"A New World"
by Jak Libertas
Location: Thanatos, Tae Karada
Date: Praeda 15, 4ABY

***Corellia, Three Standard Months Ago***

The boy stared at him, eyes wide and terrified. Lem stood before the boy, towered over him. The child couldn't have been older than five, six at the most. He had black hair and green eyes, a delicate face that strongly resembled the mother's in fear. Lem's hand dipped to his side, and the handle of his force pike emerged. He pushed a button and the pike extended swiftly to full-length, a metallic song trumpeting its entrance as it slid against the internal compartments. He raised the pike, the tip pointing down, a soft hum emerging as the vibro-blades kicked into action. He'd come to think of it as a tune, a song for a dance he was best at. The only thing he was best at.

Under his mask, he heard his own breathing, slow and deliberate. The same way he'd killed the boy's parents. As if he could read Lem's mind, the child began to turn towards the bed, where Lem had left them. Lem stepped in front of the boy, blocking out his view, although he couldn't really say why. The boy looked back up at Lem, even though he couldn't see anything. The visor in Lem's helmet was completely opaque on the outside, it was impossible to see in. He knew how he must have looked to the boy, large and terrifying in the swirling crimson cloak, red molded armor lined in black, robbed of even the chance to see his killer's eyes. Lem raised the pike and prepared to strike, to kill the boy where he stood. Lem could make it quick, painless. He'd learned that as well as slower methods on Yinchorr. The Emperor's words to him rang in his ears: "Go to Corellia, somebody is aiding Rebel fighters to escape our blockades. Find them, and make them all pay."

Lem's breathing came faster, and the blood began to rush in his ears. Suddenly, he lowered the force pike and twisted his wrist. The blades shut off and the pike shot quickly back into the long handle. Lem looked back at the bed, the sheets stained with blood. All he could give the boy was that it had been a quick death. He quickly replaced the pike in its holding place and brushed past the boy, finally letting him see the bed. As he stalked down the hall, he heard the boy scream, and he felt the Emperor's disapproval, even now.

His eyes popped open, and were immediately assaulted by the sun. He looked up quickly, and found the Rodian turned around and looking at him. "You okay?"

Jak nodded, cursing himself for falling asleep. "Fine." He looked around, outside of the speeder. "Why are we stopped?" He squinted as he looked out. The sun hurt his eyes.

"No closer," the Rodian said. "This far enough for Thanatos."

Jak frowned and got out, his pack slung over his shoulder. It carried all he had left in the world. He looked out across the desert landscape, eyes resting on the small city not too far off. "This is Thanatos?"

"No farther," the Rodian said, shaking his head. The back door to the speeder closed, almost catching Jak in it. Jak stepped back and watched as the Rodian turned and quickly blasted away, sending grains of sand flying into Jak's face. Jak rubbed the dirt out of his eyes and started in closer to the city.

The entire place was bleached by the sun, and sounds filtered up from where Jak was standing. Bartering, arguments, some fighting. It reminded him of his old neighborhood on Coruscant. He hated that place, and he was sure he'd hate Thanatos just as much. If there was anything Jak disliked it was chaos. Under his armor, he was already sweating. He'd have to remember to put in the thermal liner when he found a place to stay. Didn't want to sweat to death in this place. Before long, he was in the city itself, and it was just as he had imagined from the computer. Jak had spent the last few months hopping around the Outer Rim, looking for a place to lie low, and the answer kept coming up to Chimaeria.

Jak knew the place well. It was a neutral power in the War, one which was known to house Rebels and enemies of the Empire. It was a haven for criminals and other scum, before the Empire arrived. It suited his purposes perfectly. There were still a number of places to hide on this planet and avoid the Empire's attention until he was prepared to meet his fate. As he was thinking, a human child bumped into him, and Jak grabbed the boy's wrist, which had snaked into his jacket pocket. The boy looked up at Jak with fearful eyes. Jak stared hard at those eyes, and thought of Corellia. He closed his own eyes and let go. The kid took off. Jak squeezed the bridge of his nose, and wished the sun would stop shining. He walked through the streets, being jostled by traders or street toughs, but Jak kept his head down, eyes watching everything. Just like it was on Coruscant. Before the Emperor, at least.

The info he'd read on the computer on the travel ship he'd come to Chimaeria on had provided the details of Thanatos. It basically boiled down to: Don't go there. Still, they were thoughtful enough to provide a basic map of the area, including places to stay. Jak had used another name on the ship, and was virtually untraceable. He knew how to cover his tracks.

He turned down a side street, stepping into the shade provided by the buildings close by on either side. He paused there, in the cool and a slight smile formed. Then, he started down the alley. The smells of cooking wafted down from some open window. Down on the street, it mingled with the smell of feces, of human garbage left in the sun too long. He consulted the map he'd downloaded to a hardcopy, found the place he was looking for just ahead. When he looked up, a Gaemorrean and two rough-looking humans blocked his path. The one in front was blonde, with several scars crisscrossing his face. The one behind him was darker, and stared humorlessly at Jak. Blondie was grinning widely, but it wasn't a nice smile. "Good day, sir."

Jak didn't reply, just kept his face impassive. The blonde human glanced at the Gaemorrean, who gave Jak a shove. "That's kinda rude," the human said. "Me sayin' good day and you sayin' nothin'." The Gaemorrean snorted. "My friend thinks we're owed compensation."

Jak glanced behind him, nobody was watching. Then he turned to Blondie, who was smiling again. Must've thought Jak was planning on running. And then, slowly, Jak smiled back at the human. Then Blondie's smile faltered, and Jak punched him in the throat. Jak felt the impact up to his elbow as the man's windpipe gave way. The Gaemorrean started to attack, and Jak's left hand flashed behind him and emerged with a curved Echani dagger. He slashed the Gaemorrean's throat twice, cutting both arteries. The Gaemorrean stumbled back and the second human advanced. He was brought up short when Jak extended his force pike to half-length and pointed it under his chin. The man was trembling slightly as the vibro-blades drew a slight well of blood just from a brief contact with the skin. The only weapon better than a force pike at cutting was a lightsaber. "Please," the man said, raising his hands. "Please."

Jak looked at the two bodies on either side of the alley, then looked up. He pushed slightly and the force pike drove itself into the man's skull. The man dropped instantly. Jak quickly retracted the pike as he walked away from the scene, stepping over the body of the second human lying in the middle of the alley. From what he'd read, Thanatos wouldn't concern itself over three dead robbers.

He followed the alley down for what seemed an eternity before Jak found the place he was looking for, a small ramshackle place the same color as the sand. The sign advertised it as "The Happy Bantha". Jak paused and looked at the name for a long moment before opening the door and going inside.

The lobby was small, with hard floors scuffed and scarred from years of use. Jak walked to the large wooden desk at the front left of the room. Just as he was approaching, a droid sprang up from somewhere under the counter, stopping Jak in his tracks. The droid was a silver protocol droid, although his shell had long since tarnished and rusted over. "Greetings on this fine day, sir." The Droid's voice filtered out, sounding small, like the droid was missing some parts. "How can I help you?"

Jak stepped forward. "I'd like a room, please."

The droid nodded, his joints creaking. "Yes, of course, sir." He started working at a computer. "Name?"

"Libertas," he said, using the name he'd acquired just a few weeks ago. "Jak Libertas."

"Planet of origin?"

"Tattooine," he lied.

"And how long will you be staying with us?"

Jak shrugged. "I'm not sure. Could be a long time."

The droid read out one week's fee, and Jak paid it. The droid held out a small electronic reader. Jak put his thumb on the glowing pad, and watched as the small blue light read his print, as well as key genetic information. It wasn't top-of-the-line, but it'd keep most thieves out. The droid put away the reader. "Thank you for your patronage."

Jak just nodded and went up. He found his room quickly, a small compartment with a bed against the wall and a window facing the wall of the next building over. The floor was the same hard substance as the rest of the building, and a small refresher compartment was located at the far wall from the bed. In terms of spartan furnishings, this room reminded him of the living quarters on Yinchorr. Jak took a deep breath and stripped off his jacket, pleased to be rid of it in the heat. With the jacket off, he revealed the several weapons hidden underneath. The two Echani daggers were strapped to the small of his back, criss-crossed in their sheaths. His blaster hung in a holster just under his left arm. Finally, the force pike handle sat in its own holster, on his left side, handle pointing slightly forward so Jak could grab it easily with either hand. He could barely remember a time when he didn't walk around like this. He pulled off the various weapons, carefully sitting them on the bed.

He took off his shirt then, revealing the polished red-and-black armor he'd worn everyday for the last four years. It was thin and lightweight. He'd gotten so used to it, he barely noticed it anymore, except in hot places like this. He unbuckled the armor and shrugged out of it, exhaling with pleasure as the air finally hit his skin. He removed the wrist guards as well, and walked to the refresher. He ran cold water and splashed it on his face and chest, trying to get cool again. He ran his hands through his hair and looked up at himself in the mirror. His black hair hung longer than it had for years. A necessity for diguise. Brown eyes stared back at him, and glanced at his body, to the long red scar cutting across his stomach. A souvenir of Yinchorr, and the training he underwent there. He doused his face in water once more, then walked out, letting the air cool the water on his face. He got to his bag and opened it up. He retrieved a red bundle, and set it on the bed. Slowly, he unfolded the bundle, revealing his helmet sitting on its side. He picked it up and righted it. He stared long and hard at that image, the black line that cut across the eyes, the molded armor. He fingered a tiny scar on the side of the helmet, where he'd been shot once. The helmet had done its job, surprising the rebel who'd pulled the trigger. Jak smiled slightly at the memory of the man's face after that.

With a sigh, he set the helmet back down and wrapped it back up in his cloak. He took the bundle and walked to a heating vent. After removing the vent, he placed the bundle in the duct, set far back to avoid catching any light.

He redressed quickly, putting on his armor again, this time with the thermal liner. He changed his shirt and again strapped on his weapons before shrugging into the light jacket. He stowed the rest of his gear under the bed, and looked out the window. The sun was beginning to set, a purple-red tint hung over the sky. He took a deep breath and turned away, prepared to see what Chimaeria had to offer him.

---

"Money For Nothing... Part 1"
by Daemor'rah - Jedi / Bounty Huntress
Date: Praeda 15, 4 ABY
Location: Thanatos, Chimaeria

The night had passed over. She had stayed in the dark mostly around Thanatos. She was waiting, giving time its time, fixing her weapons as she had gotten herself some new improvements for her weapons and some new gear. A new scope for her long projectile gun with infra red and night visions and new goggles for herself for when she rode her swoop. A new long trenchcoat and a new belt to hide her lightsabers, concealed in her back.

She was strapping her weapons and dressing her coat when something came over that was to her interest. A conversation. It was far off but with her senses she could make out the words as if she were nearby them. Something about a spice run in Talkon on the Kamdon System. But what interested her the most were the words Jedi. Apparently there were some old Jedi who had opposed to his deliveries in that location.

One of the men seemed to be the one who had his business slowed down by the Jedi or at least he claimed that they looked and dressed just like the old Republic Jedis. Whatever it was it was interesting enough for her to want to check it out. She knew she had to go after Vicks Mason, but that could wait. Besides, it wasn't nearly as interesting as hunting Jedi, and she considered herself a Jedi Huntress more than a Bounty one. Bounties were just means to get money. Killing Jedi was for pure fun!

She decided to stalk the man in question and followed him all the way to a small bar. The kind that fills with scum. The worse kind of scum. Alas, amidst them she could pass almost undetected. More even so when she sat at a booth alone in the back with the shadows covering most of it. If her skin wasn't chalk white nobody would even see her probably, but as it was she was good enough to be ignored. Just what she wanted, as long as she could keep the man in her sight.

As soon as he left so did she. He was drunk enough, and didn't even notice she was walking now almost by his side. He was much shorter compared to her. She approached him as he stopped looking around as if lost. She looked down on him.

"Are you lost?" she asked him.

"No, no, no..." he smiled looking at her. "I was... Humm... Lookin' fer t'docking ports I was..." The strong ale he had drank earlier was easy to smell.

"You have your ship there?" she asked coolly.

"Who wants t'know?!" he asked now agrily and frowning. "I dunno you! Why you wanna know 'bout ship?! Get lost!" he said as he stumbled on his way.

In a flash she grabbed the small man by the neck and lifted him from the ground. He gasped and tried to get himself free but just wasn't strong enough. She was choking him and there was nothing he could do. And if she kept it up he would surely die. His body began to twitch but she didn't let go. She looked into his now frightened eyes.

"That was a mistake... Your very last one!" she told him just before he died. She let the dead body fall to the floor and kneeled beside it. On his pocket was the remote control to his ship and the datapad with the docking permits. Now she could use this man's ship as her own personal vessel for her needs. After all, a dead man wouldn't need a ship anymore. It was time to check it out...

As she got to the docking port she made her way to the bay in which the starship should be: Bay 12. As soon as she got in she could see just what prize she had just won. It seemed she had made her choices well enough. It was a modified cruiser that looked like a small Allied blockade runner. The ship was equipped with extra shielding and a long radar as well as two concussion missile launchers, a quad laser cannon and an ion battery. It was capable of lightspeed jumps and had a cargo area big enough to place her swoop inside which was good. Also it had attached to it a one man Starfighter with six torpedoes and two laser cannons. Daemor'rah was glad.

She got inside and didn't lose time. She placed the control in its place to reactivate the ship and changed its data so that it would now belong to her. Then, accessing the previous logbooks she found the exact location of Talkon, her next destination. The place where the Jedi were. Her next prey...

