"Light Amidst Darkness, Part 2"
by Zion "The Worm" Xandler - Systems Operator
and Raeila Mullerin - Entrepreneur

Location: New Plouton
Date: Niothe 19, 4 ABY

***

As Raeila was waking up, Zion was already coming out of the bathroom wearing some large baggy black pants and an orange tight t-shirt with a large lightgrey longcoat and large metallic looking boots. His hair was white with a smiley on the back. "Hey, kitty cat. Did ya sleep well?"

Raeila nodded as she rubbed at her eyes and yawned. She pushed herself upright and blinked Zion - who was sitting on the bedside - into focus

"Listen, yesterday I held out something. I know a man that knows everything about everyone. He may know something about this guy you're lookin' for... So as soon as yer ready we can go."

"Sounds like a plan!" Raeila slipped off the bed and for the sake of customer satisfaction, kissed Zion upon the forehead, then went in search of her clothing. "Wasn't your hair red yesterday?" She found her wrinkled shirt on the other side of the bed and pulled it on. "You've got a very...unusual style, you know that?"

Zion laughed shortly as he ran his fingers through his hair. " 'Was' is the right term... Variety is the style for it, I guess!" he said noticing that she was about to dress in her regular clothing. "Hey, wait up! I got you some clothes. It would help you look more regular... I chose everything white. I guess it's a colour everyone likes!" He grinned, showing her some white tight pants and a white top with long black boots and a grey coat.

Raeila paused in stepping into her pants, and straightened up to appraise her new outfit. "Where'd you get that?" She kicked off her dusty, slightly tattered pants and walked up to Zion. "Nice," she commented with an approving nod. "My size too?"

"I should think so... I had them delivered early today for you. If we're goin' out you oughta look hotter than usual!" he said with a smile as she put them on. "They look good on ya! If ya want we can check out some more clothes in the street shops. I got credit in most of 'em anyways... While we look for this guy, of course!"

He turned around and grabbed his sunglasses. Putting them on he grinned. "Hungry? I'm starvin' here, so I thought we could get a bite t'eat in the Plateau. It's this place I know just around the corner. Great pastry I tell ya!"

Raeila ran her hands over the thin fabric of her shirt and smiled. "Yeah," she replied quietly. She looked up at Zion and stepped forward to slip her arm through his. "I haven't had a pastry in...years. I think I could go for one, or two." She reached up and kissed him upon the cheek. "Thanks for the outfit. You can take it outta my pay."

"That's a treat I offer..." he told her as he looked down on her from behind his mirrored glasses. "Just like the breakfast." He could tell that she was more or less appalled by his generosity. "I treat nicely those I like, and I admit that I like you, Raeila. You an independent person just like me!"

They went down and out the large building as the doorman held the door for them with a smile and a nod, but not a word. They got to another large building that looked more like a tower with a whole floor up in the top. "C'mon, the Plateau has a good view. Maybe we can get a seat by the windows!" Zion grinned as they made their way in and up the elevator. The Plateau was a well furnished place with glass tables and a bar at the farside wall. It was a circular room filled with windows all around it. Some tables were by them, making them the favourite ones because of the view. Luckily enough, Zion and Raeila got one of them.

Once seated, the waitress came by with a gentle nod and a good morning smile and gave them menues. Holding his hand up Zion dismissed the menu for himself. "I'll have the Pancake Special with moonberries and a double uvulla shake," he told the waitress. "And you my dear?" he asked Raeila.

Raeila studied her menu, making her best effort to appear as if she were reading through it, despite the words being a mess of jargon to her. One never took the time to learn reading in the desert; there was no one and no established institute to pass on such knowledge, and in a place where the only jobs available were either thieving or selling wares on the street, reading wasn't a priority on anyone's list. Raeila cleared her throat as she closed her menu and handed it to the waitress. "What he's having sounds good to me." The woman nodded and wended her way to the next table. "Nice place," Rae commented as she glanced around. "Expensive?"

"Affordable to most around this part of town..." Zion replied simply. "After this we can go downtown to meet that guy I know. It's not too far and if you want we can stop by at the clothing shops nearby."

"I really should get back to the desert. My brother will be wondering where I am," Raeila replied. She shifted her chair closer to Zion's so she could hear him better above the chatter in the restaurant. "Besides, you shouldn't be buying me clothes. I was your screw for the night, not your girlfriend. Don't waste your creds on me."

"Who said I was buyin'?!" he asked inquisitively. "I can get you discounts at the price they sell out to me for being a good customer, that's all!" Sighing he took a sip of his drink. "Look, why don't you finish up and we'll go meet this guy, and then I'll take you back. What do you say?"

"I say that's a better idea." Raeila looked at the glass of water in front of her and gave a quiet laugh. The Wetters seemed to enjoy wasting water, but then again, they could afford to with the abundance of it in their province.

The waitress arrived with their meals and once they were set down, Raeila swiped at her fork and held it in a grip more appropriate for holding a dagger. She stabbed at her sausage and bit off the end of it. While chewing it slowly, she gave Zion a sultry gaze. "I bet you wouldn't mind going back to your place and buying me for another night."

Zion laughed out loud. "That's a pretty safe bet!" he said. "But I thought you were the one who wanted to go back to the desert... Changed your mind?" he asked as he ate his meal. "Tell me Raeila, what would that cost me this time?"

"For me to stay another night?" Raeila chuckled dryly and gnawed at her sausage. "Firstly," she mumbled, "you wouldn't be able to afford it. Secondly, my brother would kill me if I completely disappeared for another day. Besides, depending on how helpful your friends are today, there might be more encounters in the future."

"Baby, you have no idea how well I can afford it..." he grinned. She probably didn't know what it was like to make the type of money he did. Funny, considering that both were in illegal activities. "But like I said before, you're the one who wants t'go back! So let's meet this guy I know and get ya back, 'kay? You ready t'go, baby?"

Raeila raised her finger to pause Zion as she shovelled her breakfast into her mouth. With cheeks protruding and chewing quickly, she ran the back of her hand across her mouth and stood up. "Ready!" she managed to mutter despite the food muffling her speech.

Zion laughed and got up, tossing more than necessary credits to pay the bill and cover a nice tip for the waitress. Taking Raeila's hand he walked back to the elevator and into the city streets. Going back to the apartment building where Zion lived, they went to get his swoop and drove to another part of town filled with clothing stores.

Zion parked his swoop, got out and motioned for Raeila to follow him into a rather small music record shop, compared to the large clothing ones. Inside the store trance music could be heard. A short man walked up to them with a smile. "Zion! Great to see you! Remember that music album you wanted? I just got it yesterday!"

"Hey there, Max... Listen, I need some info on someone. I understand you the man for that..." Zion said as he took a large amount of credits. "A man called Kael Selrid. You know anything?"

"No, no, no... I cannot accept money. Not from you. I still owe you favors, remember?" the man replied with a smile. "Now, let's see. Selrid. A blonde man that dresses in strange flowing robes. Very unfashionable! I hear he comes once in a while for provisions with more like him, but I'm not sure where he's at..."

