"The Death of Girra: Part 3"
By Girra Zillar (PC)
Jarrord Zhen (NPC+)

Location: The Graveyard, the Helix
Date: Selene 19th, 5ABY

***

"Not a day went by that I was not reminded of you, though I never knew you to be reminded of," Orthan said slowly and thoughtfully. Girra could sense the disgust in his words. "Mother and Father always talked about their precious Girra, their poor Girra. 'Girra this, and Girra that!'" he spat. "Always was I compared, always did I have so much to live up to. That was my childhood dear sister. As far as I cared you were dead, I was alive. I was there, you were not. Not like a shadow that never shifted I always had to compete for the acceptance and love that parents are suppose to give unconditionally. But then again," he said a little crazily to Girra's ears. "The conditions of my existence wasn't exactly unconditional now were they?"

***

"The genetic results are confusing Miss Zillar," the doctor informed over the holo.

"How so?" Girra asked. "Is the finger not a familial match?"

"It is a match, in a manner of speaking," the man said, clearly choosing his words carefully, increasingly pissing her off to no end.

"Doctor," she sighed with aggravation as she struggled not to chew his ass to the next system and back. If only she could reach through the holo and shake the hell out of the little man. "What are the results, is this the finger of my brother or not?"

"Miss Zillar, the sample was tested and re-tested against control samples and the genetic sample you provided of your own DNA. It is a match to your DNA, clearly. But I wouldn't go so far as to say it is a sibling match."

Girra pondered the mans words for a moment. Not a sibling match, but a match to her familial genetics. Definitely a match to her family, but apparently not her brother? Who then? she wondered. "Well, what then?!"

"The tests conclude that the sample is a near perfect match to your own genetic sample Miss Zillar," the doctor explained.

"A near perfect match to my own," she repeated, still not getting the gist of what he was telling her. "I don't understand, a close relative? What?"

"It wouldn't appear to be a relative per say," he said. "There are distinct protein markers that identify the questionable sample as being a near perfect match to your own; yours being female and Omwati, the finger sample being male and Omwati. Do you not understand? Both samples are your own unique genetic imprint. The difference is that the you are without a doubt female and the finger belonging to a male."

"Then it is my brothers? But you said it wasn't a sibling or a relative?" she said with confusion. She hated doctors. "Doctor, cut with the shit and tell me what the hell you are talking about."

"What I'm saying is that the genetic sample is cloned Miss Zillar. The DNA matches yours in every aspect other than the fact that it is male and you are not. The protein markers are unquestionable, it is definitely derived from a cloning of your DNA."

"A...clone," Girra repeated as she absorbed the information. "I thought clones were created of the same sex as the donor?"

"Generally, yes. It can be done as such, obviously. You only carry the double X chromosomes, any cloning of your genetic material must be female, unless the material was engineered with the original genetic make up of your creation. That is your mother and father. Males carry the X and the Y, dictating offspring of either sexes. However this came to be," he said, "The engineers made a clone based on your specific genetic make-up with samples from your father and mother to produce a clone of yourself, only that it was male and not female."

"You said it was not a sibling per say."

"It isn't Miss Zillar. The clone is you, just a male version. There is a clear and distinct difference in the genetic marking. It is a clone of you, you if you had been born a male, not in the sense of a brother or a twin...do you understand?"

Girra was silent, though she understood. She didn't understand how it was so, or why, but she understood what the doctor was telling her. "Thank you."

"I know this was not what you were looking for, but it is what it is. I would contact the authorities Miss Zillar, this is an odd and so far as I know, a unique case- grosse and unethical use of science. Were it not for the sizeable contribution you have offered in exchange, I would contact them myself. Good luck," he said as the transmission was cut.

***

Girra could hear his voice. Her eyes darted about as her mind tried to recall where she was. She couldn't move, she felt that she was awake and that her eyes were moving, but she saw nothing, everything was black.

A bright light flashed and washed over her. She squinted her eyes shut from the sudden opticular attack. After a few moments of trying and adjusting. She could see again, and the blue illumination faded, revealing a starry night sky mottled with asteroids.

She still could not move, but she knew she was awake, she could see, she was not dreaming. After a few moments the patterns in the sky became recognizable among the rubble of asteroids. It was the sky of Alderaan, she knew it well. It had once been home. Clearly though she knew she wasn't on Alderaan- rather among what was left of it.

The Graveyard.

"Fitting wouldn't you say?" she heard Orthan's words over some audio system within whatever contraption she seemed to be immobilized within. "The Graveyard, your final resting place. I'd liked to have just killed you myself, outright, but that would be just too easy and too quick. I have a lifetime of misery that I must share with you. Funny, how the same contraption our parents designed to save your life is what will kill you in the end, sister."

"I...I'm...not...your...sister..." she struggled to get the words out, not feeling very right as her situation flooded back to her, all of it. "You...sick...crazy...fuck!"

"Now, now. Such vulgar language from one who was held upon such a pillar. What would mother and father think of such, hmm? Their precious Girra romping around the galaxy, whoring about the stars...you were given so much, had such great opportunities, and look where you are today? But I was always the failure, I was never good enough, could never compare to their precious Girra!" he screamed. "Oh, but I was good enough for the Empire! I was wrangled up with so many others to do their work, use my gifted intelligence. They saved you, but they didn't save me! They just let them take me, and I never saw home again! Even after years and years of constant berating and comparative, I still loved them! Unconditionally! But I always hated you! Hated that little, sick and dying BITCH!"

"Fuck you!" Girra yelled, straining her voice, straining her insanity.

"We have been there and done that, remember? I do, how you moaned and wriggled, begged for more!" Orthan said with an eerily calm tone after his furious outbreak. "Little whore that you are."

"Ughh, gods..." Girra moaned with frustration and disgust for his words and the recollection of the truth in them. The taste of bile crept up her throat as she vomited over herself, choking more back, fighting to not choke to death on her own vomit as she laid immobilized in the middle of virtually nowhere.

She forced it back, back down, and spat, and spat to clear her mouth. The burning sensation continued to force her to keep swallowing, helping to clear her throat, but the vomit and the stench also fought to reproduce it all over again.

"Well that was fairly gross," Orthan commented.

Girra realized she had some movement, she was moving her head left and right, and she could lift her head slightly, her chin mashing down into vomit that had poured out of her mouth onto her chest and still dribbled to either side of her neck.

"What are you gonna do?" she said as she flopped her head back down. She had seen her body, the inside of the stasis chamber. She could feel the slight motion of the rock she was on, barely having the sensation of movement from the rotation of the rock and the shifting stars. She then looked out into space with the slight sensation of looking down, as her position on the rock had placed her at the relative bottom.

There was no answer. Claustrophobia began to creep into mind. She tried to move something, anything, even just a finger. She couldn't. She couldn't help but to allow the memories of the past weeks to flood her mind. It disgusted her, it was all so shocking and unreal.

"How long have you been at this Orthan?" she asked. "Did you kill Jorrard? Or just make him up?"

A holo flickered across the transparisteel. The face of Jorrard, the voice of Jorrard spoke, but underneath it all, it was Orthan. It had always been Orthan, she knew.

"I killed him shortly after the two of you got to know each other," he said as his creamy complexion lost color, and started to turn blue. It reminded her of a corpse, until the skin color continued to darken, more so than that of the appearance from lack of oxygen. His nose, his forehead, they remained creamy-flesh colored, looking so odd and fake. "You know. The same way we got to know each other," he said as he removed the facial prosthesis from his face that had helped to simulate the face of the real Jorrard. The dead Jorrard, Girra thought.

She wanted to close her eyes, but something made her stare with disgusting wonder as the man she thought was Jorrard was revealed to be that of an Omwati man, that of Orthan, the brother she thought she had and had long searched for.

"You want to kill me, don't you?" he asked with a grin.

Girra didn't answer. She just looked into his eyes, looking for something as she put multiple pieces of the puzzle together in the back of her mind.

"Nothing more to say now?" he asked with some anger and disappointment.

"Your on my ship, aren't you?" she asked.

"Yes, and before you get any hopeful ideas about rescue...their all dead, even that mangy Wookiee of yours. There is no one to save you. No one knows where you are, no one is going to wonder or ask. You brought this on yourself. You were such the loner, never letting anyone in, except for me, and well...we know how that has turned out. No family, no friends...your all alone Girra. All alone. I had family, I had friends. But I was always alone. Mother and Father looked at me, but not with the eyes of love for a son, but with the regret of the daughter they could not have. You were never there, but you were always there. In their hearts and in my disgust and hate. So now here we are."

"I'm sorry Orthan."

Orthan frowned and cut the holo transmission, the transparisteel grew dark, the view of the Graveyard faded away and she was left in total darkness again.

---

"Stimulus/Response"
By: Cirran Tyris
Sgt. Mathias 'Walker' Coin

Location: Drogen Station, Docking Bay 62
Date: Selene 19, 5ABY

***

Walker looked up from his datapad. The scheduled arrivals list he'd obtained this morning provided no clues, and he'd already chased down six unscheduled light freighters on landing with no luck. As Walker watched, though, a gleaming ship, the latest one docking control had alerted him to swept into the open bay and pirouetted gently to land in its appointed place. A YT-2000, I think, the sergeant thought, and gave the ship a confused look, but... He tapped his earpiece. "Docking control, this is Coin. What ship is that just came into 62?"

There was a brief silence as the person on the other end of the commlink confirmed the answer, and then there was a crackle and a voice in his ear. "Uh...its register codes have it listed as the 'Fool's Hope' sarge, approved on an unscheduled docking request as we notified you. Problem?"

"Yeah, there's a problem," Walker murmured in reply, deciding. "I've seen the 'Fool's Hope', and that ain't it."

"Shall I notify the ready response squad, sarge?" queried the dock control worker.

"Nah, they'd just get in the way," Walker drawled nonchalantly. "Standby for now." He unholstered his repeater and approached the shining ship cautiously.

As he did so, the entry ramp to the mysterious freighter plunged to the deck with a deafening clang of metal on metal, which made everyone on deck jump nervously. Curiously though, this event had an opposite on the security man who had been closing on the ship with weapon raised. He chuckled and lowered the gun as a familiar looking tall figure made its way down the ramp.

"Hello, spacer," he greeted Cirran Tyris. "Who did you rob?"

The pilot looked defensive. "No-one...er,lately, anyway. Why do you ask?"

Walker laughed. "That crate of yours is looking prettier than a 50-credit whore. I thought you were broke?"

Cirran raised an eyebrow. "You'd be surprised at the employment opportunities in the Core. And you are more or less looking directly at what I sank 4 months wages into. All legitimately acquired, I promise."

Walker ran his layman's eye over the ship again. "Well, if I had been a bounty hunter on the lookout for the ship you cleared out of this place on, I would have been fooled - until that amusing ramp of yours had opened up, anyway."

Cirran looked grim. "Which it tends to do for bounty hunters, as it turns out," he said.

"Ran into some trouble, eh?" Walker asked, more serious now. "Well, that was probably gonna happen sooner or later - course, now that you're back here again, it's almost certainly gonna be 'sooner'. Which begs the question - what are you doing back here? That was a pretty last message you sent."

"I was in a hurry...it's a long story," Cirran explained. "Tell you when we get to a bar. But there's something I have to go and check first," he said, already on the move

"Well aren't we Mr. Enigmatic," Walker said, bemused. "But by all means lead on, just so long as you understand that it's your shout when we get there. If you can afford to plate your ship, you can afford to help rot my stomach lining."

"It'd be my pleasure," Cirran said, without slowing down. He seemed somewhat preoccupied to the big soldier, who shrugged and followed him out of the bay.

"Where are we headed?" he asked curiously a few moments later as the two stood in an elevator.

"Main concourse," the pilot replied.

"Oh, planning on doing some shopping, are we?" the soldier asked incredulously. "Do you think we can rely on the bounty hunters after you to actually notice you wandering around in the most public area of the station, or would you like me to ask the lady in charge to make a station-wide announcement just to be sure?"

"Not now, Walker," Cirran said tersely. A second thought occurred to him, however. "Have Lerrah and Tasia been OK?" he asked.

Walker shrugged. "I assume so. They took off as well, 'on holiday' I think they called it. No-one's been asking for them though, I think they've managed to avoid any association with your little ride to Coruscant," the soldier muttered to himself.

Seconds later, the elevator doors opened onto the main concourse near the top of the station, probably the installation's most busy public area for trade and commerce of all kinds. Cirran strode out of the elevator into the busy crowd, heading for the centre of the level as the security man hurried to keep up. As Walker was about to have another go at asking what was going on, the pilot came to a sudden stop, staring at something ahead.

"What? What is it?" Walker asked, trying to find what Cirran was looking at, his hand going to his blaster.

"It is here," Cirran replied.

"What's here?" Walker asked, sounding slightly spooked, and still trying to follow Cirran's gaze. "Something by the statue?" he asked, seeing that Cirran seemed to be staring at the large statue and small fountain feature that was at the hub of the concourse. He unholstered his weapon, trying to spot the danger, and several passers-by hurried off with cries of alarm.

