"Moving About and Learning More"
By: Kylas - Jedi
Elisia - Padawan

Location: Landro IV
Date: Saris 19, 3 ABY

***

Elisia woke up still snuggled closely to Kylas. It was weird. She had loved Kace in a consuming passion. She didn't feel that with Kylas and yet, she felt closer to him. She didn't understand. She shifted in his arms to look at him. They had decided they were friends, but he had said they could be more. What did that mean to him? She wanted to ask, and yet was afraid to. She watched him sleep, content to do so.

"And why are you afraid?" he asked her quietly with eyes still shut. He smiled. "You have so many questions to answers you already have even if you do not see them." He opened his eyes and reached up to carress her face.

"What did you mean by we could be more than friends?" she asked. She didn't want to read his answer. She wanted to hear it.

"Because of what happened last night, I am closer to you than anyone I have met in the past." He looked at her and tossled her hair. "You are more than just special, you are more to me than I realized. Even if we've only known each other for a few days."

"I feel close to you too. But it is not...it is not the same as before. This is more calm, more..." She didn't know how to explain.

"Natural, something other than the passion of lust." He looked at her

Elisia didn't understand the difference. She kissed him softly and then rolled off the bed. "We should get going. I would like to get supplies for something other than stew." She pulled on a pair of demure pants.

He smiled. "You are right." He got up and was quickly dressed in full Jedi robes. "The journey will be quick. I normally have supplies very easily gathered for the plasma gas." He nodded and looked at her. "The difference is that you felt natural with it rather than you had to." He smiled and kissed her again before pulling his cowl up and going to his gas well to load a few containers.

Elisia followed him, confused. "I didn't have to with Kace." She didn't understand how he could say she had to. She held the empty container out for him to take.

"Hmm...how to explain this... You felt a fiery passion towards Kace, correct?" He looked at her and filled it.

"Yes. I couldn't think when he was in the room. It was like a fire." She felt strange discussing this with him and yet she truly wanted to know what he meant.

"And with me, were you more relaxed, were you allowing yourself to feel something other than the passion?" he asked, a little look on his face.

"I don't know. I guess I was more aware of us rather than just the sensations." She wasn't sure that was what he was asking.

"Yes." He sat down. "And it grew from that awareness into something you could look onto and focus, control rather than be lead by sensations alone?" He looked at her.

"I guess. It felt safe and unthreatening. Isn't it better to be consumed by your partner?" And yet, now that she thought about it, they had opened up to one another just as strongly. She was confused. She had thought she loved Kace. But she had enjoyed and even yearned for Kylas to finish what had been started the night before.

He smiled. "You are still a young woman, though you are a woman indeed. You will learn that love is different from person to person. You will never experience love in the exact same way with another man. You can move through your life and choose a love that is right for you, one you feel that is best for you." He stood up and gathered the containers. "Do you understand that?"

"How do you know it is best for you?" she asked, picking up two containers as well. At least with her along, he could take extra containers.

"You live your life Elisia." He smiled. "Life is full of experiences out there for you. You take hold of them, or you can take hold of what you have and learn more about it as you live." He nodded.

"So do you think you will know when you find the love that is right for you? And what about the other loves, do you just walk away when you realize it isn't the right one?" Is that what Kace had done?

"No, you don't walk away." He smiled. "Things have a way of working out. It's part of destiny or the Force, somethings even I don't have answers to. But if it is meant to be, enjoy it. If it is not, you must try to move one. But don't actively try and ruin a love just because you want to experiment. That is when people get hurt."

Elisia was quiet. He had given her much to think about. She watched as he finished getting items together for their trip. She helped where she could, otherwise, she stayed of his way. She was silent, going over his words. Right before they were to leave his home, she stopped and looked up at him. "So is our relationship one of love?"

"Now that is where things become interesting," he said. He loaded everything into the speeder, and leaned against the edge. "Looking at how you feel and what you want, you're the only one who can answer that." He smiled. "Though I hope, but I cannot push."

"I don't know what I want. Well, except...not to fear anymore." She looked up at him and smiled. "You hope?"

"It is rare to find a kindred spirit, even more to find one willing to accept the possiblilty." He smiled and turned to her. "What do you feel?"

"Relaxed and yet a little confused," she said. "I feel, safe. " She liked him and had shared much with him on a mental level. "I feel like we have things in common."

"That's good. Anything else?" He looked at her as he reached in and started it up.

"I liked last night," she answered with a blush.

"And did it feel like it did with Kace?" He looked at her.

"No. In some ways it was better. I know I feel better about us this morning than I did with him." She blushed, she didn't like comparing. The situations were vastly different. "He had...he had another woman he slept with at the time," she admitted. She knew that he probably knew that on a deeper level, since she had opened up to him.

"I know, but in ways you may not see yet, you have answered your question yourself." He smiled and walked over and picked her up and gently lowered her into the speeder. He handed her a tunic. "You might want this just in case. Though walking around topless might not work too well."

She blushed. She had a thin tank top she had slipped on before leaving the house, but it was white and when damp, didn't hide much. She pulled on the tunic. He made her forget her surroundings and that was a new sensation for her. "What should I do when we get there?" she asked as he rounded the speeder and got in. She had grabbed the single saber on her way out, more comfortable with it still than the double bladed one.

"Well one, if you want you can head for Grannma's, a human tailor, and pick out what you want in the way of swimwear and other such clothing. I have an extended credit with her. And I will gather the food stuffs and light coils." He smiled. "The fishing settlement I trade at isn't too bad; it's the spaceport you need to worry about."

