"Light Amidst Darkness, Part 1"
by Zion "The Worm" Xandler - Systems Operator
and Raeila Mullerin - Entrepreneur

Location: Thanatos; New Plouton, Tae'Karada
Date: Niothe 18, 4 ABY

***

He parked his swoop outside the bar and clicked his security for it. Should someone try to take it from him, it would blow itself to oblivion. He entered the bar first to get something to drink.

Dressed mainly in black with his hair painted in vivid red and wearing a long trenchcoat he sat at the bar and ordered his drink. It was only by then that he noticed the girl sitting next to him.

"Hey there..." he said, finding the girl to be quite attractive. "What's your name, sugar? I must say I did not expect to find a desert rose here in Thanatos."

She turned her head towards the man, and quickly looked behind her to make certain he was in fact addressing her. The sight of him made her desperately hope she wasn't the object of his desire. She smiled helplessly at the patron on her right, and unless the eccentric newcomer was interested in Rodian's, she had a sickening feeling that his tasteless pick-up line was meant for her.

Turning in her chair to face the red-haired man again, she replaced her frown with a sultry smile. It had been a slow day and perhaps she could make a good sum of creds with this strange fellow. "The name's Raeila." She extended her hand to him. "And I can be a rose if you want me to be, but I think it's far more fun being a prickly cactus. They're more dangerous, don't you think?"

"Indeed..." He grinned. "As long as you don't sting me, gorgeous!" By then the barman delivered his drink and he sipped it. "So Raeila, what does a girl like you do in the desert?"

"Anyone with the creds to pay." She signalled the bartender and with a nod, he refilled her glass. "You're not Kir'Thanan, are you?" Her eyes skimmed over the man's interesting choice of attire and stopped at his garish, red hair. "Get yourself killed, dressing like that. The gangers don't like outsiders."

"Well, outsiders can be dangerous too..." he shot back coolly, even though it was not true in his case. He then grinned. "You know, I could use a masseuse and who knows whatever may come from there. Fuckin' hot here in the desert!"

Raeila chuckled and shook her head. "What'd you expect? There's no water around for hundreds of kilometers and the sun beats down on the place 336 days of our 336 day year." She glanced sidelong at the man and grinned slowly. "And as for a masseuse... it's not what I usually do, but if that's what you're into, sure." She swivelled towards him in her chair and ran her eyes over the entire length of him. "Although...if you are wetter, I'd have to charge you a lot more. See, I don't usually allow wetter customers, but you seem like a nice enough guy so I'm willing to make an exception."

"Honey, you would soon find that money would not be a problem and that I am a man of business. And quite a generous one when I get what I want." Zion chuckled as he looked at Raeila from top to bottom and thought to himself how beautiful she was. "So, you got your own place or do I have to find us one?"

"See, how I work is you pay for the place and for the services. The rest," she added with a sultry smile, "I'll take care of - twice if you like, but that'll cost extra."

"You ready then? I expect you to at least know a place to go to..." he told her with a smile as he placed enough credits to pay for his drink and hers.

Raeila hopped off her stool and slipped her arm through the man's. "Don't worry...I'll take good care of you." She brushed her hand along his arm as she led him out into the desert. "You still haven't told me your name. Not that it really matters, but some men like it when I call out their names during the act."

"Zion... So, Raeila, where is this place then? Nearby or do we ride there. I got my swoop outside, so if we need to go somewhere far that's no problem."

"In a hurry, I see." Raeila laughed and diverted Zion towards a narrow alleyway. "This is a short cut."

Seeing as he wasn't interested in small talk and was anxious to get down to the purpose of their day's encounter, Raeila took the fastest route to the Paxon Motel. The desk clerk knew her by name and face, and always reserved her the same room to entertain her guests in. He gave her a nod and reached under the counter for the keycard. Raeila patted Zion's arm then held out her upturned hand to him. "We have to pay for the room up front. Don't worry, it's already included in the price."

Zion looked around. It wasn't near his standards of comfort. He turned to Raeila and smiled. "Tell you what. Let's cut a deal here. What would it take to get you to come with me to New Plouton? Name the price. You come with me, spend overnight and I'll take you back in the morning." He then turned back to the clerk. "No offense pal..."

Raeila laughed shrewdly and thought for certain Zion was insane. "Me visit the wetlands? I seriously doubt you could afford that."

"Look, if you don't wanna go its okay..." he said with a raised hand. "The deal's up to you. Just name the price. One night with me and I promise to have you back here by morning. Waddya say, Raeila?"

The money was tempting, but that alone wouldn't have normally been enough to persuade her into stepping on wetter soil. It was the prospect of running into Kael that piqued her interest. It was impulsive and capricious, and she had no idea where to even start looking for him, but she'd an intense need to be with him, and waiting for her next birthday was not a very pleasing option. "Well, Zion," she said with a grin, "looks like you have yourself a deal."

"Great!" He smiled. "You won't regret this, babe!" he said. He then placed his arm around her and walked back outside, waving a hand to the clerk. "Maybe next time, ambra..."

They walked up to his swoop, which, of course was still there since he had not heard an explosion. He deactivated the security self-destruct and they both mounted it. "Hold on now. Don't want you to fall down and get hurt or somethin'..." He smiled just before they set off.

While on the way he turned his head ever so slightly to talk to Raeila. "Hey, do you like clubbing? I know this great place called Trancemania! Wanna go? My treat, of course!"

"This isn't a date, Zion," Raeila shouted over the sound of the swoop's thrusters and the wind howling past them. She kept her one arm tightly around his waist while her other snaked down towards his crotch. She cupped her hand over his groin and squeezed gently. "This is what I do, got it? Now, if a date's what you want, that's really gonna cost extra."

He had to grin. "Man, you horny! Right to the point are we not? Ok then!" he shouted. In almost no time they got to New Plouton, after paying a considerable sum to slip past the border patrols, and from there it was a couple more minutes to Zion's place.

Raeila was in severe culture shock when they left behind the desert and entered wetter territory. There was no sand in sight, and instead of squat, crumbling buildings reverting to the formless sediment from which they were constructed, majestic, daunting skyscrapers lined the streets, which themselves were absolutely foreign to Raeila in their compartmentalization. There appeared to be areas distinctly for walking, and those for vehicles, unlike in Thanatos where pedestrians and motorists often travelled wherever they chose.

The most odd thing to Raeila was the women. The majority of them wore gowns made of transparent material, beneath which they were either naked or wore only a garment to conceal their crotch and rear. Despite being degrading, Raeila knew any woman wearing one of those in the desert would be scorched by the intense heat or just begging to become prey to some horny ganger. Another thing she couldn't help noticing was how cold it had suddenly gotten and for once, she yearned for the heat of the desert.

The ride lasted long enough for Raeila to adjust to the landscape of New Plouton, as alien and strange as it was, and Zion halted the swoop in front of a building that was absolutely lavish by her standards. He escorted her up to his room, and as they entered, the lights turned on. The apartment was well furnished, with a modern stylish look about it, and it was easy to see it was costly.

Zion tossed his coat onto the couch and took Raeila's hand as he took her to his room, where an oversized bed was at the center and a Music Hi-Fi set in a corner. The rest was empty except for a monitor and a small padd on a wall. Zion laid on the bed and waited to see what the girl did.

"Nice place." Raeila pulled off her cloak as she made a circuit of the room. "What do you do for a living, Zion? From the looks of it, it's either something very illegal, or you're a businessman...which are probably one and the same thing around here."

"I get important things for important people. And in return they pay me well..." he said simply. "What the law enforcement agencies do not know does not harm them..." He then looked her from top to bottom again and grinned. "You have a great body, ya know?"

Raeila chuckled silkily. "I know." She slinked over to the bed, running her hands up and down her sides, and brushing her fingers lightly against her breasts. "Now, before we start anything, I always like to get the money issue out of the way." She dropped to her knees atop the bed and slowly brought the zipper of her pants down. "If I'm sleeping over, that costs double. If you want something special, that's extra too. Now, as for the masochism stuff... I have no trouble with that, but I do the beating, got it? You don't lay a finger on me."

"Chill out, babe, I don't hit girls... So, how much for one full night, all included? You still haven't named your price..." He grinned as he sat up and placed his hands on her thighs.

"Normally, I charge--" Raeila glanced casually around the room and smiled to herself. "A hundred creds. That's just for an hour, mind you. For a full night, say...twelve hours..." She grinned and dragged her fingers along his arm. "I'm sure a smart man like you can figure it out."

"Twelve hundred credits, huh? Fine, twelve hundred it is... But I expect a full service, like I said," he told her as he ran his fingers up her body and started to take her top off.

Raeila slapped his hands away playfully. "Show me the creds first." She smiled as she crawled along and sat back on her haunches before him. "Show me," she said. She slid her hand along his thigh and deftly dipped into his pocket.

"Not there..." He smiled. "You won't find the dough there, girl." He then reached and touched the wall. A small bedside case came out. Reaching inside he took the credits. They were more than she had asked him to pay. "Here..." he said as he handed over the sum she had requested. "Now for your part of the deal..."

Raeila made a quick count of the creds, then grinned her approval and tossed them over the side of the bed for later retrieval. "As you wish, Zion." She gripped the hem of her shirt and slipped it over her head unceremoniously. She wasn't a stripper, and besides, he hadn't paid for that kind of performance. "You can touch wherever you like." She moved her hands to his pants and unfastened them, then slipped her hand inside. "Just tell me how you want it, and you got it. I give head too, in case you were wondering."

Touching her breasts he sucked on them and teased her nipples until they were hard. He then moved on top of her and slid her pants down and moved with his tongue downwards from her breasts to her clitoris which he licked and fingered at the same time. Under her moans he grinned. "Do me also, baby..."

Raeila laughed throatily and pushed Zion onto his back. She sat astraddle his waist as she grinned down at him. "Don't worry. I plan on earning my creds."

Raeila moved down the length of Zion's body - a very long one at that - spreading kisses over his chest, and peeling back his pants. Her lips brushed lightly against the tip of his erection as his pants were cleared. She laughed softly at the slight tremor that flowed through his body and to stimulate him further, she ran her tongue from the base of his shaft to its tip and wrapped her lips around it.

He moaned with pleasure as he felt it getting harder inside her mouth and her tongue working its way along, with the gushing sounds and the suckling noises. She was some of the best he'd had so far, and it became clear that she was very experienced. He ran his fingers through her hair and finally pulled her up and sucked her breasts again. "I wanna be inside you... Now..."

"Whatever you say. You're the customer, after all." Raeila climbed her way up the length of Zion's body, which still trembled with the sensations she had inspired in him. Sitting upon his waist and massaging is erection with her hand, she asked, "How do you like it? On top or on bottom? Front or back?"

"How 'bout we work it four ways... But let's start with you on top." He grinned, as he caressed her thighs and her body up to her breasts, and kissed her neck.

Raeila nodded and deftly eased Zion's erection into her. She'd performed the act so many times in her life, that her body almost lacked the characteristic reactions to the normally pleasurable stimulus. For the sake of customer service, she feigned interest and even provided moans when needed to heighten her customers' experience. She swayed against Zion and massaged his chest sensually, but at the same time, she attempted to gauge just what type of man he was, and what she needed to do to get him going. "Do you have a girl?" she asked. She licked her lips and moaned for effect.

He was breathing hard as the woman moved up and down and massaged his chest, while he let himself fall down and enjoy the immense pleasure and massaged her breasts in turn. Looking at her he replied, "No... No girl in my life. Not at the present time... Although I'd love to have a girl as hot as you!" he said as they changed positions, becoming him on top now and thrusting in and out of her.

Raeila kneaded his back gently and wound her legs around his waist. "Sorry. You'll have to find someone who's not already engaged." Raeila brought her left hand up into view and shook it to indicate the bracelet dangling from her wrist. "But that doesn't mean we can't have a whole night together, you and I."

She groaned and hastened her breathing to add to the ruse, and arched her back from the bed to make him believe he was doing a fine job and, in the process, secure his male pride and virility. After all, he deserved a good time, for it wasn't his fault she detached herself from the act and refused to feel anything. "Why do you need a prostitute anyway?" she asked breathlessly. "I mean...you look capable of picking up a chick in some club for a one nighter."

"I can and I have, but I wanted to know what it was like with a pro..." He grinned as small spasms of pleasure came over him. "Regular girls tend to want more afterwards, and I'm not into relationships!" He then made her stop and slid out of her, turning her slowly and pumping back into her from behind now.

Raeila stifled a weary sigh, but since it would only add variety to her usual routine she vocalized it anyway, and combined with a whimper, it almost sounded as if she was enjoying herself. "I don't mind relationships," Raeila said as she massaged Zion's thigh. "I love my fiancé." A moan here, a gentle cry there. "And I don't worry about him getting bored of the sex. I tend to make things interesting." She rocked her hips back and forth to meet Zion's thrusts, and winced at one point as he began getting enthusiastic about his work. She decided, then, not to mention her other hole was open for use as well.

