"Remains of a Memory"
By: Kel Denab
Laedra Vorrel

Location: Jedi Temple; New Plouton
Date: Selene 18, 5 ABY

***

Kel arrived at the Jedi Temple a few days after seeing the news report. He furrowed his brow, and walked up to the gates. He had been here once in current memory, who knows how many times previously. Kel at least felt a little peaceful out away from the bustle of the city he lived in...well, used to live in. Until he figured out who wanted him dead, and why, he could not return to his home. Kel saw what he was looking for, and pushed a button near the gates, waiting for someone to answer.

"There's no need for that," a pleasant voice called to him from the side. Laedra Vorrel emerged from between the trees with a brown cloak folded over her arm and her damp hair falling around her shoulders. "I was out for a swim in the lake. I sensed your presence - it's distinct in its feelings of desolation." She smiled, hoping to bring levity to her assessment of him. "How has your search been?"

"Well, I'm glad I have a distinct presence," Kel said, smiling a bit, turning around. He had heard her approach a split second after pressing the call button. "Swimming in the lake eh? I take it it's relaxing?" he asked, avoiding the latter question for the moment.

"And refreshing," she agreed. "Have you come here for one yourself?"

"No," Kel said, shaking his head. "I came for answers, mostly. I saw on a newscast that the body of my sister had been found not far from here. And, seeing her face flashed on the holovid...brought back a few moments of memory, mostly me finding her, and then my blaster smoking, with her dead. She was in a room, naked...but wrapped up in something. I was hoping maybe seeing her body would stimulate more...I don't know, it could have been nothing," he said, sighing heavily. "Perhaps this is just stupid."

Stopping before him, Laedra's expression bore compassion now rather than humour. "Why is it stupid? These could be real memories...or is it denial you feel and not doubt?"

"No, stupid that I think by actually seeing her in person it'll stimulate more than an image on a viewer," Kel said.

"You want to visit her body, then?" Laedra nodded slowly. "It makes sense. But...she's been dead a long while, Mr. Denab. Are you sure you can cope with the sight?"

"I'm pretty sure I can," Kel said with determination.

"And you would like me to go with you?" Laedra assumed.

"If you could. I don't know where they took her," Kel said, shrugging. "Not to mention, a little extra protection could not hurt," he added, smiling a bit.

"Protection? So you do believe you're in danger now. Have you remembered something?"

"Well, no...I guess you didn't know, but I was practically killed. Would have been, had someone not intervened and helped me out," Kel said to her. "A little digging here and there, and apparently there's a hit out on me. Quite fun. I think it all cycles back to whatever happened before I lost my memory."

"The key to which," Laedra reasoned, "could be triggered by the sight of your deceased sister's body." She smiled kindly. "It makes sense. And I'm certain I can gain us access to her remains. I would be glad to help."

"Thanks," Kel said to her. "I'm hoping something happens, but...well, I'm not holding my breath," he added.

"I would advise against that," Laedra teased, "for we can leave immediately...if that is your desire. Or perhaps you need a moment to gather yourself before we do this? It must be difficult, to know you've lost a loved one, but be incapable of feeling the grief that should come with that...."

"Nope, I don't feel anything... so we can leave. And, well, I don't know. I assumed that I loved her, but that's another mystery that I don't know," Kel said, smiling a bit.

Laedra responded with a curious smile, then she began slipping on her cloak. "If you have a vehicle, we may begin your journey, Mr. Denab. I will drive, if you need time to mentally prepare for what's to come...though it seems that is not required for you, though once we encounter your sister's body, and memories potentially return, your mind might be changed."

"Ok, this way," he said to her. Arriving at his vehicle, Kel hopped into the passenger side, and leaned back a little. "Drive on," he added, smiling.

Chuckling, Laedra shook her head and hit the thrusters, launching the hovercar forward into the forest. They wouldn't stop until they reached the morgue...and possibly the key to uncovering Kel's past.

Gaining access to the body was a touch more complicated than expected, despite Laedra's status as a Jedi - it afforded her no special rights and privileges, but with a declaration of Kel's blood ties with the deceased, and a thorough set of procedures meant to verify his identity, the two were finally given access. And there they stood now, by Selena's containment pod, looking through the transparisteel window at the partially decayed woman within. Respectfully, Laedra had averted her eyes, settling them upon Kel. "I can leave you if you wish...if you need a moment alone."

Kel looked at the body, and breathed in for a moment, then shook his head. "No, no...I'm not getting anything," Kel said, seeing the body. It held no meaning to him, no connection...he barely recognized it as the photo they had flashed up on the holovid. He let out a sigh, then turned to walk away. Suddenly, he staggered. Something else in his mind... a sequence.... He saw himself, reading something on a panel, then donning his suit of armor. Shortly, he found his way to a suite...and someone, someone of importance, was doing his sister. He saw himself raising a blaster, then his sister...Jordan? saying "Kel...Kel, it's not what you think..." then him shooting her. Her limp body, laying there...and him telling the senator he would be next if he mentioned anything at all.

"Mr. Denab?" Laedra carefully came up behind him, but her summons went unheard. She laid a hand on his shoulder and shook gently. "Mr. Denab? Is something wrong?"

Kel turned around. "I remembered more... a little more. My sister was having sex with some guy, seemed important...and I walked in, and shot her. She said something about: 'It's not what you think,' but..there was more hidden in her eyes, like she was actually lying. I have to know more," Kel said to Laedra, turning to meet her.

"You apparently killed your own sister," Laedra pointed out. "I too wish to know more, especially if you are to ever step foot near the Temple again. If you are not the man I thought you to be - if you possess violent tendencies - then it is imperative we find out for certain."

"And if I was, then perhaps leaving me this way would not be a bad thing," he said, shrugging. "Although, wouldn't it stand to reason that I would still be the same person at heart, I mean, other than having no memories, would I not be the same?" Kel asked.

"I do not believe so," Laedra answered. "It is our experiences, the environment we grew in, our influences that affect who we become. Perhaps if you remember none of those things, you will be an entirely different person."

"I see," he said to her. "But wouldn't it also stand to reason if I was a ruthless person, that people would have tried to kill me before now?"

"Maybe they have and you simply don't remember." Laedra smiled pointedly.

"Could be," he said with a shrug. "I guess from this point, I should figure out who's trying to off me. I do have a lead for that, at least...and I plan to investigate it," Kel told her.

"Alone? Is that not dangerous?"

"Not alone. Someone is helping me out, a Selena," Kel said to Laedra.

"And she can be trusted?" she asked forthrightly. "Could she not be one of the enemy posing as a friend?"

"Well, I hope not... she got me out of a bind earlier, the incident I mentioned a while ago about being attacked," Kel said. "Plus, I have my eyes on her..." he added, smiling.

"Then I will not place her loyalties further into question. If you need to depart immediately, I will find my own way back to the Temple. I only hope I've helped at least a very little."

"I believe you have," Kel said to Laedra. "It's unfortunate you couldn't come along as well," he added.

"I cannot neglect my duties," she explained apologetically. "But I will still assist you in any way I can as long as it does not take me away from the temple for too long."

"I know, and we'll be gone for a while, I'm thinking," Kel responded to her. "Just voicing my opinion," he added with a slight smile.

Laedra tipped her head in gratitude, appreciative of Kel's high opinion of her in inviting her along. "I do hope you find what you're looking for, Mr. Denab...but try to stay out of trouble while doing it, hm?"

"I'll try," he said with a smile to her. "Let's get you back."

They left behind the morgue, and the remains of Kel's sister, and eventually parted ways, though Laedra did repeat her offer of aid before he departed. "May the Force be with you and guide you, Mr. Denab," she whispered after his vehicle as it sailed through the trees of the forest. She hoped the Force was all he needed for a safe journey.

---

"A Little Job"
By: Chun Li - Escort Pilot and PI
Rylaa Lyssander - Crimelord and businessman
Lorgal - Bodyguard and Secretary
Ramon Dkia - Contact

Date: Selene 18, 5 ABY
Location: Drogen Shipyards

***

Li was on her way to her apartment on Drogen. It had been quiet the last days, and while it was nice at times, too much and she was ready to climb the walls. But for now it was still bearable. She had been working on some upgrades on her fighter for the longer flights.

A hooded figure stepped in front of her path and asked in a quiet voice, "Ms. Li?" At her nod he continued, "My name is Ramon Dkia, and I represent a company called Ares Macrotechnology. My employer, one Rylaa Lyssander, wish to hire you for an investigation. If you wish, I can take you to him."

Li had gotten some stuff from Ares during her previous job, and although the devices hadn't been needed, she still had them.

"Lead the way," Li said, following the man.

The cloaked figure turned and hurriedly walked away without a further word. He walked past the lifts and stopped at what appeared to be a bare section of wall. A hand came out of the cloak and a wrist unit beeped as it was waved across the wall. With a floosh of compressed air, a previously hidden section of the bulkhead slid open to reveal a much nicer turbolift. The insides were paneled in expensive Corellian oak and a short Bothon in a red uniform with gold cufflinks smiled at them.

"Floor?" he asked in a heavily accented Basic.

"Ninth," Ramon replied. The doors closed and the three of them rushed straight up. Ramon noticed Li's confused look and he grinned slightly. "Some of the more private patrons of Drogen like to have much more private apartments. They are costly, but provided upon request."

"I see," was the only thing Li said. She didn't like the fact that she was in a room with no visible exit, but she didn't think she was in great danger. It wouldn't do Rylaa much good to shoot her, at least not now.

The lift doors opened and the Bothan smiled and nodded as Ramon and Li exited. They stepped in a well furnished foyer that led into a large living room. While everything in the rooms were well made, nothing was of the extravagance one normally associated with the wealthy. Behind a large wooden desk a short chubby man in a well-tailored black suit sat in a overstuffed leather chair. Curses were flying from his mouth into the headset he wore as he spoke to a miniature holographic image projected onto the desktop.

Leaning against a wall was a mountain of a Barabel tapping things into a noteputer. The suit that we wore had been specially tailored for his large tail which was currently resting one of the couches. His head snapped up as the two entered the room and he leaned over say something to his boss who ended his call. Rylaa took off his headset and smiled at Li.

"So you must be Chun Li," he said in a jovial voice. "I've read quite a bit about you." He picked up a thin stack of flimsy and leafed through it. "Former Imperial Intelligence I noticed, that says alot about you. As much as I disliked the Empire, they really knew how to choose the best of the best. One of my associates and close friends was once a member of CompForce, in fact she was what they a Scout, their elite."