"Okay." She settled back, again, content to watch him and mull over what he had said. He had given her so much to think about in such a short time. She wondered how Evie was doing. Was she safe?

He sped along and within twenty minutes they reached a lakeside settlement. He pulled the speeder off beside the trader. "Hello, Tarkas. I have a larger supply for you this time."

"Welcome, my friend. Ah...good to see your order is all ready." The elderly man smiled.

"I will need a few more things. I have someone else to look after." Kylas smiled.

"Well, welcome." He smiled to Elisia. "Take your time lass and shop around. We don't have much but are willing to share what we have because of this man. Have a good time." Kylas nodded to Elisia.

Elisia smiled. Her needs were simple. She, however, wandered through the unique shop. There were things here she had no idea what were for. She watched out of the corner of her eye as Kylas did business with the trader.

Kylas had traded for more food. He got a few more blankets and soap for them. "Thank you, Tarkas." He nodded and walked back over to Elisia. "Find anything you want?" He smiled and wrapped his arms around her.

Elisia had some small items. The clothing wasn't really to her tastes. "A couple of things. I also need to get some things for baking that may not have been on your list."

He smiled. He looked back at Tarkas. "You mind if we take few extra things? I will pay you the next time I'm in."

Tarkas smiled and waved. "Go right ahead."

She gathered some things for baking and cooking that he did not use normally. "If my credits work, I can pay for them," she said with a frown.

He looked at her. "Alright, but Tarkas normally doesn't trade in credits. They don't use them this far off the trade lines." He smiled and walked her to the counter to pay for them.

Elisia smiled at the trader and sat the items on the counter. So should I offer my credit chip? She was uncertain. It does have a large amount on it.

Tarkas smiled. "Lass, I'm afraid we don't use credits, but if you wish to give me a donation to the orphanage for say...new blankets. Farely cheap price. I'll let you have these things, for only...30 credits."

"I can do that I think. How much of a donation?" she asked warming slightly to the trader.

He smiled. "All I'll need is 30 credits to pay for the material. My wife can make them, and I can deliver them on my next run to the spaceport." He nodded, and charged her chip. "There you are lass. Have a good week."

Elisia smiled. "I am glad I can help and thank you." She smiled at Kylas. Orphans had a definite soft spot for her anyway. "Where else do you need to go?" she asked, picking up her purchases to take to the speeder. He had said it wasn't safe here, but this store had seemed okay

"I normally only trade here, Grannma's is a good place. The fishermen are a burly boisterous bunch that enjoy their drink and brawls, more over their women." He frowned. "That is why I only trade here."

"Do we need anything else?" she asked, looking around only a little nervous.

Kylas shook his head. "I don't think so."

Suddenly three large Landrosians barged through the door. "Hey Grandma, what you got for me today?" the largest bellowed.

"I have nothing here.... AGH." Tarkas was grabbed by the throat.

"You talking back to me old man?" the largest spoke. "Oh lookie here. Looks like old man been holdin' out. He got a girlie here." He reached to grab Elisia. Kylas spun around grabbing the man's hand. He spun again flipping the larger man down to the ground. Kylas jammed his knee into the brawlers elbow and a sickening crack was heard. The others went for their blasters. Kylas was much faster. He flipped over them and a flash of bright blue light appeared as his saber ignited and he held both ends at their throats. "I suggest you gentlemen leave," he said calmly from under his hood.

"This ain't over Jedi." They backed off and grabbed their comrade and fled.

"Thank you Tarkas for the supplies." He turned to Elisia. "Are you ready?"

Elisia's eyes were large. She nodded yes. She couldn't believe how fast he had moved. She moved to him, a little stunned. She had seen Kace move that way once also, and even though she knew Jedi's could do that, it surprised her still. She gathered her purchases and hurried to Kylas.

He loaded her things into the speeder. "Don't worry, Tarkas will be fine." He smiled and lifted her back into the speeder. "Are you alright?"

"Just a little surprised," she said, watching him. How did she always end up with dangerous people? Would she be dangerous someday too?

"Actions like that should be taken when there is no other choice," he said. He started up the speeder and headed out. "But yes, someday you will be strong enough to do that kind of thing." He lightly rubbed her back. "Patience though."

"How long does it normally take for a Jedi to be self sufficient?" she asked, not moving away from his touch.

"Sometimes it takes years of training to learn the basics and be able to have a certain level of control. Normally only a year or two," he replied. "Elisia, you shouldn't be so concerned about power as you should be about learning wisdom."

"Why? I just want to be able to protect myself." She didn't understand why one should want wisdom over power.

"Because without wisdom, power simply corrupts and destroys." He looked forward. "You must learn wisdom and control before you learn power."

"Is that what happened to you? You learned power before wisdom?" she asked softly.

"Yes and that was used against me. I don't want that to happen to you." He took her hand as they sped along. "You must learn other things before you can master the ways of the force."

"Like what?" she said with a frown. "Something beyond the force? I don't understand." She held his hand tightly.

"Control. The force is in and around all things. It can guide you and lead you, but at times you might be able to guide it." He looked down at her hand and back up as they pulled into home. He parked the speeder. "Go get lunch ready." He smiled at her. "I'll unload the supplies." He smiled.

Elisa grabbed some things from the speeder to fix lunch with and then headed in. She spent the time cooking to think about what he had said. She cooked some fish and set a loaf of bread out. She had everything ready by the time he finished.

He walked in. "Smells good. What's for lunch?" He smiled and pulled off his cloak and hung it up. "You all right?" He raised an eyebrow. "You seem to be thinking alot today." He smirked slightly.