As she rocked, the pleasure came to a point where he could not bear it anymore and was ready to burst it all out. He moaned as the pleasure came over him in waves of ecstasy. Pulling back from behind her he exploded over her backside. "Ohh baby, you the best!" he moaned.

Raeila arched her back and cried out to augment Zion's experience...and intensify his orgasm so he'd be too worn to go at it again for a while. She emitted a deep, long groan to mimick the end of her own orgasm, then rolled over onto her back and writhed gently on the bed. "Very nice," she commented with a sultry smile. "I hope I've earned my creds."

"You have..." he said giving her a long kiss on the lips and rolling his tongue with hers. "I'll go and have a shower. Feel free to join me if you want Rae!" He grinned as he entered the side door in the far wall where a large shower and a jacuzzi pool were set with mirrored walls all around.

"Well, I can't go back to the desert all caked in wetter cum." Raeila grinned and rolled off the bed. She didn't know one Kir'Thana who would pass up a free bath, even though one wouldn't dare waste good drinking water by cleaning their body in it.

She stepped into the refresher, which was larger than the entire Feltrey dwelling, and looked around in awe. "This is your refresher? I've...never seen one before." Raeila laughed and ran her hands over the marbled sink and ornamented fixtures. She stopped before one of the many mirrors and stared at her reflection in silence and wonderment. She reached out her hand and touched the image of her face on the mirror's surface. "I look like that? I...I haven't seen myself in a mirror... forever. Do I really look like that?"

He came out and placed his arms around her. "Yeah, you look like that. You look great! Why did you think I liked you in the first place?!" he smiled. He could tell that she was amazed by the mirror. "If you want I can give you a portable mirror. Or you can always come back here with me..." He grinned.

"I'm a Kir'Thana," Raeila explained. "I belong in the desert. If you want me to make you a regular customer...then help me with something." She shifted around in Zion's embrace and gazed up at him. "I agreed to come here tonight because...I was hoping to run into someone who lives here. Now...if you can help me find him, I'll consider making this a regular thing."

Zion laughed. "Well, honey, now you're asking me to get you information for free? It would be all too easy to get infomation, as long as there's info about him in a database. But normally I get paid for these kind of things. Well paid!" he told her. He let her go and walked to the shower. "Tell you what... For you, first time only, I'll grant it free of charge and you'll owe me a favour. How 'bout that?!" he said amidst the sound of the cool water.

Coming back out, he smiled. "Here, take a long jacuzzi and relax. By the time you're done I'll have the info ready," he told her. "And Raelia, no one belongs in some place unless he or she wants to. I could make you live like myself. You could make yourself live like I do! It's all a question of how badly you want it... Now, what's this lucky bastard's name?"

Raeila walked towards the jacuzzi and stared down into the churning, steaming water within. She hesitantly dipped her foot into the clear liquid, and the soothing warmth it met with sent a shiver through her body and forced a moan from her lips. "I could live like this...but you just don't understand how it is, Zion." She carefully slid into the swirling water and closed her eyes as the rippling waves lapped at her naked form. "Once a Kir'Thana, always a Kir'Thana. To leave the desert behind is the biggest betrayal. I bet if they knew I was here now, they'd have me shunned and driven out." Her head rested against the padded edge of the jacuzzi and she sighed deeply. "The lucky bastard's name is Kael Selrid. He lives in some Temple place. I'm not sure how much luck you'll have finding him. He's Kir'Thana too and...I doubt he's left a trail for himself in the wetlands. If you find him, you'll be compensated. We can discuss the particulars if and when you find him. Deal?"

With a nod Zion left the bathroom. It was merely about fifteen minutes until he came back into the bathroom with a padd in his hand. "Kael Selrid, born in Thanatos. Father, Quaran Selrid, and mother, Anea Selrid. Both were killed 15 years ago, on Praeda 24. Since then he was involved with gangs and two years ago took leadership of the Feltreys gang. His current wereabouts are unknown..."

Raeila sat up among the swirling waters surrounding her and frowned quizzically. The first thought that crossed her mind was how she could smuggle one of those padds away with her; her second thought was, "But...it doesn't say where he is now? I need to find him. It's...it's important to me."

"Tell you what, I may know a way to find him. But we'll have to wait for the morning. In the morning I'll take you to breakfast and we'll find this Kael Selrid," he said. "Now, I'm pretty tired, so why don't we get some sleep?"

Raeila chuckled and cocked an eyebrow at Zion. "Just sleep?" She rose from the pool of water, and turned her dripping, glistening body towards him. "Are you sure you don't want me to work for my 1200 creds?"

"Well, if you feel up to it..." He grinned as he took her hand. "I thought you'd be tired, but hell, kitty cat, if you feel ready..." he said as he unfastened his robe and entered the jacuzzi across from her.

Raeila met Zion at the centre of the jacuzzi and spread kisses upon his chest. "Tomorrow then," she said. "And I won't even charge you for the extra time."

Zion kissed her back and lifted her body, pulling her forward as he thrust into her once more. "You won't regret it, I promise..."

They kept at it for another two rounds until, finally spent, Zion went to sleep back in the room with his arms wrapped around Raeila.

---

"Training Session"
by Quinlan Vos - Jedi Master
Alisson Blair - Jedi Knight
Laedra Vorrel - Jedi Knight
and Kael Selrid - Jedi Padawan

Location: Jedi Temple
Date: Niothe 18, 4 ABY

***

It was early in the morning. He kneeled down and opened a small box. Inside, three metallic coloured spheres rested still. With a single touch, they rose into the air and began twisting and turning fast into different directions.

Quinlan rose to his feet and ignited his lightsaber. Grabbing it firmly he held it straight and focused. Soon a raid of small laser bolts began pouring out of the three spheres and he moved his weapon quickly enough to defend from the bolts, even though they were pouring down faster and faster.

At a sudden point Quinlan let go of his lightsaber and kneeled, letting his arms cross ahead of him and his palms open, eyes closed. His lightsaber moved fast and alone, being guided by Quinlan's mind. It rolled fast above him, deflecting everything that came his way. After a few seconds he extended his arm and got hold of his weapon once more, grabbing it with the blade inverted. He deflected a couple more shots and finally safeguarded the blade. At that same instance the spheres stopped.

Looking over his shoulder, Quinlan could see Laedra and Kael. "Good morning!" he smiled. "Come to have some practice?" he asked as he made his way over to them. Vos bowed at Laedra and then at Kael. "You must be Padawan Selrid. I am Master Quinlan Vos. An honour to make your acquaintance."

Kael turned to face the Jedi Master and bowed. "It is good to meet you, Master Vos," he said. "We were coming here so Master Laedra could help me to keep my focus while using a lightsaber."

"I am sure she will teach you well." Quinlan smiled as he looked at Laedra. He was curious about the teaching methods they were implying on other students. He knew Alisson and Aurra were taught by Kal'Aran which meant in the old methods, but what about Laedra's ways? But he meant no trespassing of their space. "I shall leave the room for you then" he smiled.

At that point a woman approached. Dressed in a grey robe with black pants and high boots, she smiled and nodded at Quinlan as she approached them with her dual lightsaber in her hand. "Good morning, Master. I see the training room has become popular!"

"Indeed..." Master Vos said, returning the smile. "May I present Laedra Vorrel and Padawan Selrid. This is Alisson Blair. She was former Padawan to Master Kal'Aran..." he said.

"Good morning. A pleasure to meet you both." Alisson bowed.

Kael glanced at the lightsaber in Alisson's hand and frowned. He pushed the thoughts of the weapon away and turned his face up to smile at her. "It is good to meet you, Alisson Blair," he said.

"Yes," Laedra added with a smile. "It is good to see all the space this Temple provides being put to use." Her eyes flickered towards the lightsaber as well, but she would not approach the subject while all were still present in the room.

Alisson nodded in thanks. "The Temple is quite the beautiful place... And the Force is strong here. It is a good place to learn."

"Indeed!" Vos concurred. "Laedra and Kael were about to begin their training. I was just leaving the room for them to use," he said as he turned to Laedra and Kael. "I will occupy your time no more..." he bowed.

Alisson turned to face the other woman as well. "Would you mind much if I stayed aside and meditated a bit? I don't want to interfere, so I will comprehend fully if you desire more privacy."

Laedra looked to Kael, then back to Alisson with a smile. "I don't think that would be disruptive at all. You may stay if you wish, Alisson. In fact, there are some things I would like to discuss with you after you have completed your meditation, if you don't mind."

"I thank you for your kindness." Alisson bowed. "And I would be honoured to speak to you afterwards."

"If you will excuse me, I will be leaving you alone then," Vos said with a smile and left.

Alisson sat in a corner and placed her lightsaber next to her. Placing her hands folded in her lap she closed her eyes and breathed deep. She could feel the Force currents. She focused on them and nothing else as she freed herself from the pain of Kalaira's death and all the other negative things that had happened in such little time.

"Alright, Kael," Laedra said gently, "I think you could do with a little meditation to wind yourself down. Have a seat." Laedra folded her legs and settled to the ground. "Anything in particular you would like us to focus on?"

***

Alisson got up as she could tell that their training session had ended already. She walked over to Laedra and bowed one more time, still holding her lightsaber in her right hand. "You said you wanted to talk to me?"

Laedra straightened out her robes once she was standing. "Kael...you've done well today." She bowed to him dismissively then turned to Alisson. "Yes, Alisson, just a small discussion if you have time. Nothing too serious, but I ask you to indulge me for a moment, if you will."

"Very well..." Alisson nodded with a warm smile. "What was it you wanted to ask of me?"

Laedra gestured for Alisson to join her on the bench, which she did as Kael moved away to another section of the training area for meditation. "You were Master Kal'Aran's Padawan, correct?" Laedra asked, beginning with a less contentious topic first. "How long did he train you?"

"I believe I was four at the time..." she said trying to remember it correctly. "My parents had died and I was being taken care of by the Royal Family. Master Kal'Aran went there one day and we met. He was given permission to train me... I was very young but he was always so very kind and calm. Like a father to me I guess," she smiled. "Why do you ask?"

"Merely interest," Laedra replied with a shrug. "I'm also interested in whether you'll be helping in training the Padawans. I know there are many Masters and not very many Padawans, but I'm certain you can aid in some of the group training sessions we have here."

"I would be glad to aid you in anything I can..." Alisson nodded. "I'm afraid I still don't know the Padawans, but I would be glad to teach them all I have to offer as a teacher. Physicals and lightsaber would be my best trained areas," she admitted.

Laedra repressed a satisfied smile as the topic shifted conveniently in her favour. "Alisson...now that you are in the Temple, will you perhaps be exchanging your weapon for a standard Jedi lightsaber?"

Alisson frowned. She had noticed the look on Kael's face before but she had never considered exchanging her weapon. "I wasn't planning to do so..." she said truthfully. "This is the weapon I was taught in mostly and the one I wield the best. I know it's not the Jedi lightsaber but it has served me well over the years and even Master Kal'Aran taught me how to use it... Is this an issue?"

Laedra concealed her disapproval with a tight smile. "Such a weapon is inappropriate in what it represents. It is a Sith tool used to dispense their own twisted brand of justice for wrongs they believe committed by our Order. The presence of such a weapon in the hands of a Jedi is a sacrilege, especially in the walls of this Temple. I cannot force you to abandon that weapon. Only the Council can do such a thing. But...it presents a bad example to the students to see a Knight using such an instrument."

Alisson sighed. "It is still a lightsaber, and I can use it as a regular one-bladed weapon or with both ends at once. Overall it is still the same weapon, and I did get the crystals from Ilum. It is not sacrilege or I believe Master Kal'Aran would have prevented me from making one. I do not wish to abandon it, but I can refrain from using it in the Temple and make my own regular lightsaber. Would that please you more?"

"This is not for my satisfaction, Alisson. We must do everything we can to distinguish the Jedi from Palpatine and his dark ways. By brandishing such a weapon, we blur that line between the Jedi and the Sith." Laedra sighed. "I cannot make you do anything, Alisson. I am merely asking you to consider using the traditional Jedi lightsaber."

"I know I am not being obligated here, and I respect your point of view, although personally I don't agree with it. However, I can understand what you're saying and therefore I will refrain from using my weapon in the Temple," she said. "But I will be keeping it as my weapon still... Don't worry, I will make a regular lightsaber for myself as soon as possible."

Laedra nodded stiffly then rose from the bench. "As you wish, Alisson. I imagine that will have to be another topic the Council must review. It is a good thing you brought it to my attention, although I've no doubt it was unintentional. At any rate and despite everything, it is good that you have joined us, Alisson."

"Yours is a weapon of violence and aggression," a voice behind them said. As they turned, Kael stood calmly to the side watching. "A single blade is sufficient for a Jedi's needs. A double-blade's only purpose is offensive. The mobility of the weapon is limited and with both blades ignited, you will not have the defensive capabilities. Therefore, you wield a weapon of aggression and violence, a symbol of the Sith and all their darkness." He crossed his arms over his chest and frowned, clear distaste showing in the expression. "Master Kal'Aran was wrong to allow you the use of such a weapon."

