"Grapevine - Part 1"

by: Syan Daywalker – Bounty Hunter (Kurt)
and Karia – Hunter’s Assistant [NPC+]

Location: Just Outside Tae’Remok System
Date: Selene 21, 5 ABY

***

“Is he here yet?”

Sitting in Aesir’s cockpit, bounty hunter Syan Daywalker turned in his chair and looked back over his shoulder at the speaker.

Hands on hips, Karia looked at him expectantly, “Well?”

Instead of answering her, Syan looked to Eighteen, the protocol/pilot droid sitting in the co-pilot’s seat beside him. “Time?” he asked.

“Five minutes, thirty-three seconds, Master Syan. You win.”

“What did you win? Someone tell me.” Karia asked, eyes narrowed.

The hunter wouldn’t have answered, but programmed with a startling lack of understanding of rhetorical questions, Eighteen answered helpfully, “Master Syan wagered against me that you would return to the cockpit to inquire as to our expected visitor’s arrival in less than seven standard milicycles.I wagered that, given the average of your last four visits, it would be greater than nine standard milicycles.”

Servomotors in her neck joint whirring, Eighteen faced her master again. “I am afraid I do not have the liquid assets with which to pay the wager, sir.”

“If that’s your way of complaining that I don’t pay you, don’t waste your breath,” Syan replied.

“But sir, I don’t-”

The large man hissed the droid to silence and sat up. The golden-skinned Ferrerrio assistant came up behind him, hand on his shoulder. “What is it?”

“Incoming,” Syan replied cryptically, hands skimming over the J-Type Nubian’s controls.

Humanoid eyes stared in to the pulsing readout, trying to decipher the data.

“Master Syan, Aesir reports that the thermoscale frequency of the incoming vessel’s engines match what you were told to expect. Shall I deactivate defensive systems?”

Syan stood up. “No. Leave them on.”

“But sir, we’ll be targeting our visitor as he comes alongside.”

“He’d be suspicious if we didn’t. Leave them on and stand by for my order.”

Squeezing in to the small turbolift with Karia, Syan pushed the button to descend to the ship’s main deck. Along the way he grabbed his katana from the corridor closet and jogged with his assistant and lover to the ship’s lone docking port.

Karia wore her twin blaster pistols on her hips and looked nervous, but prepared.

They stood in silence, mostly because there was nothing to say and it was Syan’s preference. He didn’t care for small talk.

They didn’t have to stand around long. The deck plating under their feet shuddered gently as the vessel beside them locked in to the docking port. Seals rotated and atmospheres equalized with a soft gasp of vapor that drifted down to the floor.

The interlocked doors irised open and a tall man stepped inside, scarred, old surplus Clonetrooper armor clanking heavily.

“I have what you need on this Cirran Tyris.”

---

"Unusual Bounties"
By: Drer Rda (NPC+)
Zarrak (PC)
Random NPCs

Location: Thanatos
Date: Selene 21, 5 ABY

***

After having acquired a safe haven in the desert city known as Thanatos, Drer purchased a recently vacated palace, that was hidden away in the rocky landscape. The filthy Aqualish he had bought the palace from more than happily accepted the Twi'lek's credits, claiming he would not be disappointed with his purchase. He wasn't. Nearly. Save for an apparent Beeja rat infestation. The rodents had just begun to eat away at the walls, and now Drer could sense he had another problem to deal with.

He watched as Agork, jabbed his spear at a fat Beeja rat that raced off with a chunk of meat in its maw. His spear clattered against the hole in the wall as the vermin escaped into a dark crevice in the wall. The Gamorrean snorted angrily as he scooped his spear before kicking at the hole with his foot. "Agork, make yourself useful to me and find us an exterminator will you." The Twi'lek tapped away at a small computer console not bothering to glance over his shoulder.

"Wait, on second thought search the area some more and see if we can find a new nest for Ntenta." Ntenta was the yearling and a half old Nexu that Drer had come to obtain recently after her previous owner had hoped to kill the creature, when the Nexu had attacked in self defense and tore open the Rodian owner's arm along with nearly half of his body. Sensing he could use the beast for good purpose, Drer paid the Rodian twice the needed credits he needed to pay for his medical bills in exchange for Ntenta. Since that time, Drer had found to taking in delight as the ever growing Nexu took to frightening untrustworthy associates sometimes tearing them open in the process.

His fingers halted as a most peculiar race appeared in the Bounty Hunter's Guild databank files. Dug. So there were now Dugs who had taken to bounty hunting? The Dug species were quite adept podracers, their small build and lithe feet allowing them to gracefully pilot the machines with skill and grace. But to take to bounty hunting? True their size would allow them an advantage of some kind, but it would also allow for a disadvantage as well, Drer was certain. However that was not to say they could be quite skilled in unarmed combat, their large hands packed an impressive wallop. Drer could recall when Idvat had gotten into a fight with a Dug once only to have his arm broken. Yes, this would warrant investigation.

"Idvat! Send out someone to find this Zarrak and have him come here at once, I would like very much to meet this Dug bounty hunter."

It had been several days since Zarrak last killed that CorSec officer, Kusna Coalb. He was staying low, spending his time either in Arcadia or the Jedi Temple.

Rumor had it that there were a few people looking for him. He didn't mind, if they wanted to kill him then he'd just blow them away. It was that simple.

It did not take Idvat long to locate the Dug bounty hunter. From what information he was able to gather from the Bounty Hunter's Guild, Zarrak favored a local cantina in Arcadia. A toothy grin spread across the large beefy Gran's face as he stepped inside the cantina immediately spotting the small Dug, nursing a drink thirstily at a table by himself, hands propped up on the table. "So, even Dugs can become bounty hunters now?" Idvat remarked as he stepped over to the Dug's table.

Zarrak glared at the Gran. How he really hated those creatures. "Yes, we can become bounty hunters. After all we're really good at violence. Now back off before I break your damn face."

The Gran laughed at Zarrak's reply. "You're the exact personification of a Dug, that you are." Idvat gestured to himself. "I have no nevermind with what happened between either of our ancestors in the past, so like you I suppose you could say I'm not your exact personification of a Gran." Idvat's tone turned serious. "Tell me, how would you like to make some real credits?"

"Well I am a bounty hunter after all." The Dug leaned back some more in his chair. "Credits always interest me. So tell me, what is this job for?"

"I'm not at liberty to say what the job is, only that you will learn that from my boss who wishes to meet you in person." The Gran gestured with his arm. "I can show you the way, unless you are afraid that a Gran like me might try and rob you of your credits."

"Oh I'm not worried about you," Zarrak growled. "Take me to your boss, Three Eyes."

"Follow me Spindly." The Gran turned and left the cantina with the Dug in tow, turning into an alleyway that housed a cloth covered object. Idvat tore off the cloth revealing it to be a modified speeder bike with a large seat designed for two riders, who apparently were to ride back to back, while one rider directed the bike the other manned the small gun turret in the rear.

"Don't touch anything," Idvat warned before he leapt onto the bike and waited for Zarrak to do the same. As soon the Dug got on, the Gran gunned the accelerator and raced off into the busy market streets, before veering off into the outskirts of the desert. After an hour or so's drive Idvat slowed the speeder to a halt as they approached a rocky area.

"We're here." Hopping off the bike Idvat walked towards a rusted terminal buried in rocks, and punched some buttons. "I've returned, open the locks." What sounded like droid gibberish was spoken back at him. The sounds of rock and metal shifting hit his ears as a smaller door with the large metal wall encased in rock opened revealing a small Jawa, his golden eyes gleaming brightly. "Come." The Gran stepped through the door as Zarrak followed.

Zarrak whistled as he saw the large door in front of him. Someone here must've had security on their mind. He followed him through the hall and it took his eyes a moment to be able to get used to the darkness. He followed the Gran, keeping his eyes on him at all times.

"Boss I've returned with the Bounty Hunter," Idvat remarked as he stepped inside the main hall standing before Drer. The main hall was sparsely decorated, several crates lay littered here and there, a pair of two small crates served as temporary chairs nearby the fainting couch. The Twi'lek lay on his fainting couch half asleep as a beautiful lavender skinned female Twi'lek knelt behind him massaging his shoulders. "Asal, you may go now," Drer remarked shifting so she could get up. "You must be Zarrak. I'm Drer Rda. Would you care for something to drink?"

Zarrak watched as the female Twi'lek got up. He smiled and chuckled as he said, "I've got to get me one of those. Lately my back and shoulders have been killing me." His face then grew serious. "Sure I'd a like drink. Now how about we cut straight to the chase. I'm not one for the pleasantries of conversation."

Drer smiled folding his hands. "I like bounty hunters who are all business, like you. Now I'll get right to the point as to why I had Idvat over there bring you to me." He remarked tipping his head in the direction of the Gran as the female Twi'lek returned with two glasses of T'ssolok one for Drer and one for Zarrak.

The dark skinned Twi'lek took a deep drink before beginning to speak. "I have lost something very valuable that belongs to me, that I would like to have returned to my possession. Have you ever heard of a race called the Veaseph?" He asked looking at the Dug intensely.

Zarrak shook his head after he drained the contents of his glass in one gulp. He watched the female Twi'lek as she walked away and licked his lips.

"I'm afraid I'm not familiar with this race," he replied.

"Suffice it to say, there is bad blood amongst the people of Veaseph I and II, and as of late some of them are starting to take to selling slaves; you see their females are considered very valuable for their unique spotted appearances...by chance of luck I was able to obtain a female of this species. Only up until now she has been stolen away from me while in the company of Agork over there." Drer glanced briefly in the Gamorrean's direction who stood leaning against his spear, and snorted in disgust.

"What's the matter there, big guy," Zarrak taunted. "You lost your wife? I tell you, Gamorreans. Can't seem to hold onto anything if you ask me."

Drer burst into laughter at the Dug's reply. "No, the Gamorrean was keeping watch over her for me, I hear tell he is a real charmer with the ladies, Gods only know how so, but," His tone turned serious then. "I'm looking for a humanoid, I did not get a look at this human but Agork did. He described the human as a giant even for one amongst his species, dark hair, bright eyes, and unkempt. I do however know that he possesses a YT-2000 freighter...probably uses it for smuggling."

The tiny bounty hunter nodded. "So I can assume you want the girl brought back to you alive. What about this human? You want me to kill him or do you want me to capture him and give him to you to kill?"

"Hmmm..." Drer traced the rim of his glass with his long skeletal fingers, mulling over the thought. Having the human captured and brought back here to be killed by his own hand sounded deliciously tempting, the mere thought of seeing the human die as he begged for his life before Drer filled the Twi'lek with a malicious anxiety. However, it would also draw more attention to himself then he wished for the moment, after all he had only just arrived to this planet and knew very little of it...however not tackling this problem head on, might give the local thugs the impression he was soft. Mulling over the thought more, he then looked back at the Dug and gave him his answer.

"Bring him to me, I will see to it that I make him suffer personally." The Twi'lek's hand clutched the glass tightly causing the glass to crack slightly. "I will pay you 10,000 credits. Half now as advanced payment and half later when you return with the girl and the humanoid."

"You got yourself a deal," Zarrak answered. He sat down his glass and leaned forward. He held out a massive hand for Drer to shake. "Consider them as good as yours."

---

"Impromptu Introductions, Part 1"
By: Zale Tregat
Kaysa Zenarr-Tregat
Moril Astren
Shaza Nightshade
Kimara
Aria Tregat [NPC+]

Location: Tae'Remok System;  Yesdol Spaceport - New Plouton, Tae'Karada
Date: Selene 21, 5 ABY

***

By the instruments he could glance at, Zale guessed that they were about halfway home. Shaza's ship was in no way luxurious, but it was comfortable enough. He returned along the passageway toward the room he shared with Kaysa. They had talked a little, but mostly sat together in silence. He hoped, however, that he'd made it clear enough to her he wasn't going to be abandoning her.

He entered the smallish cabin and smiled as Kaysa looked up at him from where she sat on the end of the bed.

"Shaza says everything is fine on the other ship according to Lerrah," he said as he moved to sit toward the head of the bed. "I still worry for Keeve though. Talara has taken quite a fancy to him."

"Poor boy," she replied flatly, her attempt at infusing sarcasm into her words failing. Staring at the back of her hands as they rested atop her thighs, Kaysa asked, "Has he forgiven Shiv yet, or is he beginning to seriously consider Talara's offers?"

"I think he wants to be free of everyone except Kimara," Zale said. "But, I don't know. I think he likes the attention, but doesn't want to be unfaithful to Kim."

Kaysa chuckled bitterly. "He must be glad I had no hand in raising him; fidelity would come a lot harder to him if I had."

"Considering who he's marrying, I'm surprised he hasn't found more than just Kim in his bed," Zale said. "And you really shouldn't be so hard on yourself, Kaysa. Sure we've had a rough time of things lately, but things haven't been easy. We've had a lot of things happen in our life that no normal person could survive. But, we're still here."

"Barely," she added nearly inaudibly. "If you're right, if I haven't screwed up so badly...then where's Merrick, Zale?" Raising her brown eyes, dark circles surrounding them, Kaysa asked again, "Where is he?"

"He's on Tae'Karada," Zale said with a sigh. There was pain in his words as he uttered them. "He's with Analesse now. He said he does need to speak with you when we return, but I don't think it will be a happy reunion."

"Then there's no point in saying anything, is there?" Her fingers twisted and tugged at the hem of the oversized shirt provided her, trying, with some difficulty, to bury her grief. "He moves fast, doesn't he?" she whispered. "But you didn't." Her laugh was wooden and hoarse as she told him, "Oh, Zale...I think you got the bad end of the deal if you ended up with me."

"Somewhere under your tears and grief is the woman I fell in love with, who married me to save me, and who loved to laugh," Zale said. "I love her more than life, and hope to spend many years more with her as we raise our baby girl together. Things haven't gone quite the way we'd planned, Kaysa, but we're still here and I still love you. What happened, happened, but I have no intention of leaving you. You are my wife, the woman I love, the mother of my daughter, and ray of sunshine in the gloom that surrounds Tae'Karada. May not seem like it now, but I know I got the better deal."

"Then that's why you came? To claim your prize?" Kaysa turned to face him, and experienced a heartbreaking guilt over the exhaustion etched into his features, wearing ragged his once fiery gaze and the rare, but captivating smiles he would have bestowed upon her if it would have been any other time, one where they were actually happy. Her eyes stung, but she didn't notice the tears until they warmed her cheeks. Still trembling and weak, Kaysa slid a thin, frail hand over Zale's and squeezed faintly. "He used me horribly," she told him thickly. "I won't forget, not ever."

Zale opened his hands to hers. "My wife was in trouble, and I had to get her out of that trouble. During the search, Keeve had to tell me to get sleep, because I wouldn't leave. Moril has been doing most of the managing of Antorial for the last four months. I had to find you though, to rescue you. I knew something wasn't right, that you wouldn't willingly go with that bastard. I had to find you...and get you away from him." He closed his eyes briefly and drew in a deep breath. "I should have checked the body, made sure he was dead." He opened his eyes and gazed at her. "Whatever you need to get through this, I'm here. If you want me."

"Why wouldn't I?" Her smile was sad, but a warmth managed to find a break in the grief and leak through. "I love you, Zale, and I never stopped. I was...out of my head for a while. I don't blame Aria...but after I gave birth, something snapped. It was like I was trapped, suffocating, and Cadwin gave me a way out. And I was an idiot for accepting."

"Cadwin was even more foolish for getting involved with a man like Vrax," Zale said. He leaned close and brushed her forehead with a kiss. "We'll figure out our path and we'll figure out how to be happy again. Together."

"You sure you're up for it?" Kaysa sighed softly as her fingers played lightly over Zale's cheek, remembering how wonderful his flesh was to touch. "You're so tired...I'm afraid for you. I don't want you to suffer anymore."

"I've got you back now," Zale said with a smile for her. "I don't have to worry or lose sleep anymore. We can get healthy again, and find our happiness."

Kaysa nodded. "Though, I may need a hearty meal first," she joked. "I don't think you'd like what you see if I were to take my clothes off. I was so close, Zale...I'd given up and I was ready to let go." Her smile returned, pushing free more tears. "Until I saw you up on that rooftop...I was already gone."

"I'm so sorry I wasn't there sooner," Zale said. "He was good at covering his tracks, but not good enough. I'm just thankful I did get there when I did. I don't know what I would have done, how I would have gone on, if I didn't get there when I did."

"Don't think about it," Kaysa murmured, her lips sweeping against his cheek as she spoke. "None of this was your fault, and even if you hadn't found us in time, it would never have been your failure. Please don't make me feel more guilty than I already do."

"Did you want to come out to the galley with me," Zale asked softly. "I can make us something to eat if you'd like."

Her response was immediate and unequivocal - a brisk shake of the head. "Not unless we're alone. I'm not ready to face anyone yet."

"I'll make sure the others don't come in," he said. "It's just Moril, Saris, and Shaza on the ship."

Kaysa took deep, slow breaths to control her heartbeat. Then, she finally nodded. "Only if you promise me something. Only then."

Zale nodded. "Okay," he said.

"I want to know all about Aria," she told him. "And images, too...if you have them."

He reached into his jacket and pulled out a holo-imager. At a touch to one of the buttons on its side, a holographic image of their daughter shimmered into view above the imager. She was on her belly, trying to turn over, a happy smile that seemed to light up the room. "There she is."

Kaysa gasped, her hands reflexively leaping to her mouth to stifle a sob. Failing to do so, once Kaysa's sniffling began, it soon evolved into a bout of uncontrollable weeping. "My gods," she breathed. "She's so beautiful...and so big!"

"She's five months old now," Zale said. "Six soon. The hardest thing leaving on this search was leaving her behind for...for Kim to watch over. I didn't think twice about leaving behind Antorial, but having to look into our little girl's big brown eyes, and then walk away... I left a piece of my heart back there, that's for sure." He smiled at Kaysa, a smile filled to bursting with the love he felt for her and the joy at the little life they made together. "But, for the chance to make our family whole again, to be able to hold you in my arms...I knew I had to leave her, just for a little while."

Kaysa sucked in a shuddering breath and exhaled a choked sob. "Gods...I can't even remember holding her. Why couldn't I stay with her, Zale? Why was I so afraid?"

"It's a very big commitment," Zale said. "And, it requires a bit of change in our lives. My guess...you probably didn't feel ready."

"But am I ready now? I don't want to screw up again. Please don't let me make another mistake like this one."

"I'll be with you," Zale said. "We'll do it together. We'll make it work this time, you and me, and our little girl."

Kaysa nodded tremulously, unconsciously leaning into Zale's embrace as he curled his arm around her shoulders. "I have to do this," she whispered. "I have to be brave...for her. I don't want her to hate me, too. I have to make it up to her, Zale. I don't know how yet, but I have to."

"First thing we'll do when we get home is go to her," Zale said. "When mama and papa come home together, pick her up and show her how much they love her, that'll make a very good start."

"Okay," she whispered tearfully. "It'll have to do - even if she doesn't know me, she might still grow to recognize me as her mother. Unless you've already found a replacement..."

"I approached Moril, but he said he was pretty committed to Saris," Zale said with a grin. "So, I think I will just have to remain with my first choice, and she's the only one I want."

"Good." Kaysa managed a grin. "I'm glad you decided to stick with me. I don't know what I'd do if I had to be alone right now, no matter how much I'd deserve it. You shouldn't be so forgiving, Zale. It isn't fair."

"Maybe not," Zale said with a chuckle, "but my little girl will have her mama, and I'll have you. I've done my share of stupid things in my life, and I got the chances to get where I am today, and so you deserve the chances to be able to be with our daughter as she grows up, to hear her say your name, and to shower her with all the love you can."

"With Merrick deciding he doesn't need me in his life, it looks like I'll have a lot more love to spare for her," she quipped ruefully, then patted Zale's chest and assured him, "I won't dwell on that...not when I can't even confront him. He's happy, then?"

"As far as I can tell," Zale said. He shrugged, and took her hand. "I didn't delve too deeply into their relationship, and had other things on my mind. I don't know if it'll help you with Keeve, but he was very upset and had a few strong words with Merrick."

Kaysa laughed warmly. "So...he pretends not to, but he does have a soft spot for me? I'll have to tease him about that later. When do we arrive, anyway? I'd like to see him."

"I expect it should only be a few more hours," Zale said. "I expect Keeve and the others should be landing about the same time as we do."

"Then we still have a little time alone." Smiling adoringly at her daughter's image, Kaysa murmured, "Let's go eat...but I'm bringing her with us. I can't bear to part with her again."

"I know just what you mean," Zale said with a smile of his own. "I don't ever want to be apart from either of my girls again."

Eyes fixed to Zale's holo-imager now clutched in her hands, Kaysa rose with Zale supporting her on one side, and it was then she finally felt secure in returning to the life she'd abandoned on Tae'Karada. If Zale could still love her after this, where Merrick was quick to move on, then she owed it to him to at least try and raise their child together...even if she ended up fleeing again in cowardice. But judging by Zale's doting and affection, he wouldn't allow her to, and for that she was both glad and comforted.

***

The food had been very tasty, and it helped to pass more of the time together. Shaza was busy at the controls of the ship, and Moril and Shaza were back in their cabin continuing to make plans for their wedding. They had stopped by the cabin briefly, and with the strength provided by Zale's love and the image of Aria, Kaysa was able to smile and chat amiably before they ventured back to their room. Things seemed to be feeling much more comfortable now, and hopes were much higher than they'd been in some time.

The word had been sent back through the ship when they reached the edge of Tae'Karada's system, and then when they'd reached orbit and awaited their turn to land in the New Plouton Spaceport. As the ship shuddered, both Zale and Kaysa slipped into the cockpit. Below them, the planet spread out and around them.

Shaza grinned as she glanced back at them. "Beautiful, isn't it?" she asked.

"Indeed it is," Zale said.

"Should we expect a welcome party?" Kaysa quipped. "If so, I'd better at least brush my hair."

Zale chuckled. "I think we should," he said. He cast a sidelong glance at Shaza who grinned. "Yes, probably a very good idea."

Kaysa nodded decisively, then squeezed Zale's hand before stepping away. "I'll be getting ready. Don't disembark without me."

"I'll stay right here until you return," Zale said with a grin.

The ground was coming up quickly and out ahead of them, the spaceport was distinctive among the other buildings. Even with the view, Zale couldn't help himself from watching Kaysa go. With a content smile, he turned back to watch their landing.

Shaza made it seem simple. They came in high, and then slowed to a near-stop once over the top of the port. Using repulsor drives, they descended toward the berth they'd been assigned. Behind them as Shaza lined up their descent, Moril and Saris appeared silently. Around them, the spaceport rose, enclosing them within its walls. As they reached the level for their berth, Shaza nudged the controls once more to move them laterally into the pad. Ignoring the ship as it moved gracefully to the center of the berth, Zale instead found his gaze drawn to the young blonde woman standing at the edge of the berth holding a small infant. Bouncing the baby on her hip, the woman kept pointing toward the ship. Zale felt tears stinging his eyes as he watched, and within his chest his heart clenched.

"Kaysa," he called. "You have to come up. You have to see this!"

She was a few minutes in coming, but she hurried into the cockpit wearing a clean white shirt and trousers donated from Shaza's personal collection. Coming up beside Zale, she asked, "What is it? What's happened?" But she required no answer, not when her eyes caught the image displayed on the viewer. Her breath left her. "Is that...that her?" she whispered.

"It is," Zale said. Outside the ship, Kimara would wave to them and then wave Aria's tiny hand as Shaza settled the ship finally to the pad, and began the shut down process. "Shall we go get our little one, my love?"

"Drop the ramp!" was all she said before rushing out of the cockpit, towards the rear of the ship, towards the daughter she'd abandoned. The landing ramp had just touched down when Kaysa arrived, and down it she clattered, calling her child's name. Tears washed over her eyes, but her destination remained clear. She reached it breathlessly and a touch fatigued, reminding her painfully of the ill-treatment her body had suffered over the past few months. Though, Kaysa still laughed in absolute delight as she came upon her daughter, who gazed up at her in wonder and curiousity. Her tiny smile warmed Kaysa's heart. "Aria..." she breathed. She hesitated as she raised her hand towards Aria's cheek.

Zale remained standing farther back as he watched mother and daughter together. There was an awkward moment as Aria just stared, but then her smile widened and she began to squirm happily, reaching for her mama. Kim laughed and tears fell from her eyes. She stepped close to Kaysa and let her take Aria from her arms. Zale came up behind her and slipped his arms gently around both mother and daughter. "Welcome home," he whispered.

"Are you sure she knows me?" Kaysa asked worriedly. Her arms trembled, unaccustomed to the weight of her daughter now compared to the baby she had given birth to. Aria cooed and Kaysa chuckled tearfully.

"I'm thinking that's a yes," Zale said as he brushed a finger through Aria's hair. "I definitely think she knows her mama."

"That or she's this friendly to everyone she meets." Kaysa allowed her hand to cradle Aria's cheek. Aria gazed up at Kaysa with mouth wide, exploring this strange woman who seemed familiar enough. Kaysa laughed softly. "I don't care if she is like this with everyone, I'll take it."

"Isn't she beautiful and wonderful," Zale asked in a whisper. "She has your eyes. See? My hair, but...but once it gets longer it can be braided."

"Oh, we'll have to see about that," she informed him laughingly. "Let's get her home. I'd like some privacy to get to know her better."

"You read my mind," Zale said with a grin. He glanced over at Kim, whose eyes were still glistening as she watched the reunion between Kaysa and Aria. "You have a speeder you could get us home in?"

Before Kim could answer, however, Moril appeared at the top of the ramp. "Zale, we've got trouble. Shaza was shutting all the systems down, but before she could kill the nav, Agarra's Pride dropped off the scope. Lerrah's ship's gone, and Shaza can't find it."

"Can't raise her on the comms?" Zale said, his brow furrowing with confusion.

"Silence," was Moril's answer.

Zale turned his gaze toward the sky, as if he might be able to see Lerrah's ship out there amongst the stars.

"They'd just entered the system after hyperspace reversion," Moril said. "That should put them right around Pradzis' and her moons."

"We have to go back out," Zale said. "We've got to find them."

"Could it just be a malfunction with the comm system?" Kaysa asked with concern.

"If we can't raise them on the comm or see them on the scanner, it's something that bears looking into," Zale said.

"If you two want to stay," Kim said, "I can go with them and help search."

"Zale" --Kaysa turned to him, her eyes entreating-- "I can't go...I don't have the strength to. I need to stay here with my daughter."

Zale nodded. "I'll stay with you," he said. "Go ahead, Kim. Help bring them back, wherever they are."

Kimara nodded and started up the ramp.

As she reached the top, Saris appeared behind Moril. "Shaza can't get clearance," she said. "Control is saying that the pattern is full, and they can't let us out until it's cleared some."

"Get on in," Zale said. "When the window opens, you want to be ready to go. Good luck, and let us know as soon as you know something."

"We will," Kim called back as the ramp started closing. "See you soon."

The hatch cycled and sealed, closing the four of them into the ship while Zale, Kaysa, and Aria watched from the outside. Zale could only wish them the best as he put an arm around Kaysa and they started backing away from the ship.

"They'll find them," he whispered. "Come on, let's go on home. Our little one needs us."

Kaysa nodded absently, watching the hatch seal behind Kim. If something truly had happened to her rescuers, then Kaysa wouldn't be able to escape the guilt in knowing her actions had placed them in danger's path. Turning her face into Zale's arm, Kaysa bit back her grief and hoped all would go well.

---

"Impromptu Introductions, Part 2"
By: Lerrah Breijal
Keeve Shivral
Dargus Kandran
Liam Zaneth
Talara Sorenne
Maeren Shivral
Elf [NPC+]

Location: Outside the Tae'Remok System
Date: Selene 21, 5 ABY

***

"Lerrah, did you fall asleep? I knew it!" Keeve's irritated query preceded him as he stormed into the cockpit.

Lerrah threw a switch and the Pride spiraled away from what appeared to be a small moon. As the ship twisted through the blackness of space, blue spears of energy lanced along their former heading. She rolled the ship through another looping turn, then angled hard, straining the gravity generators. One of the blue spears exploded against their shields, and the ship rocked hard against the impact.

"I don't know what happened," Lerrah said, her voice distant as she concentrated on keeping them alive. "We came out of hyperspace, and all of a sudden..." She let out a wordless shout, as a ship raced up right in front of them. Somehow, she managed to bank the ship hard, and the other craft, a fighter of some sort, shot past them. "Elf, any luck on the comms?"

The droid whistled a reply that didn't sound very encouraging.

"Damn," Lerrah muttered as she rolled through another series of evasive maneuvers.

"We're being attacked," Keeve rasped, gripping the back of Lerrah's chair for balance. "Who are they? That ship...I don't recognize it."

"Neither do I," Lerrah said between gritted teeth. "They're faster and better armed, but I appear to be the better pilot so far. I hope. They're doing their best to keep us from breaking for Tae'Karada. What the hell are they doing here?"

"Trying to kill us, it would appear," came Dargus Kandran's reply as he approached. With him, were Talara and Liam, with Maeren just behind them.

"And they're going to succeed if we stick around here too much longer," Lerrah answered back.

Maeren cast a glance at Keeve, her eyes showing a mixture of fear and defiance toward the fear. When his eyes found hers, she looked away.

"What about that planet," Dargus said, pointing to the planet that lay ahead of them. "Upper atmosphere is a fairly thick layer of clouds that tend to reflect scans. Might be able to break free of them in there."

"Sounds like a great plan to me," Lerrah said, and banked the ship in that direction. "I hope there aren't any objections."

"Not from back here," Keeve stated tightly, then look aside to Maeren. "You'd better find a seat and strap in. This is going to be bumpy."

Shiv nodded, but paused for a moment before turning and heading back to the main cabin where she could find a safe spot.

"Hold on to something," Lerrah cautioned, and kicked the ship forward. At their tail, the other ships pursued. She had a clear view of them as she corkscrewed the ship around some more blaster fire. It was two ships, and both seemed to be highly maneuverable and highly motivated to turn them into spacedust.

The evasives were enough to get the Pride to the outer rings that surrounded Pradzis. While it was no asteroid field, Lerrah had no qualms about using the rings as a means to escape the fighters. While the Pride was a larger ship, she had an expert pilot at the controls. Rocks and debris loomed up before them, but were gone with a twist or turn. The occasional thump against the hull indicated a piece of debris that got too close, but none of it concerned Lerrah.

She pushed the Pride faster.

Behind them, the fighters tried to keep up as they dodged through the rings. Their shots found only rocks and empty space as they tried to blast the Pride. A large chunk of rock--possibly a remnant of one of the many moons that orbited the planet--loomed ahead. At the last possible moment, Lerrah broke to one side of it. The fighters split. One followed the Pride, and the second dodged to the other side of the rock. The pilot easily juked his way around the large rock, but wasn't fast enough to avoid chunk spinning in his path. A fiery explosion enveloped both smaller and larger rocks as pieces of the fighter were scattered into the field of rings and debris.

"Got him," Lerrah cried with a laugh.

Talara let out a cheer as well, but Liam and Dargus remained silent.

"There's still another one out there," Keeve reminded them, "and I doubt it will fall for the same maneuver."

"Probably not," Lerrah said as they broke out of the planet's rings. "But it's one less than we had a moment ago."

She pushed the ship toward the planet itself, hoping the cloud would scramble the sensors of the other ship and allow them to escape to freedom.

As they cleared the space between the rings and the planet, the fighter appeared out of the final set of rings and began its pursuit once more. The safety of the planet edged closer.

"Just a little bit farther, baby," Lerrah cooed to the ship. "Just a little more."

The nose of the ship touched the cloud. A cheer started on Lerrah's lips. Before the sound could form, the ship rocked hard. A deafening roar sounded from the rear of the ship. Lerrah was thrown against her harness as blue white energy coursed over the controls.