---

"Money For Nothing... Part 2"
by Daemor'rah - Jedi / Bounty Huntress
A'Shrad Hefta - Jedi Knight (NPC by Daemor'rah)
Yandoor Lugoth - Jedi Knight (NPC by Daemor'rah)
Aurra Sgall - Jedi Padawan (NPC by Daemor'rah)
Date: Praeda 15, 4 ABY
Location: Talkon, Kamdon System

She got to the location and disembarked at what seemed not too far off from the pickup where, according to the logs, was where the previous owner of the vessel had had his trouble with the so-called Jedi. A small city called Talkon. Two men that could easily be classified as guards to the city approached her. She knew that they were not the Jedi she was looking for and so had no interest in them. Without hesitation she took her lightsaber and slashed them both, killing one of them instantly and hurting the other one really bad.

She then felt three presences. It was surely the Jedi and that meant the man she had killed back in Chimaeria was right. There were Jedi hiding here and their code of ethics would be their downfall. The only problem was she knew they felt her too, which took away the element of surprise, so she immediately cloaked herself and hid in the dark, leaning against a wall in a higher point.

On the other side the Jedi took their lightsabers, igniting them. There were two Jedi and one young Twi'lek Padawan girl. They knew that the presence they felt was dark and that meant a threat. The Padawan girl was too young still and had not even constructed her own lightsaber. They reached the point where blood was on the floor. One of them kneeled down.

"A'Shrad, what have you found?" the other Jedi Knight asked.

"Blood!" he replied with a frown.

"Then we must consider the possibility that there is a menace lying nearby..."

"Hefta would say that it is a certainty, yes!" he said. "And whoever has done this is close, Yandoor. The blood is still warm! Besides, Hefta can feel his presence! He cloaks his presence well, but is out there, somewhere..."

"The blood, masters, is it hers?" the young girl asked.

"Perhaps. But I am thinking more that the answer would be negative."

They found the dead guard's body, only one was there. There were however footprints in blood that lead straight on from that point. The Jedi by the girl's side placed his hand on her shoulder. "I am sorry that you have been led to witness this tragic scene my Padawan."

"I-I'm all right, Master Yandoor. This being has gone to join the Force. A good thing in its way is it not?" the girl said.

"You are a wise student and brave. Your words gird the heart of an old Jedi. Someday you will be a great knight," Yandoor told the Padawan girl. "But you are part of this hunt now, whether you like it or not. Stay behind me. We must find the assassin!"

"Circle around! With the guidance of the Force Hefta and Lugoth will trap the dark one between them!" the other Jedi said as he wandered off with care into an alley. The other Jedi and the Padawan went around to the other side, while Hefta made his way along the bloody footprints until he found the other guard trapped in wires and cords.

"By the Force!" he said as he made his way to let the guard loose. "Do not worry servant of the city, Hefta the Jedi will see that you are taken care of!" he said as he unstrapped the guard. "If you can speak now, tell Hefta who has done this thing to you!"

But the gaurd said nothing. Instead he coughed blood and fell down, taking a last breath and dying. Hefta turned around rapidly as he saw the trap into which he had fallen. Already was Daemor'rah in mid air, falling upon him with her lightsaber in hand. A scream of pain was heard.

Yandoor and the Padawan heard the scream and headed that way. "Careful Aurra Sgall, my Padawan. There is a presence nearby, just ahead of us. Our quarry must be there!"

"Master! That smell..." the girl pointed out.

"Ionized air, charged by a lightsaber duel..." he nodded. He then saw A'Shrad Hefta looking at the guard. They ran towards him. "Hefta, my friend! What have you found here?" he asked. But Hefta was dead, blood coming from his stomach and mouth. As soon as Yandoor touched him he fell as a lump. From behind came a voice.

"Hello, Jedi. Looking for me?" she said just before jumping forward to battle. The lightsabers clashed and the light was bright. The young girl was perplexed and kept herself immobile. Yandoor Force pushed Daemor'rah away.

"You murderous beast!" he said.

"My name is Daemor'rah. One should know his killer's name!" she replied as she got up and charged upon him. Yandoor was skilled in his lightsaber, and dodged her saber out of the way, trying to hit her low afterwards. But Daemor'rah was also skilled and jumped over him.

As soon as Yandoor Lugoth turned around, Daemor'rah blocked his attack. He swirled her weapon and attacked fast enough for her to almost dodge. She was cut in the face, but only slightly. She stepped back.

"You cut me," she said as she passed the back of her hand in the wound, licking it afterwards. "It won't happen again, I'm going to enjoy killing you, Jedi!" And with that she charged one more time upon him from the side, but as she did so she also slid her other hand into her back.

Yandoor was capable of blocking the first attack, but what he didn't see was the other lightsaber that Daemor'rah took from her back and ignited in the way just before she trespassed him with it. The Jedi lurched in pain and dropped his saber falling down already dead. Daemor'rah picked up his lightsaber.

"NO! MASTER!" Aurra Sgall screamed as she ran forward, upon seeing her master be murdered by this woman. The huntress turned to face the girl and pointed a lightsaber to her face.

"Ah, a Padawan. How nice. Don't worry, little fool, your Master has joined the Force. It's a good thing in its way, is it not?" she mocked just before she turned her back onto the girl. "Look at you! Haven't even built your lightsaber yet! Don't worry, I won't forget you. Go! Mourn your dead Master! Find another one and learn your lessons well. Someday you will become a Jedi Knight, and then I will kill you too."

The young girl fell to her knees and started to cry. Daemor'rah, on the other hand, left the scene and got back to her ship. She still had one thing to do. She had to get Vicks Mason. Time to get that one sorted out...

---

"Taking A New Pupil"
by Master Kal'Aran
Aurra Sgall - Jedi Padawan
Doctor Mahara - Medical Chief [NPC]
Date: Praeda 15/20, 4 ABY
Location: Talkon, Kamdon System

***

***New Plouton, Chimaeria - Praeda 15***

He felt a disturbance in the Force. He knew at once what it was, and that gave him several memories of long lost times, when the Jedi Council was still looking after the Galaxy to ensure that peace ruled the land. That was before the Clone Wars, when Obi Wan's Padawan betrayed the Jedi, before the Empire arose to take over the Senate and rule mercilessly and in darkness.

Kal'Aran sat down. He remembered when he had first joined the Jedi Order. Taken before the Council he had become pupil to Master Mace Windu, as he was discovered on Tatooine by the revered Jedi Master on a trip to the desert planet along with Master T'ra Saa. She and Windu had felt the young boy's influence over the Force and knew that with training he could serve the Council well.

When accepted, his name was changed to Kal'Aran, and that had been so long ago that he had almost forgotten his birthname. He went into training, first by the hand of Master Yoda and when old enough by the hand of Windu himself. At the Jedi Academy he had met several others. Others who became Jedi Knights as he did. One of them became quite a friend, as they had been presented to the Council almost at the very same time. Yandoor Lugoth.

They grew up as almost brothers. Both left with no family to go back to. They had gone under tests at the same time. Built their lightsabers at the same time and trained at the same time. Still, they were different. Maybe the difference came from their Jedi Masters. Trained by Windu, Kal'Aran was calm and perceptive and yet very skilled in his lightsaber technique, whereas Yandoor was rational and careful, as well as very aware of his surroundings, but lacking the same fighting technique.

And now, after all this time, Kal'Aran had felt his bretheren's death. There was no doubt, except who had done so. He knew that Yandoor was in the Kamdon System but he was also aware that this was not known by many others. Who had learned of his location and who had murdered his friend. It was very possible that it had been the Empire, even though the Jedi hunting was not the very same nowadays... Kal'Aran decided to honour his lost friend and make way to Kamdon to find out what had happened.

Before he left the house, he wrote a note for his Padawan whom was away:

"Alisson, I have gone to take care of something that asked my respect and time. I hope you have found what you went looking for. I will be back as soon as it becomes possible.

Kal'Aran."

***Talkon, Kamdon System - Praeda 17***

It took him almost two days to reach the Kamdon System, as Kal'Aran had to avoid certain areas and more direct routes due to Imperial activity. This way he could reach Talkon without interception. Something that took time but was wise in a way, like Master Ki-Adi Mundi had told him once: "Avoid your enemies instead of seeking confrontation..."

As he set down his Corellian Starship in the local starport, he paid his fee to keep his ship for a couple of days and set out to discover what had happened. He was able to learn from the locals about a slaughter by an unknown murderer who had killed two City Guardians plus two outsiders, leaving only one small girl alive to tell the tale, and she was in shock.

Kal'Aran could tell that they meant Yandoor Lugoth and someone else besides the two guards. But who was this little girl?! And where was she now? Eventually he found her, being taken care of in a local medical facility. Kal'Aran went there and spoke to the man in charge.

"Greetings, Doctor Mahara. I understand that a little girl that was involved in a slaughter a couple of days ago is being taken care of here..." he stated.

The doctor turned to face Kal'Aran. "Humm... Yes, the poor infant. She was the sole witness of that bloodbath. She is in quite a state of shock and has not spoken since. Why do you ask?"

"I am in need of seeing her. I believe she knew a very dear friend of mine who was one of the murdered ones. Is it possible to see the girl?" Kal'Aran asked.

"I don't think that is a good idea... I never saw you before. How can I tell you are not lying?! Besides, the girl has not spoken since! She just stands there as if frozen..." Mahara replied.

"I assure you that I could be of assistance, as well as I mean no harm nor have I lied. I am only asking for a small favor. If you would reconsider..." Kal'Aran pressed gently.

"Well... I guess if you went with security to ensure the girl's safety..." the doctor thought outloud. "Ok then! You may go." He nodded. He then called a couple of security guards to escort Kal'Aran. As soon as he saw the girl he could tell that she was a Jedi Padawan, or so he could easily guess by her clothing. He sat next to the girl and looked her in the eyes.

The girl did not bother to move, as if nobody was there at that moment. She had been in shock and all that she could think of was about the murder of her Master Yandoor and Master Hefta, plus the two guards. Memories that would haunt her mind forever...

Kal'Aran knew what he had to do. It was not something that would be unanimously approved but it had to be done. It was the only way he could reach to the girl. He placed his hand on her forehead and linked himself to the girl. He could see what she had gone through, what she had seen. Daemor'rah the Jedi Huntress was the one to blame for the massacre. She had murdered Yandoor Lugoth and A'Shrad Hefta.

He blurred the girl's mind. She would remember what had happened but she would not feel it so intensly. Not anymore. She had suffered enough already and if she was to be saved, he could not leave her behind. He turned to the girl. "I am Kal'Aran a very good friend of your former Master..."

"You... You are Jedi too..." the girl said.

"Yes, that I am." Kal'Aran nodded. "And I know what happened to you, what you went through and what you saw."

"It was horrible! She killed them both! And the guards too!"

"I know... But you must calm down. They will always be with you in a way. But you must arise yourself and not be fallen down. You must continue to live and become what you are set out to be," Kal'Aran told her.

"I-I... Will you train me then?" she asked almost sobbing as she remembered the killings in that day.

"It is what Yandoor would have wanted for sure. Yes, I will take you with me."

The girl got up. Kal'Aran asked her to wait for a few minutes and talked to Doctor Mahara once more. Mahara agreed to set the girl free on Kal'Aran's tutelage after the Jedi Master explained that she was a Jedi Padawan and that she needed to conclude her training.

A few hours later, Kal'Aran was back in his ship with Aurra Sgall, his new Padawan. He thought about how it would be. Only recently had Alisson finished her training and already he had another one to teach. Sometime ago this would not be accepted by the Council, but it was even more dangerous to leave the girl by her own means at this point or she might be lured to the Dark Side...

Two days later they were back at Chimaeria. By that time, Kal'Aran had had enough time to bond with the young girl, and she trusted him. From him she would learn the Jedi ways and become a Jedi like she was meant to be. She wondered what life would be like in this new planet...

---

"A Tour of Amazement"
Ithea, Dark Witch
Location: New Plouton, Tae'Karada
Date: Praeda 15, 4ABY

Ithea walked through New Plouton. On her world, people lived in villages and only congregated in large numbers on special occasions. She looked at the two Empiral guards that followed in her wake. They were really quite annoying. She moved into a thick crowd and stopped beside a statue. To the observant eye, she just faded away. The guards had lost sight of her in the crowd and did not see her disappear. They hurried off to catch up with her. Ithea smiled. She was a partner, not a prisoner. If Tarkin wanted to leash her, he would need better guards. Men were so predictable, they never expected to be challenged.

Once she was sure they were out of sight, she wandered off the other way. She was sure that Tarkin knew where she went. Perhaps, it would be better to blend in. It would be easy for his men to spot a woman dressed in black with her face paint. She thought about it, her vow forbade her to be seen by the freeborn not of her family. But, she was not on her planet now. Perhaps the goddess would forgive her if she chose to blend in. She entered a woman's dress shop. The shop immediately emptied except for the nervous shopkeep.

"You, come here!" she ordered.

"Yes, Ma'am," the little woman said as she quickly scooted in front of the strangely clad woman.

"I want to look like women of this planet. You will assist me," Ithea ordered.

"Well, it will cost a lot of credits," the woman began.

Ithea waved a hand in front of her eyes as she spoke. "You will assist me to the best of your ability."

"I will help you," the woman muttered.

Two hours later, Ithea left the store in a dress, cut very high up both sides. It's dark green color complimented her hair and complexion. Her long hair had been cut a little and now was gathered to one side of her head and fell in a cascade of curls.