Alisson turned around to face Kael. "Any weapon may be wielded in an offensive or defensive way, Kael. And I did learn to use but one single blade as well as both. In any case, let me teach you one theoretical lesson that any strategist knows: sometimes the best defense is offense. Now, I have never used my weapon or skills to strike upon someone without being attacked first. So perhaps your judgement is much too superficial, for you know not all the facts," she said turning around to face Laedra again. "And as for your eloquent way of warning me about the matter being brought to the Jedi Council, allow me to repeat myself: I will be using a Jedi Lightsaber." She bowed. "Now, is there any other thing you would like to discuss?"

Laedra smiled at Alisson almost smugly and shook her head. "That is all. I hope we have not offended you, Alisson. We were merely raising a concern - a valid concern, I think." She bowed in return. "Welcome to the Temple, Alisson Blair."

"Thank you." Alisson nodded gently as she started to walk away. She hadn't considered her weapon as such a vile thing and she knew it wasn't. Still, she didn't want to raise conflicts. As she was walking away she turned back and smiled. "Padawan Selrid, I couldn't help noticing that you have good reflexes but I know some exercises you could use to better yourself. Maybe we can train together sometime..."

"Thank you," Kael said with a bow. "I would be honoured to train with you, Alisson Blair."

Alisson nodded and turned once more to head out of the Temple. She had to make a trip to Ilum and get some crystals to make her new lightsaber. She didn't like the thought of it but it was time to stop using her double ended weapon. "It's all for the best..." she told herself.

---

"Deciphering The Past, Part 1"
By: Laedra Vorrel
Koran Darr
Dani
Nieme Yaresh-Selrid

Location: Jedi Temple
Date: Niothe 18, 4 ABY

***

The holorecorder beeped as it registered and stored the next set of data in its memory bank. The series of glyphs inscribed upon the surface of every wall within the chapel astonished Laedra. The language was unfamiliar to her, but she had yet to delve into a very intensive study of it. Even so, it appeared to be like nothing she'd ever seen before.

It wasn't a large room, but the arched ceiling was vast in height and the faceted windows arranged around the circumference of the dome rained so much light down into the room that the achieved effect was one of standing in the midst of a grand hall, much like the ones she'd read existed in the original Jedi academy on Coruscant. It was a mystical place, and there were times when it seemed almost uncannily so, which was why she once again paused in her work and passed her gaze about the room, searching for the eyes she felt upon her back. They were nowhere, yet they were everywhere; the presence she sensed was all encompassing and almost oppressive, but it became somewhat calming after she overcame her initial anxiety. There were spirits within this Temple, and in this chapel, that much she knew. But whose? Laedra hoped once she'd deciphered the glyphs, they would give her some clue as to who had built this sanctuary, and whose essence now dwelled within.

Laedra moved onto the next wall and raised the holorecorder to scan the series of inscriptions upon it. The presence she felt was back, but stronger and different. She knew turning around would only waste time, for she would find no one standing there. The compulsion was overwhelming, however, and Laedra momentarily glanced back. A shape caught the corner of her eye, and Laedra whirled around with a sharp gasp towards the figure standing in the doorway. She closed her eyes and sighed deeply, then laughed at her own foolishness. "Master Koran Darr. I hadn't expected anyone to be up here."

"I sensed your presence here," Koran said with a smile, "and so I thought I would come up to check in with you. I had a feeling you would be researching." He opened his hands wide and nodded. "I am at your disposal."

Laedra smiled and gestured Koran into the room. "The walls are filled with inscriptions," she began, turning back to the one before her. "It's in a language I don't recognize, but I'm hoping to compare it with known languages and look for some similarities with those that can perhaps aid me in decrypting it."

Koran nodded as he stepped up to a section of the wall Laedra had already scanned. "The written form is similar to some I've seen, but I don't recognize any of the words. Once you have a thorough sample, a comparative study of other similar languages should be fairly easy. The difficulty will be having a large enough base from which to compare these inscriptions." He peered closer, and then frowned. He took a couple steps back near the door and nodded. "As I thought. While it doesn't help us yet, this phrase here tends to repeat." He looked at Laedra and laughed. "I imagine only time will reveal its significance."

"Perhaps we could try and decipher it together, Master Darr. I must admit, as much as I enjoy research, having someone there to collaborate with will make the task seem less daunting than it does now."

"I have always found that working in a group tends to bring a much wider range of viewpoints," he said. "And, so many unique minds focusing on a single problem will usually find their way through the problem." He smiled. "So, to solve the mystery of this Temple, I will gladly assist you with your research, Laedra. I have been looking forward to this since my arrival."

Laedra turned from the wall and regarded Koran across the distance that now separated them. "I admit, I have not had time to converse or associate with you, Master Darr. I truly would like to, and I believe this would be a good opportunity to do so." Laedra stepped down from the small elevation she'd been standing upon and approached Koran. "I can ask Liam if he will take us into the city. You and I can find a library and use their resources to study language databases that may help us uncover the first part of the mystery or perhaps even solve it altogether. For now, though, would you care to review these holorecordings with me?"

"Certainly," Koran said as he stepped closer to the holorecorder. "I'm still getting used to this new time and place. So much has changed. It's nice to be able to focus my attentions away from the nature of the universe and the future of the Jedi Order."

"And from the intense buzz of activity around here lately. So much has gone on that it is nice to find a peaceful place such as this and just do something not related to all the excitement down there." Laedra looked around the room for a moment, then smiled at Koran and moved towards one corner filled with a spray of soft, warm sunlight. "Come. We should be comfortable here for a while." Laedra settled to the floor with her back to a wall.

Koran moved next to Laedra and settled himself to the floor at her side. He looked at the datapads she had in her hands and nodded. "Looks like you've been in here for awhile."

"Some thoughts were troubling me and I needed some solitude," she replied. "This seemed the best place for it, and collecting data also seemed a perfect way to divert my thoughts."

Koran nodded. "It definitely is a good place for a diversion," he said. "Would you like to talk about your troubling thoughts?"

Laedra smiled blandly and began the playback on the recorder. "I think it'd only trouble you as well to hear them, Master Darr. They are thoughts Jedi of my rank should not have."

Koran nodded and then laughed softly. "I hardly think my ignorance of the problem will trouble me less than knowing that trouble exists at all."

"It's not so much trouble, Master Darr, as it is...confusion and--" Laedra shook her head and drew her knees up towards her protectively. "It isn't right to have such thoughts, I know. I am working to eradicate them, rest assured."

Koran shifted to more fully face her. "Sometimes it is difficult to banish thoughts because of the temptation they present," he said. "However, it is best to not fight against the thoughts, but to open yourself to the Force and meditate on the answers. The Force will provide the answers if you allow yourself the openness required for such meditation."

"Liam Zaneth is helping me with that," Laedra stated. "We have been meditating together and he is helping me search for my purpose and a means of dedicating myself fully to the Force and the Order. I have been doubting my legitimacy as a Jedi lately, but I know it is a path I wish to continue following." She smiled uncomfortably and pulled her knees closer. "I hope this is not too disconcerting for you, Master Darr."

"The path of a Jedi is not an easy path to follow, especially now that I've been reading some of the last thirty years' history. It is not uncommon for a Jedi to have a crisis of faith and doubt her choices. I imagine it is doubly difficult for one trained in an unconventional manner. Before the dark times, all Jedi were trained at the Jedi Temple. While in hiding, I imagine some corners required cutting. You are a fine woman, and a strong Jedi. I have no doubts that you will see yourself through this difficult time, and thus, I do not feel disconcerted."

Laedra grinned awkwardly and finally looked up to meet Koran's gaze. "And you're a fine mentor, Master Darr. I thank you for understanding and for your concern. I believe I will soon overcome this small crisis and become firm and confident in my position as a Jedi Knight." She sobered her expression and cleared her throat as she gestured Koran to move beside her. "The glyphs... Now this is a problem that will require deep meditation."

Koran slid next to Laedra and looked over at the displayed holographic images of the inscriptions covering the walls. "It is indeed a unique language." He smiled and glanced at her. "It'd be very tempting to haul a 3PO unit in here to take a look at these. But that would feel like cheating, wouldn't it?"

Laedra laughed as she nodded her head. "And far less exciting. It's far more fulfilling coming to the answer on your own." She enhanced the image on the display until the inscriptions were enlarged enough that they became discernable without having to squint. "You're right, Master Darr. There does seem to be many repetitive glyphs, and even some that appear together frequently. Perhaps they are associated with one another. Still...we don't even know how the text is to be read, let alone what it all means. For now, I think we should look for more of these patterns until we can get to a language database and make a comparative study."

"A good idea," Koran said. "Let's start with this segment here since it's already magnified. Do you have a spare datapad we can store our findings on?"

Laedra pushed back her robe and pulled a datapad free from the belt holding her tunic closed. "I come quite prepared." She handed it to Koran, then set the holorecorder between them and switched to projection mode. The wall segment sprang from the display and hovered freely in the air before their eyes. "So...how do you suggest we read this? Left to right? Up and down?"

"Let's start left to right," Koran said. "And, if that doesn't work, right to left. And, if that still doesn't work, we'll start top to bottom, and reverse it. I really hope they don't end up having us reading from the center outward in a spiral."

Laedra laughed and set her mind to determining what - if any - sense they could make of the presumably ancient glyphs. "You know," she said after a moment, "these could have been put here just last month for all we know and someone is trying to toy with us."

Koran laughed. "And, if they did, then that is a mystery for us to unfold as well," he said. "Now, what about this up here in the corner? I saw that over near the door as well..."

And, so it began as they began their quest to unravel the mysteries of the ancient temple hidden in the forest behind New Plouton.

***

"Perhaps after we finish this," Koran said as he raised the mug of still-steaming caf, "we should try to get into the city to further our research."

"I think that is a necessary step. We won't get very far without a historical basis to work from. I imagine their culture had a profound affect on their writing system, and perhaps by delving into that, we can make some sense of it all." Laedra thanked Orn has he laid down a plate of biscuits for them then started back into the kitchen. "Was it this peaceful in the former Jedi Temple, Koran Darr? This quiet?"

Koran looked around the dining area and then back to Laedra. "In a lot of ways, yes it was this quiet," he said. "In the training areas, it was louder, but overall it was like this. It was a place of much contemplation and thought. It is strange to not have as many people here. There's hardly a handful of us now."

"We are lucky to have that much considering..." Laedra sipped at her caf, and gazed off in contemplation at the biscuits upon the plate. "Things will never be as they were, Master Darr. This is a different time and the Order can never truly be as it was when you became a Jedi. We must work with the numbers we have, and in doing so, we must make accommodations and compromises so that we may flourish again." She cleared her throat gently and glanced at Koran. "Like...the relationship situation. Are you as adamant as Master Vos seems to be about forbidding emotional attachments?"

Koran smiled. "I would need to meditate more fully on the situation," he said. "I do not believe it would break down the Order if such was allowed. However, the original forbidding of attachments came as a means to eliminate conflicts of interest. As long as those involved are deserving of such privilege, then as long as they can maintain their duties as a Jedi, I can see making allowances."

"Deserving of such privilege?" Laedra repeated. She set down her cup of caf and laughed softly. "And who is deserving in your mind, Master Koran Darr?"

Koran smiled. "Any Jedi initially," he said. "Until it is shown that there is a conflicting interest. When the attachment outweighs the obligation to the Jedi Order, then there is a problem. In a sense, the old system assumed that none would be able to do that. However, I believe that trusting our own, and giving them the freedoms is wiser. If they fail us, then we restrict their freedoms so they can better serve the Jedi. If they fail that, then they would be expelled."

Laedra withheld her reaction and calmly picked up her cup again. "And do you believe if you banish them, they will not continue to practice the Jedi arts? I think, Master Koran Darr, that could prove to be a very dangerous course of action. Who will keep them from veering down the path of the dark side if they are without a mentor? I believe this particular issue needs further discussion among the Council."

Koran nodded slowly and took a long sip from his caf. "If a Jedi is unable to conform to the Jedi Code, then what would you have us do? They prove to be wilful and unable to follow the rules laid out by our Jedi Council. What courses of action may we pursue?"

"That is not up to me alone to decide. It is a matter for the entire council to meditate upon and ultimately resolve. But how are we to accurately determine whether a relationship is proper or harmful to a student? Take Nieme and Dani, for example. Some might not agree with the sort of relationship they are engaged in, but I doubt that Nieme would have come through her trauma as well as she had if Dani had not been by her side. If we forbid them from being together, we would be doing them more harm than if we allowed their relationship to continue." Laedra sighed. "All I am saying is that this particular issue is a delicate one. It would be easier to ban relationships altogether, but if we allow them, we will need a rigorous, fair system by which to oversee them."

