"Wit's End"
By: Yelara Neerou
Va'Lesh Zaneth
Meer'esh

Location: Yelara's apartment, New Plouton
Date: Vadris 17, 4 ABY

***

"Come on now, Leshie, you have to sleep."

"Dadoo! Da-doo!"

Whimpering miserably and fussing in her arms, Yelara envisioned another three toilsome hours spent in her chair trying to rock Leshie to sleep. All he had seemed to do the entire evening was grab at something unseen in the air and call for Liam. Yelara wondered if the child even noticed her.

The morning had been fine, with Leshie giggling and happily touring the city with Yelara, but as the day dragged on, her normally cheerful child plunged into despair at his father's absence. Liam had been right - their child could sense emotions and moods outside of normal perception, and he certainly detected that his father was not coming home that evening. Or ever. The dinner Yelara had made them was now nothing more than a frigid, congealed nest of noodles; Leshie had refused to touch his food and Yelara could hardly sneak in a bite herself while coaxing Leshie to eat. In the end, she left everything where it was and carried a kicking, screeching Leshie into the refresher for a bath.

Ordinarily a playful time for her child, Yelara discovered immediately Leshie would not be placated. Soaking wet from Leshie's furious splashing in the lukewarm water, Yelara only truly gave up when her child attempted to take a chunk from her hand. She could still make out the teeth marks.

Now nearly mid-morning and only three hours till she was due at work, Yelara's nerves were frayed, her patience worn thin, and Leshie was no less uncontrollable than he had been earlier. I should never have driven Liam out, she thought to herself grimly.

As if reading her mind, Leshie emitted an ear-shattering scream that ended with a crack as his tiny palm swatted her cheek. Yelara's mental reserve snapped, and in her rage she seized Leshie's arms and held him out before her as she rose. His cries intensified when Yelara began shaking him briskly and uncontrollably, shouting at the boy with tears spilling from her eyes. "Just stop it, Leshie! Just shut up! He's not coming back! Just shut the hells up!"

Leshie was red-faced and sucking in air convulsively by the time Yelara recovered enough sanity to comprehend what she was doing to her child. With a piercing, horrified wail, Yelara sagged to her knees and buried her face into Leshie's heaving chest. Her own bitter weeping joined his, and instead of nearly murdering her child, she clung to him tightly, lovingly.

"I'm sorry!" she sobbed. "Oh, Leshie...I'm sorry for everything! Just...please...stop crying. For mama, please..."

"Dadoo," he whimpered plaintively.

"I know," Yelara breathed. "We'll...we'll try tomorrow, okay? Just...please, Leshie...you have to stop." She smothered his tear-stained cheeks with kisses and stroked his red hair. "Mama loves you...but she needs your help. You have to go to sleep."

Va'Lesh, still racked with choking sobs, nestled his face into the curve of Yelara's neck, and she did all she could to soothe her child. It was still another hour before he'd ceased whimpering and had fallen asleep; meanwhile, Yelara could no longer contain her own grief and wept stifled tears well into dawn, then full-daylight. By the time she was due to leave for work, Yelara was bleary-eyed, exhausted, and despondent. Instead of rising from the floor and disturbing Va'Lesh, Yelara pressed her face into Leshie's tiny shoulder to blot out the sun and found a fitful sleep.

***

The midday sun was slanting through Leshie's bedroom window when the gentle tones of Yelara's comm summoned her from what little uninterrupted slumber she had achieved. Leshie, however, appeared to have sunken into a far deeper sleep, judging from the drool that was soaking into the fabric covering her shoulder. The persistent chirping from her comm unit seemed not to bother the child, and Yelara was loath to shatter the hard-fought peace to answer a likely unimportant comm.

But as she kissed Leshie's forehead lightly, the first thought that came to mind was: "And if it's Liam?" Bracing herself for what might cause another screaming fit from Leshie, Yelara supported her child with one arm and used her other hand for balance and extra push as she unfolded herself from the ground. She paused long enough once upright to ensure Leshie wouldn't wake, then nestled him into the thick blankets of his crib before rushing off to answer her comm.

Still disoriented from just waking, Yelara stumbled through the living area, into the kitchen where she had last seen her unit. She snatched it up just as it was sounding its fifth chime. "Yelara here," she responded hastily, breathlessly. However, the face staring back at her with concern was not Liam's. Yelara sighed. "Meer'esh..."

"Yelara," he said in surprise. Around him was the clatter of china and lively conversation. The Zacacea Blossom certainly was bustling that afternoon. "Are you unwell? You are not here." His pale cheeks coloured slightly. "I have been missing you."

"I-I'm fine," she assured him, though certainly didn't feel it. "I...my son isn't well so...I just...I had to stay with him. I should have let Sejal know...." Yelara smiled tightly. "He'll have me fired for this, won't he?"

"No, he would not do such." Meer'esh's consoling smile shined through the comm device and infused Yelara with a touch of cheer. "I should come to you, Yelara. You are now grown as light of skin as I am."

Yelara frowned, but once his meaning was understood, she smiled wanly. "I'm pale. I-I imagine so. I'm very tired, Meer'esh. Leshie's been crying all night and...." Lowering her head and covering her eyes, Yelara made her best attempt at concealing freshly forming tears. "I'm sorry...I have to go," she whispered.

"Alright," he answered slowly and paused before adding, "I will be over in twenty minutes."

"What?" She looked up in surprise, exposing the tears dribbling down her cheeks. "Meer'esh...you can't just leave. You'll be fired!"

He chuckled with mirth, sparking a twinkle in his eye. "Why would I fire my own self, Ms. Neerou?" Yelara shook her head slowly in clear perplexity. Meer'esh recognized her expression and clarified, "The Zacacea Blossom, I own. I will not be firing myself, Yelara. You will be seeing me very soon." And giving her no room for protest, Meer'esh ended the transmission.

Yelara simply chuckled in disbelief after overcoming her initial shock. "So, Meer'esh," she muttered to herself, "what other secrets are you hiding from me?" She stared at the blank screen, imagining his visage there for some time until reality snapped back to hit her. Meer'esh was coming over...and she looked a disaster. With a gasp, Yelara dropped her comm onto the kitchen counter and dashed for her bedroom. Company was coming and she needed to look her best. She only hoped Leshie would cooperate and stay fast asleep.

***

Primped, but hardly preened and still sporting dark bags under her eyes, Yelara hastily smoothed back her unruly curls as she hurried to greet her guest. Even just hearing the chime sent a surge of excitement and anxiety through Yelara, and the tiniest flicker of hope that Liam might be standing on the other side. Something in her, some subconscious feeling, told Yelara he was instead far, far away. It didn't diminish her enthusiasm, however, neither did activating her door release and discovering Meer'esh on the other side. He smiled tentatively at her, his violet eyes searching hers with restrained concern.

She exhaled a sigh of wry laughter and stepped aside. "Come in," she told him. "That was pretty fast."

"Not nearly," he answered apologetically. "I should have been arrived sooner if you had told me earlier." The seriousness of his expression and tone convinced Yelara his sentiments were not empty or an attempt to seem charming. For whatever reason, Meer'esh had an emotional investment in her well-being, and vulnerable as she was now, Yelara was touched to near tears by it.

"Thank you," she whispered. "You're a good friend, Meer'esh."

He smiled down at her upturned face and stroked her cheek with the backs of his pale fingers. They were cold to the touch, but the gesture warmed Yelara until she was blushing. Swallowing hard, Yelara backed away clumsily. "Your...your coat," she managed with a nervous laugh. "Let me take it for you and then I'll get you something hot to drink."

Noting her discomfort, Meer'esh chuckled gently and proceeded to remove his longcoat. Beneath he still wore the long dark pants and white shirt of their uniform - one still spotted with caffe splatter and indicating Meer'esh truly had rushed straight from work to Yelara's aid. She wasn't certain yet if he was being intentionally endearing or naturally; either way, he had impressed her.

Avoiding his inherently alluring gaze, Yelara deposited his coat on the wallrack, then crossed his path as she started for the kitchen. She gave him a decidedly wide berth lest contact with him frazzle her again. "Have a seat, Meer'esh. Just...relax." Yelara smiled tightly through the kitchen's opening at him. "You came all this way.... You didn't have to, Meer'esh. Va'Lesh is asleep now. Everything's fine." And quickly she turned to the range before he could see the lie in her shaky smile.

"I did want to come, Yelara," he assured her in his soothing, lilting accent. "I am your friend. This is not what I should do for my friend?"

"It's always appreciated," she informed him, "but not an obligation. Leshie's father, on the other hand.... Abandoning me is one matter, but his own child?" With a quavering sigh, she set the pot of caffe on the range and watched the liquid intently to keep her emotions under tight control. "That bastard," she spat, failing in her efforts. "Does he think he's punishing me with this? Doesn't he see how this is hurting his own son? I-I can't just pick up where we left off! I know it's what he wants...but I can't! I don't...feel anything towards him, not now." Yelara sucked in a strangled breath, and when she released, every emotion bottled up within her - frustration, anger, grief, resentment, and most of all desolation - expelled itself in one heaving sob.

She braced the counter with her hands to support her buckling legs, but with each shuddering sob, Yelara sank lower and lower to the ground until she was nearly on her knees. Only Meer'esh's hands gently gripping her shoulders kept Yelara upright. And it was his sheltering embrace that offered Yelara solace. He gave no words of comfort, no caresses; there was only the steady rhythm of his chest rising and falling beneath her cheek, his one hand cradling her head while the other fit perfectly against the small of her back. Pale as death, Meer'esh radiated only soothing warmth where they touched, and as suddenly as Yelara's outburst of emotion had begun, it abated to nothing more than convulsive breaths and gentle whimpers.

She remained pressed to Meer'esh's solid, willowy frame, where she derived an inner peace she hadn't felt since her blow-up with Liam, or even her raising from the dead. And he had done nothing more than hold her, listen, and refrain from offering useless encouragement and sympathy. It was more than she could have asked for.

Cheeks streaked with drying tears and eyes swollen red, Yelara turned her face up towards Meer'esh's, their twin violet stares being exchanged. Both were silent, though Meer'esh pensively so, until Yelara raised her hand to his cheek and drew herself up onto her toes. The distance between their faces closed, but not entirely so as Meer'esh intuited Yelara's intentions through the softness of her gaze. He smiled disarmingly, which only spurred Yelara on, and delicately trapped her face between his gentle hands to stay her.

"I am not here for this, my lady of the raven hair," he told her in dulcet tones that appeased her soul further. Long, slender fingers threaded easily through her loose curls and Yelara leaned her head into the caress. Meer'esh chuckled softly. "You are...very wanting, Yelara. But I am a friend to you, and to the little child. There should not be more."

"I know," she sighed, but at the same time as her admission, Yelara was basking in the heat of his body penetrating her own as they remained in contact. She never realized how deprived she had been of the security and comfort simply being near another individual provided. It gave her brief insight into what Liam might be experiencing with the loss of his wife.

"I'm sorry, Meer'esh," Yelara told him finally, fully discouraged from her intended act by thought alone of Liam. Smiling faintly, she stepped back and pulled Meer'esh's hands down from her face to rest in her own. "I hope I haven't done anything too untoward. I do appreciate your friendship and wouldn't want to lose it suddenly."

"You will not," he assured her. "You are the single friend I do have on this strange planet. I would not be liking to give you up."

Yelara chuckled at his choice of words, and couldn't yet decide if he had selected them intentionally or if his knowledge of standard had again put a romantic twist on his statement. Grinning, Yelara answered flirtatiously, "And I'm not giving you up, either. Which is why" --she stepped away and motioned towards her living area-- "you're going to have a seat and I'm going to finish this caffe."

Meer'esh bowed his head in jesting obsequiousness, though kept his captivating eyes on Yelara's. She shook her head laughingly and turned back to the stove to brew their caffe.

While Meer'esh silently slipped away to the living area, Yelara smiled at how quickly he had raised her spirits and how he had rejected her advances. It raised her opinion of him, and added to Meer'esh's mysterious appeal. Incapable of resisting the urge to, Yelara furtively stole glances his way as Meer'esh reposed on the sofa, and staring down into the simmering pot, she silently importuned the caffe to ready itself quickly.

---

"Running Away From Dahaka, Part 1"
By Kyra Ronso
Auron Ronso
Ellemiek Vermolen
Allison Blair
Aeris Strife - NPC+
Cloud Everblades
Kolonos - NPC

Location: Rebel Village, Mountains of New Plouton
Date: Vadris 17, 4 ABY

***

Auron made his way towards the medical house. On his way towards the medical wooden house, he saw Ellemiek not too far from it. He knew her very well. The last time he saw Ellemiek that way was when she received news that her father had disappeared. Her desperation, scariness for a loved one, made her very restless which meant that Ellemiek did care for Kyra after all.

He decided to leave Ellemiek alone for now, since there was probably a lot for her to think about. As he entered, he saw Aeris seated in chair, watching over Kyra. Aeris' eyes showed tiredness, but her eyes stayed constantly vigilant in her friend's condition. He finally looked at Kyra, who was lying over on the bed, sweating due to the high fevers. Her naked upper body was under the sheets to aid the fever go down, but it didn't help very much. "How she's doing?" Auron looked to the bandage around her front right arm.

Aeris let go a breath of despair and hopelessness. "Not very well, Auron. The fever doesn't go down by any means. She had a very rough night, and I started to think that she is probably not going to make it," Aeris said, as absolute sadness struck her and she tried to hold and not cry, even though a tear rolled down her right cheek. She cleaned it fast, but Auron had already noticed her tear.

Auron was also not very comfortable in that situation either. "Now, now. She is a strong woman, Aeris. I know that she will fight for her life." Auron sighed heavily to Kyra. "This is the second time on my life that I feel so helpless. When my mother was hit by a speeder, she didn't die on the spot. She was transported to the hospital where she stayed for two days. I was there for two days on the hospital seeing my mother fight for her own life. I wanted to help her, but as time passed, her body slowly started to give in."

"I didn't know that." Aeris sighed. "I feel hopeless too, Auron. If there was any way to ease her pain, I would give her, but there isn't. Seeing a person that you love on a bed fighting for their lives when we can't even help them, is a lot more difficult than to lose someone on the battle field."

Auron approached Aeris and looked at her. "I know it's hard, but it is up to us to pray to the gods not to take her life. It is the only thing we can do. Why don't we do it together?"

Aeris sighed. "I never thought that you believed in the gods!"

"I don't, not ever since my mother died. But I learned that during situations like this, it is the only thing we can do to ease our pain." Auron sighed and both started to pray.

***

Outside, Ellemiek leaned against the side wall of a small hut. She was worried about Kyra's condition and was looking over at the Medical house, but had decided against going there. Seeing Kyra's fragile state was not something that Ellemiek cared to remember. Not that they were good friends now, but they had been once. And even if she thought Kyra to be different than she was before, she didn't wish her any harm at all.

Fact was that this whole ordeal made Ellemiek wonder about her father. She had left the Tae'Morad at the time to search for him, and yet she had never found him. And at the time, Kyra was perhaps the one person who helped her surpass the feeling of loss that she had. And Ellemiek had never thanked Kyra properly. Not really. And now it seemed that she never would have the chance to do so.

"Perhaps you should go there..." someone said from behind.

Ellemiek turned and saw Alisson Blair. She nodded at first, but then shook her head. "No... I think I'll let her rest. There's nothing I can do in there."

Alisson sighted and gave Ellemiek a reassuring nod. "They do say that even dying people are able to hear the words that their loved ones speak to them, even if they are in a critical state and out of their senses," Alisson commented.

"Kyra and I... We..." Ellemiek began to explain. "Our friendship isn't what it used to be."

"And yet you stand here, wondering about her and hoping that she lives," Alisson commented, stating the obvious.

"I owe her that much, even if we don't get along anymore... She changed a lot, you know? She's not at all the way she used to be," Ellemiek said. "Sometimes I wonder how can she have changed so much. But then, I didn't really give her a chance. I wasn't exactly fair."

Alisson smiled gently and placed her hand in Ellemiek's shoulder. "I'm sure she knows that. But even so, perhaps you should tell her that once she wakes up."

Ellemiek raised an eyebrow, somewhat confused. "What do you mean? She's going to make it? She's out of danger?" she asked, somewhat hopeful that it was so.

"Well... To be honest, I do not know. But I was on my way there..." Alisson replied. "Right now only time will tell. But there are Jedi healing techniques that I have learned which may be of assistance. I may be able to help her body react more strongly and hopefully heal faster," she explained. "Do you care to come inside with me?"

"Thanks..." Ellemiek smiled. "But I think I rather stay here. Thanks for the reassurance."

"Anytime," Alisson bowed before she made her way over to the Medical house.

***

Once inside the Medical house, Alisson saw Auron and Aeris. Kyra was lying down and still, which was not a bad sign, though it wasn't good either. She bowed at the two. "May I come inside?" she asked politely.

"Of course," Aeris said, with a dim smile, although it was visible that she was forcing it. "Cloud said that he called the doctor who used to treat her. Since you two are here I might as well tell you what is wrong with her. She is called a Night Walker. She got this during a mission in a planet called Klain. As you may know, Klain is known by the extension of wildlife, and for some reason it is a unique place to study the evolution of the species. It is said that each month they find a total of ten new animal species. One of those animals is one of the most dangerous animals known to exist. Once the victim is bitten the poison affects the nervous system, causing probably madness or something like that. Anyway, Kyra lost herself in the forest and got bitten by the dark angel, a flying bird with several pointy teeth. She was treated by this doctor called Kolonos, and was able to maintain herself intact, by these injections." She showed a capsule containing an orange liquid. "But it doesn't cure her. It only prolongs her life longer than without it. But now these capsules don't seem to work anymore."

"That explains the sporadic behavior," Auron said.

"Not quite. I think that the changes you noticed were not of behavior, but the Angelor taking over her body slowly. Which means why Ellemiek noticed her drastic change," Aeris said.

Alisson thought about what Aeris had told them and wondered why Kyra had not informed her friends and superior officers of her condition. Though such questions were not a priority at this time. "Perhaps there is a new antidote that can be given. Perhaps with the new medical science there are new discoveries for a way to counter this disease," Alisson commented, trying to grant some hope into the situation. "I will try some Jedi healing techniques. I can't assure you that they will cure her, but they will surely help her resist it and fight it harder."

"I don't how much good it will do.but at least we can give time until that Kolonos fellow arrives!" Auron said.

Alisson nodded and sat beside Kyra. She closed her eyes and placed her hands gently on her arm, barely touching them. She entered a deep concentration and felt Kyra through the Force. Her vital signs were not as strong as a healthy person, but she still had a presence through the Force, as all living things. Alisson was not an expert in Jedi healing techniques, but she had learned to pump up the vital organs and increase the immunity system's response against diseases and poisons as well as cuts and bruises. Hopefully, Kyra would fight this disease harder with her help.

***

Kyra stopped at the crossroad. She had a black hood with a long cape and she looked in every direction, still trying to find where she was. It seemed like she was in the poor side of some town. A strong noise came from the distance. She looked towards the noise and heard something distinct, like something being crushed.

Kyra took the street in front of her and started to run has fast she could. The sound of her feet was loud and her breath increased as she strolled to the semi curved tiny streets. The sound of crushing became nearer. Kyra increased her speed, but stopped facing dog like beasts. She looked towards the beast's eyes, but the sound of rubble falling down made her turn, facing a vast darkness that was destroying everything in it path.

Kyra ran towards the wall, grabbing the wood above the street. She continued to flee from the darkness, jumping from one wooden pole to the next, as fast as she could.

She reached a point that she stopped at a dead end. She turned backed to face the darkness approaching, still destroying everything in its path. Several black tentacles exited out of the darkness, towards her, and Kyra stood there without fearing what would happen next.

---

"Unanswered Questions, Part Two"
By: Cirran Tyris
Sgt. Mathias 'Walker' Coin

Location: Drogen Shipyards, Prison Level 2
Date: Vadris 17th, 4ABY

***

It seemed to Cirran that events had moved with surprising swiftness. Of course, he reasoned groggily to himself, it might be that loss of blood had affected his perceptions somewhat, but it felt to him that it had been a very short interval indeed between Walker stepping up to the angrily insane, stun-prod wielding Aqualish in the middle of a prison riot, and said Aqualish being loaded onto a stretcher amid relative calm. The stun-prod was still in the criminal's possession, but the soldiers and guards who were in the process of cleaning up after the riot and locking down the prison were nevertheless unconcerned.

As he sat on the dining room table in the centre of the hall, a medic began to attend to the nasty gash on Cirran's chest, as around them guards righted up-ended furniture, herded away the now cowed prisoners and attended to those injured amongst their own number. Walker loomed into Cirran's still swimming vision, having just pointed him out insistently to the medic.

"You're making a bit of a habit of this having people hand your arse to you, m'lad," Walker observed cheerfully - too cheerfully, for Cirran's liking - as the medic snipped open Cirran's gory jumpsuit and went about his work with bacta pads and painkillers.

"Yeah, well it's not part of a grand scheme or anything, I can assure you," Cirran muttered tersely, wincing as the thoroughly incapacitated Aqualish was carried out past him. Cirran gestured at his quietly groaning form as it was taken away. "How are they going to get that out, anyway?" he asked curiously.

"Not my department, spacer," Walker replied smiling. Participating in a decent scrap had obviously put him in a much better mood. "I'll leave that to the boys in medical...who might also be taking a look at your mate over there too, I'll wager," he added, nodding towards the prone form of Cirran's would-be assassin. "Friend of yours, was he?" he asked.

"Not exactly," said Cirran. "I think he was here on behalf of a former employer of mine."

"Oh, he came to retrieve the office supplies you stole then?" Walker chuckled.