He got up and began to walk from around his desk slowly, his hands clasped behind his back. The vidscreen behind the desk showed a very high quality image of the slowly turning planet below them. "Ms. Li, I have a job that requires your, special touch. You have very good investigative skills and that is something that am currently in need of." He turned his back to her and looked at the planet for a couple minutes before continuing. "Several years ago I was in the process of running a company on Coruscant. While it wasn't large, is was certainly powerful and very very wealthy. A member of my board of directors betrayed me and managed to talk the rest of them in to ousting me."

Rylaa turned his head and raised an eyebrow. "But he wasn't done there. This Bothan, whose name shall remain hidden until the time that you have agreed to take on my job, also tried to have me killed. In fact, since I left Coruscant with my tail between my legs, I have avoided at least seventeen separate attempts on my life, all of them associated with this person. In fact, one of those attempts was right here on Drogen, not too long ago." He turned and looked directly at her with his piercing eyes. "I want to bring this usurper to justice, and over the years I have collected enough evidence against him to bring to the New Republic Authorities. The problem is, that he has gone into hiding. I want you to find him for me."

Li had kept silent during his speech. "So you want me to find a Bothan businessman somewhere in the Galaxy," Li said, "well, in principle I agree on the job, but first we'll need to work out some details. First of all is my fee."

"Yes of course, your fee. I know you do not come cheap, but I am willing to pay well." Rylaa reached down to his desk and grabbed a thick cigar from the private humidor there. It was a habit he had picked up not only because it was relaxing, but because he felt that it sometimes intimidated people. Most of the time he was far from the truth.

"I will give you twenty thousand credits now," he said, lighting the cigar with a puff of thick white smoke, "and twenty more when you return with the information that I seek. In addition to the forty thousand credits, I will also provide you with a decent enough overhead for fuel and ammunition, should you require it. Will that be sufficient?"

"That will be sufficient," Li stated. In fact, it was more then she had ever made on a job, but she wasn't going to tell him. "Okay, that brings us to the next point," she said, "do you want me to turn him directly to the law, or do you want to do that yourself?"

"I'll do it myself. I have some questions I want to ask him first."

"Fine by me," she said, "then there's only one other thing, and that's information. I would like to have everything you have on this person, so I know where to start looking."

"Of course," Rylaa said, taking several puffs from his cigar. "I'll have my people download everything we have on him to your ship. I have only one confession. There lies the possibility that the Bothan will not want to come quietly. Because of this, I'm going to send some backup with you. My assistant, Lorgal, and his ship and men are at your disposal."

Li had to think about it for a moment. On the one hand, she normally worked alone, and having other people could cause some serious complication. On the other hand, it could also be useful.

"Okay, as long as they realise that I'm in command," she said, "what kind of ship is it?"

"It's a modified Corellian Corvette called the Altdorf."

"Okay," Li said, "I should be able to put my fighter inside, depending on the configuration." She took out a PADD and made a few notes. "I'll check out the ship now," Li said, "and depending on the circumstances we can leave tomorrow or the day after."

Rylaa grinned past his cigar and held out his hand. Then we have a deal? Excellent! Lorgal and the rest of my men will meet you at the Altdorf in two hours. It's in dock 37, the Ares private hanger. Say your name and my guards will let you through."

"Sounds like a plan," Li said, standing up, "the first money will by then be transferred I guess. Have a nice day, sir."

---

"Arrival at Drogen"
By Connor Moonsgrave

Location: Drogen Shipyards
Date: Selene 18, 5 ABY

***

The cargo ship made the final approached to Drogen Shipyards. The landing gear exited from under the cargo ship and set in the place as the pilot made the slow and careful landing. The cargo ship was almost twenty years old and some of its mechanical parts worked almost to the limit of what was permitted and perhaps safe regulations.

When the landing gear touched the metal bridge, the ship sunk a few meters hard, showing that the landing gear was not in great condition. The people within the cargo ship felt that sunk like their stomachs went to their respective mouths.

Several white smoke exited from under the gear and a small fog created for brief moments as it was swept away into deep space. Finally the final proceedings happen, when the metal bridge began to move towards the station taking the cargo ship into the lower decks of the Drogen Shipyards.

The ramp of the cargo ship finally opened, when the force field of the small hangar was back online, permitting the breathable air to fill the small hangar.

When the ramp was on ground a group of people began to exit. Their faces looked like they never slept for several days straight. They had dirty and ripped off clothes making it clear that this was refugees, which paid all they had to flee the conflict and to search a new and better life in Tae'Karada.

These were no normal refugees, this were the people that wanted to avoid the normal process of emigration and the only way to enter with this large group was entering in the lower decks of the Drogen Shipyards where there was little control of the Drogen securities. The security or politics inside Drogen showed little interest of this group of people, since they were the hard labor of the shipyards, which most common people no longer did.

Among these people was a man that looked slightly different from the rest. He had a work body and military stature that he tried to conceal it the best he could. Though he was not worried of concealing is face, but he was little worried if he could be recognize.

After passing through the small authority check point with no worries, Connor walked through one of the many corridors of the lower decks. He knew that the poverty and large concentration of drinkers and low lives, was no sign of what was life in the upper decks.

Connor stopped a few meters from the main access to the upper decks and there he saw a large detail of security, which made sure who was allowed or not to go to the upper decks.

Connor took few minutes to look around the life that these people took regardless of their misfortune and lies of a hope to better future. Connor knew that most people in here would never see another life again, others were lucky to earn the passage to the upper decks.

However it was not in Connor's plans to get himself up there, but to get a few credits, enough to buy passage to Tae'Karada.

Connor looked to a small cantina not far from where he stood and decided to take his chance to see what was in it. The sound was loud and frenetic, with several people dancing in strange way, enough for Connor to see that they were high on something, perhaps on spice. Two others exchanged a few punches and kicks. The smell was awful enough for Connor to give up the idea to move inside the cantina.

When he exited he was relief of breathing fresh air, at least it was fresher then inside that cantina. Connor walked towards where he came, when he passed by a small sign, that said the Drogen Inn. He decided to have looked, since more horrible then that cantina was impossible.

Connor entered and saw that few people were in it. Nothing much, a few friends laughing and enjoying some drinks at a sound of a soft music. Connor's first impression was that the small inn was in fact of a bar. As he entered he looked up and saw few doors that made him thinking that it was the rent rooms of the Inn.

He sat at the bar, where few people drawn their sorrows at the bottom of their glasses. The bartender looked at him, with unusual smile on his face. "What will you have, stranger?"

"Will have a..." Connor took time to think what to order. "...Kopi Tea, please."

"Very well!" The bartender said. After a few minutes he placed Connor's tea in front of him.

Connor looked to Kopi Tea and could see that the drink was properly brewed, since it had a deep orange color. The tea was still hot, since a small steam exited from it. As Connor swallow a bit of the liquid a warm sensation spread across his body. "That felt good."

"You just arrived here?" The bartender asked, curious.

"Yes. I took a ride along some of the newcomer refugees," Connor said, enjoying more of his Kopi Tea.

"Where from?"

Connor looked to the bartender. "Sernpidal."

"Poor bastards. War is something terrible."

"I agree. While the galaxy is in war, the people who suffer first hand is poor ones and those who are the target of the enemy hatred." Connor looked to the bartender that still had a smile on his face.

"You seem to witness war first hand. Where were you?"

"I was recently in Thyferra during the Bacta War. I was one of many mercenaries that the New Republic hired to help the local rebels to fight against the Imperial occupation," Connor said, swallowing more of his Kopi Tea.

"Really?" the bartender said. "My brother was also there as mercenary. His name is D'lyn Weeon..."

"D'lyn!?!?!" Connor said surprised. "You're Eeron?"

"Yes!" the bartender laughed. "Gods, sometimes the galaxy can be small."

"Yes it can..." Connor looked at the bartender. "Oops! Where are my manners, my name is Connor Moonsgrave."

"Ah!!!! The great Connor. D'lyn told me about you! The one with the dark past, that saved D'lyn's life several times in row," Eeron said with smile.

"That's me. How's D'lyn?" Connor asked.

"Fine, extremely fine. He got married last week with Thyferrian female. He was sad that you were untouchable, since he wanted you for best man."

"Oh. I'm honored, I'm sad that I couldn't be there." Connor's apologies caught Eeron by surprise.

"There is no need for apologies. It's life!" Eeron paused for a moment. "Did you find a place to stay?"

"No, not yet!"

"Then offer a room upstairs free of charges and consider that Kopi tea on the house." Bartender said.

Now Connor was the one surprised. "I couldn't..."

"Hush, hush. It is the least I can do, for saving my brother's life," Eeron said. "Now you can finish that Kopi Tea, while I will have your room prepare for you. You must be tired from your hard trip."

"Thank you," Connor said. As matter of fact he was tired and as soon has he finished his tea, he would go to his room and fell asleep to the warmest and fluffy bed he had in the last couple of months.

---

"Checking The Ship"
By: Chun Li - Escort Pilot, PI
Alekzander Kerensky - Captain of Altdorf
Lorgal - Bodyguard and Secretary

Date: Selene 18, 5ABY
Location: Corellian Corvette Altdorf, Deck 37, Drogen Shipyards

***

"It looks impressive," Li said to the captain. She had done a tour of the Corellian corvette which would become her base for the next mission. Loral had just been following her around as she looked at the ship.

"Luckily I can dock my ship into the cargo hold," Li said. That was an impressive feat, the fact that the cargo hold had a magcon field, meaning it could be used for ship launch. Probably the field was there to make sure they could transfer large cargo containers in space should that ever be necessary.

"Okay," Li continued, "here's the schedule. We leave tonight, as there's no need to wait. That will bring us to Imperial Center in two days. Assuming you have some legit cargo for Imperial Center, you go on doing that while I go sniffing around for the target. Depending on the progress we make there, we make the rest of our plans."

"Sounds like a plan," Loral said, "anything else?"

"One thing," Li said, "my name is known with imperial intelligence. With Iceheart in charge, I can't just walk around there. So I've procured some fake documents. I'm Ivana Skonezcna from now on." They both shrugged, probably used to people changing names all the time.

"Very well," Li said, "I'll see you tonight, at 20.00"

She walked back to her quarters to pack some things she might need, and check the results from her search on Lyssander. The results were not all that impressive, and there were large gaps in time, but it did give her some idea of why he wanted the bothan. Being kicked out of your own company probably wasn't fun at all.

Well, that wasn't her problem for now, the gaps in his records were. She didn't like it when people had those kinds of gaps. The text that should be in there often made for the most interesting reading. It probably meant he was a criminal of some sorts, but that she had known from the first time she had met him. While Ares was a real company, operating within the law, she was certain he probably had his fingers in some more shadowy business as well.