"No, don't you get it?" Cirran asked in a pained voice. "He was here...is here. And I was gone 4 months...Kemma..." He spun around, seemingly trying to spot his tormentor, who or whatever it was.

"Who, your sister? What? TYRIS!" Walker finally tried, grabbing the pilot's shoulder.

This had the effect of bringing Cirran back to reality somewhat. His shoulders sagged, and he staggered slightly. closing his eyes and taking a deep breath, he said: "Sorry, you've got no idea what I'm babbling on about. No-one's here now...I think I could definitely use that drink."

Walker nodded. "That's the most sensible idea so far...you've clearly got some storytelling to do." He reholstered his weapon. "Come on, over here - drink prices on this level are normally way too expensive, but not to a member of the security force."

Cirran managed a smile. "Employee discount, eh?"

"Something like that. First round's still on you, though." The two tall men headed towards a nearby bar.

***

Across the concourse, a hooded figure watched them go.

"He's back," it told a commlink in his hand.

"This part is almost too easy," came the response.

***

"...and so they dragged her off to a detention centre somewhere," Cirran finished, draining the last of his mug, and looking disappointed at the empty vessel.

"CorSec never had much love for bounty hunters, even when I was there, back in the day," Walker observed across the table from him. "But an anonymous source? That's a lot more unusual. So what happened next? You sure has hells didn't come back here because of that - you're in more danger here."

"I made the delivery," Cirran said, "and as I was re-entering Corellian atmo, someone uploaded a holo-message to the 'Hope'."

"A message? What kind of message?" the soldier queried.

"Allow me you show you," Cirran said, producing a holo communicator from his pocket with a somewhat theatrical gesture. "Had to buy this specially. You wouldn't believe how expensive these things are..." he started.

Walker was no lover of suspense. "Get on with it, you drunken bastard!" he interjected. Without further ado Cirran placed the small projector unit onto the table before them on only the second attempt and activated the recorded message with some difficulty. The head and shoulders of a stern-looking middle-man appeared in mid-air above the table.

"Who's this bloke?" Walker said.

In reply, Cirran raised a finger to his lips. The holographic figure began to speak.

"Greetings, Mr. Tyris! It has been a while, hasn't it - even though, as I have recently learned you've been looking for me for some time now. A shame - I could have easily arranged a meeting with you earlier, and saved you a lot of apparently incompetent effort. But then, I am not a particularly naive man Cirran, as you must know, and I do not flatter myself - I am aware that I am just a mean to an end for you, and one you would no doubt like to deal to fatally when I have served my purpose - much as I did with your parents. A tragic waste of talent, of course, but I had my orders. Nevertheless, I was determined to preserve at least some of their genetic legacy, even if you were determined to go and get yourself killed in the Rebellion - and well done on surviving, by the way - and at least I was in a position to achieve that."

At this point the speaker held a piece of jewellery aloft, turning it over in his hands. "Kemma sends her regards, Cirran. She would have come along to say hello personally, but she's...well, she's tied up at present. But she's asked me to extend an invitation for you to come and see us here." The perspective of the hologram zoomed out to reveal a wide angle of the man and where he was standing. It only took Walker a second or two to recognise the main concourse of the station, and the central statue and fountain in front of which the man stood. "A shame you had to leave for the Core just before we could make arrangements! We've been keeping an eye on you of course, just waiting for the right time for a family reunion, so that we might clear up this unpleasantness and misunderstanding. So by all means, you should return to the Tae'Karada system! I look forward to seeing you soon." The hologram flickered and died.

There was a moment of silence as Walker took the message in.

"And that was?" he asked Cirran.

"Gorta Jax," Cirran said quietly. Having watched the recording, he seemed to have sobered up considerably. "Former Imperial major. He had my parents killed on Lianna...and he took Kemma. Took her and put her down that hole in Gallor... he turned traitor on the Empire, and after the Alliance considered him too valuable a military asset to let me get to him, even though they had him, even though I told them what he had done, the Furies take them...and then he pretty much disappeared off the grid." Walker watched him slowly clenching his fists. "I've been chasing his ghost around since I jumped ship."

"What was that thing all about with the necklace?" the security man asked.

"Kemma's locket," Cirran explained. "She never took...she never takes it off."

Walker sighed. "Spacer, I know you know that doesn't prove she's alive. He could of had it for years. What are you doing here? You must see that this is some kind of a trap!"

"Of course it's a trap!" Cirran exploded. "But what should I be doing, hiding out in the Core while that smug bastard swans about on this godsdamned station, rubbing my face in it? He was here Walker, I was here, and somewhere he was laughing...he's always one step ahead...I don't care if it is a trap! I have to find that son of a bitch to find Kemma! And when I do, so help me, if he's hurt her...he's going to pay for what he's done."

Walker nodded reluctantly. "I get that. OK, so what's your plan? Why does he even want you here? I mean, you're a potential threat, so why play these games, why not just have you killed?"

"Well maybe his reach doesn't extend that far, but I doubt it. He tracked me down in the Core when a lot of bounty hunters obviously didn't - maybe it's something to do with my parents, or my time with the Rebellion, or maybe he just wants to gloat. He's a twisted bastard. As for the plan...well, rush here headlong in a cloud of rage was about as far as I got so far."

"A bit lacking, tactically." Walker pointed out. "But I'm gonna get onto this spacer, see what I can dig up on this guy. We've got his face now, that's a mistake on his part. However - this Jax character could be anywhere in system - or gone somewhere else entirely. There's still a lot of chaos going on with the change in government, and it could make him real hard to find."

"Change in government?" Cirran asked.

Walker sighed. "Story for later, spacer. Been a few changes 'round the place while you were away. Right now though, I'm thinking we could use some sleep. And I suggest you keep your head down. Aside from the fact that this is clearly a trap you've come strolling into, there's still that whole Ares issue, in case you'd forgotten."

"I've got two remotes on my ship with a metal spike through them if I need reminding," Cirran said.

"Well, you've got my frequency." Walker said. "Call me if someone puts one through your head. I suggest we tackle this again in the morning." The two settled their account and headed back towards the lower decks.

As they parted ways, Cirran looked at his friend. "I'm gonna find this bastard, Walker," he said determinedly.

The giant clapped his friend on the back and sighed. "I admire your spirit, spacer, but from what I've seen, chances are he'll find you first," he said. "Either way, I'm sure it will be interesting for all concerned." He turned for his quarters leaving Cirran alone with his thoughts.

---

"Fierce Negotiations - Part 1"
By Connor Moonsgrave
Rila Salvari - NPC

Location: Drogan Shipyards
Date: Selene 19, 5 ABY

***

Connor got dressed and went down the stairs as fast as he could he reached the bar. "Hey, Eeron! Can you give me Hell's Freezer?"

"Sure!" Eeron said, he took a few minutes to prepare the drink and after it was finished he placed the drink in front of Connor. He saw Connor drinking one of the strongest drinks of the entire galaxy in one sip. "Wow! Nightmare?"

Connor looked at him, realizing that his hands were still shaking. "You have no idea."

Eeron gave small smile. "I had those nightmares in the past and still have them now, but not that frequent. I drink also Hell's Freezer when I have one of those." Eeron paused, seeing a beautiful woman entering his establishment, he made a signal to her. "I think that is the official drink of soldiers to drown the horrors of battle that they have seen."

"That is why most of them are drinkers, since they don't know that pain will never leave you and they keep drinking. I know!" Connor said. Boy, how do I know! That part of the pain has a permanent home in my heart. Connor stopped his thinking when the woman approached the bar and stopped next to Connor.

"Hey Eeron! Is this the guy?"

"Hi Rila. Yes, this is the man!" Eeron looked to Connor that nodded in strange to the situation. "I took the liberty in finding you job, so that you can buy your ticket to the planet."

"Thanks!" Connor said, and then looked to the Rila. "So Miss..."

"Just call me Rila."

"Okay!" Connor said. "So what kind of job you are offering?"

"Well I want you as bodyguard, during a negotiation with a local crime bosses and the Drogen Authority."

"Hum... So why not just use one of Drogen security guards?" Connor asked.

Rila laughed. "You're definitely not from here!" She continued to laugh and made an amused expression. "Look where you are! This is the lower decks of the Drogen where the scum of the galaxy live and rule. Their personal realm! No Security guard how brave or how greedy is he or she is, would never go down here. When Drogen security comes down here, comes full armed and well protected, with some times with military, fully equipped for battle."

"You see Connor!" Eeron spoke. "This is a community of criminals. Dangerous ones. There is sometimes battle between crimelords and criminal clans and they hate each other..."

"And all of them hate the security of this shipyard, because they are the ones that can have huge effect on their income and they represent the law," Rila said looking to Connor. "Anyway, the Drogen authority was able to make arrangement to meet with different factions so a territory can be established in lowers decks."

"So, what Eeron told me yesterday that Drogen Authority didn't care about this place... The lower decks! Why this interest now?"

"Well the people in the upper decks are afraid that these wars between the factions escalate to dangerous level that might affect the Shipyards itself," Rila said.

Connor studied for moment this proposition and then asked. "Is this negotiation will have some sort of publicity? Because I would like to remain dead in the eyes of some people."

"Of course not," Rila said. "You really think that the holonews would care about a negotiations, that the administration of this shipyards will surely deny, that they don't have a war between criminal factions in their lower decks. Also do really think that the Holonews would care about another negotiation? They are already tired of the large number of negotiation that the New Republic is conducting throughout the galaxy. If I only receive a letter of congratulating me for job well done, I can considered myself lucky."

"They are really that interested?"

"They are only interested that we down here don't blow up the entire shipyards. That is why they want this negotiation to happen," Rila said.

"Then, you can count with me!" Connor said.

"Excellent!" Rila said.

"You won't regret it Rila," Eeron said. "You have hired Veteran warrior."

"Hey!" Connor said like he was insulted. "I'm not that old!"

Rila and Eeron laughed at the same time. "Come on, we have lot work to do," Rila said as they walked out of Eeron's establishment.

---

"Fierce Negotiations - Part 2"
By Connor Moonsgrave
And Rila Silvari

Location: Drogen Shipyards
Date: Selene 19, 5 ABY

***

Connor watched every member of the criminal factions that controlled the lower decks of the Drogen Shipyards. He looked into the eyes of its leaders and saw pure hate and anger in their eyes, just to be part of this meeting.

Connor saw Rila speaking to the leaders in way to make a deal to with the leaders. She was a fierce negotiator that did not care the shit and the lies that some of this men and women told.

As he continued to hear the negotiation, Connor remained focused on the leaders in case on of them reminded to take some sort of action, but he could not wonder how this situation came to be. For now he wanted to blame on the society.

As he stood there wearing the proceedings of the negotiation going keeping think that something did not fit right here. Something was off picture. Something didn't add up.

Connor looked to every member of the faction trying to read their face expressions and all looked fierce and with one single look Connor saw them their eager to pick up a blaster and fire to the rest of the other members. Maybe I'm being paranoid, since this meeting with all the leaders of the criminal factions was good spot to resolve the issue of the leaders, but on the other hand, who would be so bold...

As Connor ended that line of thought he saw something under the table and he nodded to the person that was seated next to it. He seemed interested in hearing what he was saying, as Connor approached, he recognized the small suitcase and his memory flashback a few hours ago. He saw the face of the man that was carrying the suitcase and then Connor looked frenetic to every face that was inside the room, but he did not saw him.

"BOMB!" Connor screamed as he rushed near Rila the bomb itself exploded taking the people seating in it to every corner of the room. Connor was sent to near wall where he slammed hard on the wall and slid down the wall.

The loud sound made feel in his body, but mainly on his head. He tried to focus but his eyes did not focused and his hears seemed to hear things from the distance. After few seconds, felt without strength and saw almost instantly everything going black.

---

"Finders Keepers"
by Omri Kedemoth
Tara Darellia - Pilot (NPC)

Location: Drogen Shipyards
Date: Selene 19, 5 ABY

***

The commlink beeped, interrupting Omri's meditation. Calmly, Omri picked up the device and answered. It was the shipyard's chief foreman. She informed him that the overhaul of his hyperdrive was finally complete. Thanking her, Omri rose up off the grassy ground and headed out the exit of the garden atrium.

A few minutes and hundreds of levels later, he passed through the blast door to the Griffon's hanger bay. The large bay held several small vessels. Shipyard personnel and ship crews bustled around the hanger. The din of equipment competed with voices trying to yell over them.

Omri headed for his ship, then stopped. Someone was snooping around the Griffon. His hand reached for the projectile pistol in his shoulder holster, but paused after watching the figure curiously. No one would tamper with his ship here, he thought, not with all these people around.

It was a woman, with blonde hair cut just above her shoulders, wearing a leather sleeveless vest and pants. A small blaster was holstered at her hip. He did not recognize her.

She appeared agitated. Pacing from one side of the TIE scout to the other as if inspecting it, she huffed and mumbled. She seemed to be having a heated conversation with herself. Omri found it amusing and laughed to himself. As if she heard, the woman turned to him.