Ithea moved down the streets, unaware of the admiring looks that were cast upon her. In her society, women were judged by their skill, not by their looks. Ithea had no idea that by this planet's standards, she was quite good looking. Her hard gaze was the only thing to dampen the picture.

Ithea followed a group of well dressed people into the Segrelat Tower. It was loud and in some strange way, primeval. People danced, though the gyrations of their ritual seemed more designed for mating. Ithea sat down on a stool and watched these people in fascination. She waved away more than one gentleman who offered her a drink. She was not thirsty and so did not accept. With a couple, she was forced to make sure their attention focused elsewhere. Ithea was used to male slaves and so was not confused by the attention. In fact, she expected it.

---

"Chance Meeting, Part 1"
by Kaysa Zenarr
Zale Tregat
Maeren Shivral
Merrick Braston
Location: Shegrelat Tower, New Plouton, Tae'Karada
Date: Praeda 15, 4ABY

***

"Zale!" Kaysa rushed from the elevator before the doors barely slid apart and flew into Zale's arms. She smiled up at him and quickly bombarded his face with kisses. She pulled away once her lips grew numb and slapped him playfully on the chest. "Too busy to see your friends, are you? We've been waiting two days for you to accept our dinner invitation."

Zale laughed. "I'm sorry," he said. "Things have been busy the last couple days. Would you believe one of the crimelords trying to seize control of the planet's underworld launched an attack against one of my transports? Things have been hectic. And, then another sent me an invitation to a masquerade ball he's holding. This place is a real mess. So, how are you?"

"Well, how do I look?" Kaysa took a step back and spun around for Zale. Once she faced him again, her smile softened and she embraced him tenderly. "Everything's perfect, Zale."

"You look happier than I've ever seen you before," he said. "I guess things are working well for you and Merrick, then?"

Another elevator door opened and Merrick and Shiv stepped out. Shiv grinned when she saw Zale, and hurried Merrick along with her. "Hey there, Zale," she said.

Zale laughed. "Hi, Shiv," he said. "And, you must be Merrick Braston."

Shiv took Merrick's hand and pulled him another step forward. She opened her mouth to speak, but thought better of it and turned to Kaysa. She grinned and nodded for Kaysa to do the introductions.

Kaysa stared cluelessly for a moment before heeding Shiv's urgings and springing to life. "Oh my, my manners. Merrick Braston, meet Zale Tregat, ex-lover, current saviour. Zale, meet former ex-lover, current co-lover and singer, Merrick Braston." Kaysa stepped aside and pulled Shiv to join her. "Ok. Have at it, boys."

Merrick laughed and stepped forward as Zale offered a hand to shake. "I've heard much about you," Zale said. "Though, not nearly enough. Kaysa was fairly cryptic in her information about her many relationships. But, everything I have heard has been good. And, I'm glad to see you and Kaysa happy."

"And me," Shiv piped up. "All three of us."

Zale raised an eyebrow. "Really," he said. "That is interesting. Three? I must learn more." He looked at the trio and laughed. "They've already got our table ready if you three are ready to sit."

"Yeah. Come on, Shiv. We'll go ahead of the men so they can talk." Kaysa linked her arm with Shiv's and pulled her along. She looked back at Zale and Merrick and smiled at them. "Go on, boys. Don't be shy. You have a lot in common, and that's mostly Shiv and I."

Merrick and Zale both laughed as they started along behind the two women. They quickly found themselves in a conversation about how they could help really boost Kaysa's confidence in herself and her ability to actually make it on the road she wanted to travel.

"I think she's in a good place now," Zale said. "And, I think you and Shiv are good for her."

"And, they're good for me too," Merrick added as they reached the table. Kaysa and Shiv were already seated and looking at menus.

"So, have you started getting things sorted out at Zenarr Inc, yet?" Zale asked. "Or are you still taking that slow?"

"You've probably already gotten your hands on Zenarr Inc.'s financial statements, so you know things are still shaky." Kaysa refused to let anything, even the monetary troubles she faced with her company, to ruin her evening. She kept her smile warm and bright and was determined not to let it fade. "I know I could use your help in finding ways to increase profits, but I think if I get back into the swing of things, I might be able to save it. I just have to fire one particular employee..." Kaysa muttered. She didn't have to go into detail about that one. Shiv and Zale knew exactly who she was talking about.

Zale nodded. "That's a good idea," he said. "And, I'd do it as soon as possible. And, any help you need, I'm happy to provide. If you need, I can loan you some of my financial planners. They should be able to help you get yourself back on track and heading in the direction you need to go."

"Always so quick to help, Zale Tregat. I think you're a big softie, no matter how cold and hard the facade you present seems." Kaysa looked to Merrick across the table and laughed. "You two are nothing alike. I can't believe I fell for you, Zale," Kaysa teased as she backhanded him in the arm playfully.

Zale laughed. "Well, it could have been the ten million credits I was offering to bail your company out," he said. "Or maybe it was..."

Just then the waiter arrived to take their orders. After the food and fruit drinks (since Kaysa was no longer drinking) were ordered, Zale watched Kaysa for a moment. "You seem much lighter and carefree, and much happier now. If I didn't know the two of you, I could almost mistake you for Shiv."

Kaysa looked at Shiv with a cocked eyebrow, then glanced sideways back at Zale. "I dunno, Zale. My breasts are much bigger. Don't you think, Shiv? I mean your breasts are lovely, perfectly sized for easy groping, but mine are much bigger. What do you think, Merrick?"

Merrick laughed. "I love both of your breasts," he said. "They're my favourite breasts in the universe. And, while Shiv has the perfect size for slipping your hands under her shirt for a quick feel, Kaysa's are just all-around beautiful breasts. I think most women would be envious of your breasts." He smiled. "I could do a touch test, but the other restaurant patrons would probably be too scandalized."

Kaysa looked at Zale and laughed aloud. "Not up to this kind of conversation, Zale? Don't tell me you've gone all modest on us. You were the one, I recall, who practically had sex with Shiv on the dancefloor that first night. Isn't that correct, Shiv?"

Zale laughed. "I'm not bothered by the conversation at all," he said. "If you want to pull your tops off and compare, I won't complain. And, if Shiv were wearing a skirt out on that dancefloor, I think we would have been having sex. And, I have a feeling that if that happened, the rest of the men there would have been emboldened and would have taken a turn too."

Shiv's eyes widened. "Really? Um, well, it's a good thing I wasn't wearing a skirt then."

Kaysa looked to Merrick and tried to stifle a laugh. "Oh, I'm sorry, love. You don't really want to hear this, do you?"

Merrick laughed. "No," he said. "It's perfectly fine. I actually do like hearing what sort of trouble you two have caused around this town. I never expected sex in full view of strangers. Though, I'm not as shocked as I should be for some reason. Then again, Shiv has no inhibitions, so I guess that's to be expected with her."

Shiv giggled. "Don't worry," she said. "You're the only guy I fuck now, and Kaysa's the only girl. So, whoever gets to see me is just seeing what they're missing out on."

"Yeah, I bet Zale's still trying to recover from that loss." Kaysa winked at him and gently placed her hand atop his. "It's a lucky thing we met you that night. I think fate drew you to Shiv and into our lives. I guess...I guess it's a good thing we were there that night, and it was a good thing you followed me around town like you did."

Zale laughed. "I wasn't following you," he said. "You keep saying that. It was all coincidence. The only time I ever went seeking you was the time we met in that alley behind whichever bar that was. The universe works in strange ways, and somehow I was pulled into the orbit of your lives. And, I think it's proven to be a good thing. And, you'd better believe I'm trying to recover." He laughed. "Shiv and I never did finish what we started."

"Oh, that's right!" Kaysa shot Shiv an apologetic expression, then laughed. "That was my fault. Sorry, Shiv. I guess Zale couldn't resist my air of mystery. He really liked having my body all to himself too." Kaysa glanced at Merrick and blushed profusely. "Sorry, my love. I guess you're not enjoying our reminiscing about old times."

Merrick laughed. "I don't mind," he said. "Just as long as Zale isn't getting himself all worked up. You and Shiv can work yourselves up as much as you want since you'll be coming home with me tonight. If the three of you want to reminisce about your wild and carefree times, that's fine with me. As long as it's just reminiscing and nothing more."

"You know you have nothing to worry about, Merrick. I'm not Zale's type anymore. Isn't that right?" Kaysa turned to Zale and smiled. "That is right, isn't it? I mean, I always thought you liked the elusive type, the exciting type, a woman with fire... I'm not exactly any of those things anymore."

Zale laughed. "Sure you are," he said. "Though, I try to avoid getting involved with women who are already happily involved with someone else. And, while I was attracted to your other qualities, those breasts of yours helped too."

"Zale!" Kaysa scowled playfully, then smiled and wrapped her arms around Zale's neck. "Thanks." She kissed him upon the cheek and whispered into his ear so Shiv and Merrick couldn't hear. "So if I wasn't involved, we would still be having mad, rough sex? I knew you still desired me."

Zale laughed softly. "Was there ever a doubt," he whispered back. "But you're better where you're at now."

"I know, Zale," she said quietly. She looked into his eyes and remembered how impenetrable they had been to her all those times they were together. Now, though, as friends, they seemed to open up to her and give her glimpses of who he was. He didn't seem so intimidating anymore, which only made her care for him more. She ran her hand along his cheek and pressed her lips to his in a gentle kiss. "This really is better now. Less painful and...this way, you'll like me a lot more than you ever could have the bitch I was."

Zale laughed. "You know," he said, "in the time I've known you, I don't think I ever heard you truly laugh. You have a beautiful laugh when you're happy."

"Maybe someday, I can make you laugh like that." Kaysa smiled shyly and finally pulled away, remembering they weren't the only ones at the table. She looked to Merrick and Shiv, then laughed nervously. "Sorry. Zale and I were just having...a moment."

Shiv grinned. "We noticed," she said. "We were just commenting on how cute you two looked with your heads pressed together like that whispering. Merrick was starting to get worried that we were gonna have to get a bigger bed the way you two were all close and whispery and kissy."

Merrick laughed. "I was not. I didn't say anything like that. You were the one wondering if he was going to grab Kaysa's boob and neither of us said anything about a bed."

"You two are horrible!" Kaysa laughed and looked down at her breasts. "They are kinda irresistible, aren't they?" She looked sternly at Zale and attempted to suppress her smile as she asked, "You weren't gonna grab them, were you, Zale? Prove Shiv wrong and assuage Merrick's fears, will you?"

Zale held his hands up where everyone could see them. "I'm not grabbing anything," he said. "My hands know they're not allowed to venture into forbidden territory and are behaving themselves." He laughed and glanced over at Kaysa. "I would only ever do that if I had been invited to."

"I seem to recall somebody walking onto a dancefloor in some sleazy club one night and slipping his hands into somebody's vest and groping her breasts." Kaysa glanced accusingly from Shiv to Zale, and smiled wickedly. "I recall that, but I could be wrong since you said you'd never do that unless invited to. So, I could be wrong."

"First of all, if she'd bothered to close up the vest, I wouldn't have slipped my hands inside. And, second, are you saying that Shiv, dancing around like that wearing only a vest that flew open with every move, wasn't giving me an invitation? I think she was inviting anyone daring enough to touch her to do so. Now, I'm not saying that anyone that displays their body in public is sending out invites to any man willing to touch, but Shiv was definitely dancing around saying 'one of you is going to get very lucky with me tonight.'"

Shiv giggled and threw her napkin down on the table in protest. "Hey!"

Zale turned to Kaysa. "Tell me she wasn't," he said with a wicked grin.

Kaysa's mouth twitched with a suppressed grin as she looked at Shiv. Unable to contain it, she laughed aloud uncontrollably and fell against Zale as the laughter consumed her. "Alright, yes! She went there that night wearing almost nothing to pick up some men. You were the only one daring enough to actually grab her bare breasts."

"Only when invited," Zale said again with a laugh. "And, I don't think I've ever seen a woman offer more invitations to touch her breasts than Shiv was that night. You're going to have to keep an eye on her or else you're gonna run into some problems."

Shiv laughed. "Hey," she said. "Watch the disparaging remarks there, Zale. I don't do that kind of thing anymore. Kaysa and Merrick are the only ones allowed under my skirt or in my vest now."

"Now that, Zale," Kaysa said as she patted his back, "is what you call an invitation."

Zale chuckled. "That was definitely an invitation, but I would recommend not taking her up on it here. They're somewhat socially conservative here. They abide the Karadan dress, but don't exactly go in for touchy-feely behaviour."

As he finished, the waiter arrived with their food. He gave Zale's comments a disapproving glare and with a grumbling sight, proceeded to lay out the food before them. It appeared to be quite a feast and far more food than they could realistically consume in one sitting.

"Oh my," Kaysa said as she stared down into her plate. "Who's paying for this? See, Shiv, we have a dilemma here. Two very handsome men, both very wealthy... They're gonna have to fight over the honour to pay for our dinner."

Merrick laughed. "This is on my tab," he said. "Since the dinner is to thank Zale, I'm paying. I don't think it'd be very much thanks if we took him to dinner and made him pay. Though, I do get to go home with the girls."

Shiv giggled. "You two can fight over us you know," she said. "It'd be very sexy to have Merrick and Zale wrestling through the dessert cart for us."

"Oh, Merrick is quite the capable fighter. I've seen him in a barfight and he held his own...until that beast threw him over the bar, but it was a very valiant effort, my love." Kaysa smiled tenderly at Merrick and blew him a kiss. "I even got to clean up his wounds. Have you thanked me for that, by the way, Merrick?"