*** Later that evening ***

At 20.00 Fa Rong en Altdorf left Drogen. Li had chosen to bring her ship into the corvette outside of the bays, just before going to hyperspace. Ten minutes later she was docked and they were in hyperspace, on their way to Coruscant.

---

"Another Headache"
by: Rylaa Lyssander - Crimelord and businessman

Location: Ares Headquarters, New Plouton
Date: Selene 18, 5ABY

***

The large double doors to Rylaa's office slammed open with the force of the crimlord's kick. He stormed in, face red with anger, and glared at his lieutenants that stood inside. "Why the hell didn't we know about this," he fumed at them.

"Well, Boss, these guys aren't attached to anything," the seedy looking Twi'lek in charge of his intelligence division said. The dark green skinned alien was perpetually drywashing his hands, today it seemed he wanted to take his skin off.

"Not attached? Great, so now we have some mocked up Imperial out there, probably calling himself a Warlord or somesuch, and he's been ambushing our freighters. On purpose! That means they know where our shipping is going to be... and that means we have a leak." This final statement caused the assorted aliens in the crowd to begin looking carefully at each other. Rylaa had placed his hands behind his back and was pacing the line. He stopped in front of an obese twi'lek whose right hand ended in a crude mechanical device.

"Fortunately, we happen to have the fine service of several former Imperial intelligence agents, who let me know everything." He turned to look at the sweating lieutenant in charge of operations on the Drogen shipyards. "Hak'klo, my dear dear Hak'klo, I thought that by taking your hand I was teaching you a lesson. But this? Why?"

"Because you are insane!" Hak'klo spit out. His eyes were wild with fear and he stank of stale sweat.

The short crimelord only smiled at the accusation. "That may be true, but you are a traitor, and there is only one way to deal with traitors."

"Are you going to kill me?"

"No." The statement ran through the room like a shockwave, stunning all who heard it. Including the doomed twi'lek.

"Y-you're n-not g-g-going t-to kill me?"

"No, I believe slow torture to just the point above death is in order. And once you reveal the names of who you were reporting our activity to, I'll let you live." Rylaa grinned as thousands of volts of electricity suddenly coursed through the twi'lek's body. He dropped to the ground, hard, and no one moved to help him. The agent holding a stun baton grabbed Hak'klo by his robes and began to drag him away.

"Boss, we have an update on one of our other problems," his intelligence officer said, handing over several sheets of flimsi.

"It had better be good news," Rylaa replied, taking the flimsi and glancing over them. "I'll be damned, this is good news. The New Republic have called off their investigation?"

"Yeah, apparently the chief in charge of the investigation received one of his daughter's fingers in a box with a note that said to stop looking into it. So they deleted their records and acted as if it never happened."

The crimelord looked up at his intelligence officer through his brows. "And the girl?"

"The rest of her was sent home to her father, unharmed."

"Good. Now about these Imperials. I want a general call to all our pirate affiliates. Promise them whatever you have to but I will have that Imp bastard's head on my desk when we are through!" This last statement was punctuated by the slamming of his fist on his desk. The assembled lieutenants nodded and began to shuffle out as Rylaa's aged secretary casually walked through the door. Though hardened criminals all, his men gave Helga wide berth. The last thing they needed was a tongue lashing by the stern matron that lorded over her bosses schedule in all thing above, and below, the limit of the law.

"Sir," she said she just a hint of an unidentifiable accent, "We just had a brief transmit from Lorgal. They are almost to Coruscant."

"Excellent. Let him know that he his to carry out his secondary mission there. He knows what I am talking about."

"Of course sir."

With Helga gone, Rylaa sat in his large dewback leather chair and rubbed his brows. It was so much easier when it was just him, with nothing else to worry about except where the next credit was coming from. But such is the price of power, the price that all must pay in one form or another.

---

"Stepping In, Stepping Out, Part 1"
By: Liam Zaneth
Yelara Neerou
Va'Lesh Zaneth
Dame Oot Kovan

Location: Royal Palace of Arcadia
Date: Selene 18, 5 ABY

***

They stood side by side in the tallest tower of the Jedi Temple. Recently repaired, it now served as a location for reflection, meditation, and observation. Now, Masters Liam Zaneth and Koran Darr stood overlooking the forest that spread below the Temple.

"Are you certain there is no one else," Liam asked of the head of the Jedi Council.

"If there were, I wouldn't pull you from the Palace," Koran said. "While I trust Padawan Sorenne, I am not certain she is ready to do this on her own, and neither is her Master. As well, Dargus has insisted on accompanying her due to a debt he owes the family. You're the only one left."

"What about Master Novix," Liam asked and saw the answer on Koran's face.

"I wish I could, but he is too new to the Temple, and I do not think it would be best to send him away. I had thought to send him to represent the Jedi in the Palace while you're gone."

Liam nodded. "I guess that is it then," he said. "When are they planning to leave?"

"You probably have three hours before the meeting," Koran said. "It gives you time to inform Yelara, if you'd like."

"I would like," Liam said. "Will you tell Talara and Dargus that I will meet them at the meeting?"

Koran gave a nod. "I will. May the Force be with you, Liam."

"You as well," Liam said with a bow. "I'll see you soon. Keep this place in one piece without me."

"I'll do what I can," Koran Darr said with a laugh.

Liam turned away and started down to his room to gather some of his belongings for the trip. He wasn't happy about his assignment, but he saw no point in fretting. He would be home soon enough.

***

After grabbing his belongings from his room, Liam took his aethersprite from the hangar and made for the Palace. The trip was fast in the small ship and soon he was striding through the Palace once more. His destination was Yelara's rooms. No one stood in his way until he reached her door.

As he expected, he found Meer'esh there. "I need to speak with Yelara," he said.

Still reticent following Yelara's reprimand the following evening, Meer'esh silently stepped aside and gave Liam passage. Before he entered Yelara's chambers, however, Meer'esh spoke, yet his tone was subdued. "She is bathing. I suggest you are keeping your eyes lowered when entering her room."

Liam nodded. "Thanks," he said and proceeded into the room. Once inside the room, he glanced around, then called out. "Yelara? It's Liam."

Instead of Yelara replying, a happy giggle erupted from within her bedroom. A familiar giggle. When Liam followed the joyful sound, he found Va'Lesh standing in his crib, beaming at his father.

"Why, hello there, little one," Liam said as he picked up his son. "You look like you're having a good day today. Where's Mama?"

"Wawa!" Va'Lesh announced, flapping his arms wildly.

From behind them, a gentle laugh drifted their way. "He means 'water'," explained Yelara, who was standing in the doorway to her bathroom in a long robe. Although still weak at times, Yelara had managed to regain her mobility, and had Kael Selrid to thank. She had already sent him a token of her gratitude in the form of a healthy monetary donation. But, it was well-deserved.

"You're looking great," Liam said with a smile for her. "Slightly damp, but great. How are you feeling?"

"Better," Yelara sighed, and padded towards her two men in barefeet. Each received a kiss, Leshie to his brow, and Liam to his cheek. She stepped back from Liam and scrubbed at her hair, creating messy spikes. "You left early this morning. A secret Jedi meeting?" Her smile was teasing.

"I needed to check in with the Council anyway, though Koran requested a meeting," he said. "And, that's partly one of the things I need to talk to you about. I'm being sent out on an assignment. It should only be a matter of days, and I'll be right back here. It's a trip to Coruscant to rescue the wives of two citizens of Tae'Karada who were taken by a so-called terrorist."

Expression gone suddenly concerned, Yelara whispered, "You're...you're leaving me? But who will I have to protect and advise me?"

"I'll only be gone for a few days," Liam said. "I wish it weren't so. While I'm gone, Master Baen Novix will be here. While he's not nearly as charming or good looking as I am, he is a good Jedi. I'll check in with you as often as I'm able."

"No!" Yelara exclaimed petulantly. "I don't want that man here. I don't want a stranger protecting me and my child. Your first duty is to your son and your High Princess." Her lips pressed thin and her eyes narrowed. "I forbid you to leave."

"Yelara, please," he whispered. "It will only be a few days, and then I'll be back. Meer'esh will also be here to keep you safe. The Grand Master of the Jedi Order has given me an assignment, and I cannot defy him. However, if you wished to speak with him, perhaps you could assure him that I am not needed on the mission."

Thrusting her chin in the air and folding both arms beneath her bosom, Yelara haughtily replied, "Perhaps I should do just that. This Grand Master believes his authority supercedes mine?" She chuckled dryly. "I'll show him otherwise." Brushing past Liam, Yelara stalked towards her comm unit, determined to have her way.

"As you will," Liam said with as graceful a bow as he could manage with Leshie in his arms. The elegance was only slightly marred by his son grabbing for his nose and succeeding.

Yelara was seated straight-backed and as nobly as she could manage at her comm terminal, awaiting the Jedi Master's response. He was prevented from doing so, however, when Yelara abruptly ended the call. Her head lowered and her posture wilted as Yelara came to her senses. "Your duty is first to the Order," she whispered. "I don't understand it...but I do accept it."

He came up behind her and gently placed a hand on her shoulder, caressing her neck with a finger. "This isn't my choice, Yelara," he whispered. "My preference would be to never leave your side, to be able to always be your friend, companion, advisor, and help you raise Leshie to be a good man. I have a responsibility to the Jedi Order, and it is times like these that test that to the limit. This is the very reason Jedi of old forswore any attachment, so they weren't forced to make decisions between love and duty. But, I promise you I will return as swiftly as I can, and hopefully will not have to leave your side again for a good long time after that."

She turned in the chair to gaze up at Liam, her eyes woeful and filled with regret. "Would it be different, Liam," Yelara asked softly, "if we were still lovers? Could you still so easily abandon me?"

"I wish you wouldn't think of it as abandonment," he said. "It will only be a few days and I'll be right back here. And, I believe it would be the same if we were still lovers because I know it will only be just a couple days before I'm back."

Yelara sighed irritably and swivelled back to the desk where she planted her elbows firmly, cradling her chin in both hands. "Then why don't you just leave already?" she muttered. "Stop tormenting me and leave. I can't wait forever for your return."

"I still have some time before I need to meet the others," Liam said. "But, if you still wish me to go, I will."

"You know I don't," she said, her voice small and tremulous. "I'm just...taken aback, that's all." Yelara glanced back at him, her pout still in place, but her eyes brightening a touch. "So...only two days?"

"Two or three from what Koran says," Liam said. "Just a quick trip into Coruscant, rescue the two women, and then back."