"Is this your ship?" she barked at him, pointing to the craft.

"Yes, it's the Griffon," Omri replied, walking toward the ship.

"Lying pile of bantha poodoo!" She shouted angrily, all but charging him. She came to an abrupt halt in front of him. "It's Tara's Freed. . . my ship!"

Omri watched the vein pop out on her forehead as she yelled at him. He was speechless.

Frustrated at Omri's dumbfounded silence, she stomped her foot and strode back over to the front of the ship, pointing fiercely to the weapons array under the cockpit chin. "Fire-linked laser cannons and concussion missile tube, not stock on a Seiner Lone Scout, civilian or imperial! My modifications!"

Walking with quick strides, she moved around to the back of the ship. Gesturing to a bubble protruding from the hull, she yelled over the hanger noise, "Additional power supply for the weapons. Mine!"

Crouching to walk under the hull, she pointed to the underside, "Llong range advanced sensor array replaced with auxiliary motivators. Me!" She moved back out, pointing vaguely at various parts of the ship, yelling as she gestured "Me, me, me, mine, mine, mine!" Her voice became more shrill with each jab of her finger.

She threw her arms up in the air in an exaggerated gesture. "And an alliance paint job to boot. Let me guess, my ship served in the rebellion while I was stuck on a crappy tramp freighter?!"

Omri had been mildly amused by the irate woman's ranting, but he was growing concerned. She seemed passionately convinced that this was her ship. He knew where the ship came from. When he found it, it had been an imperial ship with imperial markings and imperial flight protocols, and he stole it from an imperial base.

"Look, lady..." Omri interrupted. The woman charged up to him again.

"No, you look," she seethed, her finger inches from his face, "I have spent the past three years scraping up piloting and crew jobs on second-rate freighters while you were out traipsing about the galaxy in my ship! What else have you done to her, put in a bar, maybe a hydrojet tub, hey, did you pick yourself up a little zeltron hottie . . ."

"Enough!" Omri snapped, shooting out his hand, grabbing the woman's collar. The woman's eyes grew wide and her hand dropped to the blaster holstered at her side. They stared each other down for a tense moment. The sudden silence in the busy hanger caused them to look around. Everyone within earshot was staring at them. Omri slowly released his grip, and the woman took her hand off the blaster.

Omri looked around the crowd with a fake smile and an "everything's OK" gesture with his hands. After everyone went back to their business, Omri turned back to the woman. "The ship was an imperial TIE scout, I should know, I stole it from them," Omri explained, in a calm, controlled voice.

"Right, and the imperials took it from me!" The woman shot back. She got in Omri's face again, her jaw set with determination, ready to unleash another verbal barrage when a commlink beeped.

With a huff, the woman pulled it from her belt and turned a few steps away from Omri. He could only catch the tone of her voice. It was a tone much more polite that he had heard moments ago.

Turning back to him, she blurted out, "I have to meet someone about a job." She looked at Omri for a moment, then turned on her heels. She walked over to the hull of Omri's ship, popped open an access panel and yanked out a coupling connector. She walked hurriedly toward the exit, connector in hand. Turning her head back, she warned, "Sorry, but you are not going anywhere with my ship. I'll be back, and you'd better be here. I'm not through with you yet!"

Omri watched her walk out with the ship part in her hands. Stunned in amazement, He first fumed with anger, then he found himself laughing. That may have been the most bizarre encounter he'd ever had. Actually, that made two this week.

---

"Bone of Contention"
by: Omri Kedemoth
Tara Darellia - Pilot (NPC)

Location: Drogen Shipyards
Date: Selene 19, 5 ABY

***

Charging out of the hanger bay, Tara could not slow her pace as she headed for her meeting. She was so agitated she was almost shaking. It had been so exciting to see her ship, Tara's Freedom, again, yet she was infuriated to think that someone else "owned" it.

She didn't know who he was, but she knew what he was. She recognized the tattoos on his face, and the sword. He was a nexi warrior from Sacorria, the same planet where the empire took her ship. The nexi were a throwback to some ancient martial order that swore allegiance to the secretive rulers of the planet. She didn't care what or who he was, he had Tara's Freedom and that was unacceptable.

She wracked her brain, trying to figure a way to keep him from leaving with her ship. She bought some time when she ripped the coupling connector from the ship, but that can be replaced in short order. The image of him lying dead at the end of her blaster barrel came to mind, but she quickly dispelled it, not her style. If she could prove that the ship was hers, maybe station security could step in. Not likely, she thought, since the scout ship had passed through both imperial and alliance hands.

Tara approached the entrance to the smoky café. Having forgotten about the coupling connector in her hand until now, she hid it behind her back. With a deep breath she composed herself. She needed work, and this guy had an opening on his ship. In the back of her mind she hoped she wouldn't have to take the job, that she would be leaving this station on her own ship.

***

The blast door closed behind the strange woman who called him bantha poodoo and ripped a coupling connector out of his ship

Omri strolled back to the Griffon confused. Could it be her ship? It was clear that she was familiar with this ship, pointing out the modifications, knowing exactly what to rip out to disable the TIE scout. Omri walked along its length, running his hand along the TIE scout's wing. He remembered the places it had taken Kai and himself. Such memories pained him now, after his encounter with the wife he believed dead. With a sigh, he looked over the length of the ship, finally nodding to himself as if coming to a grand conclusion.

He climbed up the hatch. He had intended to make preparations to leave later that day. He could try to talk the chief foreman into getting him a replacement part right away. Instead, he grabbed his baitar from his cabin and climbed back out of the ship. Leaning against the landing strut, he began to strum the instrument. The crazy woman had told him not to go anywhere, and he didn't intend to.

---

"Discussing Progress"
By: Master Koran Darr
Master Laedra Vorrel
Master Gideon Kherris

Location: Jedi Temple
Date: Selene 19, 5 ABY

***

Jedi Master Koran Darr took a sip from the cup holding some of the tea Orn had brewed for the meeting to discuss the new Padawans who had entered the Temple recently. As usual, the tea was perfect. He had just finish his summary of the state of his own Padawan's progress. In time, he was certain she would prove to be a good addition to the Temple, though getting her to that part would be a long and twisting road.

"So, things are progressing well with Lani, though teaching a woman her age is a trial in itself," Koran said. "She has much to unlearn, but is eager to do so. What can you tell us of your time with Jeron, Gideon?"

"Jeron has considerable potential," Gideon replied. "Though, his age and upbringing will present unique challenges. By most standards he is an adult, and until recently he wasn't aware that he was in fact Human...and not a Tusken. The Force is quite strong with him and he is of an open mind to learn the Jedi ways. His spirit has not been tainted by the norms of civilization: power, materialism, self gain. He simply desires to learn and genuinely seeks a path greater than the self. In the days of the Old Order, he would not be trained. However, it is a new age for the Galaxy and for the Jedi. Were it that I had come across the young man myself, I would train him."

Koran Darr smiled as memories of his early days within the Jedi Temple on Coruscant flooded back. As was usually the case, the smile collapsed as the realization that all those he knew, all who he trained with, was taught by, were now gone. "No," he said, "this is a very different time, and one we have to adapt our Order to, instead of trying to bend it to our will. None of our young ones are ideal candidates, but they all possess great potential. Would you be interested in taking on Jeron's training?"

"It would be an honor. I did have my thoughts on the possibility after having spent some time with him. There is little else that I could teach Vaya, and she has found a new path with Master Vorrel in any case. I would imagine she would be fit to take her Trials very soon," Gideon replied.

"I agree that she is close," Koran said. "Talara as well as far as her abilities go. Though, that decision will rest with Laedra." He glanced aside and gave her a respectful nod. "What is your assessment of your Padawans, Laedra?"

"They've excelled faster than I'd anticipated," she commented. "But to be knighted?" Laedra sighed. "Vaya is as close to ready as she will ever be, I believe. Talara, now...that is another matter, which is not to say she is doing badly, but with what has happened recently, I would prefer to train with her closely and observe her before I recommend her for the Trials."

Gideon took a sip of his own cup of tea, nodding in response to Laedra's assessment. He was pleased to hear Laedra's confidence in Vaya as he genuinely believed her ready. He did not know much about many of the Jedi that trained and resided within the Temple, though he had come to familiarize himself with its members. Indeed there was much potential, they were a diverse group though there were those like Dargus, Dani and Nieme that he held concern over. He kept those thoughts to himself, having to trust in their wisdom as they knew them far better than himself. He still felt an unsettling danger upon the horizon and held concerns about the Jedi's ability to meet whatever loomed within the shadows; especially when they didn't have the slightest insight as to what the dangers may entail.

"She should return soon from the mission to Coruscant," Koran said. "While I don't feel comfortable with the circumstances how that arrangement was made, hopefully time with Liam Zaneth will be helpful for her."

"The change of perspective may help her regain her focus," Laedra agreed. "But until she does return, we should concentrate on those Padawans who are present." With this, she regarded Gideon. "Would you like to give Jeron the news, as his Master?"

"Of course," he replied. "If there is nothing else, I shall attend to my Padawan."

"You may proceed," Laedra allowed with a graceful bow.

Gideon returned the gesture to both Masters before leaving the room to find Jeron and tell him the news.

---

"It's a Date. . .Well, Not Really"
By: Omri Kedemoth
Tara Darellia - Pilot (NPC)

Location: Drogen Shipyards
Date: Selene 19, 5 ABY

***

When she returned to the hanger an hour later, Tara found Omri leaning against the ship's landing strut plucking a baitar. His casual demeanor made her angry all over again. She picked up her pace, once again to stand defiantly in front of Omri.

"I demand you turn Tara's Freedom over to me, or I will go to the authorities," she ordered in a firm voice.

Omri chuckled. "What authorities? We both no one is going to be able to trace that ship back to you." He went back to his strumming.

She huffed and crossed her arms. Of course, he was right. Blowing a puff of air at a stray lock of blonde hair that fell over her eye, she pursed her full lips and narrowed her eyes as she stared Omri down. This man was intolerable. "I will have my ship back," she fumed.

"Look, lady.." Omri started.

"Tara," she interrupted.

"What?" Omri asked.

"Tara Darellia, that's my name, not ma'am, not lady." Her sour look had not changed.

"Omri Kedemoth." Tara's glare told him a handshake was not necessary, or welcome.

"OK, Ms. Darellia," Omri continued as calmly as he could. "We seem to have a problem here, but I have a proposition for you."

She rolled her eyes, "What is it?"

"Not here," Omri replied, "tonight, at Dirg's Descent." He wanted to give her time to cool down before making the proposition.

Her eyes narrowed even more, distrustful of the man's intent. Then a smug smirk crossed her lips. "Xayled's Abyss, level 34, you're buying."

"Agreed." Omri nodded before thinking.

Once again, Tara spun on her heels and strode out of the hanger.

"Xayled's Abyss?" Omri said to himself, displeased that he agreed to meet at the "high society" club. Omri had a feeling that Tara Darellia didn't frequent such a place regularly, but was taking the opportunity at his expense. He grumbled to himself, "I just want to meet with her, not date her." Recalling the toxic glare she had given him, Omri was pretty sure that was not her intention either.

---

"Reclamation, Part 1"
By: Vrax Draydge [NPC+]
Tav [NPC]
Zale Tregat
Keeve Shivral
Liam Zaneth
Dargus Kandran
Talara Sorenne
Elf
Shaze Nightshade
Lerrah Breijal
Maeren Shivral
Kaysa Zenarr
Moril Astren
Saris

Location: Coruscant
Date: Selene 19, 5 ABY

***

The suite was crowded now, filled with mercenaries and others who were good with a blaster. 'Protection' was what Tav called them. He'd begun hiring them right after Vrax had expressed his belief that they'd lingered too long and were in danger of being found. He'd arranged for the floor below their suite to be housing for their new army. While it was designed to make them feel more secure, it wasn't working for Vrax. Tav's boss was still certain that they'd been located, and was anxious to quit the plan and flee for safety.

Tav looked across the room at where Vrax stood, gazing out of the window. He knew he was looking for ships, looking for enemies, looking for whatever spectre had haunted him these last few days. He approached, uncertain if any words could help. "Everything's set to leave tomorrow morning," he said. "Right on schedule."

"The schedule," Vrax told him gruffly, "is too far off. We should be gone already. If they're on our tail, we won't be able to put much distance between us now."

"A couple hyperspace jumps once we're off-planet, and they'll have all sort of trouble tracking us down. We just have to get out, and we'll have breathing room." He was quiet for a moment as he watched a pair of their guards talking. "He won't give up on her, you know. We'll always be looking over our shoulders as long as he's alive."

"I'm not handing her over," Vrax growled with tightly controlled rage. "I have her now and I can't give her up. She'll love me one day. I'm so close...."

"There are other options," Tav said with a smile. "Kill him, and he won't be able to come after you anymore."

"And you don't think he's brought an army of his own with him?" Vrax snorted disdainfully. "Your men can kill him if they dare, but we're still leaving."