"I do not believe we should get into banning the types of relationships we may get into," Koran said. "That, in my mind, is not the issue. It is taking something and raising it above one's duty to the Jedi. Let us take, for example, the case of Nieme and Dani. Let us place them in a position where Nieme must choose between her duty as a Jedi, and her love for Dani. The problem comes into play when Nieme chooses Dani over her duty. It is a delicate situation, and anyone who enters such a relationship may face it some day. However, I hope they do not. It is a delicate matter, and I believe that each situation would need to be handled as it happened. If Dani and Nieme snuck into the city together against the wishes of the Council, that is not a terrible situation. One that an hour or two of meditation in separate rooms would take care of. But, if the mission required that Dani go forward, and she turns back for Nieme and fails the mission...well, then that is a more serious situation."

Laedra scrupled to agree with Master Darr and merely sipped from her cup again. "As you said, a delicate matter, and one I am not particularly enthusiastic about confronting any time soon. But...it must be dealt with and quickly before we take on more young, attractive Padawans."

Koran laughed. "We don't really have the teaching capacity to take on more," he said. "But, the next time the council meets, it will need to be discussed. For, I have a feeling it will become important to those we do have here before long. Especially since Nieme and Dani are together, and Liam...and his wife."

Mention of that topic almost shook Laedra's composure completely, but she maintained nicely and dunked a biscuit into her tepid caf. "He is not with Yelara now, nor will he be for a long while yet, if he does decide to join her on Corellia. I do not think you have to worry about Liam."

Koran regarded Laedra for a long, uncomfortable moment before he finally smiled, and nodded. "Still, he is married," he said. "And, I do not believe the Jedi Council will want to approach and ask him to divorce his wife."

Laedra laughed knowingly. "Believe me, we have had that discussion before and he is very firm in his stance. He loves Yelara and would rather leave the Jedi Order altogether than divorce her, so if I were you, I wouldn't even bring it up to him."

"Point taken," he said with a laugh. "We will refrain from asking him to resign. So, what is your assessment of his readiness for his Trials at this point?"

"I believe Liam is quite prepared," Laedra replied. "He is quite skilled with the lightsaber and he has the mindset of a true Jedi Knight. All he needs now is the title."

Koran smiled. "Good," he said. "I will speak with Kal'Aran and Quinlan about their thoughts for a trial for Liam. If you have any suggestions, we welcome them as well. For one who has struggled back from darkness as he has, he is definitely worthy of Knighthood, and has definitely earned it."

The darkness I might just drive him back to, Laedra thought grimly. Her biscuit slipped from her fingers and submerged itself within the caf. Laedra reached in with two fingers to attempt and trap the sunken treat, but she only succeeded in breaking it into even smaller pieces. "Liam will pass," Laedra said distractedly. She finally pulled her dripping fingers from the cup and sighed plaintively at the loss of her snack.

Giggling from out in the corridor distracted Laedra from missing her biscuit too much. She turned her head to see Dani and Nieme in a half-embrace, whispering into each other's ears and stumbling into the dining hall. Nieme glanced over at the table and made eye contact with Laedra. She quickly turned her lips to Dani's ear again and soon the girls were spilling forth again with giggles and laugher.

Laedra looked to Koran with a small grin, then plunged her soaked fingers into her mouth.

Koran glanced between the three and then shook his head and laughed. He picked up a spoon resting next to his cup and handed it to Laedra. "If you really wish to retrieve it."

Laedra took the spoon graciously, then pulled her fingers from her mouth to thank Koran. "I prefer soggy biscuits anyway," she commented before setting to work in dredging up her capsized biscuit.

Nieme and Dani stood at the head of the table and managed to contain their giggles long enough to greet Master Darr. "And a good day to you too, Master Laedra Vorrel," they sang sweetly before laughing boisterously.

Laedra glanced up at the two girls, smiled uncertainly, then refocused her attention on her cup of caf.

Dani approached Laedra and offered her a quick bow. "Is there anything that Nieme and I might help you with, Master Laedra? We would really like to help you if you need our help. For anything. We could even just follow you around, and help you if you need it."

Laedra set down her spoon slowly then regarded Dani with a wary smile. "Uh...no I'm fine, Dani. Thank you for offering."

"But if you ever do need anything, Master Laedra Vorrel," Nieme added hastily, "we'd be glad to offer our services."

Laedra nodded skeptically, then looked to Koran and gave a shrug.

Koran watched the two girls wander to the other side of the room, still giggling and casting glances back over their shoulders. Finally he laughed. "So, what do you suppose that was all about?" He almost laughed again when he saw Nieme and Dani move to the far side of the table they'd chosen, and sit next to each other...with a clear view of Laedra. "I wonder what they are so interested in."

"Obviously in following me for some reason," Laedra replied. She laughed and looked up at the girls, who suddenly erupted into a fresh fit of giggles. "Is there something about my appearance that seems amusing to you, Koran Darr?"

Koran tried to look at her from a couple different angles, leaning in his chair to do so, and finally shook his head. "Nothing that I can see or sense."

"Then they must have been sniffing too many flowers," Laedra surmised with a playfully weary sigh. "Well...I think I should go to my room and meditate for an hour or so. Shall we meet again tomorrow to go over the inscriptions once more?"

Koran nodded. "That is a good plan," he said. "And, perhaps we can also get into the city tomorrow as well. I do want to compare our samples against some of the other ancient languages on file. The anticipation of unravelling the mystery of this place is thrilling. I will see you later, Laedra." With that he stood from his spot to see her off.

---

"Deciphering The Past, Part 2"
By: Laedra Vorrel
Dani
Nieme Yaresh-Selrid
Liam Zaneth

Location: Jedi Temple
Date: Niothe 18, 4 ABY

***

"Oh, Dani!" Nieme whispered as Koran and Laedra started for the door. "Should we follow her? She might be going to meet up with Liam Zaneth." Nieme covered her mouth and giggled. "Or maybe she's going with Koran Darr today."

Dani stifled a giggle with her hand and looked over at Koran Darr and Laedra, and nodded. "He is very cute," she said. "I can see where she might go with him. Either way, we should sneak after her."

"Okay...but we should wait until one or the other or both leave the room, then wait until there's some distance between us. We should be able to track her easily enough even if she gets out of sight."

"She's strong with the Force," Dani whispered. "I think we could follow her with our eyes closed and ears plugged. Of course if she happens across Liam Zaneth, I imagine they'll glow very bright in the Force. Okay, okay...we have to act like everything is normal now so they can leave."

Nieme bounced excitedly in her seat as she watched Laedra and Koran exchange bows, then Laedra depart. Nieme barely contained a squeal and glanced at Dani impatiently. "Now?"

Dani nodded vigorously before she finally said, "Yes, now. Hurry before she gets too far and we miss the good stuff!"

Nieme sprang from her seat, almost knocking it to the ground, then pulled Dani up and both rushed for the door. "Good day, Master Darr!"

"Bye," Dani called as she too zipped through the door behind Nieme. "That way," she managed to whisper...barely. "She's going that way. Can you sense Liam Zaneth that way?"

Nieme squinted her eyes and screwed her mouth into a knot before shaking her head. "Not yet, but I know wherever Laedra is, he's bound to be."

"Yes," Dani said with a slow smile spreading across her face. "I've never spied on anyone like this before. It's fun. I think we're very good at it too. She and Liam Zaneth won't suspect a thing!"

Nieme began skipping happily, but her steps fell flat. "Wait...won't they be able to detect us? They'll sense that we're near, Dani."

"Oh no! Um...well, there has to be a way to make ourselves appear smaller in the Force, less detectable. Maybe we can do that. And, then they won't know."

Nieme nodded slowly, then giggled. "I'm sure we can do it. I learned a lot from Master Jae Dyn and maybe I learned that and I just don't know it yet."

They stopped at the edge of the corridor and peeked around the corner. Laedra was making her way down the long hallway at the end of which was her room. "I don't see Liam Zaneth," Nieme whispered. "Could he already be inside?"

"Maybe he was waiting for her," Dani whispered. "They could both be in there already. Let's sneak up." She took a moment to make herself smaller in the Force, hiding herself from being spotted by Liam Zaneth or Laedra.

Nieme could feel Dani as powerfully as she always had, but she shrugged at any rate and simply figured Dani may have been detectable by her, but to someone she hadn't been intimate with, she would be completely masked. Nieme closed her eyes to try and do the same, but wasn't sure what she was supposed to do or how she was even supposed to know she was succeeding. When she opened her eyes again, they were standing outside Laedra's door. "What now?" she mouthed.

Dani pantomimed quietly opening the door and peeking inside. With a wide grin, she reached down to the latch and glanced to make sure Nieme was ready. Fortunately these weren't like the doors on a station or ship, or even a modern city, and it wouldn't slide all the way open. They only needed enough for both of them to peek inside. "Ready?" she mouthed.

Nieme covered her mouth to repress a giggle and nodded quickly. When the door opened, she expected both Liam and Laedra to be in bed, naked from head to toe. Nieme pointed to the door and urged Dani to open it quietly.

Dani grinned and silently twisted the latch, then slowly eased the door open a crack. With a stifled giggle, she leaned down and pressed her eye up against the crack, making room for Nieme as she did. That way they could both spy inside at Liam and Laedra making love and prove they were together. Dani frowned when she realized their view was blocked. She frowned even more, and then glanced up. What she saw there made her swallow hard. "Oops," she whispered.

The door swung open, flinging Dani inside and Nieme - whose hand was linked tightly to Dani's - along with her. Laedra pressed her hands firmly to her hips and shook her head slowly. "Padawans, would you mind explaining to me why you've been following me, and why you're now spying into my room? I imagine this should be very entertaining. Would you perhaps like it if we went and paid your Master, Koran Darr, a visit so he too can enjoy the joke?"

Dani looked up and stammered. Finally she managed to calm herself enough to speak, and said. "We were just...just seeing if you were in here. And...we..." She looked at Nieme and swallowed. "We thought we might find Master Liam Zaneth here too."

Laedra took in a deep breath and nodded slowly. She turned away from the two girls and made her way leisurely across the room to her window. "And...may I ask why you thought Liam Zaneth would be here, alone with me in my room?"

"Because--" Nieme bit her tongue and looked to Dani helplessly. "Uh... We thought... Well..."

"I just know that you and Liam Zaneth are close," Dani said quickly. "It's...well...I'm empathic...and I sensed that you and he were...were very good friends. And, the two of you are very good teachers, and we like seeing you together, that's all."

"And you are not implying that perhaps Liam and I are romantically involved?" Laedra turned her stern gaze upon Dani and smiled, an intimidating smile lacking in warmth or humour. "You are not implying that, are you, Dani?"

Dani stood tall and met Laedra's gaze. "If you and Liam Zaneth are in love, then why not," she said. "I felt your emotions when you came to see me when I was in the infirmary. If you feel close to each other, then why not be romantically involved?"

Laedra's smile faded and only her hard, commanding expression remained. "Jedi are not supposed to be involved in romantic relationships, Padawan. The Force must come first in all things. That you and Nieme are even allowed to be together is by sheer circumstance. The Council has not yet come to a ruling on this matter and if rumours of two Masters engaging in a romantic relationship were to become known, you can rest assured a ban would be placed upon such relations, and you and Nieme would no longer be able to share a room or your bodies. So, if I were you, Padawans, I would cease this foolishness immediately and keep your whimsical fantasies to yourselves. Is that understood?"

Dani crossed her arms over her chest and opened her senses even further, those that were of her people and those of the Force. "So are you saying that you and Liam Zaneth are not romantically involved?" she asked. "If I were to go to Master Koran Darr and speak my suspicions, would I only be spreading falsehoods?"

"Padawan, it appears to me you have not yet grasped the practice of humility when addressing your superiors," Laedra replied. "A Padawan speaks with honour and solemnity, never interrogates a Master about his or her actions, and certainly never accuses them of improprieties."

"Dani," Nieme whispered urgently. "Stop it. Let's...let's just go."

"Not just yet," Laedra interjected quickly. "I want to hear Padawan Dani's reply to that. Have you one, Padawan?"

A calm descended over Dani as she watched Laedra. "I do not remember such strictures being listed in the Jedi Code, Master Vorrel. And, if a Master is engaged in improprieties, isn't it the duty of all Jedi, from Padawan to highest Master, to seek out and correct it? While making such accusations may not be polite, sweeping them under the bed hardly is the solution." She lowered her hands to her sides, and inclined her head. "I do apologize for threatening the sanctity of your secret, my Master."

"I have no secret, Padawan." Laedra stepped back and slipped her arms into the sleeves of her robe. "You will not speak of this again or I will be forced to bring you in front of the Council for insubordination and I am certain you will be punished severely. I do not want to be forced into such an action, Padawan, so please forget this erroneous notion of yours and concentrate on your studies instead."

"And, I am certain that if you drag me before the council, they will be compelled to seek out the truth of my accusation. I am certain both you and Liam Zaneth would be met with considerable scrutiny. Every move will be watched, and every emotion will be analyzed. And, if you mask your emotions it will only make it look like you're hiding something."

