drawled, flicking at an invisible ball of lint on her cloak. "If they do, they die." She grinned sultrily at Vorgoth. "Is that the idea?"

"The idea is to focus your powers on yourself, focus your anger. If you do, then you will become stronger. And as for killing others... If another creature crosses the path of a Nexus and poses any kind of threat, then the Nexus will attack with death as its goal. It is simple, pure and honest. Why should you be any different or restrain yourself? If you can and want to kill, and if others are weaker... Then, that is their problem, is it not?" he grinned as he kept walking around her. "Now, shall we begin training?"

Nieme shrugged, though her smile was eager. "If you think you have something to show me, then go right ahead." As he came before her again, she offered him a sultry wink. "We'll trade. You show me a thing or two, and later, I can teach you some...techniques."

"That is another thing... Sexual gratification means nothing. Love means nothing. You must learn to focus, not to think with your sexual parts all the time! If you want to keep offering sex, then perhaps you would consider the life of a prostitute instead?" he mocked her. "If you want to be respected, then you must make yourself someone fearful enough to strike respect on others. You strike nothing when you offer yourself! Nothing but submission," the Zabrak commented.

Nieme chuckled lowly. "If you think that, then you haven't seen how easily men grovel at my feet. Sexual prowess is a power all in its own, Vorgoth. You simply haven't seen the benefits...yet."

"And yet I am able to strike more fear and respect... And I don't offer anything in return. Like when you asked to be paid if you came here. I offered you the mere chance to live. Nothing you didn't already have at that point. You remained the same. But the chance to kill you was tempting!" he chuckled. "But we are not here to discuss sex. We are here to train..." he told her as he stopped moving. As he did so, a small cat walked into the room. "I want you to drain the life essence from this cat. But don't kill it...yet."

Nieme frowned at him. "Drain? How? I'm afraid my last Jedi Master never covered that one," she retorted.

"Every living thing is touched by the Force, meaning that you, as someone who can control the Force, are able to drain life essence from another being and onto yourself," Vorgoth explained. "Focus on the cat and find the essence that binds him to the Force. Once you've done that, alter its course so it meets your own. It takes practice and doesn't work on all creatures, but it can help you heal faster. And it can kill if done properly and for long enough."

"I know other ways to kill," she quipped, then grinned at Vorgoth as she folded herself onto the ground and sat cross-legged. "Here kitty, kitty," she whispered, and sought the creature's Force essence, as Vorgoth had advised. It wasn't difficult to perceive the resonating halo around the reisacat, and soon Nieme was extending tendrils of her own towards it, plucking at the oscillating strings of energy. The cat responded by turning her way, and gently, with the strands of the Force firmly ahold of the cat, she began reeling it in towards her. "Now what?" she whispered.

"Now feel it weaken, lower its defenses... And when he is submissive enough, kill it. Kill it, even though it can't defend itself," he grinned. The last sentence was a bit to test her cold heart. Was she able to kill a creature that had done nothing wrong to her? That was nothing she hated? She should be able to just because she could, but the question was would she indeed do the task...

"I could kill it," she mused, grinning slyly, "but why expend the energy?" She glanced up at Vorgoth inquisitively. "Is it not better to rule over people? Strike fear in them and gain their loyal servitude? Killing is just so" --she regarded the cat again with disinterest-- "tedious."

"A small reisacat can prove no ally, so there is no point in sustaining it alive," Vorgoth argued. "It is futile to keep it living when it cannot serve you. You do not need it, so kill it."

Nieme narrowed her eyes at Vorgoth. "And what if I don't want to? What if I want a pet!"

"You want the reisacat? You may keep it then," the Sith replied. Alas, there was some sort of a wicked look in him, as if in the very corner of his lips he smiled. He then narrowed his eyes. "We shall begin physical training then. I know you can use a lightsaber fairly well, so we will be skipping that for now. I want you to somersault your way over the torches around us as fast as you can..."