From where he was plugged into the ship, Elf began chattering while monitoring the ship's damage control system. The blue white energy hit the socket he was plugged into, and with an electric scream, the little astromech was thrown back against the far wall of the cockpit. Smoke poured from every opening in his chassis as a chattering yowl rose and then fell. Finally, the droid teetered, and clanged to the deck with a groan.

"Starboard engine is gone," Lerrah called. "Losing power all over the ship. Hull's intact."

Talara was already moving toward the navigator's seat when Lerrah turned to those behind her. "Strap in," she said. "This is probably going to be a bit rough."

"Can't bring up anything on the sensors," Talara said. "I can't see that fighter behind us either."

"He's the least of our worries now," Lerrah said as she tried to level their descent. At the edge of her senses, she could feel the Pride starting to spin. "We're going down and unless I can get power to the repulsors, we're going to hit hard."

As the ship burst out of the cloud, the canopy brightened slightly, and below they could see the ground spinning up at them. Emergency lighting flickered on in the cabin, and then cycled back through the ship so that everything was bathed in an eerie red glow.

Seeing that there was nothing they could help with here, the two Jedi moved back into the cabin, using the Force to keep their balance.

Keeve, meanwhile, had found his way to Elf's side and was stroking the overloaded droid's domed head. "It's ok, little buddy," he whispered. "We'll fix you up real good." Then, he lay one arm across Elf's torso to restrain the droid, and found a hand-grip with the other, bracing for impact.

The ship dropped heavily through the atmosphere as Lerrah tried everything she could think of to regain control. There was a section on the surface where lights were clear, and with effort, she edged the ship toward them. The ship was sluggish to respond, but she managed to get all of the Pride's drag fins extended to break their descent. There was a roaring around the ship as they burned through the atmosphere. The sound of tearing metal echoed through the ship as one of the fins was sheered from the hull.

The ship leveled out over a long plain, and shot right over the lights illuminating one of the valleys below. The forces exerted on the ship pressed Lerrah back into her seat, but she got her hand up to the controls and punched a series of buttons there. Outside the ship, the repulsors fired and the landing gear extended.

"Brace for impact!"

A cloud of dirt and dust sent up a plume as the Pride slammed into the surface of the planet. The safety harnesses holding everyone in place strained as the forces of gravity attempted to fling everyone inside. The sound of twisting metal was deafening as the ship slid along the ground. Through the canopy, Lerrah could see the world around them rotating as the ship spun slowly while chewing a deep furrow in the surface.

At last, the ship came to a sudden and abrupt stop as the starboard side slammed into something solid. Within, smoke filled the air and the emergency lights had dimmed to near nothing. Lerrah could feel pain in her chest from where the straps had dug in, and she could taste blood in her mouth where she'd bit her tongue. "Keeve? Talara?"

"I'm here," Talara whispered.

From beneath Keeve, a quiet tootling song sounded as dim lights flickered back to life.

"Elf?" Keeve groaned. He pressed his hand to the deck, intending to rise, but hollered as a sharp, throbbing pain blasted through his wrist and forearm. He slumped back over Elf, catching himself with his other hand. "It's nothing," he assured the girls through gritted teeth. "Just broken, that's all."

Talara unstrapped herself from her chair and pushed herself to her feet. She took a step toward Keeve and stopped, her head snapping to stare off into the distance. "Danger," she murmured. "We have to get out of here."

"I'll grab a medkit and check on the others," Lerrah said. "Help Keeve and Elf."

Talara nodded and moved to help Keeve up. As she did, Lerrah grabbed the medkit from the wall and headed into the main cabin. "Everyone alright?"

"I am," Shiv said. "Is...is Keeve?"

"He's got a broken wrist, but otherwise is fine," Lerrah said. "We have to get out of here."

"Danger," Liam said with a nod.

"Coming in from the West," Dargus finished. "We'll need rebreathers out there."

"Next to the exit hatch," Lerrah said. "No power, we'll probably have to blow it to get out."

Shiv untangled herself from her harness and hurried for the cockpit. She found Talara next to Keeve as the two of them followed by Elf made their way out. She looked relieved to see that he was only cradling his arm and appeared to have no other serious injuries. She pulled a rebreather from a container next to her and held it out to him. "You'll need this out there," she said.

Keeve winced a smile. "You first. If there aren't enough, you should have one."

"There's more by the hatch out," Shiv said. She pulled one more from the bin and handed it to Talara. "Do you need help? I can...I can help if you need." She was backing toward the exit as they came forward, her eyes focused on Keeve, a mixture of sadness and hope in her eyes.

"Maeren," Keeve called to her hoarsely. "Just...just stay close." And clearing his throat awkwardly, he held out his uninjured hand to accept one of the masks.

She handed the mask to him and as they reached the hatch that led out to the alien planet beyond, Lerrah handed one to her.

"The Jedi are outside already," Lerrah said. "We'll need to stay together once we're outside and then find somewhere to shelter until we can get our bearings. And see to our injuries." She gave Keeve a pointed look. "I don't know if my distress signal got off. Those fighters were jamming me something fierce. We have to find a way off this place. I think the authorities will want to know about this. Dresh would definitely not be happy to find out they're here." She led the way down the ramp, blaster in hand. "Watch out, the ground's a little mushy."

"What's Dresh going to do about it?" Keeve asked snarkily. "This is no longer Tae'Karadan territory - our misguided High Princess saw to that. Whoever these people are, they've every right to be here and we might very well have infringed on their territory."

"Something has to be done," Lerrah said. "They have to put up warning beacons or something. I don't know how we ended up where we did, but I don't think anyone else needs to go through this."

"Right now," Keeve retorted, "I'm more concerned with our safety. That's why we should head for those caves up ahead. It might not shield us from their sensors, but at least we won't be directly seen."

Lerrah nodded. Maeren was staying very close, but Talara had stepped a couple steps away and unclipped the lightsaber from her belt. As they all looked off in the distance at the caves, Liam and Dargus returned to the base of the ramp.

"The cave's a good choice," Liam said. "If nothing else, if they do come at us, we'll be able to hold them there."

"We may not have time to make it," Dargus said and pointed. Only a few kilometers off, vehicles could be seen speeding in their direction.

"Looks like a transport of some sort," Talara added.

"They came prepared," Keeve commented gruffly. "Can anyone spare a blaster, because it sure looks like we're gonna need it."

Lerrah handed Keeve hers.

With lightsaber in hand, Talara took several steps forward to stand with Liam and Dargus.

Keeve, Lerrah, and Shiv took position by the Jedi's side, wondering how they would possibly be able to halt a speeding transport with only blasters and laser swords at their disposal. "Maeren," Keeve said to her, finding her eyes with his, "you need to know.... I'm marrying Kim. I'm sorry.... But that doesn't mean I want you out of my life - I still want you near...if you want that."

"If you still...yes," Maeren answered softly. "I still want to be near. You're...you're going to divorce me, aren't you?"

Keeve sighed. "It's complicated...but I have to. I don't want to string you along, Maeren, not if I'm not sure about us."

Shiv closed her eyes and let out a long sigh. "Maybe it's best if I just go then," she said. "So I don't complicate your life any more than I already have. Not sure if I'm good for anything but whoring, but I'm sure I can find a job somewhere."

"Don't say that!" Keeve's eyes were drawn back to the transport, hurtling ever closer to them, and he knew there was little time to fully resolve matters with Shiv. "When we get out of this, Maeren...we'll figure things out. Please don't walk away without giving me a chance to explain things."

"Does it matter if you explain, Keeve," Shiv asked. "Does it matter what I say? You're marrying Kim and I don't think anything anyone could say will change your mind. You don't want me as your wife anymore, but you want me to be close...so I can see how happy you and Kim are together and how badly I've messed everything up, how badly messed up I am. I don't want to be the dark little raincloud in your sunshiney world."

"So, I'm the villain again," he muttered wearily to himself. "Fine, Maeren, draw your conclusions before I'm done explaining. Will you at least let me protect you, or can't you trust me to do that, too?!"

"You can explain if you want, Keeve," Shiv said, "but I really don't see what you could say that would change things from my 'conclusions.' I really don't see why you wanted to come rescue me if you were just going to throw me aside again. At least Zale and Kaysa will have a chance to be happy though."

"So you would rather have stayed with Vrax? Are you insane!"

"It's very clear that this has nothing to do with what I want," Shiv snapped. "I messed everything up, and now I have nothing! Nothing! You get to have your nice life, and your marriage, and what do I--"

"Get ready," Dargus called, his voice carrying right over Maeren's.

Despite the fear that the transport would just roll over them, it slowed as it neared. Like the fighters that had shot them down, the vehicle was unlike any they'd seen before. As it finally came to a halt, human-sized beings began to boil out from inside of it. Their skin held a metallic sheen and they carried a variety of bristling weapons. In the darkness, it was difficult to make out details. As they neared, it was clear that they were taller than normal humans, and yet seemed to be dwarfed by one of their number.

The largest of them moved forward slowly, observing casually. The look he gave Dargus and the others was filled with obvious disdain. There was something in its gaze that indicated a dismissal.

"There is no challenge here," the creature rasped in practiced Basic. "The plan is still secure." It gave a command in an unintelligible language, and the troops shifted their stances and readied their weapons.

"What the hells is that?" Keeve whispered more to himself than anyone. Although not incredibly well-travelled, Keeve suspected the alien before him was not a common species. One look at it and Keeve feared they had little chance of surviving this encounter. The thought of throwing down his weapon and surrendering even crossed his mind, but he preferred to die fighting rather than standing helplessly by as his friends were killed around him. "Maeren...you'd better stay back..."

"G-good idea," Maeren managed as she moved back closer to the ship.

Dargus Kandran looked over the opposition, assessing them. It was clear that the large one was the biggest danger. He glanced aside quickly at Liam and Talara, noting their calm demeanours and the readiness to act. There would be one way to get through this, he knew.

Once his people were ready, the alien leader swept a dismissive hand toward the group. "Kill them."

A single step was all it took. Dargus made it, and it was accepted for the challenge it was.

"Halt," came the alien call as the soldiers prepared to kill as ordered. Their weapons immediately lowered and as one they took a step back to give the leader room. Dargus stepped forward, lightsaber in hand and eyes giving away no sign of his intention. The alien nodded. "I accept."

One moment Dargus was stepping forward, almost casually. In the next, he vaulted forward, blade igniting in the middle of his forward flip. He landed behind the alien, and raised his ignited blade. The creature towered over him, but it made little concern to Dargus. There was a flash of blue and the blade sliced cleanly through the alien's chest. Or, should have.

Dargus Kandran stared in disbelief as no wound was left upon the alien. He glanced down at his blade and found, to his astonishment, that the vibrant blue blade seemed to have shifted out of focus with only a blue glow emanating from the weapon's emitter.

"Know, small man, that you have been slain by Khorgan of the Jau," the alien rasped.

One hand lashed out and closed around Dargus' wrist. His cry was muffled by the rebreather as the circuitry in his prosthetic was crushed in a vicelike grip. From his now useless hand, his lightsaber fell to thump softly into the soft dirt. Whatever pain he felt in the replacement limb was instantly forgotten as Khorgan pulled a vicious looking blade from a shoulder sheathe and jammed it into Dargus Kandran's chest. As one might casually toss away a broken toy, the alien the former crimelord back into the dirt. He turned his alien gaze onto the rest and a cruel smile formed over his alien lips.

Keeve and the others were stunned, though Keeve more so, and for another reason. His relationship with Dargus had been strained for a time, but it was impossible to forget he had once been a father to him as well...and now those bonds impaled Keeve's heart with a sadness he never expected. With it came a rage so powerful, he was not conscious of rushing forward with a mighty warcry and blaster levelled at the alien. His shots all seemed to go wide, but were truly all on mark - they simply glanced off the creature's body as if a providential wind had blown in to deflect the blaster bolts harmlessly away. The flickering of a personal shield was absent, nor was a generator visible; the creature's natural armour seemed enough protection from the laser beams. And realizing his efforts were in vain, Keeve abandoned his weapon and resorted to hurling himself at the towering beast. There was barely an opportunity to land a blow before one solid, chitonous arm slammed into Keeve's chest and tossed him aside, as if the creature were swatting away a tsutsi gnat. He struck the ground hard and his vision went black, though Keeve was still conscious enough to perceive the beast's deep, booming laugh.

Talara leapt forward to Keeve's side, partially as a protector, partially out of concern. Behind her, Shiv wanted to rush forward, but held herself back out of fear.

"Keeve," Tala whispered. "Keeve, gotta get up. Can't just lie here. Up you go...come on..."

"Getting up," he mumbled drowsily, and although his hand partially cooperated in gripping Talara's hand, his legs were yet to follow, only managing to push at the yielding, moss-covered ground without finding purchase. With Talara's help and substantial efforts, he rose on teetering legs. Keeve was clearly out of the fight, not that his participation would make a difference - they were all doomed.

Lerrah came forward enough to help Talara with Keeve, and once they were close enough, Maeren rushed to help as well.

Liam Zaneth gazed into the eyes of the alien leader and knew that he could not win. No more than Dargus had. But, as the senior Jedi, it fell to him to protect the group and see them to safety. He thumbed his useless lightsaber to life, but knew that the weapon would be of no use against this enemy. A silent apology was whispered into the Force and set free. He could only hope it would reach its intended target. Liam Zaneth took a step forward and reached down within himself to find the power he'd pushed away, the inky blackness that would aid him in this fight. He felt sick inside, but as he stood he knew that the Dark Side would be the only power that could save them. Not him, he knew. Touching that part of himself again would be his damnation. Down he delved to bring forth the power to kill with a thought.

Just as he was about to touch the Darkness, a shadow rose above him from atop Lerrah's ship.

As the sparse light touched the figure and revealed a woman standing there. There was a serious glint in her eye as she held aloft a curved weapon and aimed its metallic shaft at the alien leader. In the darkness, she almost seemed to glow.

"My ship is behind yours," she called. "Go!"

Liam's touch recoiled away from the Darkness within, and he offered silent thanks. Today would not be the day for damnation.

As the echo of her cry died down, she loosed the shaft from her bow. Khorgan growled something to his warriors and started toward her, knowing the danger for what she represented, but only made a single step before his left eye sprouted a feathered shaft. He dropped with a gurgling bellow.

The woman leapt down to the ground. Pulling another weapon from her belt, she hurled it into the crowd of soldiers who were reacting to their leader's loud death throes.

"Go, go!" she cried again.

"Need to move fast, Keeve," Talara said. She checked on Liam, who was moving to grab Dargus. "Really fast."

"Yeah," he agreed, already regaining his mobility. His eyes cleared enough, as well, to look back at the foreign woman. She was petite in frame and stature, but was easily bringing down creature after creature with her propelled spears, while their own high-powered weaponry had made not even a scratch. He couldn't even begin to fathom what was transpiring, nor would his pounding head allow him much time to ponder it.

The woman seemed to be keeping the alien soldiers at bay with large nets fired from her weapon. The shaft sped forward, and then opened to catch several at once, causing confusion and chaos in their ranks. It was that chaos that allowed the chance at freedom Maeren and the others were racing for.

When at last her quiver was empty, the woman broke for her ship as well. She reached it just as the others were climbing aboard, and just as the aliens were freeing themselves from the tangles of her nets and each other.

Once on the ship, the woman slammed a fist against the panel for the airlock to cycle closed. The sounds of energy weapons peppering the outer hull could be heard within.

"Hold on to something," the woman said as she pushed her way to the cockpit. "It's time to run." She threw back the toggles for the repulsors. The ship shot skyward, clawing toward freedom.

"You have our thanks," Talara said as she and the others gathered just outside the cockpit. "But...who are you? And...and who are they?"

"There isn't time now," the woman said. "You may call me Kaylee. Can any of you fly a ship like this?"

"I can," Lerrah answered.

"Good," said Kaylee. "Take over."

Lerrah didn't need to be told a second time, and slid behind the controls.

"Your friend needs medical attention, but I am not a doctor," Kaylee said as she slipped past the others.

In the light of the ship, she was no longer a shadow. She appeared to be roughly the same height as Lerrah, though with a very slender build. The clothes she wore appeared to be made of animal hides. The pants covered all of her legs and tucked into leather greaves that protected her shins. A pair of sandals protected her feet, straps twining up beneath the greaves. Her torso was minimally covered by straps that crossed over her smallish breasts, but left conspicuous amounts of her flesh bare. A bracer covered each forearm to protect her from the missiles fired from the bow that now leaned against one of the control panels. Her face and torso were covered by some sort of blue markings. Her brown hair was twisted into a braid that fell down the center of her spine and came to just below her shoulders.

"I think I can help him," Liam Zaneth said from beside the prone form of Dargus Kandran. "I don't know how long I can hold him though. His wound is...is very bad."

"It should only be a matter of hours before we are on your planet," Kaylee said. "The ship is not as fast as I would like, but at least it will get us there."

As the woman went to consult with Liam, Talara realized she really wasn't that old. Maybe just a few years younger than Maeren and Lerrah. But still older than me, she thought. She turned to Keeve and smiled sadly. "I'm not a great healer like Kael, but I might be able to help with your headache," she said.

"If anyone needs help," he informed her, "it's Dargus. I'll live; he might not."

"Liam and that lady are helping him," Talara said. "Kaylee. She's some kind of warrior. I think she knows these aliens, or knows of them. I'd be in the way trying to help them, but I can help you."

Keeve sighed, too pained and exhausted to play stubborn. "My hand hurts more," he muttered. "How do I know you won't just take this opportunity to hurt me for rejecting you?"

She looked up at him hoping her eyes conveyed the truth of her feelings as she reached out and took his hand into hers. She wasn't a healer, not the way Kael was or the way the others Master Darr talked about were. But she had watched Kael work, and knew a little about using the Force to heal. She let the flows of it stretch from herself to Keeve, and allowed the lifeforce to begin mending his injury.

The sensation was indescribable - a warmth spreading though his hand and forearm from the inside while his flesh remained cool. With each moment, the pain diminished, replaced by a soothing vibration that resonated throughout his body. As relaxed as he was, Keeve felt vulnerable to Talara's adoring gaze, and before she could complete her treatment, Keeve gently pulled his hand away. Although still sore, he was surprised at being able to flex his hand now. He stared at Talara in amazement. "You're a Jedi, that's for certain. Who taught you that?"

"Master Andro taught me a little," she said. "So I could treat my own injuries during training. I learned a little more watching Kael work and asking him questions. I'm nowhere near as good as he is though. It helped?"

"A little," he admitted, then smiled wanly at her. "Thanks. Now I owe you one...but I really should see Dargus first."

Talara nodded. "Go on," she said. "I'll be nearby."

"Make sure to watch out for that woman...see if you can find out more about her." After a brief pause, he added, "And better make sure we're not being followed, or we might not make it home after all." And shaking out his hand to test Talara's handiwork, Keeve departed, though with great apprehension in not knowing what to expect when he saw Dargus.

---

"Impromptu Introductions, Part 3"
By: Lerrah Breijal
Keeve Shivral
Dargus Kandran
Liam Zaneth
Talara Sorenne
Maeren Shivral
Elf [NPC+]
Kimara

Location: Outside the Tae'Remok System; Yesdol Spaceport - New Plouton, Tae'Karada
Date: Selene 21, 5 ABY

***

As he approached, Liam Zaneth and Kaylee were both crouched over Dargus. "You have to try, Dargus," Liam was saying. "Do you know how upset Yelara will be if the two of you have made amends and you suddenly go and die on her? Try it, Dargus, so we can get you the help you need."

Dargus let out a hoarse chuckle. "You try having a sharp piece of metal shoved through your chest, and see how easy it is to concentrate to enter a hibernation trance."

"You still have to try," Liam urged. At his side, Kaylee was holding a cloth to his chest to staunch the bleeding. "I'll help you..."

Dargus smiled and turned his glassy gaze to the young woman. "You are very pretty," he said. "I wish we could have met under better cir-circumstances. It's very c-cold in here."

"I wish I could have made it to you sooner," Kaylee said. "I apologize."

Dargus' gaze went past her and tried to focus. "Keeve," he said and coughed. "I...I'm sorry for not being a better father to you, the father you deserved. It was wrong of me to do what I did...so very wrong. But...but you turned out well, someone any father would be proud of. You're...you're a good...boy."

He swallowed hard and was carried forward by his legs, now gone as numb as he felt. "I try to be," Keeve responded, his smile faint. He knelt at Dargus' side. "But I still have more to learn...so you'd better stay around a while longer or I might not turn out so well."

"I'll do my best," Dargus said, his voice growing weaker. "I stole your childhood. I hope...hope you can forgive. Me. Tell Kallia. Tell her. I love her. Truly and honest...honestly." He swallowed, and from the pained expression it was obvious even such a simple action was now difficult for him. "Very cold. There's...facility. Clones. Vandenkor. I...forgot." He coughed. "Tell Yelara...she. She saved. Me."

"She knows," Liam whispered in a voice tight with emotion. "She knows, Dargus."

"Tell her. Cold." Dargus' eyes were focused on Keeve as his breathing grew more shallow. He closed his eyes, and as he did a smile seemed to form on his lips. It softened his face, made him seem younger. It was such a foreign expression, such pure, calm serenity, that it hardly seemed to belong there. But the calmness seemed to radiate from him, filling those around him with a peacefulness that seemed contrary to their situation. As Keeve and the others watched, Dargus seemed to get thinner, fainter. And then, he faded completely leaving only his clothing behind.

Keeve was dumbfounded, the entire situation surreal. He opened his mouth to ask Liam what had happened, but only a croak escaped through his constricted throat. Shaking his head briskly, Keeve jerked upright and fled the room to find a secluded portion of the ship where he could safely vent his emotions.

Left alone with Liam, Kaylee turned toward him. "I am sorry for your loss," she said. "He is the first among you to fall, but he will not be the last."

Liam shifted his gaze to her. "You know of them?"

"I hunt them. It is my mission. It is my life."

A nod was Liam's answer. "Who are you? What are you? And what are they?"

"I am Kaylee Soras," she said. "I am a Kitari Huntress. And, they are invaders from beyond this galaxy. My people have fought them for over two hundred years when they first inhabited our planet. I followed them here. I had hoped I could warn your people before it was too late, but I was never able to get near enough to do so."

Liam thought over what she had said. "We will need to go to the palace as soon as we touch down. Yelara has to know about this."

"I concur," Kaylee answered with a nod. "I will accompany you."

Liam nodded again. "I think I need some time for meditation."

"I should meditate as well," Kaylee said. "May I join you?"

"Of course," Liam said. They moved off together, in silence, but there was something in the way she looked at him that made Liam feel slightly nervous about her presence.

Maeren Shivral watched them go with a sigh, and then started in the other direction. She knew Keeve had gone that way. She'd give him the time he needed, but when he emerged, he'd find her waiting for him. And when he did make his way out of the cargo bay, red rings around his eyes and mouth set in a hard line, Keeve halted without a word to Maeren. He didn't trust his voice enough to speak.

"I can go away if you want," Shiv said softly as she took a hesitant step closer to him.

Keeve appeared reluctant, but shook his head and held out one hand, palm upwards, to her. "Don't go away. I never asked you to."

"I don't know what I'm going to do, Keeve," Shiv said softly. She reached out and put her hand in his. "I feel so lost."

His smile was filled with irony and sadness. "That makes the two of us. It seems I'm doing a good job of shutting people out of my life...leaving me with very few friends. I hope you will at least consider staying around. I want you to."

"I'll try. I'll see how it goes, what happens. I'm happy for you and Kim. At least you'll have a wife who isn't so messed up. I want to still be your friend, Keeve, but I don't know if I can stop loving you."

"Maeren...you have to know something...something that changes everything." Tentatively closing his hand around hers, Keeve led Shiv into the bay and had her sit atop one of the containers. He made certain his eyes were fixed to hers and never strayed, so that Maeren could see the regret there. "Dargus...he did something to you, Maeren, something horrible...to both you and Kim."

"Me and Saris are clones," Shiv said sadly. "Vrax made a point of rubbing it in every day. It doesn't stop how I feel about you or what we've shared. But it does explain a lot of things."

"I should've told you," he said apologetically. "I've...known for some time. I just wasn't sure how I felt at the time...but you're not the Maeren I fell in love with, the Maeren who gave me my first beebleberry pop. We have no history. I'm just not sure who you really are."

"I remember all those things, Keeve," Maeren said. "I remember them when they happened. I'm...I'm me..."

"You know that," he told her gently, "but...it wasn't you, it was Kim..." Sighing in frustration, Keeve grasped Shiv's other hand and bent forward so their faces were level. "This is confusing for me. I do love you...we've shared things together, that can't be denied. I'm just not sure if what we had was real, or a product of Dargus' interference. I just don't know anymore, Maeren."

"And now we'll never know," Maeren said softly. She shrugged and shook her head. "Everything is such a mess."

He smiled wanly. "It has been for some time. I don't want you out of my life, Maeren...we've shared too much together for that to happen. But I'm just not sure what kind of relationship we can have."

"Then what's the point of me being in your life," Shiv asked. "Do you have any idea what it's going to be like for me being close to you and seeing the two of you happy together?"

"I can imagine," he admitted. "But won't you even consider it?"

"I...I might, I don't know... If it's too hard, I'll have to go."

"But not forever?" Keeve raised an eyebrow expectantly. "And not too far?"

"Depends on how hard it is, Keeve," Shiv said. "I'm probably just fooling myself thinking it's going to be alright. But I'll try because I love you, even though I don't really have any hope for the future."

"That's all we can do." Smiling, Keeve patted her hand and straightened to his full height. "If you want, we can tour the ship a little. Maybe talk a little more about things?"

"Sure," Shiv said. There was a sadness in her voice, but she tried to smile brightly for him. "This is a really strange ship. It looks almost like a familiar ship, but then it doesn't. I wonder where it came from."

"Well...let's see if we can find out." Gesturing Shiv to follow, Keeve started out of the cargo bay, hoping to seek out some answers, both about their mysterious saviour, and the fate of their relationship.

***

"Coming up on Tae'Karada," Lerrah announced. "I've already got clearance to land, but there's some issue with the starports. From what I can tell, there's some issue with ships departing. Some sort of lockdown, from what I can tell, but the news screamers don't have any information." She turned back to where Talara, Keeve, and Maeren stood. "I'll have us on the ground soon though."

"Were we followed at all?" Keeve asked.

"Scanners have been clean the entire time," Lerrah said. She indicated the astromech droid at her side. "Even had Elf pop outside for a look. As far as we could tell, no one there. And let's just hope they don't have cloaking technology for their ships."

"Or we'll be leading them right to Tae'Karada," Keeve commented. "Do we know if Zale and the others made it back okay?"

"Just before we were attacked," Lerrah said, "they were landing on Tae'Karada. Unless something happened after they landed, they're there." She frowned. "Port clearance isn't letting Shaza's ship take off. They're in lockdown, but only for departures." She tapped in a few keys on the comm. "Shadow Stalker, this is the former crew of Agarra's Pride. We got a little lost on the way in, but we're safe. Mostly."

"Good to hear, Pride," came Shaza's response. "We were just coming out to look for you, but the situation planetside is a little on the volatile side."

"Keeve," a familiar voice broke in. "Is Keeve there? Is he safe?"

"Kim!" he shouted, ensuring she wouldn't miss his voice. He nearly shoved Lerrah out of the pilot's seat to get closer to the comm. "I'm fine - we all are." Frowning, Keeve added somberly, "Except Dargus. He didn't make it."

"Oh...he...he seemed to actually be starting to be a decent person too," Kim said. "That's...I'm so sorry, Keeve. Is...is Maeren there? Is she alright?"

He glanced aside at Maeren and smiled encouragingly. "Only she can answer that."

"I'm here, Kim," Shiv said. "I...I'm as okay as I can be."

"I was so worried," Kim said. "I'm so happy you're safe now. We're going to have a feast or something when you all get here. Something to celebrate us being a family again."

"That sounds good." Keeve watched Maeren expectantly. "Doesn't it? A real feast."

"I'm sure it'll be wonderful," Maeren said. "One big, happy family."

Keeve maintained a smile for Kim, hoping she wouldn't detect Shiv's lack of enthusiasm. "We'll see you when we land, Kim. It shouldn't be too much longer now."

"I can't wait," Kim said, her enthusiasm clear. "We'll be waiting here for you. Kaysa and Zale already went home with Aria."

"Does Merrick know?" he asked with distaste. "Or does he even care?"

"Maybe he feels uncomfortable about the situation," Shiv said. "Not everyone thinks it's okay to keep their exes around to be buddies with."

"This isn't about you, Maeren," Keeve informed her coolly. "Not everything is."

"It only makes sense though," Shiv said. "You're moving on, Merrick's moving on. Do you still care about me? Answer that and you have the answer to Merrick. Besides, Merrick tried with Kaysa, but she didn't treat him right. She just lashed out at anyone who tried to help, like I did. Just shows that Zale's either the biggest fool, or has the biggest heart."

"And I'm a heartless bastard." Keeve shook his head incredulously at her, then turned to depart. "Land the ship, Lerrah and do us all a favour!"

"Keeve, wait," Shiv said. "That was wrong of me to say. I'm just angry over what's happened, and mostly at myself. You don't deserve that. I know I've hurt you a lot, and I don't want to anymore. You don't deserve that."

He paused in the doorway, but didn't look her way. "Forget it, Maeren...just forget it." Sighing, Keeve continued out of the cockpit. He couldn't wait to reach the ramp and leave behind the entire few days. Seeing Kim again would do wonders for that.

Before he was gone completely, Shiv had turned to Lerrah. "Do you think there's room for me to stay with you on the station? I figure I just need to get back on my feet, then see where I can go."

Lerrah nodded. "Sure, Maeren. As long as you need to stay."

The planet rose up to greet them, and Lerrah's attention was consumed by landing the ship, and not consoling her best friend. There would be time for consolation and tender words later, but for now, it was time to be home.

They had no trouble setting down in the berth in the starport, and ending their long journey. As Lerrah starting shutting down systems, she heard a sad sighing toot at her side. Tears stung her eyes then, and the loss of her ship, her beautiful, wonderful ship, hit her like a stampeding bantha. "We'll find another one, Elf," she said. "Somewhere, we'll get ourselves another ship."

Talara had wandered back to find Liam and gather Dargus's belongings, and that left only Maeren with her. She gave her lifelong friend a smile. "Come on, let's go say hello."

"I'm not welcome there," Shiv said. "I'll just wait here until you're ready to go back to the station."

"I won't be long," Lerrah said. She leaned in and kissed the top of Shiv's head. "I still love you, my dear, and I always will. Just make sure you remember that."

Shiv smiled. "I won't forget," she said. "See you soon."

When she got to the base of the ramp, Talara, Liam, and Kaylee were all talking to each other quietly. Just ahead of them, Keeve stood looking around, almost frantically. As a familiar blond figure emerged at the entrance to the terminal, his face lit up and the dark clouds that had seemed to surround him evaporated in an instant.

She was up and in his arms moments later, locked in a fervent kiss. "No more cargo runs," Keeve declared as their lips parted. "Never again."

"What about rescue missions," Kim asked with a grin. "I say if either come up again, we go together. How's that?"

"After what we've just been through, neither of us are ever leaving the planet again." Smiling with joy, but slight weariness Keeve asked, "You want to go home? There's a lot to talk about."

"Lerrah," Kim said looking past Keeve. As the friend she now only possessed vague memories of (and some of those memories that made her cheeks flush) stepped forward, Kim gave her a quick hug and friendly kiss. "I'm so sorry about your ship. If you need help finding another one...I can help make some encouraging comments or something."

"Thanks," Lerrah said with a laugh. "I'm going to take Maeren with me to the station. I don't know if you ever want to see her again, Keeve, but I'll try to at least make her comfortable there."