"You have given me a lot to think on in a short time," she pointed out with a soft grin. "Lunch is lemon fish and baked bread." She sat down with him to eat.

He smiled. "That's good." He ate his meal quickly. He liked her cooking; it tasted so much better than what he cooked. "What would you like to do this afternoon?"

"Work on the saber? You said we could." She wasn't sure he would still want to after expressing concerns about power and wisdom.

"Very well." He nodded and pulled his saber from his belt. "You can learn, but we will use the two handed. They're really not that hard to learn." He smiled and collected the dishes when they finished eating and washed them. "We will learn hadling and other techniques today."

"I will fetch the saber you gave me then." She left him to go to her room and fetch it. She put the single bladed saber in its place and returned to Kylas.

He lead her back outside. "Now basic movement with the double saber is very simple, much like the single blade. It can be used with one side." He activated one side and arced the blade smoothly. "Hand movements are also very similar. Rotating your hand allows you freedom of movement. With the double blade, it allows for a guiding control." He ignited the other side and his arcs became more ellaborate but smooth.

"It seems you could be quicker with a single blade. Then you wouldn't have to worry about cutting yourself." She eyed the large weapon warily. Elisia had a short arm span.

He smiled. "Neither is really quicker, but the double blade offers the advantage of extra defense." With one hand he spun the blade until almost all color started to swirl together. "And your arm span has the advantage for more movement."

She lit the saber and moved it experimentily. It felt awkward to her after using the saber with one blade. She set her feet and tried going through her exercises, but faltered whenever the second blade got too close to her.

Kylas frowned. He walked around behind her. "Here, let's try this." He rested his hands over hers and opened his mind to hers. He visualized the movements and moved slowly at first to let her get a feel for the weight.

Elisia, more comfortable with the contact, was able to soon mimic his movements. She had to adjust some, for she was smaller. She soon was able to move the weapon more smoothly.

"Excellent." He smiled and moved away from her. "You're catching on quite well." He smiled and resecured his blade to his belt.

Elisia closed her eyes, using his mental pattern and worked on the movements. She soon was able to move faster. "I see what you mean," she conceded finally.

"You can fashion whichever type of blade suits you, but after learning to use a double bladed. The single will seem like child's play." He nodded. "So what do wish to learn now?" He smiled.

"Do you have a practice sphere?" she asked with a soft smile. She wanted to see if she could get as far with a double blade.

"Yes." He nodded and pulled one out and tossed it into the air where it hovered, waiting.

Elisia dropped into a readied stance, her concentration fully on the sphere. She smiled as it began through the levels. She managed to do fairly well. Much to her surprise, she passed the level with the double blast for the first time. The double blade gave her the mobility and reach that the single blade hadn't given her. She shut off the saber in amazement.

"Excellent." He nodded. "But next time, you focus on the sphere, focus on the moment. The force is all around us like vibrations. Sense the vibrations of the sphere and move before it does, act and react at the same time." He smiled.

"How can I move before it does? It isn't sentient so how does it broadcast its intent?" She looked up with a frown.

"Perhaps not, but all objects carry a vibration an energy signature if you would. The sphere, like a blaster, gets a sudden increase in energy before it fires. You can sense this at the point of the buildup of energy." He looked at her.

"Let me try again." She wanted to see this energy build up. She had never been aware of it before.

He activated the sphere again. "Begin."

She dropped down. It took a few moments, but she was finally able to sense the energy build up. It took a lot of concentration. She kept at it until she could begin to anticipate the movement of the sphere. A dull throb began to build in her head but she pushed it aside as she moved with the sphere. Her clothes clung to her from the exertion.

He smiled. "Excellent. You have learned much today." He walked behind her. "But don't burn yourself out. Take it slowly a day at a time. You'll improve with practice. I want you to start practicing and experimenting on your own now." He smiled and massaged her shoulders to relax her.

"I can do that," she said, looking up at him. She turned off the saber. "If you don't mind, I think I will go draw for awhile."

"Alright, we can continue later." He smiled and pulled his saber out and began to practice.

Elisis smiled and went and got her art supplies. She had found a rock down by the pond that would be perfect for drawing. She had a need to know how Evie was, and drawing was the only way she knew how to find out.

Kylas worked on his excercise and left Elisia to her drawing. He went out and picked berries when he was finished and some larger fruit. He went back inside the house and grabbed a wash cloth and towel.

Elisia lost track of time. She didn't watch her hands really when she drew. It was more a mental act. She was able to think about the things she had learned.

Kylas came back out of the house and took a seat near Elisia, letting her continue into her world as he watched her silently.

The three figures on the paper were quite distinctive. One was a Sith Lord who had Evie in a pair of manacles. They were standing before a wizened man. Elisia didn't know who it was, but Kylas did. Elisia had drawn a very good likeness of the Emperor.

Kylas walked closer and watched her drawing. Now he was interested. She had the ability of farseeing, a little under developed, but it wa there. He kneeled beside her.

Elisia was still filling in the details when she finally looked down at him. "Yes?" She smiled at him absently.

"Nothing. I just came out to give you a reward for your training today after you were finished drawing. What do you see in this?" he asked, looking at her.

Elisia finally looked down at the picture. "Evie is going to be in trouble soon." She pointed to the man beside Evie. "This is her master, he will betray her to this man." She pointed to the older man in her drawing.

Kylas knew the emporer. The man beside Evie looked familiar as well. He looked closer at Evie. She seemed hollow empty somehow. He felt nothing when looking at her image and trying to read into it. "Hmm..." he mused to himself.

"It doesn't mean it will happen. Sometimes...sometimes I draw things that can happen and then they do though. I used to think that if I drew them, I made them happen, but now I know it isn't so." She looked at the picture. "I knew I was worried about her for a good reason."