"I don't think I have," Merrick said with a chuckle. "You'll have to remind me to do that tonight."

Shiv giggled. "I bet I could take Merrick. I think we should all cover ourselves in oil and have a big wrestling match. See who comes out the winner. It'd probably be Zale though. He's all big and muscular, and could probably take care of the three of us oil or no."

"I'm sure you'd enjoy that immensely, Shiv. Any opportunity that requires you to take your clothes off appeals to you." Kaysa began cutting through her food and glanced up at Shiv, who was opening her mouth to speak again. "I don't think so, Shiv! Not another word from you. You're getting the men worked up and that really isn't fair to Zale. He can't touch us, remember, and all this mention about naked bodies writhing together in a vat of oil isn't helping him at all. Is it, Zale?"

Zale laughed and glanced at Shiv and then Kaysa. He made a visible show of shifting in his chair. "As I said, you're gonna have to watch her. She'll walk down a street in any district and leave a trail of hard-ons in her wake. I'm surprised you haven't taken up the native style yet. Going around wearing an equadi."

"I'd rather walk through the streets naked than wear that sexist, flimsy excuse for a dress. That's just the male dominated high prince and those who think like him trying to put women in their place. At least if I go naked it's for my own thrills, not for someone else's. Sure, they'll have some thrills, but I wouldn't have fun wearing one of those dresses."

Zale nodded. "What do you think, Kaysa? Would she? Regardless of the stigma of what the equadi is?"

"No matter what she tells you," Kaysa said as she fixed her eyes on Shiv's with a smile, "she enjoys stirring up trouble. If you dared her to, she'd walk out in an equadi and keep track of how many men followed her home. She's an exhibitionist, but I doubt an equadi is revealing enough to her. That's the only reason she doesn't wear one. It covers too much flesh."

Shiv giggled. "I wear no transparent clothes," she said. She stood from her chair so everyone could see. "Long skirt all the way down to the tops of my boots and a top that doesn't even show the cleavage I don't have. I'm perfectly covered and concealed beneath my clothing. You're all just upset because I'm not sitting here completely naked for your enjoyment."

"Shiv, dear, sit down before you get the urge to strip off all your clothes and prove yourself right." Kaysa reached across and tapped Shiv's plate with her fork. "Sit down and eat. With your mouth stuffed full, you won't be able to say a word."

Shiv giggled and sat down again. "You never let me have any fun," she said playfully. She didn't waste time digging into her food, and soon thoughts of equadi and stripping down to nothing were dashed from her mind.

As they ate, Merrick reached a hand out and slipped it into Kaysa's. He leaned close and smiled as he planted a gentle kiss on her cheek. "Do you want to bet that before we leave this restaurant someone in here will end up seeing more of Shiv than her clothes are covering?"

"I doubt we can prevent it." Kaysa kissed Merrick back and laughed softly. "We are really gonna have to watch her. She's far too wild and carefree. She's gonna end up getting herself hauled away by the Morality Guard if she's not careful."

Merrick laughed. "Might serve the Morality Guard some good to spend a night with Shiv. I'm sure after a few hours around her, the stick they have shoved up their collective asses might slip out. Though, I don't think they deserve even a few minutes with someone like her. I don't think it'll ever be a problem but we may have to watch to make sure she doesn't get too affectionate with anyone else. I don't know if she'd go with anyone other than us, but with her, you never know."

"Oh, she'd never be unfaithful, Merrick. She may be completely wild when it comes to sex, but I think she has some discipline." Kaysa glanced over at Shiv, then back to Merrick with a worried smile. "Ok, we'll take shifts watching her. We never let her out of our sight, and she can't leave the house without three-quarters of her body covered in clothing."

Merrick watched Shiv for a moment as she looked up and glanced at him. When her eyes met his, he felt his heart skip a beat. He kissed Kaysa gently. "I think we're safe with her," he said. "Just look at the way she looks at you or at me, and I think it's pretty certain that we're the only ones. She may be wild and love to run around without clothes on, but I think she'd only ever sleep with us." He glanced back and Shiv grinned at him. "Though, I have a suspicion if we told her it was okay to be with someone else, she would; but only if she was certain we were okay with it."

"I think you're right. Who would pass up a chance to sleep in a bed with a handsome man and a beautiful woman every night? Both of whom, by the way, are very experienced in the art of stimulating ecstasy." Kaysa kissed Merrick for a long moment, and when their lips parted, she laughed. "However, if we're ever in any doubt, we can always give her a demonstration to remind her what she'd be missing if she cheated on us."

"After this conversation, I think she should have a reminder tonight," Merrick said. "Just so she knows where true happiness and bliss lie. I think we can convince her, but it may take both of us ganging up on her to prove our point. You up for that, my dear?"

"Oh, definitely, my love." Kaysa smiled mischievously as her hand dropped into Merrick's lap. "Definitely up to it," she said silkily while sliding her hand along his thigh.

Merrick kissed Kaysa again and moved his lips to her ear. "What are you planning on doing with that hand while we're here at the table eating? And, how would you like me to start doing that to you while you're eating?" He gave her a playful grin.

"I hadn't planned on anything yet. But I can refrain until we get home. Unlike Shiv, I can control my urges." Kaysa looked down into Merrick's lap and pulled her hand away with a smile. "Unfortunately, you seem to be having trouble doing the same. I suggest you place your napkin in your lap to conceal that."

"Just be glad I'm not going to suggest that you finish what you started," Merrick said as he adjusted his napkin to cover Kaysa's handiwork. "Just wait 'til I get you home," he added before placing a sensuous kiss on her neck. "Now, eat your dinner or we'll never get out of here."

"Yes, sir," Kaysa said playfully as she turned back to her meal and began digging into it, but not before glancing sideways at Merrick and shooting him a suggestive smile.

***

Shiv looked out over the table and realized they'd made quite a dent in the collection of food. She looked up at Kaysa and Merrick who were still occasionally muttering to each other in low tones. She and Zale had talked briefly between bites of food, but the conversation had died down as they tried to determine if any more of the food outside would fit inside. Shiv laughed and looked around. "I can't eat another bite," she said. "If I do, I'll probably just burst out of my clothes."

"And wouldn't that just be a shame, Shiv," Kaysa teased. "You've been waiting to get out of your clothes all night. I think you're stuffing your face so when your clothes do come off, you'll have a justifiable excuse. Naughty girl."

Shiv giggled. "Okay," she said. "I'll do my best to keep my clothes on until I get safely home. Though, I can't make any promises. I think I'm going to have to just sit here for a bit. I don't think I'll be able to move for another ten minutes. That soupy stuff was just so rich. I will take some more of that juice the next time the waiter comes by though."

"Talking about that soupy stuff," Kaysa said as she held her stomach, "I think I need to take a trip to the ladies room. Are you gonna stay here or did you wanna come, Shiv? A better question is, do either of you gentlemen wanna join me?" she asked slyly.

Zale started to stand at Kaysa's suggestion, but then sat back and laughed. "I think I'll pass," he said. "I don't think it would be proper for me to join you in the ladies room."

Merrick laughed. "Will you be alright going alone?"

Shiv slapped his arm. "Who said she's going alone?"

Merrick looked at Shiv and shook his head. "Who just finished saying she wasn't going to move?"

"Oh...um, well...I'll go if Kaysa needs help with her panty hose."

Kaysa rose with a laugh and quickly flashed Shiv some of her thigh. "Unfortunately, I'm not wearing any, my dear. I guess you'll just have to stay here and entertain the men...but not that kind of entertainment!" Kaysa smiled and made her rounds, planting a kiss upon the lips of her three companions at the table. "I'll be back sooner or later," she said as she sauntered off towards the bathroom facilities.

Shiv giggled as she watched Kaysa go. She had an urge to whistle, but refrained. She figured she'd probably kill both Zale and Merrick with embarrassment doing that. So, instead she turned back to them. "So," she said, "how is Moril doing, Zale? When we left that night, I thought he was going to bundle me up in warm clothes and ask to come round so he could cut my food for me."

Zale laughed. "I think in a previous life Moril was a female bantha with a very large brood. He's an amazing man, and invaluable to me as an assistant, but I have never seen anyone fuss over things more than he does."

With the food more or less finished, there was little else to do but talk, so they did. The only other option, playfully suggested by Shiv, was quickly rejected by both men. She tried to convince them she wasn't serious in suggesting that they have sex on the table, but they wouldn't believe her after earlier conversation. She pouted for a short time, while Zale and Merrick talked some business. While they chatted, Shiv took the time to look around the room as she wondered what was taking Kaysa.

---

"Chance Meeting, Part 2"
by Kaysa Zenarr
Zale Tregat
Maeren Shivral
Merrick Braston
Ithea Tass
and Rennor Karradas [NPC]

Location: Shegrelat Tower, New Plouton, Tae'Karada
Date: Praeda 15, 4ABY

***

Ithea had found a room where the ladies were going to relieve themselves having the need herself. It was a strange room with individual stalls. It was quite luxurious for a room to devoid in. She moved to the sinks and stared at the strange contraption. Unlike the palace, the knobs when turned did not produce water. She was frowning at the sink, trying to discern how to turn it on. She tried pushing on the faucet and then the top of the knobs but nothing. Her hand passed in front of the knob and water for a short second flowed. It startled Ithea and she jumped backwards.

"Um, too hot?" Kaysa had been watching the woman as she fought to turn on the water, which she now almost appeared to be frightened of. Kaysa examined the dress the woman had on, and raised an eyebrow at the scandalous amount of flesh that was exposed. She couldn't help thinking she shouldn't have bothered to wear one at all with the amount of skin that was actually covered. The woman was more daring and bold than she thought herself to be, and not to mention very odd. "Are you having a bit of trouble there?" she asked slowly.

"Yes, the water seems to have free will." Ithea looked at the woman who had spoken. Her stance was one of an equal. Ithea relaxed for she was tired. She pushed her curled hair with irritation back over her shoulder.

Kaysa's expression was now one of curiousity as she eyed the woman. She leaned back against the sink and smiled slowly at her. "Free will... I thought that was strictly an ability harboured by humans and other sentient beings. But I guess a water tap could...sort of...develop such an ability..." Kaysa laughed softly and placed her hand under the woman's tap. "See, you place your hand here, and as long as it's there, the water keeps flowing. I don't exactly know how it works, but there's a little sensor there and...well...you get the gist of it."

Ithea placed her hand in amazement under the tap and her eyes opened wide in amazement as water began to flow. This place continued to afford one surprise after another. Nightsisters killed one another so often that progress on her planet was slow at best, while they had stolen necessary technology to communicate with other necessary worlds, in the villages, life was still fairly primitive. But then, that was also part of their training. She slowly washed her hands, moving her them in and out of the faucet's sensor with amazement. "I thank you for your assistance." Ithea's voice had a strange lilt to it, almost a musical quality.

"My pleasure..." Kaysa couldn't take her eyes from the strange woman. She looked human enough, but she acted as if she'd been locked in a cellar her entire life, leaving her bereft of even the basic knowledge necessary to work a tap. She sounded intelligent too, but she had to wonder about someone who had never seen running water before. "So...you're not from Tae'Karada, are you? I mean you certainly dress like a Tae'Karadan female, but, well..." Kaysa motioned her eyes towards the tap and chuckled quietly.

"I am from Dushoulle. I am a nigh... Ummm I am a traveler." Ithea thought it better not to tell what she really was.

"Dushoulle?" Kaysa scanned her memory quickly, but the name didn't even sound familiar to her. "I've never heard of that place. Is it in the outer rim? Not that I know all of the planets in the outer rim, but..." Kaysa pursed her lips shut for a moment to keep herself from rambling, then smiled pleasantly at the woman. "So, you're a traveller. I must say, Tae'Karada wasn't exactly the best place to visit. With the recent Imperial threat here, I thought most people would want to steer clear of the planet. Are you here for any particular reason...or am I being too intrusive?"

"I did not mean to be here," Ithea answered honestly. "But it now serves my purpose to be so."

Kaysa stared in bewilderment at the woman, whose responses were entirely cryptic to her. She wasn't certain if she was trying to hide something, or if she merely didn't feel comfortable conversing with strangers and giving them details about things that were only her concern. Kaysa, however, enjoyed intruding into people's personal affairs; it was a favourite hobby of hers. "Your purpose...would that be business? I'm a kind of business woman myself you know. I run my own company down in the Yallder district."

"You must be a woman of property then. How many slaves do you keep? I had twenty seven males until I came here," Ithea asked with interest. It seemed that many of the women on this planet were little better than slaves. It was interesting to meet one with more potential and self assuredness.

Kaysa's smile broadened as she heard that. "Male slaves, eh? Now I truly am intrigued." She shifted closer to the woman. "On Tae'Karada, no one actually keeps males as slaves but I've always thought they certainly are only good for one thing, if you get my meaning." Kaysa laughed and pushed herself up onto the sink. "I actually run a courier business but yours sounds more interesting. On your planet, it's legal to keep slaves? Oh to have them obey your every whim, to have them always at your service...oh the things I could do with a male slave...or to for that matter."

"A male is not suffered to live unless as a slave on Dushoulle. They serve many purposes, including hard labor." Ithea was forced to smile at the thoughts passing through the young woman's head. "So tell me Kaysa, what is a courier?" Ithea used Kaysa's name as if they had been introduced.