"No, he came because I trashed his bosses' entire pirate fleet," Cirran replied. "His boss who is sort of, you know, a Hutt gangster."

"You pissed off a Hutt?" Walker feigned surprise. "Good, one spacer, I'd never have thought you had it in you. What happened to the lizard, anyway?"

"Er...I struck him dead with the power of my mind?" Cirran replied, as puzzled as anyone else who had witnessed the events in the dining hall.

"Oh, Darth Vader now, are you?" Walker chuckled. "Call me cynical, but somehow I don't think so." He sauntered over to the corpse of the one-eyed Saurin, bent down and ran a professional eye over the body. Something caught his attention at the Saurin's neck. He bent over and plucked something out of it. "Here's your culprit," he said, bringing a tiny dart up between his huge fingers. "Hmmm, very professional," he murmured appreciatively. "Looks like someone in here likes you!"

Cirran waited until the medic turned his attentions to other wounded, and then beckoned Walker over. "Your mysterious friend on the inside?" he whispered conspiratorially.

"Ha!" Walker boomed, and then lowered his voice when he realised people were looking at him. "Spacer, my friend on the inside is Ty. I was having him tap into and monitor communications into and out of the prison, and keep an eye on the internal surveillance footage. Didn't want to mention his name before; he's in enough trouble with Kir right now. And he's sure as hell's not responsible for this."

Realisation dawned on Cirran's face. "So...your friend on the inside...my protector and back-up here for two weeks in here...is in fact Ty, the slicer, sitting in a room somewhere else in the station, occasionally glancing at a monitor?"

"Well, gee, sorry spacer," grumbled Walker, "But I don't count a lot of convicted criminals amongst my friends. Sort of a side-effect of putting 'em in jail, you see. And Kir's watching me like a hawk at the moment, I could hardly go throwing my weight around down here."

"I dunno, you just made a pretty good job of that," Cirran said more appreciatively.

Walker grinned. "Yeah, well, Ty got on to me as soon as he saw what was going on down here anyway, and I got here as fast as I could."

Cirran thought about this. "And that would have been about 5 very critical minutes too late for me, had it not been for..."

"...whoever," Walker finished for him, joining Cirran in looking suspiciously around the room at the ongoing clean-up effort. "You done anyone any favours lately, flyboy?"

"Well, the cook in here might have appreciated me not turning him in for horrendous crimes against sentient life, but apart from that, I haven't even talked to anyone," Cirran mused.

"Something strange is going on here," Walker growled uneasily. "I don't like it."

"Well, I'm all for strange events that keep me non-perforated and still breathing," Cirran responded, shifting his weight painfully. "But who...I mean, why look out for me?

"Why indeed? You are pretty worthless," grinned the sergeant.

Cirran, mind wandering, let the jibe pass. "Something to do with our little effort on Gallor, perhaps?" he thought out loud.

But Walker's thoughts on this, and in fact any immediate further discussion on such matters, was cut off by the arrival of the prison administrator, who some 20 minutes after the last resisting prisoner had been pacified had finally decided things had calmed down enough for him to risk setting foot in the prison. He was a gaunt, no-nonsense type of man in his fifties, flanked by two guards. Walker snapped himself up to his full height - an imposing sight, which also allowed him to covertly conceal the dart responsible for the Saurin's death in a small pouch in his battle armour as he did so. He fired off a salute.

The administrator raised his hand in a 'that's not necessary' gesture. "At ease, Sergeant. Our thanks for your assistance. Your response to our little, er, incident, was remarkably swift."

Walker did not relax his parade-ground stance. "I was in the area, sir," he lied convincingly. "A soldier simply doesn't leave his comrades in the lurch, sir - I was more than happy to help, sir." Cirran smiled to himself at the way Walker made 'sir' approximately every third word when dealing with the 'brass'.

The administrator smiled in a tight-lipped fashion, obviously unaware about what Walker probably really thought about him. "Well, we thank you again for your outstanding efforts above and beyond the call. You are an outstanding example to my own men," he added, glancing sharply towards some of his own detail, clearly unimpressed by their recent performance. "I shall be reporting your brave actions to Captain Kir." He nodded a head towards Cirran - the first hint of any kind of acknowledgement of the wounded pilot - and his two escorts peeled off to each lay a hand on Cirran's shoulder.

"Thank you, sir," Walker said, seemingly unconcerned. "May I ask where this prisoner is being taken?" he inquired as casually as possible, as Cirran started to be led off unceremoniously.

"We're putting him in solitary confinement. As always, we want to make a good impression on the New Republic, and having their prisoner sliced open in our prison before he reaches trial is not the look we're going for. Orders from upstairs say we've got to keep him alive - we had no idea you would be so unpopular," he smirked at Cirran as he was taken past. Cirran smiled as sarcastically as possible, trying to annoy the officious man with the mere fact that he had survived. The officer's self-satisfied look vanished and turned back to Walker. "He'll be much safer out of the general population."

"Throw 'em all into a pen like crazed vornskrs and let them whittle their own numbers down sir, that's what I say," deadpanned Walker, meeting the indignant and incredulous backwards glance of Cirran with a quick and surreptitious wink that went unobserved by the senior officer.

The administrator chuckled to himself. "Yes, sergeant, I'd tend to agree with you on that," replied the officer, "But that particular scum is earmarked for other things. You're dismissed; we can finish up here without you. Thank you again." The administrator turned on his heel and addressed his own reporting sergeant in stern tones. Together they turned to face a ragged line of guards who had assembled for a debriefing after the riot, and at the administrator's behest, the NCO began to bark uncomplimentary things about the assembled troops and their mothers.

Not bad, thought Walker, taking a moment to admire the prison sergeant's stream of vehement rhetoric with the respect of a fellow professional. Looking around, Walker could see Cirran had been hustled away, and with little else he could do, he left the harried prison security staff behind to finish cleaning up the mess he'd made.

***

Outside the prison complex, a neutral observer may have noticed that one of the crowd of busybodies who had gathered to see what was all the converging troopers, security cordon and blaring alarms were about seemed to be paying attention to events with closer scrutiny than most. As Walker left, the cloaked figure raised an ever-present commlink.

"He's been put in solitary," said the figure into the commlink softly.

"Are you sure?" his superior replied into his earpiece.

"Yes, the bug I slapped on Coin is working perfectly," replied his minion. "I'm not sure he actually ever takes that armour of his off," he added, with a hint of disgust.

"Well, that's one thing you've done right," snapped the voice on the commlink. "We nearly lost Tyris again! From the initial reports in the station records it looks like that oaf of a sergeant was lucky not to arrive and find him eviscerated!"

"Varsk did his job well," replied the figure, trying to keep its voice even. The crowd began to disperse, seemingly disappointed that the violence at been contained within the prison. The cloaked figure pulled its hood up further and began to move off amongst them. "Amazing what an addict will do to get a fix. He used to be one of the best bounty hunters in the sector, and now he's reduced to doing our dirty work because we can smuggle a couple of tabs of salt into a secure area."

"I'm not interested in the life story of a wretched Arcona junkie!" the furious voice hissed via the commlink. "There's going to be all sorts of questions about what happened, and they will trace that dart eventually. See that to it that his next overdose is a fatal one, understand?"

The hooded figure sighed. "Understood," he affirmed. "Though I'm not sure who you expect to keep an eye on Tyris in there. I'm not going to get myself thrown into jail to..."

"Silence!" The voice was uncomfortably loud in his ear. "Prison on this crate is obviously not the safe haven we thought it was. If a second-rater like Durga the Hutt can get to our boy in their supposedly high security facility, he's just a sitting duck in there. How is it we didn't know that Durga was still after Tyris? Anyway, it's of little importance. Between the attentions of you and the good sergeant, he's better off outside until we can use him. I'm going to call in some favours and get the charges against him dropped."

The figure stopped in its tracks in the corridor. "But you risk exposure!" he whispered urgently. "That will take more influence at the New Republic than you..."

"Don't underestimate my influence," warned the voice of his boss icily. "If I can delay his damned trial, which I have, I can get it dropped."

"But it's not the same thing, you don't just sweep desertion in a war under the rug..." the figure started.

"Are you questioning me?" came the reply. The tone of the disembodied voice in his ear was now deadly dangerous. There was a lingering silence, during which the cloaked sentient took a long, deep breath, but said nothing.

"Very well then," replied his superior haughtily, assuming correctly that this silence represented acquiescence. "I suggest that you turn your attention to watching Tyris like a Gran 24 hours a day while we plan our next move. Do I make myself understood?"

"Perfectly," murmured the spy, and snapping off his commlink, he headed deeper into the station.

---

"Almost Father, Almost Son, All Family, Part 1"
By: Keeve Shivral
Kimara
Maeren Shivral

Location: Zenarr-Tregat Residence, New Plouton
Date: Vadris 17, 4 ABY

***

Together, Kim and Keeve watched as the last drop of chocolate dripped into the waiting mug. They looked up at one another and smiled. "Okay," Kim said. "That's Maeren's, and these two here are for us. I'll be waiting for you here, and take as much time as you need with her. We can always warm the chocolate up after or something. Okay? Oh, and if you aren't able to come back down to me, I'll understand. I know she's in a bad place now, and she needs lots of love."

Keeve smiled wanly as he raised Shiv's filled mug from the counter. "Don't we all, Kim? Besides, I think she'll go to sleep in no time. Sounds like she had a rough night. I can only imagine how hard it was to reject Kaysa and Cadwin's advances." Feeling a slight sense of hope in knowing she was able to resist, Keeve grinned and told Kim, "I think it's an important first step."

"It is," Kim said with a smile as she covered his hand with hers. "And, she came home for you, which is a big step too. You should talk to her about not coming over here as much anymore, not if Cadwin and Kaysa are going to keep trying to tempt her. Here, her chocolate is on the tray. Do you think she'll want anything else? We can put it on there for her too."

"The chocolate's fine for now," Keeve answered. "Thanks, Kim. You're a good friend to both of us. I know Maeren will really appreciate it." Accepting the tray from her, Keeve kissed her cheek, then stepped away smiling. "Warm up the couch for us. I won't be long."

"Okay," Kim said as he headed toward the door. "And, while you're gone, I'll slip into something more comfortable." With a last grin for him, she took their mugs of steaming chocolate and disappeared into the other room.

"Tease," Keeve muttered in amusement and headed for the stairs. The climb was a short one, and when he reached the top he'd hardly spilled a drop of the steaming chocolate. He knocked gently on the door with the toe of his boot. "Maeren? Are you awake?"

"I'm awake," came the reply on the other side of the door. As Keeve opened the door, Maeren sat up on the bed and smiled at him. "Is Kim alright?"

"She's fine. She's watching the holoprojector and drinking some hot chocolate." He grinned and raised the tray in presentation as he approached the bed. "I brought you a mug."

"Thank you," she whispered. "I'm so sorry about all of this, Keeve. I wish I was stronger. Now, with you helping me, I know I'll get through this."

Keeve gave her an admonishing look as he set down the tray and sat down beside her. "Maeren...you are strong. I mean...you didn't used to be, but tonight, you walked away when you could have just given into Kaysa and Cadwin. Doesn't that say something about how strong you really are?"

Shiv looked away. "There's something I didn't tell you, a part I...I didn't elaborate on. I started to give in...I couldn't help it...couldn't stop myself. But, then I was able to stop, and leave. I wasn't strong at first, but...but somehow I found the strength...I feel so terrible, Keeve..."

It was an effort to maintain a level-head, but using much of his newly found reserve, Keeve sighed and covered Shiv's knee with his hand. "You...didn't do anything with them no matter how much you wanted to. That's-- It's a start, Maeren. You may have started--" Keeve paused, watching her suspiciously. "What exactly is 'started', Maeren? How far exactly did you go before stopping?"

Shiv sighed heavily. "Do you really want details, Keeve? Can it just be enough that I left?"

"No," he told her curtly, unleashing a spurt of his anger. "You lied to me earlier, I can see that now. You did something, Maeren! Why the hells did you ask for my help if you can't even tell me the truth!?"

"So it counts for nothing that I left," Shiv snapped back. "It counts for nothing that I'm here now, rather than off in some club while Cadwin and Kaysa fuck my brains out! I came home, Keeve! I came here, to you! What the hells do you want with me? I want to stop being like this! I want to stop being some slut who can't close her legs when some guy whistles at her! I didn't give you details before because I knew you'd do this! You'd get all condescending and superior about it, and you'd make me feel even worse than I already do! I'm sorry I'm not perfect, alright!? But, I'm trying to get better!" By the time the last of her words were out of her mouth, tears were flowing freely but her face was red with the anger she was letting loose.

"Stop it," Keeve told her harshly. "Stop turning this around and blaming me! Isn't that part of the problem? You don't trust me, Maeren! You didn't trust me to tell me what really happened. Maeren," he said gently, "you lied to gain my sympathy. You lied because you didn't trust me to understand what you'd gone through. Is it so difficult to think that I might have changed? That I might just be a little more open-minded about what's happening with you?"

"I didn't lie, Keeve," Shiv said, her lips curling into a pout. "I just didn't tell you everything. Maybe you might be a little more understanding now, after talking to Dargus. But, I had no idea where you went after you said all those awful things to me, and then ran out. What was I supposed to think after that, Keeve? That I could tell you everything now and expect you to be understanding? When you've never been understanding about what's been going on with me before?"

"You've never tried to relate to me that there was something wrong before, Maeren," he said. "It was always 'I am the way that I am and why can't you accept that?'. I was always the bad guy, Maeren, and there was nothing at all wrong with what you were doing. Of course I'd be far more understanding if you admitted, for once, that there was some sense to what I have been saying all along."

"If you really think telling me 'I told you so' will make you feel better, Keeve, then go ahead," Shiv said. "I know there's a problem now, alright? I know I need help. Will you please stop ripping me apart over it? I can't take it anymore...not like this."

Keeve sighed wearily. "Maeren...I'll stop pestering you if you just promise to tell me the truth. Stop holding it all in," he urged her gently. "Just...tell me, Maeren. It's killing you to keep all this to yourself. I'm...I'm your husband. I owe it to you to help you through all this."

Shiv sighed again and nodded. "And, I owe it to you to be honest with you about everything. I won't hold it all in anymore, Keeve. I want to get better and...stop being like I have been."

He smiled warmly and cupped her cheek in his palm. "Me, too. I'll be as understanding as I can, Maeren. We'll both falter...but I think we can help each other be the person we want to be."

Shiv smiled and turned her lips to kiss his palm. "That sounds perfect," she said. "And, you've got Kim to help you too, but you're all I need to help me get through this, Keeve."

"You sure?" he asked her teasingly. "I mean...you can't use some Hope affection to help you along? I bet she misses her mommy." Leaning in and brushing his lips with Shiv's lightly, Keeve whispered, "I know I have."

"I've missed you both," Shiv said with a loving smile. "I guess...since...since I can't have children, Hope will really be my baby now. Oh gods, Keeve, and she's at home all alone right now."

"Don't worry," he whispered, "I'll run out with Kim to get her. Unless you wanted to just go home. It might be better for you, Maeren. It'll keep you far from any...temptations."

"You're right," she said with a smile for him. "I should go home. My baby's all alone there, and...and Kaysa and Cadwin won't be there."

His smile faltered, but not out of anger, only concern. "You sure you don't want to tell me what happened? I...I promise not to yell."

"I'd rather not," Shiv said. "Not because I want to keep it from you, but because...I know how upset you get, and...after what happened earlier, I don't want to cause any more of that. Let's just say they were very persistent, and enticing, but in the end, it wasn't what I wanted." Before she realized it, she was actually telling him more than she'd intended. "We had some drinks out on the dancefloor, and Kaysa and I were dancing. And, she was telling me to forget how upset I was. Then we were going into the back with Cadwin, to a room, and Kaysa's hands were...everywhere...and...somehow, in the heat of the moment, we somehow got undressed, and then there was a pile, and I was at the bottom...and Kaysa and Cadwin were fucking...and then they said they had a surprise for me...and, I wasn't sure what was what...I was delirious, I think, from all the feelings, and...and then he was inside me. I didn't know what to do, and I felt trapped...and then...then Kaysa put her...her whole hand in me...and...and...I was so scared, and...it'd definitely stopped being pleasure...I...I had to leave, but I couldn't..."

Keeve's once warm touch cooled against Shiv's cheek, though his anger was raging hot inside him. It was difficult keeping it bottled up. "You-- You let them do those things to you?" he asked with some effort as his throat was tightening in disgust. "Have you done that sort of thing before, Maeren? With...others?"

"Done what, Keeve," Shiv asked. "You don't want to know what I had to do the first time I was caught by Dargus. I'd had too much to drink and too much spice, and I was confused and hurt, and I let Kaysa talk me into things I shouldn't have. I was upset over what happened, and...your mother can be very good at talking people into things. I don't know what you want me to say, Keeve."

"I don't know," he sighed. "I just...I want to know if that's the sort of thing you like. Because I can't give that to you, Maeren. I won't be like my mother, or Dargus. I won't seduce you, or pump you with alcohol, or force you to get you into bed. Sometimes, Maeren, I'm not even sure I satisfy you."

"Every time we've been together," Shiv answered, "you have. And, that's not what I want. I realized that tonight, Keeve. With the two of them, all I could see was your face, and us together...and I didn't want to be there any longer, and I don't want to do that again. I only want you, Keeve. I only want my husband."

He nodded decisively. "Good. Then drink up your hot chocolate and get ready to leave. We're not staying here another minute with those sick bastards. We'll come by as often as possible to visit Aria, but I don't want anything to do with either of them anymore."

"Okay," Shiv said as she brought the mug to her lips and took a long sip. "Maybe we can talk Zale into bringing Aria to our place sometimes."

"Really?" Keeve was stunned by her ready agreement and watched her in astonishment. "You'll really do it, Maeren? You'll forget about them both?"

"To be all better, and to be happy with you," Shiv said. "Anything, anything at all."

"Then we'll do it!" he announced joyously. Careful not to spill her chocolate, Keeve kissed Shiv deeply, then pulled away with a laugh. "This'll be a new start for us, Maeren. We'll finally have the family we were meant to have."

Shiv grinned happily at Keeve and, while holding the mug in one hand, slipped her other into his. "I'm starting to feel a lot better already. But, what I think I really need, after this chocolate, is my little reisakitty and some sleep."

"I think I can arrange that," he told her, smiling suavely. "Let me go talk to Kim and then we can go. We'll come back for all our things tomorrow. So" --he kissed her forehead-- "drink up."

Shiv watched him as he walked toward the door, a content smile on her lips even after he was gone. Then she raised the mug and drank, the chocolate inside tasting much sweeter than previously. It was true, she felt far better than she had in quite a long time. And, above everything else, she felt loved more than she could remember in a very long time. Their lives were definitely turning around.

Hopefully, they'd be able to stay that way...

***

"Kim!" Keeve called, hurrying down the stairs. "Are you finished drinking? We're leaving soon."

"Not finished yet," Kim said as she stood from the couch, showing him the mug that still appeared to have some liquid chocolate in it. It appeared that she wasn't quite finished with it yet because time had been taken to change her clothing. She was now wearing a short robe, belted around her waist, and what appeared to be little else. The robe gave a better than good view of her long legs. She gave him a smile as Keeve took in the deep blue garment with his eyes. "I guess I'll have to change again then, won't I?"

"Wha--" Keeve tripped on the last step, coming to a stumbling halt at the entry of the living area. He looked around quickly to ensure Shiv was still upstairs, before whispering, "What are you doing?! I thought-- You said you were going to wear something comfortable. You're...you're not wearing anything at all!"

Kim grinned. "But, it is very comfortable," she said. "But, if you'd prefer, I could make it nothing at all."

Keeve rushed towards her in a panic, and with barely a foot between them, the short distance bringing the subtle curves outlined by the silken garment into greater prominence, he shrieked, "What are you trying to do to me?! Maeren's upstairs waiting for us and you're" --he gestured wildly at her-- "standing here like that! You're trying to drive me over the edge, aren't you?"

"No," Kim answered, "I'm trying to be comfortable. If you want me to put more on, I will. I was just getting comfortable. This is just normal for me, Keeve. It's comfortable, and nice, and I like it."

"So do I!" he told her. "That's the problem. I'm liking it a little too much, and I can't afford to...slip," Keeve said, glancing down at the length of her legs, "after promising Maeren I wouldn't sleep with you."

Kim noticed the glance and smiled to herself. "I'll go change then," she said. "After I finish my chocolate though."

Keeve snorted in frustration. "Fine." And stalked off. "I'll find you a blanket to cover up!"

"But, I don't need a blanket," Kim called after him as she returned to the couch to finish her chocolate. She couldn't stop grinning as she sipped at the drink, waiting for Keeve to return to help instill some modesty in her life.

"I can't believe you'd do this to me," Keeve was still muttering sullenly as he made his way back to the living area. Draped over his forearm was a folded blanket - a large folded blanket. He stopped in front of Kim, her lips twitching slightly with a suppressed smile, and said, "Here," then grasped either corner of the blanket and unfurled it with a snap of his wrists. After letting it fall gently over Kim, Keeve began adjusting the blanket to ensure no flesh was left uncovered. "You did this on purpose," he accused. "I'm sure you would've been just as comfortable in pants and a shirt."

"This is my chocolate sipping outfit," Kim said with a pout. "And, besides, you love it, even though it may have been naughty of me. You still love it."

He glowered and stood over her with arms crossed. "I do," he admitted reluctantly. "That doesn't mean it was right to do. Besides, we're leaving soon. You can get comfortable when we arrive at the apartment."

"I'll go get dressed again," Kim said with a grin. "And, I won't even ask you to help me."