"As am I," he replied. It was strange. Normally he felt things even from the most heartless people, but from Evie nothing. "This may happen. I will keep an ear to the ground to protect your sister." He smiled and tickled her. "For now, brighten and concentrate on your studies."

"Why would this man, want my sister and..." She looked up at him. "Why is he looking for me?" She knew he was. She had sensed him before. She had drawn him before.

"He is the emporer. He will try to use you and your sister. What I don't understand is why they have forced Evie. She is willingly a servant of the Darkside." He looked closer at the picture.

"Dargus is not in the picture," she pointed out. "She loves him deeply. They would not get her to leave him willingly."

"Perhaps. Something about this doesn't feel right though," he pointed out. "Are you alright?" He looked at Elisia.

She looked up at him and smiled. "Yes, it is just a possible future. I have learned not to worry about them. Either they will happen...or they will not." She put her art supplies slowly in the bag.

"Hmm...well I came over to give you a treat for advancing so far on your lightsaber skills." He smiled and offered her the bowl of fruit. "That and the over exertion must have been hard." He took the wash cloth and placed it in the lake and rung it out and started to gently wipe any sweat from her face and neck.

Elisia was starving. She started in on the berries. When he returned with the cloth, she pushed it away. "I was going to practice swimming some more."

"Ah...need a hand with that?" He sat down and leaned against the rock.

She grinned at him. "I might need a hand or two." She blushed at her poor attempt to flirt.

He laughed. "That was a good first try." He winked at her. "Well at any rate, you're certainly still a little shy, aren't you?" He raised an eyebrow.

"I guess in a way. I probably always will be. It isn't because of Kace though, it goes farther back. On the streets...it just isn't safe to be a girl," she said, not willing to explain further.

"I can only imagine." He smiled. "Well shall we get started?" He smiled and stripped down again and hopped into the pond.

Elisia was a little slower but she joined him in the water. She paddled over to him on her own. It was sloppy, but it was still swimming.

He laughed. "Good, good. You're learning." He smiled. "Shall we try the front stroke again today?" He smiled

"No, I am tired. I just want to cool off and get clean," she admitted. It was hard to admit she was tired.

"Oh well." He shook his head. "You should have just said that." He laughed and swam back over to the side and grabbed the wash cloth again and swam back over to her. Using the wet cloth, he carressed the back of her neck, massaging her through the cloth.

"Have you always liked to touch this much? On the streets, even during sex people...people don't touch much," she said, blushing again.

He smiled. "You have made me feel different. You have had a hard life and for the most part are clean. It just seemed to me, you liked to be pampered, and certainly don't mind pampering you as long it doen't affect your studies," he replied and drew the cloth up and poured cold water over her head.

"I am not afraid to work hard," she said simply as the cold water dripped over her. "I am a quick learner." Her hand explored under the water. "And a willing student," she whispered in his ear as she pulled herself up against him.

He smiled. "I agree with all of those." He smiled and pulled his arms around her and pulled her against him. "But you like to be treated like a queen once and awhile. You have earned it through your life." He kissed her neck gently.

"Did you know I was really a princess?" she said with a soft grin. She wrapped her legs around his waist since she couldn't get purchase in the water.

"Yes, I did from the past few nights." He lightly tapped her head. "Did you know I'm a poor minor's son who could barley scrape together two cents?" He smiled and carressed her leg. "You certainly are beautiful, your highness." He looked into her eyes.

"I did," she said with a smile. "Do you really think I am beautiful? I don't think you should call me your highness. My planet blew up," she said with a soft look of disapproval.

"Alright Elisia, but you are still beautiful." He smiled and kissed her gently. "You should not look so sadly upon yourself condemning for the hardships you have been through. Others are to blame, not yourself."

"Sometimes, I feel I let my mother down. She sent me to get help. I never found any," Elisia answered quietly. "I guess that is why I do that."

"Do not. Evil men destroyed your world. There is nothing that can be done about that but try to live your life." He rested his forehead on hers. "Wherever your heart is, is your home." He smiled at her softly.

"My mom wasn't on Alderaan." She nestled against him, drawing comfort from his touch.

"Where was she?" He looked into her eyes. He smiled and walked back into a shallow part of the water. He sat back and lightly moved his fingers in circles on her back. "Have you ever tried to find her after you left her?" He cuddled her closer to him.

"I did try to find her when I was older. But she was sold and I couldn't trace where to. Dargus Kandran is looking for her for me. He has a syndicate. That is how he found Evie," she explained.

"Hmm...I can help if I can. I have a few contacts in the Empire, a few rebel sympathizers who want to see the emperor replaced. Perhaps I can get some information." He smiled and kissed her neck. "I'll help if I can." He smiled at her and licked gently along her neck line.

She shivered in his arms. "I guess I have kind of given up. I can think of better things to do than discuss my missing mother." She kissed him tentatively.

"Anything you want, Love." He looked at her. "But I promise if she is alive, we'll find her." He looked into her eyes.

"Thank you," she whispered. "Warm me up?" she hinted and kissed him again.

"Oh I'm sorry." He smiled. "Sort of new to the signals myself." He kissed her deeply, letting his mouth explore hers. He pulled her tightly to him, his one arm carressing her back It moved down her back and lightly carressed her behind. His other arm strayed across her front down to her sex where he lightly petted her.

"You don't act like you're new," she said with a grin. "Let's go to bed. It has been a long day and I am getting cold." She let go of his waist with her legs.