"I'm guessing you don't have those on your planet either." Kaysa smiled kindly, although she couldn't help thinking how a planet evolved enough to realize a man's purpose was to serve a woman, didn't have any courier businesses. Dushoulle must be some wasteland, she thought to herself. "Well, a courier ships items to and from planets. Not the kind of hard labour the men on your planet are subjected to, but it has its moments." Kaysa's smile slowly waned, and she looked at the woman inquisitively. "I knew I was forgetting something...we haven't exactly been introduced." Kaysa held out her hand to the woman, but her face still held a puzzled expression. "Kaysa Zenarr...but it would appear you already know that."

"I am Ithea Tass." Ithea looked at the woman's hand with a question and stuck hers out in the same posture, not touching Kaysa's hand. She did not explain how she had known Kaysa's name.

Kaysa's gaze shifted from her hand and the woman's, hanging suspended in the air, then back to the woman's face. Did they have physical contact on her planet? With male slaves running around, Kaysa thought it a pity if they didn't. She laughed dryly and closed the distance between their hands. She gripped the woman's gently and shook it. "A handshake...but I guess your culture has a different method of greeting people, am I right?"

Ithea chuckled, thinking of the many times she had been met, daggers drawn. "In a manner of speaking. You have a party waiting?" She could sense that Kaysa had come with others. "You have come to join the mating rituals?"

Kaysa slapped her hand over her mouth quickly before the laugh rising in her throat erupted. She swallowed it back as best she could and finally let her hand fall away. "Mating rituals?" she repeated in a voice ready to be consumed by laughter. "I...what do you mean? I'm afraid to ask what constitutes a mating ritual on your planet."

"I have been watching. Men approach women, they move to the music and then they leave together. They did not arrive together and one can tell by their behavour that they are leaving to mate. Have I read this wrong?" Ithea flushed with irritation that she might have erred.

Kaysa finally abandoned all efforts to contain her laughter and let it echo through the small room. "That's called dancing. It's just something people do for fun. Yes, it can be construed as a sort of mating ritual in the sense that it can bring a man and woman closer together... I know I've danced with men before solely for the purpose of luring him into my bed..." Kaysa bit her lip before she told Ithea her entire life story. "I guess you're right. It is a mating ritual of sorts. I suppose on your planet things are a bit different. Women choose the men instead of it being a mutual choice. Right?"

"Yes, women pick whichever slaves they wish to warm them. Sometimes they choose more than one," Ithea said with a thoughtful smile. "Women on my planet choose mates and not .. hussebands. A woman may have more than one mate. A man has only one mistress," Ithea explained.

"Reminds me of the relationship I'm in..." Kaysa muttered. "I must admit, your culture is certainly different, but I think something like that could certainly catch on here on Tae'Karada. The women here have been oppressed for centuries, but I figure I've done my part to help them rise against their oppressors. See, before I met my boyfriend, I enjoyed the odd..." Kaysa paused and laughed. "Ok, I enjoyed frequently bringing men home for a night and tossing them away. There's no point keeping a man around if the only thing he's gonna do is leave you. Might as well beat them to it, right?"

"Women allow men to leave them? Why do they just not kill them?" Ithea's eyes opened wide in surprised.

Kaysa's eyes shot open just as wide as she regarded the woman with a surprised stare. "You...is that what..." Kaysa took a deep breath and managed to regain her ability to speak after a moment. "Well...on Tae'Karada it's sort of illegal to go around murdering people. I guess murdering men is a common practice on your planet? I'm also assuming your entire planet is run by women, unless your ruler really hates members of his own sex."

"We are ruled by a queen," Ithea agreed. "A slave's life is of no consequence. If a mistress chooses to dispose of one, none weep the loss." She smiled and then grimaced. "How do you wear such shoes for long?" Ithea was used to simple sandals or bare feet.

Kaysa looked down at her feet dangling from the edge of the sink and shrugged. "You get used to it, I guess." Kaysa looked up at the woman inquisitively, then hopped off the sink. "Are you here with anyone? I mean, I'd really like to introduce you to my friends. They'll be wondering where I am, but I just have so many questions about your world. Besides, I think a friend of mine would really find you appealing, especially with that dress on. I kind of owe him a big debt, and well, I think introducing you to him would certainly pay that off."

"If you think introductions will pay your debt then I would be honored. I have no...acquaintances that I wish to rejoin," Ithea answered truthfully. "My time is my own till I choose to return to where I have left."

"Ooh! Great. Zale's really gonna thank me for this." Kaysa laughed softly and started towards the door, motioning for Ithea to follow. "Believe me, you'll find him to be a perfect specimen of a man. He's very...talented...in many many ways," Kaysa said with an allusive smile.

"He is obedient as well?" Ithea asked following Kaysa. "I have found many males on this planet to be quite rude and insolent."

"Tell me about it. My fiancé is a prime example of that...the sexist..." Kaysa held the door open for Ithea and followed closely beside her as she exited. "He likes to be in control, that's true, but if you know how to handle a headstrong, dominant man like him, you'll soon find you can have him wrapped around your finger and begging you for more." Kaysa felt her cheeks growing warm and laughed aloud. "It's a kind of give and take thing with him. You submit for a while, and in return, you get free rein of his body when it's your turn."

"I don't know of such things," Ithea answered with a frown. "Why would I submit to get his body when he should submit to get mine?"

"My sentiments exactly," Kaysa said emphatically. "It's some power trip thing with him. In his line of work, he needs to present himself as this commanding figure. I guess that attitude just carries over into the bedroom. Don't worry though, it's definitely worth it."

Ithea was wary as they approached the table. She stood back a distance to allow Kaysa to make the introduction. Maybe meeting others in a group was not a good idea. She had really planned to just watch, to learn.

Kaysa looked down at the three heads suddenly turning to face her. Their eyes instantly wandered to the provocatively clad woman beside her and with a laugh, she stood aside and pushed Ithea forward. "Look what I found in the bathroom. Everyone, this is Ithea Tass. Ithea, this is Merrick, Shiv, and this over here," Kaysa said with a smile, "is Zale."

Ithea's eyes roamed slowly over all of them before they came to rest on Zale. She looked over her shoulder at Kaysa. "You are right, he is a fine specimen for a man." Her words were lazily spoken and held no insult. Her sky blue eyes met his once more without fear or challenge. She did not look away.

Zale stood from his place and nodded. "Miss Tass," he said. "It is good to meet you. If we make some room here at the table, would you care to join us?"

"I believe that was the idea," Ithea said with a nod of her head. She waited till room was made and then she sat down beside Zale.

Seeing that her place next to Zale was now occupied, Kaysa took a seat between Shiv and Merrick. She smiled at them mischievously and leaned over as she said, "Did you see how they looked at each other? I should fix up people more often."

Merrick glanced at Kaysa with amusement and chuckled. "Why don't we see how things work out with these two before going into the matchmaking business," he said.

Shiv giggled softly. "I think it's cute," she said. "I mean, look at how he's looking at her. It probably helps that she's not leaving anything to the imagination with that dress." She glanced over at Merrick, grinned and turned back to Kaysa. "If I ever want to seduce Merrick again, I know what to do."

"Or throw your panties at him again," Kaysa added with a playful smile.

Zale watched the woman with amusement. He glanced toward Kaysa with a raised eyebrow. Once the table had been adjusted and Ithea was seated at his side, he turned to her. "So," he said after a sip of the fruit juice he was drinking. "So, Ithea, what is it that you do?"

"I do? I do what ever I wish," Ithea answered in confusion. She looked at Zale, her sky blue eyes clouded with obvious question.

"Ithea is a traveller, Zale," Kaysa offered from across the table. "Doesn't that sound interesting?" Kaysa hinted with her eyes for Zale to pursue the subject. They definitely want each other, she commented to herself with a satisfied smile.

"Must be quite a life," Zale said. "So, where have you travelled? I've actually seen a good deal of the Outer Rim myself. I'm forced to travel frequently on business matters."

"I am from Dushoulle. Until recently, my travels have been close to home," Ithea offered suddenly more cautious. There was something about this man. He reminded her of the Eole Wolf of her planet, beautiful to look upon but deadly should you cross their path.

"Ooh, Ithea," Kaysa called from across the table. "Tell him about the male slave thing. This is my favourite part," she said almost excitedly.

Ithea flashed Kaysa an irritated look. "It is true, our society is matriarchal in nature and that men serve women." She was not sure she wished to rub into a room full of men, how many men she personally had owned.

Zale looked around the room and laughed. "That's kind of like it is here," he said. "Though, the women aren't exactly called slaves, but when you peel enough layers from this society that's what they are. Made to dress like they are, serving without question. They just aren't given chains and collars. If Kaysa were to marry her fiancé, that would basically be her new role in society. To talk to him, he's the gentlemen of gentlemen. Courteous to a fault, considerate in all things, but really he's just the same sexist norga as any other Karadan male, at least the transplanted ones."

Ithea looked at Kaysa with a frown. "Why would you willingly submit to slavery? Even free caught males do not willingly submit to slavery." Ithea thought this very odd and not fitting the personality of the woman she had spoken with in the bathroom.

Kaysa laughed uncomfortably and took a sip of her fruit juice, wishing it were a glass of wine right now. She swished it around slowly in her mouth before swallowing it and smiling tightly. "It's all one big, complicated mess actually. See, I don't really wanna marry the guy..." Kaysa gave a dry laugh and cleared her throat. "Well...he didn't mean literally a slave...did you, Zale?"

Zale shook his head. "The form of slavery that exists on this planet isn't actually slavery, not as you probably know it. It's more of a societal condition that has become accepted over generations. Personally, I think it all stems from a high prince who had a small penis, but maybe I'm off base there. While my comments may make the culture here appear quite simple, it is anything but. Especially with so many off-worlders here now. The Karadans don't like so many people from other worlds here. They feel it dilutes what they had. Though, you really only ever hear from men as they walk by fewer and fewer native clothing shops." He glanced at Ithea. "It appears you were fairly quick to adopt the native garb." He then glanced to Kaysa and Shiv who were not wearing the transparent fabric, and he doubted would ever be caught in such a garment.

"I wanted to fit in and I found this outfit, flattering to my own feelings of beauty. I could care less what anyone else sees or thinks of it," Ithea answered confidently. Her eyes met Zale's. "I do not answer to anyone whom I do not owe a life favor." She accepted a glass of juice from the waitress. "Kaysa, one should not mate with a male that one does not desire above all other things." Even on her planet, one did not choose as a "mate," a male that only temporarily fulfilled a need.

Kaysa couldn't help suddenly feeling as if she were in the spotlight now, and once again, to hide her awkwardness, she laughed nervously. "I know, ideally, you should share yourself with a person you love deeply, but this isn't exactly an ideal world in any sense. Sex means different things to different people. I mean, before today, I used it as punishment and to manipulate people. Now, though, I use it as an expression of my love and affection to those I care deeply about." Kaysa glanced to Shiv and Merrick, and underneath the table, she placed each of her hands atop theirs and squeezed them gently. "Besides," she added as she focused on Ithea again, "I don't sleep with my fiancé anymore. He's a sexist nerf."

"Then why join with him as a mate?" This confused Ithea totally. Why would a woman join with a man she did not intend to have sex with? She turned to Zale. "And if you care for this woman and males are not subservient, why do you allow her to do this?" She found this very confusing.

Zale shrugged. "Kaysa is her own woman," he said. "She does what she wants to do, just as any of us here at this table do. She chose to involve herself with her fiancé for her own reasons, and while I think the man is a pathetic waste of humanity that I wouldn't fertilize my crops with...if I had any crops..., I'm not going to deny Kaysa the right to make her own choices." He looked to Kaysa, who was watching him but he could tell from hers and Merrick and Shiv's body language, that there was more going on over there under the table. "And, the universe is not static. While she agreed to marry this man, her life has gone in a different direction and her reasons for marrying him are no longer valid. There are more reasons to associate with someone than merely sex. However, I don't feel it my place to go into details about Kaysa's relationships. Within some societies there are reasons for marriage other than love and sex, especially within New Plouton where empires and alliances are forged and broken daily."

Ithea said nothing at first. She could read the different emotions around the table except for Zale. His mind seemed cloaked from her. She decided perhaps she should go. There was clearly more here than met the eye and she was the outsider. She drained her juice and stood. "Well, it was nice to meet you all. Kaysa, I hope that you follow a path clearly chosen from your desires." She nodded to the couple across from her. She turned to look at Zale. "Your acquaintance has been...intriguing." She held out her hand as Kaysa had done in the restroom.

Zale reached out and took Ithea's hand. His mouth quirked into a smile and he placed a kiss just in the center of it. "If you must go," he said. "It has been a pleasure, Ithea Tass. Perhaps we shall meet again to discuss the culture of this planet, or other things."

Ithea's eyes widened as a strange jolt of almost electricity hit her center at the touch of his lips on her skin. Her eyes flew to Kaysa's in surprise and then back to Zale's. "I...I would like that. How do I find you?" She knew she could not tell him how to find her. At the palace, she was simply the witch.

Zale pulled a small plastic card from inside of his jacket and handed it to her. "My comm code is on there," he said. "That's my office here in New Plouton. Wherever I am, they should be able to connect me to you."

"Oh, and if you wanna contact me, just...well...just ask Zale. He'll give you all the info you need when you contact him." Kaysa nudged Shiv and smiled at her excitedly. Her first attempt at matchmaking appeared to have been a success. She couldn't wait to find the next eligible woman for Zale. Kaysa looked back at Ithea with a pleasant smile and said, "Also, you can come down to Zenarr Inc. anytime. We can chat more about male sex slaves. It really is an intriguing topic."