"Despite my offers," he told her with only a trace of frustration in his voice, "she's the one who wants distance. I never asked her to leave...but if she wants to maintain contact, then I won't refuse her."

"I'll talk to her," Lerrah said. "I think it's that you're now putting distance between the two of you, and she's taking that to an extreme. She's also feeling alone and unwanted. I'll do my best to help her not feel that way, but most of all, I'll be her friend."

"As I was trying to be," Keeve added, but sighed and nodded. "Alright... Just make sure she knows we're still here for her."

"I think I've got a better chance of it since I'm the ex-lover, not the ex-husband," Lerrah said. "I'll keep you posted. And, just remember, if you do ever decide you're okay with a second wife, I'm sure you'll make Maeren the happiest woman in the world."

He smirked. "Right. If you're done making me feel guilty, I'd better get going." Keeve extended a hand to Lerrah. "Thanks for the lift...and tell Elf it was nice to see him again."

Lerrah grinned and approached him. She leaned up and gave him a kiss. "Have a wonderful night, you two," she said. "And, if you need someone to carry rings at your wedding, Elf will happily volunteer. If you don't mind me being around, I want to stay in touch." She kissed him, then Kim, and stepped back. "I'll do what I can to help keep Maeren happy, and maybe we'll stop by to visit soon, if you want."

"We want," Kim said with a grin. "See you soon, Lerrah."

Slipping his hand into Kim's, Keeve motioned his head towards the general direction of home. "We have some catching up to do. Are you up for it?" His smile was wholly unchaste.

"Oh, I'm definitely up for it," Kim said with a matching smile. It faltered a little as she added, "Some things have happened around here that you should know about. Some not very good things."

"What things?" he asked hastily. "Did anything happen to you?"

"Not to me," Kim said. "It's the High Princess. She says...she says the Jedi have done bad things, that...that they're now outlaws. They...they harboured criminals in the Temple, keeping them from justice, I think she said."

"What?! Is she crazy? What do they plan on doing with them?"

"Word I've heard is arrest them," Kim said. "There's something going on at the Palace, but they've got scramblers in place so you can't see what's going on. It's about Nieme and Dani, Keeve. They were spotted in the city recently with a Jedi Knight, and they were free. I think that's who the High Princess says the Jedi have, are protecting, and they're trying to get them back...but the Jedi aren't turning them over or something."

"Those idiots," Keeve hissed, then stopped cold. "Kallia," he whispered. "We've got to get to her. If something happens... The kids, Kim!"

"She and Zari are at home and they're well aware of the situation," she said. "But, I think we should definitely get home. I need to spend some quality time with you."

But Keeve was already backpedalling towards Kaylee's ship. "Get the hover going. I need to tell Talara. I need to warn her!" Then he was off rushing to the vessel before Talara could disappear.

"Okay," Kim called. "I'll be waiting right out front!" She hurried on to get the speeder started up and ready for his return. It wasn't the explosively romantic reunion she'd hoped for, but she was just happy to have him home.

"Talara!" Keeve searched frantically and found her by the rear landing strut, standing by Liam and Kaylee as they spoke. He stopped before all three, slightly breathless. "There's trouble," he told them all, though his eyes settled onto Talara. "You can't go back to the Temple - the authorities will toss you in prison or worse, along with the rest of the Jedi."

Talara frowned. "Prison? They wouldn't...not the...why would someone toss me in--? I haven't done anything, Keeve. We haven't."

"I can sense a disturbance," Liam said. "Something has happened, and it poses a danger, for certain. We were about to go to the Palace, to speak with the High Princess about the aliens who shot us down. Perhaps it's even a better idea to go now, but carefully."

"Really?" Keeve gave a bitter laugh. "She's the one who gave the decree. She's your enemy. She'd have you arrested on sight."

"There's something else going on here," Liam said. "I'm certain of it. And, she'll do everything she can to avoid arresting me. She's my wife, but things are a bit complicated."

He snorted. "You're telling me. Talara, come on. You're coming home with me."

"I'm sorry, Keeve," Talara answered. "I have to go with Master Zaneth. We have to get to the bottom of this."

"Go with him, Talara," Liam said. "This could be very dangerous, and I need to make sure you're able to report to Koran if I'm not. Go with Keeve and keep yourself safe. I'll contact you once I know more, and if you don't hear from me by tomorrow morning, find a secure location and try to contact Koran and Laedra."

"But Master--"

Liam gave her a stern look. "No, buts. I need to know that you're going to be safe, and I need to know that you'll pass on all we learned in case I'm unable to. This could very well be a dire time for all of us, but I have to be certain. These are your orders, Padawan Sorenne."

"I understand, Master," Talara answered. "I'll stay with Keeve, and contact Master Darr if I can."

"Good," Liam said with a smile. "May the Force be with you."

"May the Force be with you, Master."

Liam turned to Kaylee and nodded. They both turned and started toward the exit leaving Keeve and Talara alone.

"Well...that's..." Keeve cleared his throat uncomfortably. "You'll stay with Kim and I. Zari's there too, so...."

"And, I'll make you miserable and uncomfortable every time we're near each other," Talara said. "This isn't going to work, Keeve. I don't want to do that to you. I'll find somewhere else to go."

"No," he informed her. "You'll come home with me. Whether or not it's uncomfortable to me, at least I'll know your safe, so let's go...now."

"Keeve, you don't want me there," Talara said. "I'll find a place that's safe, and I'll call and leave you a message every two hours on the hour. That way you know I'm safe, and you're not constantly freaking out because I'm nearby. You don't want me anywhere near you, and it's just going to make things worse than they already are between us."

Keeve persisted, telling her, "It's a big place...so we won't even brush up against each other. Besides...Zari could use a friend her age around. Don't you want to be there for her?"

"She's pregnant, Keeve," Talara said, sadly. "And, I'll go. She needs a friend. And maybe we can be friends again, you and me."

Frowning, Keeve indicated to her, "I never said we weren't...but I've no idea you did." With a gentle sigh, Keeve managed a weak smile and gestured Talara to follow. "Kim's getting the hovercar prepped. We'd better get going."

"Alright," Talara answered, surprised at how calmly Keeve was taking her revelation. She frowned and added, "Did you already know about Zari being pregnant?"

He shrugged. "No...but that's all the more reason for you to come with me. Someone's gotta help me protect her and that child."

Talara blinked. "You didn't freak out," she said. "That's why I didn't say anything, because you'd freak out. Why didn't you freak out, Keeve? You always freak out."

"No I don't," he protested. "Only sometimes. Should I be freaking out?" His smile was amused.

"I just figured, you would...since...you're very overprotective, and...and she's pregnant. Would you freak out if I told you I was pregnant?"

"But you're not," he reminded her, though his eyes did narrow to slits as he studied her sidelong. "You're not, right?"

"I'm not," Talara said as she glanced down at her flat, bare belly. She patted it and grinned at Keeve. "No babies here. Though, maybe soon you and Kim will be having one."

"Maybe once all this Jedi stuff is over with. Come on, there she is." Pointing to a hovercar pulling up before them, Keeve hurried forward. He opened the hatch and waved Talara inside. "Try and keep your head down just in case, hm?"

"No one can look at my head and figure out I'm a Jedi," Talara said as she slipped into the speeder. "Kael's the famous one, but the girls who recognize him want to kiss him."

"Not this time," he informed her seriously, leaning forward as she sat in the vehicle to gaze levelly at her. "This time they'll likely want to kill him, and you if you're not careful. This isn't a joke, Tala."

"I know it's not, Keeve," Talara said. "But none of the people who want to hurt the Jedi can look at any of us and say we're a Jedi, not if we're not wearing our robes. And, the robes I've chosen--" she indicated her attire "--are not the standard Jedi robes."

"It's still better to be safe, alright?"

"Keeve, you could be a Jedi for all they could tell," Tala said. "Look at you, fit, sexy, and with those dashing good looks."

"She does have a point," Kim said with a grin. "You definitely are quite...fit."

Sighing in defeat, Keeve turned away from Talara and started towards his own seat. "You two together are going to drive me to an early grave. I just know it."

"It's all part of our master plan so that Kim and I can be together for always and ever," Tala said, feigning a dreamy, moon-eyed look.

Kim laughed and as Keeve got into his seat, she leaned over and gave him a kiss. "Don't worry though, I'll still give you lots of attention before you croak."

"Just...drive," he muttered sullenly, and as the two shared giggles, Keeve remained with arms stubbornly crossed over his chest and lips pouting for the entire ride home.

Kim pulled their speeder into the basement parking facility for the tower where their apartment was located. Given the amount of money Keeve had available to him, they were able to afford one of the penthouses on the very top level of the tower. As they got out of the speeder, Kim moved over to Keeve before he could start up to the apartment. "We need to think about a new apartment, one where we have our section and Kallia, Tala, Zeezee, and the babies can have their section. I was thinking of one of those two-level places we first looked at but decided they were too big for us. If you want that, of course."

"We may need to," he agreed. "I don't have any idea how long we'll have to house all these strays from the Jedi Temple, and if they keep breaking their vows and having babies, we'll never have a moment to ourselves again."

"Zeezee and Tala will have to share a bed," Kim said. "We'll try a few days and see how it goes. If it doesn't work, maybe Moril and Saris have room, or Merrick and Analesse. We'll need to keep Zee with Kallia, but I'm sure Merrick and Analesse would have no problem looking after Talara."

Keeve shook his head in disgust at the idea. "I don't want that kind of contact with him. It's best if we keep our distance."

"You really don't like him, do you?" Kim asked. "No bother though. It just means we get to keep her with us, and I really like having her around. You'll just be very glad she's not from Agarra."

"I'm not so sure of that anymore," Keeve quipped. "She tried to seduce me, Kim. You should have seen her! Kids her age shouldn't know how to do that."

"She's been through a lot," Kim said with a laugh. "But my big, strong man resisted her, so everything is fine."

Keeve frowned playfully then chuckled and pulled Kim close as they started towards their apartment, Keeve eager to reunite with his girls and hopefully find some peace finally.

As Keeve and Kim moved off ahead of her, Talara turned back to gaze toward the exit of the parking garage. She held her cloak draped over her arm so it concealed the lightsaber clipped to her belt. She hoped the rest of the Jedi were okay. She'd be able to help them eventually, but she was just a Padawan. Once inside, she'd send a coded message to the Temple, to let Master Vorrel know she was safe. She sighed and started toward the lift that would take her up to Keeve and Kim's apartment.

---

"The More Things Change..."
By: Cirran Tyris (PC)
Sgt. Mathias "Walker" Coin (NPC+)

Location: The Drogen Shipyards, Tae'Remok system, Outer Rim
Date: Selene 21, 5 ABY

***

An alarm was sounding. It was the alarm at the Sienaar complex on Lianna as Feena led him out of the building. Now it was echoing through the halls of Echo Base, the Imps were coming, he had to scramble...and now it was the altitude indicator inside the speeder cockpit beeping a steady warning, Boxer was dead behind him, the snow was rushing up at him, and he was burning...

Cirran's eyes flew open, the chronometer alarm by the bed finally having done its job of waking him up. He threw out a hand to stop its noise, and then lay there thinking for a few seconds, but he'd had the old nightmare a lot of times, and it didn't disturb him as much as it used to, or he tried not to let it anyway. So he yawned and stretched, and was slightly disturbed instead by the fact that his long body seemed to creak in several places when he did so. He winced and rubbed a hand along is severely bruised jaw. Damn this is sore, he thought, but that tends to happen when you leap head first into a Gamorrean. Sitting up he threw his legs over the side of the bed and blearily rubbed his eyes, taking stock.

The room on the station he had rented wasn't the most luxurious of accommodation on offer there, but it did have a full size bed and that was the main thing Cirran had been after. Between his solo dash back from Corellia, and then last night - what with the finding a runaway slave girl on his ship, contending with the muscle sent to get her, and then receiving a few death threats from her owner - well, suffice it to say he hadn't had a lot of rest lately. So after Mielikki had left with Tasia, he had taken the option of renting a room with some of the cash he still had left over from his jobs in the Core, and making use of the bed therein, a real bed into which his lanky form actually fitted, pure luxury. He had been asleep almost before he hit the pillow.

Now he was due to meet up with Walker, catch up some more, and most importantly provide the big sergeant with an explanation. Walker hadn't sounded too pleased with him over the commlink when they last spoke. Cirran thought this was probably not so much because he had asked the security man to inspect a ship, impound it, arrest its slaver owner and knock a few heads together while he did it - this sort of thing was after all the giant's stock and trade - but more because he had asked him to do it in the middle of the night. I know how he feels, he thought, yawning again, but noting he felt a lot better than he had before his nap.

After taking a shower and throwing some clothes on, he headed out into the station to find the bar where he had agreed to meet his friend. The bar was one so far unknown to him - which was slightly surprising, as it felt like he had spent most of his time on Drogen in bars - but there always seemed to be plenty more of them to discover. Cirran wondered if the station should have done with it and just become one giant floating alcohol dispensary.

The station seemed to have recovered well from the devastating attack upon it that Cirran had been present for some months ago, showing few visible signs of damage now that Cirran could see - but then these were the levels still open to the public, he reflected. A cosmopolitan throng of various aliens, humans and mechanicals - pilots, merchants, crewers, techs, military types, foodsellers, government workers, entertainers - and probably smugglers and slicers and pickpockets and pleasure girls too, Cirran decided - crowded the promenades and shops of the lower levels, each bustling about their business. Cirran felt reassuringly anonymous, but still couldn't help wondering which of those around him might be the bounty hunters.

He had soon reached the bar that Walker had suggested, and entered its less-dingy-than-he-was-used-to confines to immediately spot the sergeant bent over the brightly coloured lights of the bar. He sidled up to his friend and took the barstool next to him. "Evening, Walker" he said cheerily. Walker merely grunted looked angrily in his direction. "You have some explaining to do, spacer," he said, glowering, which coming from him, could be disconcerting even to a friend like Cirran.

Lack of sleep must have pissed him off more than I thought, Cirran thought. "Yeah, OK," he acknowledged, and launched into the tale of the previous night's proceedings. Walker sad silently listening to his narrative, his demeanour seeming to improve slightly throughout.

"...and now she's with Tasia," Cirran finally finished a few minutes later. "The chief was eyeing her up, too, but she didn't seem to be having any of it, so there's probably no competition for your...affections...there? Affections, is that really the right word for you and the chief? Anyway, that's what happened. Sorry to get you out of bed, but as you heard, I was definitely in need of a hand."

Walker nodded grimly and took a long pull on the gigantic mug of ale he was nursing. "I hate to tell you this spacer - I know the list of enemies you have wandering about the galaxy is already pretty long, but this Twi'Lek character might be more dangerous than you supposed. He escaped lock-up before we could transfer him to the prison level."

Cirran choked on his drink. "What?" he spluttered. "I've got to warn Tasia - he could come after Mielikki again..." The thought of any harm coming to the girl sent a horrible sinking feeling over him.

"Cool your jets, spacer," Walker interrupted him gruffly. "He's not on station any more, far as we can tell - he obviously had some help to get away - which is odd, since far as we know, he only just flew in to this crate - and his help killed a guard. I'm not too happy about that, as you can imagine. Was pretty pissed off at you, for dumping whole mess on us. Was thinkin' about cracking you one, actually, but when I saw the bruise you're sportin', I figured you'd taken enough punishment."

Relief immediately washed over the pilot, but it was followed pretty closely by a whole new set of anxieties. The Twi'Lek was out there somewhere, no doubt royally pissed off at Cirran, wanting Mielikki back and evidently powerful enough to engineer his own escape from a supposedly secure facility.

"I'm sorry, Walker," he offered after a moment. "The whole thing just sort of...happened. I didn't really know what I was doing."

The giant waved an armoured hand dismissively, "Ah, it's not your fault, lad," he said. "You did the right thing. I'm just frustrated because the slaver bastard got away, that's all." A look of serious intent passed over his face. "He'll live to regret what he did when Mathias Coin catches up to him." He took another drink to temporarily wash thoughts of bloody vengeance away, and then turned back to Cirran.

"So what are your plans, spacer? Gonna get after this Jax bloke still before this Twi'Lek shows up to vape ya, or pack the whole thing in, buy a little farm on some rock somewhere and settle down with this damsel in distress of yours?" He flashed the lanky pilot a grin.

Cirran smiled back. "Having Mielikki drop like she did was certainly unexpected, and it's thrown me out a bit, no doubt. But Jax is here somewhere Walker, and I need to find him if--"

Like so many of Cirran's sentences of late however, this one was unexpectedly interrupted, on this particular occasion by Walker unexpectedly grabbing the front of his jacket with one hand, lifting him up like he was a rag doll, and hurling him bodily over the bar. Cirran's brain launched into a speedy review as soon as this action was initiated. In normal circumstances there might have been a bit of confusion for him, at least briefly, about what was going on, but he knew his friend, and more importantly he knew what the existing circumstances of his life were. So it was that the thought 'maybe he changed his mind about beating me up' lasted only as long as it took for him to land in a crumpled heap on the floor on the other side of the bar. The impact briefly knocked any thoughts from him, but when they returned he very quickly surmised, as the sound of shots, screams and Walker vaulting over the bar to land next to him occurred, that some of his enemies had caught up with him.

"How many?" he asked the sergeant, struggling into a crouching position, adrenaline dealing neatly with any pain from his landing for now.

"I count 8 ..." - Walker's heavy repeater spat out a rapid series of shots - "...make that 7," he said, business-like, ducking then as shots sprayed into the thankfully sturdy bar.

"Only 8? I figured you wouldn't bother taking cover for less than 10," Cirran joked, reaching out to accept Walker's offer of his smallest sidearm, which was still fairly enormous by regular blaster standards.

"I am getting older, spacer," Walker replied, lining up another of their adversaries, but holding his fire when one of the by now few remaining patrons in the bar made a desperate run for the exit through his sights. "Bloody civilians," the soldier muttered, forced by return fire to duck his hulking frame down again. He stabbed a button at the wristpad of his armour, activating a commlink. "Coin here. Disturbance in Dirg's Descent bar, level 236. Officer under fire. All emergency teams respond." His orders given, he again concentrated on returning fire, joined now by Cirran, who, unused to the recoil of his borrowed weapon, was struggling to occasionally hit even the large tables their adversaries had upended to use as cover.

"This doesn't make sense," Walker said, flinching slightly from a spray of superheated dissipating gases from a blast nearby on the bartop.

"I know!" Cirran agreed, sounding exasperated, and continuing to blast away with limited effectiveness. "I have no trouble lighting up a squint as far as a couple of thousand clicks away, but that Rodian's just over there by the stage and I haven't even got him to duck yet."

A string of shots forced Walker down. "Not the fact that you can't shoot to save yourself, spacer - just try not to hit me. No, I mean they must know that the whole station is going to be down on them like a tonne of burning plasma shortly - they must be..."

"Uh, desperate?" Cirran yelped. Walker looked over to Cirran's side of the room, and saw that 6 of the enemies attacking them were rushing the bar en masse, mere seconds away, still-blasting weapons clutched one hand, an eclectic array of melee weapons now clutched in the other. Seeing not much other choice, Walker stood up slightly to take up a better firing position, and rapidly unleashed a stream of energy in the direction of the charge, chewing up a lot of bar furnishings rather nastily, and bringing two enemies down. He saw Cirran, somehow untouched by the hail of fire in his direction, blast essentially randomly with a periscoping hand over the bar into the mob to bring down another, and then a shot from the covering fire at the back flashed into his side. He was knocked backwards as the charging enemies launched themselves over and round the bar at Cirran, who was rising from a crouched position to try and meet them.

Thankfully for Cirran, he had always proved a good deal more efficient at close combat than the blaster variety, and more thankfully, his opponents arrived as an unruly mob, cluttering each other's line of fire. The first to arrive, a seemingly berserk and screaming human, launched himself over the bar at Cirran, much as Cirran had executed a flying tackle against the Gamorrean the night before. Knowing one or two things about the perils of this move now, Cirran quickly ducked down again, his opponent sailing right over his head and headfirst into the wall behind the bar. Bottles smashed spectacularly, their exotic contents spilling forth as the human crashed to the ground, but Cirran was too busy looking wildly around and trying to get to his feet and bring his blaster up again to pay any attention to the colourful explosion.

A very quick series of bangs all around him followed, and Cirran suddenly found himself lying on his back on what felt like a body, looking up at a very surprised Rodian standing over him. Unsure of what had just happened himself, Cirran nonetheless recovered his wits fractionally quicker than his opponent and took advantage of this fact to open up wildly on the green alien from a range at which even he couldn't miss. The Rodian was blasted surprisingly heavily backwards, flying bodily past the end of the bar, and crashing into a couple of chairs. Cirran lay still for a moment, looking disbelievingly at his blaster, and could hear but not see his two remaining opponents seemingly flee out into the main concourse. Evidently, having seen the Rodian's corpse flung back from behind the bar like a rag doll, they had decided that a situation where their companions were defeated and Cirran was evidently still fighting back was not one that was worth sticking around in. Cirran was struck by the sudden silence in the bar.

"Geroff me," a familiar gravelly voice said below him.

Walker had elected not to let a minor thing like being shot stop him, and had commando-crawled rapidly up to Cirran's position just in time to loose a spare slug-thrower he had on him up into the chin of the third survivor of the charge, who, thinking Walker was out of the fight, had leaned across the bar behind Cirran to shoot the crouching pilot from nearly point blank range. Instead, his head was snapped back by Walker's projectile, and the shot that would have hit Cirran in the back had flown wide. Walker had then grabbed the back of Cirran's belt with his free hand and yanked the pilot rapidly over backwards as he tried to stand up, causing his friend to land on him, but also causing the confidently aimed head shot of the Rodian, who had rounded the bar, to fly just high. Walker had then added his own fire to Cirran's burst at the Rodian, and the combination had proved well and truly fatal for their unfortunate would-be assassin.

Cirran sat up, taking his weight off the giant security man, who then himself sat up, wincing, his back against the bar. "You OK?" Cirran asked him.

"Had worse. The armour's good stuff," the soldier grunted. Cirran didn't doubt it. "Besides, I'm getting used to being shot since I met you." Cirran wasn't sure how to reply to that, so instead he shuffled to the corner of the bar and risked a peek around it. Nobody shot at him.

The bar was a mess of overturned furniture, blast marks, and not just a few corpses. Cirran noted that one of the corpses, probably the one that he had randomly hit from behind the bar, still seemed to be rolling around a bit. Not a corpse, then. Raising his blaster, he cautiously stood up.

"Watch it, spacer," Walker warned from the floor. Cirran made a careful approach to the writhing figure, covering it with his blaster, and overturned it with a boot. It was a Weequay, clutching a scorch mark on the right of its stomach where Cirran had fortuitously (for him, if not for the Weequay) hit it.

Cirran waved down at it. "Hi! Don't believe we've been formally introduced. I'm Cirran Tyris, as I guess you know already, and you're one of a group of thugs who shot my friend in the course of apparently trying to kill me. So, now that we've got the formalities out of the way, I'm going to blow your head off, unless you've got any pertinent information to tell me about, say, who sent you." He raised his blaster.

Rather than respond to this overt threat in the manner Cirran had hoped, the Weequay instead gave a coughing laugh. "I'd heard you were lucky, human, but you really do defy belief. Wouldn't last long without that big friend of yours though, would you? Do as you will. We may have failed, but others will come on, and your luck won't last. Every spaceport tramping sublevel lowlife and desert rat with so much as a pointy stick is after you." He gave a gurgling laugh again.

Cirran looked puzzled. What have I done lately? Mielikki's owner couldn't have posted a bounty as fast as this...could he? "Why?" he asked.

"Your bounty has gone up again. Red Dawn wants you badly.....we had to act - Vogash saw you arriving, and we wanted to claim the bounty on you before the professional found you...it's more if you're alive, but still plenty if you're dead, and we didn't want any complications." He was racked with a fit of coughing.

"Haven't you shot him, yet?" bellowed a voice from behind the bar.

"Just a minute, Walker..." Cirran called back. "What the hell is Red Dawn..." he started asking the wounded bounty hunter, and then it occurred to him another word demanded his attention. "Wait...a professional? What, like you?" he asked derisively, but a shiver nevertheless ran down his spine.

The Weequay gave another long rattling laugh, and then smiled, showing bloody teeth. "You think we are professionals, human? Ahahahaaaa...we are mere Pun'tash - improvisers, scum-for-hire, fighting amongst ourselves for tasty scraps. But there are rumours in the underworld, always circulating - and rumour has it that you, human, are under contract..." The Weequay began laughing again until his laugh dissolved into a long, hacking cough.

Contract? Cirran thought, but was interrupted by a cry of "Freeze!" He looked up to see a security squad of 8 troopers entering the bar, pointing their weapons at him. He slowly raised his hands. "Er, I'm..." he started.

"It's OK boys, he's with me," said a voice from the back of the room. Walker had propped himself up on the bar. "You call this an emergency response? Look at all the damage the spacer caused in here shooting all over the place while you were taking your sweet fucking time getting here," he growled.

The corporal leading the team, having deployed his men throughout the bar to secure it, took a look at Walker. "Good to see you too, sarge." He grinned, relieved. He raised the back of his wrist to his mouth and spoke into a commlink. "Gordo here, the area is secured. We'll need medevac for one."

"For two..." Cirran interjected, but then he realised a certain sound was absent, and looked down to see the Weequay had coughed his last. There would be no more answers from him.

Walker was walking out from behind the bar, and the corporal hurried over to assist him. "Pelor's Teeth, Gordo, I can make it as far as the damned bacta tank without the meat wagon. Give me a hand," he muttered. He draped a massive arm over his subordinate's shoulders, the corporal struggling under the weight.

"Let's go, spacer. You're coming along in case anyone else wants to shoot you today."

As more troops arrived to secure the scene, Cirran nodded his agreement to Walker and filed out after Walker and the other troops, casting an eye over the destruction behind him as he did so, his thoughts racing. Ares? The Twi'lek? Jax? It didn't matter who 'Red Dawn' might be, or what they wanted him for - if their reward attracted these sorts of amateurs, he thought, the arrival of their 'professional' could prove interesting indeed.

---

"Tasketh Soup for the Mechanic's/Smuggler's Soul"
By Mielikki Aune
Lerrah Breijal

Location: Drogen Shipyards
Date: Selene 21, 5 ABY

***

The station seemed quiet, almost too much so. Perhaps it was the lack of military presence since the Republic had withdrawn most of their people from the system. With Tasia planetside on a consulting job to bring a new skyhook from the planet to the station, Lerrah had found herself with an abundance of free time. Since she was off-shift today, the skies were essentially the limit, though she was still having difficulty deciding. And so, she'd opted to wander the corridors until some idea came to her. At least it was good exercise.

Mielikki walked down the corridor at a brisk pace counting the credits she held in her hand. The soft leather work boots she wore on her feet felt good, the items though miniscule in value meant allot to her. Having been a slave almost her entire life she had no possessions along with her dignity. Selling her metallic jewelry she was forced to wear along with the slave garments, Mielikki was happy to buy something she could actually use; boots made of a soft, durable leather and a light long-sleeved jacket. What little bit she had left over she decided to spend on lunch, she had just finished counting when she looked up to see a young woman whom she nearly collided with.

"WHOA! I'm so sorry, I really I should have been watching where I was going, I almost bowled you over." She apologised hurriedly, bowing her head slightly as she did so.

"Oh, don't worry," the woman answered. "I should have been paying more attention to where I was going." She frowned. "You're new on the station, aren't you? It's so hard to keep track, though. A lot of people are just passing through. I'm Lerrah, by the way. I usually work on ships here, but today I'm just wandering aimlessly and running into people." She grinned.

She smiled back, grateful to see that this woman was not angry with her. "I'm Mielikki...I uh just got here myself and I'm working for someone called Tasia Harough at the moment until I can get out on my own," she replied offering her hand for Lerrah to shake. "Your name sounds so familiar to me, I can't recall where I might have heard it before." Her face furrowed in confusion.

"Probably from Tasia," Lerrah answered as she shook Mielikki's hand. "She's sort of my girlfriend, but our relationship isn't exclusive. She's also my boss. I work on ships down in the repair bays."

"That explains it then, you must have quite a relationship, dating your boss and all," she replied grinning.

Lerrah laughed. "Well, I imagine if you asked Tasia, she'd just say that we're lovers, and that it's just about the wild, hot, steamy, rambunctious sex. Though, I guess it is. We're good friends, and close, but we're not exclusive, so it makes things interesting. I'd say I have a leg up on the rest of the people who I work with since I've seen her naked, but I think they've seen her naked too." She laughed. "She tends to be with more people than me, though, because she likes guys. Though, I'm sure you really don't want to stand here in the middle of the corridor talking about my sordid sex life."

Mielikki laughed at Lerrah's comment, and waved her off playfully. "Just be glad this is not my sex life we're talking about." She grew quiet for a moment looking off into the distance. "It's another life far away from my own entirely," she commented more to herself then to Lerrah.

"This station's a perfect place to get a fresh start," Lerrah said with a rueful smile. "Most seem to here."

"Do you know a good place to get something to eat? I was just heading off to go find lunch...and well I'm ashamed to say I'm not very familiar with the food of this part of the galaxy?" Mielikki asked, eager to change the subject.

"There are a couple that I really like," Lerrah said. "Just down this corridor, then left at the four-way. It's called Gage's and they have the best tasketh soup. If you want, I can show you."

"Sure that sounds like a great idea, lead the way," Mielikki replied smiling.

"Just this way," Lerrah said, motioning for Mielikki to follow.

With a grin, Lerrah led them off down the hallway. As they neared the end of the corridor, the sounds of the bustling eatery could be heard. It seemed that Lerrah wasn't the only one who enjoyed their. They turned at the four-way and the open doors of Gage's could be seen ahead.

"Looks crowded," Lerrah said as they reached the doorway. "We can probably grab a booth though. They've got a big variety here, but I highly recommend the soup."

Mielikki nodded as she took in the surroundings of Gage's; Lerrah was right this place was a real hotspot with the locals, it was filled with a variety of aliens some humanoid and not. Seeing that a booth had opened up, she quickly flagged it down and the two women took a seat.

Scrolling through the menu Mielikki looked up briefly at Lerrah who was doing likewise. "What's good to drink here?" She asked curiously before looking back down at her menu again looking over all that Gage's had to offer on the menu.

"I like their Hyperdrive Tea," Lerrah said. "It's got three different types of fruit juice, plus one of the black tea blends from the planet below. There's no alcohol in it, but it definitely keeps you awake when you've got a long shift ahead of you. If you're looking for something with alcohol, they've got some good Corellian ale."

"I'll try the tea then, I still much I want to get done today," she remarked smiling. Having decided on what she was going to order, the Veaseph looked up at Lerrah. "I'm going to get that soup you mentioned, what about you what are you going to eat?"

"I think the same thing," Lerrah said. "That's what I usually get when I come here. You won't be disappointed. So, how do you like it here on the station?"

Mielikki nodded. "I think I do like it here, I'm not entirely sure about it yet...but since I've come to this station it seems that my luck has begun to change for the better." She keyed in her order and looked up off into the distance, a thoughtful look on upon her features. "Or so I hope," she added as an after thought.

"Well, you've got a friend out of it, at any rate," Lerrah said with a grin.

This grabbed Mielikki's attention and caused her to look back in Lerrah's direction. She reached across the table and gently touched Lerrah's hand. "Thank you Lerrah."

"Thank you, too," Lerrah said with a grin. "For running into me. I like meeting new people, and for as many as come through here, there aren't many who I want to be friends with."

She nodded in return. "I think I know what you mean, anyway I think after we eat I'll head back; I want to look over some study materials Tasia left laying out for me, I never knew technical manuals could have such funny names." She added chuckling, "Hopefully none are in Wookiee."