Tav shook his head and started to turn away, but the beeping of his wristcomm caught his attention. As he read the information scrolling across the screen, Tav felt his stomach twist. His gaze snapped over to Vrax. "A ship just touched down. Origin point was Tae'Karada."

Vrax Draydge swung around, his expression a mixture of panic and savage amusement. "So, he's finally found us. I underestimated him for too long..." Then, he was in motion, stalking towards the bedroom to retrieve Kaysa. "Inform your men we move out...now!"

"Of course," Tav said. "Do you want me to retrieve our whore, or do we just leave her here?"

He was pensive for a moment as he paused at the door, wondering about the other tortures he could inflict upon Shiv with more time, but shook his head. "Cover her up good. If she makes a scene or causes trouble, slit her throat and leave her." Not waiting for Tav's response, Vrax slipped inside the room.

Tav nodded and turned toward the men lounging around the room. While Kaysa was off-limits to any but Vrax, they had all been allowed to sample Shiv's charms over the past few days they'd been in Tav's employ. After the orgy of the previous night, Tav knew they were all his. He'd even let them bring Shiv down to their floor, and doubted the girl had been able to get a single wink of sleep. Whatever ship they ended up stealing to get off Coruscant, he figured he'd chain her in the galley, and let the men go after her buffet-style.

He let his musings go as he turned to his men. He quickly began barking orders, sending some off to secure a ship at the spaceport, some to act as escort to the spaceport, and three to come with him as he went to retrieve their whore.

***

"Okay, Lerrah will fly up to the penthouse with her ship," Zale Tregat said as the others watched as the holographic model projected by Elf showed the plan in action. "One minute before arrival, we use the dorsal hatch and assemble up top. Once level to the penthouse, we blow the window and go inside. Master Zaneth and the Jedi will move to protect Kaysa and Maeren, and the rest of us take out Vrax and his helpers. Any questions?"

Zale's eyes were on Keeve in anticipation of the question he would undoubtedly ask, "Is it bad if...you know...Vrax dies?"

"Only if you're Vrax, I guess," Zale said. "The Jedi may object, but I don't."

"While our preference would be that no lives are lost," Liam Zaneth stated, "we understand the risks both sides take in actions like this. While I don't approve, I will not stop you." Dargus and Talara both nodded their agreement.

Keeve looked pointedly to Zale, knowing he was the one aching to deal the killing blow to his longtime nemesis. "I guess this means we're ready. When do we begin?"

"We'll go now," Zale said. "Best move while we've got the chance, and they're--"

The sudden beeping of Zale's comlink brought a frown to his face. "Tregat," he answered.

"They're on the move," said the voice of Shaza Nightshade. "Somehow, they figured out you were on the planet, and they bolted. Vrax's right-hand man just returned with Maeren Shivral all bundled up in a heavy coat, and then they all left."

"Blast," Zale snarled.

"They'll head for the spaceport," Keeve stated quickly, panic already seizing him. "Ours? Where are they headed, Shaza?"

"No," came Shaza's reply after a moment. "There's another. They're making for that in a caravan of transport speeders. I've got them tagged, but they're moving out of my range. Sending you the transponder codes."

They could already feel the ship lifting into the atmosphere, the powerful engines carrying them outside the spaceport and racing across the city.

"Got the codes," Lerrah said. "I've got the other spaceport on the navicomp. We'll be there in two minutes."

"Good work, Lerrah," Zale said. "Change of plans. When we get to them, the Jedi move to secure Maeren and Kaysa. The rest of us will try to take care of the rest of them. Anyone else have anything better?"

They shook their heads, though Keeve said, "Elf comes with me." Grinning at the tootling droid, Keeve explained, "He and I work well together, and I think we've got some tricks they won't be expecting."

"Okay, let's get into place," Zale said. "We may draw the attention of the local authorities. Do everything in your power to see that they're not injured or killed, and don't open fire on them. They won't know what's going on here or be able to tell who the good guys or bad guys are."

"Then they shouldn't get in the way," Keeve commented snarkily, to which Elf whistled in agreement. Keeve chuckled. "Come on, little buddy. It's time to play hero." The lively droid rolled on his castors in pursuit of Keeve, who strode from their makeshift conference room in the cramped galley, prepared for some action.

As Keeve left, so did the others to move into their places for the assault on Vrax and his people.

"Coming up on the spaceport," Lerrah called back. "Looks like Vrax's caravan is arriving there now. It's going to be close!"

"Open the hatch," Zale called.

As Lerrah swung the ship around, smaller speeders raced out of her way like a flock of fleeing birds. When Lerrah hit the thrusters, the ship rocked, and steadied, access hatch facing directly at Vrax and his people. "Go," she shouted.

The Jedi component of their ragtag army lead the way, already unclipping their lightsabers to deflect the onslaught of blaster bolts ready to loose from Vrax's soldiers, who were now spilling from the speeders. Vrax stopped, momentarily stunned by Zale's arrival, but Tav had the good sense to order his hired muscle into formation to slow down their unwelcome guests. Shots sang through the air, crossing the divide separating them from the Jedi, and that was when the mayhem began.

Alert klaxons blared in the port, and bystanders scattered, some screaming, others conserving their energy to throw themselves behind ships or cargo containers for cover. And it was amid that chaos that Zale Tregat descended from the ship, dark coils of hair swinging angrily around his face like riled serpents, and long sleeveless cloak flaring out behind him. Their eyes met, Zale's seeming to blaze red fire, and would have engulfed him in their searing heat if he hadn't heard Kaysa gasp beside him...uttering the demon's name.

"Come on," he growled, though he noted the tremor in his own voice and immediately resented Zale for it. Squeezing Kaysa's wrist painfully, he jerked her along and dashed for the starport's interior. Tav and Shiv were hot on their heels.

"They're bolting," Talara cried.

"Cut them off," Liam answered.

As one, as if acting from a single mind, the three Jedi charged forward, blades still deflecting each bolt that blazed in their direction. Three bodies leapt up, arcing high over the heads of the troops, propelled by an invisible energy force. Behind, the laser blasts resumed. Zale Tregat and Keeve took cover as they opened fire with their own weapons. Zale's collapsible staff swung out and crushed the throat of one of the mercenaries who thought to charge them. Behind one of the landing struts, Moril stood valiantly with one blaster in each fist sending cobalt bolts, shattering the image he'd so carefully cultivated as Zale's assistant. Kneeling at his side, Saris held her own blaster in a two-fisted grip, holding the mercenaries at bay with blasts accurately aimed to keep them pinned down.

As Vrax and Tav broke through the ranks of their mercenaries, pulling their captives along with them, the Jedi landed as one. Tav raised a weapon and fired and Dargus Kandran batted it away with a casual flick of his blade. Tav's eyes widened and he felt his stomach turn. "Boss," he rasped.

"Separate!" Vrax hollered madly, and veered away from Tav and Shiv. The Jedi were gaining ground on them, and Kaysa saw just that. Feigning a stumble, she sank to the ground, her knees scraping the rough decking as Vrax dragged her a short distance. "Kaysa!" he growled fiercely. "Get up!" She shook her head defiantly. Vrax pulled her up and slung her over his shoulder, her slight frame weighing him down little, and continued his dash into the port. Tav and Shiv had the same destination in mind, though their current trajectory placed the building at a farther reach, keeping her in view of Keeve. Even as he squeezed off well-placed shot after shot he was shouting her name and devising some strategy to clear a path to her.

Before Liam could say anything, Dargus was moving. He was hot in pursuit of Vrax and Kaysa, and only a few paces behind Zale. He turned to Talara, who remained at his side. "Go help Keeve," he said, indicating where Keeve was moving toward Tav with droid in tow. "We can take care of things down here."

Talara nodded and chased after Keeve and Elf.

***

With Dargus Kandran just behind him, Zale sprinted through the building Vrax had entered. Somehow, even with Kaysa over his shoulder, Vrax was staying ahead of them. Zale suspected it was desperation on Vrax's part. He crashed through another door and leapt the rack of flimsiplast pamphlets that had been flung in his path. He could see Vrax just ahead and pushed himself further, faster. As much as his legs burned and chest ached, Zale would not give up the chase, not with being so close.

A door banged open ahead, and Zale pressed on. Vrax was partway up the conveyor ramp Zale encountered on the opposite side, and while Vrax's path was clear as he jostled passengers making their way to the top with luggage in hand, Zale's was hampered by those same people now staggering about in Vrax's wake. Duffels and cases ripped from the casual grips of their owners rolled down the ramp, creating high-speed hurdles for Zale. Kaysa and Vrax reached the top and vanished from sight in the bright tunnel leading to the rooftop landing pad.

By the time they finally did reach the top, Zale was cursing under his breath. He looked around and a panic suddenly gripped his chest. There were two exits. Vrax could have gone through either. Zale closed his eyes and decided. With a ragged breath, he started forward.

"Wait," Dargus called. "The other one."

Zale glanced back at Dargus, and let out a long sigh. All the past between them played out in his mind's eye, each twist and turn. Yet, despite all of that, there was something very different in Dargus' eyes. Zale nodded. He'd trust his former enemy. And so he turned and started toward the other exit.

The tunnel led up, and after several moments, fed out onto the roof.

Bursting out into the open, Coruscant's gleaming sun momentarily blinding him, Vrax looked back into the dark corridor and saw nothing but darkness. He chuckled harshly, and wheezed to Kaysa, "Just you and me, my love. He's lost his way..."

Kaysa remained silent as she dangled over his shoulder, listening to Vrax comm whoever was left on the ground to come and retrieve him. With what little strength as possessed her, Kaysa craned her neck to gaze out into the tunnel. She'd seen Zale - at least she thought she had down below - and now strained to seek him out in the darkness, to salvage the hope that he truly had come for her. But as Vrax severed the connection and finally set her down onto both feet, optimism faded and only Vrax's smile auguring a future of grief and desolation faced Kaysa now. "Don't worry," he was assuring her, smoothing a mangled hand over her cheek, "we'll be safe soon. Soon, my love."

Then, Kaysa experienced a surge of vigor, a compulsion to dictate her own destiny that didn't include Vrax as her lover. She barely registered the shocked, agonized expression that altered Vrax's face after her knee had mashed into his groin before she was off and running, seeking her freedom and aiming to find it over the rooftop's edge, but not before whispering farewells to all she adored, and a sorrowful apology to her daughter who would now never know her mother's love.

***

The inside of the terminal had been perfect as a means to escape their pursuers, except their pursuers happened to be relentless in their pursuit. At first, his hostage had proved willful, but a well-placed strike and the threat of more had kept her moving. With the brat so close, her hope of rescue was enough to want her to stay alive. The threat of pain and death had earned her cooperation, as much as he could expect to have it.

Tav had found that firing back at the brat was worthless, as the little bitch following him just blocked all of his shots with her laser sword. He kept his weapon trained on Shiv now as they pressed through the crowd. He pulled a death stick vendor down behind them, leaving the sallow-skinned man cursing in their wake. They bolted through another door and found themselves in a large, windowed room. Tav felt his heart leap. Somehow, they'd made it to the entrance into the spaceport. Freedom was just before them.

As Tav moved forward, weapon still trained on his captive, he glanced back. The brat hadn't won through yet. "Out of the cloak," he growled. Somehow, he didn't think Vrax would mind his uncovering the bitch now.

Shiv hesitated, but as Tav appeared ready to whip her with the butt of the blaster again, she complied. As the cloak came off, Tav grabbed it and dropped it on the path toward one of the other exits, then pushed Shiv toward the exit opposite. He didn't know if the brat would fall for the deception, but anything would help now.

He couldn't help admiring her figure as she stumbled ahead of him. She was clad in fishnets that disappeared into heavy boots on one end and a pair of black bikini cut shorts on the other. Her top was made of mesh and sleeveless, held in place by a leather collar with silver ring at her throat. It made no effort to cover or obscure her small breasts. Mesh fingerless gloves were pulled up past her elbows to complete the ensemble. Tav smiled to himself as the second part of his plan fell into place as others began to look. He was counting on the crowd moving in for a better look at the near-naked woman in their midst, blocking the view from the brat.

Keeve wasn't honoured with such a sight, having been thrown off by Shiv's abandoned cloak. Starting through the doorway to which it lead, he didn't notice the commotion beginning behind them in the marketplace, but he did notice his name being shouted. And it was Shiv's voice uttering the word. Keeve stopped and whirled around at the very moment Tav's hand struck her cheek in the midst of a growing throng of voyeurs and lechers. Maeren stumbled, pressing a hand to her abused cheek. Then, Keeve bolted, anger exceeding the shock of her appearance, and plunged into the gathering crowd. "Talara! You're with me! Elf...get ahead of them if you can. Toot!"

The droid tootled a response and rolled off in the opposite direction. Talara on the other hand remained at Keeve's side as he pushed forward.