"Two women, hm?" She finally mustered a smile and held out a hand for Liam to aid her in rising. "So that's why you took on the mission, isn't it?"

"They are both married," Liam said with a laugh as he took her hand. "One of our Padawans is a friend to one of the men, and Dargus Kandran feels he owes the family a debt. Koran did not feel that Dargus was suitable enough supervision for the Padawan, and asked that I watch over them both."

Standing, and closely facing Liam now, Yelara quipped, "I'd rather you were watching over me.... Don't you?"

"I would prefer that as well," Liam said. "More than anything else. But orders are orders. And, this will give Meer'esh a chance to unwind some while I'm away. I promise to not be gone long."

She smiled and slid her hand through Liam's arm. "Let's talk on the terrace. Today promises to be a lovely one. And there are some things I'd like to discuss that others shouldn't hear." Her eyes glanced pointedly in the direction of her chamber door, where Meer'esh would still be standing guard.

Liam nodded and started toward the terrace, making certain that Yelara was alright as they walked together. She seemed much more steady on her feet, and did not need to lean upon him nearly as much as before. He gave her a warm smile as their son lay peacefully against his chest with the support of Liam's other arm.

"I love this breeze," Yelara sighed tranquilly. The sunlight warmed her face, allowing her to nearly forget that she was trapped within a palatial prison. "Days like this," she continued, "make me even more grateful for what Kael's done." Yelara chuckled, nudging Liam. "And you. Thank you for recommending him."

"He's very dedicated," Liam said. "It's fortunate that he chose to follow the path of the healer, though the reasons for the choice are quite tragic. His wife is unable to conceive a child because of something that was done to her. He's learned so much in so little time, and all for Raeila. Though, when he saw you walking the other day, he said he knew he was following the right path. I do hope he achieves his goal, and maybe then Leshie could have another little friend to play with." He gave Yelara a grin. "The view from here is magnificent."

"It is," she concurred softly, both standing at the rails and looking out upon the cityscape. "Kael...he's really very talented," Yelara mentioned after a time. "I think...I think he fixed more than just my legs."

Liam looked aside at her. "What do you mean?"

Coyly, she shrugged, yet with great significance Yelara's fingers slid down his arm silkily and over his hand gripping the railing. "I've been...remembering things." Cheeks colouring, Yelara elaborated. "Not sure where or when they happened, or if they ever really did...." Eyeing him sidelong, she asked, "Have we ever made love in an alleyway?"

Liam felt his face flush. "We did," he said. "Among other places. In the alleyway, that was on Turren. We had our honeymoon there. It was a very wild time."

"I know," she assured him. Her smile was notably mischievous. "I was there...and I don't think I was wearing panties."

Liam chuckled. "You didn't very often," he said with a laugh. "Is it a trickle of things remembered? Or is it coming back more frequently?"

"Mostly when I'm thinking of something else do the memories come back to me. For example...Va'Lesh's music bot was malfunctioning the other day and somehow...I took it apart, fixed it, and put it together again...and I have no idea how I did it!" She laughed softly in amazement. "I think it's all coming back, Liam. It just seems like I never forgot any of it at all."

"That's great," Liam said. "Hopefully everything will just be back, and you won't need treatments or anything similar. That's wonderful news."

Yelara's smile waned, Liam's apparent lack of enthusiasm puzzling and, at once, understandable. It seemed her rejection of him had extinguished whatever fire he still felt for her. And she didn't blame him. Withdrawing her hand casually, Yelara gave a flat chuckle as she said, "Well...even if the memories do stop, at least I can be sure that I've had a very interesting life. But" --she held open her arms for Va'Lesh-- "I don't want to keep you. The sooner you leave, the sooner you return, right?"

Liam frowned as he passed Leshie to his mother. "Something's wrong," he said, concern clear on his face. "What's wrong, Yelara?" Through the Force, however, he knew. He could feel her disappointment. Taking a step closer, perhaps too close, he said, "I can't express the joy I feel over your recovery, Yel. Were we alone, I would take you into my arms and swing you around. Were there a hope of a future for us, I might wish to seek out an alleyway somewhere for old times sake, and new." He brought a hand to her cheek and hoped that through the bond that still existed between him, she could feel what he felt. "I can't even leave until they finish their meeting, and I still have a little time before that begins. Besides, unless you'd prefer otherwise, I'd like to remain here with you until the last possible moment."

Her breath caught. Whereas previously Yelara would have shrank from his touch, she was perplexed by the sensation of pure excitement she experienced. Yelara covered his hand with hers, savouring the warmth of his. "This is confusing," she told him breathlessly. "Everything's changing so suddenly...I'm afraid to express or act on how I feel. How do I know what's real, Liam, and what are just memories?"

He shook his head. "I don't know," he whispered. "Maybe this time away will be good, help you sort it out. I don't want to leave, Yelara, but maybe it will help...somehow. I...my feelings for you have not changed, but I do not want to come between you and Meer'esh." He could not put voice to the rest, that if she wished for him to be her lover again, he would not hesitate. He had already stepped too close to the edge, gotten too close to the feelings he had tried to bury within himself. His love for her could never, would never fade, but to allow himself to feel that love too deeply would reopen the wounds that had been made when she was taken from him. He could not selfishly try to pull him to her, however. He would not try to lead her to the outcome his heart desired. She would have to make that decision on her own and he would only guide as much as he could without giving his own heart voice. "I don't know how much I can help you to tell from what's real and what's a memory, but I will do all I can."

Their eyes locked and Yelara's heart fluttered. Her feelings for Meer'esh were confused and their relationship strained since Liam's appearance at the palace; but, there was no way to fully love Meer'esh if she could not ensure her passion for Liam was merely a remnant of their past love. "Kiss me," spilled from Yelara's trembling lips before she was cognizant of it. "It's one sure way to know...."

Liam felt like the terrace had been pulled out from under them. He leaned in slowly, eyes fully caught within her gaze and brushed his lips against hers. It had been so very long, but now it felt as if their last kiss had only been yesterday.

For Yelara it was now impossible to cower behind convenient excuses of uncertainty meant to keep distance between them - her lips eagerly seeking his was in itself a confession of what she'd been denying to him for months, and to herself. Her one hand clutched at the front of his tunic, while his own buried itself in her dark hair. Even the opening of her chamber doors and the risk of being discovered wasn't enough to pull them apart; Yelara only felt herself being drawn in closer to Liam's tall, solid body. She whimpered - half a sob of joy and relief, the other half yearning.

Part of Liam wanted to give himself over fully to the kiss, heedless of any of the number of people in the palace who could catch them. For just a few seconds, he had given himself to her completely and hadn't felt so complete in a very long time. It would be so very easy to throw all caution to the wind, but he knew that the situation was far more complex than that. A warning through the Force pulled his lips from hers just before a voice from the other room called Yelara's name. Oot Kovan stood just inside the room, her gaze deliberately elsewhere. Liam gave Yel a secret smile. "I love you, my Kestrel," he whispered for only her. "I...I think we...we have to figure out what next...after..."

Her chest rising and falling heavily from the exertion of their passionate engagement, Yelara smiled and murmured, "After...." Va'Lesh shrieked and bounced, obviously ecstatic over the reunion. Yelara and Liam both laughing, sharing in their son's joy, stepped apart to create a respectable distance as they turned to Oot. Their hands remained linked. "Dame Kovan...." Her mind was a dizzying blur of thoughts, not one coming into focus. She could find nothing more to say.

Oot gave her a smile. "You're looking much your old self today," she said with a hint of a wink. "I was merely stopping by to see how you were doing, and to inquire if you thought you might be up for meetings tomorrow. If not, I fully understand, but just wanted to check with you before telling the rest whether they should show up tomorrow. Though, I must say the Palace has seemed much more pleasant with a bunch of stubborn old men arguing over everything."

"I'll be ready," Yelara answered, laughter still in her voice. "Even later today, if there's anything of immediate concern we need to debate."

"I'll check in with them and see if they have anything for an agenda," Oot said. "If they do, I'll let you know. If not, we can meet in the morning tomorrow. If that is alright?"

"Yes, it still is," Yelara reiterated, watching the Twi'lek in amusement. "Are you distracted, Dame Kovan? I feel our conversation is repeating itself."

"Perhaps," Oot said. "I was just revising for updated data. If you have something you wish to bring up at the meeting, I'll just call in everyone. But, with as much as they grouse, I didn't want to call them all in if there wasn't going to be enough on the agenda for them to feel it was worth their while to come in."

Yelara and the Twi'lek shared a knowing, meaningful look, then Yelara tipped her head in acknowledgement. "That sounds agreeable. Is there anything else?"

"Nothing else," Oot said with a smile. "I shall see you later, Your Grace. And, Meer'esh was looking quite anxious out at the door when I came in, though I left Kambra there to keep him company."

"I am much obliged for that," Yelara answered. "Liam's time here is short, so I would appreciate it if we were not disturbed."

"Of course," Oot said with a smile. "I'll make certain that no one disturbs you."

"Thank you," Yelara told her emphatically, then gazed up at Liam fondly. "I need some time alone with my husband and son."

Oot smiled knowingly at Yelara, making a special note of how she referred to Liam. "Enjoy your time together," she said. With a bow, she started toward the door.

---

"Stepping In, Stepping Out, Part 2"
By: Liam Zaneth
Yelara Zaneth
Va'Lesh Zaneth
Meer'esh

Location: Royal Palace of Arcadia
Date: Selene 18, 5 ABY

***

"Oh, she saw us," Yelara muttered to Liam through her teeth as she smiled at Oot's retreating back. "Most definitely."

"Yes, she did," Liam said softly. "Though, I think it's fortunate she's on our side. I don't think she'll say a word to anyone. I think we're safe for now."

"Safe?" Grinning impishly, Yelara turned to Liam and laid her palm against his chest. "Safe from what? Is there to be more than a kiss?"

Liam laughed softly. "I was thinking safe from the word spreading that we were out here on your terrace kissing. Did you have more planned than a kiss?" There was wonder in his eyes as he looked at her. "Though, I think before anything more does happen, we need to talk about this."

"What's to talk about?" she asked insistently, her eyes shining with mirth. "If I give this any more thought, how do either of us know I won't change my mind or...or forget everything all over again!"

Liam smiled at her and brushed his lips against her forehead. "I just...what will you tell Meer'esh?"

"I don't-- Do I have to?" Yelara frowned. "Maybe I should wait. After my talk with him, he's been keeping his distance. Perhaps I won't have to tell him anything at all."

"You'll need to say something to him at some point, especially if he still believes you're involved in a relationship with him. If he sees us together, I'm sure he will be upset."