Laedra sighed and shook her head gravely. "And I thought you had such potential, Padawan. I will have to speak to Master Koran Darr about your actions, then leave it up to him to decide whether your impudence deserves a punishment of his own deciding, or an interview with the Council." Laedra smiled tightly and motioned to her door. "Good day, Padawans."

Nieme narrowed her eyes at Laedra and gently nudged Dani. "Come on, Dani. Let's get out of here now."

Dani backed away from Laedra, her eyes narrowed as well. "Yes," she said softly. "I think I will need to tell Master Koran that I need to speak with him."

"Well...perhaps we can all have a meeting together then. That might be best." Laedra bowed to Dani and Nieme, then followed them to the door. "I hope this has been a lesson to you, Padawans." Then, with an air of finality, she closed the door after them.

Dani stared at the door for a long moment, and then glanced over at Nieme. "Someone woke up on the dark side of the Force today."

Nieme gave a snort of laughter and nodded her emphatic agreement. "Do you really think she'll tell Master Koran Darr? Dani...she could get us into a lot of trouble."

"If she does," Dani said with a sigh, "then her relationship with Liam Zaneth will be revealed as well. But, I don't know if she's thinking clearly enough to realize that. I am certain they are together, Nieme. She wouldn't get this agitated and upset if there wasn't something going on, and something strictly forbidden by the Code."

"Then maybe we should leave it, Dani. I...I don't want to get her or Liam Zaneth into trouble." Nieme sighed and slipped her hand into Dani's. "But if she does bring us before the Council or Master Darr, I fear we may be left with little choice."

Dani sighed and then nodded. "I don't want to get them in trouble either," she said. "I just wish she hadn't gotten so mean in there. She was so nice before, but now...? We'll stay quiet unless we're called before the Council or Master Koran Darr. For now, I think I'd like to spend some time down by the waterfall."

Nieme nodded solemnly and gently pulled Dani along. "The waterfalls will make us forget all about it." She grinned slyly and added, "And I know a couple other things that will too."

Dani giggled and moved along with Nieme. "Oh, I know a few things too," she said. "Maybe we can teach each other some new things."

"Oh, I don't think I'm experienced enough for that, my love. You'll have to do all the teaching yourself."

Dani giggled. "Oh, you taught me something new last night," she said. "I don't think I'll ever forget that. And, I would not be surprised at all if I kept half the temple awake. Though, it's very secluded down by our waterfall."

Nieme giggled and pulled Dani closer. "Then maybe I'll have to teach you that one again."

"Let's hurry," Dani whispered as she pressed her lips to Nieme's ear, "because I want to be there with you lying by the water when the stars come out." With that, they slipped down the hallway toward the doors that would lead them out to the waterfall. For the moment, the problem with Laedra Vorrel was but a distant memory.

***

Instead of seeking calm and focus through meditation, Laedra Vorrel resorted to pacing the length of her room briskly to palliate her aggression. She was a Jedi Knight and should have far more control of her emotions than this, but when her reputation was threatened by a mere Padawan, self-control became nearly impossible. Once again, the stool resting at the foot of her bed became the victim of her pent up rage and was sent skittering across the floor and colliding with the far wall.

By chastising Dani, she'd only made her situation worse, but what else could she do? Allow the girl to have her and Liam's reputation besmirched, or frighten her into silence? The choice seemed simple at the time but now she realized she'd only made a mess of things. Why was love so complicated? And even more so, why was being a true Jedi so difficult to accomplish? Laedra had little faith, now that she truly could achieve that goal of devoting herself fully to the Order, especially not when she was going around threatening Padawans.

"Dear gods..." she murmured as she stopped before her window. "What am I going to tell Liam?"

"Tell Liam what?" came the voice from the door. "I'm sorry for barging in, but I thought it was better than standing outside drawing attention to myself." He closed the door behind him and stepped further inside. "You're very agitated. What's wrong?"

Laedra sighed sharply, and still finding no sense of equanimity within herself, she turned and sought Liam's embrace. "I think I did something very wrong, Liam. I think...I may have jeopardized everything."

Liam wrapped her into his arms, and held her close and let his presence comfort her. With gentle steps, he led them over to sit at the edge of her bed. "Tell me about what happened."

"It was nothing really," Laedra said with a shrug. "Just that Dani knows more than she's let on. She confronted me, Liam, about our relationship. I didn't lie to her and deny it, but I didn't admit anything either. That seemed to make her more insolent and persistent in her questioning. She threatened, so I threatened back, which was the worst possible thing I could've done. And now..." She sighed. "She'll go to Koran Darr and confess what she thinks she knows. We'll be disgraced then banished, Liam."

He took in the information she was giving him, and then Liam nodded. "Perhaps later we should speak to her," he said. "If we can approach it from a logical and rational standpoint, while we talk without accusing, maybe we can convince her to leave our relationship in peace. It may be tricky, but I think together we can manage. And, if nothing else, we appeal to her romantic nature, and I'm sure she'll come around."

Laedra pulled back and gazed at Liam in disbelief. "You are considering admitting everything to her? Liam, if we do that, she certainly will tell someone about us! If we deny it, she has nothing she can use against us. Liam, we can trust no one with this secret. No one."

"She already suspects," Liam said. "All she needs to do is mention something to anyone, and they could start an investigation into our actions. We don't need Koran Darr, Quinlan Vos, or Kal'Aran poking around in our personal lives. The best thing I can think of in this case is to admit the truth to Dani, and then swear her to secrecy."

"What makes you think she'll keep her word, if she gives it? She and Nieme are not well known for their ability to contain secrets for very long."

Liam nodded once more. "Then what do you propose?"

Laedra covered her face with her hand and contemplated a course of action for them. Their only option, however, was inaction, unless they wished their secret to become known to all within the Temple. "We leave her," she said finally. "We attempt to appear natural in her presence and we merely do not discuss the subject with her." Laedra looked to Liam. "Would that not be the best thing to do?"

Liam nodded. "We can try that," he said. "See if it works. Hopefully the confrontation has left the two of them feeling like they don't want to press the matter any further. Let's see if staying silent is what they want to do as well."

Laedra nodded uncertainly, then shifted to face Liam and forced a smile. "Was there something else you came to see me about?"

Liam laughed and then shook his head. "Well there was this matter of me loving you, and wanting to spend some time with you," he said. "Is that a good enough reason to come to see you?"

Laedra grinned and slipped her legs across Liam's lap, then her arms around his neck. "It was a perfect reason. And perfect timing too. I was just about to throw that stool through my window. Not the best way to deal with stress, but it would have sufficed."

"Though, I must wonder what Quinlan Vos or Kal'Aran would say if your window required repairs, and a stool needed to be retrieved from outside. Do you suppose they would merely shake their heads and sigh, or would they try to talk to you as if you were a Padawan again?"

"No, I rather think Master Vos would force me through that deathtrap again as a lesson in focus, and frankly, I believe Master Kal'Aran would approve!" Laedra laughed softly as she kissed Liam's cheek. "So, you find them as strict as I do, then?"

Liam laughed and then shook his head. "I think they like being strict for the sake of being strict. Master Koran Darr seems a little more open, but I haven't had a chance to speak to him much yet. I think this is going to take some getting used to. And, I have a feeling Old School and New School will be conflicting frequently."

"I feel it too. But much of the dissension will come from the older Masters, like Master Vos and Kal'Aran. Master Koran Darr seems very open-minded and willing to accept changes, if they are good changes." Laedra grinned and added, "Besides, he's very handsome. If he proves to be difficult, I can always sway his opinion with my feminine wiles. In fact, it would be my pleasure."

Liam laughed and pulled her even closer. "Oh I don't know about that," he said. "You seem to like the idea far too much. I would have to wonder if I'd ever get you back after you've spent some time with a Jedi Master in his prime."

"You make it sound even more appealing," Laedra said as she ran her hands over Liam's chest. "If you're not in your prime and you can make me scream like you do, I can only imagine what he can do to me."

"Well, I am in my prime," he said as he shifted them farther back onto the bed, "but I'm not a Jedi Master yet. And, I plan to still be in my prime when I am. So, you just watch yourself." He gave her a teasing-yet-seductive grin, and added: "I may just have to be the one disciplining you for those emotional outbursts you mentioned earlier."

"Rather presumptuous, don't you think, Liam Zaneth?" Laedra chided playfully. "I am a Jedi Knight, you are not." She pushed Liam onto his back and altered her position until she was sitting astraddle his waist. "I believe I will have to punish you for your lack of deference."

"Oh, that is very true," he said with another laugh, and then grinned even wider. "However, I spent a good deal of time in darkness, and I know some very naughty things. I think with my naughty knowledge, I should be the one in charge. Besides, I can make you scream louder. Oh...but then...hmmm...maybe we should take turns."

"I was very good at being naughty when I was a Padawan," Laedra noted. "My Master was forced to discipline me many times because of it." She drew Liam's arms above his head and held them down against the mattress. "I wonder if that impudent young girl is willing to make a return."

"Oh, I have a feeling I may know how to coax her out," Liam said. "I can see you being quite naughty. I imagine Ina really had his hands full with you. And, I also have a feeling that he had a very difficult time resisting your charms."

Laedra's smile disguised the sharp pain evoked by Liam's jokes, and the kiss she gave him prevented him from exacerbating it with further reminders of the rejection suffered by the first man she'd ever loved. "Now, Mr. Zaneth," she said while slowly undoing his tunic, "I want you to coax that girl out. Do you think you can?"

"I know I can," Liam said, sensing the pain he'd caused. He tried to not let it dampen his mood, but it was difficult. "Are you ready?"

Laedra pushed open Liam's tunic and grinned. "Of course, my love. I'm ready for anything with you."

Liam smiled and helped Laedra with her tunic. "I like the sound of that," he said. "Now, here comes everything." With that, he kissed her fiercely and passionately, eventually making it an afternoon not quickly forgotten.

---

"Small Trip"
By: Alisson Blair - Jedi Knight
and Kal'Aran - Jedi Master

Location: Jedi Temple; New Plouton; Ilum
Date: Niothe 18, 4 ABY

***

She closed the small box and locked it up so that no one other than herself would open it. Inside was her dual bladed lightsaber that she had used for a long time. Now was the time to construct a new one. And it would be a regular Jedi lightsaber. But in order to do so she would have to get some crystals from Ilum. Of course she could use those in the double bladed saber but she didn't want to. That weapon would lie still. A new one had to be made from scratch.

Alisson finally got up and sighed. She had noticed that her former Master had entered the room. She turned to face him. "Do you concur Master? Is my old weapon an instrument of evil?" she asked.

Kal'Aran could understand that she was puzzled to say the very least. "I taught you to use it and wield it in a noble and honourable way. In the Jedi ways. But it was created by the Sith Alisson..." he sighed.

"Then why was I allowed to use one?" she questionned.

"Truth be told, it was under the High Prince's own request. I thought it wrong but since I was not given much of a choice I decided it best to teach you all I could and change the pattterns of the original weapon used by the Sith. I believe you succeeded very well!" he told her.

The High Prince? He had requested such a weapon?! But why had he done so? Those questions were lost to her. She nodded as she understood. "I will be making a new lightsaber. A regular Jedi one."

"That is good news..." Kal'Aran smiled. "It is best to the others if all use the same weapon."

She smiled vainly and walked out the door turning back. "I will be going to Ilum to find the crystals I need... Can you give me a ride to New Plouton?"

"I would be delighted to!" he answered promptly.

***

A few hours later Alisson was left in the region of New Plouton and made her way to the starport where she had her vessel. Setting the coordinates, it didn't take her long to be in outer space and use the cloak device to elude Tarkin's forces, something that the other vessels were not capable of... When she made it to a safepoint she jumped into lightspeed and let the computer do the rest.

***Date: Niothe 19, 4 ABY***

The following day she was arriving in the Ilum System which was found empty, as always. Not much of a big surprise since it had nothing of interest to the common person. Descending, Alisson remembered the exact way to the cave where she had first picked up her crystals.

She disembarked at the entrance to the cave and had a chill that set throughout her entire body as the cold air passed by. It was much like Hoth, only different at the same time. Unexplainable really...

Alisson went inside and soon enough she was facing visions. Visions of her past and of her present. The death of the High Princess and her training as an infant, and even images that seemed were yet to be. But Alisson knew that all this was an illusion from the caves of Ilum. She had been there before. As she reached the heart of it, several crystals laid about with their diverse colours illuminating the room in a maze of blues and greens and pinks and yellows. She chose a bright yellow crystal that seemed to emanate more light than the others and safeguarded it as she turned around and made her way back.

***Date: Niothe 20, 4 ABY***

After another safe trip back home, Alisson made her way into the woods and, consequently, into the Temple once more. Once in her quarters she began the process of constructing her new lightsaber. A couple of hours later there was a sound and the air was filled with a slight smell. It was Alisson's new lightsaber with its yellow blade, ready for use, that had ionized the air ever so slightly.