Shiv giggled. "Maybe we could use a few of those male sex slaves around the apartment," she said. Feeling Merrick's eyes on her, she blushed. "For chores and things. You know you're the only man in my life. But you have to admit, Kaysa and I have been keeping you busy lately. They'd just give you a chance to catch your breath, my love. I think maybe a few at the office would be nice too. I think it could be quite profitable here on Tae'Karada. I imagine the women would be all for having men at their beck and call, to do whatever they want." She leaned over and kissed Merrick tenderly as she gazed up into his eyes, and then he smiled. "You know I'm kidding," she said. "And, for me, it's only you and Kaysa." She grinned. "And maybe that waitress that keeps filling my glass." To the look she got from both Kaysa and Merrick, she giggled. "Kidding."

Ithea smiled. "I only have three slaves with me at this time. But perhaps I can arrange to bring them for a visit." Ithea put the comm card in the pouch at her waist. "I will be in contact, Zale. I think further discussions may interest me. However, my host is most likely concerned about my absence and I must return."

Zale smiled. "I hope to see you again," he said. "Your planet sounds like a very interesting place, though not one I'm sure I would be wont to visit. I'd like to hear more about you and your homeworld next time we can speak. Have a good night, Ithea Tass."

"Yeah, bye, Ithea!" As she glossed over her figure again, Kaysa nodded in approval. She'd definitely chosen correctly and knew Zale would compliment her on her taste when Ithea left. She smiled broadly and winked at Zale before returning her gaze to Ithea. "I hope we can make your acquaintance again very soon, Ithea," she sang happily.

Ithea nodded once more and then slipped into the milling crowd. She would return to the dress shop and change back.

Zale looked over at Kaysa and her partners in crime. "Did you plan that meeting from the start, or was it actually a chance occurrence?"

Kaysa chewed her lip for a moment to restrain the laugh that was erupting within her, then she said as sincerely as she could manage, "Zale, I swear, I found her in the bathroom! I was washing my hands and she appeared to be having some trouble working the faucet, so I helped her and it just all lead up to this." Kaysa finally allowed herself a slow smile. "So, did you like her?"

Zale laughed. "She's an attractive woman, but she's...she's a little backwards. But that could just be her homeworld. But, in the future," he added with a grin, "I'm sure I can find my own women, Kaysa." He chuckled and took a sip of his water. "I liked her dress."

"Of course you did," Kaysa muttered. She shot Shiv a conspiratorial smile, then turned to Merrick, and almost grimaced as he shot her a disapproving frown. It seemed neither he nor Zale were very excited about the whole matchmaking idea, but she could tell Shiv was akin to it. "Fine," Kaysa said, still wearing her smile. "No more matchmaking. I'll let you find your own women, even though you'll fail miserably without my help."

Shiv gave Kaysa a look that clearly said, 'Like hell we're gonna stop' and then turned back to Zale with a look of pure innocence. "No more matchmaking," she said to echo Kaysa. "None at all. We'll just let you flounder your way through the singles bars and Grid dating services. I think she liked you though, Zale. Did you see the way she did that electricity up the spine thing when he kissed her hand. Oh, there were sparks flying there. Just like when Merrick puts his...well, let's just say there were lots of sparks."

Kaysa turned back to Zale and couldn't help but laugh at the sudden scowl crossing his face. "Oh Zale you know you liked her! She is just your type. I got you into bed wearing far more clothing than she had on and I was less intriguing than she is. Maybe she can make you a male slave. Wouldn't that be fun?"

Zale glanced at Merrick, then back at Kaysa and Shiv. "I think that Merrick should put the two of you into equadi and follow three paces behind him. Wouldn't that be fun?" He chuckled. "I doubt the two of you would last long wearing native attire."

"Hey," Shiv cried. "I'm the one that picked you up in that bar nearly topless, remember?"

Zale laughed again. "Naked is far more clothed than wearing an equadi. Every woman I've ever talked to that wears one says they feel completely exposed. And, you can't exactly hide a dagger in one of those things."

Kaysa glanced at Shiv, knowing the reference was meant specifically for her. Zale could tease all he wanted, but he wasn't going to deter them from meddling in the affairs of his love life. "Fine. We'll make you a deal then. Let Shiv and I fix you up with women and...if you're not pleased with our progress we'll...we'll be your slaves for a week. You can put us in equadi, make us walk around naked, whatever you wish. Just let us have a chance. I mean, I found you Ithea, didn't I? I think I've got a talent for it."

Zale laughed. "So, fix me up with women? So, for each woman of your choosing that I'm not pleased with, I have the two of you for a week? No sex of course, unless Merrick gives his blessing. But other than that you'll just do whatever I ask of you for a week. I'll have quarters prepared for you in my offices, or at my apartment. But, for a week, you will be my servants. Deal?"

Kaysa suddenly regretted her offer. The look on Zale's face indicated he would have far too much fun ordering them around. She looked to Shiv with an uncertain smile. "What do you think, Shiv? It could be fun...I guess."

Shiv grinned. They knew the kind of women Zale liked, it would be simple. "We can't go wrong on this," she said. "We'll have a little harem for Lord Zale before the end of the month, and he'll be indebted to us forever. I think he'll have a good long time before he ever sees either of us in an equadi."

Kaysa smiled triumphantly and looked boldly to Zale. "And that means no cheating, Zale! You can't purposefully reject the women we choose just to get us into those skimpy equadi. Got it?"

Zale laughed. "Okay," he said. "No cheating. I give you my word that I will tell you honestly if any of the women you choose for me appeal to me. And, if I say they don't, then you have my word that they don't. So no cheating on your parts to stay out of those skimpy equadi. We have a deal then. I can't wait to see your first attempt." He chuckled and took a sip of his water.

"Well, did you like Ithea?" Kaysa asked with a cocked eyebrow. "If not, then she doesn't count."

"She was a very interesting woman," Zale said. "I think a little more time living in a technologically advanced society would make her a little more appealing. Though, coming from where she comes from I don't know if Tae'Karada's the place for her. She comes from a matriarchal society and now finds herself in the polar opposite. If the treatment of men on her planet is worse than the women here, I really feel sorry for anyone there. I can't imagine a wider gender gap than what exists here."

Kaysa leaned over towards Shiv and whispered, "He liked her." She sighed airily and looked sternly at Zale. "I accept the proposed deal and I promise Shiv and I will not try and cheat you, no matter how tempting it will be." Kaysa reached her hand across the table to seal the pact and smiled sweetly at Zale. "You're gonna thank us for this, Zale. And after we do succeed, you'll owe us big time."

Zale took Kaysa's hand and laughed. "We shall see about that," he said. "Though something tells me I should be afraid now. Very afraid. So, are you three ready for--"

"Kaysa Zenarr-Karradas," said a domineering voice from behind them. "You do realize what day today is, don't you? The fifteenth of Praeda. You do realize why today is special, don't you?"

Kaysa's hand slipped slowly from Zale's grip and the smile faded from her face. It seemed whenever things went right, he would sweep in and turn everything upside down. She sat back in her chair with a heavy sigh. "Today...today..." she mused. "Today is the day I throw you off the top of the Segrelat Tower? I was hoping this day would come soon."

"Your humour is unappreciated," Rennor said. "Now, you will come with me and we will marry this evening, or else my lawyer will pay you a visit in the morning. You will not fu-- do this to me, Kaysa. You will be my wife, or Zenarr Inc. will be mine in compensation. Choose."

Kaysa tempered her anger by trying to find some humour in the situation. She could find none except for the fact that she really did want to throw Rennor off the tower. She glanced at Zale, then looked at both Shiv and Merrick out of the corner of her eyes before rising slowly. "Rennor, do you remember nothing of our conversation the other night?" She turned around to face him and looked at him as if he had recently undergone a lobotomy. His stupidity surprised even her. "I thought I'd made it blatantly clear that I wouldn't marry you, Rennor. Did you think I was merely playing hard to get?"

"You signed a contract, Kaysa," Rennor said. "If either of us backed out of the wedding then all assets would be gained by the other. So, by your own admission, you are giving me Zenarr Inc. I will begin the arrangements to take possession. Don't bother fighting this Kaysa; it'll be far more expensive than you can afford. It would be easiest to just admit you have lost, and let it go."

"Oh shut up you shorn nerf," Shiv said and then stood up and tossed the contents of her fruit juice onto Rennor's face.

The pulpy remains dribbled down off his nose, but it didn't hide the rage now burning in his eyes. "Get that little whore away from me before I have her brought up on assault charges."

Zale sighed. "Assault with a fruit beverage never sticks, Rennor," he said. "Though, I believe we can get you for disturbing the peace and willful misconduct."

"This is a private matter between me and my fiancé," Rennor snapped. "The rest of you stay out of it."

Kaysa could tolerate Rennor's contemptuous attitude when it was directed towards her, but she'd had enough of him insulting Shiv. She also wouldn't tolerate him intruding upon her life any longer. Ignoring the drink in front of her, Kaysa stepped towards Rennor and sent her open hand across his cheek in a stinging blow. "You will leave," she said in a threatening whisper. "But not before you apologize to her and to everyone at this table. You are nothing, Rennor. You have no right to insult these people when they are clearly far better than you. Now apologize."

Rennor narrowed his eyes and his lips twisted into a cruel smile. "My lawyer will speak with you in the morning, Kaysa," he said. "I suggest you start looking through the open job listings. By tomorrow afternoon, you will need it." With that, he turned on his heel and stormed from the restaurant.

---

"Chance Meeting, Part 3"
by Kaysa Zenarr
Zale Tregat
Maeren Shivral
Merrick Braston
Location: Shegrelat Tower, New Plouton, Tae'Karada
Date: Praeda 15, 4ABY

***

Kaysa cocked an eyebrow and laughed dryly. "That was easy. I should have hit him long ago." Kaysa turned back to Merrick, Zale, and Shiv. She smiled at Shiv and pressed her hand to her cheek. "He's an asshole, Shiv. Ignore him."

Shiv shrugged. "It's not like his opinion matters," she said. "And, even so, being your wenchy little whore isn't such a bad thing. Especially not when I get paid in orgasms." She giggled and then looked at Merrick and Zale with an embarrassed smile. "Sorry," she said. "He's an intellectually deficient, sexually repressed bantha tamer!"

Kaysa laughed and pushed Shiv down into her seat. "Drink your juice, Shiv." Kaysa took a seat of her own and looked at Merrick, then Zale. "What am I gonna do with him? The contract's binding. He will have Zenarr Inc."

Merrick laughed. "My lawyer loves guys like him," he said. "He can at least keep his lawyer tied up until we can find a loophole that'll get you through. There has to be one, and this guy'll find it. Though, it may take a few days of delaying whoever Rennor has. He probably has some guy that looks like he came out the wrong end of a bantha."

Shiv looked over at Merrick and giggled. "I think you've been hanging around me too long," she said. "Where'd you learn to talk like that, young man?"

Kaysa allowed herself a laugh, then looked back to see if Rennor really was gone. He and his goons were nowhere in sight, which lessened her anxieties somewhat. She turned her attention back to the table and sighed. "At this rate, and however long this legal battle drags out, we could be stuck dealing with that jerk for a long while. I'm sorry. I'm sorry I got engaged to that pile of dung. I'm sorry I was such an idiot."

"But, you're the idiot I love," Merrick said taking her hand.

"Me too," Shiv said as a way of encouragement. "But I don't think you're an idiot." She stuck her tongue out at Merrick and laughed.

Merrick threw a glance in her direction and sighed. "We'll deal with him together, Kaysa. We're in this together now, and we're not backing down because of some contract that only bears your name."

Zale leaned forward. "And, anything I can do to help," he said, "just name it."

"Maybe you could rough him up for me." Kaysa laughed, but there was no joy behind it. She sighed and shook her head. "The only thing left to do is find some legal way out of this. I just... I'm afraid this will all be too stressful for me, especially in my present state." A mischievous smile creeped onto her lips as she looked at Zale. "But I think finding Zale a wife will take my mind off things."

Zale laughed. "And, I'm sure wearing an equadi around New Plouton will also take your mind off it all," he said. "And, I'm sure it'll tame a little of the wild streak in your girlfriend there. And, make sure she's not stealing the silverware."

Shiv's mouth gaped open as she stared at Zale. "I am not stealing it," she said. "I was just...just polishing it on my napkin. That's all."

"She was not stealing it," Kaysa said as she pulled the fork from Shiv's hand and placed it a safe distance away from her. "Besides, who says you'll be seeing us in those equadi. I bet the first woman we find you will be engaged to you within a week. You'll thank us. And Merrick will thank you if you do manage to get us into those equadi."

"I hear most women don't wear any undergarments when wearing those things," Merrick said. "Zale did you check to see if Ithea was?"

Zale laughed. "I don't think she was," he said. "Though, I can't be certain. If she does contact me and is wearing one again, I'll try to let you know. And, you should encourage them to keep trying to set me up. You could be seeing them in equadi quite a bit. If they're persistent, you may have them wearing them forever."

"Fine, tease us all you want, but you'll be begging forgiveness once we find you the woman of your dreams." Kaysa shot Merrick a playful glare, then smiled at him sweetly. "And if you keep filling Zale's head with ideas, somebody's gonna be sleeping on the couch for a while."

Merrick laughed. "Well, I will admit that I think the two of you would look very nice in one of those dresses, but I think the two of you would look nice in just about anything. And, I'm sure you will pick a perfect wife for Zale, and he won't ever see you in native attire."

"Nice save, Merrick," Kaysa muttered. Kaysa chuckled and kissed Merrick roughly on the cheek. "Fine you can sleep in the bed with us. And we'll find someone to warm your bed, Zale. Don't you worry."

"It's not exactly worry," Zale said with a grin. "It's closer to stark terror."