"Our relationship could cause more problems with your position on the ruling council than with Meer'esh," Yelara pointed out seriously. "With as paranoid and temperamental as many of the council members are, knowing we're involved will undoubtedly cause many to cry foul. Which is understandable," she continued, her smile returning and playfully as Yelara smoothed her hand across his chest, "for how could I possibly deny you anything?"

"Oh, I can think of a few times you denied me something," Liam said with a mischievous grin. "Though, I think it was just because you were teasing me. Do you want our relationship to be a secret, Yel?"

"It's not that I want it to be...but it may be necessary for a time. Or," she suggested, though reluctantly, "until you resign your position on the council and have another Master from the temple replace you."

"We can make those arrangements when I return from this assignment," Liam said. "I will discuss the matter with Koran upon my return."

Yelara was momentarily taken aback by his quick decision. "Your position on the council isn't important to you? You have very strong opinions, Liam...and they often hold merit. I value your advice...even if I've sometimes neglected to listen to you," she admitted guiltily.

"And, will my advice hold any less merit if I am no longer on the council here?" he asked with a knowing look. "If we want to be together, and my position on your council is going to interfere with that, then we only have two options: we do not continue our relationship, or I resign from the seat on the council."

"And will you be allowed to remain here if another Jedi replaces you? Won't you be recalled to fill that new vacancy?"

Liam thought about that for a moment as he adjusted Leshie's shirt. "Perhaps we could find another official use for me here. As a Master Jedi, I do have considerable freedom in my actions, but may be required to attend more assignments. We shall see though. I am certain we can come up with a variety of options for what to do with me."

Her smile was unwholesome and enticing as Yelara quipped, "I have an idea or two...but it would require you to abandon clothing entirely."

Liam laughed aloud. "Oh, my love, I have missed you. Now I really wish I didn't have to leave, but when I return, I will come here first."

"Right away." And reveling in the contentment Liam's proximity brought to her now, when days ago she would have allowed herself nothing more than a press of her hand to his, Yelara eagerly kissed Liam's lips while flattening against him. Va'Lesh cried out in what translated as triumph.

When the kiss finally did end, Leshie was flapping his arms happily in between his parents. "I think he knows," Liam said. "Don't you, Lesh? You know what's happening, don't you? It's a happy time, for certain."

"And an exhausting one," Yelara decided. "We have a lot to discuss...and a lot to catch up on. Along with the good memories, I'm remembering even more of the bad ones. It's" --she sighed deeply-- "overwhelming."

"I'm sure it is," Liam said. "I know I'll be gone for the next few days, but over the HoloNet, and once I'm back, I'll do everything I can to help. I hope you feel you can talk to me about it."

Yelara cocked an eyebrow at Liam and reminded him, "We made a child together, Liam. If I can't talk to you, then our marriage would have been doomed even if I hadn't died."

Liam laughed. "Very true. We probably won't have much time before I have to go though, but when I return, I'm completely yours. Maybe talking to Koran will have to wait."

"Good, because when you do return, I'm going to have the biggest feast prepared for us - like nothing we've encountered before." Shrugging, she happily explained, "Being High Princess comes with its perks."

"I think I'm going to like being married to the High Princess," Liam said with an even wider grin. "I should probably be going now, but I'll return as soon as I'm able. Keep yourself and our son safe, my Kestrel."

"Already?" she whispered sullenly, clinging to Liam's cloak to prevent him from departing. "I'll be miserable not being able to see you for so long. Will it always be like this?"

"I hope not," Liam said. "I'll make whatever changes I can to make certain we can always be close."

Interrupting Yelara's reply, Leshie giggled and patted his father's cheek affectionately. Yelara laughed, her concerns lifted in the face of her son's adoration. "I guess I'll have to settle for that. This mission...it won't be dangerous, will it?"

He shook his head. "From what I've heard of the mission so far, not dangerous for us. The people we're going up against, however, it will probably be quite dangerous for them."

"What do you mean?" she asked with grave concern. "What kind of mission is this, Liam? Are you going to--" Yelara swallowed hard. "Will you have to harm someone?"

"I hope not," Liam said. "Two women were kidnapped, and they were tracked to Coruscant. My job is mainly to make sure Dargus and Talara accord themselves as Jedi Knights. Hopefully we shouldn't have to hurt anyone to get them out."

"Dargus?" she asked incredulously, stepping back from Liam in shock. "He's going with you? Do you remember what he did to us? How can you possibly trust him?"

"I don't," Liam said. "But I'm going to be watching him and making sure he doesn't do anything. Essentially, Koran wants me to watch over Talara and make sure Dargus doesn't do anything un-Jedi."

"If there's a risk he will, why allow him to join you at all? Liam," she urged him fearfully, "I remember what he did to me - to us! I know whatever he's professing about himself now is a lie. I know it, and I'm not a Jedi!"

"He feels different through the Force, somehow," Liam said. "And, it wouldn't be right for us to just assume his guilt. We've been forced to give him the benefit of the doubt, and to watch him very closely. I can't say for certain if he truly has changed, or if he found a way to mask the real him through the Force. Please know that I am very careful in dealing with him, and we watch his every move."

Yelara sighed, shaking her head in disbelief. "You've just made me that much more nervous about all this. I mean...what better way for him to finally get rid of you than on a ship confined to space, where there's nowhere to run?"

"It will be alright, my love," Liam said. "Dargus, if he does turn on me, will also be confined on the ship. If it comes to it, Talara is a formidable duelist. And, I do not believe the others will be so easy to silence. And, I am vigilant to anything he may wish to try." He took her hand into his. "I promise you I will be fine through this, Yelara. I promise."

Her compulsion to protest seemed to deflate with Liam's assurances, and his resolve. Nothing she could say would change his mind, which meant Yelara was left only with trusting him to return home safely. Smiling wanly, Yelara squeezed Liam's hand. "You'll comm me frequently? No matter the hour?"

"I will," Liam said. "I'll comm you as frequently as I'm able. Once we get to Coruscant, the Holo-Net signal should even be stronger."

"Then I'll be waiting to hear from you," she whispered ardently. "Be careful, okay?"

"I will," Liam said as he kissed her. "I've got a wife and son to come back to. I'll be more careful than I've ever been before."

"Then," she informed him with a sultry smile and caress to his cheek, "I'll be waiting here for you when you return...with a big surprise. After all...we haven't been together for a long" --she kissed his throat, then dragged her lips upwards to his ear-- "long time. We have much to catch up on."

"You make it very difficult to leave here, you know," Liam said with a low chuckle. "Though, it does give me something to look forward to when I return. I just hope that taste is enough to last me for the next couple days. I love you, my Kestrel." He shifted enough to catch her lips with his own. The kiss seemed to smolder, and when it finally ended, both were breathless. "I'll be home soon."

"Then I'll be waiting." Yelara took an uncooperative Leshie from his father's arms, the child reaching desperately for Liam. She stroked their son's hair to soothe him, but only Liam's reassurances would do. Once he was sufficiently placated, Yelara looked again to Liam and adoringly confessed, "I knew I always loved you, Liam, even when I denied that I felt anything even remotely similar to love for you...but it's only now that I'm realizing how much so I truly feel for you. I'm sorry for ever making you think otherwise."

"In my heart, I always knew," Liam said. "I think it's what kept me close, even when things weren't going well between us." He kissed Leshie atop his head. "Stay safe, and I'll be back before you even know I'm gone."

Yelara nodded, mustering a smile. "Good luck. I'll be waiting for your comm. Just don't do anything brave."

Liam leaned in one last time to share a kiss with Yelara. Once it ended, he turned and started toward the door, knowing that if he didn't he would never be able to leave. "I'll return soon," he said as he moved away.

"So you say," she teased fondly, and followed Liam only to the door, resisting the desire to continue with him out and onto the mission, if necessary - anything to be with him rather than without. Yelara was relieved when Liam did open the door and Meer'esh was nowhere to be found. She exhaled deeply, then smiled so that it was the last thing Liam saw before departing. Leshie sulked and called to his father. "Don't forget to bring your boy a souvenir, or he'll never forgive you."

Liam gave his son a warm smile. "I couldn't not get him something special," he said. "And for his mother." He raised a hand to wave to both, and quickly strode off, knowing that if he didn't he'd never make it out the palace gates.

Yelara, too, had to turn her back, though Leshie reached both arms over her shoulders towards his father. "It's okay," she told him soothingly. "He'll be home soon. Then we'll be a family, won't we?" And kissing his cheek, Yelara retreated into her chambers once again, unaware of the silent, ghostly figure listening behind one of the large columns comprising part of the colonnade lining Yelara's private wing. Icy violet eyes sizzled as they followed Liam's departure - the Jedi's joy seemed to be radiating from him and combined with Yelara's statement, Meer'esh just knew his worst fear had been realized.

Once Yelara's door sealed fast and Liam was safely out of sight, Meer'esh slithered out of the darkness. Rushing from the wing, he plotted and puzzled over what his next step should be. One thing he was certain was that he required a meeting with a particular woman, and one who held the decision to whether Yelara would live or die. If Meer'esh couldn't dispose of the Jedi, or convince Yelara to do so, he would have little choice but to carry out his master's sinister wishes.

---

"Unexpected Friend"
By Omri Kedemoth
Tal Harak- Zabrak Bartender (NPC)

Location: Drogen Shipyards
Date: Selene 18, 5 ABY

***

Omri had spent most of the day in a daze. He was convinced that the woman he saw in the bar last night was Kai. But he could not fathom how it could be, since his wife was reported killed by a bounty hunter almost a year ago.

His gut wrenched as he tried to get his head around the implications. If she was not dead, why didn't she try to contact him? Why did she bolt when he saw her last night? She had recognized him, he saw it in her eyes.

He intended to go back to Dirg's Descent that evening. Maybe the bartender would know something, maybe the drug dealer she was meeting with would show up, though Omri was sure he scared him pretty good.

***

The hoverlift opened onto level 236. Omri again entered Dirg's Descent, this time finding an empty stool at the bar. Several of the customers who had witnessed the incident the night before shook their heads and muttered to their cohorts. The bartender was the same one working last night, a dark-skinned zabrak. He approached Omri, eyeing him.

"We're not going to have any trouble like last night, are we nexi?"

Omri was impressed. Not many outside of the Sacorria system would recognize a nexi warrior.

The zabrak caught the surprised look. "The facial tattoos," he said, gesturing towards the symbols etched in dark green on Omri's face, "and the sword."

Omri nodded and smiled slightly, unconsciously resting his hand on the pommel of his sword.

"What can I get for you?"