Zion turned to Raeila. "Well, it seems your man is hard to come by..."

"He was always good at being elusive." Raeila sighed and stepped toward the man. "When was he last down here? I mean...is there some sort of routine he follows?"

"Not that I know of... I mean, they come around now and then and get some stuff. Food mostly. I reckon they're staying somewhere and only come when necessary and never before," Max sighed.

"I guess it means it's luck to find them then?!" Zion stated.

"I guess so..." Max nodded.

Zion turned to face Raeila. "Well, I guess now you wanna go home? C'mon, I'll take you..."

She waved Zion off and continued staring at the man. "I have to see him. Do you think you could contact Zion here if you happen to see him? Could you do that?"

"Of course... As a favour to Zion!" The man nodded, making a point on that he owed her nothing.

"Very well," Zion concurred. "Thanks, Max. We'll be on our way now, but I'll be back soon t'get those new albums!" he said with a smile, then taking Raeila outside. "I don't give favours free of charge, and this one will cost ya, sooner or later..." he said simply as he got back on his swoop.

"I know. We had a deal." Raeila mounted behind Zion and wrapped her arms around his waist. "But we didn't find my friend and that was part of the deal."

He twisted to look back to her. "I never promised we would! I said I'd try and if I hear from Max I'll be tellin' ya. But you'll still owe me, honey!" he said as he started the swoop.

"Fine!" Raeila hollered over the sound of the thrusters firing. "What do you want?"

"Nothing as of the moment... When the time comes I'll collect. Good enough?" he asked not waiting to hear her answer as he swooped down the streets and towards desert. On the way Zion could feel the hot air of the desert once more, but at the speed they went it wasn't so bad. It didn't take them too long to reach the smaller province.

"Here we are..." Zion said as he stopped the swoop and looked back at Raeila. "Is here okay or do you want me to let you off in a particular place?"

"No, here's fine," Raeila replied hastily. The last thing she needed was for him to bring her into the heart of Feltrey territory where any of the gangers could catch a glimpse of her with someone who was obviously a Wetter. She slid off the back of the swoop and smiled up at Zion. "Thanks for all your help. If you hear anything about my friend, you'll come and contact me immediately, right?"

"Sure thing, kitty cat!" Zion grinned. "Well, gotta go now... See ya around! If ya ever come by and wanna visit, feel free t'reach me!" he said as he started the swoop once more to go back. "Oh and here, take it. A gift..." he said as he tossed her a small portable mirror.

Raeila winced as the reflective material caught the glare of the sun and stabbed at her eyes. She moved it away from the angle of light and smiled at the image of herself upon it. "Thanks," she said softly. She gazed up at Zion, then quickly planted a kiss upon his cheek. "I have a feeling we may see each other again soon, Zion."

"I hope so... On the same basis or a better one!" He smiled as he accelerated and left the girl behind, crossing the desert path once more and finally heading back to the big province of New Plouton.

---

"No Going Back"
by Raeila Mullerin
and Ferrig Mullerin

Location: Thanatos, Tae'Karada
Date: Niothe 19, 4 ABY

***

The first thing Raeila made sure to do once she returned to the desert was to find some clothing more suited to a Kir'Thanan. The ones Zion had purchased for her were too finely tailored and clean, and would certainly arouse Ferrig's suspicions. She was slowly beginning to realize how impulsive and foolish jumping onto a stranger's swoop and going home with him had been, but it was even more idiotic to betray who she was by stepping foot on Wetter soil. Ferrig would never find out if she had a choice in the matter, but to even catch a glimpse of Kael, she knew she'd risk everything again and return to New Plouton to search for him.

She set her worries aside and stepped through the door of the Feltrey headquarters with a carefree smile upon her face. She waved to the boys gathered around a table and playing a lively game of cards. "Who's winning?"

The trio looked up from their game, blood drained from their faces, and they quickly shoved their attention back to the cards in their hands. A hush descended on the room, but all eyes were carefully diverted from where Raeila stood.

At the far end of the room, seated on the chair he'd claimed as his own, a throne for the king of the desert, sat Ferrig. The chair that normally rested next to it was on its side and kicked several meters off the low platform. When he saw her, Ferrig smiled. "Raeila," he said, his voice cheerful. "How are you doing, little sister? Everyone, go back to your games. It's alright. It's only Raeila. It truly is good to see you."

Raeila turned towards Ferrig, nothing amiss in her mind, and sauntered towards him. "You're looking better today, brother. How are you feeling?" She stopped before him and leaned forward to plant a kiss upon his cheek.

"Oh, I'm feeling quite fine," he said. "Though, I was starting to get a little worried. You didn't come home last night. That's not like you. You rarely spend an entire night away. I believe the last time was...well, I can't even remember the last time."

Raeila shrugged and set herself down onto Ferrig's lap. "I was working. I actually did pretty well too. I should've told you I wouldn't be coming home, but I guess I forgot."

"So, you worked all night then," Ferrig said. "And, most of the day actually. One client or many? I imagine for all that time, you must have made quite a bit of money. If I remember correctly, you're always very eager to get home and away from all the pawing, filthy wretches of Thanatos."

"Well, not when they pay like this." Raeila dug into the pocket of her cloak and pulled out a handful of creds. The chips spilled from her grip with Raeila giggling at the sight of them. "See?"

Ferrig smiled at the money and let out a low whistle. "A very productive night indeed. So, you got some Kir'thana to cough that up for a night with you?"

"Not one, many," Raeila corrected. "Gods, Ferrig, why so many questions? I made some money for us. Aren't you happy?"

"So, are you telling me you had the ingenious revelation yesterday to work all night and make more money? And, you haven't thought of this before?" Ferrig's eyes narrowed. "Who gave you this money? Which desert born man, or men gave you this money?"

Raeila jumped off of Ferrig's lap and stomped her foot petulantly on the floor. "What does it matter?! I got the money and that's that! Why are you interrogating me?"

Ferrig stood slowly, the power of his presence filling the room as he towered over his sister. His body was coiled and tense, as if a desert predator ready to strike. As he stood, the white garment he'd been seated upon came into view. One hand whipped around and snatched it up. He held it before her eyes and glowered at her.

Raeila's breath caught in her throat and her face flushed. Her reaction all but betrayed her guilt. "What-- What's that?" she asked, but the look in Ferrig's eyes clearly indicated he was tired of her lies. "Ferrig... I can explain everything."

Ferrig nodded slowly as he watched her, then motioned for her to continue.

Raeila took a deep breath to control the tremble in her voice, and also buying her time to think of an explanation. "One of my customers," she said haltingly. "He...he liked me, s-so he bought me something nice. He was only being kind, Ferrig. That's the truth, I swear."

"And, this customer was Kir'thana, right? He went to one of the shops here in town and bought it for you? Is this true?"

"I don't know! I didn't ask!" Raeila snapped. "What does it matter anyway where I got them? Why all these questions?"