"If you need any help, let me know," Lerrah said with a grin. "While I don't know Wookiee, I do work in the bay. Though, if it is in Wookiee, Captain Kir, the head of security, has a Wookiee friend who might be able to help translate."

Mielikki laughed heartily. "I was only joking, the odds of coming across a technical manual on my first day are ten to one..." Her tone quickly turned serious then, "Right?"

Lerrah gave her a grin. "Oh, I'm sure," she said. "I would imagine for your first day of work, Tasia will have you stripping down a J-type Nubian and reassembling it."

---

"Harried Retreat"
By: Padawan Talara Sorenne
Master Koran Darr
Master Laedra Vorrel
High Princess Yelara Zaneth
Padawan Vaya Bek
Irie [NPC]

Location: Jedi Temple - New Plouton
Date: Selene 21, 5 ABY

***

It had only been an hour since Talara had been back on Tae'Karada, but the news wasn't good. She'd watched the address from the Palace just a short time ago, and an icy chill had slithered down her back. It was astonishing to see how quickly and severely things had changed. She knew she shouldn't be, due to the slippery path it would lead her down, but Talara was scared. The accusations, the frightening hate she saw reflected by some interviewed. After everything they'd been doing, to see the public turn so completely. At first, she'd wanted to cry.

Now, however, she knew she needed to contact the Temple. Talara Sorenne finally opened her eyes and completed the connection to the Jedi Temple. The channel was secure and, hopefully, untraceable.

"Jedi Temple," came the reply. "How may I assist you?"

"Taven," Talara said, "I need to speak with Master Laedra, please."

"Of course, Padawan Sorenne. I will connect you at once."

The screen went blank momentarily as the young man tried to connect her with her Master. Finally, as time seemed to stretch on, Laedra's face appeared on the monitor.

"Master," Tala said and offered a bow to her teacher. "I have returned to the planet. I am staying with Master Brael at the moment. Master Zaneth has gone to the Palace to try to see High Princess Neerou. There's aliens, Master, on one of the outer moons. They attacked us, and shot down the ship. Something very terrible is in the works."

"Can you identify this race?" Laedra asked. "We have sensed something troubling in the Force, but we couldn't decipher what it was. If it is these aliens, we must know who and what they are."

"I've never seen them before, Master," Talara reported. "None of the others could recognize them either. Kimara is a really good artist though, maybe she could do a sketch to help out. I'll talk to her about that." She turned somber and sighed. "Master, Dargus Kandran is dead. He was killed by one of the aliens."

Laedra closed her eyes briefly, then opened them as she nodded. "We had felt something the other day - had feared one of you was harmed. I hope he was able to redeem himself, in the end."

"He...he joined the Force," Talara said. "I think. He was there, and as his life force passed on, he just disappeared."

Koran Darr appeared at Laedra's side on the viewer. "Talara, we'll need a full report as soon as you're able," he said. "If Master Zaneth contacts you before returning to the Temple, let him know we wish to speak to him as well."

"Of course, Master," Talara said and bowed before the holographic image of the Jedi Master.

As Koran was about to speak, the communication flashed another incoming message. "Priority message," he said. "Looks like a scrambled frequency. Talara, we'll contact you soon." He toggled the call and a haggard face appeared before them. He bowed. "High Princess Neerou. How may we assist you?"

Her smile was thin and breath came in shallow gasps as she answered, "No time for pleasantries. You're in danger - all of you. Leave the Temple now." She paused to catch her breath and seemed to be looming closer to the screen as if hugging the device to keep herself upright. "Tell Liam I'm sorry - I couldn't stop it. They think you have Dani and Nieme Yaresh. I'm not sure if they'll arrest you or kill you...but you're now enemies of Tae'Karada, and they'll stop at nothing to punish you all."

"We thank you for the warning," Koran said with a nod. "Liam is on his way to you, according to Talara. We'll clear out of here..." He looked at Laedra and frowned. "Stay safe, and may the Force be with you."

"Tell Liam," Yelara added hurriedly, looking back over her shoulder to watch for anyone entering, then facing the screen again, "that Va'Lesh...they have him." The struggle to maintain her composure was obvious in her tearful gaze and trembling lips, but Yelara held on. "I can't leave here...I can't do anything. I have to go now before they detect the signal...good luck to you all and...and I'm sorry I couldn't do more. I'm so sorry...." And as her emotions finally overwhelmed Yelara, she severed the connection.

Laedra rose swiftly. "We have to gather the children and anything we can carry. We'll need a safe location...but where?"

"I fear there may be no safe locations," Koran said. "If we can get the transport, we could hide over beyond Vendra. We'll need to make sure no one is in their robes. We should tell Talara to remain with Keeve, and the same with Zari and Jae Dyn."

"And what do we tell Liam?" Laedra asked softly. "He'll never leave New Plouton, not with his son missing and Yelara being held captive in the palace. He'll place himself in danger."

"At least we can tell him what's happened, and hopefully encourage him to not wear his robes," Koran said. "I don't believe we will be able to stop him from trying to free his son or wife. For now, our priority must be the Padawans and younglings." He turned and stared off in the distance, as if he might be able to see the Palace. "Hopefully Liam's padawans managed to escape the Palace."

"They were once soldiers, Koran," she reminded him, "they can fend for themselves. We must see to our own safety. I'll have Orn pack food and supplies while we gather the children. From Yelara's message, I don't believe we have much time."

"I agree," Koran said. "I'll begin getting everyone assembled to leave. Make sure that Talara knows to stay away from the Temple, and that we'll find a way to contact her when we're settled. I believe this is my punishment for missing the first Jedi Purge."

Laedra touched Koran's cheek and teased fondly, "Self-centred even at a time like this. Just remember there will be no purges, Koran. We will overcome this."

Koran smiled. "Of course we will," he said. "Losing Dargus is unfortunate, but hopefully we won't lose any others."

"We won't," Laedra assured him. "We can't." With an encouraging stroke of his cheek, Laedra returned to the comm to relay the message to Talara before she would depart to begin the necessary preparations.

Koran watched her for a moment before starting off to begin preparing their method of escape. They'd take several ships to get away. If something happened to one, at least the others would have a chance. He just hoped Yelara's warning had come soon enough.

***

Vaya raced through the woods. Several hours before she had returned to New Plouton after having visited with Jori, only to discover that the Jedi were now named enemies of the people by the government they had all helped to forge. Laedra had commed her, telling her to hurry and watch her back, as they had just received word that Palace forces were en route and that the Jedi were in the middle of evacuating.

How can this be?! she wondered as she traversed the forest, calling on the Force to aid in her speed, agility and stamina. Like the others, she knew the public outcry when it was discovered that Dani was not in official custody, but it frazzled her as to how overnight they had become wanted fugitives.

She first sensed danger, then she caught the barest glimpse of black matte armor, only the kind worn by palace troops. She knew it well after the last time they had attcked the Temple - only then it was by command of the very two they harbored.

Not slowing down, she Force jumped into the branches, trying to be cautious and as quiet as she could. She shifted her weight and used the Force for nimbleness. She jumped and swung from branch to limb, higher and further along, hoping to put safe distance between her and the troops. She didn't want to have a confrontation, she was only one person, and it had not been lost on her that those men and women in armor were only doing their job, just like before - however ill-guided their orders may have been.

The Temple was still a good distance away and her new route was taking twice the time it would have by ground, but she couldn't chance being spotted, they probably had several scouts out in front of their positions, like the one she had spotted. If it was anything like before they would be flanking the Temple and in greater numbers. She stretched out with her feelings, trying to contact Laedra, projecting the feeling of, and image of troops in the woods not far from the temple. She didn't know if using her comm would give away her position if they were monitering communications, or even useless if they were jamming.

As she made her way along, she could see the stonework of the temple through the leaves and branches, Almost there, she thought as she landed on a small limb. It quickly snapped, being rotted. She tried to to recover to the nearest branch, but it was just a hair out of reach. Her finger nails scraped against its bark as she began to fall backwards towards the ground. She used the momentum, pulling herself into a ball and then stretching out her body again with a twist in an attempt to redirect her descent. She bounced from one limb, ricochetting to another, and another, each slowing her speed until she could land firmly and safely.

She had come more than halfway down from where she was. A black armor-clad trooper stood upon a limb several trees away, his rifle aimed right at her. As the shot was fired, she leapt up and off the limb to the ground. A stun net whipped through where she had just moments before stood. She hit the ground, rolled and sprang back to her feet. The trooper wasted no time; he was down to the ground in pursuit, taking position to fire again.

This is not good, she thought. She knew she had not the time for this, more troops were approaching, and she had to get to the Temple and join the others.

She threw out both her arms, openning her palms as if she had thrown something. A wave of Force energy was projected at the trooper, knocking him back, but not out. She used those precious few seconds to close the distance between them. As he got back to his feet Vaya jumped and spun kicked for the trooper's head. The trooper pivoted and brought up his arm holding the rifle. Her kick had been essentialy blocked, but the force of it knocked the rifle from his grip. As she landed she quickly turned, anticipating his attempt to backhand her.

Now she found herself in a hand-to-hand tussle with a trained soldier. He was bigger, armored, trained to kill. She was smaller, faster, and trained not to kill. But she knew she had to take him out if she was going to make it to the temple before a whole army of them was upon her. They exchanged blows, the trooper's causing her more grief as he had brute strength and armor behind his punches. It was all Vaya could do to keep from being pummeled to death. She used her smaller size and agility to her advantage, calling on the Force to help lend more strength to her punch, and to numb away the increasing pain of the beating she was receiving. She could dodge and deflect many of the troopers advances, but the ones that got through really took a toll on her.

A black fist popped her square in the face. A shot of pain radiated across her face, her eyes teared up and blood gushed from her nose and mouth. She could feel her nose was broke and both lips were split. She wanted to ignite her lightsaber and end it, but she couldn't, she wouldn't. As she fell to the ground she spotted his rifle. She rolled and sprang for it. She leapt head first and arms outstretched, her hands finding the rifle as the rest of her body flipped over. Twisting, she landed to her feet with just enough distance between her and the trooper. As he charged her, she fired.

Another charged stun net shot from the rifle, its energy charged netting shot out and wrapped about the trooper's armor. Its charge sizzled with blue flares, forcing the trooper to his knees. Vaya watched a moment until the stunning effects indeed incapacitated the trooper. She tossed the rifle into the brush. She could hear the rustling not too far from behind her, she knew she had to go.

Activating her comlink she called Laedra: "Master, I am on the other side of the temple and we have uninvited company close behind," she informed as she raced for the jedi landing port on the other side of the temple. She figured she was close enough that it didn't matter to use the comm, and if it was jammed she would be with the others in a moment anyway - though not soon enough for her liking. Her face was throbbing, she had tears and blood trickling down her face, stinging her eyes, and she could feel her lips starting to swell.

***

Provisions and necessaries had been gathered, leaving behind the nonessentials they hadn't the time or space to take along with them. Their journey would be a dangerous one that required stealth and speed, and no burdensome loads weighing them down. It was an exercise in putting theory into practice as Padawans were forced to abandon cherished possessions - objects reminding them of their homeworlds or family members, charms, clothing; all were left behind and impressed upon the children why Jedi renounced materialism and the formation of attachments. Dwelling on what was lost would only dishearten and cause a loss of focus. With their very lives at stake, such distractions could not be afforded.

So, assembled within the flightdeck, shouldering packs hastily stuffed with Jedi robes that had been traded in for plain, nondescript clothing, the Temple's Padawans, Masters, and Orn waited in attentive silence for Laedra to address them. The Masters had been first to hear of the Jedi's denunciation, but the Padawans were told nothing so as to keep the evacuation orderly and free of panic. Now, as members of the Order, they deserved to know why they were leaving behind their home, even though many of them were no more than children.

From their wide, curious stares, it was apparent they were unaware of what was occurring, though much of their inquisitiveness stemmed from Laedra's mundane attire consisting of trousers and tank top jacketed by a long, brown cape. Her smile was calming to banish any fear that might arise, and her eyes passed over each of them as she began. "This is an important day for us all, albeit one we hoped would never come, as it did for our predecessors decades ago. And it is one that will require us to conceal who we are, but it does mean we should be ashamed of the path we've chosen for ourselves. There are those who wish to harm us, driving us from our home." The children were listening, but their eyes furtively wandered to one another, each questioning the other if what they were hearing was as dire as they were beginning to realize. But Laedra continued speaking, intending to give them all at least a glimmer of hope. "Never forget that we are Jedi, and if we trust in the Force and never allow ourselves a moment of doubt or fear, then we will persevere. We must."

A timid squeak of a voice captured Laedra's attention. Her gaze lowered to the young, red-haired Padawan, her freckled nose scrunched up inquisitively.

"Yes, Irie?"

The girl nodded briefly, acknowledging Laedra's permission to speak. "Master...does this mean we have to lie? If someone asks about being a Jedi, we're not supposed to tell them the truth...so that makes it a lie, right?"

Laedra smiled faintly and nodded. "Deception is sometimes a strategy Jedi are forced to adopt. In sparring, your teachers will instruct you to feint your opponent in order to mislead them and gain an advantage; that qualifies as a deceptive technique as well, but I do not wish to trivialize what I am asking of you all by suggesting this is nothing more than a training session."

After a brief pause, Laedra's voice was quiet, yet infused with conviction as she continued: "We are being condemned, and whether or not it is our choice, the Jedi are being thrust into battle. At all costs, we shall only take up arms as a last resort, and instead direct our efforts primarily towards concealing who we are in the hopes of surviving this. The Force still flows in us all, and will continue to even if we deny our true identities. Although we cannot be Jedi in title, in essence we are just that and will remain so, no matter how long we are required to hide. So, do not ever be disheartened" --she laid her hand on Irie's crown, giving her an encouraging wink-- "for we will prevail. You must all be brave and trust in the Force, and above all else...remember who you are. From that, you may draw strength."

To Master Vanen Ryoss she tipped her head, giving the signal to usher the children into their designated vessels, each destined for a different section of Tae'Karada. It was possible many might not see their fellow Padawans again, but Laedra held faith that they would overcome this daunting setback.

A gentle tug on her hand returned her attention to Irie, who remained while the others filed onto the ships. "Master Laedra?" she asked brightly. "I'm staying with you, right?"

"I'm afraid not, Irie. Each student has their assigned destinations. You're with Master Novix, if I remember correctly."

Irie screwed up her face in distaste. "Master Novix dresses funny. Are you sure I can't go with you?"

Suppressing a chuckle, Laedra idly stroked the girl's hand with the edge of her thumb as she considered her exuberant blue eyes and impishly pouted mouth. Irie's buoyant personality would no doubt bring some levity and brightness to whomever she was with during these dark times. Perhaps it was selfish, but Laedra wanted a touch of that optimism and unbridled joviality for herself. She squeezed Irie's hand and nodded affirmatively. "You'll ride with me. Though I warn you" --she grinned-- "I don't cook very well."

Irie giggled and skipped alongside Laedra as they proceeded towards their own transport. "That's okay, Master. I'll just hold my breath and swallow."

Laughing softly at the girl's upturned face and toothy grin, Laedra, for a moment, looked favourably upon their future. The Force had not revealed anything during meditation, had given no warning about what was now befalling them. A darkness was looming over them, but it was one more pervasive and threatened not just the Jedi Order, but all of Tae'Karada. What that was, Laedra could not discern yet, but it was drawing nearer and the Jedi were in no position to keep it from encroaching on them all, not when being driven into hiding.

As the other ships were firing their repulsors in preparation for departure, Laedra and Irie were climbing the landing ramp of their own when a faint voice touched Laedra's mind, seeming to call to her from the bottom of a deep chasm. She recognized the distinct presence through the Force, and sensed its distress. Laedra frowned and gazed out through the now-opened aperture of the spaceport's roof, questing with her inner sight for Vaya's location. She was nearby, her Force signature growing stronger by the moment. "Go on, Irie," Laedra murmured, blindly guiding the girl into the vessel. "I'll be there in a moment."

The girl obeyed, though watched Laedra uncertainly as she slipped through the hatch.

"Come on, Vaya," Laedra whispered. "Time is running out...." And just as the first ships were lifting off, the young woman burst into the port, sprinting headlong. Blood stained one side of her face. "Vaya! What's happened?"

"Soldiers!" she yelled as she ran up the ramp and collapsed just inside the hatch. "Other side," she said, her voice thick and strained from the beating she took and the emotional relief of making it to safety. "Coming up...other side...temple. Got caught...scout."

"That means it's time we left," Laedra mused somberly and cycled the hatch shut. When the ramp had retracted, Laedra barely had time to brace herself before the ship ascended. She hoped they had gotten away without being detected.

Crouching at her Padawan's side, Laedra placed a hand on her shoulder while, with the other, she gingerly inspected Vaya's injury. "I am sorry this has happened. I am sorry you have to learn what it's like to be persecuted. It should not be happening, but we'll cope."

"I just don't understand..." Vaya said as she sat back up. "This can't just be about Dani and Nieme, it doesn't feel right at all."

"Things haven't felt entirely right for a while now," Laedra agreed. "But whatever has instigated this, we have no choice but to flee until we can uncover the truth. And in the meantime...." She smiled to reassure her Padawan. "We'll need to get you into some new clothes. You can't leave this ship looking like a Jedi. A little absurd, isn't it?"

Vaya nodded with a little laugh, "A little more so, but whatever we must do. Clothes don't make the Jedi, right?"

Smiling faintly, Laedra whispered, "Correct...and recognizing that makes you a better Jedi...even without the robes."

Prideful of her Padawan's maturity and understanding, Laedra was also comforted by it. If their Padawans survived to continue their legacy, there was no doubt as to their ability to represent the Order faithfully. This was their next generation of Jedi, of peacekeepers and missionaries, and dedicated guardians of the Force's universal balance; if the last of the Temple's masters became fatalities in what was doomed to be a lengthy battle, the Padawans would be protected at all costs. They were the future, and without them, only darkness would prevail. The thought alone chilled Laedra to her very core.

---

"Friendly Favours"
By: Mielikki Aune (PC)
Tasia Harough (NPC+)
Lerrah Breijal (NPC+)
Dust (NPC)

Location: Drogen Shipyards
Date: Selene 21, 5 ABY

***

Tasia's chosen drinking establishment was as disreputable and loud as anyone who knew her would come to expect as her preference. And she seemed to be enjoying herself immensely, lounging in the rickety wooden char with leather-encased legs sprawled out before her, and tumbler in hand. She returned an entirely hungry smile from a passing stranger, then laughed resoundingly at Mielikki and Lerrah. "Having fun yet, ladies? This is the place to be, trust me!"

"I love it," Lerrah said, too loudly over the music and other customers. She took a long swallow from her drink and looked around. "If Anoran ever stepped foot into this place, she'd have it firebombed off her station." She laughed and grinned. "I love it even more."

"It's very lively!" Mielikki remarked, yelling over the noise that seemed to fill the room from all directions. "Is it always this mobbed here?" She asked before taking a good swig of her respective drink. She straightened in the chair as she carefully crossed her legs, still wondering how Tasia had managed to convince her to wear the blocky soled knee-high pleather boots she had on her feet.

"The drinks are cheap, which draws a lot of patrons," Tasia answered. "But they mostly come for me." Chuckling huskily, she raised the drink to her lips. Gulping it down, she leaned forward to confide to Mielikki, "Many of the scruffier men on the station come here - the more dangerous fellows. That makes it an even more appealing place to be, don't you think?"

"WHAT?!" Mielikki choked on her drink nearly falling out of her chair at Tasia's remark, drawing a few looks from the other patrons around them. Brightly blushing Mielikki carefully regained her balance before answering Tasia's question. "Appealing to you perhaps but to someone like me, I don't know if it's a good idea I should be here."

Lerrah put a hand on Mielikki's arm and gave her friend a smile. "Don't worry," she said. "We won't let anything happen to you." She glanced around the room and sighed. "I wonder if Cirran's going to stop by. I don't know if he even comes by this place, but it'd be nice to see him. He's definitely one of the scruffier types, but in a nice way."

"You think you could make your crush a little more obvious?" Tasia teased sarcastically.

"It's not like that," Lerrah said. At the skeptical look Tasia gave her, she wilted. "Okay, maybe it is, but it's a new thing for me, alright? Anyway, it's not like he'd give me the time of day. I still can't decide on which model of ship to buy. I think whatever I get, I'm going to call it 'Hopeless Case.'" She grinned and drained the rest of her glass, raising it so the 'Tender could send a refill.

Tasia pouted at her friend and lover, leaning forward to brush her fingertips over the back of Lerrah's hand. "What? Am I not fulfilling you? Is it that only a man can do that for a woman?"

"Oh pish," Lerrah said with a grin. "I have no idea what a man can do, but...I don't know, even though he's all cynical, there's something about him. I just like him, that's all. And, we'll talk about fulfillment next time you go slipping off with the Sarge."

Chuckling lustily, Tasia savoured another pull of her drink, her mind undoubtedly on Walker himself as she licked her lips clean.

Quietly, Mielikki observed the pair as they interacted with one another, her thoughts drifting to that of Cirran. She didn't quite consider him scruffy but cynical perhaps, though maybe it was more of his attempt at dry wit? There did seem to be a certain softness about him, she was more than certain of that. Others, regardless of gender, would have taken advantage of her that fateful night she and Jaytwo chose to sneak onto his ship in hopes of escaping Drer. Yet he did none of that and protected her even after fending off Agork. Sighing, Mielikki traced the rim of her glass wondering what the tall pilot was up to. She hardly noticed either of the two women sitting across from her staring at her.

"Someone is daydreaming," Lerrah said with a smile. "So how are you liking work on the flightdeck, Mielikki? Tasia was saying that if I don't get snapping up there, you could steal my job."

Mielikki smiled to Lerrah. "I like it, I'm learning more about droids everyday with the work I'm doing. I mean, hey, I must be doing a good job I've heard no complaints from Tasia yet...right?"

"That's only because she sleeps with me," Tasia quipped, grinning at Lerrah and shooting her a knowing wink. "I might even put her up for a raise soon."

"I DO NOT SLEEP WITH HER!" The Veaseph retorted loudly, in part from inebriation and the noise volume. Harrumphing, Mielikki fell back against her chair and puffed out a stray strand of hair from her eyes, mumbling something in her native tongue before taking a swig of her drink.

Lerrah and Tasia stared at each other in stunned silence before breaking into snickering laughter. "I think she's the only person on this station who can say that and be telling the truth," Tasia said, breathless with laughter.

"Well, there's Administrator Anoran," Lerrah pointed out. "I think Ril is the only woman she'd consider being with. Though, she prefers Admiral Kano. Oh, I think he's a man I could stand to be with."

Tasia purred in agreement. "Reminds me of Walker...the big oaf. Must be the uniform."

Lerrah laughed. "You'll be with anyone who shows you interest," she said. A server stopped by to deposit new drinks on the table and wander off. As Lerrah was taking a swallow from hers, she frowned. "Speaking of interest, that guy over there is showing considerable interest in our table."

At her comment, Mielikki dared not glance in the said male's direction. "That makes me a little worried, what if he wants to start trouble with us?" The Veaseph asked in a hushed tone just loud enough for the two females to hear. She looked up then quickly. "Oh no, I think he's coming our way." Attempting to make herself as small as possible Mielikki fidgeted nervously in her chair and chewed slightly at the inside of her lip.

Tasia sat up slowly, her lips stretching into an amused grin. "Actually, I think he's coming your way," she informed Mielikki.

Mielikki felt her blood turn to ice water as the man came closer to their table before eventually he was standing before the three. During her time spent with Rda, the Twi'lek had also taken to using her as a form of bribery numerous times in exchange for other many sought after items. It didn't matter whether the customer was male or female the Twi'lek would let them have their way with the spotted woman just so long as he got what he desired in return for her services. And Mielikki was helpless to do anything.

Frozen stiff in her seat, she did not know what to do next - if she ran would he chase her? But then what would happen to her friends sitting here? He might try something... She nearly jumped as he grabbed her wrist.

Tasia sprang to her feet. "Hey! Take it easy, pal. If you wanna buy her a drink, the polite thing to do is offer, not twist her arm."

"Who said I was going to buy her a drink?" He asked, looking over Tasia briefly before he cast his eyes back over to Mielikki as he lustily drank in her appearance. "She can come with me, we know each other...isn't that right?" He remarked, lightly tracing her fingers before he dropped her hand.

"I honestly don't know w-what y-y-you're talking about," she replied, unable to break her gaze with the man. He was familiar to her somehow, she wasn't sure who he was exactly but he definitely remembered her. One of Drer's junkies maybe? She wasn't willing to rule it out, his eyes had the slight golden tint of spice addicts.

"I don't think she wants to go with you," Lerrah said, then waved him away. "You may go now."

"Maybe then you would like to go with me instead," he answered to Lerrah snidely as he reached out to grab her by the arm. Without thinking Mielikki splashed her drink in the man's face and before she knew what had happened next he had tripped over Tasia's feet and lay face down on the ground, holding his throbbing head.

"Oh, you poor fellow," Tasia drawled with false sympathy. She crouched beside him and grasped his arm. "Need help? That was a pretty hard knock, hm?" He looked up at her, prepared to sneer, but Tasia's sultry grin and entrancing half-lidded gaze stayed his anger, as did the gentle caress of his cheek. "Come on...let's get you cleaned up. I know a nice secluded place."

Reluctantly allowing Tasia to help him to his feet the man stood up shakily. He groaned as he held a hand to a fast forming bump that was now on his forehead. "Finally nice to see someone who appreciates a little company, are your friends coming too?" He asked, licking his lips as eyed Mielikki and Lerrah.

"Of course they are." Tasia glanced back at the two women, her eyes evincing a mischievous gleam. "Aren't you?"

"Oh, definitely," Lerrah said with a sultry smile. She lazily dragged a hand over one of her breasts with his eyes following every movement. "It's been a slow night so far. I'm definitely ready for some fun."

Observing the scenario carefully, the Veaseph knew she could trust her female friends...or Lerrah anyway; Tasia was another tale altogether and decided to play along with whatever plan it was Tasia and Lerrah had formed. Coyly, Mielikki traced the rim of her elaborate glass with her index finger, gathering the small grains of salt that dotted the edge, afterwards proceeding to lick her finger clean of the salt. "I'll come along with you, but just to watch for my own pleasure."

"Our friend here doesn't want you to just watch," Tasia admonished, smoothing a hand over the man's shirt-front once he was upright. "Let's go to that room, and we can organize the night's" --her lips hovered over his as she whispered-- "event. You did bring credits, right?"

He nodded. "Of course I brought creds."

"Oh, good for you," Lerrah said, patting his shoulder. She leaned in until her lips nearly touched his ear. "You're in for a real treat tonight. It's definitely your lucky night." She brushed her lips against his ear. "Ours too." With that, she started toward the exit, giving the perfect amount of enticement into her walk. She threw a glance back over her shoulder and gave him her best smile. They all followed.

Thanks to Administrator Anoran and Rilanna's intervention, the corridors were no longer littered with refuse, including that produced via bodily functions, and no longer a place to sleep for the station's indigents. Although drunks still staggered about, security guards patrolled the area, making certain everyone was kept in line. Tasia sighed wistfully as an armoured security guard passed them and her thoughts conjured images of Walker. "What a hunk," she breathed, and their date for the evening smiled suavely. Tasia opened her mouth, prepared to correct the mix-up, but decided to enlighten him once they reached the room and carried out their ruse. She chuckled lowly and took his arm, steering him around the corner.

It was a meter more before the small group reached a dented and worn durasteel door. Tasia stepped forward, tapped a short series of numbers into the keypad, and the door pulled away to uncover a rather familiar room. She smiled aside at Lerrah and said cryptically, "I won't tell him if you won't..."

"You know he'll know," Lerrah said with a giggle. "He always does." She ran a finger down their boy's arm as she backed into the room. "This is where the best parties happen on the station. We like to call if Ty's Fun House. Come on in, and the fun can begin." She ran a hand sensuously up her thigh as she touched back against one of the desks.

Trailing behind the unsuspecting victim, Mielikki grabbed the man by his waist from behind and guided him over to Tasia. "You know what to do, Tasia," she purred as she felt the strong need to choke down rising bile in her throat as she did so. Was this really such a good idea? She mused, a feeling of worry and nervousness washing over her.

To reassure her friend, Tasia reached out and lightly smoothed her fingers over the top of Mielikki's hands before taking their place around the man's waist. The bulge was already growing in the crotch of his pants, and his eyes ogled the twin mounds of flesh displayed prominently through the opening of her vest. Tasia tsked at him chidingly as he offered himself a sample of her delights, squeezing her breasts roughly to reflect his growing impatience. He wanted his surprise, and the girls were prepared to oblige him. Winking surreptitiously to Lerrah, Tasia began unfastening his shirt. "Let's get you more comfortable," she purred, "hm?"

"This is my favourite part," Lerrah said as she idly played with the zip of her coverall, slowly exposing the flesh beneath the fabric. She hoped he didn't explode from sensory overload because Ty would certainly be upset if they made too much of a mess in here. "And, I had thought it was going to be a boring night."

Steeling her nerves, Mielikki backed into a nearby work bench and hoisted herself atop it. Languidly she crossed her legs and dangled one over the other, exposing a glimpse of spotted flesh on her thigh as she did to the man she had now mentally dubbed as "Dust" for his apparent likening of the spice drug. As the other two worked their magic on Dust, Mielikki felt around blindly until her hand found a hefty piece of plastic tubing cable. "Hey gals I have an idea...let's play a little game..." she remarked coyly as she presented the length of clear tubing cable.

Dust eyed her warily, "What kind of game?" He asked; his voice was heavy with huskiness and desire as Tasia opened his shirt, proceeding to work on his belt now.

"Well...I know Tasia really loves to play tie-up, right Tas?" She asked, looking to Dust then over at Tasia for confirmation.

"It adds some excitement," she breathed against his lips, "doesn't it?" His pants dropped around his ankles, the appendage hidden beneath his underpants standing upright. Tasia moved in closer, allowing her crotch to brush against his display of arousal. "You tied up while we ravish you.... Haven't you ever fantasized about that?"

"Only with you, gorgeous," he half growled half groaned in response, the close proximity between he and Tasia nearly drove Dust over the edge and his thoughts were nearing beyond reason. "I'm game then, as long as she is the one who ties me down or whatever," he breathed, glancing over to Mielikki.

With the zip on her coveralls all the way down, Lerrah moved forward to the other side of Dust. She pushed the top of the coverall off her shoulders so it would just hang at her waist. The sports top she wore hid her assets from the man's view, but it still gave a considerable amount of bare flesh for him to feast his eyes upon. "That sounds like a perfect plan," she said as she slipped one of the straps off her shoulder. "Go on, let's get him tied down so the fun can begin." She gave Mielikki a wink.

Grabbing Dust's wrist Mielikki gently guided him to the wall and wrapped the plastic cable snuggly around his wrist and then began to loop the plastic cable through a sturdy safety rail embedded in the wall.

"Does it have to be so tight?" Dust remarked, hissing. Silencing him Mielikki put a finger to his lips, shushing him. "No complaints or the game will end," she answered quietly. Taking his other wrist Mielikki coiled the plastic cable thrice around his other already bound hand and made several complex knots as Lerrah and Tasia worked their magic on him. "There we are."

The Veaseph stepped back to admire her handiwork and smiled coyly.

Lerrah leaned in and gave Mielikki a kiss on her cheek. "Excellent work," she said with a grin. With that, she moved in front of Dust, a seductive smile in place. She purred with delight as she then pushed his underpants down over his hips to pool down around his ankles. "Hello, Sailor,"she said as Dust was fully exposed to them. With an impish grin, she stepped back from him to stand closer to Mielikki. "Is that how they're all supposed to look?"