Nieme giggled at him as she stood upright. "Going easy on me, are you?" She shrugged and squared herself off with the row of burning sconces. Before launching herself forward, she fixed a dark smile on her "master"; she'd show him one day soon.

Still grinning, Nieme leapt into a run and launched herself over the high torch. The flames seemed to heighten as she passed over it, licking at her stomach but doing no harm. She came down easily and glared at Vorgoth; the fire flaring just as she was in its path seemed far too coincidental, but she carried on with the next. The following torch did the same, but she surpassed the obstacle, only to come down again and become grazed by a large stone hurling past her. She growled and vaulted over the next, but shrieked in frustration as something solid glanced off her arm. Nieme sensed he was delighting in the torment, and when the next rock hurtled towards her, she opened her mind to track it. When she landed, she furtively positioned herself directly into its flight path. Before it impacted with her, however, she used the Force to veer it away, giving the illusion that it had deflected off her chest; she fell to the ground with a cry of pain to perfect the ruse. When she landed, Nieme scowled at Vorgoth while rubbing her chest sympathetically. "Hey! You cheated!"

"I don't recall there being a rulebook in any fight... Everything goes!" he told her. "If you told your foe that he cheated do you think he would care? I could have killed you if I was against you. Now, I want you to lift that rock there," he told her as he pointed to a large boulder.

Nieme raised her chin defiantly and folded her arms over her chest. "I don't have to prove myself to you," she told him. "Why don't you lift the rock?"

Vorgoth turned to Nieme and pointed out his hand to her. She began to choke as he gripped her with the aid of the Force. "You will find I lack the virtues of both tolerance and patience," he told her just before he let her go free. "Now, lift the rock!"

Nieme smiled ferally as she massaged her throat soothingly. "Alright, Master," she whispered darkly. "I'll lift it." Nieme's focus shifted to the rock, which trembled under her influence. Beads of perspiration formed on her brow, and her teeth gritted as she continued to grin with perverse glee. She increased her concentration and redoubled her efforts; the rock budged and was soon levitating.

"For you," she breathed, "Master." Smoothly, the rock sailed towards Vorgoth, and stopped before him. "Have I done well?" she asked coyly, and followed the question up by swiftly throwing the rock into Vorgoth's chest. He staggered backwards with a growl while the rock thudded to the ground. Nieme giggled shrilly. "Everything goes! Isn't that what you said, Master?"

Vorgoth breathed deep and furiously. "You will also find that it is unwise to infuriate someone who can kill you and who is stronger than you!" he warned her seriously. He meant those words. "Now tell me, what do you know about hand-to-hand combat?"

She smirked. "I know that I'd rather get my hands on you in a different way," she purred.

"Your foolish invitations mean nothing to me," the Sith laughed. "So do not waste my time and yours. A simple question. Are you any good in a hand-to-hand combat? A simple yes or no will suffice."

Nieme shrugged. "Perhaps... I haven't had much practice."

Vorgoth somersaulted and landed right in front of Nieme. He gazed into her eyes and grinned. In a simple but fast move he grabbed her arm and twisted it before she could do anything to counter it. He had her pinned down with her face but an inch from the floor. "Fights can be much more efficient when you know how to defend yourself properly..." he laughed wickedly. "You will learn. But not today... Tomorrow. And I expect that you try harder because I will certainly be less soft!" he told her as he let her go.

Nieme grinned, moaning softly at the delicious roughness. Rising smoothly, she cast a lustful gaze in his direction. "Neither of us will be soft tomorrow," she purred, glancing briefly at his groin, then chuckled and sauntered away. She was determined to have Vorgoth by any means necessary, if only to put him in a better mood.

"A Business Proposition"
By Adam Edwards
and Oot Kovan

Location: Arcadia, Tae'Karada
Date: Lythe 10, 4ABY

***

The Elusive swooped in low over Arcadia. The Palace glowed majestically under the morning sun. The city was busy with activity. Shuttles raced back and forth, most likely ferrying busy bureaucrats to their morning appointments.