His free hand flashed and caught Raeila across the cheek, sending her spinning away. "You are as damp as the Rat," Ferrig spat. "Get out of those desert clothes before you dishonour all Kir'thana. Put on your wetter rags! And, I swear to Thana and Domega and every other god that if you ever lie to me again, sweet sister, that I will cast you out into the streets of this pit and make certain that every one within one hundred kilometers knows that to get between your thighs will bring a very slow and painful death! I have cared for you and loved you for my entire life. I saved you from atrocities that would have destroyed you. I have kept you safe and given you everything I ever could." The torment pouring from him as tears streaked his cheeks was nearly tangible. "And, this is how you repay me? How could you, of all people, Raeila, betray me this way? Betray our hopes and dreams? How could you do this to me?"

Raeila held her hand to her cheek and stared agape at Ferrig. Her throat constricted and choked every breath, but it was the disappointment and agony in Ferrig's eyes that caused her to drop to her knees at his feet. "I didn't-- Ferrig, you don't understand. It's not like that! Please! I didn't betray you. Ferrig..."

Ferrig looked around at the gathered Feltreys. "Out," he growled. It didn't take them long to clear the room, leaving Raeila and Ferrig alone. "Then look into my eyes and tell me you weren't with a Wetter. Look into my eyes and tell me you weren't in their lands. Look into my eyes and tell me you didn't share your body with some wet scum. And, then tell me that you would never think of lying to your brother about it, and that you would never try to deceive him."

She could hold his gaze for only a moment before the tears obstructing her vision burned so fiercely, she had to clench her eyes shut to mitigate it. Her head sank in shame and defeat, and in a supplicating gesture she wrapped her arms around his legs and pressed her forehead to his feet. "You don't understand," she whispered hoarsely. "I had to. I had to do it." Her body shook with sobs that grew louder the more desperately she yearned for Ferrig's forgiveness, yet realized it would not be received. "I'm sorry. I'm sorry! Please. I'll do anything to make it up to you. Ferrig, please."

Pain tore at Ferrig as he watched her, and he could feel his heart shattering inside. But, he had to remain strong. She had consorted with a wetter, and that was too much. "Why did you do it?"

"I needed to go there. I needed to be close to where Kael was so that I could find him. I love him, Ferrig, and I needed to be with him again." She gazed up at her brother's implacable, hard expression and let loose with a convulsive wail. "Don't send me away, Ferrig! Don't make me go away! I'll be good from now on. I'll do whatever you tell me to do and I'll never disobey. I'll be the good, obedient woman I'm supposed to be, and make you happy, Ferrig. All for you. Everything for you, brother."

"Very well," Ferrig said. "I don't want you ever consorting with that kind again. And, next time you think about going with someone like that, Kael isn't going to show up in his bedroom." He smiled despite the anger he still felt inside, despite the betrayal. "I was scared out of my mind that something had happened to you. That one of the other gangs got you, or those Jedi."

Raeila whimpered and shook her head. "No. I can take care of myself, Ferrig. I was fine." She sniffled and passed her hand across her nose to wipe it dry. "You hit me. Why did you hit me? You said you'd never hurt me, Ferrig. Father used to hit us, remember? You're not-- Not gonna start becoming like him, are you?"

"Are you going to make it a habit of lying to me? And, betraying our vision? If you are, then I'm either gonna have to knock sense into you, or kick you out. Your choice."

"I won't lie to you," she said coldly. "You don't have to threaten me." Hastily, she wiped the tears from her eyes and unsteadily returned to her feet. "You won't hit me again, Ferrig. I swore that no one would ever hit me again, and that means you too." She wrapped her cloak tightly around her and stepped back, watching Ferrig with a glower. "I'm going out. Is that okay with you, brother dearest?"

Ferrig's features hardened once more and he nodded slowly. "Be my guest," he said. "If you ever lie to me again, I won't hit you, but I swear to you that you'll learn just how harsh the desert can be. You betrayed me, Raeila. You betrayed me and our cause. Things will never be the same again." With that, he strode away toward the front door.

Raeila listened to Ferrig stomping away and once the door slammed closed behind him, she scampered towards the scattering of creds upon the floor. She dropped to her knees and began gathering as many as she could as quickly as she could. If he wanted someone to beat on, he'd have to find someone else. She refused to let any man treat her that way, especially not the one who had sworn to always make her feel safe and loved.

Her pockets were filled with credit chips, enough to get her where she needed to be, to the man who truly would protect her and treat her as she deserved. Raeila pushed herself to her feet and swung around towards the door, but staggered to a halt and slowly turned back to Ferrig's throne where, draped over the armrest, was her wetter clothing. With a sneer, she swiped at the white outfit. If he was so convinced she was a Wetter, then she'd start dressing like one to give credence to his suspicions. But she wouldn't be around long enough to let him see her in them.

Raeila spat on the floor of Ferrig's humble palace, then turned on her heel and marched outside. Kael would love her, no matter where he thought her loyalties lay. She didn't need the desert, not anymore, not when there was no longer anything worth staying behind for. New Plouton would suit her needs just fine, and with the sum of creds in her pocket, she figured she could live comfortably for a while. Then, when she found Kael, everything would be perfect as it should be.

Raeila didn't look back as she trudged through the sands with resolve and determination. The only thing she would regret was not being able to see Ferrig pining for her day and night, praying to Thana for her safe return. Raeila snorted derisively. Oh, that would be a sight to see. It was too bad she wouldn't be around anymore to witness it.

---

"Changing of the Guard"
by Moff Albren Seare

Date: Niothe 19, 4ABY
Location: Yelldon District, New Plouton, Tae'Karada

***

"We are beginning our approach."

Moff Albren Seare looked up from the notes he was reading and gave a brisk nod to the pilot. "Very well," he said. "Are our people are ready?"

The man nodded. "They are, sir," he said. "Captain Silas Cordane has taken care of that. We should receive a welcome worthy of your arrival."

"But without the Grand Admiral," Seare said with a slight twist of a smile curling his lips. "I am certain Grand Admiral Tarkin has better things to do than to attend my arrival."

"Very well, sir," the pilot said.

"Have the other transports already delivered their cargos?"

The man seated to the pilot's right turned. "They have, my lord," he said. "The Walkers have been moved to the edge of the city, however there will be a strike of Scouts within. A full mobile battalion has been deployed for securing the city."

"And, the desert stronghold?"

"We have two battalions ready to move in for pacification manoeuvres."

"Very good," Seare said. "Have them move out in the morning. I want that entire area brought under Imperial rule as soon as possible. Once we have secured Thanatos and its vicinity, move against the Tae'Sollar region. It has taken far too long to bring this continent under Imperial control. That will change now, however."

"Yes, sir," the two junior officers said in unison.

***

As the Lambda-class shuttle set down in the heart of the New Plouton spaceport, all the assembled Imperial troops snapped to rigid attention. At the head of the first column of white-clad Imperial troops stood Captain Silas Cordane. The black pad with a single silver stripe made him captain of the assembled forces. To his left were the other battalion leaders, with their men in formation behind them.

With a heavy whir, the ramp of the shuttle began opening, and Cordane shifted his full attention to the man who would emerge.