The Veaseph shrugged. "Only the humanoid males are supposed to look that way...at least I think they do...or most of them do...usually," she commented as her brow furrowed as though deep in thought. Yawning she then turned back to Lerrah.

"Who cares. I'm bored, I say we go shopping," she added as an afterthought.

Lerrah squinted. "It doesn't really do anything for me," she said. "I've had so little experience with men, and they weren't the best times. Well, shopping sounds good for me, though Ty will be very upset with us when he finds the present we're leaving for him. Oh, we have to go to that new boutique that just opened up next to the salon, right next to Mingo's."

"The one with those cute panties?" Tasia clapped her hands in glee. "I want ten pairs!"

"I've heard some of your guy friends referring to them as souvenirs," Lerrah said with a giggle. "So, how many does Walker have so far?"

Smiling enigmatically, Tasia drawled, "Not as many as he'd like, I'm sure."

"And definitely not as many as you'd like him to have," Lerrah teased. "Maybe I should get some too...just in case."

" 'Scuse me but what's the fraggin' hold up? You three aren't planning to just leave me hear are you?" Dust exclaimed, interrupting the girls' conversation. "Cuz if you are I have other plans for you...you!" He cursed in Huttesse under his breath as he struggled with his bindings; they held strong and refused to break.

Lerrah grinned at Dust as he struggled and moved to stand in front of him. She sensually pushed her coveralls down over her hips and let it slide all the way down to her feet. She stepped out of them, leaving herself in only her ankle-high boots and undergarments. With a seductive smile, she pushed her panties down over her hips and all the way down to the floor, then removed her top as well, leaving her completely naked in front of him. He was quiet now, and almost salivating. She picked them both up and approached him. Her hands went down to his erection, and when she stepped away her bra and panties were hanging from it. With a playful grin, she stepped back into her coveralls and pulled them back up. "A souvenir," she said.

Gathering his shed clothing from the ground, Tasia added, "As are these." She waved his underwear tauntingly before Dust. "I'm sure Lerrah's will fit you just fine."

Dust merely sat with his mouth agape. "If I ever get loose you three are dead!!"

"I hope I tied those knots well enough," Mielikki whispered to Lerrah.

"I'm sure you did," Lerrah whispered back. "But just in case, I think we should get out of here for that shopping." With that, she grabbed Mielikki's hand and raced toward the door with Tasia right behind her. "After we're done with our shopping and whatever, we really should send Ty a note...just in case."

"Tell him?" Tasia appeared affronted and insisted, "After all my planning, you want to ruin the surprise? Ty will get a kick out of this, I'm certain! I mean, a naked man strapped to his wall?" Her smirk conveyed self-satisfaction. "If I'm right and he really does have a thing for male genitals, he'll definitely thank us for this."

"Naked man tied to one of his workbenches you mean," Lerrah said. "And what do you suppose will happen to Ty if he lets him loose?"

Tasia shrugged and answered sweetly, "A mind-blowing orgasm?" Lerrah remained unimpressed, and Tasia sighed. "Alright...we'll tell him. But after we get far, far away, hm?"

"Better," Lerrah said. "While you might take advantage of a tied up man, I don't think Ty would. Which means, he'd let the guy go, the guy would promptly beat the stuffing out of Ty, steal his clothes, and come searching for us. And, I don't want to see Ty hurt."

"Ty can take care of himself," Tasia assured her. "He may be little, but the boy's got spunk." With Dust struggling madly in the room behind them, the three women sauntered happily down the corridor. Smiling across at Mielikki, Tasia said, "I hope you enjoyed your gift, dear."

"Gift? I only went along with this idea of yours in hopes that we could get rid of him!! I-I didn't think you would have us bring him here of all places!!" Mielikki spouted angrily in frustration. She turned her back to Tasia, and folded her arms over her breasts and huffed. What will Cirran think of me after all this? That I didn't wish to abandon my roots of being a pleasure slave at all? He'll probably hate me for it...and just after I thought I'd made a real friend.

Tasia chuckled gently. "What's all the fuss, Mielikki? He deserved it, didn't he? He was a jerk - I hope he's learned his lesson now."

"You could have dumped him anywhere but you chose a friend's home of all places!" She remarked, spinning on her heel so that she was toe-to-toe with Tasia. "I'm even willing to bet that if you were to try and seduce me, you'd take me to a crummy hole in the wall to try it!" She added, throwing her hands up in the air in frustration.

Sashaying nearer to Mielikki, her expression wholly lascivious, Tasia purred, "I'll gladly accept that challenge, my dear, but you already informed me I wasn't to try and seduce you, though I could, if I were allowed."

"I wouldn't let you, I'm not anyone's next quick fuck nor am I yours," the Veaseph answered her back, a tepid array of emotions gleamed in her eyes, ranging from anxiety, fear, and anger. "Go have your fun buying senseless items of clothing just don't follow me," she quipped, coldly. Stepping away from Tasia, she quickly turned and raced out the door as fast as she could, her dark hair whipping behind her.

"Well," Tasia humphed, "that's gratitude for you, I guess."

"You know she's not comfortable with you coming onto her," Lerrah said. "You shouldn't have pushed it. And, we didn't really solve her problem since that guy will get out of those binders. And when he does, he's going to try to make good on his threats. So, while it may have been fun to toy with him, I don't think he'll be toying with us when he gets free and comes after us." Lerrah started after their departing...friend? "Mielikki! Wait!"

She wasn't sure how far exactly she had ran. One thing she did know for certain was she had run until she was out of breath and was forced to stop, inhaling large gulps of air. Her heart pounded in her ears as she clutched the wall allowing herself to catch her breath. Beneath her the vast reaches of space danced before her eyes, the stars seemed strangely welcoming for a bizarre reason and the young spotted woman found herself studying them wonderlessly. She was in a view port of some kind, the floor here seemed different as though it were translucent? Mielikki hardly looked up acknowledging the sound of footsteps behind her.

"I'm sorry about Tasia," she said softly, not wanting to spoil the mood. "She can be trying at times. I'll talk to Rilanna about that guy. She'll listen, and when she knows what happened and what he was doing and that, she'll probably escort him off the station."

"You'll do that for me?" She asked, lifting her head up, Mielikki could feel her heart slowing but other questions still nagged her brain. "I hope Cirran doesn't find out about this, eh I mean...oh." Resting her head against the wall she heaved a sigh. "What would anyone think of me after what I--we did tonight?"

"We stood up for ourselves and turned the tables on that guy," Lerrah said. "Maybe it wasn't perfect, but in the end, maybe he'll think twice about doing that sort of thing again. In any case, at least you didn't get naked in front of him."

"Yeah I suppose you're right, I didn't quite work directly with him I just tied him up while you and Tasia did all the work." She chuckled wryly at her end remark, "If anything I just hope I never run into him again...or any others from my past like him..." A tap on the shoulder brought her out of her reverie and she looked up at Lerrah.

Lerrah gave her friend a smile. "So, you up for a trip of going and buying some new clothes?"

"Sure! If it helps get my mind off this, let's go shopping!!" Mielikki remarked cheerfully, feeling that perhaps going shopping with Lerrah wouldn't be such a bad idea after all and would help to ease the pains of the night past, one that would hopefully remain as such in her and Lerrah's past and not the future...

---

"Loyalty For Love"
By: Meer'esh
High Princess Yelara Zaneth

Location: High Princess' Personal Chambers - Royal Palace of Arcadia, Arcadia
Date: Selene 21, 5 ABY

***

He'd left her for no more than an hour and a half, and upon returning to her chambers, Meer'esh realized how grave an error that had been. The room was silent, save for the persistent beeping of the comm terminal...one Meer'esh had thought disabled. He suspected the reason it was now functioning. Seated in a chair and slumped over the unit was Yelara, pale and unconscious. Scattered atop the terminal's monitor were various rudimentary tools crafted from Yelara's personal belongings - hair pins, a stylus, a rewired vaporizing tooth cleaner that would have functioned as a sonic screwdriver to give access to the comm's internal circuitry; her tech abilities had resurfaced, it was clear now, and utilizing them, she had gotten a message to someone - the Jedi being his first guess, undoubtedly to warn them. That, however, was the least of his concerns.

Rushing to Yelara's side, a hand to her clammy brow drove a spike of fear through him, as did her failure to respond to his summons. He shook her frantically, yet went unnoticed by the insensate Yelara. Her head lolled back onto his forearm as he eased her into a sitting position, her own arms dangling limply at her sides; a glimmer of violet shone beneath her fluttering eyelids, the only sign of life Meer'esh could identify. It allayed fears that she had succumbed to her illness, but it was a fleeting reprieve, for her pale lips and laboured breathing warned that her life could be snuffed out at any time, and Meer'esh would have indirectly been the architect of her demise.

Her tall, but slender frame, was easily hefted from the chair into his cradling arms. Held close to his chest, Meer'esh's cadaverously purple lips brushed against Yelara's ashen brow; it was cold to the touch, yet warm perspiration leaked from its pores. With no knowledge of medicine, Meer'esh could not understand this contradiction, and used instinct to dictate his treatment of her symptoms. Tenderly laying her out across the bed, he drew the heavy blankets up to her chin to fend off the chill, and retrieved a cold compress for her brow to suppress her febrile sweat, though he knew not if either treatment would provide a remedy. And so he waited anxiously, his thin fingers clenched around her hand, while he watched Yelara's chest rise and fall with every wheezing breath, dreading that each would be her last.

Kneeling by her bedside until his legs went numb with discomfort, Meer'esh accepted the pain as his penance for reducing Yelara to such a state. He could not summon a physician - would not, for fear of his overlords was emotionally debilitating, and not even the sight of his beloved on the very brink of death could infuse him with courage. So craven was he that Meer'esh could not even bring himself to tell her the truth of his past, no matter how unlikely it was she could divulge his secret to another. It had been her wish on numerous occasions to gain insight into his background, to banish any remaining distance separating them from complete intimacy; now, when she was incapable of listening, did Meer'esh feel prepared to confess all to her, and a need to purge the guilt smothering his conscience.

As he began telling Yelara of his past, of the tortured path that had led him to that moment, tears spilled like sparkling droplets of crystal against his white cheeks; the release was so overwhelming, his body shook visibly. "I am being Chev and I...am far from my world," he whispered hoarsely. "It is not nice, Yelara...we were not being free, there. But I am also slaved, even though far from Vinsoth. I have no choice being here, doing this to you. My masters are being cruel, are scaring my people and will be killing us if we don't obey." He lowered his silver-haired head, cowed by the horrific, violent memories that plagued him. "I have not been having a friend, until you, Yelara - we are not being allowed, and are not wanting to, if we could. They do not feed us well, treat us as creatures...many are dying and you learn it is best not to be knowing anyone at all, if you are not wanting to suffer more grief. And if you are wanting to live," he added, "you must be doing what is told of you. That is why I am doing this thing, Yelara - I am not wanting to, but my masters are. I cannot be running or I will be found. They are knowing everything...they are watching always."

Voice growing thick with emotion, Meer'esh struggled to continue, but persevered, owing it to Yelara to confess the reason for his mistreatment of her. "I am only wanting to be free...but they are not being trusted. If I do this thing for them, they said they would be giving me that...if I am allowing them to take the palace, I would be a free man and we could be together, Yelara. I am having to try. What else am I having but you? I am apologetic," he choked out, failing to mask a sob.

His unsteady hand stroked Yelara's delicate cheek. Now, it burned to the touch and her eyelids were fluttering as they struggled to pull back. Through the haze of tears, Meer'esh didn't see her lips moving, so it was an even greater surprise when her weak, reedy voice registered in his perception. He heard it, amid the mumbles, the whimpers... "Thank you."

Stunned silence. After all he had done, she was thanking him. Meer'esh shook his head vigorously. "Why? I have been so evil to you. Do not say that."

Her eyes opened a crack and her lips twitched with an unformed smile. "For...telling me," Yelara sighed. "Thank you...." Then she was unconscious again, making not another sound or movement, save for the rise and fall of her chest.

He had not thought it possible, but Meer'esh's disgrace was magnified by Yelara's benevolence and mercy. As terribly as he had treated her, she chose not to hold a grudge. Yet still he was allowing her to perish. But he wouldn't, not any longer, no matter the risk to his own life. Briefly, gingerly kissing her cheek Meer'esh pushed himself upright and determined to carry out the ploy he had been planning for some time now, for a day when he would recover his courage.

Today, Yelara's tenacity in fighting her impending death gave Meer'esh a level of bravery to aspire to. He now had no reason to hesitate. Yelara would be free of her prison, he would see to that, and if his treachery wasn't discovered and Meer'esh survived, he would seek her out one day. If that time came, he hoped she could love him, but if not, he would settle, at least, for her forgiveness.

---

"On Second Thought..."
By: Raeila Selrid
Tralesha Zibel
Dani
Ferrig Mullerin

Location: Thanatos
Date: Selene 21, 5 ABY

***

The bed was horribly uncomfortable. She had been placed in the center of the bed. Her arms were pulled up above her head, each wrist in cuffs secured to the bedposts. The same had been done for her legs. She had been denied clothing or bedding after being told that she was not grateful enough for them. She couldn't tell how much time had passed, but she did know that she was too hot, too hungry, and very very thirsty. Her throat seemed to burn in longing as a tear trickled from her eye and into the mattress beneath her.

How could he love her and treat her this way? How could he be what he said he was, and confine her like this, bind her like this? She knew she was right to leave him, but she should have been more wary. She didn't expect him to find her, but somehow he'd managed. She'd felt the blaster as it pressed into the small of her back entering her new apartment. At first, she thought it was a mugging, but then she'd turned and seen his face.

She'd had no choice. It reminded her so much of when her father had had her abducted. And, now here she was again, a prisoner once more, but this was so much worse.

She wanted to curse herself for her stupidity, but the gag that kept her quiet would only muffle her frustration. She squeezed her eyes shut and wished she could just die. But, she couldn't. Not with the baby. And she'd never given up without a fight before, and she wasn't going to let the bastard win. She'd find a way to hurt Ferrig Mullerin. Tralesha Zibel wasn't weak, and didn't cower for anyone.

Her body made a liar of her as the sound of the door opening sent a shiver of fear through her. She heard herself whimper as the door pushed wider open.

The footsteps entering the room weren't heavy, however, and produced the distinct sound of bare flesh pattering against hard flooring. The door had closed again, signalled by the creak of old-style hinges, and when the figure reached the bedside only the outline of shoulder-length hair brought her consolation. Although the thin frame and height were nearly the same, the person standing over her was not Ferrig. The shadowed figure sat on the edge of the mattress and lowered its face towards hers, revealing her visitor's identity. Tralesha's gag was removed. "Hello, Tralesha," Raeila Selrid whispered. "Are you comfy?"

"No," Tralesha whispered back. "I'm not. This...it's...how can he...and this... The binders, they hurt..."

"I could loosen them," she offered. "Just...promise you won't try to slip free. You...you should stay, Tralesha. I really would like it if you did."

"Will I have to stay bound like this," Tralesha asked. "He...he talked about bringing others to me, to share me with them. I know we were never close, Raeila, but I did always like you. I do like you."

"I like you too," she insisted, laying a hand on Tralesha's shoulder. "I don't think he should let the others have you - you could be hurt." Eyes drawn to Tralesha's stomach, entranced by visions of holding the baby within and calling it her own, Raeila whispered, "The baby could be hurt...and that wouldn't be good."

"I...I never expected...it was a surprise," Tralesha said. "I only just found out a couple days ago. I went to the medical clinic...and the doctor, he told me. And, then Ferrig...he came and...I don't know how he knew, but he did."

"He's the father. He should know. And he'll love the baby, Tralesha. You don't have to be afraid. I mean" --she swivelled her gaze to Tralesha's face, eyes hopeful and pleading-- "I could help raise the baby. Let me help you."

"I'd like that, Raeila," Tralesha said. "But...but not Ferrig. He's...he's cruel. I don't want him to...to... But...but you're loving and caring, you and Kael would love the baby very much, I know."

Raeila blinked rapidly as tears swelled in her eyes. Everything was falling into place. "You...you'll let me have your baby?" she whispered. "We'll treat him or her like our own. You won't have to worry for one minute!"

Tears filled her own eyes as Tralesha smiled at Raeila. "I've...I've never pictured myself as...as a mother, but...but can I visit?"

She giggled gently. "Of course." With a squeal of sheer joy, Raeila flung herself across Tralesha's torso in an embrace. "Of course! It'll be wonderful and amazing!"

"I can't believe I let Ferrig fool me...but...but it's working out for the best, I think. He was always talking about how much you wanted a baby, and how sad you were. I'm glad I can make you happy, Raeila. After my family, I was always scared to have a baby in case...well, in case things just turned out the same. But you and Kael, you're good...and you'll be a wonderful family. Kael won't be like my father, won't try to...won't... He's a good man, and he wouldn't try to...to fuck his daughter. I'm happy that you and Kael will be good parents, Rae. I know the baby will be safe and happy with you."

Her smile was replete with joy and frenzied anticipation. Kissing Tralesha's cheek excitedly, Raeila giggled and sat up to begin loosening her wrist restraints. "You can help us name it, if you want. I was thinking Danesta for a girl, and Lohgan for a boy. Those are good names, right?"

Tralesha smiled and nodded. "I like them very much," she said. As the first restraint loosened, she tried moving her hand and wrist to get her circulation going again. "Oh, thank you."

Raeila smiled bashfully, and reached over to loosen the other hand. "Are you hungry, Tralesha? You should eat...for our baby."

"No real food," Tralesha answered. "Ferrig, he just made me suck him, and said that was my lunch. He said I could have some more later."

Her movements halted, Raeila troubled by the revelation. "He shouldn't do that," she said deathly serious. "That isn't nice. I don't think the baby would like it either. He won't do it again, Tralesha. I promise."

"Thank you," Tralesha said with a grateful smile. "I'm very glad you came to see me. I don't feel so bad now."

"I'll make sure you're okay," she promised fervently. Rising from the bed, Raeila told her, "I'll get you some food. You and the baby must be starving. What's your favourite?"

"I don't really know," Tralesha said with a frown. "I've never really taken time to enjoy food. It was mainly just...food to stay alive. But...that thing that Orn made with the noodles, I did really like that."

Raeila frowned pensively, then gasped as the dish's identity came to mind. "I hope we have all the ingredients. I'll do the best I can." Smiling fondly at Tralesha, Raeila leaned forward and kissed her cheek. "You have no idea how special you are, Tralesha. I'll repay you however I can."

"Do I have to stay tied up," Tralesha asked. "I know you love the desert, but wouldn't the baby and I, wouldn't we be safer farther from Ferrig?"

"He won't hurt you," Raeila insisted. "He knows I'll be very mad if he jeopardizes the baby. You'll be safe, Tralesha. Don't be afraid."

"If you're here with me, Rae, I won't run away," Tralesha said. "As long as I'm safe from him, I won't try to leave. You should be close for the baby, and I wouldn't deprive you of that. Do I still have to stay tied up?"

The indecision was clear on Raeila's troubled face. Tralesha's importunities were beginning to tug at her conscience. "I-I don't know," she whispered. "If you run away, Tralesha, I'll be devastated. My baby...."

"I hate Ferrig," Tralesha said, "but you're my friend, the mother for the baby I'm carrying. I would never hurt you that way, Raeila." The truth was in her eyes as she strained to plead her case to her friend. "I promise, Rae, I won't do anything that you don't want me to."

"You won't run?" she asked dubiously. "You won't?"

"I promise I won't run," Tralesha said earnestly. "I'll stay here with you the whole time, until the baby comes, and for as long as you want me here after. Keep me naked if you want, make me stay within sight of you at all times if you want, but please don't keep me like this. I promise I won't run."

Raeila stared down at her feet, silently deliberating. Her worst fear was losing Tralesha before the baby was born, losing her opportunity to finally give Kael a child. But Tralesha needed to remain healthy and happy to successfully carry. Confusion reigned on Raeila's countenance as she apprehensively nodded her head. "I'll let you stretch for a while," she murmured, and unlaced the rope from around Tralesha's wrist. "I'll find you some clothes. You...you can't get sick."

"Thank you," Tralesha said with a smile. "You'll see, Raeila. I'll be very good. I'll be your friend, and I'll take really good care of the baby for you. I don't want to give you any reason to doubt me."

"Then don't," Raeila answered flatly, her grey eyes chilly and hardened. "Don't betray me, Tralesha. Don't do it."

Something changed in Tralesha's expression and a hint of anger flashed across her face. "I said I wouldn't," she said. "I don't know what type of people you're used to dealing with, but I don't break my word. I said I'm not going to betray you, and you can be assured that I will not. You can count on me. Always."

Raeila's smile was without warmth as she tugged harshly on the last knot, freeing Tralesha's second hand. "Prove it," Raeila challenged. "Get up and prove what you say."

Tralesha rubbed her wrist as she sat up on the bed. "How do I prove it to you?"

"Don't run," Raeila answered impassively. "And don't scream when Ferrig comes for you in the night. No one can know you're here. They...they might tell."

"I won't scream and I won't run," Tralesha said. She reached out and took Raeila's hand, then pressed it against her abdomen and smiled up into Rae's eyes. "Your baby."

Her severe expression softened and Raeila's adoring smile returned. "My baby," she whispered. In that moment, her mind was decided. Helping Tralesha sit up, Raeila said warmly, "There are clothes in the drawer. They're Ferrig's, but they'll fit. I'll get your food prepared - a big heaping bowl!"

"Okay," Tralesha said with a grin. "Once I'm dressed, can I come down and help you? I don't really know my way around a kitchen, but I've made a few meals that no one died from before."

Raeila giggled and hurried to untie Tralesha's ankles. "This is going to be so much fun. We could be the best of friends, Tralesha...if you want."

"I'd like that," Tralesha said, wondering what it would be like to actually have someone who was a friend again. Raxis had been, but she wasn't sure of the others. Shaza could have been, but their lives had spun off in different directions. But here, as she carried the baby, living with Raeila, could she have a friend again, someone to be close to, and talk to. She bit her lip. "I'd like it very much, Raeila, but...is it possible to get a message to Orinth. He's going to be very worried, and...and he's been through so much. He's such a wonderful man, he doesn't deserve that pain, especially when Yelara barely remembers him. It felt like having a real father." She smiled and laughed. "I bet he'd love you too."

"I don't need a father," Raeila rasped. "They think they can do what they want to you, they think they're allowed to." She spun away from Tralesha and stalked to the door. "No one knows you're here, and we're keeping it that way. Not another word about this!"

"Orinth's different," Tralesha murmured. "I should know." She sighed. "So I'm just your prisoner. I want to be your friend, Raeila, but...do you really want me as a friend?"

"What I want is for you to stop trying to confuse me!" Raeila swung towards Tralesha, her eyes ablaze and wild. "I don't want my baby living in fear. I had a father once, and he was a bad person! You want this Orinth man to do the same to me...to my baby?!"

"I had a father once too," Tralesha said. "I ran away when I finally couldn't take him coming into my room anymore. Orinth is a good man, and he hasn't tried to touch me. We don't have to go to him, you don't have to see him. I just...I want to be your friend, Raeila."

"Then stop trying so hard," she hissed. "Just...spend time with me, and talk to me. That's the only type of friend I need."

"Okay," Tralesha said. "I'll find some clothes and come down...and try to be a better friend."

Raeila sighed with relief. "Thank you," she whispered. "I was beginning to think I'd have to tie you up again." A jovial wave and Raeila pranced down the hallway to prepare their meal.

Tralesha couldn't help frowning as she went over to inspect the drawer for clothing. There was little in there that would fit her well. She was fairly certain none of Ferrig's pants would fit, so she grabbed one of his shirts and pulled it over her head. The fabric stretched tight over her ample bosom, but fell to the middle of her thighs.

With a sigh, she started downstairs to find Rae.

She was greeted by an airy, lilting tune and a clatter of cooking pots as Raeila frolicked about the kitchen, attempting to replicate Orn's signature dish: Hojet, extra spicy. In the midst of a twirl, Raeila giggled and waved at Tralesha as she appeared in the doorway. "Come on in! You can watch!"

Tralesha grinned, relieved that Raeila's mood had lightened. "I couldn't find much more than this," she said. "At least the weather is warm enough for it." She climbed up onto one of the stools situated in the corner of the kitchen to observe Raeila's culinary mastery.

"We could always go and get your old clothes, or find you some new ones," Raeila offered. "Would you like that?"

"I would," Tralesha said. "I'm going to be starting to show soon, so I'll need some clothes for expectant mothers."

Raeila was beaming. "How far along are you? How soon can I have my baby?"

"I think I'm two months along," Raeila said. "The doctor, he indicated that sounded right, but would have more information after the test results came back."

"Test results?" Raeila stopped and watched Tralesha worriedly. "You are pregnant, aren't you? You're certain?"

"Absolutely," Tralesha said. "But I wasn't sure when, and the doctor did a test to find out for sure. They can actually test that at the medical clinic." She turned herself to the side and placed a hand on her belly. "You can sort of see, but I guess you'd have to know what I looked like before."

Squinting, Raeila said, "Yeah...you can see it. But you still look great, Tralesha." Returning to chopping the vegetables for her dish, Raeila added brightly, "Though with as much as I'm going to feed you, you'll plump up real nicely!"

Tralesha laughed.

The joy was short-lived, however, and before she could respond, she felt a heavy hand on her shoulder. "Seems I'm missing all the amusement," Ferrig Mullerin said, though there was no hint of amusement in his voice. "And, I'll need that shirt back, Tralesha. Now. I don't seem to recall telling you you could get dressed, especially in my clothes."

She wasn't certain what to do, but the way his hand dug into her shoulder made her move quickly to get out of the shirt.

"There, that's perfect," Ferrig said as he slipped into his shirt. "It's a shame to cover that beautiful figure, and hide Raeila's growing baby there. Look at those tits, Rae. She has perfect tits for milk for your baby. Perfect."

"Ferrig, she'll get cold!" Raeila protested. "Give it back to her!"

"We live in a desert, Rae," Ferrig responded. "It's warm here. And besides, this way it's easier to shower her with the love and affection she deserves for carrying your baby for you." As his hand cupped one of Tralesha's breasts, he leaned in and gave her a kiss. "This is natural, Rae, how she is now. And, do you really want to smother your baby like that?"

Raeila frowned into the bowl she was filling with ingredients and murmured, "Of course not. But...we have to treat her well, Ferrig. We can't let her be unhappy for even one second."

"Well, of course not," Ferrig said. "So, I guess it's good you untied her. I'll certainly do my best to keep her happy. And, hey, how about we let Dani be with her an hour a day...you know happy Dani can make people."

"No," Raeila snapped. "Tralesha decides who she wants to be with, and if she has a problem being with anyone, them I have a problem, too. She's precious to me, Ferrig, and you won't ruin this!"

"I'm not going to ruin anything," Ferrig said with a roll of his eyes. "You still want me, don't you, babe?"

"No," Tralesha said. "No, I don't. And, I don't want to be naked all the time. I just want to be here for Raeila. I just wish you'd leave, Ferrig. That would make me happy."

"You insolent bitch," Ferrig snarled. "That's it, you're getting strapped back to the bed!"

"She is not!" Raeila growled, rushing forward to stand between Ferrig and Tralesha. They stood with faces nearly touching and Raeila gripping his shirt menacingly. "You'll leave her alone, Ferrig, or I won't be pleased."

"Yeah, and I'm sure Kael would not be pleased at what we were doing with Dani earlier," Ferrig snapped back. "Looks like no one is going to be pleased tonight. I brought her here, and she's mine. I get to do with her what I want, and if I decide you get her baby, then you do. Not before!"

"It's my baby!" she shrieked. "You don't have the right, Ferrig!"

"I'm the one who made it with her, Rae," Ferrig said with a laugh. "It will be your baby, but the bitch is mine to do with as I want! Not yours! You'll get your baby! I'll make sure you always have lots of babies! But Tralesha is mine!"

She shoved Ferrig against the table and lunged at him again, this time sending an open palm across his cheek. "You'll have her after the baby's born, not before...or I'll never forgive you, Ferrig. Never!"

"What's going on here," a new voice in the tussle asked. Dani stood in the doorway, a towel wrapped around her purple form. "And if you keep all that shouting up, we're going to draw some unwanted attention."

"Keep your yap shut, bitch," Ferrig snarled at her, "or I'll make sure you get some unwanted attention by the wetter authorities. Nice reward listed for your pretty ass, and I'm sure that would go a long way to decorating the baby's nursery."

"Leave her alone!" Raeila grabbed his chin and wrenched his face away from Dani's direction and towards her face. "Stop being a bully, Ferrig. Dani was nice to you last night, so don't treat her like dirt, and the same goes for Tralesha. Stop being a creep!"

"Stop telling me what to do," Ferrig snarled. "You've gone soft. A year ago, before Kael took you away and made you think about babies and all that you would have been helping me strap Tralesha down. And, now? A year ago, you would have supported me no matter what."

"I would support you if you'd listen to me," she countered. "You used to listen to what I had to say. Now...you're a tyrant, Ferrig! You want everything for yourself, the way you want. You don't care what I have to say!"

"Lately, you don't care about anything except getting yourself a baby," Ferrig said. "Rae, Pack and Yannick want to support me as King of the Desert. I want you to be my queen, Raeila. We can finally rule the desert together."

Her rage subsided, replaced by astonishment. Raeila's grip on her brother's shirt loosened as she searched his eyes dumbfoundedly. "They...do?" she breathed. "But...what about Kael?"

"Kael's a Jedi now," Ferrig said with a shrug. "The affairs of the desert no longer concern him. He's not strong enough for this place now. His focus is too...wet."

"But he loves me," she insisted. "And I love him. How can we just leave him behind?"

"The same way he left us behind to go off to be a Jedi," Ferrig said with another shrug.

"But what Kael is doing is good, for all people," Dani said, breaking the spell Ferrig had been weaving. "It's good for all people, not just one group. And he's also focusing on a way so Raeila can have her own babies and not have to rely on surrogates for them."

"She's right," Raeila admitted softly. "If you wait until he comes back, you two can talk about things. He can explain how things in the desert are better as they are now. Don't ruin things here. Please..."

"I'm going to make them better," Ferrig said. "As we've always dreamed them to be. And bowing to no one."

"Ferrig, a unified planet, after all that's happened, is better for all, and Thanatos and the other desert settlements can send representatives to Arcadia to make our voices heard."

"Our voices?" Ferrig sputtered incredulously. "You're a wetter alien. You have no room to talk."

"Really," Dani asked with an arched eyebrow. "Should we ask Pack and Yannick about that? I willingly went through their ceremony. I am Kir'Thana."

Ferrig shook his head. "You either are or aren't," he snarled. "You can't become Kir'Thana."

"Maybe," Tralesha said, "the ceremony is just to prove you are, not to become anything different."

"No one asked you," Ferrig snapped.

"No one had to," Dani said. "And, Ferrig, from what I'm seeing here, Tralesha is far more Kir'Thana than you'll ever be."

"She's...right," Raeila concurred in a small voice. "You want to rule the desert, not make it better for our people. You want domination, not unification. You'll be no better than a dictator, Ferrig. Please don't do this."

"As someone who's been there, it's very true," Dani added gently. "The people of the desert have suffered enough. They don't need a tyrant."

Ferrig sighed and turned away. "I need to go over to the Feltrey house," he said. "I need to clear my head. I'll be back later."

"No." Raeila took her brother's hand and tugged on it gently to gain his attention. She smiled tenderly when he looked her way. "I'm coming with you. We need to talk about this...and I don't want you storming off alone. Who knows what you'll do."

"We can't just leave Tralesha here," Ferrig said. "She'll escape."

"She's no longer your prisoner, Ferrig," Dani said. "And she will not be mistreated. I give her my protection, and I do hope you know what that means." She reached out and took Tralesha's hand into her own. "You two go, Raeila will make sure you don't do anything else stupid, and I'm going to take Tralesha out and get her some clothing." She turned to Rae. "I'll have my comlink, if you need to get ahold of me. We'll be back as soon as we have a suitable wardrobe for her." She took Rae's hand with her other hand. "And tonight, we need to do something special together, all three of us. I'll bring back some things, and I think the bath upstairs is big enough for the three of us. I can't wait to try out those jets."

"Me too," Raeila replied, smiling ardently. "We shouldn't be long. Come on, Ferrig. The boys will be waiting."

"Of course," Ferrig said with a sigh. "Can't keep them waiting. It'll be just like old times."

"It will be," she assured him. "Trust me, it'll be fun." And waving back at Tralesha and Dani, Raeila escorted Ferrig out of the kitchen, giving them a chance to mend their shaky relationship.

As Raeila and Ferrig went their way, Dani led Tralesha upstairs grab a cloak to cover her while they went in search of clothing. It was certainly proving to be an interesting day, but Dani hoped it didn't get too much more so.

---

"Outdated"
By: Yara Zaneth
Va'Lesh Zaneth

Location: Palace of Arcadia, Arcadia
Date: Selene 21, 5 ABY

***

Yara and Va'Lesh both remained puzzled as they started back from Yelara's private chambers. They had been barred access to their High Princess, and Va'Lesh's mother, despite a valid appointment made days ago. More perplexing was how the message had been relayed - not by Yelara herself, but the pale man constantly hovering about Va'Lesh's mother. His presence was unsettling through the Force; Yara didn't trust him in the least.

"It would seem, Va'Lesh," Yara informed him thoughtfully, "that your mother is always unwell when we wish to meet with her. Does that man not think her constitution would be much improved by a visit from familiar faces?"

"It may be uncharitable for me to say," Va'Lesh said, "but I believe he feels that perhaps a familiar face might steal some of the attention he craves from Mother. Something is wrong with that man, but I have no way to prove such. I do wish Father would return. I am certain he would be able to get in to see Mother, and then he could straighten everything out." He cast a glance back toward Yelara's private chamber, as if he could see through the walls to the man who guarded the door like a wengabeast standing over a bone.

"Perhaps," Yara suggested, "we should force our way in. We are here to ensure the High Princess' safety is not threatened. I believe this would qualify."

"I believe you are right," Va'Lesh stated. "Let us return and demand that we be allowed to see the High Princess to ensure that she is safe. It would be a dereliction of duty not to do so."

"It would." They had just exited Yelara's private hall and halted, meaning to turn about and return to Va'Lesh's mother. Yara, however, paused to glance up and down the corridor. "Va'Lesh," she observed curiously, "where have all our brothers and sisters gone? Are they not supposed to guard this door?"

"It is my hope that this too is not because of that man," Va'Lesh said as he frowned at the emptiness of the hall. "There is something very out of place, and we must determine what it is." He turned to stare back the way they had come. If the man had sacrificed Mother's security for his own personal needs, it would be a necessity to remove the man from his position.

They turned back into the royal hall, Yelara's chambers sitting at the far end of the column-lined walkway; the farther they strode, the greater their sense of foreboding. Yara and Va'Lesh stopped, halfway to Yelara's door, and seconds before the rear doors opened. A wave of alarm swept through the Force, alerting the two clones to danger. Both swivelled in unison to face a squad of troops in gray armour, none of them bearing their cloned genes. All of them were brandishing blaster rifles. Yara frowned. "I do not believe, Va'Lesh, that we are going to speak with your mother today."

"You appear to be correct, Yara," he said. He stepped forward. "What is happening? Why have you turned your weapons upon us and what has become of the true palace guard?"

None of the troops made a sound as one who wore a shoulder patch that indicated he held the highest rank among them. "You are hereby ordered to surrender your weapons and turn yourselves in peacefully for processing as traitors to the throne. Any sign of using the Force will be considered an aggressive action, under which conditions we are authorized to utilize any force necessary to neutralize you."

"By whose command?" Yara challenged.

"By order of the High Princess herself," the man stated. "If you wish to view the orders yourself, I can make them available, but you will need to come with us."

"And where do you intend to take us?" she inquired. "Where have you taken our brothers and sisters?"

"They are being held in one of the old barracks, which is where you will be held until we receive further orders."

Va'Lesh frowned, and looked aside at Yara. "I do not believe the orders came from Mother," he said.

"I am certain they did not," Yara agreed. "The pale man no doubt has some hand in this. Shall we defy orders and attempt an escape, Va'Lesh?"

"It is an intriguing option," Va'Lesh said thoughtfully. "However, we must still abide the laws that are set. We have no proof that Mother did not issue these orders, therefore, until such can be proven they should be considered legitimate. I believe the correct course of action would be to surrender ourselves to these men as they have demanded. It is the lawful thing to do."

Yara considered their deeply ingrained programming, one that compelled them to obey by setting aside all personal judgement, and all notions of right and wrong. Yara knew this was one instance where her instincts willed her to rebel and disregard her orders. "Va'Lesh...I do not believe they intend to treat us kindly. We must flee and find Master Zaneth."

"But what of our brothers and sisters, Yara," Va'Lesh asked. "They do not deserve to be treated unkindly by these people. Perhaps we can find some way to comfort them in this situation."

"They are soldiers," she reminded him, "they do not require comforting." Pausing in thought, Yara then added, "But they may need someone to assist them in escaping."

Va'Lesh smiled. "Exactly as I had been thinking," he said.

Still functioning on the same wavelength, Yara and Va'Lesh simultaneously raised their arms above their heads. "We surrender," Yara informed them flatly. "You will find a lightsaber clipped to our belts, beneath our cloaks. Would you like us to remove them?"

"Slowly," the officer said and nodded to his men, who all raised their weapons in a more diligent stance.

Yara and Va'Lesh shared amused smiles as they kept their hands raised, while their lightsabers drifted free of their belts and towards the commander. Their display of Jedi prowess seemed to unsettle some in the squad, who shifted restively and tightened their grip on their weapons. Both lightsabers were deposited gently at the commander's feet. "Do you wish to bind our wrists, now?" Yara asked, her smile remaining.

"Get the binders," the officer said. "Restrain both." He motioned one of his subordinates forward to carry out the task.

Yara and Va'Lesh put up no struggle, turning over their wrists to be fettered. As they were ushered out of the royal hall, and through the deserted corridors, Yara told Va'Lesh softly, "I wonder if my sisters will miss me."

"I know I will miss my brother," Va'Lesh said softly. "I expect they will miss us as well. We will see them again, however."

Yara was hesitantly optimistic, preferring to focus on their present status and not what might become of them once they left the palace. The squad of soldiers immured them as they were conveyed through the palace's corridors, which were devoid of anyone but those wearing armour identical to those surrounding them now. It was clear the clones had easily been replaced, and they suspected Yelara's aide had seen to that.

By cover of darkness, they were ushered outside the palace walls, into a waiting armoured transport, five guards following them inside. From that point on, the outside world was concealed from Yara and Va'Lesh, and as the vehicle sped off, so too were they leaving behind the palace and Va'Lesh's mother.

Yara looked aside at Va'Lesh, and suspecting he required some reassurance, himself, she told him, "Your mother will be fine, I believe. We will rescue her from that place, once we are free."

Va'Lesh gave a nod of assent. "Her failing health concerns me," he said. "I do not believe she accepts me as her son, but I cannot forget she is my mother." He closed his eyes briefly. "We will also have to ensure the safety of my little brother. He is too young to understand all of this. We will need to protect him." He gave her a look that clearly revealed his resolve. "Once we are free."

And they would be, for they were Jedi and they believed in their course of action, felt it would most effectively maintain balance within the Force. If their lives were to be sacrificed, neither Yara nor Va'Lesh would hesitate, for even in death perhaps they could effect change, as Liam had told them of those Jedi who had, in death, ascended to a state of unity with the Force. Through this, they could free Va'lesh's mother; as long as the universe existed, so would the Force, and so would their chances of freedom...in one form or another.

---

"Casing the Joint"

by Liam Zaneth, Jedi Master
and Kaylee Soras, Kitari Huntress

Location: Arcadia, Tae'Karada
Date: 21 Selene, 5ABY

***

As they approached the Palace, Liam Zaneth had pulled his hood up to cover his face. While the cloak and hood may mark him as Jedi, at least it would grant him a little anonymity before he confronted whatever forces at the Palace stood against him. Kaylee strode along at his side, head held high with her bow slung across her back and leather animalskins barely covering her flesh. With Dargus gone, he was glad to have her there, able to watch his back. The way she would look at him, however, made him uncomfortable. It reminded him of how Shaza had looked at him. There was a boldness in her gaze, and a gaze that was as plain as the blue markings she'd made on her face.

"We are being followed," Kaylee said as the reached the outer ring that led up to the Palace gates. It would only be another five blocks now.

Liam chanced a look back. He saw about six men, armed with energy weapons. Their intentions were uncertain, and he couldn't tell if they were just shadowing his advance to the Temple, or if they intended to attack. "We move on to the gates."

She smiled a smile that said more than he wanted to see in it. "Of course, Liam."

They were only a block from the Palace when Liam sensed the danger, an urgency coming from the rear. Without thinking, he turned, lightsaber out to defend himself. As blaster bolt was about to slam into his chest, a cobalt blade snapped up and caught it before it could do harm.

"Behind me," Liam called, as he moved his weapon to sweep over the rest of the attacks as they came in. Kaylee wasted no time moving behind him, though perhaps a little closer than Liam would have liked. He put her closeness out of his mind, and concentrated on the blaster fire still trying to cut them down.

As quickly as they'd started, they stopped. It was then that Liam could see their plan clearly. With only a block to the palace, he knew he was well within view of the sentries posted there, and they would surely have seen his lightsaber work protecting himself and Kaylee from their attackers. Their only purpose was to out him as a Jedi before the guards he was about to try to slip past.

"Damn," he murmured as the attackers slipped out of view. "Things just got a little more dangerous."

"There was no choice," Kaylee said. "You had to use your weapon or they would have killed us both. Do you wish to continue on?"

Liam reached behind him and removed her hand from his buttock, and couldn't miss the hint of a smile on her lips as she took a step back. "Yes," he said. "We need to continue on, and see what the situation is at the gates. After we're done here, I'll need to acquire different clothing. Considering how distinctive your outfit is, you should probably do the same."

Kaylee nodded. "A wise precaution."

With that, Liam started toward the Palace once more with Kaylee falling into step beside him.

The Palace gates rose above them, and it wasn't long before the guards outside the gates, and atop the walls were visible. Their weapons were trained on him, and he knew they knew what he was.

One of the guards had officer's stripes marking the shoulders of his armour, and she stepped forward and raised a hand for them to stop. Liam did.

"I am here to see High Princess Yelara Neerou," he called. Inside he was coiled and ready to spring into action, but outwardly he projected the calm serenity typical of the Jedi. "I am Jedi Master Liam Zaneth."

"The High Princess does not take unscheduled visitors," he was informed rudely, "especially not from traitors. Throw down your weapon, Jedi, and we can apprehend you without incident!"

"I'm afraid I cannot let you arrest me today," Liam said. "If the High Princess will not see me, inform her that I did come by. There is a traitor, but it's the person responsible for pushing this agenda through. This is not the High Princesses' work."

"We only take our orders from the High Princess. Now will you surrender or not, Jedi?"

"No, I'm not going to surrender," Liam said. "I'm going to walk away from here now, and I'd advise that you just keep watching your gate, and not try to arrest me. That would be very unwise."

His smile was jeering. " 'Unwise' would be turning your back on me, Jedi." Then, the soldier raised his arm, signalling his men to fire on his mark. "Last chance, traitor."

"Kaylee?"

"Right behind you, Liam," she said. The flirtatious tone was gone, replaced by a seriousness Liam hadn't seen since the young woman saved them from the aliens just after Dargus had been stabbed.

"You're all fools," Liam called to the guards on the gate. "Every one of you!"

"No, Jedi," he countered, "we're merely following orders. You wouldn't understand that, but it's called 'loyalty.'" Then, he dropped his arm.

Liam had no chance to respond. As the first blaster bolt left its weapon, his lightsaber was out and in his hand. Before the first could hit, his lightsaber was ignited and in its path. The charged bolt was deflected off harmlessly into the ground. It turned into a dance as he blocked each of the blasts coming at him and Kaylee, all while backing away from the gate. From behind him, Kaylee was firing arrows from the quiver at her hip. At first, he feared she'd be killing the guards. While they were fools, they were still people, and blindly following irrational orders was not yet a reason to die. As one of the guards let out a yowl, Liam saw that the weapon and hand he'd been firing with, were a gummy mass of goo. Liam wanted to laugh, but refrained. He didn't want to think about what Kaylee would do if she thought he were pleased with her cleverness.

More sentries were called into position as more and more of those currently firing had their weapons disabled by Kaylee's arrows. The officer had pulled himself off to the side and was hollering into his comm device. It was clear in moments that he had not been calling for reinforcements to defend the courtyard; armed soldiers were marching from the side of the palace walls, their course set for Liam and Kaylee.

The two continued to back off, though their defense was hindering the pace of their retreat.

"I'm almost out of glop arrows," Kaylee said as they reached a corner.

Liam glanced to the side. "Break left, it'll give us a few moments to get some distance. We need to find a place to lose them, and then we need new clothing. Go!"

As one, they leapt aside, hurrying down the side street and using the buildings as cover from the Palace troops. They did gain some distance, but too soon the sounds of the troops could be heard rushing around the corner at them.

"Faster," Kaylee called, and even as the blaster bolts came on, they turned and raced ahead. It was a surprise to Liam to see the woman keeping pace with him. He leapt upward. She followed. And they were racing across the rooftops, gaining distance on the troops that followed.

"There," Kaylee whispered, and pointed to a small clothing shop.

Liam checked the street and nodded. They jumped down from the rooftop, and made their way cautiously across the street. As they reached the door, Kaylee took his hand. His eyes went wide and he looked at her.

"Better to be a couple looking to buy clothes, than a Jedi Knight and Kitari Huntress," she whispered.

Liam nodded and allowed her, against his better judgement, to move in closer.

Within the shop, they managed to find suitable clothing. Liam entered a changing room. Kaylee slipped through the door behind him.

"You can't be in here, Kaylee," he rasped. "This isn't proper. I'm married, I have a wife and son...you can't be...we can't be... You are very attractive, but I am already very committed to another."

"I'm sorry, Liam," she whispered. "Where I am from, people are much more bold and open about their attrractions. Men and women do pair for procreation, but we don't have such structured and restrictive relationships. I will try to be less bold."

"What about jealousy?" Liam asked. "Don't your people...want to be committed, or feel slighted when the one you love wants to be with another other than you?"

"We do, and can, and many commit themselves to another, one they love," she answered as she began stripping out of her leathers. Liam's eyes nearly fell out of his head, but he managed to compose himself. "But that doesn't stop us from being with those our hearts lead us to as well, or our partners' hearts. We are open and honest with each other, and because it is accepted as the way it is, few have trouble with it. Believe me, Liam, if your planet's people accepted being able to lie with whomever you desired, you wouldn't be so...tensed up right now."

She dropped the last sandal to the floor and Liam had to look away. She pulled a wet cloth from a pack and began to remove the blue markings that covered her body. As she did, he turned away and began to change out of his robes.

Liam had dressed himself in all black. Black trousers with a blue stripe running the length tucked into a pair of black boots. A black shirt buttoned to the side worn under a black jacket. His utility belt girded his waist, with a blaster strapped to the hip. An oversized powercell pocket would serve to keep his lightsaber hidden.

Kaylee had dressed similarly, choosing a sleeveless shirt and vest instead of jacket. Their discarded clothes fit in Kaylee's bag.

They left the store, hand in hand, after paying for their purchases, and Liam's suggestion that they had never been there. As they stepped out into the street, and started off toward where they could find a room they could use as a base of operations.

Could Kaylee be trusted though, he asked himself. As he looked at her, he knew he could trust her to watch his back, and to help him find out what was truly happening in the Temple. He was certain, however, he couldn't trust her to keep her hands to herself. Yelara, he thought, pushing the thought through the Force. I'm coming to find you. I'm coming to save you. Before I lose myself.

---

"Feltrey Party, Interrupted - Part 1"
By: Raeila Selrid
Ferrig Mullerin
Pack [NPC+]
Yannick [NPC+]
Aera [NPC+]

Location: Thanatos
Date: Selene 21, 5 ABY

***

Raeila and Ferrig had walked in silence most of the way to the Feltrey's house. There were so many memories wrapped up in there, most notably the time Nieme and Dani were prisoners. Those were the days he missed. That was the life he longed for. Days and nights filled with sex, drugs, and beating the hell out of those the Feltreys didn't like.

As the house came into view, Ferrig looked aside at his sister and smiled. "Remember our first night in there," he asked. "We shared that room with the huge bed, just me and you. Those were the days, weren't they? I think you spent more time naked than you did in clothes. And the clothes you wore when you went to work... After watching you go, I would be hard for the next three hours just thinking about you. I think they've got a new girl now. They're trying to start up a harem of girls for the gang." He shook his head. "There was a day when your presence was enough to keep them all happy."

"I'm a married woman now," she reminded him, though it was a struggle keeping a grin from tugging at her lips. "I can't hop from bed to bed anymore - they've gotta find their pleasure elsewhere."

"Oh, they definitely do," Ferrig said with a grin. "Cute little thing too. She loves it with the Feltreys, that's for sure. Crazy wild between the sheets too. She's got a sister who just started hanging around the house earlier this month. They're definitely bed hoppers, that's for sure."

"How old are they?" Raeila's brow knitted. "No kids, Ferrig...please?"

"Aera is about your age and her sister is about Tala's," Ferrig said. "They're old enough."

"For the desert," she added bitterly. "If this were New Plouton, they'd be able to live out their childhood, but not here. In the desert, all they've got is their bodies, unless they prefer starvation and death. And you seem to prefer it that way."

"They're not being forced into this, Rae," Ferrig said. "They made this choice. Many of the girls of Thanatos want to be ganger girls. They want to give their bodies to us, to share in our lifestyle. You know it's always been that way. Before you and Kael turned all soft, it was a life you loved. They want to give themselves, and we're happy to give them a place to be loved. They get good food, have a roof over their head, and will be protected fiercely from anyone who would wish to do them harm."

"They wouldn't need that protection if you weren't trying to re-establish the gangs, to make Thanatos a savage wasteland again. Why are you doing this, Ferrig?"

"To protect my people from the Wetters, Rae," he answered. "Our people. Have you heard the news? The Jedi are now outlaws. The High Princess declared them outlaws because they were hiding Nieme and Dani. What will be outlawed next? Who will be their next target? I don't want to hurt our people, Rae. How could you even think that? I want to unite our people against those who would do us harm, against those who would attack us for being different, or for not doing things the way they like. I want to protect our people, Rae, because I don't want to find out what they would do to us if they knew Dani was living under our roof."

"What are you talking about?" she asked in a breathless panic. "Kael's in trouble? How long have you known, Ferrig!?"

"It was on the news nets," he said. "I heard about it earlier, but didn't want to say anything in front of Dani and Tralesha. I also wanted to talk to Kael. I don't know if I really trust the news nets, but it did sound serious. I'm sure Kael will be here soon. He knows how much you worry about his safety, and he won't leave you wondering if something's happened to him."

"And while he comes home to find me gone, I'm here joining in on whatever festivities you have planned?" Raeila shook her head in disbelief. "Ferrig...you're threatened by Kael, aren't you? You think he's taken me away from you."

"He has, Rae," Ferrig answered. "You're a married woman. You don't have the fire you once did. And it is because of Kael that's happened. I think we're coming to a point where you'll have to choose, Raeila. Not me or Kael, but Kael or the desert. You could be my queen, Rae. It could be the two of us, helping to protect the desert from harm. But, I don't think you could truly do that as Kael's wife. You could as mine though."

"But...Kael's a Kir'Thanan, too," she whispered. "He's just chosen not to participate in the violence and hatred. Does that mean he's a wetter? Because he wants peace?"

"I really don't know, Rae," Ferrig said. "I just know that both of you are very different now, and you don't want the same things as before. Thana used to always come first, but now... What do you want, Rae? What is it that you want now? Are you happy with him? Do you want your life with him now? You've got Dani and Tralesha to have babies. I bet we could get Zari to have a baby for you, and it'd almost look like you. Talara's baby probably wouldn't, but...but I bet she could make a beautiful baby. I really messed up with her, I know. But...but I bet she'd still be your friend."

"And I know she could still love you, if you'd change," Raeila told him gently. "Then she'd want to have a baby with you. Wouldn't that be better than taking it - her offering?"

"Well, of course it would," Ferrig said. "How am I supposed to change? What am I supposed to do, Rae? It just...I don't know what I need to do."

She slid her arm through his and leaned her head fondly upon his shoulder. "Just...be kind, and gentle...and less conniving. That should do it."

"So...be like Kael," he asked with a chuckle. "It's nice to think that maybe it could happen, Rae, but after what I did Talara and Zari will never forgive me."

"They're Jedi," she pointed out. "They have to forgive you!"

"You'll help me? You'll help me make them see I'm alright? I was just...losing Talara really affected me, my judgement was off. I wasn't really myself."

"You still aren't...but that can change." She smiled towards the Feltrey house, vibrating with loud music and laughter. "Maybe once we join our friends, you'll rediscover the simple joys, and forget about these outlandish schemes of yours. Worth a try?"

He reached around and gave her backside a squeeze. "Ah, the simple joys," he said. "I think I could go for that."

With a squeal, Raeila swatted at Ferrig's hand and scampered towards the small house, giggling as Ferrig gave pursuit. It reminded her of simpler times, when they were content with just living free and without responsibilities - when the Wetter land's touch hadn't tainted them. If they could recapture that joy, Raeila considered not ever leaving Thanatos behind again.

***

A wave of sound hit Rae and Ferrig as they stepped into the house. The party was most definitely in full swing as they started inside. Before they'd managed two steps, each had a drink in hand put there by a boisterous Feltrey near the door. By the third, a scantily glad girl had attached herself to Ferrig's hip and grinned up at him. She was probably younger than Rae by a year or so, and her outfit seemed to be made of wisps of fabric that made an equadi seem modest.

"Oh Ferrig," she said, "I was hoping you'd be here tonight. I was sad when they started the party without you, but here you are." She smiled at Rae. "Hi, I'm Aera. You must be Raeila. You don't know how much I've wanted to meet you. I hope we can talk later."

She smiled slowly, mildly taken aback but more impressed that she was so well-known. "Sure...whenever you'd like."

"I'd like that very much," Aera said with a wide grin. "I hope you don't mind, but I'll have to steal Ferrig away from you for a little bit later. But, I know it's probably too much to ask, but if you have any...advice."

Raeila hesitated, not entirely comfortable in reassuming her former status as Feltrey whore, but Aera's eyes entreated her with such adoration and respect that it was difficult to refuse her. "Just...don't forget to give him what he wants," she answered grudgingly, "but also leave him begging for more. This way, he'll never grow bored of you."

The girl gave her a grin. "I will," she said. "You're why I wanted to be a Feltrey Girl. When I was a kid, I saw how they all looked after you and loved you, and I knew that's what I wanted. Beats selling chatabeets at my da's stand."

"If you insist," she replied with a weak smile. "At least selling chatabeets is an honest enough living."

"If you like huddling under a brella haggling with toothless men," Aera said. "Much rather spend my days here with these guys. It's much more fun. I'll take sex over chatabeets any day. Though, chatabeets are kind of shaped right, and my da would kill me if he knew what I did with that chataroot that one time." She gave Rae a mischievous grin.

Raeila's eyes widened in slight shock, but the old, unbridled Raeila exposed herself for a brief moment and chuckled at the girl. "Well, if it works...."

"The old guy who bought it, he bought three the next day," Aera added. "You're married now, huh?"

"Yes...how do you know all this?" She smiled accusingly. "Have you been asking the boys?"

"How else would I be able to find out more about you," she asked. "You've been hiding in your other house so I couldn't see you."

"You're insane," she laughed softly. "I'm no role-model, Aera. Whoring is not as glamourous as it may seem, I hope you realize."

"I'm not into glamourous," Aera answered with a grin. "I'm just doing what I love doing and getting paid for it. Though, I give to the Feltreys for free. Townies and Wetters have to pay a good price though."

Raeila cocked an eyebrow Ferrig's way. "They let you sell to Wetters? That's a new one...."

"Pretty disgusting stuff," Ferrig said. "I make her shower before we get together. But, I guess after you left over it, when Aera said she wanted to, they let her, so she didn't follow too closely in your footsteps. Plus, they figure if she wants to, they don't mind the Wetter coin."

"The Wetters always pay better than Townies, anyway," Aera said. "The boys are always so cinched up over it, but some of the Wetters are really nice."

"I guess the desert's changed after all," Raeila mused. "Hey, Aera...you mind if I talk to Ferrig for a bit? I'll catch up with you later."

"Not at all," Aera said with a grin. "I'll see you later. We'll have to have a drink together." She gave them a wave, then sauntered off toward where Pack was pouring drinks.

"Isn't she great," Ferrig said with a laugh.

"She's...nice," Raeila allowed. "Is she initiated as a Feltrey, or is she just the group whore?"

"She's initiated," Ferrig said. "Her sister is set to be at the end of the week. She's helpful around here too, Rae. She makes people happy, and not just between the sheets. She actually made Pack clean up after himself when he tipped over a drink the other day. She's not just a whore here, Rae. She's a little sister to half these guys, and someone soft and warm to make the rest forget how hard life can be here."

She smiled wanly and murmured, "I hope I was as useful...."

"Of course you were," Ferrig said. "Rae, every time I show up here, every one of the guys looks behind me to see if I've brought you along. Your life has changed and you've moved on, and the gang needed to as well. They had to get a new girl once it was clear you weren't coming back."

"I know," she insisted. "I'm...I'm not angry or sad. I just...miss how things used to be sometimes. There weren't so many troubles as there are now."

"You could always go back to it," Ferrig said. "It'd earn you and Kael some extra money, and it'd be doing what you were happy doing. I'm sure Kael would be hesitant at first, but I think you could convince him it'd be alright."

"I already mentioned it once - he didn't go for it. Besides...I'm training to be a healer, Ferrig. I can't go selling myself again!"

Ferrig shrugged. "Just make sure you're not denying yourself something you do want," he said. "You deserve to be happy, and that means jumping Pack because it thrills you, you should. If you think he'll disapprove, I have a few ideas to help bring him around. I mean, he couldn't complain about you and someone else, if you gave him permission and encouraged him to be with someone else too. Like him and Tralesha. Or even him and Aera. Just need to get him to see it's okay and it won't jeopardize your marriage. There are lots of people who have open marriages. Hell, on this planet it's okay to have multiple wives."

"But Kael's a Jedi," she stressed. "He's not supposed to do those things. He won't, Ferrig! And I've accepted that. I...I can live with just being boring old Raeila Selrid and vanishing from the memory of the Feltreys forever."

"Doesn't sound like it," Ferrig said. "Sounds like you want to burn brightly in the memories of the Feltreys. If nothing else, start small and see how you feel. Slip into a room with Aera and have fun. I mean, it's not really cheating with a girl, right?"

"It doesn't matter who it is, Ferrig," she snapped, growing irritated not by his insistence, but by the nagging reminder that she did miss the old days, that her current life was one of deprivation and nonfulfillment. "Just...just leave me alone," she spat. "It can't happen."

"Suit yourself," Ferrig said. "Don't complain to me about not being happy though. You're the one holding yourself back. I'm gonna go find Aera and have some fun. We'll be in our old bedroom if you want to have fun too."

She clutched his arm before he could leave. "You can't just abandon me out here, Ferrig! I don't know half the people here anymore. There are so many new faces...they'll think I'm a pleasure girl."

"You could come with me and Aera," Ferrig said. "You don't have to do anything. Even so, if you did something to me, it wouldn't be like you were doing anything wrong since you know Kael is okay with you and me being together."

Raeila sighed, sullenly looking out into the crowd of gangers drinking and revelling, with not a care in the world while she felt the burden of all her worries weighing her down. "I...I'm so lost, Ferrig," she whispered. "I don't know who the hells I am anymore."

"I know where you want to be," Ferrig said softly as he slipped his arms around her from behind and held her against his chest. "It's in our blood. You want to be out there, with them, or in a room letting yourself go free. It's who we are and who we've always been. I wish I could give you an easy answer, Rae, but there isn't one. The best thing I can say is follow your heart, and if it leads you into something Kael doesn't like, then he doesn't love the true you."

"But...he's changed," she whispered breathlessly, finding her body willingly leaning into Ferrig's. "I have to change with him...we're arozeils, Ferrig. We're meant to be."

"Maybe he can find a balance between what he's changing into and where you're at. I mean, we used to be really bad people--maybe I still am, but you're not--and now things have changed. Maybe he changed too much."

"Too much," she mumbled absently as Ferrig's hand dropped lower, brushing against her crotch and spreading a shiver throughout her body. A soft moan escaped her lips. "Stop that, Ferrig," came her feeble plea. "I...I know what you're trying to do."

"I'm trying to help you relax," Ferrig whispered into her ear. "You're very tense." He moved his hand back up to her belly. "Fine, I'll stop. And, I'm not trying to do anything other than make you happy again. We need to bring Kael back a little. So you won't be evil like before, that's not so bad. But, before you were married Kael never had a problem with your work, so he shouldn't now. It doesn't mean you love him any less, and he's still the one you want. And if that will make you happy, I can't see Kael saying no. Just make sure he knows that you still love him more than anything and only the sex with him has any spiritual significance for you."

Raeila grasped Ferrig's wrist to keep it from straying higher over her torso. "Stop mocking me, Ferrig," she warned. "It's not spiritual - it's about showing him how much I love him, and sex is the best way to do it. He'll be jealous...and as a Jedi, he can't afford to feel that. Don't you care it could place him into danger?"

"I do care," Ferrig said. "But I also care about you and your happiness. You really should talk to him about it again, Rae, before you start to resent him for it. He's changed, but that doesn't mean he can change more. We just need to convince him that an open relationship is best. You should have him marry Tralesha and Dani too, that'll help him warm up to the idea."

"He won't do it," Rae insisted. "He's... principled now, Ferrig. And...I'm his arozeil, he wouldn't want anyone else." She frowned, and craned her head back to look up at Ferrig from behind. "Would he? Do you think...?"

"Probably," Ferrig answered. "I would bet he'd do anything for you, Rae. I mean, you've got Dani in your bed. I know he's not entirely happy about that, but he knows you love her. He does like her a lot, probably loves her too. It's not too many steps to accepting others in with you. If you love Tralesha, want her baby to be yours, and let him know that, I'd bet he'd be happy to let her in. I don't know how you feel about Tral, but she is a good person. Thana knows I didn't deserve her, but she's pregnant with my baby, with your baby. If you want it, he'll want it, Rae. I know it."

"I don't know," she said slowly, pensively. "Tralesha...she has strange ideas, Ferrig. I don't know if...if she's proper to raise my baby with me. We may need to get rid of her once the baby's born..."

Ferrig shrugged. "Then we get rid of her," he said. "I'm sure the Feltreys would like her. Unless you have qualms about giving her to them. Or, you could try to bring her around so she doesn't have strange ideas any longer. Makes no difference to me, really. In the end, I'm sure Kael would accept anyone you wanted him to."

Raeila turned and gaped at Ferrig. "You'd hand Tralesha over to the Feltreys? But...I thought you loved her - or was that a lie?"

"I do," Ferrig said. "But, you want to get rid of her once the baby's born. You're the most important woman in my life, Rae, and no one, not Tala, Zari, or Tralesha, will ever be more to me than you. And that means if I have to push them all away, then I will. If it means turning them over as slaves to the Feltreys, then that's what I have to do. It'll keep her close enough for me, it'll keep the boys happy, and maybe in time she'll find herself strong enough to be of the desert."

"Your ideas are getting crazier and crazier," Raeila chuckled. "Do you really think all this will work without blowing up in your face?"

"Of course," Ferrig said. "I'm the only one in the whole galaxy who even cares about Tralesha, Rae. No one will be upset or tormented because she's a Feltrey slave girl. Once she's had your baby, I can't even see why you'd care. You don't even like her. You keep talking about liking it the way it was, but then you've got all these new ideas about things, like Tral. Thana, Rae, have you even looked at how you're dressed? You would have never worn anything like that."

"Like what?" She inspected herself from head to toe, trying to find fault with the loose-fitting pants and high-collared shirt Ferrig seemed to disapprove of. "I don't understand.... I've never worn anything like this before?"

"Exactly," Ferrig said. "You used to dress like how Dani dresses. You dress like an old lady now."

Insulted, she complained, "I am not an old lady! This is comfortable, okay? Besides, Kael doesn't mind one bit."

"He doesn't," Ferrig said with a grin, "but I bet he wouldn't complain if you dressed like you used to, like Dani does."

"If we were alone, he wouldn't," she corrected. "We're respectable now, Ferrig, so we have to behave, and present ourselves well. No one will take us seriously as healers if I show up in a short skirt and belly-baring top."

"They take Talara seriously in her skintight belly-baring Jedi outfit," Ferrig said. "Have you even tried? I'm not sure I really believe you miss the old times, before all the mess, Rae. You have an excuse for why you can't do anything from before. It's always because Kael won't like it. Well, what about you? What do you want? You sacrifice everything for Kael. It's time for him to accept you for who you are and who you want to be. If he doesn't, then he doesn't really love you. Can't you see that? Don't be who you think he wants you to be, be who you are. That's who he fell in love with anyway. Dress how you want, be how you want. At least as long as you're not torturing Dani and Nieme and acting like me, no one will have any reason to complain about you."

"You're not Kael, how do you know that? This is about what you want, not what I want. You want your whore of a sister back for Thana knows what reason. Why can't you accept me like this? What's wrong with how I am?"

"There's nothing wrong with you, Rae. But, I liked how you dressed before. I want whatever you want, Rae. I want you to be happy. If I just wanted what I wanted for myself, would I suggest Kael take on other wives for you? I'd recommend you get rid of Kael before he really drags you down, before you're past the point of being happy ever again. Think of all that's happening, Rae...it all goes back to Kael. Kael's the reason you're feeling the way you are. But I haven't suggested you get rid of him."

"He's not the one who's keeping me from having my own baby," she riposted. "How can you say that about him - your best friend?!"

"I'm just saying what I see," Ferrig said. "Are you happy with him? Do you like who you are? Do you want to be with Kael?"

"I love him," she informed Ferrig emphatically. "That's all that matters. Besides, weren't you here to return the desert to its past glory, or do you really want to continue trying to convince me I'm better as a whore than a healer?"

"Why can't I do both," Ferrig asked. "Not that I want you to be a whore. I don't. I just want you to be happy, Rae. Why can't you see that? You're not happy, and I'm trying to help. And, you're just jumping at me for trying to help." He shook his head. He made a disgruntled noise and turned away. "I'm going to New Plouton. I need to see if I can find Talara or Zari."

She hurried to his side and declared, "Then I'm coming with you. I can't afford to have you out of my sights for even a second the way you're acting."

"Well, that's good," Ferrig said. "At least you can warm them up to me and make sure they don't think I'm going to hurt them."

"You abducted Tralesha. Why wouldn't you do the same to them?"

"Because we don't have enough rooms left in our house," Ferrig answered.

"See?" she pestered. "The impulse is still there, though. You're such a lecher, Ferrig."

"I'd have to drug Talara or something to get her to come with me," Ferrig said. "Have you seen her fight? That girl is about sixteen different shades of deadly."

Raeila smirked. "Maybe she can be the one to finally teach you a lesson then."

"I think that's a fate I'm going to try to avoid," Ferrig said. "Besides, you wanted to see Tala, right? Maybe while the two of you catch up, I can try to apologize to Zari."

"By raping her again?" Raeila grinned facetiously.

"She wanted it, Rae," Ferrig said. "She was willing for the entire time. Her boyfriend found out she was cheating on him so she had to make up a story and told him it was against her will. She still liked it all, and she was begging me to fill her up. She wanted it every time. I can't believe you're just spouting the Jedi drivel."

"And I can't believe you're trying to lay that torga dung on me," she replied. "It won't have been the first time you forced a woman, Ferrig. Don't lie to your sister."

"Rae, it was four months," Ferrig said. "It was four toggan months. Do you really think I would rape her every day for four months? And she'd never say a word. She'd always be where I could find her, Rae? She wouldn't ever hide in her room or make sure she was with her best friend Talara? If she didn't want it, do you really think she'd make sure she was alone right where I could find her. Every month for four months? Four toggan months. Think about it."

"I have," she told him curtly, "and you may think she wanted it, but she didn't, Ferrig, and that's all that matters. You were wrong. Admit it for once!"

Ferrig shook his head and let out a growl of frustration. "So I'm just the villain," he said. "Why don't you just go on back to the house and wait for Kael then. If you don't believe me anymore then it's over. I never thought I'd see the day, but here it is. Go with Kael. I'll find my own way from now on." He turned and headed for the door.

Raeila watched his retreating back, shoulders hunched tightly and step thunderous. She gave chase, hollering after him, "It's never over, Ferrig! We're blood! No matter how far you run, you'll always be drawn back to me!"

"You should have thought of that before you turned on me," he called back. "You should have remembered that we're blood." He turned. "You should have remembered!"

"I remember!" Raeila shouted in response.

"So do we," an animated voice from beside them interjected. Their eyes found Pack and Yannick, watching them in mild amusement as they leaned against the dwelling's outer wall, enjoying cigarras. "Now, I don't know how the Wetters do it, but this doesn't look like foreplay to me."

"It's not," Ferrig said. "Raeila has made it clear to me that she values me less than Wetters. We're done, her and me. It's over."

Yannick stepped forward, laying a hand on Ferrig's shoulder. "Whoa, buddy...don't say things you'll regret. Rae's your sister - your only family! You're gonna dump her just like that?"

"She dumped me when she called me a liar," Ferrig said.

"Well, that's a shame," Pack said as he placed a hand on Rae's shoulder. "I mean, you being a liar and all."

Ferrig snarled. "I'm not! Zari's the liar!"

"She's not that cute little hallie you brought out that one time, is she? Oh no, that's Talara. I gave her the chance to suck me, but she wouldn't take it. Even showed her the prize. Rae used to, but she's all respectable now. So, Zari lied, and I can only assume it's not about how big you are. So, what did this little hallie who has your brother all twisted lie about, Rae? Or is Ferrig the liar?"

"I don't lie!" Ferrig's fists were balled and ready to throw a punch.

"Shash, Ferrig," Pack said. "I was talking to your beautiful little sister, and I will curse Kael to the end of my days for taking her away from me. So, what's this grand lie, Rae?"

Rae smiled wanly, for a moment nostalgic about the old times with the entire gang together, joking around and fawning over her. Little did she realize her voice was trembling and her eyes watering as she whispered, "He was...he was just being Ferrig, that's all. It's just a silly argument. We shouldn't have brought it to the party."

Pack put a comforting arm around her shoulder and grinned over at Ferrig. "Still running away?

"I wasn't--"

"Right," Pack said. "Well, you go on then." He made a shooing motion. "Me and Yannick will take care of Little Raeila here. I still have to woo her away from Kael. He may be better looking, faster, stronger, more romantic, and an all-powerful Jedi, but I've still got a bigger donga." He gave Rae a big grin. "That's gotta count for something."

Laughing gently in spite of herself and, as would have been her first response in the past, Raeila playfully shoved Pack away. "No matter the size, he plays his instrument a lot better than you ever could." As Pack and Raeila continued their game of reisacat and Beeja rat, Yannick sidled over to Ferrig and laid a companionable hand on his shoulder. "What's going on with you two? I've only ever seen you and Rae fight once in all the years we've known each other. This isn't like you guys."

"She's critical of everything I do," Ferrig answered. "She thinks the worst of me, and I can't do anything right. It's...it's about a girl, and Rae doesn't believe me. She practically called me a liar to my face. I can't square with that, Yannick. We've always been so close, and now...I'm something she's scraped off her shoe."

"Are you saying she doesn't love you anymore?" Yannick gave a low whistle, shaking his head. "Now I've seen and heard everything. Nothing could top Ferrig Mullerin tossing his sister to the sand."

"She's changed, Yan," Ferrig said. "Look how she dresses now. Look how she acts. She's not the Raeila she was before. I understand part of it is being faithful to Kael, but she's changed more than that. She had some bad things done to her, and it's really affected her. She wants a baby, but Nieme did something and now she can't. It's driving her deeper into despair, and no matter how I try to help, nothing works."

"Then let us give it a try," Yannick urged him. "It sounds like you two have got some things to work through, and being Mullerins, you're both stubborn as folja bulls, neither of you are willing to listen to the other. With some outside perspective, maybe we can get the old Rae back."

"Give it your best," Ferrig said. "You won't get the old Rae back. She doesn't want the old Rae back, but she doesn't know what she wants. She just wants to be the perfect wife for Kael, and that's it. It's all Kael's fault. Ever since he went off to become a Jedi, she's changed. It's all Kael's fault."

"What's my fault," came a familiar voice approaching from out of the shadows.

---

"Feltrey Party, Interrupted - Part 2"
By: Kael Selrid
Ferrig Mullerin
Raeila Selrid
Pack [NPC+]
Yannick [NPC+]
Aera [NPC+]

Location: Thanatos
Date: Selene 21, 5 ABY

***

Stepping into the light stood Kael Selrid, no longer dressed as a Jedi, but instead in dark breeches and boots with a black jacket pulled over black shirt.

"Kael!" Pack was, again, pushed aside, this time in favour of Kael, to whom Raeila bolted. She was caught in his arms, sheets of her blonde hair settling around his shoulder as their lips tangled.

"Well," Yannick commented with a wry grin, "we won't be doing much now. But rest assured, Ferrig, we'll get her back for you. Trust us."

"We're with you buddy," Pack said as he clapped a hand down on Ferrig's shoulder. "We're with her too, but rest assured we won't forget you. Maybe they won't rush straight home to try to make babies, and they'll stay here and be friendly."

"Dani's out shopping, so they won't be making any babies."

Pack blinked.

"Since Rae can't have a baby, Dani agreed to be their surrogate."

Pack blinked. Again. "That man has all the luck, I tell you. Rae and Dani? What did I ever do to upset Thana that she's cursed me so? I envy him even more, and thusly do I hate him." He shook his head morosely, but there was a curling to his lips. "I wonder if he would allow me to touch him in a non-sexual way in hopes that some of his power might rub off on me."

"Non-sexual, right," Yannick muttered with a roll of his eyes.

"Hey, I don't swing that way," Pack said. "I'd love to touch Raeila that way, but Kael would leave me with a stump."

"Not if you ask nicely," Ferrig said.

"Oh?" Pack chuckled. "Hey Kael, when you come up for air, can I have sex with your wife?"

"No," Kael called back.

"Ah, come on," Pack called. "Before when you guys weren't married it was okay."

"That was before," Kael said as he nuzzled against Raeila's throat.

Pack harrumphed loudly. "Before what?"

Kael chuckled. "Before now when I had been away from my wife for too long?"

"What about after," Pack asked despondently.

"You'll have to ask Rae," was the answer.

Pack shrugged and turned back to Ferrig and Yannick. "See?"

"You didn't ask her," Ferrig said.

"Yeah, and she'll laugh at me." Pack sighed, shook his head. "Hey, Rae, how about you and me later?"

"Pack," she replied, "you're just too cheap to buy yourself a pleasure girl. If you think I'm gonna take pity on your impoverished butt, forget it!"

"Aera likes me," Pack said. "Maybe I'll just go visit with her if you don't want me."

"I doubt she'd want you." Her grey eyes looked across the expanse of darkness to find her brother's. "She's waiting for Ferrig, and seeing you would only be a disappointment."

"She'd rather have you," Pack said. "She just likes him cuz he's your brother."

"Really," Ferrig drawled. "So, why does she like you?"

With a wide grin, Pack reached down and grabbed his crotch. "I'm Packing and I know how to use it."

"Sure you do," Ferrig said. "I bet you don't have the first idea how to use that grotesque thing you've got stuffed in your pants."

"Shash, Ferrig. You know not of which you speak. My prowess is legendary!"

"I think I'm going to need proof," Ferrig said with a grin. "Time for a demonstration. Shall we haul Aera out here for you to show us how a master works?"

"Bring it on," Pack said. "You will all bow before my mightiness before the night is over."

"I guess," Raeila said to Kael, stroking his cheek languidly, "this is our cue to leave. I was worried about you...it's such a relief to see your face."

"I knew you would be," Kael said. "I came here as soon as I could. So far all the Jedi appear to be safe. How's Dani?"

Raeila hesitated, remembering suddenly what she'd allowed to happen. If Dani confessed to Kael that Raeila had agreed to share her with Ferrig.... Burying her face into his shoulder, Raeila breathed, "Let's just go home."

"What is it, Rae?" Kael said, worry entering his voice. "Is she alright? She's safe?"

"She's safe," Raeila insisted, and tried to smile for her husband. "I'm just tired, that's all...from fretting that you'd been captured."

Kael kissed her forehead, then her lips. "Let's go on home then," he whispered. "I think I want to spend some time just holding you close and thanking Thana we're together."

As they turned to go, Ferrig called out. "Hey Kael. Just wanted you to meet Aera before you go. Doesn't she look just like Rae just a couple years ago? When I first saw her, I thought it was Rae."

Kael turned and the resemblance once the girl was in the light and out of the darkness of the party inside was uncanny. There were slight, subtle differences, but the blonde hair and facial features were so similar. "It's nice to meet you, Aera," Kael said. He turned to Rae and smiled to her, only for her, as they started to depart again.

"Well, let's let them go," Ferrig said to the others. "They need to go on home to be together. Aera, I bet if you had a baby, it'd probably look just like a sister or brother to the one Kael and Rae want to have. Funny, huh?"

As Yannick, Pack, and Ferrig drew Aera closer, Raeila resisted the compulsion to look back and witness what Ferrig had pointed out. But she refused, adamant about not falling prey to Ferrig's games, and stayed close to Kael, anchoring herself to the life of honesty and goodness she was maintaining by gripping Kael's arm tightly. "He's falling back to his old ways, the idiot," she rasped. "I can't stand to be around him like this."

He nodded. "He's not Force Sensitive, but I can feel the darkness pulling in around him," he said. "The resemblance is uncanny, isn't it? I know they're all adults, except for Aera. With Ferrig as he is now, I don't think it's right to leave her there with him, Rae. He'll corrupt her, and the desert has changed. It's not the place it was, and she doesn't deserve that life." He shook his head and sighed. "Maybe it's because she reminds me so much of you."

"I'm not a whore, not anymore," she informed him testily. "If this is the life she wants, that's her problem. I can't change the fact that she's an idiot."

"Before the Jedi found me and showed me a different life, I was a thug and heading toward an early death," Kael said. "I was an idiot then, but I was shown a different path and given new options. So were you. We were both idiots, but we got better."

"But this is what she wants," Raeila said quietly. "It's...it's what makes her happy."

"There was a time when you would have said the same," Kael said. "Do you really think leaving her in the hands of your brother is best for her? Do you really think she'll be happy there?"

Raeila shook her head in complete desolation. "I don't know anything," she whispered. "I'm so stupid, Kael. I can't decide what I want."

Kael pulled her into his arms. "You're not stupid, Rae. Not in the least. Given the way Ferrig's acting, what you said and what I saw, I don't think she should be with him. I don't know her, but I don't think she deserves whatever fate Ferrig has in store for her. He's up to something sinister. I don't know what I'd do with her if I rescue her, but I think she should be rescued."

"I know," Rae sighed. "She deserves a chance at something normal...." Pulling back, Raeila searched Kael's smile and adoring gaze, finding encouragement there. She looked over just as Yannick, Pack and Ferrig were closing in around the girl, and her heart leapt into her throat. Aera was more than a pleasure girl meant to be ravished; she deserved the opportunity to become more, something Raeila never had in her youth. "Aera!" she cried, her voice carrying a desperation that puzzled Raeila. Why did Aera's salvation mean so much? "Aera!"

Ferrig stifled a groan as the girl burst out of the ring they'd formed around her. "Put that thing away," he snarled to Pack.

"Raeila," Aera said as she came around the three gangers to face her idol. She had a beaming, adoring smile as she came to stand before Rae. While there was only a hint of longing and desire in her eyes, most of what Raeila saw there spoke of the girl's complete admiration. "I thought you were...you were going. Will I see you again soon? I thought maybe we could...hang out...or something."

Curiousity canted Raeila's smile. She hardly knew the girl, yet already held her devotion. With a soft laugh, Raeila said, "That's a great idea." She held out her hand to Aera. "Come on. Kael and I were just on our way home, but we can stop by a fizzy-juice stand first."

"Really," Aera asked. She glanced back at Ferrig, Pack and Yannick, then back at Raeila. Without another hesitation, she placed her hand in Rae's. "They'd better not be out of beebleberry again." She gave Rae a big smile.

"I hope not," Raeila chuckled in reply and squeezed the girl's hand as the three of them turned towards home. Ferrig's glare of resentment was not lost on Raeila, but she ignored it and walked on.

"I'm really beginning to resent my brother-by-marriage," Ferrig growled.

Pack frowned and looked around. "I'm going to have to drown my sorrows, I think. I really think we need more girls here."

"I plan to remedy that situation," Ferrig said with a smile. "And, I'm going to have to teach Kael not to stick his nose in desert business."

"He's a Jedi," Yannick, the more level-headed of the three, reminded him. "How are you going to get near him?"

Ferrig smiled. "I won't need to," he said. "But I know of some very resourceful people who would love to have a long and in-depth conversation with him. And I think they'll be very grateful."

"I don't know if Pack agrees," Yannick said, "but I want no part of that. Kael's a friend...and Rae would hate us forever if we did anything to him."

"I'm with Yannick," Pack said. "Kael's always been like a brother to me. I don't like this, Ferrig. Turning against one of our own?"

"Kael Selrid stopped being one of ours when he chose the Jedi," Ferrig snapped.

"Still no reason to do this," Pack said. "You're on your own for it. I'm not getting in on something like that."

"Fine," Ferrig said, his voice a growl. "Either way, I'm getting Kael out of the picture, and I'm getting Aera back. Neither of you better breathe a word of this to Kael or Raeila. It's for Raeila's own good."

Yannick smirked in challenge. "We'd better not tell her or what? You'll hurt us, too? We promised we'd help you with Rae, Ferrig, but Kael's our brother. We can't betray him."

"And you can't betray me," Ferrig said. "So, you say nothing about my plans?"

Yannick and Pack exchanged uncertain looks, but both finally nodded. "We won't say a word, Ferrig. You're our friend - we can't do that to you."

"Thanks," Ferrig said. "Come on, let's go inside and see if we can find someone to replace Aera. And drinks are on me."

Clapping him on the back, Yannick quipped, "Good thing we already paid for them then, hm?"

"Just my luck," Ferrig said with a laugh. "So, would you guys like to see Raeila turning tricks again? If we get her to turn around to us, I'll make sure you two have freebies for life."

Laughing deeply, Yannick answered, "Now, how could we say 'no' to that?"

Putting an arm around each of their shoulders, Ferrig lead them inside. "So is it true what Pack tells me? You turned down a delicious piece of tail when Nieme and Dani summoned you to the palace?"

"Oh, it's true," Pack said as they disappeared inside. "Cutest thing. Dark hair and eyes and wearing wispy pieces of silk that barely covered anything. Oh, it was like a piece of heaven..."

***

Seated all together in the main room of their house, Kael, Raeila and Aera all sipped at their fizzy-juices.

"I don't know," Aera was saying. "I guess I always just thought that's the life I would choose, instead of my da's stand. And it's nice with the nice guys. This one wetter, all in a fancy suit and everything, he paid me a hundred for sucking him, but then he gave me five thousand just because he liked me. He said if I ever got tired of the sand, he could give me a good life in the city. I guess those stories are pretty rare though." She smiled. "And, I like it here with you guys. You have a really nice home. Mine, with my da, is really small. Only one bedroom, so I usually sleep out on the floor when I'm home. Lately I've just been sleeping at the Feltrey house."

"The choice is yours in all of this, Aera," Kael said. "You can choose your own path, and we're happy to help however we can."

"And," Raeila added, "I hope you don't mind some advice, such as staying away from Ferrig. He's...he's not always a good person, Aera. Don't get involved with him - he's bad news."

She nodded. "He always seemed nice, but he didn't seem nice tonight. All he was interested in was sex. Not that that's all that bad. I mean, it was nice, but I guess he was just another, right? You guys seem more interested in me, and not just what I can do between the sheets. Thank you."

"Aera," Raeila said gently, touching the girl's hand, "you don't have to be a pleasure girl. There are so many other things you could be doing. I mean...are you happy?"

After thinking about it a moment, she nodded. "Right here, right now, I am," she said. "It's actually the first time I've felt happy in a long time. I mean, I like the sex, but...I know they don't really care who I am, just that they have somewhere to stuff themselves."

She leaned forward to capture the girl's gaze and urged, "Then stop, Aera. Don't do it anymore. You can always come to us if you need a place to sleep...with no strings attached."

"Really? You guys are so great," Aera said, tears forming in her eyes. "That means so much. You guys are...no one has ever been this nice to me."

Kael smiled. "Well, we're happy to help however we can," he said. "We don't have a lot of room in here, but I'm sure we can find a place for you to sleep. We can put you in Ferrig's room now that he probably won't be returning here."

"And if you need anything - clothes, food - just ask," Raeila told her. "Just...don't ever let anyone tell you you're worth nothing more than a hole to pump their sandworms into. There's a world outside this desert, Aera. Don't be afraid of it or the opportunities that await you there."

"I won't," Aera said with a smile. "And...I know you just offered, and I don't want to impose, but could I...could I stay here tonight? I don't want to go home, and I can't go back to the Feltrey house."

"Sure," Kael said. "It's no imposition at all."

Raeila giggled and patted Aera's hand excitedly. "We could stay up all night and talk while we eat chococrispies. How about it!"

"Yes," Aera squeaked. "That sounds like so much fun. You guys are the best friends I've ever had. You don't know how much this means to me."

"I do," Raeila assured her sincerely. "More than anyone else I know, Aera. If I'd had someone to support me when I was younger, my life would've played out a lot differently. You have that chance now, Aera, and I'm glad to be giving it to you."

"Me too," the girl said, the joy at her new situation clear on her face. She leaned across and gave Raeila an awkward hug.

Chuckling warmly, Raeila wrapped her arms around the girl's slender frame. Having pulled her off balance, the two girls collapsed onto the sofa with Aera atop Rae, both giggling boisterously. When smiling, the resemblance became stronger and could have convinced any stranger that they were, indeed, sisters. "You need a haircut," Raeila was telling Aera between laughs. "I'll cut it tonight. It'll be a complete make-over!"

"That sounds wonderful," Aera said, smiling brightly. "I can do yours if you want. I've had a little practice with my sister. Oh, Thana! Tomorrow I'm going to have to find her and tell her to stay away from the Feltreys. Thiri's been hanging out there for the last week. She hasn't gotten involved yet, but she wanted to be just like her big sister."

"She's welcome here as well," Kael said with a nod. "Though, too many more, and we're going to have to get a bigger house. Or...there's plenty of room up in the attic, we could turn that into another room."

"How old's Thiri?" Rae asked with some concern.

"She's twelve," Aera said. "She still looks like a stick. One of the guys tried to take her to one of the rooms, and Pack broke his nose. He and Yannick, they won't let anyone touch her. They can talk and joke out in the common rooms, but they don't let anyone even think about going with her."

Raeila smiled fondly as she remarked, "For as much as Pack and Yannick boast about their sexual escapades, they can be gentlemen at times. That's what I've always respected about those two. But...they won't always be around to protect her. She should just stay away altogether. You need to convince her of that."

"I'll find her tomorrow," Aera said. "Can she stay here too, maybe? We're both really good with chores around the house, my da saw to that."

"Sure," Raeila replied. "Though...won't your dad notice you're both missing? Won't he mind?"

"Nope," the girl said. "When it's a really cold night, we all sleep in the bed, but most nights me and Thiri just sleep out in the other room on the floor. I guess he might notice more if I'm not bringing home a lot of money, but I don't think he'll care at all if we're not sleeping there. If he doesn't have to feed us, it's more money for other things. I haven't slept there in a month, and Thiri hasn't in the last week."

"And...your mother? she asked carefully.

"She died when I was really little," Aera said. "It was a couple years after my sister was born, when that really bad windstorm came through. She got caught out in it and couldn't make it to the shelter. At least, that's what we think. We never found her after that storm."

"I was young when my mother left us, too," Raeila confided. "She was...was messed up in the head. I never really got close to her."

"My mother was nice from what I remember," Aera said. "My da was really sad after she was gone, and...and he hasn't been happy since. I think that's why things are the way they are. I was giving him some of the money I made to help. I'll have to find a real job now, one he'd be proud of me for. I do love him, but he doesn't...isn't really there. I mean, he is...but he's wishing she were still there. If that makes sense." She smiled at Rae. "It's nice to be able to talk to someone."

Sitting upright, with Aera's legs draped across her lap, Raeila stroked her arm consolingly. "You can talk to either of us whenever you want. We're friends, right?"

"Best friends," Aera said with a grin. "Or, I hope we are."

"Of course," Rae whispered fondly. "You want to go try on some of my clothes? I bet they'd fit."

Aera glanced down at the scant outfit she wore and grinned. "I think I'd like that very much."

"Well, I don't think you two want me along while you're trying on clothes," Kael said. "I'll go ahead and wait down here."

Giggling shrilly, the two girls scampered off while holding one another's hand. When Rae looked back at Kael, her brilliant smile shed years off her face and banished the lines of stress that had taken up residence there over the past months. She was the young woman Kael had pledged himself to so long ago, the vibrant girl unencumbered by all that had happened to her. With Aera in her life, she might be again, or could at least prevent the girl from encountering the same grief and distress. It was worth a shot, at least.

Kael gave her an encouraging smile and mouthed words of love to her as they disappeared up the stairs. Feeling some of the tension that had built up in the house released, he allowed himself to close his eyes and meditate on the new happiness and joy that was building here. Perhaps, despite everything else, there was hope for them still. It definitely felt good.

---

“Return to an Old Way, Part 1”
Kylen Muston – Engineer/Smuggler
Heelan (NPC) - Smuggler

Location: Drogen, Space, and an Unknown Planet
Date: Selene 21, 5 ABY

***

Kylen could hardly believe that the week had finally gone by. He had kept the comlink from Heelan in his pockets for every waking minute, and it was finally time to call him back and arrange to leave the Station. He had fed his boss the story he made up about his dying grandmother, and to his luck, it actually worked. The boss had just lost his own grandmother, but didn’t have the chance to see her before she passed. When Kylen told him the story, he actually tore up before he gave his permission.

So all his affairs were in order, except the actual departure. He checked his chronometer, and decided that he could call Heelan now and finally get rid of all the nervous energy he felt. He pulled the comlink out and activated it as he pulled it to his lips.

“Hello, this is Kylen Muston. Heelan, are you there?” He felt a little sheepish, but it was the first thing he could think of to say. After a slight pause, he got a response.

“Hi there Kylen, it’s good to hear from you. Yeah, this is Heelan. I figured you might call a few minutes early, so I left the link on. I suppose you want to figure out when to leave now, right?”

“Exactly. First of all, where are you docked, and secondly, what time will you be ready?” He felt the old business attitude of the smuggler starting to come back to him now.

Heelan came back, “Well, I’m on 307 in Bay C. A tech I know owed me a favor, so I got a prime spot. I can be ready as soon as you can be. How about 0830 tomorrow morning?”

“Sounds good. I’ll meet you in your docking bay then. Bye.” Kylen had to remember to breathe after that. He was smuggling again. He hadn’t wanted to smuggled for a living, but it was so much flashier than working as a tech, and it paid considerably more too. Once he had started smuggling, he found it very hard to stop. And even when he had to sell his old ship, the Sprinter, he had a feeling deep down that he’d smuggle again before too long. Well, that feeling was right, because it had only been a month and he was already going on his next run.

Kylen calmed himself down and went about his business for the rest of the night, making sure to pack a bag too. He checked his vibroblades and pulled his blaster, a Blastech DH-17, out of its hiding place. He knew that as soon as you started smuggling, you needed to keep yourself protected. When he was all done checking things and packing them, he turned in for the night.

***

He woke early and got himself ready. He pulled on a pair of black slacks and a gray shirt, then his nerf leather boots. He pulled on his belt that had a vibroblade and his blaster visible. He had another 3 blades on himself already; one in his left boot, one tucked inside his shirt in the small of his back, and one in a wrist sheath, so that in a pinch, he could snap his arm out and have a blade ready. He snatched up his bag and trotted off down the corridor. He caught a lift with no trouble and got to level 307 in a just a few minutes. He walked into Bay C, and saw that there was only one ship inside. It is an old YT-1300, which had become even more popular now, due to the fame of the Millennium Falcon. He pulled the comlink from his pocket once again, tapped it twice, and started walking to the ship. By the time he reached it, Heelan had walked down the boarding plank to greet him.

“Kylen, come on aboard,” Heelan showed him onto the ship and set him up in one of the spare cabins. “I’m all loaded up, and have clearance to take off. I’m heading up to the cockpit now. Take a minute for a look around, and the join me and we’ll be off.” Heelan walked out Kylen took a look around the cabin. Nothing special, just a standard visitor’s room. Kylen looked around the rest of the rooms, and even in the cargo space. Everything seemed normal, and ready to go. The ready to go part was great, but Kylen felt uneasy with the looks of things. Of course Heelan had modifications on the ship, all smugglers did. Kylen was unnerved that he couldn’t find any, and therefore didn’t know what to expect. He made a mental note to ask Heelan about it as he made his way to the cockpit.

Heelan had already started the take-off sequence and gotten their clearance from the controller. He just motioned for Kylen to sit down and strap in when Kylen walked into the cockpit. Kylen did, keeping quiet, but he held his questions in his mind. When they were both ready, Heelan pulled the controls up and eased the throttle forward to. They were moving, and on their way.

Heelan had already calculated a jumppoint and route. He had the navcomp screen turned off so that Kylen wouldn’t be able to repeat the journey. After a short time, they reached the point and Heelan engaged the hyperdrive, turning the stars, which had been points up till now into long lines of light as they hurtled by at speeds physically impossible in normal space.

“It won’t be long, maybe 3 hours or so,” Heelan finally spoke. “You can unstrap and make yourself comfortable. I’m going to catch a bit of a nap. Do whatever you want, but don’t mess with anything yet.” Kylen could see in his eyes that Heelan didn’t want to talk about his mods, as if it was like baring his soul. Heelan left the cockpit and Kylen followed him, a nap actually sounded good. The men each entered there respective cabins and drifted off.

Heelan woke Kylen up just a few minutes before they were scheduled to come out of hyperspace. They returned to the cabin and strapped themselves in again. Kylen felt differently about Heelan now than he had before. He thought he’d seen a somewhat fatherly figure, or at least a teacher or a mentor in him. But no, Heelan was simply using him to accomplish a goal and then would leave him forever. It had already soured the trip for Kylen, and the only thing that would sweeten it back up was the 2000 credits at the end. The reversion to real space was smooth, and left Kylen with a view of a gas giant planet, orbited by a small, rocky moon. He had no idea where they were, it was a new system to him, but tried to piece things together as Heelan headed for the moon. They couldn’t be that far from the Tae’Karada system, the travel time wasn’t that long. Heelan had said he had a cache here, so Kylen guessed it was a mostly uninhabited world. As they got closer to the moon’s surface, Kylen could see that it looked harsh and overly rocky.

Heelan piloted the ship down toward the surface after about 5 minutes. He hit a button on his console, and a concealed door in a hillside rolled open. He flew the ship in, and as he was setting it down under repulsor power, he hit the button again to close the door. Heelan powered down the engines and opened the gangway, saying “Alright kid. This is it. You’ve got 3 days to put 1000 credits worth of work into my ship. You’ll find all the tools and spare parts up against the wall. I’ll be coming and going, so don’t mind me.” Heelan walked off the ship and disappeared. Kylen thought he heard a speeder engine, but didn’t care to keep thinking about anything else. He dropped his mind into a work mode, where all he concentrated on was the job at hand.

We walked down the gangway and surveyed what he had to work with. The tools were good, the parts were mostly adequate. He’d need to piece together things himself for some parts he’d need. He spent the next few hours opening up the ship’s outer panels and seeing what Heelan had inside. He was a little impressed, Heelan was either a good tech himself or had hired some other good techs in the past. But Kylen knew he was about to blow them out of the water. He spent the time working as hard as he felt he should for 1000 creds. He never saw Heelan until the older man came back and told him to finish up, they would be leaving in 2 hours. In the 3 day stretch, Kylen had rewired the main ion drive to boost top speed by 4%, he’d reconfigured the turning thrusters to tighten the turn radius, and had redone the shield generators to allow 5% more power. When he told Heelan about what he’d done, glossing over the details so as to keep his secrets safe, Heelan seemed satisfied. Shortly thereafter, Heelan had the new cargo loaded, and they were up again. This time the trip would be longer, about 7 hours. Heelan had planned it for when the 2 men usually slept, so it worked out smoothly. Kylen cleaned himself up and turned in for the night.

---

"Training in Earnest"
By: Eiden (PC)
Jae Dyn Brael (PC)
Zari Zathmir (NPC+)

Location: Jedi Temple
Date: Selene 21, 5 ABY

***

Eiden was dreaming, somehow he knew, but still went along with the event. It was raining hard, and his hair was soaked, plastered back against his head. He had just completed his first set of armor, and was going on his first solo hunt. The dense canopy of Yasha trees was making the already gloomy day even darker. Through the rain and haze he caught a familiar scent. It was thick on the air as he began stalking into the underbrush near a small clearing.

There it was, the largest Boma he'd ever laid eyes on, grazing on the short grass of the clearing. A smile curled Eiden's lip; Cassiun was going to make him a warrior today with this kill. He shouldered his blaster and took careful aim at the Boma's exposed nerve cluster, ensuring a quick kill. He took a deep breath and slowly began to squeeze the trigger, but suddenly he heard a rustling behind him. He spun toward the sound just in time to hear the characteristic gurgling growl of Zakkeg. He knew then that they were stalking the same prey. The Zakkeg's horned and spiky form came into view from the shadows for a split second, it's massive jaws open wide as it leapt at Eiden....

He woke up, muscles stiff as usual. The physical training over the last few days had been rigorous, long runs, climbing exercises, tumbling, hand to hand technique. Eiden was taking to it well, his body remembering most things at the reflexive level. Sleep had been better than it had been since he could remember. Whether that was due to his daily exhaustion or his own peace of mind he didn't know. But, this most recent dream was different, he knew he had been much younger, and who was Cassiun?

He got up and quickly bathed, then got dressed. Zari was right, the tunic and robes were comfortable, like pajamas. He smiled to himself at the thought.

As was customary over the last few days, Eiden did a strict morning routine of careful stretching and a six mile run through the forest near the temple. He picked out a new route each day since the first. It was a good way to explore the surroundings and get a lay of the land while also getting his exercises done.

As he circled back toward the temple he realized that he was not only un-winded, but he wasn't sweating either. It was as though an unnatural vigor had taken over his body. He kept running and all his thoughts melted away, leaving just his footsteps on the ground, and the obstacles before him. At each turn he knew exactly where to place his feet to avoid tripping, or bad footing. How high to leap to surmount a fallen tree, or large boulder in his path, some leaps carrying him higher than his body alone was capable of. He paid no mind to these feats, focusing on the run.

He could feel the things surrounding him, the trees, the animals, the minute creatures under the ground, the forest thrummed with life, and Eiden could feel it all. He kept his focus through the sensations, the temple wasn't far now, just over the next bluff. As he ran up over the small hill and around the copse of trees that revealed the giant plant encrusted walls of the temple, he was greeted by Master Brael, and Zari just outside the entrance.

He ran up, finishing his morning run. He was breathing deep, but not labored as with earlier exercises, and only the barest amount of perspiration was beginning to dot his forehead.

"Master Brael," he said, "I felt the most extraordinary thing this morning."

"Go on," Jae Dyn said. At her, Zari was standing on one foot, her other resting against her knee, cocked out to the side. The girl's balance was remarkable, though having grown up in the trees of Agarra would have seen to that. She and Eiden had seemed to work out well as training partners. They complemented each other very well. While Eiden had a longer reach and much greater strength, Zari's agility and speed seemed to make up for her lack reach and strength. Despite her Padawan's condition, which she expected would be changing soon if her own experiences were any guide, she was progressing at a good rate. And, Eiden's progress seemed quite accelerated as well, though that was to be expected.

"As I was running I began to take in the things around me," Eiden explained. "I could feel everything, and more than that I was, without care or thought, doing things that I couldn't have imagined. But, what was most incredible was how, through it all, I could maintain focus on my task of simply running back to the temple. Looking back, I'm amazed at some of the things I did."

"That's good," Jae Dyn said. "You'll find that it all becomes easier for you in time. Your focus will increase, your ability to do one thing while concentrating on another will become more pronounced."

Eiden felt reassured. Everything was going as it should.

"What will we be doing today?" he asked with barely tamed enthusiasm.

"First off, instead of going against remotes, I'd like to have the two of you begin by sparring against each other. Your adaptability and ingenuity against a live opponent will help keep you from falling into patterns." Zari--who was now balancing on her other foot--looked a little worried, but she nodded.

Eiden's eyebrows shot up at the suggestion of live sparring. He didn't know if he was ready, though even he had noticed his speed and reflexes improving. Yet, the idea also somehow excited him, as though he was being invested with a new level of trust. He looked to Zari, she seemed worried at the prospect. He recalled watching her during practice, she was quite good, though their styles were drastically different. He tried to reassure her with his eyes, he knew that if she were to act with confidence she would do well. And, more than that, he was coming to realize that his own confidence was, in part, due to her faith in him, and he couldn't help but reciprocate.

He turned back to Jae Dyn.

"Would we have time for breakfast, Master?" he asked

"I think I can make that allowance," Jae Dyn said with a smile. She gestured back toward the Temple entrance. "Let's go see what marvel Orn has whipped up this morning."

---

"Training in Earnest, Part 2"
By: Eiden (PC)
Jae Dyn Brael (PC)
Zari Zathmir (NPC+)

Location: Jedi Temple
Date: Selene 21, 5 ABY

***

As the three of them walked into the commissary the aromas of well prepared foods wafted on the air. Eiden could smell cured meats, and eggs, fresh vegetables, and more.

They walked into the kitchen where Orn was working hard as usual. They took trays, and Orn served each of them up a piping hot meal. Eiden had also elected to take a couple of pieces of fresh meshu fruit from a large bowl that had been sitting out.

He left the kitchen and found a place for them to sit while Jae Dyn and Zari found anything else they had wanted for their morning meal.

"I love the way he makes eggs," Zari said as she settled into a chair. "And he knows so many ways to make them too. So I really have to fight against Eiden?"

Jae Dyn smiled. "Today, yes."

"But he's got longer arms than me," Zari said as she nibbled at a piece of melon.

"Yes, but you're a quick little monkey," her mentor added.

"Well, yeah...but..."

"You'll do fine, my dear," Jae Dyn said. "You've been making a lot of progress lately."

"Don't think of it as a 'fight', Zari," Eiden said, his concern obvious in his voice. he could feel her unease, and he felt uncomfortable at being the source of it. "It's just practice, we both need it, and I'm sure that you'll do well." He began to realize that it troubled him greatly when Zari was distressed. What does that mean? he thought.

"Okay," Zari said as she looked between the two of them. "I guess the only way I'll get better is by challenging myself, right?"

Jae Dyn smiled. "That's the sprit," she said. "And perfectly correct as well. Would you prefer to spar inside or outside?"

"Outside," Zari said. "I like the sunshine and it smells nice in all the trees."

Eiden grinned.

"It also plays to your strengths," he chided as he finished his eggs. "While you're hopping between branches I'll be stuck on the ground," he went on through the mouthful, adding a wry wink.

"I'd only do that if you keep hitting me with your lightsaber," Zari said with a grin.

Eiden cracked a short laugh after he swallowed.

"We'll see," he said, "my bet is that I'll be coming out of this with slightly shorter hair."

---

"Training in Earnest, Part 3"
By: Eiden (PC)
Jae Dyn Brael (PC)
Zari Zathmir (NPC+)

Location: Jedi Temple
Date: Selene 21, 5 ABY

***

After Breakfast the Master and her two padawans left the temple and headed into the forest to find an adequate site for the day's training. They eventually picked a small, grassy clearing about a mile from the temple for the exercise. It was dotted with small boulders, and ringed with tall, stout trees. It was eerily quiet, as though all every living thing in the area had taken notice of what was about to happen, and found a good place to watch from.

Eiden looked around thoughtfully. He took in the terrain, the high points, the low, places where the grass got taller, meaning wetter, softer ground.

He walked over to a nearby, moss covered rock that jutted out of the earth, and shrugged off his robe.

He was still a little stiff from yesterday, so he began to stretch his tense muscles while Zari prepared herself.

Zari folded her voluminous cloak carefully and set it aside. She had limbered up before they'd gone inside to eat, and didn't require much more to be ready. She set her lightsaber to it's lowest setting and them moved to the center of the clearing. She gave Eiden a smile as he approached.

Eiden finished stretching, and was as loose as he could have been. He shook out his limbs as he approached the center of the clearing and unhooked his borrowed blade from his belt. As he did the words of the concordance of fealty rang in his mind as he had spoken them to Master Darr.

"Master Koran Darr, I take a product of your own hands into my own, knowing you entrust it to me. In taking this lightsaber, I take your trust."

Eiden set his saber to its lowest output as well, and returned Zari's smile. Then he ignited the shimmering green blade, and took his customary low stance, blade out in front, perpendicular to his arm, and off to the right side, other hand behind his back.

Zari took a two-handed grip on her lightsaber. Her body was angled slightly to the side, legs crouched, and her blade held close to her body. With a snap-hiss the blue blade emerged from the hilt to cast a cobalt glow across her features. She concentrated on Eiden, watching his body, but focused on his eyes. She let her senses expand around herself, stretching out through the Force to encompass the clearing. Once ready, she began to edge to the side, circling around Eiden as he did the same.

As Eiden circled he drew closer. He could sense the impending clash as though it were a shadowy image in his vision. The possibilities diverged from there, and it almost became a cacophony of likely events as the differing circumstances spread out in his mind.

He decided to seize the initiative.

Eiden sprang from his back leg, appearing to attack high, but directing his saber low, at Zari's forward leg.

Through the Force, Zari saw the feint for what it was. As if a hand were guiding hers, her weapon dropped low to catch his. She pushed herself back and counterattacked. His blade was there, green clashing against blue. She twisted aside, dropping back into a defensive posture as she brought her blade back to center.

Eiden pressed the initiative, feinting at the midsection. When Zari's saber came to block he redirected the attack at her leg once again.

Zari extended her arms and felt the jarring clash as her blade met Eiden's. She swept his blade to the side, and launched herself backwards. She tucked into a roll, propelled with Force-enhanced strength, and landed several meters from Eiden. She brought her blade up and readied for his next attack as a trickle of sweat began working its way down her spine.

Eiden pursued with force-aided speed, meeting Zari as she landed. They engaged in a flurry of swipes an parries. Eiden made attack after attack, aiming low, trying to keep her defence centered low. Then he used his strength and knocked her blade aside in order to stab at her shoulder.

Zari let out a yelp of surprise and found herself twisting away from his blade. The weapon brushed at the fabric of her tunic as she dropped away. She kicked out and felt the solid impact of her foot hitting his shin, but he didn't move nearly as much as she'd hoped he would. As she completed a tumble to the ground, her blade was drawn back in to defend as she called in a burst of the Force to launch herself back onto her feet.

Backpedaling away, Zari thought briefly of heading to the treetops, but with as close as Eiden was, he'd be able to get to her before she could get away. She had to maintain her defense and hope he gave her an opening. She had doubts though because her defense was definitely not as good as his offense.

Her kick had briefly brought Eiden to one knee. He looked up and smiled again, though this one was different somehow, almost predatory.

He stood back up and sank back into his opening stance, indicating that it was now Zari's turn to make the first move.

Zari adjusted her stance to begin an attack, seeing through the Force the path her lightsaber would take. With a flourish of her blade, she charged forward. The cuts she attempted were basic but fast, alternating high then low.

Eiden backpedaled, parrying the high strikes with small, deliberate moves. When Zari cam in low he parried once, then sidestepped and turned the second parry into a riposte aimed at her left arm.

"Ow!" Zari looked down at her arm and noted the slightly singed fabric. "I knew I should have jumped up in a tree!"

Eiden deactivated his blade and rubbed his wrist. He took a moment to reply. He felt something during the spar, he was enjoying locking blades with another person. He was puzzled by the feeling.

"I'm sorry," he finally said, I thought the low setting didn't do that. We'll get you a new tunic when we get back to the temple. Race you!" he added, his genial smile returning.

He looked to Jae Dyn.

"That is if we're done, of course, Master."

"Go ahead," Jae Dyn said with a smile. "I'll catch up with you soon. Meet in the Meditation Room in thirty minutes."

"Yes, Master," Eiden said. Then he looked to Zari, a wry grin crossing his face just before he took off running, headed back to the temple.

As the younger Padawan saw he was about to take off, she darted off herself. The jungles of Agarra had certainly taught her how to run, and despite his longer legs, she'd definitely give Eiden a run for his money.

Eiden broke through the underbrush with a force aided leap, and hit the ground running again. He found a worn trail and began weaving his way down it at top speed.

Slightly behind and above him, he could hear Zari rustling through the trees, using large branches, and well placed jumps to help her avoid the more tenuous terrain. Eiden could see that she was already overtaking him.

A few seconds later and she was past him, bounding between the ground and the low branches, and back.

He redoubled his efforts. But soon, Zari was just a bouncing figure in the distance, soon to be obscured by trees. Suddenly, Eiden sensed something, an almost phantasmal vision of impending danger.

He tucked into a roll just in time to avoid the pounce of a large creature. He came up, lightsaber in hand and ready to activate as he spun on his attacker. He faced an enormous beast covered in short wiry fur. Its body was stout and sinuous; compact, like a compressed spring. Its head was framed by a set of wickedly curved tusks, one to each side of its massive maw filled with jagged teeth. Its eyes were focused, intense, and as Eiden looked over the rest of its form he took note of rib bones clearly visible beneath the skin. He hasn't eaten in a long time, he thought through the haze of adrenaline.

The dream he'd had last night began to repeat in his head.

...The Zakkeg's horned and spiky form came into view from the shadows for a split second, it's massive jaws open wide as it leapt at Eiden....

Eiden rolled to the side, the Zakkeg's claws leaving long scratches on his chest plate, but nothing more. Eiden came back to his feet, loosing a volley of blaster bolts into the Zakkeg's side. The creature roared with pain and fury, and spun on Eiden, preparing for another leap. Eiden reacted quickly, however, and showered it with more blaster fire. A second later the Zakkeg crumpled to the ground...

"The force can calm even the most viscous among us," the familiar voice suddenly rang in Eiden's mind, interrupting his recall of the dream.

Just then the creature leapt again. Eiden dove to his left, trying to avoid the wild strike. The creature, however, reached out with a clawed paw as it flew by, catching Eiden's side with a rake.

Eiden rolled back to his feet, clutching his side, which was now bleeding. He tried to push his fear aside, to let all things fall away, to feel the force.

Time seemed to slow as calm overtook his emotions, and his focus became more conscious. Eiden could feel the frantic hunger raging within his adversary. He could also feel his connection to the beast through the force.

He took his hand away from his wound, raising it to the animal, and reached out through the force. After a few moments the creature slowly released its tension and stood up from its crouched position as though confused by the sudden change. It took a deep breath, then turned and lopped away.

Eiden sank to his knees, the pain of his wound suddenly descending on him. His breath came in short, furtive spurts, the cut had been deep.

After he took a few moments to collect himself, he stood back up, cinching his tunic a little tighter in hopes of staunching the bleeding enough to allow him to get back to the temple. Then he started off on his original path.

Just ahead of Eiden as he wound his way through the trees, a lithe figure dropped into the path. This time, it wasn't a beast, but Zari. "Eiden," she called. "You're slo-- Oh, you're hurt!" She rushed to him, not quite sure what she could do to help, but knowing she had to do something. "Come on, we have to get back to the Temple."

Eiden managed a half-hearted smile.

"I agree," he grunted through the pain as he put an arm across Zari's shoulders.

---

"Training in Earnest, Part 4"
By: Eiden (PC)
Zari Zathmir (NPC+)
Jae Dyn Brael (PC)

Location: Jedi Temple
Date: Selene 21, 5 ABY

***

Eiden and Zari limped back to the temple slowly, taking frequent stops to allow Eiden to subdue the pain. By the time they arrived, Eiden knew that they were late for their meditation with Master Brael, and she'd probably be wondering where they were.

The plodded through the large doors and slowly wound their way to the medical quarters, allowing the droids to begin administering bacta. They also dispatched another student to let Master Brael know of their location.

"That looks really bad," Zari said as she peered at his side. "We had creatures on Agarra with claws that could do that. I almost fell out of a tree when I saw one this one time. It was huge, but it was on the ground. They could climb, but usually didn't. I hurried home and didn't go out for a day after that. "It's a good thing we have a big supply of bacta here." She grinned up at him, hoping to cheer his mood and take his mind from the wound the beast's claws had left.

Eiden winced as the droids applied the bacta to his wound, but he also seemed distracted.

"It was amazing," he said, almost absently, "I took away the creature's rage. I felt the force." He turned to Zari. "Not only that, but I remembered a part of my past!"

"You did? That's great! What did you remember?"

"It must have been something from my childhood, I couldn't have been more than in my teens," he began, "I was in a dense forest, and it was raining really hard. It must have been where I grew up, because it felt normal. I was hunting, I remembered that I had just finished building a suit of armor, which was some kind of ritual, and that I was sent into the forest to hunt for a large creature, a Boma." More details began to come to him as he recounted the memory. "My clan would only accept me as a warrior if I was successful, and that was very important to me..."

Just then Eiden saw Jae Dyn walk into the room over Zari's shoulder.

"Sorry we're late, Master," he said jokingly, wincing again after a half-hearted laugh.

Jae Dyn gave him a smile and moved to the side to examine his wound. "So," she said, "were you?"

"No, I'm afraid," Eiden said as she looked over the gash in his side, "I was ambushed by a Zakkeg, which had been stalking the same Boma I had located." He considered the circumstances for a moment. "In much the same way that I was attacked by a rather nasty looking creature today. I remember finishing off the Zakkeg with my blaster, but nothing afterward. Today I was able to ward off the attack by using the force. Somehow that just felt like the right thing to do."

"It sounds like you did the right thing," Jae Dyn said. "And the wound should heal well."

The droid made a noise of concurrence as it set to bandaging the wound with a bacta patch and then a gauzy pad.

"Do we still have to meditate now," Zari asked with a look up at Jae Dyn. She had moved to his other side as he'd told his story, and now sat cross-legged on the infirmary bed. "I think Eiden needs his strength after his ordeal, and a trip to see what Orn has to eat is necessary."

Jae Dyn laughed. "Well, you may stop by, but afterwards, I think meditation is a good idea. It could even help Eiden's wound heal quicker."

The droid quickly finished bandaging the wound, and Eiden suddenly noted that the pain was gone, the bacta was quickly setting to work.

He threw his legs over the side of the bed, and hopped up to his feet.

"Almost good as new," he said, looking to Zari. "Let's grab a spot of lunch, it's not easy to meditate on an empty stomach."

Later as they walked toward the commissary, Eiden spotted the entryway to the temple's library, and a thought jumped into his mind. He had been disappointed in his performance with the conventionally constructed lightsaber he had been given.

"This should only take a moment," he said as he led the way into the library. He walked up to the index computer and keyed in a quick search, then proceeded to peruse the indicated shelves. Soon after he pulled down a worn tome bearing the title The Finer Points of Lightsaber Construction, By Master Odan-Urr. "Perfect," he said.

"Just like a man," Zari teased. "Almost gets beat by a girl, so he blames his weapon and has to make a new one."

Eiden couldn't help but laugh.

"I've got to keep my edge somehow," he chided, "besides we should both be studying this, it's about time you built your own as well."

"I want either a pink one like Master Laedra Vorrel or a purple one like Master Brael," Zari said with a grin.

"I'd just like to rebuild the one you found me with, I have no idea what it's going to look like." He thought for a moment as they headed out of the library, book under his arm. "All I really know is, it's tied to my past in a deeper way, I just can't figure out why."

"I think you'll need a new crystal," Zari said. "Yours kind of looked like it got overcooked a little. But, it sounds like you're remembering more things, so maybe you'll remember that too."

"Right," he said as they finally arrived in the commissary for a light lunch. He grabbed a tray and they headed into the kitchen

"I think I can rebuild it, the crystal I have doesn't look damaged, so we'll see."

"It looked different though," Zari said. "It wasn't shiny like the one Master Laedra used. Her lightsaber is pink. Maybe yours is an evil crystal. You'll put it in your lightsaber and your eyes will glow red and you'll chop me in half!"

Eiden laughed.

"You listen to too many stories," he kidded as they sat down carrying trays of sandwiches. "Have you gone foraging for a crystal yet? Or, will you use a synthetic?"

"I can't really leave the planet, and I don't think there are any crystals here, so I'll have to use a synthetic one to start."

Eiden nodded as he ate his sandwich.

"You never know," he said after swallowing a bite. "I've heard about a few caves and caverns nearby. I think it would be fun to go have a look sometime. What do you think?

"I'd like that," Zari said with a smile. "I've been in them a few times, but not in awhile. Maybe they have crystals we can use."

"Hopefully," Eiden said. "You want to try tomorrow? Master Brael said something about a rest day..."

Zari nodded. "That'd be fun," she said with a grin.

During the conversation, Eiden finished his sandwich, and Zari hers. Then Eiden looked, out a nearby window and saw that the sun was tilting just past noon.

"Meditation time," he said, "much easier when not on an empty stomach," he added, grinning back.

"Too much though and I just want to go take a nap," Zari said as she carried her plate to the kitchen area. "I don't think Master Brael would like it if I fell asleep while we were meditating. I'm glad I didn't eat too much."

"And I'll bet Master Brael will be too," Eiden laughed as they left the commissary, headed for the practice rooms.

---

"Padawan and Master"
By Gideon Kherris
and Jeron Kes-Allia

Location: Jedi Temple
Date: Selene 21st, 5ABY

***

"Jeron Kes-Allia," Gideon announced as he entered the training room. Gideon found Jeron experimenting with a training blade. He was pleased to find the young man taking some initiative while he awaited word of his future with the Jedi, even if he was jerking the blade about like a gaderfi staff. Gideon could tell that Jeron had much interest the lightsaber, most students did, and he was raised in a culture that was based in part of becoming a warrior. A Jedi was so much more of course, as Gideon had previously explained.

Though having only trained one Padawan, Vaya, Gideon had various experiences in aiding the development of others. He knew that there were common elements to a Padawans training, though each mentor tailored the training by their own experience and philosophies - as well as to what suited the student. Gideon had put much thought into how to begin Jeron's training and he looked forward to the experience.

"Master Darr and Master Vorrel have concurred that you shall be trained, Jeron," Gideon informed him. "They have asked me to take charge of your training. Welcome to the first day of the rest of your life, Padawan."

Jeron deactivated the training blade. What fascinated him most was the weapon's cutting power - the real weapon anyway - while so light. The balance was off, as the blade had no weight, which made it more difficult to wield for someone inexperienced. It was most certainly a weapon of some flair, though also elegant. He looked at Master Gideon Kherris and bowed. "The Jedi shall be my clan, now and forever."

"A nice way to look at it," Gideon replied with a nod. "The Jedi are more than just an order of peacekeepers, we are a brotherhood, a clan. We are like family in the Force; learning with one another, from one another, striving for what is right, even fighting alongside each other- always for the common good and never just for the self. Not many people outside of our order can understand what it truly means to serve through the Force, nor do they always understand the extent of the sacrifices a Jedi will make in service of such ideals greater than the self. There was a time, not so long ago, when we learned that we had but only each other, and there were so precious few of us."

Gideon used the Force to call a training saber from the wall. It detached from its magnetic hold with ease and elegantly arched through the air to his awaiting hand, its green blade igniting at once. Nodding to Jeron to ignite his own, Gideon took a basic high guard stance. "A Jedi's lightsaber is a most powerful and elegant weapon, not as clumsy or random as a blaster and much more refined than that of any traditional melee or bladed weapon. A Jedi will learn that the lightsaber becomes an extension of the self, and not just a mere tool. Your first lesson with the lightsaber Jeron, do not ever ignite its blade unless you intend on using it," he instructed.

"Never use your blade unless you absolutely must. A Jedi does not attack out of anger, hatred, fear or for the lust of battle. A Jedi attacks in defense of self and in protection of others. While it may be altruistic to die for another, and there may come a day when you must lay down your life for another soul, you do no one much justice to get yourself killed. A Jedi honors life, defends life, even the lives of your enemy. In time you will learn," he said as he danced around the training room with his lightsaber, showing Jeron some basic moves.

Jeron circled the training room, opposite from Master Kherris, as he listened to the words. Never to use a weapon unless totally necessary, and use it only to grant protection of self or others... But not to use it in anger or hatred, nor risk his own life in a suicidal manner. If all these things were to be kept in mind, Jeron wondered how a Jedi drew the line. For surely enough, these were subjective things that were certainly particular and personal. It seemed that all would depend on context... Still, Jeron forced to remind himself that most questions would be answered in time.

"You must become one with your lightsaber, allowing the Force to help guide your hand. In combat you will be able to sense your surroundings and the intentions of your foe, allowing you the upper hand. You will learn to hone your reflexes, sometimes you have but a split second to make your move."

Jeron heard and nodded. He closed his eyes for a brief moment and breathed deep. He started to clear his mind and open up his senses to what surrounded him. Opening his eyes in a slow fashion, he looked at Master Gideon Kherris. They were both still circling the room, and Jeron kept repeating the lightsaber movements that the Jedi Master did, only now the repeating of the movements seemed slightly easier, as if Jeron could almost feel what Gideon was doing...or perhaps it was easier because Jeron wasn't thinking on what to do, as if mind and body were detached while remaining the same.

"Master, if the Force is a living thing, and if it guides a Jedi's hand in battle and seems to serve a greater good, then how can it be that it allows a Jedi to be tainted and to use it for own personal gain? Wouldn't that make it that the man controls the Force rather than the Force controlling the man?" Jeron asked.

Without stopping the exercise to test the Padawans ability to maintain focus, Gideon replied: "The Jedi and the Force share an intimate symbiosis . The Force is part of nature, and nature by definition knows no evil. That is what a Jedi strives to learn. All things have a balance within the Universe. The Force is an entity that does not recognize good or bad, right or wrong, as we like to define it. It is used and interpreted by those who can connect with it. We are offered great power and insight, we choose how to wield it. No matter how righteous we strive to be we are imperfect beings Jeron, sometimes we falter, and sometimes there are those who fall far from grace. To succumb to your emotions and use the gifts that the Force offer for evil and self gain will pay a horrible price. All things are relative, remember. There is a cause and effect for every action. You have very good questions Padawan, your insights will serve you well," he said, adding praise.

"Thank you, Master..." Jeron replied, bowing his head slightly. "I do try to pay attention, though sometimes it is hard to comprehend such matters. Human nature isn't easily understood. And perhaps not easily tamed. Does a Jedi not feel for others? Things such as love and affection, are they forbidden?"

"The galaxy is made up of many different beings and their cultures, each with their own philosophies that are remarkably similar to one another, yet with distinct aspects that make the universe of people so diverse. Often we as people are quite contradictory, but there are elements that make life precious. A person can spend their entire life trying to decipher such questions, and in most respects the Jedi spend their entire life in the pursuit of such wisdom," Gideon answered. "Jedi do feel for others, while we strive to control and not act out rashly from our emotions- we are not uncompassionate. No matter how neutral we try to be, we are at the core just as imperfect as another being. Through the knowledge we gain from the Force we learn to be better people, to set an example, but we falter from time to time. It was once believed that to hold affections like love for another person could be dangerous. To have such attachments can alter your judgement, that is why the Jedi of old forbade such attachments and affections. However, affection and human nature are part of what we are, the Jedi of old forgot that and paid a terrible price after years of separating themselves from the very people they strove to serve. As with many things you will learn and the paths that are put in front of you, Jeron, in time you will have to decide for yourself as to whether you serve the Force best by foregoing such affections and attachments that others share and often times take for granted. The question will remain, were you to have such affections and emotional attachments to another, could you still make the hard decisions required of a Jedi? Even at the cost of that relationship? Or even the of the life of the one you love?" he asked rhetorically.

After a few moments more of experimenting with the lightsabers, Gideon turned his off and said: "That will be enough for now. Let us go into the city and experience a piece of what it is we both sacrifice of ourselves to be Jedi and strive to defend for others."

Jeron turned his training saber off and nodded. "Very well, Master. Let me just collect some personal items I would like to carry with me," he said.

---

"Going to Ground, Part 1"
by Eiden
Jae Dyn Brael
Zari Zathmir

Location: Jedi Temple and New Plouton, Tae'Karada
Date: Selene 21, 5 ABY

***

It was silent in the training room.

Master Brael and her two charges sat, quietly meditating as orange beams of light from the low-hanging sun cast through the high windows to strike the far wall.

Eiden breathed deeply, allowing his consciousness to drift, to become diffuse as the force took its place. The encounter earlier that day had somehow shown him a deeper, more instinctual, connection to the force, and now it was less difficult than before to reach out and feel its ebb and flow.

As he drifted, he felt an odd tugging in his mind, as though he were treading water in a large pond when suddenly a heavy rock was tossed in, the ripples disturbing the once smooth surface.

He slowly opened his eyes.

"Master...?"

"I feel it as well," Jae Dyn said.

At Eiden's side, Zari was looking around wide-eyed. A worried expression furrowed her grow and she chewed on one lip, but surprisingly managed to keep herself silent.

A moment later, Koran Darr stepped into the training room. "Jae Dyn," he said as he approached her directly. "There is danger on its way. The Royal Palace in Arcadia has branded the Jedi as outlaws. We just received a communication from the High Princess. It appears she's no longer in charge there, but that will have to wait. For now, they are sending troops to the Temple, and they intend to take back Nieme and Dani."

"Dani isn't here," Jae Dyn stated.

"And neither will we be," Master Darr added. "These are men and women just doing their duty. We will not fight them. There is something dark in play at the Palace, but I can't see through the clouds surrounding it. We are going to evacuate the Temple. Laedra and I will take as many of the Padawans as we can. I will not tell you where we are going, for the sake of security. The other Masters will go where we can. We'll figure out a means to communicate amongst one another later."

Jae Dyn nodded. "I understand, