"Systems Check"
By: Jae Dyn Brael

Location: Drogen Shipyards
Date: Eos 21, 3 ABY

***

Jae Dyn crouched atop the small fighter examining the hyperdrive. She shook her head and dropped the spanner back into the box resting on the side of the open hatch. She'd see one, maybe two more jumps before it needed a complete overhaul. At least she didn't have anywhere pressing to be. Though, the Imperial Destroyer out there made her even more cautious.

She closed the hatch and climbed over to the cockpit of her fighter. It had served her well since she'd left the only real home she could remember. It had all been so long ago. So many years, so many planets.

She ran a check over the systems and frowned at the results. It could be worse, she mused. At least it will still move.

Dargus' hospitality had been welcome, but not. She felt conflicted over her current situation. She dared not get too close to the man. She could feel the pull of the light side on him, but she could also feel his stark refusal of it. He was a dark man with a healthy appetite for whatever he wanted. She wondered if even he knew what he wanted. He probably decided his needs based on how much he'd hurt another. And, she was accepting the roof he offered. Really all she had to do was turn away from his darkness.

It was not easy.

She glanced around at all the other ships on the flight deck. He had quite the fleet. Of course he did. He had whatever he wanted. He took without thought of those he hurt, as long as his own selfish needs were met.

The berth her fighter occupied was small, but so was the fighter. She had the pieces and parts she needed to repair. She needed to take care not to become too indebted to Dargus Kandran. He seemed the type to collect on all debts.

"You okay up there?" a voice called from below.

She glanced over the edge of her small starfighter and nodded. "Everything is fine," she responded. "I was just running a system's check."

He nodded. "Okay. If you need any help..."

"I am fine for now. I'll let you know if I require assistance."

With that, he was gone, disappearing in between a pair of freighters in the flight berths across the aisle. Jae Dyn shook her head and shut down the systems she'd been running.

She climbed out of the cockpit and secured the hatch. She dropped to the ground below and did a walkaround to make sure everything was closed up and safe. It was. She couldn't bring her to trust Dargus' men. She could feel them watching her wherever she went. It left her feeling cold. She adjusted her vest and checked the blaster at her hip.

It was time for some training. She left the berth and strolled toward the exit with a swagger she'd seen around so many starship pilots.

---

"Free Spirits"
By: Yelara Neerou - Shipyard Mechanic
Jae Dyn Brael - Jedi Knight

Location: Drogen Shipyards
Date: Eos 21, 3 ABY

***

Yelara strolled down the corridor, adjusting her short hair slightly. She gently rubbed her cheek and winced as she touched a particularly tender spot. Her face was sore from last night and a scab had formed on her lip from where Dargus had split it open. She reminded herself to avoid his backhand whenever possible.

Yelara was placing her cut-off, leather gloves on her hands as she rounded the corner. She really had a bad habit of not watching where she was going; that's what got her into this mess with Dargus in the first place. She looked down to place the second glove on her hand when she was knocked off balance by someone in the corridor. The glove slipped from her hand and she looked up to see a woman standing in front of her.

Yelara chuckled as she realized she was practically staring at a mirror image of herself. The woman was clad in leather, like herself, and was tall and lithe. She couldn't help thinking that Dargus would have found this woman instantly to his liking, but she wasn't about to start matchmaking for him.

"Sorry about that," Yelara said to the woman. "I'm new around here so I guess I'm not used to all the twists and turns in these corridors."

Jae Dyn smiled. "That's alright," she said. "I haven't figured them all out myself. I'm Jae Dyn. I saw you on the flight deck earlier, didn't I?"

"I've got a small fighter in berth forty-one," Jae Dyn said. "I actually just moved it in there a short while ago. I used to have it docked down near Thanatos. At least, here I know some Rodian thug isn't going to try to make off with a laser cannon or a drive motivator." She grinned.

"Yeah, I think I might have seen your ship there. I'm better recognizing ships than I am people," Yelara said with a smile. "I just finished my shift and went back to my room to clean off. I thought being a foreman, I wouldn't get as dirty as when I was repairing ships, but I think I get dirtier now just taking inventory." Yelara laughed and looked at the woman. She seemed pleasant enough and looked like she could certainly take care of herself if it came down to it. "Oh, I'm sorry," Yelara said suddenly. "I'm Yelara Neerou. Mid-shift foreman," she said, trying not to sound cocky.

"Very nice to meet you," Jae Dyn said. "I don't really have a job around here, though Dargus would like it to be protecting him if I had one. For the time being, I'm just here."