---

"A Different Kind Of Intimacy, Part 1"
By: Merrick Braston
Kaysa Zenarr-Tregat

Location: Vendra, Tae'Karada
Date: Niothe 18, 4 ABY

***

Merrick lay stretched out under the sun, happily soaking in the hot rays descending down on him from the sky. Things had smoothed out considerably since that first encounter with Zale. As he and Kaysa had lain in bed, Zale had snuck up from his room, and they had taken turns pleasuring Kaysa for the rest of the night. At least until Zale had to return to his room before Oot Kovan woke up to find him gone. They hadn't seen him in the last two days, other than their nightly couplings.

With a long sigh, he glanced over at Kaysa. "I think I'm going to miss this place when we have to go home," he said.

Kaysa groaned and lightly slapped Merrick's arm. "Don't even bring that up. That thought alone makes me miserable."

"At least you'll be able to see Shiv there," he said. "And, Keeve. I'm sure by now she has him cleaning the house and walking the neighbours' pets."

"I can't wait to see what a perfect little gentleman he's hopefully become. I'm afraid, though, that when we return, he'll end up biting you again and pulling my hair, and we'll realize the sweet little boy we left behind last week appeared only as a result of a juvenile episode of some kind." Kaysa shrugged and sipped her drink - a non-alcoholic drink for certain this time. Merrick had sampled each one since the incident their first day to ensure there was not a trace of liquor within. "I only hope the move won't create more instability for him. We'll have to find a new place when we get back. Our apartment isn't big enough for five people."

"I imagine with all of us around it'll go fine," he said. "We'll just need to make sure to spend extra time with him, and make sure he doesn't get lost during the shuffle. When all of us grown-ups are so focused on getting things done right, it'd be easy to overlook him. I think we should make sure we have at least one person with him the whole time."

"Maybe his daddy or his Auntie Shiv..." Kaysa smiled ruefully. "Even though he's not trying to kill me anymore, Merrick, I still feel like there's so much distance between us. Just once I'd like to hear him call me 'mommy', or you, Uncle Merrick. I don't know if it'll ever happen, but gods, Merrick, I wish it would."

"Maybe with time it will," Merrick said. "Maybe if we give him attention and love, he'll think of us that way. I think it's worth a shot. Especially to keep him from biting me again." He grinned and shifted to face her. "It's going to work out fine, Kaysa; and soon, Keeve will love you just the way he should. You are his mommy, and soon he'll see that."

"And maybe he'll see that you're his daddy too, not just Zale." Kaysa stirred her drink with the straw and peered at the swirling, pink liquid. "I've been thinking that...maybe Zale and I shouldn't have that baby after all," she said quietly. "I mean...what would that do to Keeve? I don't wanna screw him up more than my leaving him behind already did. But I promised Zale... I don't know what to do."

"You should talk to Zale," he said. "I think we should give Keeve time to adjust here, and then once he's happy and content, perhaps you can talk to him too. I imagine if you came to him and asked if he'd like a little brother or sister, that would make him feel very grown up and responsible. And, I think it would also let him see how much you care about him and love him."

"And if he has a tantrum and emphatically rejects the idea? What then? I want to have Zale's baby. I want to reclaim what was so abruptly taken from us, Merrick. You don't know how much it hurt and how frustrating it was to realize you were deprived of something because of someone else's actions, because of something you couldn't control." She sighed sharply and set down her glass upon the sand. "I'm sorry. I shouldn't be telling you all this. It isn't fair to you to have to listen to me talk about having another man's child."

"You're wrong about me not knowing," Merrick said softly. "I know all too well what that feels like. And, if Keeve says no...then maybe wait until he's a little older. If he doesn't want the baby, and rejects it emphatically, when the baby arrives it's already in jeopardy depending on how threatened Keeve feels."

"Merrick, I am not bringing a child into this world if Keeve is just going to torment it or throw it out of a window! I have to be certain he will accept the baby if I'm going to come home with one someday." She looked out at the glistening sea in silence, then finally looked to Merrick and smiled to lighten the mood of the topic. "Throwing a child into the mix certainly makes things ten times more difficult, doesn't it?"

Merrick nodded slowly. "Much more difficult," he said. "But we still have lots of time, and there's no need to rush. I'm not going anywhere, and neither is Zale. And, you're still a young woman, Kaysa. We have the time now, especially with all of us together and happy."

"That's true, but I am a very reckless woman. Who knows if I'll even be alive long enough to give Zale a child?" Kaysa rested her head back against her beach chair and chuckled wearily. "I don't think I can picture myself living to a nice, old age. Can you? About yourself, I mean."

"I can't picture myself as old," Merrick said, "but I know I'll get there eventually. And, I have a very strong feeling that, despite your reservations, you'll be there with me. I think we'll be amusing then, denying our age and reliving our youth."

"I only hope I'll still be beautiful enough to tempt you and Zale." Kaysa smiled dreamily at the image of she, Merrick, and Zale, old and decrepit and attempting the feats of the other night. She quickly shook her head to dissipate the frightening, absurd vision. "At any rate, I'm not pregnant yet and won't be for a while yet. I guess there's nothing to worry about for now."

"Well, other than tanlines," Merrick said with a grin. "So, after Zale leaves tonight, what are we going to do?"

"We could go down to the lounge and just sit back and listen to some music and just...talk. Unless, of course, sex is the only thing you enjoy doing with me."

Merrick smiled. "I think I'd really like a nice evening of just you and me talking. We have a very strong sex life, and it's a big part of our life, but I think it'll be nice to just enjoy each other's company and be Merrick and Kaysa for a bit. I think we need that. I think we're doing good, but I think a chance to get to know each other better is a great idea. I think tonight we should make it a goal to learn at least one new thing about each other...and something not related directly to our sex lives."

"Something new?" Kaysa gnawed at her lower lip, looking quite perplexed. "Oh boy... I'm really gonna have to think about that. You know everything there is to know about me."

Merrick laughed and then reached out to brush a hand along her arm. "I have a feeling there are a few things I don't know about you," he said. "And, tonight we'll find out for certain."

Kaysa closed her eyes and sighed happily at the shiver his touch sent through her body. "I know one thing you don't know about me." She cracked open one eye and glanced sidelong at Merrick. "But it'll have to wait until this evening."

Merrick grinned. "Oh really," he said. "And, now I have to restrain my curiousity until this evening. You are an evil woman, Kaysa. And, have I mentioned how much I love evil women?"

"No, you haven't. I guess that's one of the things I didn't know about you before, but which I do now. We're oh for one. Do you think we should keep a tally?"

Merrick laughed. "I think that's a great idea," he said. "Whoever has the highest score at the end of the night gets a prize to be determined later. How does that sound?"

"But you'll win!" Kaysa protested. "I don't have anything to tell you. I don't think that's a very fair game, Braston!"

"But you will win," Merrick said, "because you'll be learning more about me in the process. And, I think there are things I could learn about you. But, the night will reveal the truth of the matter. And, when the sun rises, I think we will know each other better than we do now."

"I hope you're right, Merrick, because if not, we could be sitting in that lounge all night saying absolutely nothing to each other." A shrill squeal followed by a boisterous giggle drew Kaysa's attention to the ocean, the one neither she nor Merrick had stepped foot in since they arrived on Vendra. Kaysa smiled slowly at Merrick, then rose from her beach chair. "Come on. You have to teach me to swim."

Merrick smiled, and then pushed himself up from his beach chair. "I'm sure the water is beautiful here," he said. "And, before the day is over, you'll be swimming like you were born on Mon Calamari. And, I won't leave your side the entire time, my love. I will be your diesa shrimp."

Kaysa squawked with laughter and batted Merrick's arm. "You're a strange man, Mr. Braston. But you're in luck because I happen to like the look of you."

"Well, that's good," Merrick said, "because I'm not going to let you ditch me for that mamga loaf of a husband of yours. I'm in your life to stay, and I'm going to do everything I can to keep you happy and laughing."

She gazed at him quizzically, wondering how she had overlooked what an amazing, caring man she'd almost lost more than once and who she now knew was severely unappreciated by her. She was determined now to give him the credit he was long due. With a whimper, Kaysa sank into Merrick's arms and embraced him tightly. "You do make me happy, Merrick. You always make me happy."

"You have a beautiful smile, Kaysa," he whispered. "I can definitely see it perfectly when you're right there in my arms. And, your smile definitely radiates your happiness. And, every time I see it, I thank whichever higher power sent me to this planet to find you here. I've never felt more inspired or complete since that night when I saw that sultry brunette watching me on stage."

"Is this gonna turn into another song?" she teased. She laughed softly and pulled away before they made for their room instead of the ocean. "My beautiful musician, let's go teach this sultry brunette to swim before you bring her to tears with all your sentimental talk."

"Or make her vomit," he said with a dry laugh. "Come on." He hurried their pace down to the water, careful not to step on any of the myriad bodies littering the beach to soak in the rays of the sun. "And, it may end up a song, but it's just going to be for you, and no one else will ever hear it." They reached the spot where the water rolled up to lap at the small fortresses and other structures constructed in sand. Down the beach a ways, Merrick swore he saw only a head sticking up from one of the outlying towers of a fairly accurate representation of the royal palace in Arcadia. The head started to say something, but someone dropped a bucket on top of it, which brought out a chorus of laughter, including the head.

He shook his own head and pulled Kaysa closer to the water. "Now, first rule, breathe the air not the water. You'd think it was fairly obvious, but sometimes it can get tricky. Second rule, I won't let anything bad happen to you, so you can allow yourself to feel safe and comfortable with this."

Belied by her tight grip on Merrick's arms and her tensing body, Kaysa replied, "I do feel comfortable. It's just water, right? A lot of water...but still water. Just like taking a bath in Zale's gargantuan tub...right?"

"Exactly," Merrick said with a wide grin. "Just like that without the soap or the sex. And, there aren't any jets here to swirl the water around and massage aching muscles, but it's just like the tub."

Kaysa stepped deeper into the water with Merrick closely by her side. She yelped as her foot sank into the yielding sand and the water rose to just below her knee. "We're not going too far, right?"

A young, brown-haired boy was chased into the water by an even smaller girl, sending sprays of water in their direction and into Kaysa's mouth, choking her as the saline water made its way down her throat. "You little brat!" she hollered, then coughed again. "Watch where you're splashing!"

"Maeren!" a woman back on the beach called. "Maeren, get back here and stop chasing your brother!"

Merrick looked for a moment and then laughed. "Not going too far, my love," he said. "Just far enough to get a little wet. We can learn as much as you want today. We don't have to rush, and we can only get wet if you'd like. Or, we can swim all the way out to that little island there."

"Are you insane?" Kaysa shrieked. "I am not swimming out there! What if there are some strange creatures lurking down there? Not too far. Just...up to my hips okay?"

"Just to your hips," Merrick said. "And, even if you got good fast, I wouldn't try swimming out that far. It's too far, and that's a long swim. We can just walk around with the water up to our hips today. Maybe tomorrow we can do more. We can swim up the coast, maybe. Or around in circles. Or back and forth. As much as you feel comfortable with, my love. And, not a bit more. Just wait till bedtime tonight though, and then you'll get your rewards."

Kaysa laughed. "You're just trying to give me incentive to move deeper. You're a bad man, Mr. Braston." With one hand held out for balance, the nails of Kaysa's other dug into Merrick's arm for support. After a long silence, Kaysa reflected upon the water lapping at her legs and asked, "How do you know?" At Merrick's puzzled look, Kaysa elaborated. "You said you know what it's like to be frustrated because you're unable to have what you want. You're one of the richest men on Tae'Karada with two girlfriends. You have everything, Merrick. So, how do you know?"

"One of my girlfriends," Merrick began. "One of them, I wanted to be my wife."

"What?" Kaysa pulled away from Merrick and stumbled off balance before righting herself again. "You...you told me there was only one. You said there was only one other besides me." Kaysa shook her head and whimpered quietly. "You lied? Again?"

"Kaysa, there's only you and Shiv," he said. "And, I only wish that I'd asked you to be my wife before you could pop the question to Zale. You're the one, Kaysa. I love Shiv, but you're the one I would want as my wife."

Recovering from her initial overblown reaction, Kaysa sighed and nodded her head. "I know." She stood knee-deep in the water, oblivious now to the sounds of laughter and play around them as she focused on the suppressed pain in Merrick's eyes. "I'll always regret that every day of my life, Merrick. I never wanted to cause you any heartache. I'm sorry. That's all I can ever say. I'm sorry."

"As long as I have you in my life," Merrick said softly, "I'll be alright. I have your love, and nothing will ever take that away from me. And, we have this time together. It's perfect here with you."

"Here and now...but what about when we return home? Will it still be okay, Merrick? Can we make it?"

"If we want to make it," he said, "then we will. It won't be as easy as here, but we're starting on a good path. We'll make it work, my love."

"And to perhaps expedite that process, I'll tell you anything you wanna know tonight. Anything at all."