Tav dragged Maeren out onto the street, free of the crowd and the spaceport. He started moving away from the scene now that he knew Keeve was onto them. He hoped he'd knocked one of the bitch's teeth out with the slap. "Come on," he snarled at her. "Before I decide to save myself and put a blaster bolt into your skull right before lover boy."

Shiv's only response was lost in a fearful sob.

Wading through the curious onlookers still jostling for a good view of Shiv's scantily attired form, Tav and Shiv achieved a tremendous lead by the time Keeve and Talara had finally burst through the crowd. "Stop!" he hollered, though held no illusions his command would be heeded. Shooting off his blaster was out of the question, not until they were closer and he wouldn't risk hitting Shiv, but his finger itched to do so - anything to liberate her. "Talara, can't you slow them down?" he asked, breathlessly now. "Those barrels over there!" Keeve pointed to a vendor's cart up ahead, beside which was stacked containers of goods. "Can't you work your magic on those?"

Talara nodded and stepped forward. She reached a hand outward toward the barrels. She could feel them, their weight and presence, as if they were a part of herself. As her arm moved, so did they, straight toward where Tav and Shiv were fleeing. Tala let them go, and the barrels crashed to the ground, breaking open and spilling their contents across the road.

Tav stumbled as he tried to stop, turning to find another route of escape. The delay was costly, however, and it gave Keeve a chance to reduce the distance between them. When Shiv looked back and saw Keeve racing forward relentlessly, hope shone in her face. This time, when she called his name, Tav was too preoccupied with trying to find a way to freedom that he didn't bother slapping her.

Realization dawned that there was no way out. An arm snaked around Shiv's waist and he pulled her in front of him. He gave Keeve a slow, murderous smile as he brought his weapon up under Shiv's chin. "Another step, and you're going to kill her," he called out.

Keeve and Talara slowed to a halt, his blaster held in plain sight to ease Tav's tension. "You're making a mistake here," Keeve warned him. "Vrax is long gone - you think he'd be waiting for you?"

"I have no doubt he cut and run," Tav answered. "But, I'm out here protecting myself, and this little girlie's my protection. You let me go, and you'll get your girlie back once I'm safe. Try to stop me, you may get me, but you'll also get a corpse back."

Keeve whistled once and heard an answering chirp. He grinned slowly. "Want to bet on it?"

Tav looked between Keeve and Talara, his expression pure confusion. What he failed to see was the purple and white astromech droid as it flew up on a pair of rocket jets, coming straight in behind him. From the arm extended from the droid's chassis, an arc of electricity zapped out and hit Tav's shoulder. As his brain sent the signal to pull the trigger on the blaster in his hand, it got lost in the electrical jumble caused by Elf's blast. Instead of closing, his hand popped open and the blaster clattered to the ground. He let out a wordless cry that quickly turned to a pain-filled shout, as Shiv broke free of his hold and sent a booted foot into his groin. She stumbled forward, straight toward Keeve.

His arms were open and waiting for her, in spite of the past indecision that had nagged him. Letting his blaster fall, Keeve trapped Shiv in his embrace, lifting her clear off the ground. "Nice outfit," he whispered, his voice thick and filled with emotion.

"I wore it special for you," she murmured against his chest. "Oh Keeve. I kept watching for you, hoping you'd come. I'm so sorry. I'm so sorry, I'll never...never again...I'm so sorry..."

He squeezed his eyes shut, the words leaving his lips physically paining him. "You...you couldn't help it. It's...you need more than one person can give you." Pulling back his head, he gazed at her apologetically and murmured, "It's part of your programming."

"Vrax told me," Shiv said. "I...I didn't have a choice. They made me... You found me though..."

"Yeah." Keeve smiled wanly. "I did." Looking past her, he whistled at Elf. "Make sure he's tied up securely. I expect you can drag him back to the ship?"

Elf whistled happily as Talara helped him secure Tav.

"Looks like he's not going to be getting out of this," Talara called.

"Good." Setting Shiv down, Keeve motioned towards the port. "Let's go. We can help out back there." He grinned crookedly. "You can still fire a blaster, can't you?"

She grinned. "Definitely can. I can think of a couple people I'd like to shoot with one too." She cast a significant glance at Tav.

"After he's been interrogated," Keeve quipped. Collecting his blaster from the ground, he handed it to Shiv, then pulled another from within his vest. "Come on. Moril and Saris could use our help."

The three made their way back to the spaceport, Elf rolling along behind them with Tav being dragged through the square. The little droid chirped and tootled in what distinctly resembled exuberance to Keeve. Despite the seriousness of what they were there to do, Keeve couldn't help cracking a smile.

---

"Reclamation, Part 2"
By: Vrax Draydge [NPC+]
Tav [NPC]
Zale Tregat
Keeve Shivral
Liam Zaneth
Dargus Kandran
Talara Sorenne
Elf
Shaze Nightshade
Lerrah Breijal
Maeren Shivral
Kaysa Zenarr
Moril Astren
Saris

Location: Coruscant
Date: Selene 19, 5 ABY

***

"Kaysa!"

The deep, resonant voice struck a chord in her, sparked a glimmer of light into her deadening soul. Still running towards the edge, Kaysa glanced back, and through the blur of her tired eyes she saw a vague outline of a man - knew that broad, tall frame and dark flesh without visible facial features to define him. She stared hard at the illusory figure, expecting it to disappear with every blink of her eye. But there it remained, and when it cried out to her again, Kaysa halted just as she reached the edge and swayed precariously.

"Zale," she croaked. Summoning a deep breath, she called loudly, "Zale!" Her eyes glazed over with tears, worsening her vision, but Zale was still there, shining brightly like a beacon. And towards him her frail legs carried her, her singular focus reaching him and not the large shape hurtling towards her.

Her breath left her in a large gush as Vrax slammed into her with arms wound tightly about her waist. He swung around, Kaysa's head spinning dizzily, until she was staring out over the building while he confronted Zale. "Stay back!" he warned.

In one hand Zale held a blaster, and the other gripped his collapsible combat staff. "Let her go, Draydge," he shouted. "Let her go!"

At his side, Dargus Kandran's lightsaber flared to life and it was an effort not to reach out and crush the life of his one-time employee with the Force.

Vrax Draydge was laughing harshly at the two men. "My enemy and my former employer working together to bring me down? Isn't this sweet," he jeered while attempting to keep Kaysa from thrashing free of his hold. "Get back - both of you! She ran off on you, Tregat. What makes you think she wants rescuing now?"

"Would you object to asking her, Vrax," Zale asked. "Or are you afraid she'll answer that she does wish to be rescued?"

"I hate you," Kaysa whispered. Vrax's grip tightened. "I won't ever love you - I never have. All those nights...you might as well have been having sex with a hologram because I felt nothing. Just let me go and maybe you'll survive."

"I don't care!" he hollered, dropping her to her feet and gripping her shoulders. "I'll love you even if you hate me. You're mine!"

"Vrax," Zale called, starting forward. "You're too close to the-- Stop!"

Dargus was racing beside him.

It seemed as if the two were struggling kilometers away, and neither would reach them in time.

"Vrax!" Kaysa shouted as he steered them to the brink, realizing his intent was to possess her fully into eternity. "Don't do it!" She dug her heels into the ground, slowing him barely, while her entreaties fell on deaf ears. But, she managed to grab his attention. "Vrax...no! You'll...you'll hurt the baby!"

His vacant, wild-eyed stare sparked with comprehension as the words left her lips. He stopped where Kaysa could see straight down into the busy spaceport far below. The wind swirled around them tempestuously, Kaysa's hair strewn across her face and blotting Vrax momentarily from view. It didn't matter - she knew precisely where he stood.

She felt his hand come up to stroke her cheek, and his trembling voice whispered with a sad joy, "Kaysa...our child..."

And then, she shoved...hard. Caught offguard, Vrax's footing wasn't secure and after a moment of teetering, his feet slid out from under him as the nothingness over the building's edge claimed him. Kaysa, too, was nearly thrown forward by the push, but managed to stay upright. It made no difference. A tightness developed around her wrist, and it was not until she was thrust headlong over the ledge that she realized it was Vrax's hand dragging her down.

"NO!"

Zale Tregat had charged forward as soon as he realized what was happening. She was slipping away, disappearing over the edge and out of his life. Legs pumping like a pair of pistons, he leapt over and into the abyss after her. When his hand touched her wrist, he knew he was already too far over. At least they would enter the abyss together, he thought as he watched the ground racing up to meet them.

***

"Whoa." Keeve had slowed to a jog, then a stroll as they re-entered the starport's ship docks and came upon the swath of defeated henchmen strewn about in various poses. Reaching Moril and Saris, who were directing the clean-up, Keeve asked, "You did this?"

Moril indicated the Jedi a few paces off talking to a security officer. Occasionally, he would wave a hand before the officer's face and the man's eyes would glaze over. "He did most of it," he said. "Saris and I do make a good team though. Have you seen Zale?"

Keeve shook his head. "We got split up a while back. He went after Vrax and Kaysa." Jerking his thumb towards a cloaked figured following with Talara and Elf, Keeve explained, "Was doing some rescuing of my own."

"Shiv," Moril breathed. "She's alright?"

"Not sure yet," he muttered dourly. "I mean physically, yeah, but...." He sighed, recalling her manner of dress. Keeve doubted Tav was merely showing off his prize. "We'll talk about it later. We need to track down Zale first."

"We're going to have to get out of here soon," Saris said. "I don't think Liam's going to be able to keep those security people at bay for much longer."

"Then let's get going," Keeve urged. His attention drawn towards one of the security personnel beginning to raise his voice to Liam, Keeve amended, "Though, we'd better get on the ship and have Lerrah takes us up for an aerial search. I think we've overstayed our welcome."

"Good idea," Moril said. He signalled to Lerrah as he started backing off. Saris gave Master Zaneth a quick update on their plan.

"A nice cup of kaffe would be nice," he said to the security man.

"I sure could use a cup of kaffe," the man echoed, and then turned and wandered off in search of the beverage.

Liam nodded to Saris, and they both followed Moril to the waiting ship. He was about to ask Keeve if he needed assistance when the young man and droid managed to get their captive up onto the ship, Maeren Shivral just behind them.

"Button it up," Lerrah called back. "We've got about five incoming security speeders."

Even before she finished, the ship was lifting off. Maeren reached over and hit the pad to the side of the door, and the double airlocks started closing. "We're in," she hollered back. She looked to Keeve, who was watching Elf secure Tav. "It's good to be going home again."

Keeve couldn't bring himself to respond, knowing the sorrow that awaited Shiv when they returned to Tae'Karada and learned about he and Kim. Smiling weakly, Keeve turned and departed for the front of the ship to gain a better vantage during their search.

As she watched him go, Shiv felt her eyes burning and her stomach twisting. She blinked away her tears and followed, giving Keeve the distance he seemed to want. He'd rescued her, but he was keeping himself distant. She couldn't blame him, but to see him walk away it hurt in ways she couldn't remember feeling before. She just hoped there was something for her when she got home.

Having reached the cockpit, Keeve leaned over Lerrah's shoulder from behind, seeking what they were searching for through the forward viewer. "Any sign of them yet?"

"Not yet," Lerrah said. "I had to circle around to avoid some of those security speeders. I'm coming back up on the spaceport now. I'm not picking up anything on the scanners. They must still be-- Oh wait. There, on top of the building, the rooftop landing pad!"

Moril, Saris, and Keeve crowded around Lerrah as she magnified the sector of interest. And there they were, Kaysa and Vrax struggling precariously close to the building's edge while Zale and Dargus were attempting to get close to the two. "I don't like this," Keeve muttered worriedly. "Can we fly in any closer?"

Lerrah didn't answer, instead focusing on getting her ship closer. They were still too far out, and trying to move too quickly could create enough turbulence in the area that they would knock them right off the top of the building.

Before Lerrah could bring them close enough, Kaysa turned and gave a mighty shove to Vrax. As the man struggled to regain his footing, there was a moment of glorious hope. As his hand clamped over Kaysa's wrist, Shiv let out a sharp intake of breath.

"No!"

As Zale followed after Kaysa, trying to grab her, Lerrah bit her lip and tried to push her ship in closer but knew there was no way she'd be able to make it in time. "Oh gods," she whispered.

Keeve closed his eyes, unwilling to watch his mother and father plummeting to their deaths. In doing so, he didn't see the gleaming, streamlined vessel swooping in from the clouds like a wraith hawk on the hunt. He heard Lerrah gasp Shaza's name and Keeve's eyes snapped open.

The black shape disappeared below the edge of the building where Kaysa and Zale had gone over.

***

"Kaysa," Zale shouted as they tumbled toward the streets below. "I'm sorry I'm late."

Kaysa simply gazed up at Zale, their hands linked, and a serene smile touched her lips. "I love you," she mouthed, and waited for the ground to come up beneath them while staring into her husband's eyes and finding peace there.

"I love you too," he returned.

Out of nowhere, before their lives could end on the streets below, a sleek, black form slipped beneath them. The landing was jarring, but they were now no longer falling. From within the cockpit of the ship, craning her head around to make sure they were alright, Shaza Nightshade gave Zale and Kaysa a quick salute. Her eyes then widened, and she quickly pointed just beyond Zale.

He turned in time to see Vrax regaining his feet and charging forward across the back of Shaza's ship. Zale quickly made sure Kaysa was safe where she was at, and got to his feet as well. He reached for his collapsible staff, but couldn't find it. No doubt, it'd slipped from his hand when he went over the edge of the roof. "You can't win, Vrax!"

He bared his teeth viciously, while one hand disappeared behind his back. "Can't I?" Vrax rasped and produced a vibrodagger as he lunged at Zale's chest.

Stepping to his left, Zale snapped up his forearm to block the attack. As he knocked the blade wide, he threw a quick jab at Vrax's gut. In the distance, the security speeders were moving closer. As Vrax recovered from the punch, he swung in to cut at Zale again.

This time, instead of trying to block or deflect the blow, Zale closed his hand around the blade. The glove covering the hand shredded immediately, but the metallic glint of the prosthetic gleamed through. The vibroblade could barely scratch the alloys used to construct Zale's false hand.

With a slow smile, Zale cocked back his arm and sent his fist crashing into Vrax's face.

He staggered back, nearly running out of ship to stand on as he reached the edge. Windmilling his arms desperately, then dropping to his knees, Vrax maintained his balance and offered a smile, teeth coated in blood. "You shouldn't hurt me," Vrax warned tauntingly. "Then what'll Kaysa tell her child about its father?"

"Kaysa," Zale called back, never taking his eyes off his adversary, "what do you think you should say?"

Laying flat atop the ship, clothing fluttering rapidly and hair swirling about her head, Kaysa raised her head trepidly. "I say..." she hollered, her eyes fixed to Vrax, who was watching her intently, urging her on with a nod of his head. The hopeful, victorious gleam in his eye was inexplicably heartaching to look at, despite the harm he'd inflicted upon her. Still, she hated him too much to hold any pity for the man. "I would tell him," she began again with far more conviction now, "that it was a lie. There is no baby!"

"No!" Vrax hissed. The joy in his expression visibly shattered. He shook his head wildly, sending ruddy curls bouncing with a madness to match his own. "You're lying!" he shouted. "You're lying for him!" A rumbling growl reverberated deep within his chest as Vrax bent low, and when it burst free of his lips in a deafening cry he sprang forward with arm swung back and dagger poised to strike Zale. "She's mine! You won't get in the way of our love!"

The vibroblade hit with a smack.

Its blade was driven between Zale's closed fingers where his fist clenched it tightly so it came to rest mere centimeters from his chest. The microdrives whirred within the vibroblade, but still they could cause Zale's artificial hand no damage.

"I've waited a long time for this," Zale snarled.

He gave the weapon a violent twist, the servos in the prosthetic noticeably loud even in the din created by the ship. His open palm hammered into Vrax's elbow as his body shifted, and from a half-crouch he snapped out a kick that took Vrax in the chest. As Vrax tried to regain his suddenly unbalanced footing, Zale let go of the vibrodagger.

Kaysa watched as Vrax, arms spread wide, tipped back and back until he was parallel with the ship. His head turned her way and their eyes locked. No resentment resided there, only a tenderness and regret Kaysa didn't expect from. He loved her, even now, in his twisted way. She couldn't hate him for it, not entirely - she only wished he had chosen better for himself. And before the pummeling wind carried him off, Kaysa closed her eyes, wondering if it, too, would claim her, and if she still desired it to. She had no idea if she was grateful to be alive. Not until she heard her name and Zale fighting the wind to approach her. "Don't move!" she pleaded. "Just hang on!"

"I'm here," Zale whispered close to her. "I'm here, my love, and I'm never letting you out of my sight again."

A hatch in the back of the ship opened, and a black-enameled protocol droid appeared and gestured them toward the hatch. The droid uncoiled a line and snaked it out toward Zale and Kaysa to help them pull their way into the ship. "Security forces are enroute," the droid said, its voice projecting easily despite the noise of the ship and city, "you will want to enter the ship now."

Zale nodded as he took the cable in one hand and moved to help Kaysa. "I'll...I'll need to check on Keeve...he went after Maeren."

"What the hells is he doing here?" she queried, but without her usual fire. "I don't want to see anyone," she whispered. "I need to be alone."

"He came for Maeren, I know," Zale said. "I think a part of him is starting to see the light too, and a part of him wanted to see his mother returned home." He was silent for a moment as they moved toward the hatch. "Kaysa, may I stay with you?"

She stared hard at her hand gripping the cable, focusing to keep back the tears. After a moment, she nodded and turned her face into his chest to block out the world.

He enfolded her in one arm, and remained so for as long as he dared. Though it was only a minute, at most, it seemed to stretch out much longer. Finally, he leaned close to her ear. "We need to go inside, so that we can leave this place."

"I know," she whispered, raising her eyes towards his, "but I'm afraid of having to face what I've done. It would've been easier to let me fall, Zale."

"Aria and I disagree," Zale said. "I don't think I could go on without you, knowing that the glimmer of hope I'd been holding onto had been finally snuffed out, and the woman I love was gone forever. I do hope you still want to be a part of my life, and that you want me in yours, and our little girl."

"Of course I do," she replied emphatically. "I just need to think about things." Smiling weakly, Kaysa nodded and gripped Zale's arm as she prepared to climb into the opening. "Stay with me?"

"Most definitely," Zale answered with an affirming nod.

After the two ducked into the vessel and the hatch slid into place behind them, Kaysa and Zale sought out Shaza in the cockpit to settle in for the ride back to the spaceport. Then, it would be on to home, and that Kaysa was dreading most.

---

"Reclamation, Part 3"
By: Zale Tregat
Keeve Shivral
Liam Zaneth
Dargus Kandran
Talara Sorenne
Elf
Shaza Nightshade
Lerrah Breijal
Maeren Shivral
Kaysa Zenarr
Moril Astren
Saris

Location: Coruscant
Date: Selene 19, 5 ABY

***

It had taken a bit of work to get away from all of the security officials swarming the area where Kaysa and Maeren had been rescued, but they had managed. Once they were certain they were safe, they had convened inside Lerrah's ship for a quick meeting before breaking away from the planet and returning to Tae'Remok.

"I don't think we need to worry about any pursuit," Shaza was saying. "I think that last pass through the main port while switching transponders threw them off. They probably couldn't find us now if they were the best in the business, at least not in time for us to finish here and be on our way."

Lerrah and Maeren were sitting together, and Zale couldn't help noticing that Keeve was keeping his distance from both the two and Talara. Kaysa had said nothing, though he couldn't blame her. He'd stayed close, but not too much so. "Just to lighten things up for living conditions, Moril, Saris, Kaysa and myself will go with Shaza. The rest of you can remain here on Lerrah's ship for the trip home." He looked at Keeve. "Any objections?"

With Talara and Shiv's expectant gazes flanking him as they sat on either side, Keeve refrained from answering. "Contact us before you make any jumps."

"We will," Zale said. "If there's nothing else, let's go ahead and get moving." As everyone started moving away, Zale took a few steps away from everyone else. "Keeve, can I have a moment?"

He nodded and approached Zale. Keeve waited until the room was clear before prompting his father. "Something wrong?"

"That's what I wanted to ask you," Zale said. "Are you alright with these travel arrangements? With Maeren and Talara here?"

"Sure," he lied. "It'll be...interesting trying to avoid being caught in the same room as them. And besides," he joked, "I can handle two women at once. It's whether or not they can handle me that's still an open question."

"You need to work at lying more convincingly," Zale said with a chuckle. "The closer you get to either of those two, the louder your knees knocking together gets. You may have to tell Shiv the truth of the situation before you get back, but I'll leave that up to you. Oh, and before I go, did you notice Lerrah making eyes at you?"

"Oh gods," Keeve groaned, slumping down onto the nearest chair, "I don't think I'm going to make it home alive. I'm just too nice! I can't break their hearts!"

"I can't count the number of men who would kill to be in your boots," Zale said. "You've got three options as I see it: break their hearts; string them along; or give in."

"To all three?" He was incredulous and amused. "I'd never leave the bedroom, Zale. You might be able to do it, but..." Keeve shrugged, letting out a long sigh. "I'll figure it out. What about you? Have you decided what to do with Kaysa?"

"Help her as much as I can," Zale answered. "I don't know how it's going to go, but I won't give up on her. I love her, and I hope we can make our marriage work. We'll see. With your harem, I don't recommend stringing them along, it's not fair to them, and it's not going to help you to have to go through that. In the end, I say follow your heart."

"Right," he snorted. "If I did that, I'd have to marry Kallia, too." Clapping Zale on the shoulder, Keeve quipped, "Great advice. I doubt Kim would appreciate it."

Zale laughed. "You don't know her very well, do you," he said. "This is Kim we're talking about, right?"

"Oh, leave me alone," Keeve muttered sullenly, "and go talk to your wife. I need to find some way to avoid Talara and Shiv until we get home."

"Just be glad Lerrah's a lesbian," Zale said with a laugh. "Have a safe trip, Keeve. I'll see you back on Tae'Karada."

"You too...and thanks for taking me along." Keeve grinned endearingly. "It's been fun...Dad." With a half-executed wave, Keeve turned and departed.

Zale chuckled to himself as he returned to Kaysa to help her back over to Shaza's ship.

Before Keeve could get too far, Talara caught up with him. "Lerrah's helping Maeren find a bed to get some sleep, and some spare clothes, then she'll be taking us out of here."

He nodded. "Good. She's been through a lot. And so have you. Aren't you tired?"

"Not at all, but if you want me to leave you alone, I will," Talara answered.

Sighing wearily, Keeve gave a dismissive wave and muttered, "No...it's okay. Though while you're here, I might as well tell you how good you did out there. You didn't get killed or anything." He grinned.

"Thanks," Talara said with a smile. "You were pretty good yourself. Though, I really think that Elf was the hero of the day."

"Isn't he great? I don't doubt he got much of what he knows from me."

Talara laughed. "Oh, I'm sure that's it," she said. "So, he's Lerrah's astrodroid. Do you think you'll see him again soon after this?"

"I hope so," he answered sincerely. "He was my best friend for a while when I was smaller. We had a lot of fun."

"Lerrah lives on the space station, you know," Tala said. "I bet you could visit with her and him whenever you wanted. She...well, she and Maeren, were talking before the meeting, and Maeren said that maybe if you didn't want her around anymore, she could live with Lerrah on the station."

Keeve halted abruptly and whirled on Talara. "She said that?" he exclaimed. "What else did she mention? Did she seem sad, or angry or.... Did she talk about Kim at all?"

"Briefly," Tala answered. "And, she seemed sad mostly. She said you seemed very distant and that you didn't really seem to want to have her near you."

"That's not it," Keeve explained. "It's only that I don't want her thinking things are like they used to be. I'm trying to get up the nerve to tell her about me and Kim...but she's been through so much...it'd just kill her right now."

"I don't think it'd kill her," Talara said. "I think it'd be just one more thing to bring her down, but she'll go on. I think she knows things aren't going back to normal with the two of you, but I think she's also thinking that staying near you will be too painful if you don't want to be with her anymore."

"So I should break it off now?" he presumed. "Or is it that you want me to because you just want me all for yourself?"

Tala sighed. "If it ever came to a point where you loved me and wanted me to be with you, Keeve, I would happily share you with Maeren and Kim, just for the chance to have some of your love. But, you're unlikely to ever feel that way, so what I want or don't doesn't even matter. As far as telling Maeren, I think you should tell her soon before her own imagination conjures up all sorts of scenarios for her. One thing you'll want to keep in mind, while I can love you, yet be happy with your friendship, I don't think Maeren will be able to stay close and just be a friend. I think that's why she's thinking of going to the station with Lerrah."

"Maybe she should," Keeve admitted with a rueful sigh. "If it'll make her happy, then it's for the best. And don't you dare look at me like I'm a heartless bastard," he chided, waggling a finger at Talara. "I am trying. Doesn't that count for something?"

"I guess it counts a little," Tala said with a grin. There was a mischievous glint in her eye. "Would you prefer that I not come around anymore, Keeve? I'm sure if Maeren and I stayed away, you would be a much more happy and less sullen man."

Keeve smiled wanly and playfully elbowed her arm. "It's not you, Tala. We're friends first, remember? And, because you absolutely adore me, it gives us another sort of bond...something stronger."

"I know," she said with a smile. "I don't think I would ever want to not be able to see you. It's nice being able to go to someone who isn't a Jedi Knight to talk to. It's different with Maeren though, and I think her friendship with Lerrah will be best. But, make sure you are certain this is what you want. Don't just think about what's best for Maeren, you're part of this too."

"That's what I'm saying!" Keeve grumbled and shook his head irritably. "No one ever cares about how this will affect me. Why am I always the bad guy? Because I'm a guy?"