Moff Albren Seare appeared, his eyes taking in all around him. He was clad in a black uniform and his rank was prominently worn above his heart. He was a thin man, but built powerfully. His piercing eyes seemed to see through the stormtrooper armour and into the men beneath.

He approached Captain Cordane, and the man snapped a salute. With casual grace, Seare returned the salute and a hint of a smile played at his lips. "I am Moff Albren Seare, out of Corellia. I now take command of the New Plouton forces, and assume the role of the new battle commander of this continent."

Cordane saluted once more, a sign of his acceptance.

"I will have orders for you and your men shortly. You are dismissed back to your duty. Captain, I will be able to walk safely down this street with no fear for my life by the end of the week, or there will be a new man standing in your place."

With that, Seare turned on a heel and marched down the column of troops. His people had already secured an office and quarters for him. Now all that was needed was for his men to do their jobs. And, that was what he was here to ensure.

---

"Generation Gap"
By: Yelara Zaneth
Kallia Brael
Yara Brael [NPC]
Leshie Zaneth [NPC]
and Orinth Neerou [NPC]

Location: The Scarlet Kestrel; Corellia
Date: Niothe 19, 4ABY

***

Sailing through hyperspace for three days had taken its toll on Yelara's stomach. Kallia had left a bucket by the bedside to keep her frequent, acidic messes from staining the deckplating. For the second time that day - or night, for it never was determinable what time of day it was in hyperspace - Yelara hung her head over the side of the bed and buried her face into the bucket. She heaved and gagged to purge what little food she had taken down for breakfast, and once she was utterly devoid of stomach contents, she rolled onto her back, groaning.

Yelara hoped they arrived at Corellia soon, both so she could get back on solid ground and so she could contact Liam. Adding to her nausea was now longing for her husband. She'd stopped pining for him by the second day, but with as miserable as her mood was now, she whimpered and began sobbing again, if only out of self-pity.

Kallia lay on the bed, resting on her side as she gently ran a hand along Yelara's arm. "Oh, Yelara. I wish there was something I could do about your space sickness. At least, do more than washing out the bucket. Do you want to try one of those tablets again? It might be better without food in your stomach."

"The tablets don't work," she muttered. "Nothing seems to work anymore, not our lives, not stupid happiness. Nothing."

"He'll be back soon," Kallia said softly. "It won't be long, and he'll be pulling you into his arms and squeezing you tight. Happiness is almost here, my love."

Yelara sighed and turned her head to face Kallia. "I know. I'm sorry, Kal. I just...hate flying, that's all. I'll be alright soon."

Kallia smiled. "Yes," she said. "Because we're going to be arriving today. I imagine we should be entering the Corellia system around mid-afternoon ship's time. And, then we'll be on the ground, and you can contact Liam."

Yelara shifted onto her side and cradled Kallia's cheek with her hand. "That can wait, my love. I don't want you to feel superfluous or unwanted. We'll land the ship, visit my grandfather, then once we're settled, we'll send him a message. You haven't really had time with me in three days, not with how sick I've been. We deserve even a little quality time together."

"I like the sound of that," Kallia said with a wide grin. "And, that'll help you be nice and relaxed when you get in touch with Liam. You don't want him seeing you filled with stress and anxiety. I'll help make you content and blissful."

"Like I know you can." Before Yelara could get too frisky, another wave of nausea hit and she quickly sprawled onto her stomach and placed her whole head into the bucket. Just as the sounds of her retching filled the cabin, Leshie's persistent cries came from across the room. "Oh, Leshie," she murmured, then coughed and heaved aggressively again.

"I'll go," Kallia said quickly, and then slid off the bed to go to the crying infant. A minute later she re-emerged in the room with Leshie cradled in her arms. "I think he wanted to come say hi to momma."

"I can't feed him now." Yelara ran a hand across her mouth and sluggishly shoved herself onto her back. "Besides, my milk's probably gone sour. I can't keep anything down. Just...just take him away."

Kallia nodded slowly, and then exited the room, bouncing Leshie slightly in her arms as she did.

Yelara rested listlessly on the bed until Leshie's whines became fully inaudible, then she pushed herself upright, swaying from the affects of vertigo. Yelara pressed the heel of her palms against her closed eyelids and sighed deeply. Not a very promising start to their new life, but things would be better once they reached Corellia, or so she kept telling herself.

Being in bed all morning was causing Yelara to become restive, so combatting her disequilibrium and queasiness, she managed to plant her feet relatively firmly upon the ground and heft herself upright. She staggered and lurched as she made her way out of the cabin, using the wall to aid her. "Kallia? Where are you?"

Kallia stood up from one of the large couches in the main cabin. "I'm here," she said still holding on to Leshie. "He's being pretty quiet now, but I think I should make him a bottle just in case."

"No," she sighed. "Give him to me." Yelara made her way to the couch and settled down into it. She smiled tightly at Kallia and held out her arms. "I think I may still have a little something left for him."

Kallia smiled and then placed Leshie into Yelara's arms. "He is a beautiful baby," she whispered. "You and Liam did really good with him. That's what babies are supposed to be like."

Yelara raised an eyebrow at Kallia as she slid her shirt up and away from her breast. Leshie latched on immediately and began to suckle. "What do you mean? They're supposed to whine and scream at the most inappropriate of times?"

"No," Kallia said with a smile. "Leshie has two parents who love him very much, and have contributed so much to making him beautiful and wonderful and everything anyone would ever want in a baby. That's what I mean. I think they should be quiet all the time and only throw fits when you forget to change their diapers."

Yelara nodded thoughtfully. "Well...Yara's got a mother who loves her enough for two parents. She'll turn out so much better without Dargus in her life, Kallia. Besides, she's also got Liam and I to help raise her. She'll be the most loved baby in this universe alongside Leshie."

Kallia nodded slowly and then smiled. "I love her so much, Yel," she whispered. "She's so beautiful and so wonderful and I can't believe she could have any part of that monster in her. She won't have his influence, and she'll be beautiful like us. But, sometimes I get so scared..."

"No, Kal." Yelara pressed her free hand to Kallia's cheek and laughed softly. "She'll grow up with only love and happiness around her. Nothing can taint that, no matter who contributed to her conception. We'll teach her to avoid the path Dargus chose. And with us on Corellia, we'll be even farther from any potential influence on his part. It'll all be fine, my love."

Kallia smiled and her features relaxed. "I know," she said. "Everything will be better now. There will be no more conflicts, no more doubt. We'll love each other, and our children will grow up knowing only love."

Yelara nodded her approval. "That sounds perfect to me. And the only thing we'll ever have to worry about is our children running off and getting married to one another."

Kallia laughed. "Or sneaking off and having a wild time together before they're ready," she said. "I hardly doubt we'll be shining examples, and I have a feeling our children will earn their habits from us. So, we're going to have to make sure they aren't able to spend too much time alone together."

"But then when will we have time alone together, my love?" Yelara pouted playfully and added, "It's not fair that our fun should be ruined just because our children will turn out to be crazed sex fiends."