He smiled and took her hand and led her back into the house. He led her into the bedroom and grabbed a bigger, heavy blanket and wrapped it around them both, kissing her deeply and pulling her back onto the bed.

Elisia took the initative. She explored with hands and kisses. Truly the willing student, she followed his earlier request to expand and explore on her own. Elisia was discovering that just as touch could cause pain, it could be used solely for pleasure.

---

"Illicit Deals"
By: Liam Zaneth
Yelara Zaneth
and High Princess Kalaira Ardelyr-Valreth

Location: Royal Palace of Arcadia
Date: Saris 19, 3 ABY

***

"We're here to see High Princess Kalaira," Liam said to the attendant who greeted them in the foyer of the royal palace.

"I am quite sorry, sir," the man began, "but I'm afraid that High Princess Kalaira is quite busy today. I believe I can schedule an appointment for tomorrow afternoon for you."

Liam glanced at Yelara and back to the servant. "I'm afraid it must be today, right now."

"That is just not possible," the servant said again, holding up his hands in protest as Liam started forward down the hallway. "I will call the Tae'Morad Guard if you take another step, sir."

Liam stopped in place and turned back to him. He was done playing. They needed to get gone and fast, needed to get away and have time for themselves. He waved a hand before the servant, his voice dropping into a steady monotone. "You will take us to High Princess Kalaira now."

The man bobbed his head once. "I will take you to Kalaira now," he said.

With that, he turned down the vast hallway and gestured for Liam and Yelara to follow.

When they were finally led before Kalaira, she was seated behind a desk and working diligently at something. Liam didn't know or care what it was.

"My High Princess, Liam and Yelara Zaneth." He bowed low as Kalaira looked up.

Kalaira looked up in surprise. "You married, then? I will not ask how you got in without an appointment," she said with a grin. "What can I do for you?"

"You know Dargus Kandran has taken much without paying the price for his actions. We think it's time for payback. So, with that in mind, we have something for you."

"Really? For me?" Kalaira looked at both of them with growing surprise. She had not really expected to see these two.

Liam looked to Yelara with a smile. "I'll let Yelara explain the particulars since she has a greater understanding of the technical details. However, we now have a way for you to know the location of Dargus Kandran's floating ship at any moment. Though, before we turn any relevant information over to you, we need a solemn promise from you that you will tell no other living soul about this, not without speaking with us first."

"Any such information would be worth such a promise." Kalaira was watching them closely. They were turning out, perhaps, to be an asset.

Liam nodded, then turned to Yelara. "Time for the magician to reveal how she performed the magic trick."

Yelara took a deep breath and smiled at Liam before turning her gaze to the High Princess. She had been content to remain silent throughout the entire conversation, letting Liam handle the proceedings. Her mind was still mulling over everything Dargus had said to her, words that resounded in her head no matter how hard she tried to shut them out. Frankly, he frightened her. She slipped her hand into Liam's, his touch bringing her mind back into focus, and shutting Dargus' voice out for now at least.

"The device," Yelara began, trying to determine how much detail to go into, and how much the High Princess would actually understand. She decided a simplistic explanation would be sufficient. "Basically, I isolated the frequency Dargus' tracking device was broadcasting on, one he implanted in me, and traced it back to the source, which led us to the location of the ship. I devised our own tracking device, one that transmits on a rotating frequency so that even if someone manages to discover the device they won't be able to track it back to its source, which keeps all parties involved safe."

Yelara paused to gently rub her temples. She hadn't slept in over three days, instead working on the device and worrying about her meeting with Dargus. Her head was feeling heavy and her body was beginning to feel lethargic, but after the meeting with the High Princess was over, she and Liam could finally leave Tae'Karada behind. After that, she might just be able to get some sleep.

"The, uh...the tracking device is cloaked, a cloaking device I invented--an ingenious piece of technology if you would forgive my arrogance. No one will be able to detect the device, not without those codes. Once you have them, all you have to do is punch them into a computer connected to the planetary navigational and sensor cluster and you'll be able to follow the ship wherever it goes. Without those codes, your computer won't be able to match the ever-changing frequency the device is transmitting on, so it is imperative that these codes don't get into the wrong hands," Yelara iterated firmly, her nails biting into Liam's hand. Her head began suddenly spinning, but she shrugged it off, assuming it would dissipate quickly. Still, she kept a firm grip on Liam's arm, just to keep herself centred until the meeting had ended.

"There is a price for these codes," Liam said after a brief moment of silence. "One million credits. To be deposited into Dargus Kandran's primary bank account under the name of Yelara Neerou." Liam held up the datapad with the tracking device information, his hand starting to drift toward Kalaira... "Do we have a deal?"

"That is quite the hefty price. Since usually, Dargus will give me the location of the ship when I ask. What makes you think this way of tracking it will be worth a million credits?" Her words were coached carefully so as not to give insult.

"When you ask Dargus where his floating ship is, don't you think that makes him a little suspicious? Wouldn't it be easier to just look at your computer screen and let it tell you exactly where he is? If you ever need to find him, it's instant. And, if you ever need to retaliate against him, there is no need to alert him that there's a problem. You came to us to help you spy against Dargus, help you take back what he's taken. We're giving you an eye in the sky to watch him whenever you want. One million for what we're giving you is a bargain. The signals can't be tracked or traced, it's invisible and undetectable. What do you say, Your Highness?"

Kalaira sat back and thought for a long moment. "Done! One million to be transferred in Yelara's name. But one more condition. I want to know where you are at in case there is a problem with it...or at least... you check in once in awhile." She smiled at Yelara.