"Oh, you know Dargus." Yelara was momentarily distracted. She knew the woman was his type. "Your ship's in for repairs?"

Jae Dyn nodded. "Of a sort. She'll fly, but I don't want to take her far without having a thorough maintenance."

"Well, take your time and if my boys give you a hard time on the flight deck, just give me a holler and I'll put them in their place," Yelara said. She was exaggerating a bit there. Blood still wasn't good between her and the workers, but she just stayed out of their way, even though they still snickered at her when her back was turned.

"I may do that," Jae Dyn answered. "Though, I'm usually pretty good at taking care of myself. You want to go get something to drink? I have a thirst like you wouldn't believe?"

Yelara smiled. Since she'd arrived, she'd only had Dargus for companionship...if she could call that companionship at all. She'd always had trouble talking to people, after all, she spent most of her time with ships and never really developed a knack for conversations. Yelara nodded her head and gave a sigh. "A drink would definitely do the trick."

It took longer than either woman expected, but eventually they found their way into the bar. Jae Dyn raised her eyes in surprise as she looked at the size of it. There were a good number of men in the place, and the only women appeared to be scantily clad and serving drinks to the men. Both women could feel the eyes of the place on them as they moved to a table.

As they sat, Jae Dyn made sure to get a good look at her companion's split lip. She allowed her focus to shift briefly. The life essence of Yelara Neerou pulsed brightly in the room. Her face, however, showed signs of injury beyond the scabbed lip. Once they were settled, she spoke: "What happened to your face? It looks like a fight."

Yelara lowered her head, trying to hide her face. "No, not a fight...per se." Yelara felt ashamed. She'd always stood up for herself and didn't let anyone walk all over her. But Dargus was different. He was dangerous and she knew that, but also, she needed him. She needed all that he could give her, and if it meant she had to take a beating or two to get it, then she would. "Well, you say you know Dargus, so I guess you know what kinda temper he has." Yelara chuckled and shook her head. "I didn't even see it coming..." she said as her voice trailed off.

Jae Dyn's eyes narrowed. "I knew Dargus had a temper, but I didn't think he would actually hit a woman." His darkness expanded by the hour. "I did not think my opinion of him could sink lower than it already was."

"It's no big deal, really. I can take it. I must say, he does have a lot of patience. You should see the grief I give him," she said with a satisfied grin. "How long you known him?"

"Not long," Jae Dyn replied. "We met by accident actually. Two of his thugs were accosting a Twi'lek, nearly ripping the man in two. I stepped in to even the odds a little. The Wookies were tougher than I'd anticipated," -- Best to not let on that I let them take me, she thought -- "and I ended up here. Dargus and I came to a mutual understanding in his bed, and he offered me an apartment. I am still wondering if the path I have chosen is the wisest. I can take care of myself, but I do not know how long I will be able to idly sit by with some of the operations Dargus runs. If he hits you again, let me know. Your face is too pretty to be battered. And, if he's going to dish it out, he needs to learn to take it."

Yelara looked curiously at Jae. She couldn't figure out why the woman cared so much about what happened to her. "Yeah thanks for the offer, but I think Dargus would be more miffed if he found out I was blabbing about him to others. I can't believe you were actually able to negotiate with him!" Yelara took a long swig of her drink and wiped her mouth, wincing as she ran her hand over her cut. "So, you're stranded here too."

Jae Dyn nodded. "After a fashion," she said. "I have a feeling I could leave if I wanted, though there may be repercussions." Jae Dyn frowned at the obvious pain the cut caused Yelara, but stopped herself before doing anything foolish. As much as she wished to help, she could not risk discovery.

"These operations you mentioned. What is Dargus into anyway? He doesn't really like to talk when we're together. He is always more interested in...other things," Yelara said, knowing she didn't have to go into detail with Jae.

"I found that when I was with him, he said little as well. Though, when I wish to be, I can be persuasive. And, I ran into him outside of his bedroom. From what I've been able to gather, in the little time I've had, he's into a little bit of everything. And, most of it quite nefarious."

Yelara let out a laugh. "You and I have much in common. That's exactly how I met him! I should really pay attention to where I'm going, from now on. So, are you a smuggler?"

Jae Dyn smiled. "Not exactly," she said. "Though, I have thought of wearing that hat for a time. Unfortunately, my ship is only a starfighter, and not entirely suited to the transport of illicit goods. I have considered the change though."