"I do care, Keeve," Tala said. "I think all of us do, and we all care about you. And, whatever it may seem, you're not the bad guy. I think we all want ourselves to be the one you choose, but Kim's the lucky one who gets your love and gets to be with you. It's not because you're a guy...it's just because you're the one we all...want to be with. I guess it's not fair of us since you've made your choice."

Keeve smiled faintly and squeezed Talara's shoulder. "Thanks. I'm glad one person understands."

"I think I've always understood," she said. "It was getting to the point of accepting that I had trouble with. I don't know how easy it will be for Maeren, but I think she'll get there." She gave him a smile and shook her head. "Remember what we talked about on the way here? You don't have to, it's alright."

Keeve momentarily did have trouble recalling, and even when he did, still feigned ignorance. "I...well..." he stammered, grasping for some shred of recollection, but truly taking a moment to glance around the corridor to ensure privacy. When he was sure they were alone, Keeve adeptly leaned over, grasped Talara's chin, and turned her face up towards his. He was grinning suavely as their lips met, and delivered a smouldering kiss.

Talara felt her heart flutter as they kissed. It had been a surprise, her Force senses had not even given her a warning as to his intentions. Her arms were around his body and holding herself steady against his back. The kiss was everything she'd ever expected it to be, and more, and the reason she had told herself she didn't want it...no matter how much she did. When he finally pulled away and the kiss ended, it felt as if all the warmth in the galaxy had been taken away. "Oh," she murmured once her senses had returned. "Keeve...I...that was...wow."

"That good, hm?" He chuckled. "So...I've fulfilled my end of the bargain sufficiently?"

She looked up at him, looking somewhat hurt, and nodded. "Yes, it's fulfilled."

Keeve frowned admonishingly at Talara, keeping her chin gently cupped in his hand to prevent her from turning away. "Don't do this, Tala. Don't make me feel guilty about keeping my promise."

"You didn't have to, Keeve," Talara said. "If you didn't want to kiss me, you didn't have to. You shouldn't have. And, if you didn't want to, you shouldn't have kissed me like that. And then laugh at me."

"I'm not laughing at you," he assured her softly. "And the kiss...I wouldn't have kissed you like that if it's not what I felt." Keeve's mouth spread into a wide grin. "It was a pretty nice kiss, wasn't it?"

"It was amazing, Keeve," Talara said. "But, you're going to marry Kim. And now I'm going to remember that kiss every time I look at you. Unless you're saying that every so often you want to kiss me like that again."

"Tala...you're a Jedi," he reminded her incredulously. "You can't...want that. And it wouldn't be right of me to indulge you if it's going to throw you off the path again. You know what happened with Dani and Nieme. I'm not going to do that to you, Tala."

Talara sighed. "There was more to that than just sex, Keeve," she said. "Master Laedra Vorrel and Master Koran Darr are lovers. They're good responsible Jedi, and they can be together and it doesn't hurt them or the order. Nieme and Dani were evil, well Nieme was. Dani was just there to temper Nieme's evilness. But, it wasn't any of the sensuality or sexiness that caused it. With the Padawans now, that sort of attachment is disallowed so that the Padawans will focus on their training." She gave him a smile. "I'm much more aware of myself and the Force than I was before, with Nieme and Dani. I think I'm probably even ready for the trials. I can want it, Keeve, and still be a Jedi. But, more than that, before I wanted those feelings from wherever I could get them, despite my training and all of that. Now, you're the only one I even think about, when I have time to think about things other than being a Jedi. If you don't want to kiss me or anything, then don't it because that's what you don't want, not out of fear of me returning to the dark side. I promise you, I won't fall again."

"Talara...." he sighed, his eyes pleading with her to cease laying more guilt upon him. He already held regret over what he was required to do to Shiv. Finally, Keeve could say nothing more but, "Talara...I'm sorry, no. It can't happen."

She smiled as she looked into his eyes. "As long as it can't happen because you don't want it, not using my being a Jedi or being afraid I'll succumb to the dark side as excuses. That's all I want, Keeve. I can handle you not wishing to be with me because you can't or don't want to, but not if you use what happened because of Nieme and Dani as an excuse." Her grin turned mischievous. "In any case, it's your loss."

His smile was crooked and intrigued. "Really? Are you flaunting your sexual prowess? I didn't know the Temple taught you such things."

"Oh, that's not Temple learning," she said. "But, I do know a lot." She gave him a slow, seductive smile. "But, you're not interested in knowing what I know."

"You're a menace," he told her, chuckling. "Now, before you pique my curiousity to a point where I'll be forced to act on it, I'm going to my room. I need to contact Kim." And bending forward, he laid a kiss on Talara's cheek. His eyes searching hers, Keeve whispered playfully, "Don't get into trouble now all on your own. Promise to be good?"

"I promise," Tala said. "You'll be off in your room, so there won't even be temptations out here." She gave him a grin, then kissed his cheek. "Say hi to Kim for me."

"Right..." He cast a skeptical look askance at her, wondering if she really was intent on coming between he and Kim. She definitely was a vixen, and no longer the child he'd once known...which convinced Keeve it was time to re-evaluate their friendship. Giving her a wave and starting off towards his room, he wondered when he'd become so wary of her.

***

The ship had slipped into hyperspace an hour ago and things were going smoothly. Liam Zaneth had checked in on the others. Talara was meditating, Dargus was trying to talk to Lerrah, and when she finally begged out to take a nap, he'd come to Liam to ask for a favour the next time he contacted Yelara. Keeve had sequestered himself in one of the bunks, and he hadn't seen Maeren since they'd departed. Lerrah had left her droid in charge of watching the ship, and Liam didn't figure it needed checking up on.

So finally, he settled himself down in front of the comm station and requested a connection to the royal palace on Tae'Karada. Liam waited some time for Yelara to respond to the unit routed directly to her chambers. Before Liam could become too concerned, Yelara's face appeared and she exhaled deeply. "Sorry...had trouble convincing Meer'esh to leave." Her face was ashen and brow speckled with perspiration. When she smiled, a weariness exposed itself and she did nothing to hide it. "You're well?" she asked, relieved that he appeared unharmed. "When will you be returning?"

The concern was clear in Liam's eyes as he answered. "We broke orbit from Coruscant two hours ago, and entered hyperspace an hour ago. So, we should be back in Tae'Remok within the next eighteen hours. I'll come straight to the palace upon my return. Things went well, and we had no serious difficulties. I think I may have received a couple holes in my cloak, but no damage done to myself. How are you feeling?"

"Tired," she sighed. "A lot's been going on.... I've missed you, Liam. Leshie's missed you. I just want you home."

"I'll be there soon," Liam answered. "I wish I could make this ship go faster, or just teleport my body straight to you. I'll be there soon though, and then we can make up for the lost time."

"Yes," she whispered, nodding vigorously. "I just...gods, Liam, I really need to get away from here for a while. I'm a prisoner here...." Yelara paused with face in both hands to regain her composure, and when they'd dropped away tears glistened in her eyes. "I hate this place, Liam," she said fiercely. "Gods I hate this whole planet. You don't know how many times I've considered paying someone handsomely to smuggle out of this damned place."

"When I return, we'll go," he said. "We'll have Oot watch over things, and just go for awhile, for as long as we need." His heart ached as he longed to reach out to her, to enfold her in his arms and make everything right. "Whatever you need, we'll do."

"Okay." Mustering a cheerful smile, Yelara said, "Are you having fun at least? Anyone organize a game of sabacc?"

Liam chuckled. "No sabacc, but it is interesting watching the interaction between everyone. Keeve, a young man who happens to be a friend of Oot's apparently, seems to have some sort of magnetism that is drawing all of the women on the ship to him, including our pilot who is a professed lesbian. However, the woman he'll be marrying is back on Tae'Karda, so now he's hiding in his room. Dargus has been apologizing to Lerrah, the pilot, almost constantly because of something he'd done to her in the past. It's quite a group. Still, as nice as they are and everything, each minute here reminds me just how badly I want to get back to you."

She chuckled. "Sounds like you're having an interesting time. Though, Dargus is behaving? Are you sure?"

Liam nodded. "Yes," he said. "He's behaving almost too well. I think as nice as he's being, everyone will be happy to see--"

"Is that her," asked a familiar voice in the background. "Are you speaking with her? Have you asked...if I might...?"

"Just a moment, Dargus," Liam said and rolled his eyes for Yelara to see. "He's been asking to speak with you. I do not know if it's something...if you would want to."

Yelara stiffened and her lips pressed together tightly. "Me? What does he need to say to me?"

"Given the recent trend," Liam said only loud enough for her to hear, "probably to apologize."

"For what?" she asked sardonically. "For abducting me? For raping and beating me? Or is it for the part where he murdered me?"

"I can tell him you don't wish to speak with him," Liam said. "If you'd prefer."

Yelara sighed, incapable of being truly cruel, though it was more curiousity than benevolence that made her decision for her. Was he truly changed, or had he merely become more proficient at deception? If anyone could see through his lies, Yelara believed herself to be that person. So, she nodded decisively. "For a short while. Only a while."

Liam nodded. "I love you," he said softly. "I'll talk to you again before the connection ends."

She murmured affirmatively, and smiled wanly as Liam left the screen. It was tempting to look away when Dargus took his place, unsure if her stomach would turn at the sight of him. But when he appeared, Yelara was more focused on studying his features closely for any sign of treachery. She was silent, giving him no greeting.

Dargus took several moments to settle himself before the comm before finally focusing on Yelara's image staring back at him. "Yelara," he finally managed. "I don't expect your forgiveness. After what I did to you, everything I did, I can't even forgive myself. For the length of my life, I had always just taken what I wanted, did what I wanted, and lived to whatever vices I could dream of. I never thought of anyone else, only myself. I was wrong, I was evil, and I am ashamed of every part of my past. I'm not asking for your forgiveness, but I just wanted you to know. I know there is nothing I could ever do that would make amends for what I did to you, what I put you and Liam through, but if there is anything in my power, you need only ask."

Yelara had her chin raised imperiously, nothing Dargus had said seeming to penetrate her stubborn exterior. But she did speak, after a time, albeit somewhat rigidly. "All I have to ask," Yelara began slowly, "is how it happened - why did you decide to change, Dargus? It certainly wasn't because you were guilty for all you've done - you've had plenty of opportunities in the past to regret the horrible things you did. Why was this time different?"

"I started having dreams," Dargus said. "It was your eyes, accusing. I couldn't sleep, I fell apart. Your eyes, they'd bore into me, tear me apart. I couldn't...I couldn't do anything. I saw myself for what I was through your eyes, and...and I knew I had to change. So...so I helped this young woman to escape from her captors, to get back to her husband. It didn't go well, but it was the start."

"I...I don't know what to think," Yelara admitted, shaking her head. "You could be lying...which would mean you have some ulterior motive. Do you plan on killing Liam finally?"

"I would prefer to never kill another living being," Dargus answered. "And, that includes Liam. I know he doesn't trust me, and I can't blame him, but I have no intention of trying to kill him. Though, I have a feeling if I try to get Lerrah to realize I'm not the same person any longer, Liam may try to kill me."

"With good reason," Yelara added without a hint of humour in her voice or manner. "You have many crimes to answer for. How do you plan on doing that?"

"For now, I am trying to help those I've hurt in the past," he said. "By working with the Jedi, I am able to do some good. If you would prefer another means of answering for my crimes, I will turn myself over to you upon my return to Tae'Karada."

Yelara sighed, her obstinacy deflating with her exhale. "No," she relented, "that won't be necessary. I can hardly punish you for your crimes. Liam was no better than you were...but I've managed to overlook all he's done. He says he believes you've changed. I tend to trust my husband's judgement. It's just very hard to forget all you've done, Dargus. You made me suffer horribly for so long."

"What I put you through was unspeakable," he said. "And, I know there isn't a way for me to ever make amends for that. I do promise to keep my distance from you, and allow you to live your life without my presence. I have left you with enough horrible memories, I don't think my presence will ever make you comfortable, and I do not wish to put you through that again."

Yelara smiled admonishingly. "Don't be so pitiable, Dargus Kandran, or I might believe you truly are performing a charade. I...think, if Liam is amenable, we can perhaps arrange a meeting when you return. I'm sure I can determine for a certainty whether your transformation is genuine once I look directly into your eyes."

Dargus gave her a smile that was unlike any she had ever received from him. It was reflected in his eyes, and carried none of its past hunger. "I look forward to that," he said.

Yelara tipped her head at him, her own smile expanding in the face of Dargus'. Finally, she laughed softly. "I would never have thought it, but I do detect mirth in that smile of yours, Dargus Kandran. I think that requires closer examination."

Dargus laughed. "I almost scared myself when I heard a genuine laugh slip from my mouth one day," he said. "It's very nice to smile for other reasons than a sinister motive."

"There is no other reason to smile but to express contentment," Yelara informed him sagely. "I'll see you soon enough, Dargus Kandran. Though, one favour?"

"Of course," Dargus said with a nod.

"Protect Liam for me," she asked softly. "He'll insist he doesn't need to be watched over...but once in a while, remind him that he has a wife and child to return to. That should knock some sense into him if he thinks about doing anything foolish."