"We'll keep in touch, your highness and if we are welcome, we may drop in from time to time," Yelara replied, smiling at the High Princess and rising from her seat. "But one more thing before we go," Yelara said, staring intently at the High Princess. "Your husband cannot know about this. No one can. There are no sensors in this known galaxy that would be able to detect that tracking device; of that I've made quite certain. The only way for Dargus to detect that device is if someone were to tell him it was there. Please, your highness, this must remain a secret. Only the three of us must ever know about this. Also, if you wouldn't mind," Yelara added with a gentle smile, "please have the recording devices in this room wiped of the entire conversation once we leave, just in case."

Kalaira smiled. "I will do so." The woman was smarter than she gave her credit for. "I will keep this between the three of us. Another reason to keep in touch. I do not want to have to call some tech to fix it if it goes awry. Anything else?"

"Nothing that I can think of," Yelara replied looking at Liam and smiling. "Except for one thing," she added, turning her gaze to the High Princess and walking over to her, gently taking her hands. "Thank you for everything. If it hadn't been for your urgings, Liam and I would not have reached this day together." Yelara brought each of the High Princess' hands to her lips and kissed them softly. "Thank you."

"You are welcome. When will you deliver the device?" Kalaira asked, a little embarrassed by the show of gratitude.

"It's already been done," Yelara replied with a mischievous grin. "We anticipated your cooperation and attached the device before we met with you. We were rather confident that you would agree with our proposal. After all, mine and Liam's lives aren't the only ones that have been harmed by Dargus' grip. You, more than anyone would have a reason to see Dargus destroyed. We just thought we'd help you with that a little."

Kalaira smiled. "Then you two must go and have a honeymoon. I will get the transfer to Dargus done immediately. I will send a confirmation to you as soon as I have it."

Liam tapped in the unlocking sequence into the datapad and handed it to Kalaira. "All the information you'll need is on that datapad. I would recommend encrypting it as soon as possible to keep anyone else from accessing it. Thank you for your time and assistance. We'll be in touch."

"Thank you," Kalaira said kindly. "I wish you both the best of luck." Her words were a gentle dismissal.

Liam gave the High Princess a nod and a slight bow, and then took Yelara's hand as they exited the High Princess' office. He kept his face neutral until they'd moved a few corridors away from the office before allowing his smile to slide back into place. "That went better than I'd hoped," he said. "Our business here is through, my love. Shall we leave Tae'Karada behind now? Take some private time for just us?"

Yelara gave Liam a wan smile and nodded her head. "We've no reason to stay here. Let's just go," she replied weakly, her voice barely above a whisper. "Dargus is the High Princess' responsibility now..." Yelara added before letting out a quiet gasp and falling against Liam. The corridor began to spin, seeming as if it were being swallowed up by a looming darkness. Yelara clenched her eyes shut and gripped Liam as the floor seemed to be swept from under her feet.

Jedi reflexes kicked in and Liam quickly scooped Yelara into his arms before she could fall to the palace floor. "Yelara," he whispered softly, "what's wrong? What are you feeling?" He sped his pace toward the palace gates. There was some equipment on the Kestrel he could use to diagnose Yelara's condition. Though, the way she'd been going lately, he figured he'd find exhaustion as the reason. "We'll be back aboard the Kestrel in a few minutes. Just hold on to me."

"I am," Yelara mumbled as her eyes fluttered open, focusing on Liam's face. His normally calm, implacable expression displayed only concern now. "Don't worry, Liam. I'm fine," she chided gently, bringing her hand up and brushing his cheek.

Liam smiled as he looked into her eyes, using the Force to guide him where he was going. "Fine typically doesn't include almost collapsing," he said. "You're probably very exhausted after everything. So, when we get back, I'm taking you straight into bed. And, then I'll blast us out of here, and we're going to have ourselves a nice week to ourselves. No worrying about anything other than starting our life together. Deal?"

"Whatever you say, Liam," Yelara said quietly as she nestled her head into Liam's chest. "I'll even let you pamper me and I won't put up a fuss."

He held her close to him as they passed through the gates of the palace. Once outside, Liam felt a little of the tension he'd been feeling slip away. It was nice to be away from the Tae'Morad; they still made him nervous. It was a short trip to the ship, and then they were inside, safe and secure.

Liam moved back into the cabin and set Yelara down onto the bed. He brushed the hair out of her eyes and smiled. He kissed her once then pulled back with a smile. "I love you Mrs. Zaneth." He watched her for another moment before adding, "I've never felt this complete in my life."

"And I love you, Mr. Neerou," Yelara said playfully as she took Liam's hand and brought it to her lips. "Don't forget to get some rest," she added, still holding Liam's hand and closing her eyes, finally succumbing to the sleep that had been trying to possess her body.

Liam smiled as Yelara seemed to fall asleep instantly. He leaned close and kissed her forehead. Once he extricated his hand from hers, he headed toward the cockpit. He'd get them on their way to Turren, and then he'd set the autopilot and crawl into bed with Yelara. As he sat down in the pilot's chair, he realized that he definitely needed some sleep.

---

"Now Hiring"
By: Maeren "Shiv" Shivral - Smuggler/Pilot
and Kaysa Zenarr - Owner of Zenarr Inc.

Location: New Plouton - Zenarr Inc. Headquarters
Date: Saris 19, 3ABY

***

"Zenarr, Inc."

The characters seemed to dominate everything else on the datapad as Shiv read it again. According to what she'd been hearing, Zennar Inc. would be her ticket to a much more comfortable way of living. And, all she'd have to do was haul the cargo. The company would arrange the shipments, and she'd move them. She wouldn't get as much money this way, but it was that easy money she'd been looking for. And, easy money would mean regular meals.