Adam pressed the comm channel for Palace docking control. "This is the Freighter Elusive, requesting docking permission."

The comm crackled for a second, then a voice came back through. "Freighter Elusive, state your business," the voice ordered.

"I'm here requesting a meeting with Madam Oot Kovan," Adam said.

"Very well, land on Landing Pad 3. Do not deviate," the controller told him.

Adam switched off the comm, and located the landing pad. It was located about halfway up the palace. He put the Elusive into position, then lowered it onto the pad.

He powered down the ship, then looked across the cockpit to DB. "Let's try to look nice."

They walked down the ramp, where they were met by a half dozen guards. The lead guard, with a rank of Major, stepped forward.

"I'm Major Thranas, Commander of his majesty's royal guards," the ranking officer said.

"I'm Adam Edwards, and I'd like to speak with Madam Oot Kovan," Adam told them.

"Before you can be allowed inside the palace, you'll need to hand over your weapons," the major ordered.

Adam pulled out his blaster, and gave it to the nearest guard. He then reached beneath his vest, and pulled out a small pocket blaster. DB handed over his concussion rifle, and the heavy blaster which was attacked to his leg. DB still had a small extendable wrist blaster, which was undetectable to scanning devices, which could be used in case there were a couple of surprises.

Once the guards were satisfied, Adam and DB were led inside. They were sent through a series of scanning devices. Like Adam thought, DB's wrist blaster was not detected in any of the scanners.

From there, Major Thranas lead them through a series of corridors. They arrived in front of a large door, presumably, where Oot Kovan was.

Seated in one of the chairs just below the large, ornate throne, Oot Kovan waited in regal splendour. Her red skin was accentuated nicely by the pale orange gown she wore. She gave the major a nod, and motioned for him to bring the guests closer. At her side, Kambra Gant whispered cautioning words and she nodded to him. "My name is Oot Kovan, acting High Princess Regent in the absence of Regent Liam Zaneth." She gestured to Adam. "State your business."

Adam smiled, and approached the throne where Oot was seated.

"Madam Princess Kovan, I have a proposition for you, if you wish to hear me out," Adam said

Oot Kovan nodded. "Go ahead," she said.

"A short while ago, I was investigating a planet on the rim. It was there, in some abandoned mines, that I found this," Adam said, holding up the vial of Lumni.

"It's called Lumni Spice, and is for the most part unheard of. I believe there is a large amount of this spice, buried beneath the surface of this planet," Adam said. "However, I lack the ability to mine this spice. That is why I have come to you. The money that could be earned would go far to help the interests of this planet. I'll give you the location, you supply the men and equipment, and we split the profits 50/50. Does this sound reasonable to you?"

Oot was silent for several moments, then nodded slowly. "Reasonable," she said with the hint of a smile. "I don't have much in the way of manpower that I could contribute. However, if you don't mind associating with droid laborers, I can help you there."

"I have no problem working with droids. I don't suppose the government has any transport ships laying around? We will need something to haul the spice," Adam said.

"The government has any transport ships around for you to use on your expedition to get some spice?" Oot Kovan raised a skeptical eyebrow. "No, Mr. Edwards, I don't believe we do. I believe I may be able to provide something from my own personal fleet."

"That is very generous of you. I want to mine at least 10,000 tons of the spice, so a transport vessel is a must. It would also be prudent to have some sort of protection, since this is a large investment," Adam said.

"What sort of protection are you looking for, Mr. Edwards," Oot asked. "And, with these increased costs, I'm afraid I must also inquire as to what sort of profits you are looking to acquire."

"I'm sure a small frigate would provide all the protection we need, if we keep this operation low key. As for profits, I'm just out to make an honest living," Adam said, smiling.

"If you want an honest living, harvesting spice isn't the place to do it," Oot said with a smile. "In any case, I believe we can come up with a frigate or two that will satisfy your needs."

"Excellent. I'll return tomorrow to work out the details with you," Adam said.

With that, Adam turned, and exited the room.