"Really? Anything? Well, one thing I've been curious about since we met...had you ever listened to any of my music before you met me? Or do I have to wait for tonight for that answer?"

Kaysa grinned elusively and turned away from Merrick to slosh through the water, farther out from the shore. "Merrick Braston," she called back, "come and teach your girl to swim!"

Merrick laughed and hop-stepped through the water to reach her. "Have you ever floated in the bathtub? Especially Zale's since it's bigger. But, I want you to try that now. I'll have my arms under you so you don't sink, but you'll be doing most of the floating."

"But...I'll sink," Kaysa said almost fearfully. "I'll just go straight to the bottom. Now, I know you're trying to flatter me by suggesting water can hold me up, but I don't think I'm that light, Merrick."

"Then you watch," he said. Once he was certain she was watching him and not trying to swim on her own, he slid back until he was floating atop the water. He glanced down his body at her and grinned. "See? The water can support you. The big part is making sure you have enough air in your lungs."

Kaysa chewed her lip to restrain herself from acting on the impulse to lunge at Merrick and sink him. With him showing off the way he was, it became that much more tempting. She, however, resisted and trudged along until she was beside him, then attempted to mimic his actions. Carefully and trepidly, she reclined back but still kept her feet firmly planted in the sand. "Oh...well would you look at that. I did it."

"Yes," Merrick said with a laugh as he settled back to his feet. He looked over her position and nodded. "Much better. You're still supporting yourself with your legs, but it's a good start."

"There's no way I'm taking my feet off the ground! Besides, this is almost comfortable. I don't really need to learn to swim. I just need to give the appearance of making an effort." She straightened up again and pushed back her sodden hair. "The real challenge, though, will be teaching me how to sing. I hear I'm pretty horrible."

Merrick laughed. "That's what Shiv said," he said. "And, she also mentioned that Keeve inherited his singing skills from you. But, if anyone can teach you to sing, it's gonna be me. But, we should probably start somewhere less crowded, and with better acoustics."

"Did you just insult me, Braston?" Kaysa grinned mischievously and began backing away from Merrick. "I'll teach you." She inhaled deeply as she stuck a finger into each of her ears. At the top of her lungs, she started belting out "Starrise In Paradise" for all to hear. As horrible as it sounded, she truly was giving her best effort, but by the look on Merrick's face, she knew not even that was enough.

Merrick moved forward shaking his head. "That's what they have amplification for," he said. "You don't have to scream. At that volume, you won't be able to find any nuances or levels in the music." He started singing Starrise as she had, but softer at first and growing in volume. It was a song he'd written shortly after they'd gotten together again, and the feelings evoked were as strong at that moment as when he'd first written it. Finally, he came to the end of that verse and grinned. "Don't worry. You hit a few of the notes in there, and if we work together, I think I can have you hitting all of them."

Kaysa unplugged her ears, and despite the waves crashing on the shore, the sounds of applause reached them, but she had no illusions about it being directed at her. "Well...seems I'm not as bad as you think I am. Look at them cheering for me. Is this my cue to go sign autographs?"

Merrick laughed. "I think it just may be," he said. "Come on. Maybe they'll want us to do a duet for them."

Kaysa walked proudly beside Merrick with her head aloft and a languid smile upon her face. She glanced at him once, then twice, the sight of him each time filling her mind more fully with mischievous ideas until finally she hooked one foot around Merrick's ankle and shoved him. She squealed and rushed away before the upsurge from Merrick's fall into the water could rain down upon her. "Race you to the beach, Braston!" she hollered.

Although a singer Kaysa wasn't, the biggest cheat on Tae'Karada was a title she could learn to live with.

---

"A Different Kind Of Intimacy, Part 2"
By: Merrick Braston
Kaysa Zenarr-Tregat

Location: Vendra, Tae'Karada
Date: Niothe 18, 4 ABY

***

Kaysa stirred the drink idly with her finger and once again smiled bashfully as she looked away from Merrick's penetrating stare. She remembered those smoke grey eyes from the first night they met and hadn't gotten them out of her mind since. Watching him through the haze of swirling cigarra smoke that night somehow made him more inscrutable and appealing to her, and tonight she was determined to penetrate that veil completely and truly get to know the man she loved, even after all this time.

The breeze from the open doorway in the lounge, which lead to the boardwalk, ruffled the hem of Kaysa's thin sundress, one kindly purchased for her by Merrick. The bumps along her arms weren't caused by the cool gust of wind from outside; those she knew came from the way Merrick's hand was lightly caressing her thigh. Gods how she loved this man, even though he was almost a complete stranger to her still.

She sighed and closed her eyes, listening to the gentle music in the background and swaying lightly to it. "This is a nice place, isn't it?"

"It is," Merrick said softly. "I don't think we have a place quite like this back in New Plouton. Everything there is too fast paced and frenetic. I like how relaxed and calm it is in here. And, the breeze. We don't have breezes like this there. I think I'd like to play in a place like this. With you in the first row watching me." He blinked slowly and shifted his gaze back to her. "I definitely like it here."

Kaysa pulled her finger from the drink and sucked on it lazily. "If you had to be something other than a singer," she said after removing her finger and sliding it back into the liquid, "what would it be?"

"Damn good question," Merrick said with a laugh. "I would want to be an artist of some sort, I think. I'm not nearly as talented as Shiv with graphic arts. If I hadn't been involved in music, I probably would have gone to the Imperial Academy and been a career officer. I'm really glad I got out of that. Life in the Imperial Navy wasn't very fun. I hate saluting people."

"Well, aside from the one finger salute," Kaysa amended. "I really can't picture you as an Imp. Well, you have the fighting skills now, but you're far too resistant to authority to obey a superior officer. I think now that career option is definitely closed. From what you've said, you're the Empire's most hated musician."

Merrick laughed again. "Well, I was an Imp for a very short time, but I got out as soon as I could. I was stationed aboard a Star Destroyer and even had a suit of stormtrooper armour assigned to me. Fortunately, I never had to go out in it. And, they really hated me when I got out. That felt good."

"I guess you're as twisted as me then," Kaysa said. "It's so invigorating instilling complete hatred towards you in another. Although...I make it very easy, don't I?"

"I don't know," Merrick said with a smile. "I've only ever loved you, so I haven't a clue if it's very easy or not. And, before you say it, no it wasn't always love. In the beginning there was a considerable amount of lust. And, it was very invigorating to be banned on Coruscant, but still be a hit in the underground. I think when you get banned for something like that, it really tells you that what you have to say is important and needs to be heard."

"Or maybe it just had a nice beat." Kaysa smiled sweetly and patted Merrick's hand. "You do have a certain charisma when you're on stage. It draws people in and makes them listen. Frankly, you can't help but be heard."

Merrick chuckled softly. "I like being heard," he said. "So, now, about you. What was it earlier that you wouldn't tell me that now, since it's tonight, you can tell me?"

Kaysa lifted one shoulder slightly in a shrug and tilted her head to one side. "Nothing really. Just that...well..." She looked into her glass and smiled shyly. "That night, when I bought you that drink at the White Noise, I only did it because..." Kaysa playfully growled in frustration before finally blurting out: "I bought you that drink because I wanted to meet my favourite musician and perhaps get an autograph out of it. Frankly, I hadn't planned on anything beyond that until I saw those damned dreamy eyes of yours. Happy?"

"I would have never guessed that you were a fan," Merrick said. "Shiv...well, she's a fan of everything. But you...I wouldn't have suspected. I hope meeting your favourite musician was everything you'd hoped it would be."

Kaysa chuckled. "Oh, it was that and more...especially when I had to clean your wounds." She sighed wistfully and reflected upon that fateful night, knowing it had been responsible for shaping the course of their lives. "If we'd had sex that night, we wouldn't be here right now, would we?"

"I don't know," Merrick said. "It could have been magical, and we could be in a very different place. I liked you enough to want to see more of you. I don't think I would have wanted to bolt if we'd had sex the first night. Though, the wait fuelled the anticipation and made it even more powerful when we finally did." He took her hand in his. "But, I can't imagine myself anywhere but with you."

Kaysa stared idly at Merrick's hand and sighed. "Do you know that I trust you implicitly? It may seem self-evident, but I don't really truly trust many people. I trust Zale to some degree, but I don't trust him enough to believe he'd remain faithful to me forever. He may never cheat on me, but I'm still not confident that he won't, say, let Oot have her wicked way with him. But you..." Kaysa grinned warmly. "I trust you more than I've ever trusted anyone, Merrick. I know you'd never break my heart. I just know it."

"I'd rather have my fingers smashed, my lips removed, and my vocal cords ripped out than ever hurt you in any way, let alone break your heart. I've never loved anyone more than I love you. Shiv is a very wonderful, lovable girl, but she doesn't really hold a candle to what I feel for you."

Kaysa looked down demurely and smiled awkwardly. "With that mouth, I'm surprised there was only one other before me. Why was it so hard to find another, Merrick?" The answer came to Kaysa soon after. With a rueful nod she added, "Liane hurt you badly, didn't she, Merrick? She broke your heart ten times over. That's it, isn't it?"

Merrick nodded. "Yes," he said. "Until I met you, I didn't allow anyone else close. I didn't know if I'd ever recover...but then I looked into your eyes and knew I had to try again. I nearly got burned up...but I had the courage to come back to you one more time."

"And that changed everything. And that's what brought us to this point." Kaysa leaned forward and giggled. "It's so strange, isn't it? We've been together barely a year and it seems like so much longer. So much has happened, I missed my own birthday! Can you believe that?"

He looked shocked. "You missed your own birthday?" Merrick shook his head and laughed softly. "Well, you and I are going to have to have a small birthday celebration for you here. And, a private party, I think."

"We've had a private party each night since we've been here, Merrick," Kaysa pointed out. "How will this time be any different?"

"Because we'll be wearing party hats this time," he said with a wide, impish grin.

Kaysa threw her head back and laughed, disrupting the tranquil ambience of the lounge. Even the live band seemed momentarily disturbed by her outburst, but they quickly resumed the easy flow of music without literally skipping a beat. "Are you serious, Braston? Party hats?"

"Do you have a problem with party hats?" Merrick asked with a grin. "We can even have a cake with flickers on it. And, you can make a wish. And, on the way back I'll stop and get you a very special birthday present. Party hats."

"Well...that sounds acceptable. And just so you know...chocolate is my favourite flavour." She eyed him warily and added, "I'm not gonna have to lick the cake off your body, am I?"

"Well, unless you wanted me to lick it off yours" he said with a grin. "But, we can eat off plates if you'd like. That way fewer baths are required."

Kaysa narrowed her eyes skeptically and laughed. "You're really gonna get me a cake? And hats?"

"Do you like cake and hats for birthdays?" Merrick asked. "Is that something you would like? Or, is that too much for you?"

"I don't really know," Kaysa replied. "I haven't had a birthday in over 12 years. I'm not sure what I like."

"Well, for the rest of our time here, we're celebrating your birthday," he said. "We've got twelve years worth of celebrating to do. I'm going to have to do some fast thinking, but I think working together we can certainly find out what you like. How's that sound?"

Kaysa gave a short nod and hopped off the chair. "Sounds like we have a lot of work to do. Get that ass of yours off that chair, Braston and let's get started. I want this to be good."

Merrick hopped to his feet and grabbed Kaysa's hand. "Now, we'll have to run down to that shop on the corner. We can get all the things for our party there. And, then we'll go back to the room, and you're going to take a nice long bath while I make all the preparations."

Kaysa moaned happily and flung her arms around Merrick. "I said Zale was the man of my dreams, but Merrick, I think I was severely mistaken."

Merrick held her close, just standing by their table and enjoying her close presence. "Would it be too selfish of me to say that I want to run away with you?"

"No, because I want to do the same, if only for a little while." She nuzzled his neck and swayed with him to the music wafting through the lounge. "Merrick?"

Holding her there like that, with their bodies moving in time with the gentle rhythms of the band, Merrick could have stayed there forever. "Yes, my love," he whispered.

"Can you buy me a ring?"

Merrick shifted his gaze to her eyes and smiled. He had no idea what she was plotting, but he couldn't deny the question. "Of course I can buy you a ring," he said. "I think there are probably several places here in Vendra where I can buy one."

"Then book a flight to...say...Coruscant or...or Bespin," she added, quickly. "Can we do that? We can leave tomorrow."

"Of course," Merrick said with a smile. "I can make the arrangements from our room. We can be out as early as you want."

Kaysa trembled with excitement and unexpectedly kissed Merrick deeply. She was breathless once their lips parted and gazed with longing into his eyes. "Can we go buy my birthday hats now and celebrate my twelve belated birthdays?"

"We can," he said with another grin. "When we fly out of here tomorrow, we may be kind of tired. I imagine celebrating twelve birthdays is going to keep us up late. Are you up for that? Me, you, our birthday hats, and a party like this place has never seen before."