"Oh Zale," Shiv said with a grin. "We know you like the two of us, so all we have to do is find someone similar. It shouldn't be really hard. I think we'll be able to find you someone perfect. And, then you'll owe us. And, for that, we should make you wear an equadi."

"And if Merrick doesn't stop doubting our abilities, he's gonna be wearing one too." Kaysa turned to Shiv and spoke quietly into her ear. "Should we start now, you think? There are a lot of attractive women here this evening. I already scored when I found Ithea; maybe we can make it two in one night."

Shiv nodded. "Yes," she whispered. "Look at him. He needs to go home with someone tonight before he explodes. I think we owe it to him as his friends to find him someone appropriate."

Kaysa smiled wickedly and grabbed Shiv's hand. "We're going to dance," she blurted out as she got to her feet. "Well, not together exactly but...you know. You and Merrick can talk about us while we're gone."

Shiv giggled. "I don't know, dancing together might be fun," she said as they started away from the table. Once they were far enough away, she glanced around and blushed when the waitress with the pitcher of water smiled at her. Oh if only I weren't already head over heels in love with two other people, she thought. She glanced around the floor looking for potential matches for Zale. "Did you see someone you thought looked absolutely perfect and practically screamed 'I want Zale to take me home tonight?'"

"Well, I thought Ithea was perfect until Zale started blabbing about equality and all the rest of that boring stuff." Kaysa pulled Shiv onto the dancefloor and scanned carefully for their next prospect for Zale. "I mean, we're trying to help him and he goes and drives her away. We really need to help him along with his people skills."

"I know," Shiv said. "I bet he could take a lesson or two from one of Ithea's slaves. I think we need to find him someone he won't really want to talk to. They just look at each other, smoulder for a bit, and then jump into bed. They can talk after the sparks have flown. Once he opens his mouth, it's all over."

"Gods I know! I'm surprised I stayed with him as long as I did. He was always analyzing me and telling me what I was doing wrong with this and that." Kaysa giggled heartily and spun Shiv around as she swayed with the music. "He does make up for it though in bed. I think any woman would be willing to put up with him for even a little taste of what he can deliver under the sheets."

"They just need to get into bed first, so she knows what she's giving up once he starts blabbing." As she and Kaysa spun their way across the dancefloor, Shiv caught a glimpse of a woman near the bar. "What about her?" The woman was blonde and was currently busy talking to the bartender. She wasn't exactly wearing an equadi, but the outfit still left little to the imagination. Her breasts nearly fell out of the top, and there was barely enough of the skirt to cover what it was supposed to cover.

Kaysa spun herself around in an elaborate dance move to put herself into a position to see the woman. "Oh look at the breasts on that one!" Kaysa said far too loudly. "I think he'd definitely go for her. Come on." Attempting to mask their approach with awkward spins and shuffles, Kaysa led Shiv towards the bar. "Do you think she's here with anyone?"

"Looking like that," Shiv said. "She has to be. But, once she finds out about Zale, she'll be all over him. Whoever she's here with won't stand a chance once we tell her about him."

The woman looked up at Kaysa and Shiv's approach. "Um, hi there," she said. "Looks like you got off track. The dancefloor is out there."

"Oh really? I hadn't noticed." Kaysa smiled pleasantly at the woman and took a seat beside her while Shiv rounded to the other side of the woman and planted herself on the other stool. "Whatcha drinking?" Kaysa asked as she leaned over and looked into the woman's glass. "Can I buy you another one?"

The woman looked down at her drink and then up at Kaysa. "It's a Corellian Ale with a twist of saffra. And, I'd love another one. They're my favourite, even though they go straight to my head. But, tonight I'm celebrating. I just got a raise today. I work as a receptionist down on Level thirty-two."

Kaysa glanced over at Shiv with a cocked eyebrow, but attempted to stifle her laugh. "A receptionist, huh? That sounds like hard work. I think you really could use another drink." She signalled to the bartender to refill the woman's glass, then continued with the conversation. "My name's Kaysa, by the way. And my friend over there is Shiv. Do you have a name?"

The woman's eyes went wide when her glass was filled again. "Thank you," she said. "My name is Arrista. And, sometimes it can be hard work being a receptionist, especially for the Tower. Did you know that on average we get...um, well a lot of calls every day? I have to answer most of them. So what do you do?"

"I run a courier business and Shiv over here flies big ships for me. She's really good at it too. Tell her, Shiv."

Shiv nodded. "I am," she said. "I've actually broken through Imperial Blockades. Though, I don't do that as much anymore. I'm doing cover art for the albums of some fairly big name musicians. Though, I guess I still do the occasional run in the system." Shiv looked at the woman's breasts and stifled a giggle. "How much did thos-- that drink cost you? It probably couldn't be very expensive. Corellian Ale is really easy to get. So, celebrating. We're celebrating too. It's three days of being a couple. It's a big thing for us."

Arrista looked at Shiv, and then at Kaysa. "But you're...females."

Shiv nodded. "That's what our boyfriend keeps telling us too."

Arrista's brow furrowed. "Your boyfriend? You have the same boyfriend?"

Shiv nodded. "We do. He's a famous musician. He's right over there with another friend of ours. Merrick's the guy folding the napkin into the shape of a bantha. We were sort of wondering if you thought our other friend was appealing to you. He's had a hard time keeping a steady girlfriend lately, and we saw you here and thought you might like to...you know. I mean, he was ours, mine and Kaysa's, before we got together with Merrick. So, we left him in a lurch, and we thought you might...you know...might like to get to know him. He's a great guy. Isn't he, Kayse?"

"Oh, he is. He treats women like...like..." Kaysa laughed uncomfortably and added, "He's really good in bed." She caught Shiv's gaze and did nothing to conceal the wink she shot her. The bimbo was definitely getting intrigued; she could tell by the way she was giggling into her drink. "His name's Zale, by the way. He's really rich. He owns his own company and many others in New Plouton. Come on, why don't we go introduce you. It can't hurt and who knows, maybe tonight, you and he can really celebrate that raise." Kaysa nudged Arrista and motioned her head towards their table. "I'll buy you another drink if you do."

Arrista looked between Kaysa and Zale and then grinned. "Okay," she said, though it was more of a squeak than anything. "Oh, he is good looking isn't he. Oh, I'd like to celebrate with him tonight. Do you think he'll like me?"

Kaysa peered down at Arrista's healthy set of breasts and grinned mischievously as she spoke into them. "Oh, I have a feeling you two will get along just fine." But I bet he'll have more fun with you two, Kaysa added before she tore her eyes from Arrista's breasts. "Shall we?" she said as she hopped off the barstool.

"Ooh, yes," Arrista said, as she put on her sexy walk as they moved over to the table where Merrick and Zale sat.

Merrick spotted them first, took a look at Arrista and did a very good job of almost not rolling his eyes. He looked at Shiv and shook his head. She just grinned back to him. "Zale," she said. "This is Arrista. She just got a raise today, and was celebrating. So we invited her over." She pulled out the seat next to Zale, scooting it even closer to his as she did. "Here Arrista, you can sit here."

Zale looked up at the woman, his eyes wide with surprise. It looked like he was stuck staring at her breasts until his eyes finally finished getting up to her face. "Congratulations, Arrista," he said. "We'd be delighted for you to join us. Kaysa was very kind to invite you over."

Kaysa smiled proudly and took her seat next to Merrick. "Arrista here is a receptionist, Zale. I bet it takes alot of talent to answer calls all day long. I mean, you have to remember all those names and extensions... That's gotta be tough."

Arrista nodded. "It is," she said. "Especially when you have to keep Mr. Hamron Styles, and Mr. Sephron Styles, and Mr. Hazman Styles all straight. Somedays I just don't know what to do."

Zale cast a questioning glance at Shiv, who was sitting down next to Merrick again.

Shiv gave him back a glare and then focused her eyes on Arrista's massive bosom. And, then looked back at him as if to say, who cares what she says, look at that body.

Zale took another look at Arrista and then glanced back to Shiv, who gave him a big grin as she cupped her own breasts and glanced back to Arrista's. She nodded slowly gave him a thumbs-up sign, and Zale shook his head and turned his attention back to Arrista who was explaining to Kaysa how she'd almost crossed the lines between two customers earlier in the day, but had managed to avoid it...barely.

Kaysa tried to look intrigued with the conversation, but all the while she kept focusing on Arrista's assets, threatening to spill over her top. Gods she was stupid, but at least she made up for it with her looks. "Arrista," Kaysa said wearily, "why don't you ask Zale to dance? I'm sure he'd love to hear all about crossed lines and accidentally dropping your pen into the caffe maker. He really gets off on that stuff," she whispered. She looked back at Zale and motioned her eyes towards the dancefloor. She was going to succeed; there was no way she was wearing an equadi and obeying Zale's every command. No more bimbos, Kaysa, or you'll be wearing an equadi for a year.

Arrista giggled. "Okay," she said. She turned to Zale and gave him a big smile. "Would you care to dance, Zale? This is one of my favourite songs ever, and I'd just be honoured if you'd...well, dance with me."

Zale glanced over at Shiv who was doing her best to not burst out into laughter. She nodded vigourously at him and made shooing gestures out toward the dancefloor. "Sure, Arrista," he said. "I would love to dance with you." He held out a hand and she took it. As they passed Kaysa, he stooped toward her ear and whispered, "What size do you wear again?" And, then they moved off out into the dancefloor.

Unable to control herself any longer, Shiv let out the giggles she'd been holding in. Once she was able to breathe again, she looked up at Kaysa. "We are so dead."

Kaysa smiled nervously and tried to sound hopeful. "Well there's still a chance...if she keeps her mouth shut." She turned with an imploring gaze to Merrick and put on her most enticing smile. "My love, you won't really let him do that to us, will you? I mean, you won't really let us walk around New Plouton in equadi, right?"

Merrick laughed. "You two are the ones that made the pact with him," he said, "so you'll have to live by the rules you've set down. It'll teach you two to keep your noses in your own relationship instead of everyone else's...or at least Zale's."

"Merrick!" Kaysa whined. "But...everyone will see us! You don't want your two girls walking around half naked for all the men to see, do you?" Kaysa pursed her lips and tried to steady her breathing as Merrick's smile grew even larger. "You're so cruel, Merrick!" Kaysa threw her napkin into Merrick's face and grabbed Shiv's hand. "Come on. If we dance, we can eavesdrop on their conversation."

Shiv slipped out of her chair and followed after Kaysa, smoothing her skirt as she moved. Sliding into step with Kaysa was nice, and being held close as they danced their way toward Arrista and Zale was nicer. They moved well together, and Shiv had to fight to control where her hands went as they swayed in time with the music. "Maybe he won't take us out anywhere. I mean, wearing those things might not be that bad if we're just serving him caffe in his office."

"Yeah while entertaining his business associates." Kaysa spun Shiv around then pulled her close for a kiss. Despite trying to sneak up unnoticed on Zale to listen in on their conversation, Kaysa couldn't help laughing. "This is fun, even though I'm sober."

Shiv giggled. "Well, it's easier not to fall on our faces if we're sober," she said. "I like dancing with you, Kaysa. And, I love plotting with you. I think we should do this more often."

"Well, as long as we're successful at it. Zale is gonna enjoy tormenting us. But doesn't he realize we're doing this for him? I mean, I know it's gonna be difficult finding a sex partner as good as I was, but he really has to move on." Kaysa laughed and pulled Shiv even closer. She nibbled on her neck not caring who saw or what the intolerant prudes dancing thought about them. "You know, Merrick should join us. He's always trying to ruin our fun."

Shiv let her body melt into Kaysa's. "He should," she said. "And, I think we're going to have to do something about him and his fun ruining. Though, I think he does enjoy it when we tease him. Have you noticed he'll give us looks, but he never really looks all serious and upset?"

"I don't think he could possibly get angry at his girls. If he did, we'd just withhold sex." Kaysa cocked her head to the side, trying to catch a hint of the conversation going on between Zale and Arrista. The music was drowning out most of it, but it certainly did nothing to dampen the shrill, bubbly laugh of Arrista. "Poor Zale," Kaysa whispered to Shiv. "I wouldn't be surprised if he suffered hearing damage after having to listen to that."

As they listened in, they heard that Arrista was telling Zale a story about how she'd lost her top when trying to remove a caffe stain from it. It was a really sad story about how she had taken it off to clean it with a towel, but when she left it unattended for a moment, someone had come by and taken it.

"I'm just really glad I was still wearing my bra," she said. "Or it could have been a very embarrassing day. You know, I got a raise after that day too." She started giggling again and they could both see Zale's eyes roll.

As Arrista opened her mouth to speak again, Zale quickly covered it with his, cutting off any sound other than a whimper.

Kaysa's eyes shot open and she covered her mouth with her hand as she saw Zale's mouth meet Arrista's. She quickly pulled Shiv away a good distance and let her laugh fill the air. "Did you see that?! I think he's gonna be the one wearing the equadi! And Merrick said to mind our own business...right!"

Shiv glanced back over her shoulder and giggled. "I think he's giving her tongue," she said. "Or she's giving it to him. Oh gods, Kaysa, she just reached down to his...oh my! Oh wow, I think they're...oh...oh no...they're going back to the table."

"Oh! Let's go!" Kaysa grabbed Shiv's hand and pulled her along quickly. "We are so good at this, Shiv! He's gonna take her home tonight, I know it." Kaysa approached the table with Shiv in tow, and the smile on her face clearly indicated victory. "You two moved pretty well together on the dance floor." She winked at Zale as she pulled Shiv's chair out for her.