Shiv looked up at the large sign above the office. Zenarr Inc., just like the text on her datapad. Obviously the right place. She approached the door and entered. After she'd left the luxury of the main spaceport office, she half expected Zenarr Inc. to be just as opulent. It was a relief that it wasn't though.

She approached the front reception desk and smiled at the woman on the other side. She tugged at the braid falling over her shoulder, a nervous habit she'd picked up, and one of the reasons she kept telling herself to stop braiding her hair. She let go of her braid and smoothed the shirt she'd chosen to wear. It was a tighter fit and she was wondering if that was a mistake or not. At least she could still breathe. She didn't want to give the wrong impression.

"Hi there," she said. "My name is Shiv, and I'm here to see Ms. Zenarr."

The woman at the desk let her eyes travel up and down Shiv's body, scrutinizing her from head to toe. Her eyes stopped at the woman's chest and noticed her shirt was pulled taut over her small breasts. She gave a short laugh and shook her head as she stared back down at her datapad. She, herself, was guilty the odd time of wearing clothing that left little to the imagination, but she believed a woman was more appealing and attractive when her clothing didn't reveal all. The girl was young, however, and had much to learn about how to use her female assets to her advantage. It was a shame, though; she was quite beautiful and men would no doubt give her anything she wanted if she knew how to use her feminine prowess wisely.

Flaunting one's body too soon destroyed any chance of getting into a man's head, possessing his mind and trapping him. Wearing clothing that simply hinted at what was beneath the fabric would lure a man in, bringing him close enough to sink your claws in. Men had quite an imagination, and when that imagination got going, one could only guess at what perverted, fantastical thoughts they came up with as they pictured what a woman looked like under all her clothing. That's what always drew them in; they always figured their fantasies were an accurate representation of reality, but men, after all, weren't very smart. That's why they were so easy to manipulate. She enjoyed pulling a man in by playing to his delusions, getting what she wanted from him, then tossing him aside. That's all they were good for anyway.

She looked again at the young woman in front of her and sighed disparagingly. In a tired voice she asked, "What is your business with Ms. Zenarr...Shiv?"

Shiv had felt herself go red under the woman's appraising gaze. She felt it lingering on her breasts, and the fabric pulled too tightly across them. Once the woman's gaze had returned to her datapad, Shiv quickly shoved her datapad into one of the large side pockets of her pants and crossed her arms over her chest. She knew the shirt was too tight, too small. She shouldn't have worn it. She should have worn one of the others.

After a breath to steady her pounding nerves, Shiv smiled. "I was out at the processing kiosk where work notices are posted, and I noticed that Ms. Zenarr was looking for pilots willing to act as couriers or run cargo. I've got a ship and freight hauling experience. I think I can fill the position she's looking to fill."

"Oh you do, do you? Little girl, I don't think you know what you're getting yourself into. This isn't a job for cowards or the weak in spirit. Why don't you try the bar down the road, huh?" The woman smiled, obviously satisfied with herself for demeaning the girl. She was too young and looked far too timid to make it in a profession normally dominated by men. It was a dangerous business, and only the smart and cunning ever excelled at it, not to mention got away with their lives. Not many women had what it took to be a smuggler, and by the looks of it, Shiv did not have it.

Shiv's eyes narrowed at the woman and she leaned forward onto the desk. She'd been hoping to avoid a confrontation, but the Zenarr receptionist was gonna get one anyway. Her dark eyes flashed with anger as she spoke. "I'm not a coward, and I'm definitely not weak in spirit. I've probably run more Imperial blockades in the last four years than most smugglers see in their lifetimes. I'm good, I'm professional, and I'm not walking out of here until I speak with Ms. Zenarr. If she has a load she needs delivered, I can get it there."

The woman looked up at Shiv's fiery eyes and gave an amused laugh. The girl had confidence and certainly knew how to intimidate, but it still remained to be seen if she was as good as she said she was. "Get your hands off my desk and take a seat, Shiv. You're far too excitable, you know that?" the woman said with sardonic grin. "When you've calmed down and your face has returned to its normal shade of white, we can discuss exactly what it is you can do for me." The woman sat back in her chair with her hands clasped behind her head and her feet propped up on the desk next to Shiv's flattened hands. "Oh, by the way, the name's Kaysa, but you can call me Ms. Zenarr if you like."

It was hard to hide the look of surprise that crossed her face, but Shiv tried. She straightened herself up and deliberately forced herself to move slowly to avoid looking like she was embarrassed. She slid into the offered chair and tried to not look sheepish. "I'm sorry about that," she said, indicating where she'd just thrown her tantrum. "It's just...you have to know how hard it is to find work out there, right? Young and female don't mix well with the smuggling world. But, I know the game, and I've been in it for four years. I'm good too."

"I do know what a struggle it is, but I can see that you're stubborn and passionate, which is just what makes a good courier." Kaysa narrowed her eyes at Shiv. She sounded mature and imposing, but her face looked youthful and her body certainly was, as could be seen by the firmness of her many curves and the absence of even the smallest laugh lines on her face. "How old are you, Shiv?"

The question surprised Shiv. It wasn't one she'd expected. "I'm twenty," she said. She took a moment to look at the woman across the desk from her. Kaysa Zenarr was attractive to be sure, the kind of attractive woman that made her uneasy. Her dark eyes and dark hair, fair skin and smooth complexion. She was definitely in control, and carried herself with a confidence Shiv had only ever dreamed of possessing. When Kaysa looked at her, she felt as if she was being scoured bare and scrutinized to the finest detail. She found herself caught in the other woman's gaze, the feeling of unease nearly overwhelming. Her stomach did a flip and she wanted to rush from the room. She wanted to be out from that gaze, away from those eyes. She wanted to stop feeling like she was falling into a bottomless pit. She swallowed hard, and forced her eyes to her hands. Staring at her hands was good, but if she stared at her hands, it might give the wrong impression. She didn't want to look intimidated. She covered looking away by rubbing at her eye. That's better, she thought.