"Alclanian Coffee", Omri replied. "And maybe some information."

"Hmmm." The barkeep smiled as if he already knew the question. "About the woman?" he quipped, pouring the thick, pungent liquid into a heavy mug.

"Yes" Omri paused. Taking the proffered drink. "I believe she is someone I used to know".

"Seemed like she remembered you", the zabrak said with a chuckle.

"It's very important that I find her, she is . . .very important to me." He was waiting for the universal grease my palm gesture from the bartender, but it never came.

The zabrak eyed Omri for a moment, as if mentally weighing something. "She came in here a couple days ago with some regulars, the crew of a freighter called Stellarkart." The barkeep offered, not looking up from the glass he was wiping. "Now, let me ask you a question." He asked, continuing to clean several glasses. "Is she wanted by the law or by the crimelords?"

"What, her? No, nothing like that. She was. . .," Omri paused, taking a long draught of the strong, bitter coffee. He weighed the risk of telling the barkeep everything. Well, right now he had no one else. After all, isn't that what people do all over the galaxy, spill their guts to bartenders? That's why they know everything. He felt like he was making a friend here. He decided to continue. "She is, or was, my wife"

The zabrak nodded smugly. "Hmmm, what was it, she cheated on you, you cheated on her or you beat her or ...?"

Omri interrupted, "She died."

---

"Foolhardy Rescue"
By: Zale Tregat
Moril Astren
Lerrah Breijal
Keeve Shivral
Elf
Talara Sorenne
Dargus Kandran
Liam Zaneth
Kallia Brael
Saris

Location: Various
Date: Selene 18, 5 ABY

***

Zale Tregat looked up from the report in front of him and around at the table to those going on the mission. There were so many things that could go wrong if steps in the plan were missed. This whole thing could be certain doom for any one of them. Could be. If they didn't rescue Kaysa and Maeren, it would be certain doom for them.

"It looks like the plans are fairly finalized," Zale said as he glanced around. "Moril, where did you get the ship we're using again?"

A half smile curled Moril's lips. "Pilot's one of the best around, and she doesn't come cheap. Thankfully, she believes our cause is a worthy one, and has opted to work for nothing."

"Well, how very noble," Zale said. "You've run security checks on her?"

Moril gave him a look that said, "How long have I been doing this?"

"Okay, okay," Zale said, holding up his hands in defeat. "I'll leave it to you."

"Before we get out of here, was there anything else anyone needed to--"

The door to the office opened and Lerrah Breijal strode through dressed in a flight suit. "Pride's ready to go and waiting up top in the rooftop docking area," she said.

Zale gaped as she moved and took a seat. "Pilot?" he asked Moril.

Moril gave him a wide grin. "Pilot."

"Anything else anyone needed to--" Zale quickly checked the door to make certain no one was going to come bursting through. "Needed to discuss before we get ourselves out of here?"

Keeve raised his hand and asked before being addressed, "Are we going to have food on this trip or did no one think of that?"

"The Pride has a full galley," Lerrah said. "I've got more than enough food stocked for the trip, and Elf has become a marvelous cook."

"Elf?" Keeve echoed. "You've still got him? He's coming along?"

Lerrah grinned at Keeve. "Still do, and yes. I'm sure he'll be happy to see you again."

Keeve smiled in reminiscence of his first best friend. "Yeah...me too."

"Okay, unless there's anything else," Zale said into the sudden silence following Lerrah and Keeve's reacquainting, "let's go ahead and get moving."

Instead of everyone moving, however, the doors opened one more time to reveal Jedi Padawan Talara Sorenne. "If you're going after Kaysa and Maeren, you'll need some extra help."

Following her through the door, dressed in Jedi robes were also Dargus Kandran and Liam Zaneth.

"I guess we don't need our security personnel after all," Moril said with an innocent smile.

"You had something to do with this, didn't you," Zale asked.

"I didn't, no," Moril said. "I am completely innocent." At his side, Saris blushed.

"Tala?" Keeve queried as he pushed out of his chair and approached. "What are you doing here? And don't even think of telling me you're coming!"

"If it'll help you deal with it better," Talara said, "then I won't say anything. This could be very dangerous Keeve, and I'm here to make sure you make it back to Kallia and Kim. I just wish Dargus and Master Zaneth hadn't insisted on going. Well, Dargus insisted. Master Darr told Master Zaneth to go to make sure we were okay."

Hands on hips, Keeve frowned down at Talara and informed her, "I don't need your protection. I can handle this. You just...go back to your lessons and we'll take care of things."

"I can help Maeren and Kaysa in ways you can't," Tala said. "I've been through what they're going through. I know what they're feeling. And, when we rescue them, I can help them in ways you can't because I've been there. Whether you believe it or not, Keeve, I can take care of myself. I want to help them. Please don't tell me to leave."

"And why shouldn't I?" he pressed, moving closer to add some privacy to their argument. "I'm trying to protect you, Tala. You've got so much you have to do; you really want your life to end this quickly and put a stop to everything you still have to achieve?"

"As a Jedi Knight, I will be called upon to take part in very many risky endeavours," Talara whispered, her eyes pleading. "I'm not going to die on this, Keeve. And neither are you or Maeren. I'm good at what I do, Keeve, please give me the chance to show you that I'm not a child who needs to be protected."

Keeve smirked teasingly at Tala and mentioned, "I've seen you half-naked; I know you're not a child anymore. So, no need to prove anything. Now will you change your mind?"

"No, I won't, Keeve," Talara said softly. She managed to blush at his words, since he had definitely seen her more than half naked. "I love you even more for trying to protect me, but I need to do this, for myself, for them, and because it's right. I am very capable and will be a good asset to this team." She watched him for a moment, took a breath, and continued. "If you stop trying to dissuade me from going, I promise to never ask for that kiss you still owe me."

Keeve went silent, glanced around the room to ensure there were no eavesdroppers, then leaned in closer and whispered, "You still remember that?" At her nod, Keeve searched her eyes, but could see no sign of her bluffing. Frowning, Keeve straightened and cleared his throat. "Fine. Do what you want. Just remember that I tried to change your mind, so don't go blaming me if you get hurt."

"I won't," Talara said. "And, at least you don't have to worry about kissing me now. That should make the trip easier."

Giving a snort, Keeve muttered sullenly, "I'm sure it will..." and straightened to nod in greeting at Liam and Dargus. "So, this was your idea then? You do know if anything happens to her...."

"She was heading out when I caught up to her," Dargus said. "I figured I'd better come along, just in case. And, while I'm sure I'm probably one of the last people Kaysa or Maeren would ever wish to see, at least I will be able to do some small bit of good here. While it will never be able to offset what I've already done to hurt them, I couldn't just sit back now."

Liam Zaneth held back a smirk at Dargus' words. "Jedi Master Koran Darr, head of the Jedi Council, asked that I accompany Dargus and Talara. Our presence here, is, as Dargus said, all because of Talara."

"Well, Talara better start minding her own business," Keeve admonished mildly, only glancing Talara's way. "In the meantime, I have a comm to make. I'll meet everyone at the ship."

Dargus chuckled as Keeve went off on his own. He could see Talara watching his once-adopted son, an unmistakable look in her eyes. She was dedicated to the Jedi Order, but the love she bore for Keeve was clear to anyone who chose to look. He had a feeling that Keeve saw it, but had already made his choice. He could also see that knowledge in Talara's eyes as well. Dargus Kandran was no stranger to loving someone and knowing that that love would never be returned.

One by one, all of those going to Coruscant to rescue Kaysa and Maeren from the clutches of Vrax Draydge filed out of the room and up toward the landing platform atop the building, except for Keeve.

***

Numerous comms to Kim's portable unit went unanswered, with each call Keeve's anxieties doubled. He would be leaving without seeing Kim, and if he didn't return there would be no one to convince her she hadn't been abandoned, that his participation in the mission was motivated by a desire only to start their lives together. He couldn't do that without tying up the loose ends of his failed marriage with Maeren. The others were waiting, but Keeve couldn't draw himself out of the stairwell and up the stairs leading to the rooftop. He had to try one last time, though. Perhaps they had missed each other - she had returned and somehow her comm hadn't picked up his signal.... The next call he made was to their apartment. If she was there, there might be time to visit her, even if it meant delaying their mission.

"Keeve," came the answer, though the voice did not belong to Kimara. Kallia Brael's face appeared in the frame of the vidscreen. "You still haven't gotten ahold of her, have you?"

"No," he answered, detectably crestfallen. "She was supposed to be back already. Maybe...maybe something's happened. I-I should stay, form a search party or something...."

"I'm sure she was delayed because of all the pirate activity, Keeve," Kallia said. "If she gets home while you're still in-system, I'll have her contact you before you're out of range. But, if you want to drop off the rescue team, I'm sure everyone will understand."

"Not Talara. She'll think I'm trying to avoid being confined in a ship with her...which is not entirely false."

"Because of her feelings for you," Kallia asked.

"Or...something like that," he muttered in admission. "But I still can't just drop out of the mission. I told Kim I'd do this for us. I just wish she were here so I wouldn't worry sick about her. Will you promise to tell her I tried to wait? That I didn't want to leave without telling her I loved her?"

"I'll tell her," Kallia said. "I'm sure she'll understand, Keeve. She knows this day has been coming, and she knows how much you love her. But, I'll make sure she hears it again."

Keeve sighed. "Thanks... And you'll tell the girls their daddy loves them and misses them?" Grinning, Keeve added, "And you'll tell their mother the same, right?"

"I promise I will," Kallia said. "I'll see you soon, Keeve. And, I'll keep everything under control here while you're away. I love you, Keeve. May the Force be with you."

"You Jedi always say that, but...you're still all alright," he quipped endearingly. "I won't be long, Kal. Goodbye and maybe I'll pick up a souvenir for you."

"I look forward to your return," Kallia said with a warm, loving smile. "And, don't forget souvenirs for your other girls as well."

"How could I?" And with a chuckle, Keeve terminated the connection, then slipped the comm into his jacket's inner pocket. With a heavy sigh and a heavy heart, he looked to the doorway above, dreading what he was forced to do next. "Sorry, Kim, but I'll make it up to you when I get back," he whispered to himself, and trudged up the stairs, wondering if he would be physically able to keep his promise.

***

Zale, Moril, and Saris were deep in a conversation over their plans to rescue Kaysa as Lerrah's Agarra's Pride sped toward Coruscant. While Talara had listened in, she had found little she could contribute to the discussion. Dargus Kandran was sleeping while Master Zaneth meditated. Dargus had decided to sleep after Lerrah had threatened to toss him out of the cockpit and let Elf use him to test some new conduit patches the Pride would be needing soon. While Dargus had already apologized for his past treatment of Lerrah, she had finally had enough of his apologies on his fourth time.