Shiv sat in her chair with a victorious grin and glanced over at Arrista who was positively beaming. "Yes," she said. "The two of you looked...looked like you were practically making love on the dancefloo--oww!" She glanced at Merrick with a playful glare. "Hey!"

Merrick only laughed and leaned forward to give Shiv a deep kiss.

Zale gave Kaysa a large smile. "I think that Arrista and I are going to head out now. It's been a fairly long night, and she doesn't like crowds very much."

"I don't have a problem with crowds," Arrista said. "Crowds are fine. I like crowds very much."

Zale shook his head and laughed. "Did I say Arrista, I meant I. I'm having a problem with the crowd tonight. Too many people. Some fresh air will do me some good."

"Oh I definitely think so too." She could do nothing to suppress her smile, but Kaysa did manage to contain the squeal of delight she was desperate to emit. She looked to Arrista, and tried to help Zale along. "He's never really enjoyed being in crowded places. He's a bit self conscious, you know. He doesn't look the type, but he really is shy. I'm sure, though, you can help him break out of his shell, Arrista."

"Really," Arrista asked. "Well, I don't know what I can do about that, but I'll try."

Zale looked down at her and offered his hand. "Ready to go?"

The woman smiled and hopped to her feet and put her hand in his. "Yes," she squealed.

Zale glanced back to those still seated around the table. "Well, I guess I'll see you three later," he said, casting an extra long glance in Kaysa and Shiv's direction. "I'll be in touch."

"Have a wonderful evening, Zale. You can thank us later." Kaysa waved at him with a large smile on her face, then turned to Shiv ready to burst with excitement. "We won, Shiv. Arrista is gonna have fun tonight."

Shiv watched Arrista bouncing away, unable to pull her eyes from the woman's breasts. "Oh, and so is Zale," she said. "Oh man. They're so cute together, Kayse. I think they're made for each other. Did you see the way he was kissing her? Oh, they're so into each other."

Kaysa nodded excitedly in agreement then leaned over to look at Merrick. "Well? What did you think? You're a guy so you would know better than us what Zale's really thinking."

Merrick laughed. "Well," he said. "He's probably thinking she's got a great body that will be very nice in bed, but there's not much to her beyond that. You have to admit she's not exactly the brightest lightsaber."

"But, what does that matter? He only needs a companion. It might be a nice change, though. All day long he has to converse with serious businessmen; coming home to a woman like her who can provide him with some comical anecdotes would be a relief...I think." Kaysa looked back as Zale and Arrista disappeared through the doors and felt a moment of anxiety. "I mean...it would be a relief, right?" she asked, a little uncertainly.

Merrick glanced toward where they had been and nodded. "If she's as good in bed as we're suspecting, then I'm sure it would be a relief. Usually, with a good sex life, other flaws in a person can be forgiven. Then there are those of us who are blessed with intelligent and sexy women, and all parts of the relationship are wonderful. I'm sure Zale will be happy with Arrista."

"Hmm..." Kaysa looked to Shiv skeptically, and while a moment ago she'd been confident of their success, she was feeling only anxiety now. "We're gonna be wearing equadi, aren't we, Shiv?"

Shiv frowned. "Well, there always is a chance that Zale likes the vacuous kind. I mean, maybe sex is so important to him that it doesn't matter what she says. Or maybe they'll get totally drunk and he won't even remember the pact."

"Thanks for trying to comfort me, Shiv, but I'm unconvinced. You and I both know Zale. He likes fiery, smart, witty - all the things Arrista is not. I fear, Shiv," Kaysa said with a frown, "that by tomorrow, we're going to be shopping for equadi." She turned to Merrick with a sweet smile and added, "And Merrick's buying."

Merrick laughed. "I will gladly buy the two of you the best equadi on the planet," he said. "And, if you want, I can even buy you one for each day of your week with Zale." He leaned forward with a smile. "If you want a thought to help you endure this: the two of you will spend a week parading around Zale with hardly a stitch on, and he can't touch either of you. I think you'll end up sending him home very frustrated every day. By the end of that week, he'll need Arrista."

Kaysa smirked happily at Merrick and brought his hand to her lips. "Oh how I love you. Still though, just because he can't touch us doesn't mean he can't torment us. We're really gonna need some comforting once the ordeal is over, my love. I think I need some now, actually. I'm all nervous and unsettled at even the thought of having to walk around half naked in New Plouton. Aren't you, Shiv?" Kaysa asked, smiling suggestively.

Shiv looked at Kaysa and giggled. "Well, now that you mention it," she said. "I guess I am feeling nervous about being practically naked in front of the entire city. I mean, you can see everything but the crotch, but even then, if you're standing at the right angle, you can see right down there. I think we're definitely gonna need some comforting."

Merrick laughed. "Then how about we get this bill settled, and head back to the apartment for some comforting?"

Kaysa looked at Shiv wide-eyed and with a broad grin before she swung her head around towards the waiter and shot her hand shot up into the air. "Cheque please!"

Shiv giggled and pulled her hand up from under the table. She was holding something hidden in it, and just as Merrick raised a questioning eyebrow, she let it unfurl. Merrick's other eyebrow raised to meet the first when he saw it was a fairly skimpy pair of panties. "Who needs to go all the way to the apartment when we have a wonderful elevator?"

"Darn," Kaysa said with a smile. "It's too bad I forgot mine, Merrick. You could have had two pair."

Shiv giggled as Merrick took the panties dangling between her forefinger and thumb, much to the dismay of the waiter who'd suddenly arrived with their cheque. "Well, if you forgot them," he said. "I may just have to take what would be in them anyway." He handed the waiter his credit chip and the man departed quickly after casting long looks at both Kaysa and Shiv.

"Why, Merrick. I didn't know you had such a dirty mind," Kaysa chided playfully. "I think you've spent far too much time with Shiv and I. We really are a bad influence. Well...ok. Maybe I'm the bad influence, but Shiv is just as bad now!"

Shiv giggled. "Thanks to your influence," she said. "Though, I think I've always had this side. I can't help it if I'm a little on the wild side, right? And, I think we're going to end up corrupting Merrick pretty bad."

Merrick laughed. "Well, I'll follow wherever you two lead."

"And I say we lead him into the elevator...immediately. Watching Zale and that bimbo making out on the dancefloor certainly got me all excited." Kaysa smiled up at the waiter as he returned Merrick's credit chip and scowled at them. "Thank you," Kaysa said politely. If she weren't so happy that evening, she would have most likely insulted him for his rude behaviour. She had no time for that, now. The three of them had to get into the elevator quickly before she suggested they use the table.

The man walked off muttering under his breath about sexual freedoms and decay of society, but by the time he was out of earshot, Shiv and Kaysa were on their feet and pulling Merrick toward the elevator.

"Now that I think about it," Shiv said, "I'm pretty excited too. You know, I think this is gonna have to be a tradition. I mean, when we come here for anything. It's such a long elevator ride down, and we have to do something to entertain ourselves. Though, if you think about it, if we do wear those equadi, they're easy to get out of."

"Hmm...good point, Shiv." Kaysa slid her chair back and stood up. She pulled Shiv's out for her and helped her up. "Do you want me to pull your chair out for you too, Merrick?"

Merrick chuckled as he slid his chair out. "I think I've got it," he said and closed the distance between his two lovers. "You know, I must admit that seeing the two of you in one of those outfits is a nice thought."

Shiv took his hand and smiled. "Well, you may get your chance. I think they're having sex right now though. Wild, loud sex with her screaming his name out in that high, squeaky voice of hers."

Kaysa laughed as her arm went around Merrick's waist. "I know! It sounds like she swallowed a dweeblerat. I think Zale's gonna have to keep her mouth busy if he intends to keep his sanity."

Shiv giggled. "Oh, I'm sure she's quite good at keeping that mouth busy, at least, for Zale's sake she does. I think they're going to be perfect for each other. If she's really good, he may decide to keep her. There's a chance."

They passed the maitre d's station and the man frowned at them. He had a long memory, apparently, and still remembered their last visit. Shiv gave him a grin, and wasn't sure if she should feel good about being memorable or not.

Merrick pressed the button to call for the elevator, but it looked like they would need to wait for a minute or so since all the cars appeared to be down toward the bottom of the tower.

"Merrick," Kaysa whispered anxiously. "I don't know if I can wait that long. Do you think others beat us to it? I mean, I bet we're not the first ones to...have fun in the elevators."

Merrick looked at the indicators. "I hope not," he said. "But I think this may be something that happens a lot. Though, it would be nice to be unique in our elevator activities." He pulled her to him and kissed her gently. "That far one there looks like it's moving. Should be just a moment or two. That is if it doesn't stop before it gets here."

"It better not or we're gonna have to remind that waiter over there how feisty we really are." Kaysa chuckled as she ran hand along Merrick's chest and let it wander to his abdomen. "I have no qualms with getting us kicked out of here permanently, Merrick. You better hope that elevator comes soon."

Merrick laughed as he felt Shiv press herself against his back and start kissing his neck. "I'm hoping," he said. "But, I really can't hurry it up. Only about twenty floors left to go. You can hold off for twenty floors, can't you?" He let out a squawking noise as Shiv grabbed his butt. "I happen to like the food here, you know."

"Yeah, but I bet you like eating us much more." Kaysa giggled as her hand found its way into Merrick's pants. He yelped as she pulled his underwear out of the way and let her hand delve in. "These people are uptight anyway, Merrick. Don't you like our company better?" she asked while groping him enthusiastically.

From behind him, Shiv's hand reached around, and plunged in after Kaysa's. Their hands, groping and touching, were almost too much for him. "Well," he murmured, "now that you mention it."

"Mr. Braston," snapped the maitre d'. "Please desist this abhorrent behaviour at once, sir."

Kaysa giggled uncontrollably, but took no measures to pull her hand free of Merrick's pants. "Um...he dropped his cred chip down there. We were just trying to get it for him, that's all."

The unmistakable sound of a zipper being undone brought an even larger frown from the maitre d'.

"Oops," Shiv said and giggled "That wasn't supposed to happen," she added with a grin. "You know Merrick, this would be so much easier if you just stopped wearing that silly underwear."

"Mr. Braston, I'm afraid I'm going have to ask you to leave, and I think it would be best if you did not return to the Segrelat Tower."

"I'm trying to leave," Merrick said between moans. "It's just that my girlfriends are very...very intent on finding that credit chip. And, the elevator is slow."

The man's face had turned bright red. "You will stop this at once, or I will be forced to report you to the Morality Guard!"

Kaysa looked to Shiv and burst out laughing. "He must be related to Gladyne!" Kaysa continued groping Merrick as she cackled with laughter. "I bet we could reunite them and together, they can bring morality back to Tae'Karada."

Shiv giggled and continued kissing Merrick while she started sliding her hand along his shaft. Fortunately for the maitre d' it was still hidden in his underwear. "I think they'd be perfect," she said.

Merrick was at a loss, and really didn't want to stop Kaysa and Shiv from what they were doing. He muttered an apology to the man and offered a weak protest to Kaysa and Shiv. He then looked at the man with an apologetic shrug that said, "I tried."

Just then, the elevator door opened and three men and two women stepped out. They looked at the display Merrick, Kaysa, and Shiv were making and muttered shocked outrage, at least the women did. At least, until one of them recognized Merrick Braston and almost fainted. "Oh my gods," she said. "Merrick Braston's getting a handjob by two women in the lobby of the Segrelat Tower Restaurant." At the apparent approval of the act taking place, the men ushered the women away before they asked to join in.

"Now will you please leave the premises, Mr. Braston," the maitre d' sneered, "and never return."

"Oh, I don't think you mean that," Kaysa said with a sweet smile. "You'd miss our company too much. Besides, Merrick's your best customer and if he never returned, how much money do you think you'd be missing out on? And how many customers? I bet those women are gonna tell all their friends they saw Merrick Braston at the Segrelat Tower restaurant, and I've no doubt they'll just flock here. You should thank him. He's bringing in business."

"They come here to eat dinner, not to see some overblown celebrity have sex with his trollops in the lobby." His mouth dropped open when he saw that Merrick's underwear had been pulled away and Shiv and Kaysa's hands were visible as they worked rhythmically at his erection. "Will you please leave now!"

"Fine," Kaysa said haughtily, "but your boss isn't gonna be happy about losing such a good customer." Kaysa began pulling Merrick towards the elevator, with Shiv clinging onto Merrick desperately in tow. "And we're not trollops!" Kaysa hollered back at the waiter. "We're merely his sex slaves."

Shiv glanced back at the man and giggled. "We do anything for him," she said. "And anywhere!" She gave the man a wink and started hiking up her skirt with her free hand. "Have a good night, sir," she sang back to him. "I know I will!"

Kaysa laughed wildly then kissed Shiv ravenously. "Oh, you silly, perverse creature you. That man didn't deserve to see your bare...parts like that. I imagine he's losing consciousness from the shock right about now."

Shiv giggled. "I wasn't trying to show it to him," she said. "I just wanted to get my skirt up so Merrick could fuck my brains out in the elevator!"

"Speaking of which..." Kaysa pulled her hand free of Merrick's pants and took a step back. She placed her hands on her hips and motioned to Shiv with a smile. "So, what are you waiting for, Merrick? Get on with it...or on Shiv, as the case may be."

Shiv reached to the side of her skirt and unfastened the clasp holding it in place. When she pulled her hands away, the fabric fell to the ground at her feet and she stepped forward to Merrick leaving it behind. "Come on, Merrick," she said, pressing herself to him. "I want you to make me scream."