"And I wouldn't if you did," he riposted sardonically. "You're bad news, you know that, Kimara?"

"It's part of my charm," Kim said as she snuggled deeper beneath the blanket to finish off her chocolate. "If you want yours, it's still over here."

Keeve glanced between his beverage and Kim's sweetly alluring smile, nearly giving in to the latter. But, using a fresh spurt of resolve, Keeve shook his head firmly and backed away. "There's no way I'm falling for it, you flirt. Getting cozy with one another and drinking hot chocolate together under that blanket can only lead to one thing...and I've already told you," Keeve finished, reaching the entryway, "I can't have sex with you!"

"At least not with my daughter around," came a voice behind both of them. "Keeve, Kim, I'm not even going to ask, other than to ask, how everything is."

---

"Almost Father, Almost Son, All Family, Part 2"
By: Keeve Shivral
Kimara
Maeren Shivral
Zale Tregat
Aria Tregat

Location: Zenarr-Tregat Residence, New Plouton
Date: Vadris 17, 4 ABY

***

Keeve swung around, nearly tripping on the low step leading into the living area as he did. A very weary, yet smiling Zale with baby Aria bundled safely in his arms met Keeve's surprised regard. He sighed and gave his sister a large grin as he approached for a kiss. The sleeping child barely stirred when his warm lips touched the tip of her nose. "How was she?" he whispered. "Was she crying?"

"Barely a peep," Zale said with a grin as he turned so Keeve would be able to better see his baby sister. "There was one diaper incident that I won't go into, but other than that, she was happy and content. I figured, with Kaysa out again, I'd go over and visit with Saris and Moril. They were very happy to have us. You should come over with us sometime. I'm sure they'd love to have you, despite that one incident between you and Moril."

"Oh, we're over that," Keeve assured him absently, instead keeping all his attention on Aria. "Kim and I will drop by tomorrow or something. Right, Kim?" he called back to her.

"Of course," Kim called from beneath her blanket. "And, we'll wear lots of clothes."

Keeve grumbled and shot a scathing look her way. "Besides," he sighed, addressing Zale again, "there are a few things we all need to talk about. It'd be best to do it together. Such as...." He hesitated, but one glimpse at Aria, so peaceful, innocent, and oblivious to her mother's negligence, and Keeve refused to restrain himself. "Kaysa's out with Cadwin again, Zale. Now, I know you insisted there was nothing wrong with that, but you should hear the things Maeren's told me. Hells, she nearly had to fight her way home when Kaysa and that Cadwin jerk forced her into bed. She's your wife, Zale, and it's your responsibility to keep her in check!"

Zale's face darkened at Keeve's words, but he showed no other outward sign of anger. He knew he would need to keep those feelings in check for as long as Aria was in his arms. He could be upset later. "I'll talk to her," he said. "I'm sure it won't be a pleasant conversation, but I'll talk to her. Thank you for saying something, Keeve. Is Maeren alright?"

He shrugged. "I think she was pretty shaken up. She's even agreed not to see them again. Not to see Kaysa, Zale!" he reiterated for effect. "Would you ever have believed Maeren could do something like that? She wants to just pack up and leave here and never come back." Keeve jutted out his chin haughtily as he said, "I may be stubborn and prudish, but at least I had the sense to realize beforehand that this spice-smoking and partying wouldn't lead to any good. I told you so, Zale."

"Well, it's lead here," Zale said. "Let's see if I can talk to Kaysa and end it. She can be just as stubborn, so we'll have to see. So, what are your plans now?"

"Kim, Maeren and I are going to the apartment. Maeren doesn't want to be here when Kaysa gets back. If she ever does," he muttered, then added, "We can stay a little longer, though, if you want to talk to her. She's upstairs resting now."

"No," Zale said. "It's alright. And, I'll stop by tomorrow to see her and we can talk then. If she's trying to rest, it's probably better to just let her rest, and not bring it all back up again."

Keeve exhaled slowly, reining in his own emotions. "Fine.... We'd better get going then. You sure you and Aria will be alright alone? We can take her with us for the evening if you want to be alone with Kaysa and Cadwin."

"She'll be fine," Zale said. "I don't think I'm going to confront them tonight. I'll talk to Kaysa tomorrow, but I may bring Aria over before I do. Unless you really want to take her with you tonight. I was figuring you may have your hands full."

"With this one?" He jerked his thumb towards Kim. "She's been trying to seduce me all night."

Zale glanced over and saw Kim peek her head over the couch and grin. "Well, it could be worse," he said. "She could have succeeded, right?"

Keeve chuckled uncomfortably, unwilling to admit how close they had come. Clearing his throat, Keeve snapped his fingers at Kim and said quickly, "You'd better get dressed. We're leaving now."

Kim set her mug down and hopped up off the couch to snap him a brisk salute. In the little robe she was wearing, it gave more than a glimpse of what lie beneath. She gave him a big grin, and quickly hurried off to grab warmer clothing for the trip back to Keeve and Maeren's apartment.

Keeve gave Zale a despairing look. "See what I have to put up with? And after Dargus admitted she's not really a clone, how hard do you think it is for me to resist her?"

Zale raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean Kim's not a clone," he asked. "That means...Maeren, right? Maeren's really the clone?" He let out a low whistle. "Just when things were starting to make sense."

Keeve sighed exhaustedly and nodded full agreement. "Now do you blame me for always being a brat? My wife isn't really my wife and now, the woman who really should've been my wife...I can't even sleep with because I'm already married. Frustrating, huh?"

"Very," Zale said. "What will you do?"

"Go home, for now," he answered. "From there...I'm going to help Maeren get better. I do still love her, Zale. I'm just not sure if I don't feel more sympathy for her than affection. She doesn't know yet, though," Keeve told him quickly. "So...this should sorta be a secret between us" --he smirked-- "Father."

Zale gave Keeve a smile and nodded. "I won't say a word until I've heard from you. They're both wonderful, young women and I think you'd be very happy with either or both. I don't know if there's any way through this without hurting one of them, but if you need any help or advice through this, I'm here for you. And, I'm sure your sister will be here for moral support and...drooling."

Keeve chuckled weakly. "Yeah...though wait till you talk to Kaysa before handing out relationship advice, okay?" he advised. "It'd probably be best if you talk to her alone...without Cadwin there to influence her."

"You don't know how tempting it is, just based on what you've said, to give Moril a call to arrange a little surprise for Cadwin," Zale said. "And, if he knew, I doubt he'd even wait for me to say anything. I'll talk to her, and if Cadwin tries to butt his way in, I'll introduce him to the present Dargus gave him." While holding little Aria in one arm, Zale held up the other, an artificial hand courtesy of Dargus Kandran's lightsaber. "I wonder if Cadwin would like a spanking like the ones I used to give you."

"Yeah," Keeve muttered, nearly reaching back to rub away the remembered pain. "Though, I did get you back. Still have that buzzing in your ear from Elf's electric shock?" He smirked.

"From time to time, I sent electric arcs between myself and metal objects," Zale said with a grin. "Though, I'm not sure if that's from Elf or when Kaysa used that nerf prod on me when she went after Dargus."

Snickering, Keeve companionably clapped Zale on the arm and taunted, "Make sure she's not armed this time. You're no match for her."

"Oh, I've made some improvements to my hand," Zale said with a grin. "Still, I'm just hoping that we can discuss it. I'd rather it not turn into a fight. Things get monumentally more difficult when she starts to dig her heels in."

"And if she's hi on spice or...intoxicated?" Keeve asked carefully. "Maeren's told me stories from when they first met...."

"I can deal with it," Zale said. "I'm good with conflict, despite my past performance. I'm no Jedi, but I've been around a bit and I can deal with problems. If she's doped up on anything, I know some tricks."

Keeve raised an eyebrow inquisitively. "Oh? Anything you can teach me one of these days? Especially," he confided, leaning in towards Zale and watching for Kim's return, "when Kim gets too...eager."

"I'll show you a few tricks," Zale said with a grin. "Though, tonight, you should get your women home." With that, he nodded toward the door where Kim had just emerged.

Keeve turned his head towards her, and his body followed when their eyes met. He smiled. "Ready?"

"I'm ready," she said, doing a stylish turn for him to show him the non-revealing, cold-weather outfit she now wore for him. "All bundled up and ready for the blizzard out there."

"Good. Then go start up the speeder." He smiled charmingly. "Please?"

Kim grinned at him, then she gave a little wave and scampered toward the door.

Zale looked between the two and shook his head. "On one hand I envy you, but on the other, I definitely don't envy you."

"Yeah," he sighed, watching Kim until she was out the door. Chuckling to himself, Keeve said, "I mean...me, Kim and Maeren in the same room at the same time? Both require so much attention...I'm not sure how I'm going to do it." He shrugged. "Good luck to us both, I guess."

"To us both," Zale said with a grin. "I'll see you tomorrow, Keeve. I'll let you know how it goes with Kaysa." He gave the young man a smile, then held out a hand to him. "I'm sure we'll get through his, but I can't promise what we'll look like on the other end."

"Well," he quipped, trapping Zale's hand in a firm grip, "you can't get any worse-looking, so what are you worried about?" And hoping it would dissuade Zale from swatting him in the head, Keeve leaned over and kissed Aria's brow. "Night, little sister," he whispered, then looked up at Zale and added, "You too, Almost Father."

"I'm proud of you, Keeve," Zale said with a hint of affection in his tone. "I'll see you soon. Have a good night, and a safe one." With that, he ruffled Keeve's hair and stepped back to let him head upstairs to get Maeren.

Zale's comment had turned Keeve's cheeks as red as an open-handed slap would have. But hearing the man he'd once nearly killed admit pride in him gave Keeve a confidence boost he knew would definitely be required for the struggles that lay ahead. So, with an optimism inspired by Zale's, and his praise, Keeve smiled to himself and headed for the stairs. Now, juggling two women - one near a mental breakdown and the other an unrelenting tease - didn't seem nearly as difficult a task as it had originally.

As the door to the room opened, Shiv opened her eyes and sat up. At the sight of Keeve framed in the doorway, she smiled. "Hi there," she said as she pushed back the covers and looked around for some clothing. "Time to go home?"

"Yeah...Zale's home and he plans on having a long chat with Kaysa when she arrives...so we'd better not be here when she is," he responded. "Just change for now and we can grab the rest of your clothes another day."

"Okay," Shiv said and slipped out of the bed. She moved to her closet and rummaged for a moment before coming away with a long skirt and thick, warm sweater. She undressed quickly and pulled on the clothing. She then grabbed a pair of boots and a set of long socks. Within just a few minutes, she was fully dressed and approached Keeve. "Thank you for being here for me, Keeve. You don't know how much it means to me to have you still by my side."

"I married you," he explained glibly, "it's my duty. And as long as you try to keep your promise to us, I'll still be here."

"I promise," Shiv said with a smile as she raised a hand to caress his cheek. "And, I'd rather you do it because you love me and want to, rather than just doing your duty."

He grinned. "How about a little of both? Now come on...let's get going. I think Kim's excited to see you." Stepping aside, Keeve rested his hand on the small of Shiv's back and led her out of the room, one, if he had any say in the matter, they would never sleep in again.

"There she is," came a deep voice from the base of the stairs. Zale stood there with Aria still in his arms, though much less bundled than before. "I heard you haven't had the best of nights. I'll be bringing the little one over tomorrow and we can have a long chat."

Shiv grinned and stuck a finger out to Aria as she got close. The infant quickly reached out with both hands and grasped it. Shiv laughed as Aria tried to draw her finger into her mouth. As she looked down into the happy face, tears welled in her own eyes at the realization of what Keeve had told her earlier. She swallowed, but didn't pull her hand away. "I can't get over how beautiful she is."

"She's got my genes," Keeve explained, "why wouldn't she be?" He nodded silent gratitude to Zale, for his advice and most of all his tender care of Aria. Turning his lips to Shiv's ear, he whispered, "Time to go. We'll see her again soon."

"Tomorrow," Shiv whispered with a smile as she whispered in babytalk to Aria. With a final smile, she stepped back and slipped her hand into Keeve's. "I guess we should go before Kim leaves without us."

"She would, too," Keeve joked. Giving his sister one last kiss, and a final wave to Zale, Keeve and Shiv took their leave. It was still snowing when the door slid away for them, and instinctively Keeve opened his jacket for Shiv and wrapped her in it for protection against the harsh cold. "Warm enough?" he asked softly.

"I am now," Shiv whispered. She looked up at him and smiled. "Do you suppose Hope's okay?"

"She will be once her mommy comes home," Keeve answered with a grin. Motioning his head towards the speeder, Keeve and Shiv left the mansion behind and hurried through the snow to the vehicle. Kim released the hatches when they neared, and Keeve continued to shield Shiv from the snow as she slipped inside. He followed behind.

Shiv slipped into the back of the speeder and slid over behind Kim's seat. She smiled over at Keeve as he entered. She noticed that Kim had turned back to watch her, and Shiv reached up and took her hand. "I'm sorry about earlier," she said.

"You should be," Kim said with a grin. "And, I'm sorry for starting to give your husband a handjob."

"Don't worry about it," Shiv said. "Just don't make it too much of a habit."

"Hey," Keeve interjected petulantly, "I'm right here. I should be deciding who gives me handjobs and when, not you two."

"Well, true," Shiv said with a grin as she snuggled closer to him. "Though, it seemed as if you had made that decision earlier until I interrupted the two of you. Kim had the situation well in hand, and didn't need me barging in."

He grumbled, irritated by their laughter. "You two are trouble together," he sulked. "Kim, you drive. Maeren, you work on conserving energy. That means," he stressed, "no talking."

As Kim's stifled laughter filled the speeder, Maeren curled in against Keeve, resting her head against his shoulder for their trip home. Despite what had happened earlier, she was feeling far happier and content than she had in some time. Perhaps things were getting better already.

---

"It's Just a Job"
By Phalen Maxim, (PC)

Location: Drogen
Date: Vadris 17th, 4ABY

***

"It's about time!" the red head exclaimed. "I've been waiting over a standard hour! What is with you people?!"

Phalen, dressed in a techs jumpsuit and carrying a toolbox just shrugged his shoulders, "Sorry ma'am, paperwork musta been crossed," he said with an apologetic tone and look about his face. "I realized the mistake when I went to replace a power coupling on a freighter 10 bays down, didn't need a power coupling after all! It happens...nothing gets done around here without some paper pushing, and when the paperwork is..." he rambled before she cut him off.

"Look, I don't give a Gundark's ass, alright?! Just get this confounded thing fixed so I get out of this forsaken system!!"

"Yes ma'am!" Phalen said with a wink as he motioned for her lead the way.

The red head led him up the ramp into her ship, a Sullustian Light Tramp Freighter. It was kind of boxy in shape, but the edges were rounded off and the body had an over-all streamlined look about it. Clearly it was designed as a work-horse, to be more dependable and sturdy than for aesthetic value. Phalen could appreciate that, he valued worth of use than worth of appearance.

He followed behind her as she led him back into the engine maintenance compartment. He opened the tool box while he followed and procured a small yet effective BlasTech model blaster.

"Excuse me," he said to her as he dropped the open tool box from his grasp.

It clanged loudly against the durasteel floor with the clatter of tools, startling the woman.

Jumpy, he thought to himself as she turned around with a start.

"What the?!" she exclaimed before being silenced by the sight of the blaster pointed at her chest. "Oh..."

"I'm sure you know why I am here," Phalen said gravely.

"I'm sure," she said almost in a whisper.

Phalen took a few steps back, never taking his eye of her, nor did the direction of the blaster leave its mark. He slapped the control panel to shut the safety door, closing them in the engine maintenance compartment.

"Listen, I will pay you twice what they offered," she said as her lip quivered.

"I doubt you have the resources," Phalen replied emotionlessly. "Besides, that would be a breach of contract. Kinda hard to maintain a level of reputation when you don't stay loyal to your employers...you would know all about that wouldn't you Miss Boofay?"

"If you knew the truth about the atrocities the Empire committed in the name of justice, you would understand," she said as she fought back tears. "But I guess you would know all about that, wouldn't you!"

"I don't have much in the ways of ethics or allegiances," he said told. "Its just a job, and I always do my job."

"Please..." she implored as her knees buckled and she slumped to the floor. She slyly reached for one of the tools that had fallen out of the box.

Pathetic, Phalen thought as he stepped forward, stepping on her hand and placing the blaster to her scalp.

"It's nothing personal," he said as he pulled the trigger.

---

"A New Home"
By Alexis Soren, smuggler

Location: Corporate Sector - Drogen Shipyards
Date: Vadris 17, 4 ABY

***

Alexis Soren relaxed in the chair as the ship sped through space. It seemed to be doing alright, there was no need for him to interfere really. Alexis didn't really know where he was going, he'd had to flee a couple of weeks ago after some rather disastrous smuggling runs. His old business associates were almost certainly looking for him and he had no wish for them to find him. Not that they would look too hard, once they realised he was gone and not coming back that would be the end of their concerns, they would simply tell everyone they had killed him horribly. It did however mean that Alexis was starting from scratch. He had a large supply of credits but certainly not enough to sustain him. He would have to find business associates, corrupt officials, things to smuggle, things to steal and all this would take time. The frightening thought of having to actually find legitimate work was looming, and that was not a happy thought.

Alexis had once been legitimately employed, he had been a freighter pilot, working for a respectable company, delivering innocent things here and there. Then his old employer was arrested for tax evasion and that had been that; Alexis had stolen the ship and been a smuggler ever since. He enjoyed it much more. He was also very good at it, no risk was too big, no danger too great, as long as he was getting paid well for it of course. He dodged official patrols with ease and talked his way out of any trouble he got into, except for the last two times. Alexis felt he had been set up, with official patrols waiting for him when he dropped out of hyperspace. He had managed to get away twice, but he had been extremely lucky. Still, Alexis was sure that everything would be OK wherever he was going. Wherever that was. Alexis still hadn't decided yet, he was heading towards the Corporate Sector though, and stuff was always going on there.

He had heard of a major casino in the area, having a month of special competitions, sabaac tournaments, sporting events, games of skill and chance. Alexis was terrible at these, but a lot of money moving around could easily end up in his pocket, but he didn't know. Alexis checked the time; he should be coming out of hyperspace soon, he had set the co-ordinates while he had been drinking and so was hoping he would come out somewhere reasonable.

He decided he should go and prepare himself for wherever he would emerge, he wanted to look his best. Alexis could be quite vain and this was clearly apparent to anyone who met him. As he was preparing himself in front of the mirror, he heard a beeping sound coming from the cockpit. He rushed back and jumped back into the seat. His hands working the controls, the ship shuddered slightly and dropped back into realspace. He checked the computer, but he needn't have bothered. Directly in front of his ship was a rather large space station. He remembered where he was now, the Drogen Shipyards. Of course, a friend of his had told him about the Drogen Shipyards a couple of months ago and advised him to check it out if he was ever there. Well here he was.

Alexis was quickly granted permission to dock with the station. They seemed to have a lot of traffic and didn't seem to be worried about who was coming aboard, although he was warned that the station had strict rules which he should abide. Alexis shrugged this off. Most stations said that, basically so if you did mess up they could be as violent as they wanted in dealing with you as they had warned you.

Alexis quickly made his way off his ship as soon as it was docked. He had been cooped up for a while and needed to get into a slightly bigger sealed metal box. Alexis had never named his ship, to him it was still Art's Business Freighter 1. Once he bought his own ship, a ship that was really his, then it would be named. Whenever he docked or was asked the ship was always described ABF1, a boring name he admitted but one the ship had grown into.

Alexis quickly realised that the Drogen Shipyards were his kind of place, bars, shops, blaster shops, it was a hive of activity, smugglers, traders, and some extremely dangerous looking people. While Alexis liked it he realised he should perhaps buy some more firepower soon, to put off any of these would-be assailants. But that could wait for another day, right now he was enjoying the atmosphere and the snatched conversations of a hundred strangers. Yes, Alexis felt at home here.

---

"Gift Giving, Part 1"
By: Koran Darr
Laedra Vorrel
Cole Slaton
Vaya Bek
Zari Zathmir
Win'Los
Vee'Ta

Location: The Helix; Surface of Hjar 1
Date: Vadris 17, 4 ABY

***

Just an hour ago, the planet had been just a bright blip in the distance. Now, now it filled the viewport Koran Darr and Laedra Vorrel gazed through. The ship rumbled as its landing gear was extended and it arced downward toward the conflict that had raged for so long, that they were expected to heal.

Koran looked at Laedra and squeezed her hand. "Are you ready for this?" he asked. "Not that there is any turning back now. Despite the danger, I believe this could be the first true test of our new Jedi Order."

"I am confident," Laedra answered and smiled at her mate. "It's the children I'm more worried about."

"Yes," Koran said with a sigh. "We will have to watch closely, but their training has been good. Our first task should be to meet with the Hjari leaders, if they will see us."

"And if not, is our mission complete?" she asked.

Koran thought for a moment, then finally nodded. "Yes, then our mission is over. I would like to be able to help them, but if they do not wish for us to help them, then there is nothing we can do for them."

"What of those people who do wish for our assistance?" she asked curiously. "What of Win'Los and Vee'Ta?"

"We cannot overthrow the established government of a planet on the authority of two beings who do not have the backing of their leadership."

"Then," Laedra decided, "we will have to then prepare accommodations for them at the Temple, for I do not doubt they will beseech us for asylum if this fails."

"We can give them temporary lodging at the Temple until more suitable arrangements can be made," Koran said.

"We will have no choice but to if we do not succeed, for they have placed all their hopes and faith in us." Laedra sighed and muttered, "I just hope their trust was not misplaced."