"See, the only reason I came to the shipyards in the first place was to try and find some way into the rebellion." The minute Yelara mentioned the word rebellion, Jae Dyn's expression changed. "What? What did I say?"

"This may not be the best place to find a way into the rebellion," she said. "I know Dargus' loyalties are to himself. He holds no love for the empire, and about as much for the rebellion as far as I can tell. His only loyalty is to the credit." She cast a glance around the room and lowered her voice. "Those who work for him are more nebulous in their allegiances. They would as soon sell you out to the empire for the reward. And, you are right, we do have much in common." She gave Yelara an enigmatic smile. "It may be best to leave this conversation for somewhere with fewer ears."

Yelara looked around. Knowing Dargus, he probably had the whole placed bugged. She looked back at Jae and nodded her head. "Good idea. I guess I'm a little...green. I've only been on my own for two years, so I guess I'm still a little too naive about certain things."

Jae Dyn smiled. "I've been out for longer than that, but I still feel naive about quite a bit most of the time."

Yelara took one last swig of her drink and remembered not to wipe her mouth this time. "Know any quiet places to talk?" Yelara felt completely at ease with Jae. She felt herself just wanting to spill her whole life story to her. She was completely uninhibited around Jae, which was a good change from her usual suspicious self.

"I don't wanna go back to my room. It just feels so...cold and empty. Dargus' gift to me." Yelara rolled her eyes. She would have been happy just sleeping on the flight deck with all the ships. Unlike Dargus, the ships never asked for anything in return. They just let her bask in their beauty and were happy with just being in her company.

"My room isn't the most comfortable place, but I imagine with company it will be more welcoming. If you'd like we can go there to talk. And, it's clear of listening devices, so we'll have privacy. Shall we?"

Yelara smiled. "Yeah, that sounds great. I get a creepy feeling whenever I'm in my room. Somehow it reminds me of Dargus. Sends chills down my spine."

Jae Dyn smiled. "I know what you mean," she said. "I feel it myself."

Yelara reached into her pocket for her credit slip and began to walk to the bar. "Don't worry. I got it this time. Dargus has been very generous." She handed the bartender the cred slip, he took it, paid for the drinks, then gave it back. Yelara walked back to Jae and smiled. "Don't get me wrong, Jae. I refused, I did. I hate taking money from him, but...he doesn't take rejection well." Yelara didn't want Jae to think she was completely dependent on Dargus or his money. It made her feel like a prostitute.

"No," she said with a smile, "he doesn't. Though, it was very nice of Dargus to buy us a drink."

They worked their way to Jae Dyn's apartment. The inside was sparsely decorated, but held the warmth of habitation. As with most things owned by Dargus, the apartment was large and well furnished. Jae Dyn led the way inside and down to the sunken living room. She unbuckled her blaster belt and dropped it on the table.

"Would you care for another drink?"

Yelara had to admit, she could never hold her liquor, but she was in the mood to escape herself and her troubles so she smiled and nodded her head.

Jae Dyn moved to a small bar to the side of the room and began preparing the drinks. To the keen observer, it was obvious the bar had not been used before. She returned to the couch and took a seat, handing Yelara her drink.

"Thanks." Yelara took a sip and swallowed. "Jae, where do your loyalties lie? I mean, I don't mind if you are all for the empire, but do you think the rebels are right to do what they're doing?"

Jae Dyn smiled. "I think the rebels are right in what they are doing. The Emperor's tyranny is hurting good people. And, I've lost friends and loved ones." Her thoughts went to Tal Dan. She took a breath to settle her emotions. She sought the calm he had taught her to find so long ago. The pain of loss was still raw after five years. She looked up at Yelara and met her gaze. "I firmly support the rebellion."

"Dargus has told me that he doesn't choose sides, he just goes for whoever can give him the biggest amount of creds in the shortest amount of time. But when the real fighting starts, and you're stuck in the middle like he is, how is either side supposed to know whether you're friend or foe? He'll just end up getting screwed over by both sides, I say." Yelara tried to force back a grin. The thought of Dargus dead brought a sense of warmth to her. "I'm all for the rebellion. I think the rebels are doing something that is long over due. Their fight is so...noble."

Jae Dyn nodded. "It is," she said. "I wish I could do more for it, though. I do in small ways, behind the scenes. When I can. I want to join, but I think--" She watched Yelara for a moment, wondering how much she could trust her. After a brief moment of silent reflection, she decided she could trust Yelara completely. They were on the same side. "I would probably only bring trouble."