Tala had spent some time chatting with Lerrah, and found she really enjoyed the woman's company. It was a bit of embarrassment at first to realize that Lerrah and her lover had been the occupants of the room she had run through on the space station the other day. The same feeling that had nagged at her then still did. While Lerrah was pretty, she knew it wasn't that. She had a better control on her emotions than that, and it wasn't so much as a tingling as a shiver. Keeve made her tingle; with Lerrah, she felt a shiver.

Finally, Talara had excused herself to explore some more of the ship. She was drawn toward the sound of music, and found herself in the cargo bay where Keeve was sitting dejectedly on a crate while Lerrah's little astro droid comforted him with a song.

"Keeve," Talara said softly as she entered the room. "Want me to get you some food from the galley? You didn't get ahold of Kim, did you?"

"No," he grumped, "to both. I shouldn't have sent her off to begin with. What'll she think when she returns and I'm not there?"

"That you finally saw the light, realized you are madly in love with me, and we've run off together," Talara said as she sat down beside him. "Or, that you've gone off to rescue Maeren because the window of opportunity was there. Personally, I like the first choice, but the second sounds more plausible. Besides, Master Jae Dyn is still there to tell her where you went, isn't she?"

"Yeah," Keeve replied, and when it seemed he would sulk further, he instead hopped down from his crate to squat beside Elf. He smiled enigmatically at Talara as he whispered into the droid's auditory sensor. Elf tootled, and Keeve nodded. Soon, the little droid was whistling and chirping, the arrangement of notes creating a discernable melody. Keeve jumped in to whistle harmony, and when the song ended, he laughed and patted the droid's domed skull. "Still got it!"

"That was beautiful," Talara said between fits of laughter, as she clapped for both of them. "That was great, Keeve! I didn't know you were quite so musically talented."

"Oh, it's not me," he insisted. "Elf here's the real genius." To which the performing droid wonked and tooted his accord. "You should see him dance," Keeve whispered to Talara.

"Oh, I would like to see that," Tala said. "Do you dance with him, Keeve?"

He frowned playfully. "No. I don't dance, but be my guest." Keeve gestured to Elf, who hobbled exuberantly in place.

"He's very talented," Talara said with a grin. "And, I bet you're a better dancer than you think you are. Though, I doubt you could ever top Elf."

"With his charm, could anyone really?" Still smiling, Keeve moved back to Talara's side and plunked himself down atop the crate as Elf continued to perform for them. "Well," he sighed, "how are things going up there?"

"Dargus won't stop apologizing to Lerrah, Zale and the others are busy planning, Master Zaneth is meditating, and Lerrah is busily flying the ship. Everyone seems pretty anxious and they want to be doing something other than waiting. And, I'm just wandering around because I already meditated and ate and slept." She grinned at him. "Besides, I thought you might want a friend; well, another friend."

"Yeah," he murmured, watching her sidelong with skepticism, "a friend. Was it because I took you shopping? Is that why this all started again?"

"What started again, Keeve?" Talara asked. "I thought we were friends, and I like spending time with you. I know you're with Kim. And I know that we have no chance at all because you don't feel that way about me. I wish it weren't so and there was a chance for us, but that's not for me to say. But, I'm here because I'm your friend and can help, not because of a silly crush on you. And, I'm over that, by the way. I'm going to be a Jedi, so I don't have time for romance and stuff. You do want me to be your friend, right?"

"Well, I certainly don't want to take you to bed," he insisted crabbily. "If you're capable of that, then sure. Otherwise, we really need to reconsider...things."

"Have I tried to seduce you and wasn't aware of it," Talara asked him, a hint of incredulity in her voice. "Are you capable of being my friend without insisting I'm after more?"

"Yes!" Keeve whined, proving he truly was a ten year-old in a man's frame. "I just thought you might have come down here to get that kiss out of me. You're the one who brought that up, remember?"

"I will always love you, Keeve, but I'm not stupid. You don't love me, don't want me, and I get it. I'm not going to spend the rest of my life pining for you no matter how much I love you. I'm content to be your friend if that's all I can have from you, if that's all you can give me. I wanted the kiss, but...but you didn't want to give it and I couldn't just ask for it. I gave up on it to be here without you still fighting with me about it, and I don't think you'll ever know how much it hurt inside to do so. I just came down here to be with my friend. I hadn't even thought about kissing you, since I gave that up."

Lowering his head to conceal his shame and guilt, Keeve murmured, "I didn't think you really wanted it." It was an obvious lie and a pathetic one at that, but Keeve maintained it. "I know it was a promise, and I was going to stick to it..." Growling softly in frustration, Keeve shifted around to face Talara and explained, "You're not even fifteen! You're not supposed to be this sexual, Tala. I don't want to encourage that."

"Thanks to Ferrig, and Nieme and Dani, I am," she said gently. "It's part of who I am and part of who I will always be. But, I'm alright with that and I'm not going to change who I am." She looked up into his eyes. "I wanted it very much, Keeve, but it's probably best that I don't have it. I mean, if you kissed me and I liked it, and it was good, then I'd always know what I was missing. It's better to not know, to not be able to remember. And, besides, it's not like you wanted to kiss me."

His tone becoming gentle, Keeve told her, "That's not it.... It's not as if the thought of it was sickening or anything." Keeve paused to watch Elf spin atop his castors in an impressive twirl, then smiled apologetically at Talara and covered her hand with his. "Okay...we'll make a new deal. If you get out of this safe and alive...I'll give you that kiss. No matter what."

"You sure you want to do that," Tala asked. "You don't have to. I mean, it's alright. We can just be friends. But...but if you did want to, I...I wouldn't say no."

"It's just a kiss," he reminded her, his grin suave. "There's no problem at all."

"Oh, well...if it's just a kiss," Talara said, her cheeks flushing slightly. "I guess that's alright then. When we get out of this. Safe and sound."

"Just remember to remind me," Keeve teased, then he clapped as Elf's set ended, with the droid whistling expectantly. "The best yet, my little friend. I think you've got a hidden talent."

Elf beeped and booped and made a very close approximation to a bow.

Talara laughed. "He's great," she said. "The two of you could tour with that show. How long have you known each other?"

"Nearly half a year, I'd say." Keeve laughed softly to himself. "I was probably no taller than he is when we first met, but back then, he really was the only friend I had. It's odd, but a droid was about the only person I could relate to when I was a child." His smile was nostalgic and rueful at once. "He's still the best friend I have...mainly because he listens to what I have to say and doesn't seem to mind. That seems to be a good quality in a friend, doesn't it?"

"It is," Talara said with a smile. "I hope I listen to what you have to say and don't seem to mind."

"Do you?" Keeve inquired. "Mind, I mean. Even when it's talk about my love-life...."

"Even then," Talara said. "I'm your friend, and I'm happy to talk about whatever you need to talk about. Do you feel comfortable talking to me?"

He shrugged. "I...suppose so. I just get distracted sometimes." Keeve grinned. "I wonder whether you're undressing me in your mind or not."

"I've already seen everything you've got," Talara said with a grin. "You're not...when you look at me, do you?"

He snorted and hopped off his crate. "You'd like that.... So, while you're picturing me naked, do you mind keeping Elf company? I should catch up with Zale."

"I'll keep him company," Talara said as she watched Keeve. "Zale was with Moril and Saris in the galley when I came down here to see you."

"Then that's where I'll be if you need me." Passing Elf, Keeve patted his dome. "See you later!" To which Elf chirped in response. He paused in the hatchway before exiting, and glanced back at Talara. "Thanks for the visit. If you're brave enough...we'll talk again soon."

Tala grinned at him. "I'll see you soon, Keeve," she said. "And, I'll try to be brave."

Smirking, he quipped, "I'm sure you will...." Then, he bowed out of the cargo bay, cheerfully whistling the tune he and Elf had performed.

Talara turned back to Elf and watched him for a moment. "I envy your friendship with him," she said to the droid. "You can just be his friend and everything's alright. You don't have to worry that loving him is going to cause your friendship trouble. And...I can't help loving him."

Elf gave a solemn whistle before turning it into another song. If he could cheer up one friend, he could cheer up another.

***

Zale was a sharp strategist, that much Keeve was certain about; what was more, it seemed the best way to keep his mind off the grief he was obviously suffering through. This was the one time Keeve could relate to his surrogate father, and so it was lightly and with great care that Keeve slipped unobtrusively into the room to wait out the meeting's conclusion. He sat on the nearest bench and studied the lines of stress creasing Zale's brow and the corners of his eyes. Zale Tregat had aged much these past few months.

"I think that sounds like the best plan we've come up with so far," Moril was saying.

Saris agreed with him with a nod.

"Very good," Zale said with a weary sigh. "Let's get some rest. We'll go over it one more time with everyone just before we reach Coruscant."

Moril and Saris went off together, talking quietly as they disappeared into the small cabin they had claimed upon arriving on the ship. There was enough sleeping space for all, though each of the small cabins was definitely small.

Zale looked up as he tucked his datapad away in a pocket. "This should all be over soon," he said. "I just hope our story has a happy ending."

"Either way, at least we tried," Keeve said, attempting to sound optimistic. "Have you eaten yet? You'll need to...you know...build up your strength for when we arrive." He managed an awkward smile, unaccustomed to displaying such affectionate concern for Zale.

"Nothing substantial," Zale said. "I guess I should have something. I saw Elf in there working on something before. Do you suppose it's edible?"

"Um." Keeve grimaced. "Likely not. The only thing he knows is toast...unless you're in the mood for that."

"Not really," Zale said. "Well, I guess I should see what Lerrah's got stocked in the galley." He got up and started over to check. "Provided everything goes according to plan, this shouldn't be too bad, especially with the Jedi along."

"What's our plan exactly? We find them and rush in to attack, or do we go slow?" Keeve grinned. "I like fast...but that's because I'm impatient."

"Fast," Zale said. "We want to take them by surprise, and not give Vrax a chance to do anything. Lerrah will bring the ship up along the outside of their penthouse and we go in through the window. Shaza will be covering things from the other side."

"And she's seen them both?" Keeve asked. "They're both alright still?"

"Last report, which I got this morning before we started our meeting," Zale said, "she said they were both still alright. She thinks Vrax is getting nervous though."

Keeve tensed and watched Zale intently. "How does she know?"

"Because it's her job to be able to read people like that," Zale said.

"So this means they might be gone before we get there?" Keeve jumped to his feet in a panic. "We're going to lose them! We're so close and they're gonna slip through our fingers."