"Well, as long as they're not too wild, and we lay down some rules ahead of time. Not in public. Not in full view of anyone else. Always protected. Things like that, and everything should be fine." Kallia laughed for a moment, then leaned over the feeding baby to kiss Yelara's forehead. "I love you, Yelara Zaneth."

"And I am going to spend the rest of our lives on Corellia making certain you realize how much I love you too," Yelara replied.

"If you keep looking at me like that," Kallia said, "you won't have to do anything to get that point across."

Yelara laughed softly and lightly ran her fingers along the curve of Kallia's cheek. "Go and get Yelara. I want the family to be together."

Kallia slipped off the couch and hurried back toward the room that had become the nursery. She returned a few moments later with Yara in her arms. The little girl made gurgling noises as she looked around with her large brown eyes. As Kal sat down again next to Yel and Leshie, Yara gurgled again, and giggled as she reached out for Leshie's foot.

"Ah, a foot kinda gal," Yelara said. "And look at how his eyes just light up when she's near. Oh, they're definitely going to be trouble together when they're older."

"They are," Kallia said with a grin. "Though, I have a feeling she's going to start teething soon, and we want to make sure she's not grabbing for Leshie's foot when that happens."

Yelara giggled. "I imagine she'll be as kinky as her mother is at times. Though, you tend to enjoy nibbling on other things besides feet," she said with a suggestive smile.

"Oh indeed I do," Kallia said with a laugh. "But, right now I think my daughter is just going for whatever's easiest. And, besides, Leshie doesn't have the parts she'll be interested in yet."

"If he inherits anything else from his father, I think Yara would be pleased if it were that. Liam's quite well endowed, as you know." She winked at Kallia, then laughed.

"Oh he definitely is," she said. "And, he'd better hurry up and get his endowments to Corellia, or we're going to have to teach him a lesson he won't want to learn. Though, you never know...he may."

"He'll be there soon. He promised me." Yelara's expression became sullen, and despite her best efforts not to, she began quietly crying. "Why does he have to go after Dargus and get himself killed? Why couldn't he have just come with us?"

"He'll come back to us," Kallia whispered softly. "He'll come back and we'll be a family again. And, once he's done with his mission, Dargus will never bother anyone ever again." She kissed Yelara's cheeks and smiled. "He will come back to us, my love. He promised."

"I know." She sobbed again and rested her cheek against Kallia's. "I would just feel much safer if you were there, fighting by his side. I trust you, Kal, and I know you're a good Jedi. I'm just afraid he'll go at this alone, one on one with Dargus."

"He has Koran Darr there," Kallia said. "And, Kael. Kael's getting better every day, and he's strong. And, despite everything else, Laedra Vorrel is a good Jedi too. They'll all make sure he stays safe and alive, and comes home to you."

Yelara nodded her head, shaking loose the shorn section of her hair from the ribbon tying her ponytail in place. The curls brushed against her cheek and served to remind her of her last few moments with Liam. How beautiful his eyes looked then, glistening with tears through which his love for her became magnified. Tears spilled from her own eyes again and this time, she pulled Leshie against her chest and wept into his ruddy hair. "Daddy's coming to us soon," she whispered. "Don't worry, don't cry. He'll come back to us."

Kallia slipped one arm around Yelara and held her. "He'll come back to us," she whispered. "And, everything will be good again."

"You hear that, Leshie? Auntie Kallia's a Jedi and Jedi can just tell about that sort of thing. So if she says it'll be okay, it really will be." Yelara kissed the top of Leshie's head then gazed up at Kallia, her eyes quivering with newly forming tears ready to be spilled. "Right now, my love, it doesn't feel so okay."

"It will be soon," Kallia whispered. "When you hear his voice again, see the love in his eyes... It'll be okay. And, I bet you'll even be able to feel his love for you all the way across space."

"I already do. I know this is killing him as much as it's killing me, and if so, it's probably as much of a struggle for him to get out of bed as it is for me."

"Oh, I'm certain it is," Kallia said. "Probably even more so." Of course, Laedra probably has much more to do with that than missing either of us does, she added mentally. "But, hearing your voice again will give him some strength just as hearing his will give you."

Yelara smiled warmly at Kallia and leaned forward to kiss her lips. "You're so wonderful to put up with me when I'm like this. But it'll be different when we get to Corellia, I promise, my love."

"However you are, my love, I'll always love you. And, it's because I love you so much that whatever emotions or moods you may be going through don't bother me in the least. As long as I can be here with you, and hopefully ease some of your sorrow, I'm happy."

"Then lie with me. Let's go put the babies down, and we'll lie down together so I can make sure you really are happy."

Kallia slid forward on the couch and then stood up. "I really like the way you think, my love," she said.

Yelara adjusted her shirt to conceal her chest, but fondly thought how it would be coming off soon anyway, so the effort was no doubt wasted. With Leshie cradled in her arms, she rose from the couch and started with Kallia first for the babies' room, and eventually to the cabin. "Liam's going to regret staying behind, knowing we're up here with a large bed and no distractions."

"Next time I see him," Kallia said as she pulled Yelara closer to the bed, "I'm going to have to thank him for putting such a big, wonderful bed in here. But, for now, you'll be the recipient of that thanks."

"Just... Not too enthusiastic," Yelara pleaded gently as she sat on the edge of the bed. "If it gets too bouncy, I'll vomit."

"I'll be very gentle," Kallia said, and then helped Yelara to lay back on the mattress. "And, I promise to not make it bouncy. I imagine we'll want to be as loud as we can because the next time we do this, it's probably going to be in your grandfather's house."

"Oh, it'll be so daring!" Yelara pulled Kallia down on top of her and laughed. "But if we time it right, we can probably scream just when the children start crying. He won't suspect a thing."

Kallia giggled and kissed at Yelara's throat. "Oh, I think we can also convince him our screams are just some new Tae'Karada stress release, and we're just using it to get over our absence from Liam."

"And if he doesn't go for that, we'll just come clean and end up giving him a heart-attack." She deftly unfastened the buttons of Kallia's vest and pushed it open. As her hands passed over Kallia's breasts, Yelara sighed plaintively. "Make the hurt go away, Kal. I don't wanna feel that right now."

"I'll make all the hurt disappear," Kallia whispered as she slid down Yelara's body. She pulled the pants down and trailed kisses up her love's thighs. "I'll make all the hurt vanish like it was never there."

The moan Yelara emitted as Kallia's face disappeared between her legs was filled with pleasure, but tinged with a persistent sadness not even Kallia could cure. It radiated from that abode in her heart and mind where Liam's startling blue eyes dwelled, and wherefrom the memory of them emerged whenever her mind drifted or whenever she thought she caught a hint of his scent on the bedsheets or in her clothing. Their new life on Corellia wouldn't begin until Liam joined them, for Yelara refused to feel complete until he was once again in her arms.

***

The Kestrel rumbled through the Corellian atmosphere as Kallia piloted the freighter toward the spaceport. From there it was only a five minute ride by speeder to Orinth Neerou's home, and then they could once again start living their lives. She brought the ship around and spun it so that it would be perfectly aligned once they touched down. The landing struts extended, and the ship lowered to the ground. A gentle thud rolled through the ship, and they were down. They were home.

Kallia looked excitedly at Yel. "We're here."

Yelara let out a long breath and for once in three days, she didn't detect a trace of nausea. "It's about time!" She stood up from the passenger seat in the cockpit and rushed out to retrieve Leshie and Yara, who'd already been securely placed in their carriers. "We'll need to hire a cab for all our stuff!" she hollered back to Kallia.

"I'll start making the arrangements," Kal called back. "Go ahead and open the cargo area so we can get to it. I'll just have the driver pull right up and we can load straight in without much shuffling things around."

Yelara hurried to the cargo hold with a hand gripping Leshie's and Yara's carriers by the handle. She stifled excited squeals as she reached the hold and nudged the door release upon the wall with her hip. To put it mildly, Yelara was ecstatic to finally be home again. She met Kallia at the landing ramp moments later and kissed her happily. "Oh, I can't wait to introduce you to Orinth. This is gonna be so wonderful, Kal."

Kallia laughed and quickly took Yara's carrier. "It is. I mean, we're not even out of the ship yet, and I already feel at peace. This is the right place for us. Come on, the cab should be here soon. And, I can't wait to meet Orinth. But, he's not going to get to see my tattoo."

"Then he'll absolutely adore you." Her free hand clasped Kallia's and together they made their way down the ramp. It was so far as she remembered it from her last trip to Corellia with Liam. Eventful as that time was, she hoped this time around the pace was a little slower and their experience far more enjoyable. "Orinth will be speechless when he sees us standing on his doorstep, and even more so when I introduce him to Leshie."

Kallia laughed. "I can't wait to see his reaction when you tell him I'm your girlfriend. Especially when he finds out that Liam is your husband."

They met the hovercab as it pulled up at the rear of the ship. Kallia signed the proper documentation from the foreman of the port, and two docking attendants began promptly loading up the rear hold of the cab with their luggage.

"I'm so nervous, but I'm so excited too." Yelara laughed and shook her head. "This is so surreal. I can't believe I'm back here and staying."

Kallia leaned into the hovercab to secure Yara's carrier into place. "I've never been here before. It's a beautiful world. And, we should have the makings for a very nice life together here. It's perfect being here with you, Yel. Completely perfect."

Yelara didn't have the heart to spoil the mood by correcting Kallia. Things were almost perfect, and would be only when Liam arrived. But, she'd let Kallia have her illusions, if only to keep her love from feeling as sad as she often felt these past three days.

Leshie was secured into the seat, next to Yara. Yelara moved with Kallia to the other side of the cab and sat inside the vehicle. "Where we're going, it's more rural. I rather like it far from the city," Yelara commented.

"It'll be better for stargazing there," Kallia said. "And, it'll be nice to have the slower pace of a rural area, instead of the bustle of the city. I like that idea."

"We can even pretend we're real farmers by planting a garden of our own. A small one at first, until we learn how not to kill the plants, then we can have a whole field." Yelara laughed. "And we can have Liam tend to it while we sit back and sip caffas all day long."

"Oh, that sounds very lovely," Kallia said with a smile. "You've said that your grandfather has gardens. Maybe he can give us some pointers."

"He will, alright," Yelara snorted. "He's never been shy about stating his opinion, especially in matters of the botanical nature. I think it'll be fun gardening with him. It'll give you a chance to get to know him, and he, you. He's a good man, although a little surly at times."

"Well, I worked with Kal'Aran and Quinlan Vos," Kallia said with a grin. "I can handle working around people who are of strong opinions and not afraid to tell everyone what they think."

"And that makes me even more glad that we are through with that place. I'm sorry to say this, Kal, but I couldn't care less if the Jedi Order thrives again, as long as we're all happy and safe."

The rear hatch closed and the two attendants helping to load the luggage waved to the cabbie, who then slipped into the vehicle. Yelara gave him a quick set of directions and then they were off.

"Living in the country, we'll need to go shopping for new clothing. Leather just doesn't seem appropriate or comfortable anymore."

"I don't know," Kal said with a grin. "I still like leather quite a bit. But, yes. I don't think leather is appropriate to working around the garden. And, I think I want to get more dresses. I want to feel more...like I'm a woman. No more playing warrior against the galaxy. I imagine they have some wonderful clothing stores here."

"They do," Yelara said. "And I happen to think you're womanly enough," she added with a smile. "But I've never actually seen you in a dress. I think I'd like that."

"Maybe once we're settled, Grandpa Orinth can baby-sit, and you and I can go out on a date in our brand new dresses."

Yelara purred and smoothed her hand over Kallia's thigh. "Oh, my love... We haven't been on a date for so long, and the last one we had wasn't a very pleasant one. We really have to try again and do it right this time."

"Oh yes," Kallia said with a smile. "And, this time, it will end with us making love, slow and beautiful, all the way until morning, and then we'll sleep for most of the next day."

"Until, of course, Yara and Leshie wake us up for their feedings." Yelara looked over at her child, cooing softly and pulling his foot away from Yara's grasping hand. She chuckled and brushed red hair away from his brow. The touch drew his attention to her and upon recognition of the face that belonged to his mother, he gurgled and kicked his legs excitedly. Yelara laughed and leaned over to kiss her child's forehead.

All at once, she felt more confident about the decision to come to Corellia. He would not be at risk from Dargus and she could feel certain that he would grow up feeling safe and secure in a place free from that man's taint. No darkness would steal his light, and he would know nothing of heartache and struggle if she had anything to do with it. Only happiness for her child, and everything she had lacked in her youth he would receive. If she was hesitant about her decision before, knowing his life would be a better one for leaving Tae'Karada now banished every single doubt.

***

Yelara tipped the cab driver handsomely for the ride and for volunteering to unload their luggage closer to the little cottage belonging to Orinth Neerou. She thanked him when he offered to take it directly to the doorstep, but refused gently, not wanting to alert her grandfather to their arrival. She hoped he would appreciate the surprise.

"Now, be very quiet Leshie, and you too, Yara. I don't want him to hear us until he opens the door." She grinned at Kallia as they made their way along the meandering path towards the cottage and squeezed her hand. "I can't wait to introduce you to him."

Kallia laughed softly. "I can't wait to see the look on his face," she said. "He's going to be so happy to see us. And, I'm really looking forward to getting to know him."

"He may be very intrusive at first, but that's just a sign that he likes you."

They mounted the cobbled steps of the porch and came before the wooden door. Yelara rapped on it with the rusted knocker. She stepped back and suddenly felt nervous tension come over as they waited for a response. She hadn't spoken to her grandfather in months. Was he even still alive? She closed her eyes and shook away the thought. Now was the time for optimism, not for such fatalistic thoughts. But if he was dead--

"Yara? By the gods, child, is that you?"

Yelara looked up suddenly, emitting a gentle gasp as she did. The weathered face was brighter than the last time she'd seen it and despite the deep lines in his brow and under his eyes, he looked younger than she remembered him. "Grandfather.... Oh, Grandpa!" Yelara set Leshie down quickly, yet carefully and threw her arms around the old man. He laughed heartily and wrapped his own arms around her waist.

"You silly girl...." He patted her back affectionately as they exchanged kisses. He pulled back to get a long look at her face, then laughed again and tightened his embrace. "What you doing here? Oh, Yara, my girl."

Yelara kissed her grandfather's cheek again and wiped at tears stinging her eyes. She eased her arms from around his neck and stepped back to study her grandfather's face. "I've missed you so much, Grandpa. But, I think you'll agree it was worth the wait. I've got a few surprises for you."

Orinth had already noticed Kallia, as well as the two babies, and smiled to himself at Liam's absence. "So, you dumped the blue-eyed fellow after all, I see."

Yelara laughed and shook her head. "Afraid not, Grandpa. I made him my husband instead."

He pursed his lips and arched a brow in distaste, but made no comment, though his thoughts on the matter were clearly apparent in his expression. "And who is this beauty?" His mouth drew into a smile as he took Kallia's hand. He brought it to his lips and kissed it softly. "Orinth Neerou. A pleasure to meet you."

Kallia grinned and leaned close to Yelara. "You never mentioned that he was so charming," she said. "My name is Kallia Brael. And, I've heard so much about you. It's a pleasure to meet you, Orinth Neerou."

The old man chuckled lowly and patted Kallia's hand. "And who is this lovely girl staring up at me with big brown eyes?" He leaned over and grinned at Yara. "Hello, sweet girl. Is this beautiful woman your mommy?" he ventured with a glance up at Kallia.

Kallia laughed and gazed down at her daughter. "This is Yelara Brael. She's my beautiful little girl. Say hi to grandpa Orinth, Yara."

Yara looked up at the older man and gurgled while kicking her feet and giggling.

Orinth clapped his hands together and laughed. "Oh, what a lively child! And is that your brother over there, Yara? Is that red-haired boy your brother?"

"No," Yelara said softly. "He's mine."

Orinth gazed up at Yelara, then straightened his back and faced her fully. "My...my grandson?"

Yelara smiled broadly and nodded her head. "Va'Lesh Zaneth. My son by Liam - Kace, as you knew him - and your grandson."

She picked up the carrier and brought it around towards her grandfather. He looked almost reverently at the red-haired, blue-eyed boy and nodded his head proudly. "My grandson... Yara, you have made me a very happy man. He's a fine looking boy. The eyes are his father's, but the rest is all you...thankfully." He placed a shaky, gnarled-fingered hand upon Leshie's head and smiled wistfully. "I didn't know if I'd live long enough to see this day, and now that I have, I know I am fulfilled."

Yelara looked to Kallia and reached out a hand to take hers. It was like a dream, this moment was, and gave more strength to her belief that finally, they had come closer to finding unadulterated, pure happiness.

"Come now, you two," Orinth said. "Go inside and make yourselves comfortable while I go and grab your things. It certainly looks from here like you packed quite a bit. Making it a long stay?"

Yelara took a deep breath and laughed nervously. "Actually...that's what we need to talk about, Grandpa. I was thinking.... We want to make this permanent. We want to stay on Corellia and were hoping that until we got a place of our own, we could stay here...with you."

Orinth laughed joyously and agreed without hesitation. "Yara, my dear girl, I would have you stay here for always if I could make you. You can have your old room and Kallia here can take the spare."

Yelara didn't mention that Kallia would be content sleeping in the same bed with her. An old-fashioned man like Orinth would not readily accept such a thing under his roof. "That sounds fine, Grandpa. Just fine."

Kallia and Yelara set the babies inside, then the three of them set off to retrieve the luggage from the roadside. Yelara closed her eyes for a moment and deeply inhaled the scent of flowers on the breeze. They had come just in time to catch the Yrulia's in bloom and made a note to herself to take Kallia on a long walk through the fields to pick some for a flower arrangement. Simplistic and uncomplicated, that's how life should always be and have been for them. Now, after all the struggle and conflict they had encountered, they deserved a slow-paced life with time enough to bask in the love they shared for each other, but hadn't had the luxury of exploring fully yet.

They weren't quite there yet, but soon - very soon - everything they had ever wanted for themselves would be achieved, and Dargus and Tae'Karada and all the strife they had been subjected to would be but a distant memory scattered by the breeze and buried deeply beneath the rich soils of their new home.

---

"By Day...By Night"
By: Duncan Dakster - Freighter Captain/Smuggler

Location: Thanatos
Date: Niothe 19, 4ABY

***

Duncan eased the Star-Runner into the parking dock that the Thanatos control tower had assigned his ship to. The flight had been dreary and uneventful. Needless to say he and his crew were bored.

The delegates of the Furrell Transhipping Industries gathered their things to leave the ship. Duncan checked his blasters before he went back to the passenger hold for his normal duties.

Dall and his cronies were waiting at the airlock for Duncan to make his presence known.

"Captain, I see that you are ready for duty," Dall said rather amused.

"I am always ready, Sir. Just not for duty. If I was in the service I would be. But I am not, so I am ready for my job, Sir," Duncan said plainly.

"Yes...well.... This will be our only stop today. Have you found out whether or not you will be able to transport us tomorrow?"

"As I have said before, Sir. I know about two hours before I have to make the shipment. So that will come into play as it does. I am sorry if it debunks your work schedule," Duncan said, starting to feel aggravated.

"Don't worry, Captain, our work schedule is very flexible. We can work around such things or simply find alternate transportation," Dall said.

Duncan merely shrugged his shoulders, and opened the airlock. He fallowed the businessmen out onto the dock yard, then to a pair of speeders that were waiting nearby. He watched the scenery as best as possible, but missed the four mangy-looking men approaching.

He caught them just as one of them pulled out a blaster pistol and blasted one of the businessmen. Duncan, reacting to the sound of the weapon, shoved Dall into the speeder, cleared leather with his heavy blaster pistol and blasted the closest man to him, striking both bolts in the head, completely obliterating his skull.

The next blaster bolt came at him, narrowly missing his shoulder before Duncan got a bead on the vermin. Dakster took a close look at the surroundings and noticed that the killer was behind a crate that was suspended by a grav-sled.

Duncan aimed carefully and squeezed the triggers of his blasters. The bolts struck the assassin in the ankles, shattering both and completely amputating them, causing the man to fall to the ground screaming in pain.

Duncan then jumped into the speeder and ordered the driver to take off.

---

"Discussing Betrayal"
by Grand Admiral Tarkin
Shrezade Anoran
Hajne Toray [NPC]

Location: Drogen Shipyards
Date: Niothe 19, 4 ABY

***

Grand Admiral Tarkin's transport, an Imperial Lambda Class Shuttle, docked at the Shipyards after clearance given to do so. From the ship's ramp walked down the Grand Admiral himself, escorted by four Red Guards. He was greeted by a platform worker, and demanded to see the Shipyard Administrator at once.