Koran raised an eyebrow. "They've already admitted to misleading us," he said, surprised by her sudden change of heart. "Laedra, they withheld the truth from us in order to gain our assistance. If they had not misrepresented themselves and their cause, things would have been very different. It wasn't until we were on our way to their planet that we found out the truth, and that we may not even be welcome there. If there was any misplaced trust in this matter, it would be in our acceptance of their words from the start."

"They were desperate," she reminded him gently. "I do not condone their lies...but they had everything to lose and we were their last chance for freedom. If you had no other avenue to explore, would you, too, not at least entertain the same methods they implemented in recruiting our aid?"

"If one man came to you and asked you to overthrow his entire planet's way of life, against the will of the two factions that lead, would you?"

"It depends on other factors involved," Laedra answered diplomatically. "If people's lives were at stake if we did not intervene, I would strongly consider interfering. Such loss can never be condoned, Koran. Never."

"If that is the case here," Koran said, "do we send the Padawans home? Or do we bring them into the war between us and the people of the planet? Do we ask them to assist us in forcing our will upon this planet, light-years from our own home?"

Laedra smiled at him admonishingly. "Koran, I have not suggested we march in there and impose changes upon them. I'm merely expressing that if innocent lives are being lost needlessly, I'm not so certain I can simply stand back and allow such atrocities to continue. Can you?"

"And, not sitting back means you would take action," Koran said. "All I am asking is what action you would take, and how would you handle the young ones we have brought with us."

"Am I being tested, Koran Darr?" she asked with a raised eyebrow. "Do you not trust me?"

"From what you have said," Koran said, "it doesn't sound as if you trust yourself. I need to know, before we are on the ground, if Win'Los and Vee'Ta's leaders do not wish for us to assist them, what do you plan to do?"

Laedra watched him impassively to conceal her disappointment. "I will forget you asked me that, Koran," she said quietly. "I am not a rogue, and I am not a Padawan. Have I not proven myself reliable and worthy of being accorded the title 'Jedi Master'?" She sighed. "It is not my actions you need to worry about, Koran, it's the Padawans'. I suggest you focus on them rather than on what you believe I might do if the situation on Hjar 1 disintegrates. I am not an unstable, confused child any longer. I am your peer, your equal, and I will not be spoken this way by you, of all people." Laedra bowed to Koran with far more respect than he had shown her. "Now if you'll excuse me, Master Jedi, I must prepare the children." And with barely a glance at him, she turned for the doorway.

"Stop," Koran said, his voice filled with an air of command. "Just hours ago, we were in agreement on the situation and what we would do if the leaders rejected us. Now, you have come completely around to the opposite side, almost to the point of stating we should assist Win'Los and Vee'Ta, even if their leaders will not permit it. As for the doubts I may suddenly be expressing, you told me that you were not certain if you could simply stand back if the situation warranted. That is the crux of my questions to you, Master Vorrel. I am trying to find out where you now stand on this matter, because it is very different from the last time we spoke on it."

With her back to Koran, but no longer proceeding towards the door, Laedra answered, "You will find that out, Master Darr, if and when we are confronted with such a situation. I'm afraid you will have to be satisfied with that answer, Koran. If you truly do trust me, you will be. Now, may I go?"

"I trust you implicitly," Koran stated, though he did not like the sudden distance between them, and Laedra's unwillingness to speak of the matter with him. He trusted her, but he also trusted her to do what she thought was right toward the situation. He only hoped that the words she spoke and the actions differed, otherwise he did not believe he would be able to trust her on missions of such importance again. Communication was crucial, and the communication between the two Jedi Masters had been abruptly severed and Laedra seemed to show no interest in restoring it. "I will meet you in the cargo bay once you have spoken to the Padawans; I will have our speeder prepared."

"Thank you," she replied and was gone.

On her way to the Padawans, she summoned all her training to keep her emotions under control. It took Laedra everything she had, but she succeeded and was as reserved as ever when she arrived at the Padawans' quarters. She looked over each of the young students inspectively, scrutinizing their uniforms, though only with pretended severity. When she had completed her examination, Laedra smiled. "Are you all ready for your first endeavour as representatives of the Jedi Order?"

Zari was first to notice Laedra and had quickly sprung from her bed to stand ready for her new Master. "I'm very excited, Master," she said, her eyes glittering with excitement. "I'm ready!"

Laedra nodded and shifted her gaze to the other two Padawans. "Any reservations before we land?"

Vaya bowed to her Jedi mentor, "I am ready Master. The Force will be with us."

I'm as ready as I'll ever be... he thought, sliding his arm through his brown robe. He pulled the hood up over his head allowing the excess material to hang loose in front of his face, interlocking his fingers in front of him. He turned to Laedra standing in the doorway. "I am also ready, Master." He kept the excitement that Zari showed, bowing as he spoke. There was something else in the background. Elusive. Was it his vision plaguing his mind?

He couldn't see how his vision had anything to do with this mission, he remembered the sky and surroundings. Though there had been a red sun in the sky; it was still night with many stars shining brightly overhead. He had spent anxious moments looking over the system scans and saw that this planet didn't have a red sun.

"Before anything," Laedra told the trio, "I just want you to know that Koran and I are proud of you and we have faith that you will serve the Order well." She smiled and moved aside, gesturing to the door. "He is awaiting us in the cargo bay. We land soon, and it's imperative we review our roles one final time."

Zari started toward the door, leading the way. Her bare feet made hardly a sound as they whispered along the floor. She was still excited, an excitement the others could feel, but there was a control to it as well.

***

The bulkheads gave a slight shudder of the Helix's descent into the gravitational pull of the planet Hjar 1. Win'Los and Vee'Ta sat together in prayer, knowing that the fate of their people was before them, and that the fate of their love was paramount to the events that would unfold shortly.

"Do you believe then, that we should take the Jedi straight to the Shaman, before meeting our Fathers and Mothers?" Win'Los asked.

"I do, yes," Vee'Ta replied. "I do not doubt the wisdom and heart of our Clan Fathers and Mothers, but these days are dark. The Shaman is our best chance at gaining the approval of our Fathers and Mothers. If nothing else, our people still revere and trust in the Shaman, she is our link to the Gods!"

"We shall do that then, it will be easy to trek up to Shaman Hill without news of the Jedi to reach our villages, or the Company for that matter," Win'Los replied. "The Shaman will lead us and the Jedi down to the Commons, where our people will meet. The Shaman will indeed persuade our Mothers and Fathers to allow the Jedi to help us reclaim our world and lives."

"Win'Los? Are you patronizing me?" she said, a mix of jest and genuine concern.

Win'Los gave a nervous huff of laughter, "In some ways yes, but I mean no disrespect. I just wanted to sound confident for you. You are always so confident in your convictions. As if you already know the future."

"I do not know the future, my love," she replied. "I see what can be, what should be, and what needs to be. I believe in it. How can we ever accomplish anything, if we do not believe whole-heartedly in the cause and the hopeful outcome? Were we to just accept defeat before defeat takes us, then we would have already lost. I see the Jedi helping us. I see the Company leaving this world, I see our two great peoples truly and finally becoming one people. And I see you and I taking the Vows of Union..."

"If nothing else, Vee, I do believe in you," Win'Los said as he pulled her close. "I believe in you, and that what you say and think, and what you feel and believe is true. And for that, I stand by you...until the end."

***

Vaya followed her Master and her fellow Padawans to the cargo hold. For the first time since joining the ranks of the Tae'Karadan Jedi, she felt she truly belonged and that she was well on the path to her destiny as a Jedi. She knew she had learned some very valuable lessons with her mentor, and the extra lessons she had been fortunate to acquire from Master Vos. Vaya was also pleased to have had the exercises with other Padawans of varying skill levels to test her own skills and work on those areas she was rough with. Something inside her told her that she would call upon these skills, that the mission to Hjari was paramount to her future with the Jedi.

Just focus on the mission, Vaya, she thought to herself as the Jedi filed into the cargo hold. The needs of these people are what is important here.

Going on the mission with Laedra and Koran to her was more than a test of how she stood as a potential Jedi. Vaya saw it as a larger picture, as her first step into a much larger world. She felt some pride, standing before the two Masters and her fellow Padawans. Not pride in herself, but the pride one felt when those who were capable of doing good, were about to act in the better interest of those who needed help. It made Vaya feel centered and focused, more centered than she had ever felt in all her life.

Laedra took her place beside Koran as the small group gathered, but kept a noticeable distance between them to mirror their sudden rift. She maintained a dispassionate facade, and attempted to do the same internally, but knowing Koran doubted her still stung.

Koran took in the space Laedra allowed between them and wondered when they would have time to mend the damage between them. He wondered if the Padawans could sense it. He put the thoughts from his mind, knowing that it would only do more harm to dwell upon it, and bowed to the Padawans. "Once we are planetside, which should be momentarily," he began, "we will all be conducting ourselves, within this speeder, to the leaders of Win'Los and Vee'Ta's people. Hopefully, they will be amenable to the assistance we offer them, and will allow us to help them in their plight. Should they not be, we will return here to plan the next stage of our strategy. May the Force be with us all in this. Are there any questions?"

"None, Master..." Cole said, his arms folded within the sleeves of his robe. They were finally doing it! They were here, doing what Jedi were born to do, what they were meant to do. Fight for justice, for the weak that could not fight for themselves. And he was at the forefront. Do you see me now, father? he asked in his mind while staring at the floor. You were never a hero, compared to me you will be nothing, a memory.

"No, Master," Vaya replied with a bow.

"Then we are ready," Laedra announced. But before she could continue, the two Hjarii filed in to meet the Jedi. They both bowed to the Jedi and joined the group.

"We have discussed the matter of your meeting our Clan leaders," Vee'Ta said to the Jedi. "We do apologize for our earlier discretion, but do feel every confidence that our Clans will welcome your aid. It would be most appropriate for you to first meet with our Shaman, our spiritual leader. It is customary to receive his wisdom and the Blessing of our Gods before going before a Clan Patriarch and Matriarch."

"You will find the Shaman to be most receptive, Jedi," Win'Los added. "Our leaders will still have the last say as to whether or not your help will be received, but with the Shaman's Blessing, they would no doubt have more of an inclination. Nothing of such matters can be approached, without first having asked the Gods, through the Blessing of the Shaman. It has always been so with our people."

"Yes," Vee'Ta said. "Though you will find that those who have been corrupted by the Company, have forgotten the Gods."

Laedra bowed her head. "As you wish. We would be honoured to participate in your customs."

The Hjarii bowed to the Jedi.

"You would honour us, Jedi." Vee'Ta replied.

"If your gods accept us in this matter, then it is we who are honoured," Koran Darr answered. "What will be required of us for this? We are unfamiliar with your customs, and would not wish to misstep in this."

"We will help you along the way of course," Vee'Ta replied with a smile. "Our ways are not so complicated, though they may seem strange to you."

"We can explain the meeting with our Shaman, on the way of course," Win'Los added.

"We are due to land in a matter of minutes," Laedra informed them. "That does not leave much time for an explanation."

Win'Los gave Vee'Ta a look. He knew as well as she that they had time on the way, it was not an elaborate explanation of customary rites. Perhaps the Jedi was being cross for their earlier indiscretion.

"We will bring you before the Shaman," Vee'Ta explained. "I will explain to him why you are here, and that we wish for the blessings of the Gods. The Shaman will ask for a gift to be given in honour of the Gods, by which he will meditate on the matter. If she is confident that the Gods will give their blessing, then she too will give a gift to you. The Shaman would then lead us to the Clan Council."

"It is nothing elaborate, and won't take much time," Win'Los added. "However, even with the Shaman's support, we will still have to make our case to the Clan Council, before our Patriarchs and Matriarchs. It is rare that our leaders dismiss the wisdom of the Shaman, but these are trying days. The Council will want to know why you are willing to help us, how you shall do so, and what you desire in turn."

"The Council will more than likely wish to deliberate on the matter, which may take several days. In that time, perhaps you may find more reasons to help justify your involvement, Win'Los and I will help of course. After all, it was we who came to seek your aid. We too will be before the Council. When the Council agrees, there will be a feast in your honour. The Council will give to you a gift, and you would then want to give to the Council, the gift that the Shaman had given you before," Vee'Ta finished.

"May we not make our own gift to the Council?" Laedra asked. "Would that not be more meaningful to them?"

Both Hjarii looked at each other questioningly at the Jedi's question.

"It can be so yes," Vee'Ta replied. "Your true gift is for the liberation of our people, the Council will know this. Your own gift would be most welcomed I am sure, and would no doubt have more an effect."

"But is that not a gift we can give until after we have gained the approval of the Council?" Koran asked. "It is a gift we will give willingly should the Council permit it, but should we not give them a gift before this task has been undertaken?"

"I apologise, perhaps I am not being clear," Vee'Ta explained. "Once the Council has deliberated on the matter, you would give to our leaders a gift, as they shall give one to you. It is a token of respect, a trade that goes back to our days as a bartering people. I understand that you be willing to give the gift of help if allowed to do so, I meant no confusion. So please, after our leaders deliberate, when they welcome your help, a gift is to be given to them, and you shall also a receive a gift. It is our way."

"A gift need not only be something of material, gifts come in many forms of course," Win'Los added. "Perhaps a show of your customs, be it in song, story or dance. Or whatever you deem to be of worth in your eyes and in your cultures. We know somewhat of Jedi culture. But not much. We understand that Jedi do not always have much in the ways of personal objects, so we just suggested that perhaps you give to the Council what the Shaman gives to you before. It is done often, that is why the Shaman gives a gift of blessing. Of course you may give something else, as you say, leaders would no doubt see it as more personal, and show to them you respect our ways."

"So, if I understand, the shaman will give us a gift to give to the Council," Koran said. "So, in essence, we'll be giving the Council the Shaman's gift, not our own. If they desire material goods, then we can come up with something for them. Otherwise, I have an idea of something which we might gift the Council."

"You may give your own gift to the Council, it would be well received," Vee'Ta replied.

Cole rubbed the top of his nose in between his eyes as if a headache was beginning to surface. It felt like they were going in circles.

"Padawan Slaton," Laedra interrupted, "are you feeling well?"

"Yes, Master..." Cole said with a faint smile nodding. "Can I ask something, what happens if the Shaman doesn't give her support? Is there a Plan B?" He glanced at both Win'Los and Vee'Ta in turn, hoping to shift the topic.

"If the Shaman were not to see us, we would just have to approach the Clan leaders," Vee'Ta explained. "But I am certain the Shaman will welcome and give us blessing."

Vaya moved in close to her Master and whispered, "I do believe our Hjarii friend here has seen the Shaman before. Did she not say that such endeavors did not go without seeking the wisdom and blessing of the Shaman?" Vaya asked. "These two may not have the authority of their leader, but I am certain that she had spoken with their Shaman prior to their journey to our world."

"I recall so as well, Padawan," Laedra murmured, barely moving her lips as she watched the Hjarii inspectively. "Tell me, Win'Los," she said aloud, "are your Shaman expecting us?"

Win'Los just looked at the Master Jedi. Then to Vee'Ta

Vaya received no sense of deception, through the Force or with her uncanny Lorddian skills. That is how she had deducted her belief to her mentor. As a Lorddian, she was quite skilled at reading people through their speech patterns and body languages. It was very useful, especially if you were attuned to the Force.

"The Shaman knows a great many things. It would not be beyond her to have foreseen, and to be expecting us," he replied.

Vee'Ta took his hand, and also replied to the Jedi.

"I had spoken with the Shaman prior to seeking your help. You already know that I have not the authority of my leaders, though I believe to have the authority of my people, in heart and spirit at least. As I had explained, many things are not partaken without first speaking to the Shaman and receiving the Blessing. She knows I was off to find the Jedi, and she is expecting us. Please, do not view this as something I was keeping as a secret. It is not so. The Shaman is our link to the Gods, it is most sacred. I am sure your people have their beliefs, it is something we take for granted sometimes, unfortunately..."

"We do not take such beliefs lightly, either," Laedra assured her. "However, if the Shaman knows we are coming, why are we still required to seek approval before proceeding with our efforts to liberate your planet?"

"I sought out the Shaman before seeking the Jedi. She gave me the Blessing to come find you and bring you here, and here you are. But we must go before the Shaman for the task you have come here for. She will get a sense of what is to come, to look into your souls, and ask the Gods for their guidance and blessing," Vee'Ta explained. "It is not the Shaman's approval, it is the Shaman gaining the Gods' blessing on our behalf, so that your efforts will have the grace of the Gods."

Laedra smiled politely. "Then that is what we shall do the moment we land." She furtively winked at Vaya to reassure the girl, then nodded to the Hjari representatives. "Is there anything more we should know before we venture into these peace negotiations?"

"I don't believe so no," Win'Los said as he looked to Vee'Ta with a look as if to say, There isn't, is there?

Vaya felt the Jedi had their work cut out for them, for sure. And not just on the part of actually bringing peace and salvation to the lives of these people. But still, she felt she was ready for the challenges, and was looking forward to participating in the culture of the Hjarii people.

Jedi Master Koran Darr bowed to both of the Hjari, and then indicated the speeder. "I believe that there is nothing more we can gain from conversation here," he said. "Let's get in the speeder and we can meet with the Shaman. I don't believe we want to keep her waiting any longer than we already have." As if to punctuate his words, a rumble went through the ship as it touched down on the planet's surface.

Vaya hopped in and was followed by the two Hjarii.

Laedra, still avoiding Koran's gaze, stepped past her fellow Jedi Master and moved to occupy one of the vacant forward seats.

Zari glanced up at Cole with a smile, then started forward to follow Vaya and the Hjarii into the back of the speeder. Being the smallest among them, she climbed all the way into the back.

Cole caught the smile from Zari, even a small gesture like that got his heart racing. It took him a few moments to control his breathing before he stepped up following the other Padawans, taking one of the empty seats, strapping himself in. It was strange that the Shaman could see into the future. Was she Force sensitive? or something else entirely. We'll find out sooner or later...

Once the others were settled, Koran climbed into the controller's seat and started the speeder's powerplant. After a moment, the indicators flashed green. Koran glanced to his side to where Laedra sat, and using a small amount of the Force, sent a caress over the top of her hand. He gave her a brief, apologetic smile, then turned his attention back to the mission at hand. With a silent command sent to the ship, the bay doors opened and the speeder raced out and on its way to the shaman.

---

"Gift Giving, Part 2"
By: Koran Darr
Laedra Vorrel
Cole Slaton
Vaya Bek
Zari Zathmir
Win'Los
Vee'Ta

Location: Surface of Hjar 1
Date: Vadris 17, 4 ABY

***

The landscape was dotted with thickets and rolling hills as the speeder zoomed along the path that Vee'Ta had directed. It was early morning on the small lunar world that revolved around the large gas giant of Hjar. The sky was nearly cloudless and showed the brilliant violet-blue hue of the alien sky.

Vaya was taken by its natural beauty. She had seen a few worlds in her time, and most were more or less developed over the generations with technologically advanced constructs. She appreciated the natural beauty that Tae'Karada offered, but she had never seen such a world with open wilderness. High above their speeder she gazed upon the looming gas giant of Hjar; an object that dominated most of the sky and lent the violet hue to the world's sky. Hjar looked to be a cloudy mass of swirls comprised of mottled swashes in hues of blues and violets that faded into the bluish sky of the small lunar word, as if painted there. Far to the other side of the sky a star burned bright, a bright blue-white star.

The beauty of the world's wilderness soon faded though, as it gave way to the ravages of strip mining. The speeder zoomed up a hill and back down, leaving the wooded areas behind, and revealed a scarred landscape of crater-like pits and barren paths. At one point, Vaya looked down out of the speeder, and she could not see the ground below. There was only darkness as the pit stretched fathomlessly down like a giant maw that even stretched out for kilometers. All about were the signs of intense and thorough mining, large section of land all but forgotten as the precious resources were consumed to leave the land with no more interest or value.

Vaya remembered from her study of the world, that the moon world, Hjar 1, or Hjari as the Hjarii spoke of it, was rich in many minerals. The most valuable being a type of crystal that was not to unlike those mined across the galaxy and used as energy conductors for many things such as large energy weapons, space craft hyperdrives, shield generators and power generators. She knew that the crystals were forged over a millennium under precise circumstances which made the crystals quite valuable. Vaya could not see destroying the landscape of a world for the attainment of such materialistic values, let alone to enslave a world's population to mine the materials.

Vaya's thoughts drifted as the speeder raced on, thinking about the mission ahead and the plight of the Hjarii people. Her hand rested along the side of her hip as she felt her lightsaber. She knew lightsabers were constructed with the use of crystals and that the right size Hjarii crystal could be used for a lightsaber. She wondered where the crystal in her own lightsaber came from, if it had once rested on such a world and had been mined from a similar people...

Win'Los pointed up ahead where there was another thicket of woods atop a hill.

"There," he said. "The Shaman resides there within those woods.

"We can stop the speeder at the edge of the woods," Vee'Ta said. "The Shaman is a short walk into the trees."

"I would imagine this was once a beauty to behold... now look at it..." Cole whispered to no one in particular with an element of disgust. He had thought it only as a small area of the moon, but seeing it on such a scale, and at first hand, he could see the Hjarii's problem. And it was a large one. How two Jedi, and three Padawans, were going to solve this he did not know. What he did know was they would do their best to help, whatever that meant.

At a spot Win'Los indicated, Koran turned the speeder and began decelerating. After a few moments, the speeder glided to a smooth stop at the edge of the woods. Sensing they would be here for some time, Koran shut down the speeder's engine and released the locks holding the doors and canopy closed..

"Has it always been like this?" Laedra asked the Hjarii as the small group exited the speeder. "There doesn't seem to be much left."