"What do you suggest," Zale asked calmly, though there was something dangerous and dark in his eyes.

"That we get there faster?" he said snarkily. "We should have left Tae'Karada the moment we knew of their location. Why did we wait so long!"

"Because we needed a plan," Zale said. "You're welcome to get out and push if you'd like, Keeve. The ship is in hyperspace and we're getting there as fast as we can. Even so, they won't just get away. Shaza's still on Coruscant and she's watching them."

"She can't save them on her own," Keeve told Zale with a dismissive wave as he sank back onto the bench. "Gods...doesn't this make you restless - all this waiting? I can't stand it anymore, Zale."

"There's nothing we can do but wait," Zale said. "But we will get there. And when we do, we'll get Kaysa and Maeren back, and make Vrax pay."

Keeve nodded, his anger assuaged by Zale's assurances. "I just don't want them slipping through our fingers," Keeve explained quietly. "I can't stay away long...I've got Kim and Kal waiting for me. I can't put everything on hold for too long...especially if it turns out they don't want to come back to us."

"I can't imagine that even Kaysa would choose Vrax," Zale said. "Things weren't great, but they weren't so bad that she'd choose him."

"But she did choose Cadwin," Keeve reminded Zale. "How's Vrax any different?"

"Trust me, Keeve, Cadwin was nothing like Vrax. Vrax is sick and twisted in ways that make the old Dargus seem like the new Dargus."

"No one's ever really explained to me the history between Vrax and Kaysa. Were they lovers ever?"

"They weren't," Zale said, "much to Vrax's chagrin. He used to work for her, pretty much as her right hand. I don't know all the details involved in their fall out, but he went over to Dargus for a time, and has been on his own since before you and Dargus. He's got a hard-on to hurt Maeren because she sliced up his hand when Vrax took Kaysa last time. According to Shaza, he's not hurt her." He left off any qualifiers, knowing that anything else he added would set Keeve off again. "This time, I'm planning to kill him and it'll be over. I'm tired of dealing with him, and I don't want us to spend the rest of our lives looking over our shoulders wondering if he's going to spring out of the shadows."

Keeve smiled tightly. "You're that afraid of him?"

"You'd be smart to fear the enemy you can't see," Zale said. "How do you fight what you can't see, Keeve? How do you kill what you can't get your hands on? Look what we've gone through over the last four months. Put me in a room with Vrax Draydge, and I'll tear him to pieces with my bare hands. Let him lurk out there somewhere where he can avoid me but hit everyone close to me, everyone dear to me, and I fear for my family and whatever sort of peaceful life we can make for ourselves. What sort of life do you think we can enjoy when he may slip out of the shadows and steal Kim away because she's the real thing, or Maeren because of what she did to his hand?"

"Don't say things like that," Keeve urged Zale quietly, his voice strained. "I...I haven't heard from Kim since she left for the run.... Do you really think he knows she's not a clone?"

"I have no way of knowing for sure," Zale said. "He was working for Dargus; I don't know if there was any way for him to know, but it is possible." Zale was quiet for a moment as he added ingredients into a pan. As he then added it to the heat, he turned to Keeve. "Don't make the mistake of underestimating your opponents, Keeve. And don't ever believe that you're not supposed to feel fear. The man who decides that being afraid is beneath him is a man about to be beaten."

"Gods," Keeve whispered, holding his head in both hands, "why did I send her off? I mean, what if he caught wind of her trip? What if he's snatched her up!"

"And what if nothing happened," Zale said. "To worry about what might have happened will tear you apart and pull your focus from where it should be. We need to keep focused on saving Kaysa and Maeren, and stopping Vrax."

"And we can't do that," Keeve pointed out, "until we get to Coruscant. And until then, I'm still allowed to feel guilt over selfishly sending Kim away, aren't I?"

Zale grinned. "Just as long as you don't fall apart and I'm stuck with a mess when we get to Coruscant."

With a scoffing wave, Keeve declared, "I will not fall apart. Though, I may whine and mope about for a while." He grinned mischievously.

Zale laughed. "Well, alright then," he said. "Until we get there, I suggest you try to rest."

Sighing, Keeve nodded grudgingly. "Alright...but do I get a sample of your gourmet fare first, Zaletregat?"

"Two more minutes," Zale said with a dramatic flourish, "and dinner is served."

"And while you do that...mind if I talk to you about something?"

"Of course," Zale said as he added seasoning into the pan.

Keeve cleared his throat and shifted uncomfortably on the bench. "Well...it's sorta...girl trouble," he mumbled.

Zale chuckled and nodded. "Not a conversation I ever expected to have with you," Zale said. "But, I do welcome it. What's the trouble?"

"Talara," he blurted out with a grand pout. "I think she's toying with me and trying to confuse me. She is completely in love with me, but wants me to think she isn't and makes me look like a fool when I call her on it!" He growled in frustration. "Why are women so crafty!?"

"I think it's part of their nature," Zale said. "I guess the easiest thing would be to not call her on it."

"So...ignore her?" Keeve gathered. "Even when she's picturing me naked?"

Zale laughed. "Why does it bother you what happens in her head," he asked. "You don't want a relationship with her, aren't interested in her in that way, so it shouldn't matter how she envisions you in her head. It won't even matter how you envision her. Now if she starts taking off all her clothes in your presence, that could be a problem. What she does in her own head shouldn't cause you to fret."

"It could if it shows in her eyes," Keeve explained. "And she's so evasive! She always turns the blame onto me when she's the one causing all the trouble. She's exactly like Kim!"

"I can see where that could be a problem," Zale said with a chuckle as he split the meal onto two plates. "So, when you look in her eyes, what do you see?"

Keeve frowned and grumped, "A little girl trying to drive me crazy by insisting she's a woman. She's only a kid! What does she think's gonna happen?"

"I can't say," Zale said as he set one of the plates before Keeve. "Though, it sounds like the part about driving you crazy is working. All I can really say is if she's making you uncomfortable, that you don't want to be around her, tell her."

"It's not that I don't want to be her friend," Keeve admitted. "We've been through a lot...and she's been through more. I think she could use someone to talk to...." Keeve grew quiet, and pensive, his own words striking a chord of dawning revelation. "She needs a friend," he repeated. "I have to be that for her and not let my stupidity get in the way." Grinning, Keeve nodded decisively. "That's what I'll do from now on. She's not after my body - she just wants a friend...at least that's what I'll tell myself." He chuckled at Zale. "You're pretty good at this being a mentor thing."

"I'm glad to hear that," Zale said. "I haven't had a lot of practice, but I've been through my fair share of similar things. Though, I guess that's what makes a mentor wise. Whenever you need someone to talk to, Keeve, just remember I'll always be here for you."

"Thanks." He smiled awkwardly. "You're...you're a good father, too, Zale. If you don't mind my calling you that," he added hastily.

"I don't mind at all," Zale said with a warm smile. "Friend, father, mentor, or just someone to vent at. You were a brat as a boy, but you've grown into a good man, and one I'm happy to know."

"That was your work. You spanked the discipline into me." Chuckling in remembrance, Keeve said, "Those were the good days, hm?"

"They were," Zale said as he took up a forkful of his food. "Though, you were still only eleven years old then. I imagine, things would be very different if you still were. Do you ever regret it?"

"Of course," was his forthright reply. "Life is far more complicated now. As a kid, I could be a brat, and it was cute. Now, if I even look like I'm about to pout or complain or cause trouble, Kim shuts me down. What fun is that?"

"Well, there are other things you and Kim get to do that are fun though," Zale said with a chuckle. "I guess it all evens out."

Chuckling knowingly, Keeve tucked into his own dish. As they ate, the two men reminisced about their past together, discussed their hopes and fears for the coming mission, and bonded as father and son should.

---

"Resolution"
By Omri Kedemoth
Sila - female human server at Dirg's Descent (NPC)

Location: Drogen Shipyards
Date: Selene 18, 5 ABY

***

The shadowy corner of Dirg's Descent wasn't dark enough for Omri. He hunched over a mug of bitter arkanian tea and a bowl of tafta nuts. He swirled the steamy tea around the mug a bit, deep in thought. His mood was dark. It had been four days since his encounter with Kai. Ever since he sulked about the station; angry, broken and frustrated.

"It's not my fault," he tried to counsel himself, but he didn't believe it. The woman he faced that night was not Kai, the woman he loved. But she once was. She had become a tortured and twisted soul. And she blamed him for it. He slammed the mug back on the table harder than he intended, and some of the hot contents slopped out onto his hand.

"Fargin' great," he muttered.

The server, a matronly middle-aged woman, stopped by his table. She was a tough old girl with a heart the size of a reek's. He had enjoyed getting to know her the past few days.

"How ya doing honey?" she asked, her tone warm and compassionate.

Omri looked up at her as he wiped his hand on his paints and gave her a smile. "I'm fine, thanks Sila."

"You need anything, you give me a holler, OK?" She said, tapping the table and pointing at him. Giving him a sympathetic smile, she moved on.

Omri looked around the room. It was early, and the evening crowd was just trickling in as the station's ship techs and mechanics came off shift. He noted a giant of a man at the bar, clad in armor and bearing the insignia of station security. Omri had never been a barfly, but Dirg's had become a kind of second home. "As if I had a first home!" Omri joked to himself.

Truth was, he had no home now. The Nexi were destroyed, there was nothing left to go back to on Sacorria. He had walked out on the Alliance after Kai's "death", he wasn't sure the New Republic would have him back. He didn't even like returning to his own ship, too many memories lingering. The maintenance on his hyperdrive was now complete, and he would have to decide where to go now. He had no idea where that would be.

His mind wandered back to the encounter with his wife. The freighter Stellerkart left early the next morning, presumably with Kai aboard. It would be difficult to track her, even if he had a mind to find her. A slight pang of guilt gripped him as he thought about letting Kai go, without trying to do something more. He was convinced she would rather see him dead than accept his help, she made that pretty clear. Maybe his Kai was still alive, deep within the soul of the hate-filled killer he met that night. But he knew he could not save her, not right now. It was time to move on.

Omri remembered the ancient nexi writings, To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under the heavens . . . a time to love and a time to hate, a time to lose and a time to gain, a time to keep, and a time to let go.

Omri stood up and motioned to Sila to add his drink to his tab, and headed toward the exit. He stepped aside as a group of thuggish types walked in. He saw the look in their eyes. There was going to be trouble. Omri thought about sticking around to see what would happen, but he was much too self absorbed tonight to stick out his neck. He continued out of the bar to disappear into the crowded promenade.

---