"As you command, your highness," he said with a teasing grin as he gave her as formal a bow as he could from his sitting position. "I'll watch his back and make sure he gets home safe and sound to you."

Yelara returned his bow, her imperiousness now exaggerated. "Thank you. Now...play nicely, will you?"

"Of course," Dargus said with a grin. "Let me go get Liam for you again."

He was gone for a moment, and then suddenly Liam was seating himself in front of the comm station again. "How did it go? It seemed to go alright from Dargus' expression that I could talk with you again."

"It went fine," she assured him. "I'm not positive about him yet...but I think you can trust him, Liam."

"Bad feelings about him disappearing," Liam asked. "As strange as it may sound, if this is all truly him, then Dargus Kandran is actually going to be a very effective Jedi Knight."

"Good. That means he can guard you effectively." Yelara gave Liam a facetious smile.

Liam laughed. "Well, there shouldn't be a need for it for the rest of the trip home," he said. "And, once I do get home, I plan to be spending my time with you and Leshie."

She smiled and unconsciously reached out to brush her fingers against the screen, though the touch of Liam's flesh was absent. "Don't be too long. I might forget you."

"As soon as we close the connection, I'll go tell Lerrah to speed things up to get me home sooner," Liam said. "I love you, Yelara, and I will see you soon. Give my love to Leshie."

"I do," she promised. "Every day I do. I'll see you soon," she whispered, "my dear kestrel."

"I'll be in your arms again soon, my love," he said. Cutting the connection was the hardest thing he'd done in a very long time, but Liam finally managed to do it. He'd contact her again once they reached Tae'Karada's system. He just hoped he could wait that long.

---

"One In a Million"
By: Rylaa Lyssander - NPC+
Lani Vissip - NPC+
Lorgal - NPC+

Location: Ares Macrotechnology HQ, New Plouton
Date: Selene 19, 5ABY

***

The days had been flowing by slowly since the meeting at the Jedi Temple. Every day it seemed to be the same routine. Rylaa would walk into his office to see a mountain of paperwork and he would spend the day moving that mound slowly from one tray to another. He could have sworn this was the reason he became a criminal, so he wouldn't have to have a real job. But such was his life and besides, he was still making tons of credits. The chubby man sighed and ran his finger through his greasy long hair.

The door at the far end of the office opened and Lorgal came striding through with a smile on his face. Or... he could just be showing his rows of needle-sharp teeth, or he could just be hungry. With a barabel it was awful hard to tell. In his rush he had almost knocked over several priceless pieces of art with his tail. "Bosss," he hissed. His speech pattern was enough to get Rylaa's immediate attention. Lorgal was one of the better speakers of Basic, better than some humans he knew, and he only hissed when excited. "Something just came down from our people up on Drogen and I thought you might like to look at it." Clutched delicately between two claws was a piece of wafer thin flimsi.

Rylaa took the flimsi without a word and looked over the coding. It appeared to be a copy of the paperwork a ship-owner was required to fill out prior to landing at the shipyards. He was perplexed, why would Lorgal be so interested in this ship? Then two words caught his eye: Drer Rda. Every muscle clenched and his breath came hot and fast.

The name painted a picture in his mind. The gaunt, almost skeletal, purple skinned Twi'lek look much like a walking tumor. Where most Twi'leks had an exotic sex appeal to them Drer simply made your stomach churn. But his looks weren't the reason the repressed hate was boiling through Rylaa's veins. Eleven, almost twelve, years ago, Rylaa was running a minor criminal empire on the Core World of Coruscant. Everything was running smoothly under his rule with the aid of his lieutenants, whom he called his "Board Members". Drer had been a member of that board, and one of the first to try and kill him when the bothan, Dirge, had staged his coupe. While on the run Rylaa had sworn his vengeance, like many men would, but this was his first chance to follow that vow. It was a one in a million chance that had brought to Twi'lek to this out of the way Rim world.

But to kill him now? No, that wouldn't do. Sure he could take swift retribution and simply order one of his people to open the Twi'lek's veins while he slept, or he could even order Lorgal up there to make a direct assault on the ship. But if he tailed Drer, perhaps he could find some of the other members who had betrayed him. Yes, that was a better plan, the plan of a thinking and rational man, not one overcome by hatred and anger.

Lorgal looked worried at the many changes of emotion that had played of Rylaa's face in the couple minutes since he handed him the flimsi. Anger and rage and boiled away leaving a cool, calculating grin that could only be called diabolic. "Lorgal," the barabel almost jumped at the sound of his own name, "tell our people on the shipyards that I'm going to send somebody up there to keep an eye on this Twi'lek. Then I want to make a call over to Morgal and have him start looking for a man that goes by the moniker "Desert Shadow". I know he was last seen near Thanatos. He's a freelance assassin but that's not what I want him for... yet. Pay him whatever he wants but get him aboard Drer's ship with one of our subspace crypto units and a tracer. He's to remain onboard and integrate himself with Drer, he's also to make regular reports on who the Twi'lek contacts and match them to a list of names I'm going to provide. I've been told he has a strange sense of honor so I'm sure once we hire him for this contract he'll be willing to go along with it."

Lorgal had broken out a datapad in order to record the long list of instructions. "Sure thing, boss, I'll get right on it." As he left, Rylaa leaned back in his chair, the pile of paperwork still left over momentarily forgotten. Everything was falling in to place. Once his past was cleaned up, he could focus more readily on the future.

---

"Tangled Web, Part 3"
By: Meer'eesh
Ron'amon

Location: The Event Horizon - Yandrosa, New Plouton
Date: Selene 19, 5 ABY

***

He was restive and anxious, leg jouncing ceaselessly as he sat and waited. His visits to Ron'amon's seedy establishment were always dreaded, and not only because of the degenerate, brutish patrons watching him with openly hostile gazes. But on that occasion, Meer'esh was unconcerned by their malicious intentions; Ron'amon would hear of his trouble controlling Yelara and no doubt his future, and Yelara's, would be in jeopardy if he could not make assurances to the woman that his task would not fail. With the Jedi bastard gone for the time being, Meer'esh had a better chance of regaining Yelara's affections and her confidence.

She'd snubbed him during the day's council meeting, ignoring his suggestions and recommendations, and finally informing him that he was there as a silent observer, not a contributor. He doubted his presence would be abided in that room again. If Ron'amon discovered that from her eyes and ears within the palace before he had an opportunity to admit it himself, his death was an absolute. His overlords held no tolerance for dissemblance. On the tail-end of those thoughts Meer'esh's associate appeared. He ceased fidgeting and sat up straight, making a good show of convincing his contact nothing was amiss. He bowed his head at her approach.

Ron'amon waved the man down without so much as a return nod. She tired of his apparent lack of progress, and after dealing with the Bothan minister from the New Republic she was in no mood. Much work was in progress, much still needed to be done.

For a long moment she stared at him with silence before finally speaking.

"Well? What have you to say for yourself?" she asked, knowing that all had yet to be in place. She had her eyes and ears, but Meer'esh was the only one close enough to the High Princess to know what was said and done behind such closed doors.

"I have...nothing much to be reporting," he began hesitantly. "Things are having progress, but not as quickly as is being expected. Our employers should not be worrying, though."

"Nothing much," she threw back at him with a sneer. "Our employers are not satisfied with the progress of this matter, Meer'esh. Should I go to them and report, 'You should not be worrying, things are having progress, but not as quickly as is being expected'!? No, I think not. They would have my head and then yours would roll next. What is the hold up?"

Meer'esh's lips pressed tautly and his jaw could be seen clenching hard. His reluctance was clear, and the why was becoming clearer the longer he delayed in answering. He could not protect her any longer, not unless he placed her in the midst of danger right now.

"She is being stubborn," Meer'esh admitted in a strained whisper. "It is the Jedi man. He is being filling her head with ideas. She would rather be listening to him than to me now. They are having a past," he insisted. "Once he is being eliminated, I can then be steering her in the right direction. We can still use her...I am knowing this."

She thought over his words for what must have seemed forever to the man. It didn't take Jedi to sense his emotion, and she couldn't blame him. In fact she relished in his anxiety.

"Yes these Jedi are a problem," she finally said. "And this Liam, who has her ear and has had...much more. It will be difficult to sway the High Princess to cut ties with her Jedi, but severed they must be. I've no doubt that certain key members of the Council will have less attachment to the Jedi, they will, in part, be the key in her turning away from the Jedi."

Meer'esh sat taller, gaining new confidence in where his ideas were leading. "There must be something to be changing Yelara's opinion of the Jedi - to be convincing her that ties with them are hurtful to her position. It will be taking much, however, for that to happen."

An insidious grin peeled away from the older woman's lips. "Oh yes, something. The time for all this is at an end, Meer'esh," she hissed. "No more bungling around, no more excuses. Yelara will see to our employers' desires...or else," she continued as she slid him a data card.

"You mustn't fail with this," she warned ominously as the man took hold of the card with a questioning look. "The Jedi fools have made a grave mistake, and it will be their downfall. You will leak this information to the media, anonymously. This will be the wedge that divides the government from their precious Jedi benefactors. Should the High Princess yet again avert away from our desires, you will inform her that she has no other choice. By the time the council convenes over the matter recorded on that card, Yelara will either cooperate, or she will lose much dear to her. Do you understand?"

"I do," he replied, though his voice caught in his throat. Swallowing hard to return his hearts into his chest after they'd leapt into his mouth, Meer'esh asked, "Am I allowed to be asking what is on this datacard?"

"Sometimes simplicity is the answer to complexity," she said. "You must learn to take advantage to gain the advantage, Meer'esh. The fools have harbored the wretched Empresses since their deposing. This datacard has footage showing the Jedi and at least one of the empresses out on a carefree night among the public. Their blatant arrogance and disregard for the safety and well being of their people will not sit well with our friends on the council. Especially with public outcry once you have leaked this to the media. The council will have no choice but to demand justice against the Jedi, for the people. Yelara will be made to choose the will of the people against the Jedi. She will fight it at first, that I am sure of. When you return to the palace, you will be met by one of my own. You will help him to ensure that no matter what she may think or say, in the end she will have no choice but our own. She will be broken."

"I...I am thinking she should not be hurt," Meer'esh stated timidly. "If she is seen with injuries, the representatives will be wondering things...they will be believing she has been coerced."

Ro'namon eyed the man suspiciously with winced eyes. "I am thinking your concern may lie where it should not," she replied curtly. "Her injury will be to her heart, nothing more...yet."

"If I am succeeding, perhaps we will not be injuring her further? Will our masters not be considering such a request?"

"Again your expressive concern for this woman troubles me, Meer'esh," Ro'namon growled. "There will be no if, you must succeed. Lest you and I not desire to live another day," she continued with much emphasis as she wondered if the quirky man was coming to be a weak link in their masters' plans. "I'll kill you here and now myself if you're not capable," she warned venomously as she tapped the underside of the table with a hold-out blaster. "It would be a merciful end compared to what would befall you should you fail for your ever clearer lack of allegiance."

Meer'esh's eyes darkened, but his voice remained level as he explained, "I am being a slave, Ro'namon - my allegiances were being decided for me when my mother had birthed me into thralldom. I am not being capable of betrayal...even if I wished it." He rose from his seat, declaring the end of their meeting. "This thing you want will be done. Do not be interfering, and it will be done right. I am handling the High Princess...that you can be telling our masters."

"Watch your tongue," she growled. "I will interfere as I am commanded by our masters, and as I see fit. Your lack of progress thus far puts us both precariously close to losing our lives you fool! I'll not lose mine to your bumbling and self pity," she continued with the blaster pulled out from under the table.

She wasn't much concerned as to what the patrons might see, though she was careful to keep her words low enough as to remain between her and Meer'eesh. The scum that frequented the dive were no strangers to such acts of hostility and hushed conversations.

"This is it," she emphasised with the blaster. "We mustn't fail. When it is all said and done we both get our just rewards. I guarantee if you fail you will not make it out of the Palace alive. Do as you are instructed, and as my agent within the Palace will have need of you. This so says our masters, they will hear of nothing else but success or our deaths."

"Then they will be having success," Meer'esh assured her acridly, "but not because they are deserving it." He rose abruptly, ignoring her weapon, but conscious and leery of its presence. "I am doing this," he continued, "because I am wanting my freedom...and this is how I must be getting it. That must be enough assurance for our masters."

Were it not for her own personal plight, not so much unlike that of Meer'esh's, she would have felt pity for the man. Perhaps in another lifetime, she thought of the woman she once was and of the life she knew she could never get back. She was indentured to servitude, and all she cared for was her own well being. The thought of eliminating the man after his deeds were done, if she really could, crossed her mind. If only out of loathing. But just as her own life had long not been her own to command, unless she got the expressed order to do so, she could not harm him. His life belonged to that of her masters, just as was her own.

"Let us hope so," she replied without looking at him again. She knew if they failed they would be dead. There just wasn't anywhere in the forsaken galaxy she coul