"I don't understand. Any help you could bring would be welcome. The rebels would certainly take any help that was offered, I'm sure. I came here to join the front, but so far, I haven't had much luck." Yelara looked at Jae Dyn, and saw the pain in her eyes. She placed her hand upon the woman's, trying to give some comfort. "And believe me, I understand your loss." Yelara's mind instantly went back to her parents. Even to this day, she could still vividly hear the sound of the blasters firing at them, then their ensuing cries of pain. Sometimes, it was the only thing on her mind.

Jae Dyn nodded. "I guess the Emperor rended the lives of many," she said.

"My parents were murdered by Imperial soldiers. They were good people. Their deaths are what has brought me all the way from Corellia to this...place. It saddens me, yes, but it's made me stronger, I believe."

"It is good to gain strength from adversity and pain," she said. "I am sorry for your loss as well. Perhaps together we can return upon the Emperor the pain he has caused us."

Yelara looked down and took a deep breath. "Jae Dyn? Is Dargus...if he found out I was working, under his nose, to help the rebellion, or you for that matter, would he kill us? Literally?" Yelara had an idea what the answer would be. Dargus demanded loyalty and obedience at every moment, and if he didn't get what he wanted, he could be a very dangerous man.

"If our deaths served some benefit to him, I imagine," she said. "I would guess that our loyalty to the rebellion would not be a problem. If we acted against any of his operations, then he would. And, he may kill us. Though, being women, I would think he would mean to enslave us." Jae Dyn looked out over the room and sighed. The answer to her silent question, dare I reveal the secret I carry, came unbidden. "Dargus would find me very difficult to kill, I figure. As long as I am wary, or course. There is something about me I want you to know. But you must never speak of it to others for the safety of my life."

Yelara looked at Jae Dyn seriously and nodded her head. "I won't speak a word of it, no matter what."

"I am a Jedi Knight," she said carefully. "One of the last of my order. I have been moving from world to world along the rim to avoid detection by the Emperor or any of his agents."

"But I thought there were none left? Is that why you are so hesitant about joining the fight? You fear you may be detected?" Yelara knew of the Jedi and the Emperor's plot to commit mass genocide on them.

Jae Dyn nodded. "Though, the fear of drawing the Emperor to me, and then hurting those around me is a greater fear. I would not wish to bring that on another."

"Does Dargus know about this...I mean, about you being a Jedi? He can protect you if you need it. After all, he would do anything to protect his possessions."

Jae Dyn nodded again. "He knows," she said. "He is no Jedi, but the Force is strong in him. I can feel it when I am near him, though the taint of the dark side is also upon him."

"I won't tell a soul, Jae Dyn. I wouldn't want to see anything happen to the only person around here who seems to understand me. After all, we are alike, you and I. We're both free spirits. Dargus knows that and that's probably why he enjoys our company so much." Yelara turned grim now. "But there's one thing he doesn't understand about us. Being free spirits means we can't bear to be tied down. We yearn to stretch our wings and fly, and the longer he keeps us here and the tighter his grip becomes on us, the more the fire within us begins to burn out, until one day, it goes out completely and we're nothing more than a shell of our former selves." Yelara looked at Jae Dyn pleadingly. "Promise me you won't let that happen to you."

"I will promise if you do the same," Jae Dyn said. "You are the first person I have known in a long time who I feel I can call a friend. I do not wish to lose you to Dargus' desires or cruelty." She paused for a long moment. "I know you are uncomfortable in your own room. If you would like to stay here tonight, that is fine with me. I could use the company of someone who does not leer at me."

Yelara couldn't help but smile. She had never had a friend before in her life and didn't quite know how to react. "I would be honoured to call you a friend, Jae Dyn," Yelara said genuinely. She felt a little awkward so she began looking around the room and chuckled. "You know, I think your quarters are bigger than mine!"

Jae Dyn looked around. "I've been feeling they're too big for just me," she said. "I'm not used to such wealth. I've managed to scratch out a meager existence over the last couple years. This apartment is bigger than all the other places I've stayed put together." She turned back to watch Yelara for a moment.

"I'd love to stay the night. Thanks. One thing though," Yelara added with a grin. "How do you think Dargus would react if he found out his 'girls' were getting so chummy?"

"We're not his girls," Jae Dyn said with a smile. "Free spirits who won't be tied down, right? We will keep our wings outstretched together, and Dargus Kandran will never cage us. Though, once he finds out we have become friends, how long, I wonder, until we are ordered to his bed together?"

---