"No, not always," Vee'Ta replied sadly. "The Company came and has done this to our world for several generations. They bring in many devices, that chew and eat up the land."

"They get everything they can from one area, and move on to another," Win'Los added in disgust. "I imagine we will be treated the same, as soon as we are all used up."

"Our people work night and day, there is always a shift working."

"Provided we are allowed to continue our mission here," Koran said as he looked out across the land, "that will be changing soon enough."

"Hopefully so," Vee'Ta said as she walked forward. "These lands here," she said as she waved a hand about the woods they were walking through. "Are one of a few left. Reserved for our people. There are a few fields spared for the growing of some crops. The few animals we have left, are meager herds that dwindle with every season."

"Yes, we are allowed to have some hunting grounds, but there is little to hunt these days," Win'Los added. "Our herds have always been used for milking, now we butcher a few now and then to add to our tables. Mostly we eat what we can manage to sow from the earth. It is barely enough to get by on. Just enough to keep us working..."

"There is the Shaman's hut," Vee'Ta pointed out.

Vaya saw up ahead a small construct of wood, thatch and mud-brick. And it didn't look like much. A light smoke puffed from the roof with a smell of herbs.

As the group neared the hut, a soft chanting could be heard from within. Vaya thought it had a nice melody to it, though she didn't understand any of what she could hear. To her, it sounded familiar to the language the Hjarii used, but different. She deducted it was probably a sacred dialect.

All around the hut were stakes driven into the ground. From them flittered feathers and beads, and each had strange carvings upon them. As they came upon the hut, Vee'Ta motioned a halt to everyone.

"I shall approach the Shaman and let her know that we have come to seek her aid."

Koran bowed to Vee'Ta and glanced around at the others, then off through the trees. There was a strong feeling of life here, but the sense of oppression was palpable. To his senses, it was painfully obvious that the life force of the area was being killed off. He could only hope the leaders would grant them the opportunity to do what they could, for the Hjari and their world.

"What do you think?" Laedra asked Koran softly. "Are we worthy of the Shaman's blessing?"

"I believe that we are," Koran said with a slight smile as he glanced at her. "Though, in the end it will be up to the Shaman herself. That she gave them her blessing to seek us out in the first place, though, is a very good sign in our favour. I don't know yet what we can do to help them here, but they definitely need someone to step in on their behalf. Once we have first tested the strength and intentions of the Company, I will know more, but I think perhaps after our initial overtures, perhaps the New Republic may have an interest here."

"At which point," Laedra reminded him, "our task will be completed. Is the Order quite ready yet to openly declare themselves comrades of the New Republic? Our last joint endeavour was hardly a promising start..."

"No," Koran said with a slight frown, "it wasn't. If the New Republic is willing to step in, I believe they will be able to do a better job than we, despite our abilities. We will be able to pave the way for them though. I believe that it might not be a bad idea, if the New Republic takes over negotiations here, to have a Jedi representative on hand to observe."

Laedra smiled. "You, I gather?"

"Perhaps," Koran said. "Though, I think it might be better to have more than a single opinion on the matter." He smiled to her. "Though, we will have to see how things go."

She nodded in acknowledgement. "Yes...we shall."

Vee'Ta and Win'Los came out of the hut and rejoined the Jedi.

"The Shaman is ready to see you," Vee'Ta told them.

"We shall enter with you, of course," Win'Los added. "A gift must be presented to the Shaman, she will receive it and talk to you about why you are here. She will then meditate on the matter, and then we will leave her for a time, and wait for her blessing back outside. With her blessing, she will give to you a gift as well, and then lead us to the village to go before the Clan leaders."

"Seems easy enough..." Cole joked with a faint smile looking around the hut. His eyes were moving from one stake to another, looking at the various beads and skulls. He stepped up to one such stake, tracing his finger over the carving in the wood. Interesting....

"Enjoying the adornments, Padawan?" Laedra asked from beside Cole. "Considering what most of you have experienced, this will likely be one of the most exotic places you've visited to this point."

Cole nodded, his eyes still fixed on the face carved into the wood. "It's hard to believe you can get so much detail from one piece of wood..." he said, allowing his finger to run down over the face's nose. It wasn't hard to make out what it was supposed to be. An animal of some kind, a predator by its large teeth, but it was the eyes that had caught Cole's attention. "... so life like..." he whispered to be glancing at Laedra embarrassed, though he couldn't say why.

"This is a beautiful moon, or was once... I can understand how something like this can happen, before I became a Padawan money was all that mattered, it kept you alive on the streets. But this..." He looked around, still able to picture the scale of what was happening here. "How could they let their home become such a... graveyard..." It was the best word he could find to describe what he felt through the Force, the sadness, the pain, the sorrow and anger. That was the most dominant, he could feel it everywhere.

"Sometimes, Padawan, you cannot anticipate the consequences before it is too late," Laedra explained.

"Come, Jedi," Win'Los beckoned. "The Shaman awaits."

Laedra bowed her head at the Hjarii, and as they started forward she murmured, "Keep your weapons out of sight, Padawans. It would not be courteous."

Zari fell in line first behind Laedra, deftly easing her cloak in front of where her lightsaber hung on her belt. She smiled up at her master, even though she knew Laedra was not looking. As much as she liked Master Jae Dyn, she was very happy to be Master Laedra's student while on this mission. Their differences in style, both in teaching and in interaction, helped Zari to learn even more. She wondered why the Jedi didn't do such things more frequently.

Vaya followed after Zari and Laedra, with Koran, Cole and Win'Los in tow. They entered into the Shaman's hut and followed Vee'Ta's lead by kneeling down upon the ground.

Vaya took in the interior, as she knelt down upon a mat made of woven grass. The hut was quite spacious, she thought, compared to how small it seemed from the outside. The ceiling domed upward, where there was an opening, directly above from a stone lined fire pit. All around the hut were tables and shelving with numerous herbal items and the scents of dozens of alien aromas.

The Shaman sat crossed leg before the Jedi, a Hjarii woman in her later years. Her hair was a mixture of grey hues with streaks of white, intricately braided and fashioned upon her head in a style unlike any other Vaya had ever seen. She wore a plain tunic of dark green with a modest accessory of feathers, beads and painted symbols. She had upon her lap a staff made of wood, its head held a pink colored crystal, adorned with feathers and beads upon strands of leather.

"Tyahoma, kommiry Hjarii ty'nlassto Jeedai?" the Shaman spoke with a gruff voice as she the threw into the fire pit a handful of ingredients which brought forth sparks, smoke and tongues of fire.

Vee'Ta translated for the Jedi, "The Shaman asks why it is that the Jedi have returned to the Hjarii people."

Cole frowned in confusion, leaning slightly toward his master whispering, "I thought the Shaman knew we were coming, that she gave her blessing for Vee'Ta, and Win'Los, to approach us for help... Why would she ask why we've returned?"

Koran gave a nod that he had heard Cole's question, but with the focus of the Shaman on him, he could not take the time to answer it. The same question was in his mind, and it would be something to look into at a later time. "We have come to offer our assistance in a matter of dire importance to the Hjarii," he said in a resonant voice. "We have come at the request of these representatives of your people to aid in your survival that threatens your very existence. We come, as always, to offer our service to you."

The Shaman shook her head and spoke again, with Vee'Ta translating.

"The Shaman says that she knows this, but again asks, why," she said with emphasis.

"Because it is part of our responsibility as Jedi," Laedra answered respectfully. "The moment we neared this planet, it was obvious its balance in the Force had been upset. It is our duty to ensure that balance is restored as much as it can be."

"For us, there is no why," Koran continued. "There is only life as it is, and our part of life is to serve those who need a light in the darkness. With the Force, one does not ask why. We are here because the Force has guided us here."

The Shaman appeared to consider the words of the Jedi, as she sat in silence and looked to each of the Jedi and their Hjarii guides.

"Dowmwata nyevark'na, aysa jahaaadi tooozwa nar Jeedai," the Shaman said with a warm smile.

"The Shaman says that indeed the Jedi are wise and noble as the tales of old have said," Vee'Ta explained to the Jedi.

"Dar Hjarra nar aysa dowmwata, meinet vor Joohdoo," the Shaman said as she waved her staff about over her head.

"The Shaman says that it is important to open our souls to the Gods and beseech them for guidance and their Blessing," Vee'Ta explained again.

The Shaman stood and walked around and behind the Jedi. She chanted and waved her staff about. One by one she touched each of the Jedi, barely touching the tops of their heads with the feathers upon her staff. She returned in front of them, sprinkling some herbs into the fire which crackled and smoked.

Vaya smelled sweetness from the flames, as she continued to pay attention to the ceremony.

The Shaman then pulled from a pouch under her tunic, what appeared to be a stick of wax.

"Dar Hjarra, dowmwata vor Joohdoo...dowmata Joohdoo Jeedai," she chanted.

"The Shaman asks the Gods to look into our souls and give their Blessing," Vee'Ta explained. "The Shaman will mark our foreheads with the colored wax, it will not hurt and it shall be washed off."

The Shaman came first to Vee'Ta and chanted again, marking her forehead from between the eyes and to the left, over the eye. And then again, on the opposite side. She then came to Laedra, and followed on down the line, chanting and marking their heads.

Laedra felt the woman's eldritch power flowing through her fingertips and leaving a trail over her painted flesh. She glanced up at the elder woman without displaying any show of surprise and observed the ritual with humility.

At last the Shaman arrived at Cole standing in front of him. He knew she was old, he could feel it, but seeing her up close her skin seemed to hang from her bones, but not in an ugly way; she still held onto her youthful attractive appearance. Her eyes held him as her hand came to his forehead while her lips moved, speaking the alien language. His eyes twitched slightly as her finger made the same pattern as those previous.

Cole's hand clenched at his side, holding onto the material of his robe as the wax burned. It wasn't painful it was more of a burning itch, like the bite from a fire-ant. He tried to keep his discomfort from the Shaman, and his companions. He hoped he was hiding it well.

After having marked the Jedi, Vee'Ta and Win'Los, the Shaman walked back to where she had been sitting before, continuing her chant to the Hjarii gods.

Though Vaya did not believe in a higher being, in the sense that most religions did, she found it rather intriguing, and she felt honoured to be a part of such a tradition. She had never believed in such things, it had never occurred to her. But when she discovered and began to learn about the Force, it was a religion of sorts to her. A way of life, something greater than her self, something that focused and guided her destiny.

"Jeedai, mahari oompaloo tzarnava darndai," the Shaman said.

"The Shaman requests an offering to the Gods, so that she may meditate and speak one-on-one with them," Vee'Ta explained.

Koran gave Vee'Ta a pointed look, since the two Hjarii had been insisting all along they had the gift the Jedi were to give, though had given no details regarding.

Laedra, not consulting Koran, the senior member of the mission, addressed the Shaman. "We have nothing of value, honoured one. Nothing but knowledge that we may share with you, if you will have it."

The Shaman replied, as Vee'Ta translated, "Offerings come in many forms. Those with wisdom are not wise less they share."

Win'Los procured a small package from his small bag. He unwrapped the object from its cloth covering and laid it on the ground before the Shaman.

"Allow the Jedi to share their wisdom as an offering to the Gods," he said in Hjarii, by which Vee'Ta translated for the Jedi. "I also offer this candle to you, Wise Shaman, for the Blessing of our Gods, on behalf of our journey to bring the Jedi here. May it be lit to lift the shadows that cloud our future, and burn with the hope of our peoples' deliverance."

The Shaman took the candle, bowed and turned to the Jedi to hear out the wisdom they wished to share.

Laedra reached inside her robe, pulling a mini holoprojector free of her inner pocket. She set it down between herself and the elder woman before activating the datastream of images she'd collected. With a serene smile, Laedra asked, "Shall I teach you of the Ancients, honoured one? Of their unique practices and connection to the Force?"

"Oohs dawmwatta shumpka Jeedai..." the Shaman said with great interest as she sat to see what Laedra offered.

Interpreting the old woman's words through her facial expression, Laedra smiled at her apparent eagerness. Gesturing to the holoimage of the Temple levitating before them, Laedra described their home to the Shaman in detail, from the forest surrounding them to the wondrous falls to even the colour of stone that composed the structure. With another slight hand movement that delivered a small push of the Force, she called up the next image. From there, Laedra explained their encounter with Tarkin's dark soldiers, their discovery of the Ancient Force-spirits inhabiting their Temple, and their ultimate victory.

"Even now, they are sometimes felt watching over all those in the Temple," Laedra finished. "They offered us a gift of insight and power many of us could not have achieved without their assistance. Still...I do believe they allowed us to keep a part of that gift with us even today. It is simply up to each individually to tap into that knowledge, but only through much study and meditation, I believe." She smiled nostalgically upon recollection of how the Ancients' touch had aided her in rediscovering the path to Light. One last, gentle hand gesture and the image of the Ancients' altar room vanished. "So...there it is," Laedra whispered. "Knowledge bestowed upon us, now offered to you. I hope this pleases you."

Vee'Ta had translated to the Shaman, who in turn expressed her pleasure in what the Jedi had to share. She then instructed for the group to leave the hut so that she could meditate on the issue, and that she would call for the Jedi when she was done.

Koran looked around at the others, and then turned to the Shaman. He bowed with respect, then turned and led the way out of the small hut.

Cole followed his master out of the hut after bowing to the Shaman. That was easier than I thought... He glanced around once outside the hut, stepping away from the entrance, looking at the forest. With the Force he could sense the animals, they were everywhere, he could feel them, their emotions.

Vaya followed out behind Laedra, with the two Hjarii behind her. Though she made no comment, she had enjoyed Laedra's sharing of the Ancients. Her mentor had spoken of them before to some degree, and it had opened up a desire for Vaya to learn more.

She felt a connection in the Force with the Shaman's hut, and she wondered if the Shaman perhaps had some form of Force attunement. With the Force being created and bound by all living things, she felt truly sad for the Hjarii and their world. Vaya felt there was a great unbalance about them all.

---

"Gift Giving, Part 3"
By: Koran Darr
Laedra Vorrel
Cole Slaton
Vaya Bek
Zari Zathmir
Win'Los
Vee'Ta

Location: Surface of Hjar 1
Date: Vadris 17, 4 ABY

***

Once they were outside, Koran turned to Laedra and gave her a slight smile. "Nicely done in there," he said.

"You make it sound like I was implementing a strategy," she answered quietly. "It was a genuine gift, Koran."

"I did not intend for it to sound that way," Koran said. "I was merely expressing my appreciation of your actions and words in there. Your choice of a gift was perfect, and I cannot think of any greater wisdom to share than that of the Ancients."

Laedra sighed. "I only hope the Shaman considered it a worthy offering. It is all we have, Koran."

"I've always believed that the greatest gift anyone could give another is the gift of wisdom," Koran said with a warm smile. "And, your decision to give it to the Shaman also shows a great depth of wisdom. Things here may go very badly when we have to deal with the Company. I have every confidence that the Ancients will help guide the Hjarii through the times after we have gone home. I know that we are now equals within the Order, Laedra, but as one who taught you for a brief time and as one who cares deeply for you, I am honoured to have been able to share these moments, this progress, here with you today."

"So, you no longer believe I'm on the brink of turning rogue?" she asked with no hint of mockery or bitterness. "I have impressed you enough during our meeting with the Shaman that you again trust me?"

"Of course," Koran said. "What you were saying before, there was a hint of rebellion in it." He looked around and then back at her. "And I feel that here, the desire to help these people and this world, no matter the cost. I can only hope that our mission here is approved, so that we may step in and help as we are able. And, I can't think of anyone whose side I'd rather be at through this than yours."

Cole couldn't help but smile as he watched the two masters. They were almost acting like they were married. They're not married are they? He had to think about it for a moment before shaking his head. His smile didn't leave though. They should definitely get married, or at the very least get rid of all the built up tension between them... He sniggered slightly, turning away, hoping they didn't catch him.

"Thank you, Koran," Laedra answered softly. "I think, now that it is behind us, we can move on with this mission. Our personal matters should not have gotten in the way to begin with." She smiled tautly. "Forgive me, Koran."

"As long as you'll forgive me," Koran replied. His love was displayed in his eyes for only her to see, and it was clear there that she had already been forgiven, had it even been necessary.

Laedra nodded. "Agreed." And she downplayed the severity of her reply by giving Koran a hint of a smile. "For now, we should seek out Win'Los and Vee'Ta. I wonder how long the Shaman and Council will deliberate for."

Koran glanced around for their Hjarii guides. "If anyone would know, they would be the ones." They spotted the two, and quickly made their way over. Koran bowed. "We feel the meeting with the Shaman went well. Though we were wondering how long the deliberation would take from this point."

"It is hard to say," Win'Los replied. "Please, be patient. The Shaman will meditate, connect with the Gods. When the Gods give their answer, the Shaman will let us know."

"Come, Jedi. There is food and drink this way," Vee'Ta urged. "We can wait for the Shaman over here, and discuss more of what is to come if you like?"

"That will be perfect," Koran said as he followed after. He then smiled at Laedra. "If there is time, I believe we have some Padawans who could use a formal lesson. A mission isn't a break from training."

Laedra concealed an almost playfully wicked smile with a nod. "I agree," she concurred, loud enough for their Padawans to hear. "Some intensive, long training. They will just have to save the sightseeing for another time."

Cole nodded. He knew he needed to train, and train hard, before Koran saw him not as a Padawan but as a Jedi Knight. He wanted his master to be proud of him. His abilities with the Force had improved greatly over the last few months, his skills with the saber were equally improving if not more so. "I am always willing to learn, Masters..."

At the announcement, Zari grinned happily. She loved the opportunity to train and to learn new things. She stepped over nearer her master, eagerly looking forward to what was to come.

Vaya took her place by Laedra and awaited the Jedi's instructions. She figured it may be sometime yet before the Shaman came to any conclusion. She was ready for whatever exercises were required, she thought it would be a good way to spend their lull. She also looked forward to working with Zari and Cole.

"Very eager," Laedra commented approvingly. "I suggest, Padawans, we eat first, then train. We must show gratitude by accepting our friends' hospitality." She smiled at Win'Los and Vee'Ta, nodding for them to proceed.

"Shall I get our provisions from the ship, Master?" Zari asked. The ship was a good ways away, but the trek there would be good exercise, she thought.

"Not unless you three are eager to escape our company," Laedra said, smiling faintly at them.

Zari grinned at Laedra. "Of course not, Master," she said.

"Then, as our guides have indicated," Laedra reminded the young Padawans, "there is plenty of food if we would only follow them."

The Jedi followed the Hjarii along a small and short path. Vee'Ta led them to a simple table next to a pit fire.

"The Shaman always has a hot stew on, and fresh bread, for those who are waiting for her wisdom," Win'Los said.

"Shaman says, 'One's soul is weak if one's stomach is empty!'" Vee'Ta joked. "It is simple food, but tastes very good. Please, help yourselves," she said as she pointed to the bowls upon the table.

Vaya wasn't very hungry, but the smell from the kettle was very pleasing. She waited for the Jedi to be the first, not to appear greedy or to be out of line. She wasn't hungry, but she would have a small portion to not be disrespectful.

"We thank you," Laedra said, bowing to their guides. "This is all perfect. I hope we were as hospitable as you have been thus far in our journey."

"You are most welcome," Vee'Ta replied with a smile. "You were very hospitable, yes."

"Your Shaman seems very wise, Vee'Ta," Vaya piped up after taking the last of her meager portion. "She is no doubt very knowledgeable. Are your Shamans chosen somehow?"

"Chosen, yes," Vee'Ta replied. "Once every generation the Shaman chooses and teaches the one who will have their wisdom and carry on the ways of the Shaman. A Shaman searches for many years for the one who might become Shaman. The Shaman will pray to the Gods and look into the souls of those that might be worthy. It takes a very special person, and they then must be taught for many, many years. Shamans pray, heal, foresee, and advise our leaders. There is much for a Shaman to learn, there is much for a Shaman to do for our people."

"Has there ever been a time when a Shaman wasn't found in time," Zari asked as she picked at the food on her plate. "How long before she finds the one who will follow her and begins training them? And, have there ever been more than one worthy person at a time?" At a look from Laedra, she decided to leave off with the last question, knowing that if she didn't, neither Win'Los nor Vee'Ta would get a chance to reply.

"Only Shaman knows how long it will be before they find the one who would be chosen," Vee'Ta answered with a smile. "Sometimes a chosen one is found very early and spends their entire life training and learning. Sometimes the chosen may be older, and never to my knowledge has there not ever been a Shaman."

"Long ago there were many Shaman and their students, one for every village," Win'Los added. "If a village lost a Shaman without a chosen, another Shaman would take over until that Shaman could find and train a new one," he smiled. "Since the time of the Company," he continued sadly. "Our people have dwindled, smaller villages joined together. Fewer Shaman were to be found. Over the past few generations, our two Clans have been reduced to but five villages, and but one Shaman. And Shaman has said for years, the time has not yet come for a chosen."

"And Shaman is very, very old..." Vee'Ta said.

"So...you will lose the only religious leader your people have?" Laedra asked. "Can the Shaman not foresee who the next successor will be and when he or she shall arrive?"

"Only Shaman can say or know," Vee'Ta said. "I am sure that the Shaman shall have a successor when she knows it is the time. But if she were to pass, I do not know. It may well be she has chosen someone and has been working with some, but not to my knowledge. Much of what we know and teach the next generation is handed down in tales...in song and story, so I would hope so."

"With the presence of the Company," Koran said, "the unfortunate could happen at any time, and patience may lead to ruin. Hopefully we can change that however. Hopefully we can do what is needed to ensure the survival of your people before it is too late."

"We know well these things, Master Jedi," Win'Los said. "We have lived and breathed it all our lives."