Kaysa smiled and gave her unequivocal response by grabbing Merrick's hand and jerking him forward into a sprint out of the lounge. She could barely wait to spring her surprise on him, and although tonight was strictly in celebration of her missed birthdays, very soon Merrick would be in for a celebration of his own.

---

"Two Steps Back, Part 1"
By: Maeren "Shiv" Shivral
Lerrah Breijal [NPC]
Keeve Zenarr [NPC]
Elf [NPC]

Location: Yesdol, New Plouton
Date: Niothe 18, 4 ABY

***

Maeren Shivral lay sprawled out on the bed, sheets thrown back and the large shirt she'd worn to bed was bunched up over her hips. Next to her, Lerrah was curled happily with a gentle smile on her face. They'd promised to do nothing in their sleep, and had kept that promise. Well, except for a few kisses, and holding each other. But, nothing else had happened. Shiv had to wait for Kaysa, and she wouldn't be unfaithful without talking to Kaysa first.

She sighed dreamily as wakefulness slowly started returning with the creaking open of the door. The small droid standing guard in the corner swivelled his domed head, and tootled softly at the figure creeping through the door.

"Good morning, Elf," Keeve whispered. He translated his greeting into the best imitation of binary his human vocal cords were capable of by whistling the beginning of the song he'd taught Elf.

Elf picked up and whistled along with Keeve, carrying the tune and adding in a few flourishes only his sound modulator could produce. As they continued their duet, he swivelled his head around all the way, rocking softly from side to side.

On the bed, Shiv stirred at the tuneful wake-up call, and then rolled slightly to get just a little more sleep.

Keeve cut short the recital and wagged his finger at Shiv. "You can't fool me, Auntie! I saw you." He giggled as he rushed towards the bed and launched himself into the air. The impact made when he landed between the two prone forms bobbed the bed, and combined with Keeve's fitful battering of the mattress with his legs, it came dangerously close to collapsing beneath them. "Wake up! Wake...up!"

Lerrah jumped upright, well, as much as she could be upright while sitting. Shiv, on the other side, was struggling upright, almost laughing as she did. "Oh gods, Keeve," she murmured. "You're going to break the bed if you keep doing that, and Kaysa will kill me. She'll think that me and Lerrah were doing naughty things, and it'll look even worse if I try to tell her that you did it."

Keeve ceased his assailment and rolled over onto his back. "I don't want to get you in trouble, Auntie Shiv and Auntie Lerrah. I won't break the bed."

"Good," Shiv said, and gave him a big kiss on the forehead. "Besides, we still have to sleep on the bed for the rest of the week until Kaysa gets back, and your bed isn't big enough for all of us."

"I can sleep with Elf," he suggested excitedly. "You and Auntie Lerrah would fit perfectly on my bed." Keeve sat upright and turned his face up towards Lerrah. "Are you going to be living with us now too? And can Elf stay if you do?"

Lerrah smiled and brushed Keeve's hair back away from his eyes. "I think it's possible that I could be living here," she said. "I think we'll have to see what the others say. And, Elf will definitely stay here if I do."

"Oh, yay!" He bounced in place on the bed and grinned at Shiv. "Make her stay, Auntie. Please?"

Shiv laughed and brushed a hand along Lerrah's arm. "I'll do what I can," she said. "But, we'll have to talk to Kaysa, Merrick, and Zale. We can't do something like this without them approving."

"Well, while they're gone, I'm in charge and I say she can stay." Keeve nodded decisively, then pushed himself to his knees and threw his arms around Lerrah's neck. "We can have baths together and everything, Auntie Lerrah. It'll be so much fun!"

Lerrah cast a questioning glance at Shiv, who quickly smiled and mouthed the words, "Play along." Lerrah laughed and pulled her arms around Keeve.

"I am sure we'll have wonderful baths, Keeve," Lerrah said. "And, you have to show me that trick again on your hoverboard. I think I lost my concentration after I knocked that man over with the other hoverboard."

Keeve snickered. "He said a bad word too. I should've bitten him for you, Auntie."

Shiv laughed. "Oh, it's alright Keeve," she said. "I think the lump he'll have on his shin from the hoverboard will be more than enough reminder to watch where he's walking from now on."

Keeve scrambled over Lerrah's legs and slipped off the bed. He grabbed her hand and began tugging. "Breakfast time! Don't be shy about not having a lot of clothes on. Auntie Shiv always lets me see her naked. I don't mind seeing you naked too, Auntie Lerrah."

"On the planet where I come from," Lerrah said as she slid to the edge of the bed, "most people don't wear clothes because it's too hot for them. But, it's not like that here. It's cooler here, though, I think that's all controlled. So, how old are you, Keeve?"

"Old enough," he replied with a grin. He led the way towards the refresher, all the while smiling up at Lerrah and giving her the odd wink.

Lerrah laughed and pointed in the other direction. "Breakfast is that way," she said. "In the kitchen."

"Oh...right." Keeve shrugged and veered them away from the refresher to where Lerrah indicated. He walked closely beside her, brushing himself against her bare leg as he moved alongside her. "Come on, Elf! We'll make you something special to eat. Tootle, tootle!"

Lerrah laughed as the small droid rolled out of the bedroom and followed after them with Shiv following after him. "I guess it's a good thing I had that cooking program installed. Otherwise, the most he could do is mend broken tableware."

Shiv laughed. "You make him cook for you?"

"He's very good," she said. "Maybe Elf can make us dinner tonight. With Keeve's help, of course."

"Oh, I'm not allowed near the range anymore, Auntie Lerrah, especially after I tried to burn down the kitchen."

"Oh," Lerrah said. Then after a moment, she smiled. "Well, maybe you can stir things and get bowls for him."

"Sure." Keeve slipped away from Lerrah and caught up to Elf, tooting and whistling his suggestions for the breakfast menu.

Elf swivelled to look at Keeve and tooted a series of questions. He wondered if Lerrah might be able to add in another language program so that he might understand some of Keeve's more esoteric dialogue. There were things he could understand perfectly, but then others that made absolutely no sense.

"Well, sausages it is!" Keeve announced. "Auntie Shiv, do we have sausages?"

"Yes," Shiv called up to him. "There should be some in there. They're the ones we got the other day. If we need more, Lerrah and I can run down to the corner market."

Keeve pulled open the door of the refrigeration unit and made a quick, less than thorough inspection. "Nope. We're all out, Auntie." He threw the door shut and turned to face them again. "You two can go and me and Elf will start cooking. Maybe I'll even teach him another song. Wouldn't you like that, Elf? Tweet!"

Elf beeped a response and rolled further into the kitchen to begin the preparations. As he worked, he tootled away.

Shiv laughed, and then pulled Lerrah back toward the bedroom. "We're going to put some clothes on and go down. You two will be fine in there, right Keeve?"

Keeve waved Shiv off and returned to conferring with Elf about how to work the range, since he'd fiddled with it so many times, he considered himself an expert.

A compartment at the front of Elf's body opened and a manipulating appendage slid out. It snaked out and pulled a bowl down, and then another grabbed a large whisk. He booped an order for eight eggs and rolled closer to the refrigeration unit.

"Right away, Elf!" Keeve bounced cheerfully towards the refrigeration unit and swung it open again. He scanned the shelves for Elf's request and sighed impatiently. "Aunties! You'll have to pick up some eggs too. Hurry! Elf is hungry!"

The droid made another long series of noises and quickly reached in a manipulator arm and pulled out a large loaf of bread before Keeve could slam the door again. He tooted once, and then rolled to where a small unit sat on the counter waiting to toast the bread he had retrieved. With dexterous movements, he quickly managed to drop four slices of the bread into the top of the device and activated its start sequence. With that, he swivelled to face Keeve and tootled happily, adding in a bit of their song at the end.

"Good boy, Elf!" Keeve patted the droid's domed head affectionately and picked up a few bars of the song from where Elf left off. "I'm sure Kaysa will let me keep you. You're smart and you can cook."

The droid turned to face Keeve and looked the boy over. He gave an appraising beep, and then another that sounded happy. He rolled forward slightly and nudged Keeve playfully.

"Hey!" He giggled and gently pushed Elf back. "We can play after, Elf. We have to cook now, silly boy."

Elf let out a series of toots that could have almost been laughter, and then rolled back to check on the toast.

"Auntie Shiv! Auntie Lerrah!" Keeve hollered from the kitchen. "Hurry!"

Shiv rushed out of the bedroom and into the kitchen while still buttoning her shirt. "What is it? What's wrong?"

"Nothing," he said with a giggle. "I just wanted you and Auntie Lerrah to go to the store so we can have our sausages, that's all."

"Oh, is that all?" Shiv asked with a laugh. "I thought you and Elf were in here burning down the apartment again. We'll be really quick, and then you'll be able to make those sausages, and eggs too."

Lerrah came up behind Shiv and looked around. "Everything alright?"

"He was just trying to tell us to hurry up." Shiv glanced down at Keeve and grinned. "We'll be back before you know we're gone, alright?"

Keeve nodded briskly and slapped Shiv on the rear. "See ya later, Auntie!" Then, he happily resumed watching Elf start in on their next dish.

The next dish, was in fact another batch of toast. Shiv shook her head as she watched the two for a moment, then took Lerrah's hand and started toward the door.

"Oh, don't worry, Elf," Keeve was heard saying as the two stepped into the hallway, "if there's a fire, we have lots of windows around here. I can teach you how to fly!"

From the doorway, Shiv paused for a moment, swallowed hard and looked up at Lerrah.

Her former lover smiled in a way that always sent her heart fluttering and said, "Don't worry. Elf has fire suppression gear built in, and he really does know how to cook. It'll be fine."

With that, they slipped outside, closing the door behind them, and ventured off to the store.

***

Elf observed the plate piled high with toast and the empty wrapper that had formerly held the loaf of bread. He swivelled his dome to face Keeve and beeped a question. They obviously needed another loaf of bread.

Keeve frowned in consternation as he stared at the tower of toast. They would definitely need more than twelve slices. "Well...we could always tell Auntie Shiv and Lerrah to get us some when they come back...or we could just go and get some ourselves. Whaddya say, Elf? Tweet?"

The toot that followed Keeve's question was as much of a nod as the little droid could make. With that, he extended his support leg, and started rolling toward the door, tooting as he went.

"Now, I have some money my daddy left me, Elf," Keeve mentioned once they were in the hallway. "But we can't spend it all on bread because we have to buy Lerrah and Shiv something nice."

Elf beeped an affirmative and rolled to a stop in front of the lift door. He swivelled his head back to watch Keeve approach. He tootled and chirped, and waited for Keeve to open the door.

"Oh, Elf, do I have to do everything?" Keeve giggled and punched at the door panel for the lift. Once it had taken them to the ground level, they started out of the building and onto the street. "Now, we have to be quick. We want to get back before Auntie Shiv and Auntie Lerrah come home or else they'll get mad."

Elf whirred for a moment, and then beeped. He rolled forward in the direction Keeve had started and used his sensors to try to determine where they might be going to find bread. Once he found a prospective location, he tooted a question to Keeve.

Keeve read the text scrolling on his wrist translator, then nodded. "That looks good to me!" He whistled their song happily and skipped alongside Elf. The droid jumped into the song, whistling in harmony with Keeve. "You're getting better every day, Elf. I think I'll have to teach you a new one."

Elf continued along with Keeve, but ignored the man following them. He'd separated from the others watching the building where they were staying and followed along, trying to stay hidden. Elf knew they were watching in order to protect, and the man following was one of the protectors. There was no need to mention the shadow either. He tooted a response, and would have made his equivalent of a bow if they hadn't still been moving.

"My other father, Merrick, he knows lots of songs. Just don't tell him I called him my father," Keeve added in a low whisper. "Shiv says he can be a wuss sometimes, and if I call him daddy, he'd probably cry."

A low toot was Elf's response to the statement. He then went on to explain that he had no father, that he had been constructed. He was more independent than most droids, and Lerrah considered him more of a co-pilot and partner than a droid. Then, uncertain at some of the logic in Keeve's statement, asked why being called daddy would make Merrick cry.

Keeve shrugged. "I dunno. I guess it's because I was mean to him at first, called him names and bit him... If I call him daddy, it might make him happy, and when people are happy, sometimes they cry."

Elf processed that for a moment, and then swivelled his head to view Keeve. With a series of complex beeps and whistles, he asked if Keeve didn't want Merrick to be happy.

"Well..." Keeve frowned pensively, then sighed. "It makes Auntie Shiv happy when I make others happy. She told me she loves Merrick, so if I make him happy, she'll be happy too. So...yes, I want Merrick to be happy."

Elf watched Keeve for a moment, and wondered about the boy's programming. Was he programmed with the desire to make Shiv happy? It was very similar to how he served Lerrah. She no longer even required to keep a restraining bolt on him. And, since Keeve wished to make Shiv happy, the relationships seemed so very similar. He asked Keeve if this was the case.

Keeve giggled. "Elf, I wasn't programmed. I just...am the way I am. I love Auntie S