Of course, the small platform worker hadn't even the courage to say anything at all, let alone deny Tarkin his order. He knew that would probably mean death at that same instant. Tarkin was, therefore, escorted to the lounge, just outside Shrezade's office, waiting for the mere formality to enter the office, rather than just storm in.

Hajne was startled into choking on and swallowing her chewing gumma at the sight of the red-armoured officers looming over her, and the frail yet intimidating Admiral peering down with eyes that chilled her more than one of Reza's glares. She blindly fumbled for the button of the intercom and in a breathless whisper informed Shrezade of her visitor. Of course, the voice on the other end sounded not in the least bit pleased. "Sh-She will see you now...sir...my lord...his highness."

Tarkin mumbled something that was not comprehensible on his way in, followed by his Red Guards, two of them staying outside the door and two standing inside, next to it. "Mrs. Anoran... Thank you for seeing me on such short notice. I trust that I have not arrived at a bad time for you?" he asked, not letting her answer. "Well there are important things that I believe need to be sought out. Important things. Namely our deal."

"The deal you have seen to acquiring reimbursement for on your own." Shrezade gestured languorously to the chair opposite her desk. "Frankly, imposing yourself upon my station wasn't something mentioned in our deal."

Tarkin took the seat and raised an eyebrow at Anoran's comment. "Oh?! Perhaps you feel I am being unfair at our deal?" he asked then frowning seriously. "You ought to pray that I do not change it any further! I do not tolerate misconducts, and most certainly not betrayals either!"

Shrezade laughed derisively at Tarkin, oddly enough amused at the man's imbecility. "I have betrayed you not, Admiral. I have allowed your men onto my station freely, given them everything they require, including privacy with regards to what they are constructing in that secured section of the station they are using. I have indulged your every whim, Admiral, and now you accuse me of betraying the Empire?" She gave him a dismissive shrug. "If you do not trust me, why am I still the administrator of this station? Why have you not had me deposed?"

"Think of it as an act of goodwill... You are indeed the Administrator and I am a just man," Tarkin replied simply. "Now, it has come to my attention by quite trustworthy sources that you have tried to take some actions to gain knowledge about my conduct on those restricted areas. That I do not allow! Furthermore, it has also come to my attention that you now wish to cancel our deal... Tell me, is this true?"

"Your sources are misinformed, Admiral. You should have them fired or killed." Reza smiled blandly and leaned forward, closer to Tarkin and giving him a better look at her hardened gaze. "I would have preferred it if you'd informed me personally of your wishes to appropriate my station instead of sending a liaison. Secondly, of course I wish to know what goes on behind those closed doors. This is my station and if your operations put it at risk, I believe I deserve to know. Don't you agree?"

"Frankly, no, I do not!" Tarkin replied simply. He was not one bit intimidated by this woman. "What happens there is on a need to know basis only, and you do not need to know! And my sources are correct, I assure you. But I will consider your advice for killing those who fail to comply my orders..." Tarkin sat back. "Now, as for my Liaison and the message, let me clear up that I do not wish to appropriate the shipyards but to have it as part of the New Empire. Of course it would still remain under your Administration, although under our causes only. And there is no risk for your operations I assure you... Think of it as expanding."

Reza snorted dryly. "Admiral, we are working towards the same cause: ridding this galaxy of the scum that has infested it. Now, we can either work together to achieve that goal or you can keep your actions concealed from me and possibly create an enemy. Is that what you want, Admiral? I can tell you now, that you certainly do not."

"Beware of your own choice of words, Miss Anoran. I can promise you that it is you who do not want to become my enemy... Now, although we are working for the one and same cause that does not make us allied or friends to one another. Thus, I need not show you anything and neither do you need to know what it is! At this point I do need your shipyards for my cause and you may not know for what purpose. I would advise you to drop this issue for your sake..." Tarkin told her raining a finger. "Now, I am sure you can comply to this. Do not try to set the rules by opposition. It is a bad choice of actions," he advised with a frown and a calmness in his voice that showed this was no bluff.

Reza's smile held strong as she listened and dismissed everything the Admiral said. In fact, she was convinced he talked merely to bask in the sound of his own voice. "Admiral, we can make our relationship an amicable one if you merely give me your reassurance that Major Weyland will not undermine my authority in any way, nor will he get in my way. If he does, I believe I will be forced to take certain...measures."

Tarkin pointed out to her seriously: "Major Weyland will surpass your authority in the locations where the Empire has installed itself. Now, as for the other locations in which we do not occupy any space, yes, the authority is yours... And once more choose your words carefully, I advise you. I care not for threats or bad promises, Mrs Anoran. Do so once more and it is I who will be forced to certain...measures."

"Admiral, Admiral," Reza drawled. "We are not enemies here. We work towards the same goal. I would merely appreciate it if you would work with me rather than behind my back. If you had divulged certain knowledge about your operations beforehand, I would have more readily welcomed your Imperial officers onto my station. Of course, you are always welcome here," she added with a tight smile.

"I do not work behind your back my dear, but fact does remain that I have no need to inform you of all the decisions I make. If you have questions or doubts of any sort I would ask you to forward them to Major Dane Weyland, and I am sure we would reply," Tarkin relied with a small nod and a smirk. "Now, I trust you will cooperate and that I will hear no more about acts of betrayal against the New Empire by your hands. Do you wish to pose any questions?"

"Even if I did, I am certain I would be met with evasion and accusations of infidelity to the Empire. So, no, Grand Admiral, I have no questions for you." Shrezade produced a most shrewd smile for the Admiral and said rather smugly, "That will be all. I await our next meeting anxiously, Admiral."

"No need to be cordial just for the sake of it," the Grand Admiral smirked. "Well, if nothing more you wish to ask then I will be going. One more question if you will... I trust Major Weyland has aided you concerning the lower deck problems when asked to do so, correct?"

"I have not asked him to do so," Reza replied flatly. "I have my own security force, Admiral, and for the safety of his men, it would be wise if they refrained from going to the lower levels. The Empire is not very popular with the inhabitants there, and anyone wearing white armour is likely only to get hurt...or killed."

"I will transmit those orders at your request. But perhaps you should seek his help to deal with this problem. If we are unpopular then we must deal with our opponents in a swift and fast way... A mere suggestion only," he said as he got up.

Reza smiled at Tarkin wryly, a smile that veiled who, in her mind, the true opponent was. "Yes... I agree with you completely, Admiral. Swiftly and painfully."

Tarkin knew then he could never trust this woman and that he ought to take actions to prevent her from whatever she had in mind, as he could tell that it was not good for himself. He exited the room and ordered the Red Guards to follow him. Once in his Lambda Class Shuttle he sent a message to Weyland. It read:

To Major Dane Weyland, eyes only.

I have reason to believe that Mrs. Shrezade Anoran is not accountable for trust and cooperation. Therefore she is to be placed under extreme surveillance as to her actions and businesses to determine whether she is or not to be taken to trial for treason.

Grand Admiral Tarkin.

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