Vee'Ta took his hand, "Hopefully it can be changed, I am confident of the wisdom and skill of the Jedi, and I am certain the Shaman will as well. I cannot believe that the Gods would allow you to come here at this time to be turned away...to not be able to help our people."

Win'Los shook Vee'Ta's hand from his and turned away. Turning and glaring at the Jedi he said, "Perhaps so. Or perhaps the Gods have brought them here to witness the end of our people. For our failure and idiocy in allowing the Company to subjugate us and defile our world."

"Win'Los..." Vee'Ta said with some shock.

"I am sorry, please forgive me," he said as he walked off. "I just need to be alone for now, to clear my mind."

Laedra and Koran exchanged an unreadable look; their true thoughts were exchanged mentally. Turning her attention to Vee'Ta, Laedra asked, "Are we mistaken in believing Win'Los resents our intervention?"

"Win'Los' grandfather is one of our own people who work with the Company, he is Camp Leader. They direct the workers. Win'Los' father died in the mines, he blames his grandfather," Vee'Ta explained sadly. "Win'Los and I are of different Clans, we have known each other all our lives. My Clan makes up most of the workers, and Win'Los' Clan are those who help to manage our people for the Company. Most of them are not bad people, Jedi...but some...some have lost sight. He is opposed to his grandfather's working for the Company. I know Win'Los well, he is skeptical of how you will be able to help. But he trusts me. You must understand, his grandfather...he is not a bad man, he does what he thinks he must to protect his family and protect those under his charge. Win'Los is just angry and confused...many of us are. We have been alone for so many generations...many of us have lost hope all together."

"Then it is my hope," Koran said, "that the decisions to allow us to help your people come before the rest have lost hope as well. We want to help you, but if we are successful, I cannot say how a victory would affect a broken people. And, I guess I am partly intrigued that with the dire state of affairs here, that the deliberation takes as long as it does."

Vee'Ta had no reply for the Jedi master. She knew they wanted to help, and she knew how badly her people needed it. She wished it was as easy as just bringing them before the Clan leaders, but the Shaman had said it was important for them to come before her first. She hoped the Shaman would be ready very soon.

"I will go talk to Win'Los and see if I can calm him. You Jedi do...what Jedi do at such a time," she said as she walked off to find Win'Los.

Cole had mostly passed the time playing with his food eating only a few pieces here or there, not paying particular attention to what was in front of him. He watched as Vee'Ta left to find Win'Los and calm him, leaving the Jedi mostly to themselves. He leaned back away from the table after pushing the plate to the side indicating he was finished.

Zari continued to eat her food happily as she glanced around at the forest and at her companions. "It's very nice right here," she said. "I hope we can help them, Master. This planet is too beautiful to lose the way the Company is treating it." She sighed softly and looked up at the leaves above them. "It reminds me of home."

Laedra smiled knowingly at the girl, and after glancing at Cole's discarded meal, she guessed, "You are all very eager to explore these forests, aren't you?"

Zari grinned. "It is a very enticing thought," she said. "But, I can wait until our mission here is completed."

"That won't be necessary," Laedra assured them. "It would be advantageous for you to know your surroundings. That would omit any element of surprise."

"Perhaps we should venture together," Vaya offered. "The Shaman may come for us at anytime."

"And that is why we shall remain here - to retrieve you when the Shaman does return," Laedra responded. "I believe it is far more beneficial if you explore on your own. This will force you to trust your own instincts, rather than mine or Koran's."

Vaya nodded.

"I spotted some ruins on our way here..." he looked off in the direction they lay. "It's not far, only a kilometer, it seemed like a good place." Cole didn't elaborate on what he wanted to do there, rising up and as he did he picked up a small fruit, almost like a grape, and tossed it into his mouth, feeling the refreshing juices bursting out as he crushed it in between his teeth.

"I would like to see the ruins," Vaya said, thinking it would be a worthwhile experience to visit them. She figured she could scout out the areas around the ruins, and perhaps take some time to meditate nearby while they all awaited the Shaman.

Cole nodded, both to the master Jedi and to Vaya, before turning, heading towards the forest, and the ruins. It wasn't particularly far but with the dense forest it may take a while longer since it wouldn't be a direct route. As he walked through the forest he reached out with his mind, focusing in on the Force. It was all around him. Piercing the trees, the animals, the very ground but it also bound everything together. It was a wondrous feeling.

Zari glanced at the Masters and Vaya, then after Cole who had already sped off ahead of them. She and Vaya exchanged a look, then followed after Cole. Her bare feet made barely a whisper as they hurried through the forest. She looked up at Vaya and smiled. "I hope the Masters do this more often. I know, with the tragedy here, it's not something that should be fun. But I am really happy here. It's almost like home, and we're getting to meet new people. I really feel like a Jedi...at least, how I think Jedi are supposed to feel."

Vaya smiled and kept up the pace alongside Zari, "I know what you mean. I have been at the Temple but a short time, and though I have been to several worlds, Hjari is quite intriguing, though it is sad. It is most fortunate for us to be here for this mission, to actually act in the capacity of a Jedi and do some good for these people."

The ruins were in a large clearing with the trees of the forest ending abruptly, though there was evidence of the forest beginning to intrude on the sacred ground. Cole stood on the remains of a stone pillar looking out across the clearing. The rocks were a dark grey with green moss covering most of them. Creeping vines and plants ran up their sides, clear evidence that the forest was reclaiming their territory. "Beautiful..." he whispered to himself.

It was a place of calm, though there seemed to be an undertone which he couldn't put his finger on. The animals seemed to stay away from the clearing and those that ventured within acting strangely, almost nervous of their surroundings, apprehensive almost as if they were expecting something to happen. Of course it could all be the young Padawan's imagination.

Vaya took in the surroundings. The ruins were intriguing, made of stone pillars and rocks that were strewn about from generations of decay and lack of up keep. She ran her hand over the barely existent glyphs and pondered their meaning to the alien people. It seemed to Vaya as a mirror of their current plight. Once standing proud and prosperous, now in ruin and threatened to become obliterated over time.

As she explored the area, her thoughts wandered about their mission and the knowledge they had so far. She was certain that the Hjarii had a future, if only the Jedi would be allowed to help. She agreed with Koran, that the Hjarii way only served to hinder the Jedi's ability to help. But as Jedi, they did have to respect the Hjarii way...it was their culture, their lives and their future. If they were to intercede and ignore due process, would they be any better than the company? Or were they making a grave mistake of not driving forward and by-passing the cultural protocol, she wondered. Vaya began to understand even more the weight and responsibility upon the Jedi as protectors of peace and guardians of life and justice. Decisions were not callously made, yet indecisiveness could cost so much. Vaya only hoped their current understanding of the Hjarii plight and their customs, and with the Jedi's knowledge of the Force, could shed light and defeat the shadow upon the Hjarii people's future.

Vaya had a strong feeling that some clues would be found in the Hjarii way of recording their history and their bartering ways. If such a deal had ever been made between the Clan leaders and those of the Company, it may well be found there. At least that, she thought, would give legitimacy to the Hjarii shrugging the yoke of the Company. Though she figured that the Company would not relent so easily. She wondered after what kind of opposition they might face from the company that held power over the lives of the Hjarii. Did they have armed forces to bear upon the Hjarii and the Jedi? Would they retaliate against the Hjarii just for their having been upon the world to mettle in their affairs?

Vaya heard a rustling up ahead as she snapped back into focus. She stood still and reached with the Force, as she did so a small creature hopped out from a small thicket of brush. Vaya smiled at its cuteness and odd look. It was a mammal, very similar to the rabbit like creatures she saw hopping about the grounds of the Jedi Temple on Tae'Karada. The Hjarii breed however, had a small set of horns upon its furry little head, jutting out between two long floppy ears. The horns were more like antlers she thought, spreading out like a budding tree. The creature had white fur and pink eyes, a cute little pink nose that tested the air for food or danger. Vaya knelt down slowly and snickered in an attempt to draw the creature towards her. She used the Force to give a calming sense, and the creature slowly hopped up to her.

The little fur ball sniffed at her fingers and made a silly noise, a mixture of a purr and a swine's grunt. She reached out to stroke the back of the creature, and it allowed her to do so. Until, that is, another noise scared the creature off. As it scampered off, she noticed Win'Los.

"A Jak'abbit," he said with wondrous eyes. "A very lucky omen, Jedi. Many of our people believe they are spirits, and not true creatures. We never hunt them, and it has always been thought to be a sign of fortune when one sees a Jak'abbit, let alone for one to allow itself to be touched."

"Really?" she asked in wonder. "A...Jak'abbit. Perhaps then, your Gods send us good fortune and we shall be allowed to proceed with the liberation of your people?" she asked more as a rhetorical question than to be expecting an answer.

"Tell me, Jedi," Win'Los asked. "What was in your heart that made a Jak'abbit come to you?"

"I don't believe I made anything come to me," she replied. "However, I was just pondering our role here, and the hopes that we would be allowed to continue forward and aid your people. And I am not exactly a Jedi, Win'Los," she corrected. "I am a Padawan, a learner of the ways of the Force."

"Yes, the Force..." he said. "This Force, is what you Jedi believe in? Where you gain your knowledge and abilities?"

"It is," she replied. "It is a powerful energy that is created by all life. To those who have the dedication to seek wisdom and to help others selflessly, the Force offers us many skills and lessons in knowledge, by which we learn wisdom. That is what I seek, as a Padawan learner...to become a Jedi, like Laedra and Koran."

"We have been told..." Win'Los started before he was interrupted.

"There you are!" Vee'Ta said as she rounded the corner. "I've been looking for you."

"I am fine, just needed to clear my mind. I hope I have not offended the Jedi."

"I believe you have, but it is of no consequence. Come, now let us rejoin the others, the Shaman may come for us at any time," she said to Win'Los.

The two walked off, leaving Vaya to herself. Vaya sensed that the two were involved, she figured it was obvious to the others as well, not that it was their concern or business. She found relationships to be one of life's complications. She felt sorry for the pair, who obviously were deeply in love, but their two peoples, who were in essence the same people, were in such a horrid situation.

She continued to scout the area, and await for Laedra and Koran to fetch her and the others when the Shaman called for them. She hoped it would be soon.

---

"Parental Responsibilities"
By: Yelara Neerou
Meer'esh [NPC+]
Liam Zaneth
Va'Lesh Zaneth

Location: Yelara's Apartment, New Plouton
Date: Vadris 17, 4 ABY

***

"Why didn't you tell me the Zacacea Blossom was yours?" Yelara asked as she cradled her second mug of coffee in both hands.

Meer'esh, occupying the space next to Yelara's and turned in towards her so that their knees touched, smiled apologetically into his mug. "I did not think it was of a concern," he answered.

Yelara tilted her head inquisitively as she asked, "So if you own the place...why in the hells are you so worried about being late all the time?"

Meer'esh grinned and Yelara laughed at the sheer joy of watching him smile. "I am...stuck on my old ways," he answered simply. "It is...habit, I believe. And now that you know I am owning it, you will only think I am a strange person when I run in late and panicked."

Chuckling throatily, Yelara swatted his thigh. Meer'esh frowned briefly in surprise, but realizing she was not, indeed, angry with him, he continued to smile back. "You didn't have to tell me, then, Meer'esh. Though...it's nice to know."

"But...I had to say it. You were worried and I did not like you to be so about your job." Watching her again with his intensely penetrating gaze, Meer'esh added, "You will never have to be, Yelara. It is your job for as long as you wish it to be."

She laughed softly and playfully knocked her knee against his. "You're a flirt, Meer'esh."

His mouth fell open and Meer'esh appeared genuinely taken aback. "I...I do not mean for that. I am so--"

"Meer'esh," she chided fondly. "It's not an insult and I'm not offended. I'm glad for it, in fact." He shook his head quizzically. Yelara chuckled and leaned into Meer'esh to confide, "It's endearing. It just means that...I've taken your notice and that feels nice, Meer'esh. It's...." She paused in thought, then smiled wistfully. "It's genuine. Not...not like my husband-- exhusband," Yelara corrected hastily. "With him, I don't know what's sincere and what is just an attempt to pull me back into his life. I hate that. It's maddening, especially when I'm still as confused as I am. He's just" --she reclined against the backrest and sighed-- "selfish, that's all."

Meer'esh was silently nodding in acknowledgement, then asked, "You were married for so long?"

Yelara smiled. "Not very...I don't think. Leshie's only eight months old. Liam and I weren't married long before that, I've been told."

In mid-nod, Meer'esh stopped and watched her curiously. Noticing he had picked up on the glaring discrepancy, Yelara sighed and set down her cup. "I might as well," she muttered, sitting back up. "You've told me one secret, why shouldn't I tell you one? It will be an exchange of...." She searched the ceiling for inspiration, then smiled at Meer'esh. "Of bits of ourselves. Though," Yelara added, pointing an accusing finger at Meer'esh, "if I tell you this, you have to tell me what planet you're from. I still can't figure it out."

Meer'esh was truly somber as he deliberated on her offer, and Yelara nearly retracted it out of concern before his dazzling smile returned. "We have agreement."

"Good," she replied happily. "Then you start."

But before either could divulge any specifics, Leshie's screeching cry jolted a gasp from Yelara. It was followed closely by the door chime, sending her into a complete state of disarray. On her feet, looking between the door and Va'Lesh's bedroom frantically Yelara agonized over what to do first: retrieve her screaming child, or greet her visitor. Her reluctance to face Va'Lesh's persistent wailing was nearly enough to coax her towards the door, but her motherly instincts were still too firmly intact. "Meer'esh," she said finally, pleading him with her eyes, "can you get that? I have to check on Leshie." Another shrill scream erupted from Leshie's room, and again the chime rang. Yelara didn't have a chance to ask twice before Meer'esh was rising tall before her.

"You will go to your son," he said delicately, and was striding towards the door before she could thank him. Instead, she rushed off to comfort her son.

***

So much had happened in so short a time. It was impossible to straighten it all out in his mind, to sort through and put it in its place. One thing he did know, however, was that he needed to be a part of his son's life. He knew he couldn't wait any longer, either.

The door opened as he felt it would, though the person on the other side was not who he expected. Liam regarded the stranger for a moment, then offered a bow. "I am Liam Zaneth," he said. "I am here to see Yelara."

Meer'esh, still wearing his smile, bowed his head to Liam. "You are the husband." Recalling his conversation with Yelara, he amended, "Exhusband. You wish to enter?"

"I do not believe I am welcome any longer," Liam answered. "But, I would like to speak with Yelara regarding our child."

"She is attending to the boy now." Meer'esh stepped aside, and unintentionally drove the vibrodagger in deeper as he permissibly gestured Liam inside. "I will tell her you have come, if it is your wish."

"Thank you," Liam answered as he stepped inside. "If you could let her know I'm here, that would be perfect."

"Yes..." Meer'esh replied thoughtfully, his eyes measuring Liam, "I will do--"

"Liam," came a gasp from behind. Leshie's squeal of joy followed, and Liam turned to find a pale and surprised Yelara standing across the room. She clutched Leshie possessively against her bosom. "You're not taking him," she rasped. "You are not taking him away from me, Liam!"

"I don't intend to take him away from you," Liam answered. "He needs his mother. He needs his mother just as much as he needs his father. I know you don't want me as a friend and I know you don't want me as a part of your life. But, I cannot walk away from Va'Lesh. I don't intend to take him from you, but I can't just leave him. But, for me to care for him, we don't need to be friends...we just need our time with him."

Yelara laughed incredulously, shaking her head. Leshie squirmed in her embrace, whimpering for his daddy. "You jerk," she whispered. "You did all this just to tell me the same damn thing I've been telling you? What is wrong with you?!"

"Yelara," Meer'esh interrupted softly, "I should be departing." His coat was already folded over his arm.

"No," she told him, her eyes beseeching him. "Please don't go. Just...please sit. Liam and I will go elsewhere to speak and then" --she stared hard at Liam-- "he'll be leaving."

Meer'esh nodded hesitantly, and remained standing by the doorway as Yelara motioned angrily for Liam to follow while she stalked back to Leshie's room.

Liam bowed again to Meer'esh and followed after Yelara. Once they were in Leshie's room, he turned his gaze to her again. "Actually, that's not quite correct. You keep insisting that we should be friends. The trouble is, Yelara, that you don't wish to be my friend. You would prefer it that, as a part of the past you are trying to get away from, that I not be a part of your life. I am trying to offer a solution that will minimize the time you will need to spend near me, while I will still have my son as part of my life."

"Stop trying to twist my intentions into something vindictive," she said firmly. "I said I wanted us to be friends...and you kept second guessing me. It was as if you wanted to convince me that we shouldn't be! You're tormenting me, and you're tormenting" --Leshie squalled and pushed against Yelara's chest with his tiny hands-- "your son. Why are you doing this to us?"

"Yelara, you are not the woman I married," Liam said. "I accept that. But, I can't help feeling some attachment to you, some pull...something that you don't feel for me. When I look into your eyes, there is a stranger looking out at me. The time we spend together is a torment to me because it is filled with memories of the past and all the hopes I had had in life dashed into nothingness save for my son. You continue to insist that you wish to leave your past behind. I'm a part of your past, Yelara. And, if you want me to be a part of your future, look me in the eyes and tell me so. Tell me that you want me as a friend for you, for your own needs, and not for those of Va'Lesh."

"Gods, you can't ask me that now," she told him wearily, struggling both with her emotions and Leshie trying to break free. "How can you after what you put us through? Look at him!" Yelara nodded her head towards their son. "He was inconsolable yesterday. He only stops pining for you when he's asleep, and even then he tosses and turns. And I can't do anything to comfort him!" Yelara sucked in a quivering breath and sobbed as Leshie again screamed for his father. "He...he doesn't want me," she wept. "Just you, Liam! He's only satisfied when you're here. What the hells am I supposed to do? I need you to be around! Just...please get over this silly paranoia of yours and help me!"

Liam turned away. "He doesn't understand," he said. "Before, we were together and happy. And now...I will be here if you need me to be, for him. I can't just lock away the memories and feelings, Yelara. I can't just shut off the past and forget what we had before. I can't look at you and not see who you used to be. Being near you, knowing it will never be like it was again, knowing that I'm just another person to you, is a constant agony. My heart breaks every time I look into your eyes and the light is gone, the love is gone. You don't have the memories, so you can't know what it's like. But I'll be here because my son needs me, needs us."

"You should've figured that out before you ran out on him," she whispered hoarsely. "Hate me as you will...but don't ever hurt Leshie like that again." Arms outstretched, she offered Leshie to his father, as much as Yelara still resented him. "Here. Hold him before he wears himself out trying to acquire his father's love."

Liam took Leshie into his arms and closed his eyes as he held his son. He whispered softly to the little one, assurances that he would never be gone for long again, that he would always be here. Tears welled and slid down his cheeks as he silently renewed the bond he and Va'Lesh shared. "He will always have my love," Liam whispered softly when he finally opened his eyes. "I am sorry for the pain and suffering I have caused. And, I don't hate you, Yelara; I don't even know you. Your memories are a blank slate, with nothing of the past to colour your view of the future. I don't have that luxury. I was only trying to retain some distance in the hope that the pain of having you so near, but still so distant, would not drive me mad with grief over the loss that is reflected back at me every time I look at you. I was only trying to ease the pain I was causing to both myself and you with my presence in your life."

Yelara sighed. "You were being selfish," she told him softly. "I understand that it might be hard for you...but this is the price you'll have to pay for trying to meddle with life and death. I'm sorry for this, Liam. I am, truly. But I'm sure we can find an arrangement that will work for us both." She smiled. "For Va'Lesh."

"I will spend the rest of my life in torment," Liam said, "but I wouldn't change any of my actions. Va'Lesh needs his mother, and there was only one way to do it. And, my actions the other night were only half selfish. I know that my presence makes you very uncomfortable, and you're not happy when I'm around. As much as I was trying to get distance to ease the pain, I was trying to make things easier for you as well. But, I guess we'll have to find a way to endure each other for the sake of our son."

"You can watch Leshie while I'm at work, and we don't have to say a word to each other when I come to relieve you," Yelara suggested. "It's as simple as that."

Liam closed his eyes for a moment, then finally nodded. "Alright," he said. "Well, I'll leave you to your date now, and I'll come back in the morning to pick up Leshie."

"It's not a date," she informed him with a roll of her eyes. "He came as a friend out of concern." Yelara sighed and muttered, "Not that it's any business of yours.... But he really is a nice man, Liam, and I plan to see him as often as I'm able. And I'm sure he'll love Leshie, and Leshie will love him back."

"Just as long as you will inform me before you replace me as Va'Lesh's father," Liam said. "If you would prefer we obtain an intermediary who can transport Leshie between us so that you don't even need to see me, we can arrange for that as well. Tomorrow I will be stopping by one of the government offices here in the city to obtain whatever papers are necessary to end our marriage officially. I'm not certain how your death affects the situation, but whatever needs to happen so that you no longer need to be bound to me in any way. I'll also sign over the lease to this apartment if you wish. Perhaps once I am out of your life, you can let go of the anger you're holding onto and move on with your life as you wish."

"You're always so extreme, Liam," she noted critically. "Just...do what you have to do to make all this easier on you and I'll be satisfied." With a shake of her head, Yelara walked past Liam for the door. The air had suddenly become stifling.

"I am," Liam answered as he placed a much calmer Leshie back in his crib. "You don't want me around, and the resentment I see in your eyes every time you look in my direction tears at my heart. The fewer connections we have and the less interaction, the better. I'm just trying to give you fewer avenues to hate me as you do, regardless of whether you admit you do to yourself or not. You died six months ago, and I never let you go; I'm just doing what I should have then. I am only hoping to minimize the impact we will have on each other's lives." He bent and gave his son a kiss before stepping away from the crib. "I should go now. I'll stop back in the morning to pick him up."