"Twenty?" Kaysa repeated, cocking an eyebrow at Shiv. She was young, far too young for Kaysa to send her on smuggling runs, ones she would risk her life on. Kaysa herself had been about Shiv's age when she got thrown into the smuggling business, and she had almost lost her life on too many occasions. She had to be certain this is what Shiv wanted. She seemed eager enough and sounded qualified, but Kaysa didn't want to throw a girl her age into this kind of existence, one Kaysa was trapped in but was trying desperately to escape. "Are you sure this is what you want? I mean, I'm willing to hire you, but it's a dangerous job. Are you willing to risk your life for a few creds?"

Shiv laughed. "Yes, it's what I want," she said. "I wouldn't be here if I didn't want it. If I didn't want it, I would have left when you told me to. And, I have been doing this for four years. When the credits are coming in, they're good. And, in this business with far too much testosterone already, I want to do my piece. And, I'd much rather work for you than for some hormonally unbalanced man who's thinking more about getting into my flightsuit than about the job." She made a face that said exactly what she thought of the men in the smuggling profession. "This is what I know how to do, and what I wake up for every morning. This is what I want."

Kaysa could identify with Shiv's hatred of men; she too carried a resentment towards them, one that caused her to just about swear them off completely, except for the odd tryst just about every night, which she always enjoyed immensely. She had her needs, she couldn't deny that, but they were merely sexual needs and she had no desire for any emotional fulfillment involving a man.

Shiv looked willing enough and determined not to leave without a job; Kaysa would enjoy having another woman around, herself being the only one at that moment, but she only hesitated because she was worried Shiv was making a hasty decision. Kaysa was guilty of being headstrong in her youth as well, and her life would have been much easier if someone, once in her life, would have given her the break she needed. Kaysa would be that person for Shiv.

She smiled and leaned forward, sliding her feet off the desk and planting them on the ground. "Of course by now you realize this isn't a regular courier business. It's a front for the smuggling ring I run, but I can tell you've already surmised that. You're bright and sharp, that's why I'm hiring you, but working for me comes with a certain responsibility and discretion. Do you know what I'm getting at, Shiv?"

Shiv grinned. It was the kind of grin that spoke of a tremendous victory, of being able to finally move forward after being blocked for so long, of great admiration and thanks. "I think I do," she said, though her voice carried a hint of uncertainty. She thought she knew what Kaysa was asking, and she knew she would be very discreet and responsible in the illicit dealings of Zenarr Inc. "I won't let you down. I have more experience doing this than it looks like, and I'll be the best pilot you've got. And, any job you want me to do, I can do it!"

Kaysa smiled at the sight of Shiv's eagerness. She looked desperate enough for a job and Kaysa didn't feel she would betray her at the risk of losing her only source of income, as well as her life. She didn't mention it to Shiv at this time, but the consequences of betraying Kaysa Zenarr were very grave. She had never had to kill any of her employees before, but it wasn't beneath her. Zenarr Inc. was everything to her, and just as a mother would kill to save her own child, Kaysa would do anything in her power to protect her business. "You're signing a blood oath here, Shiv. You will never betray me, and while you are in my employ, you will work for no other. Is that understood?"

Shiv nodded vigourously. "I understand," she said. "And, I won't ever betray you. And, I'll only work for you. You tell me what to carry, and where to carry it, and I'll do it. I'm your girl."

Kaysa couldn't help but laugh at Shiv's enthusiasm and decided not to waste the moment. She took her datapad in hand and quickly tossed it to Shiv. "Since you seem so eager to work for me, why not start right away? I need you to do a pickup, nothing too dangerous for your first run, but still a big job nonetheless. You think you can handle it?"

Shiv looked at the datapad. It didn't look like it'd be too difficult of a job. "I can handle it," she said. "I can be out of here within the hour."

"Good. Welcome aboard, Shiv. Don't let me down," Kaysa said. She held out her hand to Shiv, urging the girl to take it and seal the pact they had now made. She would work for Kaysa, do her bidding, and do it willingly. Kaysa would pay her, of course, but loyalty wasn't earned through money or fear. Shiv would respect Kaysa, trust her like a friend, but even friends betrayed each other. Of course, she would watch the girl closely, but it was when people were behind your back that they decided to drive the knife in. That's what always unnerved Kaysa.

Shiv took the offered hand and grinned. "Thanks," she said. "And, I won't let you down. I'll go get the Stiletto set to fly, and I'll be back before you even know I'm gone."

"The Stiletto?" Kaysa repeated, furrowing her brow and smiling. "That's an odd name for a ship."

Shiv laughed. "Even odder when you look at the ship," she said. With deft hands, she produced a long, thin blade from seemingly nowhere. "The Stiletto. It's from a knife game my former partner and I used to play. When we decided to go into freight hauling and then smuggling, we thought Stiletto was appropriate to us, though not so much to the ship. But, we named the ship the Stiletto anyway."

"Well, it works for me," Kaysa replied, rising from her seat. "And it looks like you can handle yourself out there, but for what it's worth, good luck."

Shiv smiled and winked at Kaysa. "Thanks," she said. "I think I can handle more than you realize." With that she turned and headed toward the door. "I'll be back soon."

---