"No," she said quickly, whirling to face him. "Liam...if you leave so soon, he'll go crazy again. Just...just stay. Meer'esh and I will go out and give you two some time alone." Yelara watched him with far less bitterness as she told Liam, "As much as you believe I do, I don't hate you, Liam. I just hate what's happened to us all and that I can't just...love you like I once might have so this whole situation could be so much easier. It's not about love or hate now, though...it's about making the best of this situation, that's all." With an exhausted sigh Yelara turned back to the door, and resting one hand upon the door release, she paused. "Liam...do what you need to for your own satisfaction...but I'm not asking any of it of you. But I'll respect whatever you decide. It's...all up to you." Then, she departed before Liam had more preposterous ideas.

Liam turned and watched her go. He didn't understand her now, or her desire to have him around. With a sigh, he decided she just needed him to watch their son while she went out with her new friend and while she worked. He already knew her opinion of the Jedi was low, and perhaps she felt that he would have nothing but time to be able to watch Va'Lesh. In the end, he knew that she just didn't understand, but he had a feeling she didn't care either. He sighed and moved over to sit next to Leshie's crib. He'd never have his wife back, but at least he had his son now.

***

Meer'esh looked up from staring at the tops of his shoes when Yelara returned. He smiled warily. "Is it fine, Yelara? Is Va'Lesh fine?"

"Yeah," she sighed. "Liam's visiting his son for a while." Meer'esh followed her with his eyes as Yelara passed him directly for the coat-rack. She retrieved a heavy, long black coat and began slipping it on without explanation.

"Yelara?" Meer'esh asked uncertainly. "Are you leaving?"

"I am," was her vague reply. Meer'esh had the door full open, prepared to excuse himself, by the time she turned to smile at him. "Meer'esh...we're leaving together. If you don't mind, that is."

"Mind?" He shook his head, chuckling. "I do not. I...believed you wanted time alone."

"I do," she answered matter-of-factly, and caught Meer'esh by surprise with a brief kiss. He stared down at her wide-eyed. "Time alone with you, Meer'esh. So...shall we?" Yelara waved her arm towards the hallway, and Meer'esh obliged by stepping outside. She grinned and slipped her arm around his elbow. "Then, let's go..."

And with a nod, Meer'esh escorted them from the apartment, though Yelara couldn't resist a final look back at the son and former husband she was leaving behind. Liam was granting her every concession she truly wanted but refused to admit and to end their marriage officially. Yet, she couldn't explain the knot sitting in her gut, or the spike of fear that consumed her when Liam made mention of dissolving their relationship. It was her deepest desire...so why was she still clinging fiercely to him? I don't love him and never will, she told herself, but believing it would be the hardest part of all.

---

"Running Away from Dahaka, Part 2"
Auron Ronso
Kyra Ronso
Ellemiek Vermollen
Allison Blair
Aeris Strife - NPC+
Cloud Everblades
Kolonos - NPC (written by Cloud Everblades)
Doctor Yankovic - Engineer/Genetic Scientist - NPC (written by Ellemiek Vermollen)

Location: Rebel Village, Mountains of New Plouton
Date: Vadris 17, 4 ABY

***

Kyra saw the black tentacles coming in her direction. She moved, avoiding being hit by one of the tentacles, running up the wall and jumping to a pole above them. She took a swing and let go, hitting a wooden board of a house. She looked where to go from there she saw two poles that weren't so far off.

Kyra heard a growl and saw this black monster with two curved horns. He was entirely black, as if he was composed by a black hole or something. Then, in a split second, she saw a tentacle protruding from this dark beast's torso and coming in her direction. Instinctively, she jumped off the wooden board, spreading her legs, and putting each foot on one pole. The tentacle hit the wall, missing her for only a few mere millimeters.

She used the impulsion of her left foot to move above the other pole, and from there she jumped to the top of the building. She rolled over the floor of the top of the building, trying to breathe. Kyra then got up and looked down, seeing the huge monster start to move away. For now she had avoided her pursuer, but she knew very well it was only a matter of time until Dahaka, the Lord of Shadows would catch her.

***

"She seems to be calming down. I don't know what you did, Master Allison, but for a moment I thought it wasn't working," Auron said.

"That was no convulsion, since we had to hold her. She was possibly dreaming about something. Don't you agree Master Allison?" Aeris asked.

"Yes... She has a high fever. It is possible that she is suffering from some kind of delusion or dream," Alisson nodded. "Let us hope that her body will be able to fight off this fever by rising her natural defenses. If we get the fever down, it might be easier to get her well. At any rate, a fever also indicates that her body is fighting the disease, which is not entirely bad," she added. "We should get her a cool towel to place in her forehead."

Aeris got up picked up a towel and wet it on the water pipe that exited in the toilet room. The towel was cold, since the water was so enough to hurt Aeris' fingers. "Here."

"It's a little bit too cold," Alisson said as she took the towel off Aeris' hands. Luckily enough, there was a heater there and they could get the towel to a more ideal temperature quite fast. Alisson then placed the towel in Kyra's forehead and sighted. For the time being, there wasn't much more they could do, except wait.

Several minutes later, silence took over the room. No one could say anything, still waiting for the help that Cloud said was coming.

An hour had passed and Auron almost fell asleep, as he sat on the far corner of the room. Aeris and Alisson stood near Kyra and constantly exchanged looks between them. Suddenly, they heard a noise of a fighter's engine nearby. Auron woke up and all three exited from the room, walking outside and looking towards the sky. Auron could see that Ellemiek was outside, also glancing to the sky. Cloud was standing in the large square of the village and had some kind of a communication device.

"Fireburst, this is Central do you copy?" Cloud said towards the communication device, glancing to the sky.

"Central, this is Fireburst. We were able to avoid the planet scanners, we are good to go for the package, over!"

Cloud saw a black freighter moving around. It had designs that probably no one else in the village had ever seen before. "Copy that, Fireburst." Cloud placed the small device on the ground. "Ultra-violet signal is activated, drop area is confirmed, over."

"Dropping the package in four seconds."

"Confirmed, over. Nice flight home, Fireburst!" Cloud said, walking away from the area where he was standing.

The pilot of Fireburst lined himself with the signal. He had one single shot to do it, since his speed was fast. When the count down reached zero, he clicked a button and dropped the package.

Auron saw the freighter dropping four cylindrical tubes, and just a small period of about a second later he heard the sounds. The tubes descended, all of them making the same degree angle as they dropped. In the distance he saw several metallic things that worked like parachute a parachute pop out from the tubes, and he was amazed by it. Not only the parachute, but the ship also. As the tubes came closer, several pointy metal things exited from the front side, hitting hard on the ground. After what Auron had seen and heard he could only say one thing. "Awesome!." He walked to the square, seeing the four tubes perfectly aligned with the object that Cloud had left on the ground.

Ellemiek looked at the tubes. They were rather big, taller than even a person, and she figured they were supplies, as the trip up the mountain was impossible to get any kind of regular land craft up to their location. That was when two of the four tubes opened themselves. From within, came out two men, one of them looking rather old, even though he seemed to be in good physical shape.

Cloud approached the men with smile. "Kolonos, it is good to see you again."

"You too, good friend. Ahh, may introduce you to Doctor Yankovic. He is new to our ranks and he is helping us out. He is quite a genius in the ways of Medicine."

"It is good to meet you Doctor. I hope that the trip wasn't rough on you?" Cloud said as he shook Yankovic's hand.

"Not at all. I've had worse moments in my life," Yankovic replied.

It was then, upon hearing the man's name that something clicked in Ellemiek's head. She had heard the name before, and was trying to recall when and where. She had just remembered. "Excuse me... Doctor Yankovic, as in the medical engineer who has performed countless genetic and bio-modifications in humans, namely in Grand Admiral Tarkin's Red Guards?"

Yankovic turned to face Ellemiek with a frown. He hadn't expected to be recognised so fast by someone else. But at least she had recognised one of his most fascinating work, even if for a not so good cause. Not that he cared too much about it now. After all they were dead, and so was Tarkin. "Yes," Yankovic replied. "That is correct, my dear."

Alisson Blair recognised what Ellemiek had mentioned. So this was the man responsible for the Sith-like guards under Tarkin's orders. The very same ones who had attacked the Temple and who had been responsible at the time for the murder of Jedi Master Andro Ki'Ayalin. "You do realise the consequences of your work, Doctor. You were responsible for many deaths, and I suspect that the number is by far larger than what I believe it to be."

Yankovic shook his head. "You don't understand... And I don't expect you to, so I shall not bother to explain, especially when it will be wasting my time with a patient. Now, do you want me to treat your friend or not? I was told that the medication she had was not working anymore, so this means that the less time I get with her, the less chances she as to survive."

Ellemiek frowned. "You will have your time with the patient. But be warned, Doctor, that you had better succeed. And after this, I will want to talk to you."

"Yes, I would expect nothing less," Yankovic smirked. "Now, who can show me the way?"

"This way!" Cloud said, showing where Kyra was.

Yankovic followed Cloud into the small hut where Kyra was, followed by Kolonos, who took some gear with him. He saw Kyra lying down and watched as she seemed calm enough. Calm enough for the regular eye. But Yankovic had studied Kyra's condition on his way over, and had familiarized himself with the serious state of mutation that was constantly trying to beat the serum that she took. As it seemed, Kolonos was able to develop a serum that set the disease back, but wasn't able to decimate it. But Yankovic had seen a way that could work for good. It was much alternative, but so were his methods.

"Leave us..." Yankovic said plainly to Cloud. He waited for the young man to leave and then turned to look at Kyra. He opened a case that he had with him and took a blood sample from her, then attaching the syringe to a small computer for analysis. "She is fighting her way through... And losing, I might add..." he commented as he looked at the result from the sample. "But it seems someone helped her through by naturally enhancing her immune system. It must have been that Jedi woman. Kyra here would probably have died if not for that."

Yankovic then took out a small test tube and tried out the serum in a small blood sample. He then took out yet another small portion of the blood sample and placed it in a different test tube, this time with a new serum that he had previously developed, using the database from the laboratory that was provided by Kolonos. Placing both test tubes in a small portable mixing unit, he used it to accelerate the process and see the results.

"I want to try another way. We know that we cannot kill this disease. But what if we were able to contain it and isolate it?" Yankovic told Kolonos, with a bit of a smirk. "I have read your attempts to do so, and they were all failures because the disease would mutate and find a way around. Yes, I know. But what if we could let it roam freely inside her body, only have it dormant and attached to her own cells? I believe that she would be serum free and have a healthy life."

"But how do we control the disease if it's in constant mutation?" Kolonos asked.

"Yes..." Yankovic sighted. "I was worried about that myself at first. The bypassing capabilities of this disease would surely find a way, given the proper time. But not if we alter it's genetic capability to do so," he explained. "One thing that I learned when I created the elite troopers for Grand Admiral Tarkin was that there was need to contain the spread of the cells growth in midichlorine. Of course this was only accomplished by micro-nanobots that were inserted into the bloodstream to contain the cells from an exponential overcharge. But in Kyra's case, I have created a serum that will blend the micro-nanobots with the disease, changing its mutating patterns. The result, I'm hoping, will be a new altered form of her disease, strong enough to multiply and take over the other cells from the disease, changing them also, almost instantaneously."

Yankovic then took the test tubes back out to examine them, just as the machine came to a full stop. Upon checking the results, he sighted. "Humm... Interesting... Very interesting indeed. It seems that the result was what I expected, but more..."

"More?" Kolonos asked, somewhat curious.

"Yes... It seems that the evolution of the disease was contained and even changed genetically. But it also blended fully with her bloodstream, making it stronger. It seems like the bloodstream of a feline of sorts. Stronger and with a greater capability to cure its organism. Surely this will have repercussions on Kyra..." he stated. "It can very well save her life, but the side effects are unknown. She could suffer some changes in her personality. Become more...feral, if you would. But I don't believe that she will lose her ability to think clearly or her humanity. Just have more animalesque reflexes and perhaps more acute senses... Perhaps some other smaller changes as well."

As Yankovic explained all the details to Kolonos, he readied the new serum to administrate it to Kyra. "Your call Kolonos... If I don't give it to her she will die. And if I do... I cannot guarantee the side-effects beyond those I already mentioned."

"Well. She volunteered herself to be the one to test the injections and it worked. I know in my heart that she will volunteer herself for such an operation. But to tell you the truth, Doctor, the call is yours to make."

"Yes..." Yankovic grinned. "Perhaps it is. But I know this young woman. And believe me when I tell you...if you knew her father like I did, then you'd know that there is no other alternative other than this attempt to make her well."

"Well doctor, let's begin!" Kolonos said with smile, since he was finally going to see a master at work.

Yankovic took the serum and attached it to a medication pistol. Once it was ready he shot the vaccine he had onto Kyra's body and sat back. Picking up a small datapad unit, Yankovic watched as the micro-nanobots sent information about the first few minutes of how the process was going. As it seemed, his indications were right, and the new serum was spreading out like mad throughout Kyra's body. It would only be a couple of minutes before it was all complete, and Kyra should awake shortly afterwards.

***

Kyra turned and saw the Dahaka in front of her. One of its black tentacles exited from his chest and hit her right shoulder. Kyra screamed in pain and looked to the monster. "You will not take me! Not now, nor ever!" A grey color started to appear around the wound and it began to spread towards the tentacle and towards the Dahaka. "Now, I'm the one who is absorbing you!" Kyra said.

***

Yankovic stepped back outside and sighted. The others seemed to go up to him to know the answer. He always enjoyed the expressions on those who awaited the answers. Finally, he decided to go to address them. "The operation, as it seems, has gone successful. I cannot say more, as only time will tell. But, according to my calculations - and I'm quite precise when it comes to my work - Kyra should wake up in a few minutes."

Auron sighed at the doctor's sentence and glanced over to Alisson. She had never seen the doctor before, even though she recognised his work. But the past between them had been horrible. Now, all that everyone was thinking was whether Kyra was going to get better.

---

"Soup"
By Jerriko Volfe (NPC+ Written by Phalen Maxim)

Location: Drogen
Date: Vadris 17th, 4ABY

***

"I sure appreciate this," Jerriko smiled. "It seems everyone is out to rip someone else off these days. Pretty sad when the Galaxy is so unforgiving..."

"Aw it's no problem, really!" the young woman replied. "There are still a few people out here who are willing to help someone out without expecting anything in return. The Galaxy sure would be a better place if more people acted civilized."

Jerriko gave her a toothy grin as he studied her. Her scent was delightful, she was aesthetically pleasing to look at...which was important to him. He couldn't stand to partake upon a being that was unpleasantly aesthetic. Her aura and physical health, most importantly, enticed him greatly. She was in perfect health, and was quite intelligent.

He had met her at the space port of New Plouton. He had persuaded her with his Anzati pheromones and mild telepathic abilities that he was in need of a ride and the she should oblige him. He played on her natural good will and sense of civilized obligation. So she had allowed him to accompany her on her trip to Drogen, where she worked as a Personnel Resources specialist.

He loved a good game.

"I'm rather ravished," he said. "I would like to have you for dinner, to repay you for your kindness," he said with a grin.

The woman blushed, "That would be nice! It isn't necessary of course, I am more than happy to help, I mean we are going to the same place and all..." she blabbered on.

Put the ship on auto pilot, dear, he conveyed mentally, seducing and persuading her.

Her words trailed off as she seemed to lose her train of thought. Her eyes fluttered and began to have a vacant look about them. But she complied to his desires.

He unstrapped himself from the seat and motioned for her to do the same. She smiled, almost drunkenly as she slowly unstrapped herself and arose, taking his offered hand.

He led her a few steps from the two chairs in the ship's cabin and pulled her close. He smelled her hair and allowed his proboscis to slither out from their cheek pouches to taste her essence.

His heart raced and he felt the intoxication of anticipation. He wanted her.

He whispered into her ear soothingly, as his proboscis found their way behind her ears to a soft spot. They shot in forcefully as he held her tight, she jerked from the intrusion and gasped.

He slowly lowered her body in his arms, as he knelt down with her to the floor. His probs began to drain her life force, her soup from her body. Slight shivers of delight reverberated fro his body in concert with the woman's bodily spasms as her brain was devoured...

---

"Bypassed Lecture"
By: Cadwin Tarell
Kaysa Zenarr-Tregat
Zale Tregat
Maeren Shivral

Location: Zenarr-Tregat Residence, New Plouton
Date: Vadris 17, 4 ABY

***

They were walking down the street together, arm in arm, and still feeling the lingering effects of the various different substances they'd consumed during the night. The speeder remained where they'd left it, knowing that to drive now would only tempt fate. Cadwin's lips nuzzled against Kaysa's throat as they moved through the crunching snow, each oblivious to the chilling effects.

"I still don't understand it," Cadwin finally said as he pulled far enough away to light another spice cigarra for them. Shiv's sudden departure had taken them both by surprise, but after a few moments they'd been able to resume their carnal activities. Still, the abruptness with which Shiv left, after appearing so enthusiastic, was a shock that had lingered beneath the surface for both, even after their coupling had ended. Neither had mentioned it until now. "She was enjoying herself, right? I can't remember the last time anything like that has happened, especially for someone who seemed to want it so bad."

"It was Keeve," Kaysa guessed distractedly. "She must not have been able to forget him after all." Snorting wryly, she added, "Though that's never stopped her before...."

"Oh gods," came the cry as Cadwin thrust deeper inside of her. Ripples of pleasure spread through her body, but close behind them was the guilt of her betrayal. "I've got to go...I can't...I've...I can't do that...please, let me...let me up...!"

Kaysa chuckled thickly, weighing Shiv's chest down with her free hand. "Don't listen to her, Cad," she rasped. "It's an act she likes to perform to get us hotter. Just keep going."

Cadwin chuckled. "I guess we'll just have to try harder next time," he said as he gave her a wolfish grin.

"I'll need to talk to her when we get home," she continued absently and oblivious to Cadwin's flirtations. She mechanically accepted the cigarra from Cadwin and took a deep lungful. "And Keeve," she exhaled, "needs a talking-to as well. I can't believe he'd guilt her to the point where she can't do a thing without feeling horrible!"

"Please," Shiv sobbed as Cadwin continued to thrust into her. Between his touch and Kaysa's, it was hard to pull away. But she had to...she had to get away before it was too late. "Please, let me go, I can't do this to Keeve. He'll be so mad, and...and I can't do this to him. Please...I'm sorry...I have to...I can't..." She tried pushing away, panic setting in as they seemed to ignore her pleas.

"And, it's not like we're strangers she's out picking up," Cadwin added. "I mean, we're his parents, Kayse. If he can't trust us with her, who can he trust? Right? I don't believe that boy sometimes. He certainly didn't get his prudish behaviour from us."

Swaying atop Shiv with her slit positioned conveniently on Shiv's protruding hip bone, Kaysa sighed in delight and pushed her hand up between her lover's breasts. "Shiv," she said breathlessly, "don't mind about Keeve. He...he doesn't love you like I do - like Cadwin and I can. You know this is what you want" --her statement was punctuated by a forceful thrust of her fist within Shiv's opening-- "just give in."

"No," Shiv cried again. "Please, I can't...I love him...I love him!" She tried pushing again, then she kicked out in anger and a grunt of pain came from above them as her foot found Cadwin's shin. And, with that, she started screaming.

"No," she sighed, leaning her head upon Cadwin's shoulder, "but he does have some influence over Shiv, so I need some way to get through to him if Shiv doesn't budge." Kaysa smiled slowly. "I could use Aria. Give him an ultimatum: let Shiv do what she wants or you never see your sister again. There's no way I'm letting him turn my girl into a brat as big as he is."

"That might be a little heavy-handed," Cadwin said, then laughed. "I love it. Another option would be to threaten to turn Aria into that which Keeve despises. Tell him he can let Maeren be with us when she wants, or it would be a shame if Aria happened to find herself surrounded by things that would be such a very bad influence on her..."

Kaysa chuckled and lightly bit Cadwin's shoulder. "I am not having sex in front of my child!" Slipping her arms around his waist and nuzzling her lips to his cheek, she whispered, "Not unless I'm hi on Spice...."

"You never know," he whispered back with a grin. "And, besides, it may or may not happen...but the threat should be real enough for Keeve. I wonder how much he'd agree to to spare his little sister's purity."

"Everything," Kaysa answered instantly and without thought. "I know it, Cad. He'd give up everything for her. I knew that the day I saw him lay his eyes upon her. He wants her to have the childhood he didn't." She smiled wryly. "I don't blame him..."

"Well, there we go," Cadwin said. "I think we're going to have to have a mother and father to son talk with him. I think it's long overdue."

"He'll likely attempt to slug you," Kaysa warned him. "Do you think you'd be able to hit your own son...again?"

"I don't know how well I would last against Keeve if it came to that," he answered. "If it was required, I could. But if I hit him hard enough to knock some sense into his head, I think it may split open."

"Shiv!" Kaysa twisted around at the waist to watch Cadwin nursing his throbbing leg. She swung back around with her hand flying. It caught Shiv's cheek hard, and the ensuing crack echoed in the room. "What the hells is wrong with you!? You wanted this and now you're playing coy?" Jerking her other hand free of Shiv's groin, Kaysa used it to clutch Shiv's hair and added another handprint to the already fading one on her cheek.

Kaysa laughed. "Just as stubborn as his mother, hm? Isn't that what you fell in love with?"

"Oh indeed," he answered. "But, in you it's very charming. But in him, it's in the way of us getting what we want. That girl's soul is crying out to be free, and he's stifling her, suffocating her. She can't be happy."

"Stop it," Shiv shrieked, her own hand trying to find purchase to slap Kaysa away. "I don't want it now! I can't do this to Keeve! Just...just let me go! I'm sorry! Gods, I'm so sorry!"

"And am I stifled, Cad?" she teased. "Is that why you came back into my life? To save my poor, withering soul..."

"Well, maybe you were before," Cadwin said with a grin, "but I think after tonight, there's no stiflage left."

Kaysa sighed in disgust as she untangled her fingers from Shiv's hair. "You've changed, Shiv," she told her harshly, still seated atop her almost lover. Staring hard into Shiv's tearful eyes, Kaysa sought some tiny glimmer of the woman she once knew, but found none. Shaking her head pitiably, Kaysa slid off Shiv and stood with her shadow falling across Shiv's still-prone body. "Go on...run to him. Turn your back on me and go!"

Shiv scrambled from the bed and gathered her clothes as she rushed to the door. Her sobs could still be heard as she rushed down the hall.

"Stupid," Kaysa seethed, watching the door close behind her fleeing lover. "She'll come back. She always does...."

Kaysa and Cadwin shared in gentle laughter as they climbed the porch staircase to their home. They did so clumsily, for not even the cold could shock them into sobriety. Their laughter only intensified as they stumbled about on the landing and collapsed against the door. Kaysa giggled and shoved her hand into his pocket to grab for the keycard. Cadwin gasped thickly and Kaysa snickered as her hand closed on something within the pocket. "Well...that wasn't it," she purred.

"Most definitely not it," Cadwin moaned, "but you can keep doing that if you like. You've got beautiful hands, especially when they're rough. Card's in the other pocket if you really want it."

"It is warmer inside," she mused, and smiling mischievously removed her hand from his pocket to snake it down the front of his pants. "But I'm sure we can heat things up out here," Kaysa husked, then kissed Cadwin fervently.

Cadwin returned the kiss just as passionately as his own hands made their way under and up Kaysa's shirt, finding her waiting breasts. He was moaning as her hand worked him back into a hardness he hadn't expected to see for at least another thirty minutes after all their debauchery at the club. He moaned into her mouth as she drew him from his pants, and his own hands quickly worked to get into her own. He was certain, once they'd begun coupling again, it would feel like the middle of summer out here on the porch.

As he had just managed to push her pants down far enough for their needs, the world suddenly tilted awkwardly and they were bathed in a warm rush of air. Cadwin and Kaysa flailed to maintain balance, but then a strong hand was there to keep them upright.

"Oh, hello there," came the voice on the other side of the door. Zale stood there, appearing taller than usual as he gazed at them. "I guess the porch is one of the last places around here yet to be christened. Though, I would have thought spring or summer to be a better time. It'd be a shame for someone to get frostbite...I hear, when that happens, things start to fall off." He gave a pointed look to Cadwin. "You just missed Maeren. She, Keeve, and Kimara just left a little bit ago. Though, I must say that Maeren was...very distressed." He gave a mock shudder. "Fortunately, I was the one here because I am so level-headed. I don't know what Merrick would have done had he been here."

"Likely allowed us to continue without interruption," Kaysa retorted. With one arm wrapped around Cadwin's neck, Kaysa swung her other around Zale's and pulled him down for a lewd kiss. "You know," she breathed when their lips separated and her tongue withdrew from his mouth, "you could always join us out here. Or upstairs. Whatever you prefer."

"I'm still watching our baby," Zale said as he smiled into her eyes. "I don't think it would be a good idea right now. Besides, I don't think I could really enjoy it unless Cadwin gave me a tumble." He winked at Cadwin who looked away, and Zale laughed. "Don't worry, Cad, I'd be gentle. Just ask Merrick." He pulled his gaze away from Kaysa's other husband. "I don't think I've ever seen Keeve as upset as he was tonight. Well, except for that one time he shot me."

"Keeve's a brat," Kaysa explained dismissively. "You do know he's making Shiv's life hell because of his restrictions and temper tantrums. It isn't fair."

"That's a problem Keeve and Shiv will have to work through," Zale said. "But, right now, dragging her off and around is only making things worse. The two of them need time."

"Time for what?" Kaysa snapped, stepping past Zale into their home as she adjusted her clothing. "Zale, Shiv wanted to be there. She would have enjoyed herself, too, if Keeve hadn't planted those seeds of guilt in her vulnerable little mind. He's the one who made her the way she is now."

"Not technically, but that's another matter," Zale answered. "But, they need to sort this out between them. They do love each other very much, and it's straining their relationship. They need to find some middle ground, some way to get through this where they can both be happy."

"That's just fine," Kaysa explained as she moved towards the sofa, "but he won't come between us, Zale." She sank down into the plush cushions and sighed. "Shiv was mine before she was Keeve's, Zale. He won't have her."

"Just be prepared to face whatever may come if that comes to pass," Zale answered, then looked over at Cadwin. "Might want to tuck yourself in there, Champ. Keep it up, and I might think you're trying to give me a hint." With a smirk, he turned back to Kaysa while Cadwin straightened his slacks. "In any case, our daughter was perfectly behaved tonight."

Kaysa exhaled a fatigued sigh and rubbed tiredly at her eyes. "Aria.... She's asleep?"

"I just put her down before you got here," Zale said. "She's in the crib in our room right now."

"Oh," she murmured, "better not disturb her. If she wakes up now, I'll never get any sleep. She just doesn't stop crying, does she?"

"She was good for most of the night," Zale said. "Though, once she dirtied her diaper, I wasn't sure when she'd stop crying. Though, Saris was really good with her. She'll make a wonderful mother one of these days."

Kaysa snorted wryly. "I'm sure she'll reconsider the entire concept of motherhood once she has her own squalling baby and less than three hours of sleep a night."

"Well, I don't mind getting up to be with ours," Zale said with a fond smile for the daughter they made together. "And, as long as we have some formula ready, I won't even need to borrow a breast."

"She can't live off formula, Zale," Kaysa informed him rudely. "She's too young for that. Are you trying to make your daughter sick?"

"Not at all," Zale said with a chiding look. "I don't think a couple feedings in the middle of the night while you're getting your beauty sleep can be considered 'living off formula.' You can pull out the girls and feed her during the day, when you're awake. If you want more than three hours of sleep at night, that is."

Kaysa smiled dreamily and sighed as she pillowed her head into the backrest. "Yeah," she whispered happily, "that'd be nice.... We should try that." Holding out a hand to Cadwin, Kaysa winked at her husband. "Take me to bed?" She glanced aside at Zale, smirking. "We'll try to get some sleep, but no promises."

"Try not to wake the neighbours," Zale said as Cadwin took her hand and started to lead her away.

Once they were out of the room and alone in the hall, Cadwin glanced over at Kaysa. "Too bad Maeren isn't here with us. Even as she was leaving, did you see the look in her eyes? If we'd known the right thing to say, the right encouragement, she wouldn't have even made it to the door."

"Yeah...if I'd only known," Kaysa murmured, while inside she raged at her inability to lure Shiv back. Keeve's hold had undeniably tightened on her star, and Kaysa's jealousy stirred. She loved her son, but refused to tolerate his interference. He was only a possessive little boy, and as his mother, Kaysa was appointed with the duty of setting him straight. She would, and regain Shiv's devotion in the process. It was rightfully hers. "I think, Cad," Kaysa mused, "we'll be seeing Shiv again very soon." Kissing his cheek, she whispered, "Trust me as the vindictive bitch you first fell in love with."

Cadwin suppressed a moan as they slipped into one of the empty bedrooms, their clothes disappearing in a trail behind them. He longed to be inside Shiv once again. The brief few moments were glorious and the sounds she made stirred him at his core. And, with Kaysa and Shiv together, he was certain he would go mad. Oh, but soon. Soon, everything would be as it should be. He would have Kaysa to himself, Maeren would be his as well. And, the life he had lost would be returned to him.

---

"I, Padawan"
By: Vaya Bek, Padawan

Location: Hjarii Moonworld
Date: Vadris 17th, 4ABY

***

Vaya had left the area where the ruins lay. She opened herself to the Force as she wandered around the area, sensing the currents about her. One of her first lessons about the Force was how it was an energy created by all living things, how it surrounded, penetrated and bound all things. So much was possible with the Force, and Vaya thought of being attuned like it was having one foot in the normal world and another in what the Force showed and offered to those like herself who were connected to it.

Vaya thought about Master Vorrel's lesson of the Ancients, and the wisdom that she had shared of those Ancients with the Hjarii Shaman. She thought back about that day at the Temple when she let herself go completely to the Force, allowing herself to become a medium for its wisdom and power. Though not completely changed by the experience, Vaya felt that she had better understanding of what Laedra had meant about how the Ancients had transcended, and that it was possible for any who would open themselves and learn.

Vaya found herself in the middle of a field, tall blades of grass stretched up to her hips and flowed with a gentle breeze, lightly batting at her body back and forth with the current of the air. She closed her eyes and outstretched her hands to allow the blades to gently tickle against her open hands, and she let herself go to the Force...seeking its serenity and empowerment.

The Force is strong with you, Vaya, you are both a tool for the Force and yet the Force can be made to obey your command, Kherris had told her.

She thought fondly of her former Master and mentor, and close friend. She still felt some pang of his loss from her life, but she was content in her new found friends and family in the Jedi of Tae'Karada.

You only need to learn to listen with your soul, the Force will guide your way, Qel had told her. Learn to go with its flow, never fight it, trust completely in its power and wisdom.

A smile came to her lips at the not too distant memory of her Spirit Guide, who was once a Jedi named Qel. He had been her first mentor in the Force, before she had met Kherris and before she had journeyed to Tae'Karada.

She had been through much in the past five years since she began to train in the ways of the Jedi. She took to the lessons naturally and with much dedication. The Force was her life, to its will and to become a Jedi to serve the Force and the people of the Galaxy were her only direction in life.

She continued to stand in the field as she connected to her surroundings through the Force. She could feel the presence of Laedra and Koran, and of Zari and Cole, like bright stars that burned brighter than others in a sky full of stars. She could feel the two Hjarii, WinLos and VeeTa, though they felt different than those of her Jedi companions. And then there was another presence, a very strong bright spot nearby that was similar to that of her Jedi friends and mentors, but not quite the same.

Vaya saw the Shaman's hut, saw the Shaman chanting, heard the chants and felt the ebbs in the Force about the woman. She could feel her plead for the deliverance of the Hjarii, but she also felt a sense of assuredness, like they were meant to be there and were supposed to be upon their world at this particular time. She watched as the Shaman danced around and swung her staff about, chanting in her Hjarii tongue. And then she stopped. Vaya saw her eyes, and she felt as if the Shaman was looking at her as the Shaman rose her staff and pointed it at Vaya, "Jeedai!"

Vaya opened her eyes and the sky had become dark. She felt serene and refreshed, she felt optimistic of her place among the Jedi and their mission to help the Hjarii people. Some time had passed as she had stood in the middle of the field, she thought she had better make her way back to their camp and check back in. She had a feeling that Shaman was ready for them, and they had an important mission ahead...

---

"Claiming The Fruits Of One's Labor"
by Zarrak - Bounty Hunter/Slaver

Location: Femat Ovif's mansion and Arcadia
Date: Vadris 17, 4ABY

***

Zarrak had just left Grabaga's palace. Grabaga was the one who hired him to kill a Twi'lek crime lord, known as Femat Ovif.

What struck Zarrak as kind of weird was the fact the fact the Grabaga gave him the two million credits that he was promised after he killed Femat. The Dug heard that back on Malastare his people were treated as slaves by the Gran. Yet for some reason Zarrak always seemed to find himself working for a Gran. He shrugged his shoulders and continued to walk the streets.

Many children glanced at him and he could tell they were trying hard not to laugh and he knew why. The legs of a Dug were malformed so they had to walk on their strong arms and hands. His hands were fairly large and looked more like feet while his feet looked more like hands and. Both his hands and his feet had four digits and sharp claws grew from his finger-like toes.

Zarrak came upon a shipyard and he smiled. He entered the shop and walked to the front desk which was taller than he was.

"Is anyone here?" he asked in Basic.

The human shop keeper glanced at the Dug and smiled politely at him. "Hello," she said. "May I help you?"

"I'd like to borrow a freighter. How much will that cost?"

"How long do you plan on using it?"

"Just for today." His left foot grabbed the pouch of credits he had and he held it out to her. "How does ten thousand credits sound?"

The shop keeper nodded and Zarrak began to count ten thousand credits and handed them to her.

The ship he picked out was a YT-1300 with a blue and silver paint job, he personally didn't like the colors but it was a ship and he needed it. It seemed to be pretty old and moved kind of slow but Zarrak didn't plan on being chased. The Dug also had to position the pilot's seat just right so he could grab the control yoke with his strong hands. When flying or piloting anything Zarrak would use his hands.

He saw Femat's mansion which was at the outskirts of Arcadia and he landed it. Zarrak walked down the boarding ramp and entered the mansion and headed towards Femat's opulent bed chambers. The door slid open and the Dug was greeted by a sight that he did not want to see.

A human male with a receding hair line and his black-furred Bothan partner were inside of the room and were grabbing some of Femat's treasures and were placing them in some sacks.

"What the hell are you two doing here!" Zarrak demanded. "I was here first! I'm the one who killed Femat therefore all of this is mine!"

"We were Femat's guards and we just found him dead!" the Bothan spat. The Bothan walked towards the Dug just as he removed a dagger from his belt. "I'm goin' to teach you a lesson 'bout stealin' from people!"

"You're in deep bantha poodoo now my small friend," the human said with a sadistic grin on his face. "Rem'fel here will whoop you good."

The Bothan, Rem'fel charged at Zarrak just as the Dug bent his arms and pushed himself forwards, his feet catching Rem'fel hard in the chest. The Bothan feel to the ground and Zarrak grabbed his skinny neck with one foot and began to slam the Bothan's head on the hard ferrocrete floor.

"Don't move or I'll smash your friend's head in good!" Zarrak growled.

The human took another step forward but Rem'fel shouted something in Bothese which Zarrak didn't understand a word of but the human must've because he stopped dead in his tracks.

Zarrak let got of the Bothan's throat but grabbed one of his Scatter pistols and slammed the Bothan's head with the butt of it and then he fired several shots into the human.

It took him several hours to transfer most of the more expensive objects to the freighter. He sold them to an art dealer back at Arcadia and made a lot of credits.

---

"The Whiphid Incident"
By Phalen Maxim

Location: Drogen Shipyards Docking Bay
Date: Vadris 17th, 4ABY

***

"Gnuuunff!"

A large hairy arm knocked Phalen down and back several meters at it roared it's displeasure with the human having rammed straight into it.

"Doopid Hu-mon! No see where yuu go?!"

Phalen tried shaking the stars from his eyes and head as he tried to get back onto his feet.

Too late.

The Whiphid was on him, his snarling and sloppy tusked head jerked back in forth with anger.

"I believe they make a pill for that," Phalen smarted as he tried to maneuver out of the Whiphid's reach, it was just to big, fast and powerful. And He still was still seeing constellations.

He stole a look beyond, before his view was completely taken up by the hairy and smelly Whiphid.

Jerriko was long gone.

The Whiphid reached down to grab Phalen by the legs. He had managed to kick on leg loose and wriggled to be rid of the Whiphid's grip as he was lifted up off the ground non to ceremoniously.

"Look pal," Phalen said as the Whiphid set to jerking him about with one leg in its grasp. "Just put me down, walk away and we can just forget this whole mess, eh?"

"Me no just fargit, bot me put yuu down!" he snarled with spittled as he flung Phalen back to the ground.

Phalen went flying at an angle, enough of so that he was able to pivot in the air and use the moment to help turn him around and maintain some resemblance of a controlled landing. He skidded to both feet and rolled out of the way of the charging monster.

Finding himself under the wing span of a shuttle, Phalen continued his roll under and to the other side of the ship, quickly rose to his feet and sprinted off toward the door.

And that was when everyone in that particular docking bay of Drogen station decided they needed to be in his way, while charging and raged Whiphid snarled and closed in from behind...

---

"Arrival of Sorts"
By: Oriana Zareena

Location: Hotel - Yuarteira, New Plouton
Date: Vadris 17, 4 ABY

***

Oriana let out a heavy sigh as she entered what was to be her new stay on this planet, or so she thought. Located in the district of Yuarteira, it was a beautiful hotel, with large windows, beaches and attractions. What more could she possibly want? Her gray eyes glanced over the room. Its lavishness disgusted her.

"Will you be needing anything else?" a droid who had escorted her to her room asked.

Oriana waved him away with her hand. "No, this is perfect. Thank you," she lied and watched as he went out the doorway. She made sure it promptly closed behind him before she began her rant to her own protocol droid, whom she had affectionately named 'Guy' in jest. "This is ridiculous!" she yelled, going to the window. "How am I supposed to be learning anything? What sort of pilgrimage is this? I don't have much time left before I must return to Falleen and what do I have to show for my travels? Yes, I have explored all right; all the finest establishments the galaxy has to offer me. Oh, my parents certainly fixed this quite lovely."

Oriana shook her head in dismay. Yes, her travels had started out lovely. She had enjoyed her visits to the planets very much...well, that was until she realized what was going on. Oriana was from a noble family on the planet of Falleen. Her parents had agreed to let her go on this pilgrimage (which was a custom voyage for all elite youth to learn about the galaxy before returning to Falleen) only if they could choose her destinations. Of course, in the prison of her home, Oriana had readily agreed. Anything to get her out of there! She had envisioned going on this trip for quite some time and would not be deterred from her goal. Aside from that, by letting them set the course, she could avoid unwanted trouble. They had certainly pulled the wool over her eyes all right.

During one visit this past year to a particularly extravagant city, Oriana had gotten the usual treatment. She was given guided tours, set agendas... it was all too familiar. Up on venturing out on her own one day, ignoring her schedule, she wandered to a foreign part of the city and saw some things she had never seen before in her short existence. Before she could really make sense of things, Guy showed up and they left the planet promptly the next morning. It was all too strange. This time Oriana wasn't going to waste her time, that of which was quickly running out.

That reminded her of another sour topic. Zafier, her fiancé. She had hoped that during this trip she would think of a plan to avoid the arranged marriage but thus far, she had failed to do so. She knew it was her duty to follow through with the marriage but somehow, she had truly believed she could find a loophole, something, to get her out of the obligation. Why he was so determined on marrying her, Oriana wasn't sure, and it scared her. On her home planet, she was considered quite ugly to her fellow kind. Her features were too soft and rounded, not striking and bold like most of the Falleen. She appeared far too human to their liking.

The exotic reptilian humanoid continued to look out of the window. Her skin, naturally a light gray-green color leaning more towards the grayish tone, was a now a very solemn pure grey. As was common to her species, it changed color with her emotions, particularly the more stronger ones she felt. Taking off the brown hooded cape she wore, revealed was a spiny sharp ridge that extended down the center of her back for she wore a backless shirt, as she normally did because of this feature.

Tucking a loose strand of brown hair behind her forked pierced ears, her claw-like fingers brushed past several small beads she had adorned her locks with. She noticed is seemed more common to the other female humanoids she had seen to wear their hair braids...perhaps she would try that. Her delicately arched eyebrows frowned slightly, realizing she had not the slightest idea had to go about doing that.

Her scowl faded away, remembering her original intention. This planet would be different than the others she had vested, she would make sure. She got the impression that her parents had been somehow manipulating this entire voyage of hers. Everything about it came in modesty, was controlled and rarely surprised Oriana. How had she been so naive? She realized nothing unexpected had ever happened. Nothing exciting. She would not tolerate it any more. She would do what she wanted here. "Guy?" her soft voice called to the protocol droid.

"Yes, Master Oriana?" he inquired.

"Please terminate the prearranged plans set for this planet. I shall be...improvising this time around. I thought it would be a nice change," Oriana told him in the mysterious manner that was so common to Falleen.

"Terminate? But Master Oriana, your parents would not be pleased to find out--" Guy began but was cut off.

"My parents are very very far away. There will be no more discussion of this. I have made up my mind," Oriana said firmly.

Little did she know, before Guy had departed from Falleen with Oriana, he had been programmed to send weekly reports of Oriana's doings and had been doing so since she had left. They had controlled all of her actions very carefully through the droid. Indeed, Oriana's parents would not be pleased when this news reached them...

***

That night, in the privacy of her sleeping quarters, Oriana set out a plan. She knew very little about this planet. Well, there was what she had been told about it but she was seriously beginning to doubt the validity of her sources. The galaxy couldn't all be great, could it? If the Falleen civilization was supposed to be so superior, than thus far, this voyage had only disproved that theory. She sighed, having come to a crossroad.

Instead of reinforcing her allegiance to her planet and culture as it was supposed to, this voyage was, on the contrary, deteriorating it. It disheartened her. She had always firmly believed in the Falleen superiority in the galaxy, as she had been faithfully taught. Her curiosity was perhaps at the root of this. Curiosity was an almost sinful characteristic and she was beginning to understand why.

Oriana quickly got prepared to go to sleep. Climbing into the soft bed, however, she discovered some hours later that she would not be sleeping tonight. She had too much on her mind to think about. What would she, after all, do tomorrow if she didn't follow the schedule?

Whatever she wanted, she decided finally in the early hours of the morning. She felt a new, previously inexperienced feeling of freedom. She really didn't have to do anything, as long as she was not on her home planet. There, her parents ruled her life with an iron fist. Here, however, she could go and do as she pleased. Why did they have to know? When they contacted her, she would simply play dumb and lie and act as if everything was going as they had hoped. Yes, that is what she would do.

Oriana's eyelids finally closed and the young woman drifted off to an uneventful sleep. The real test would come tomorrow.

---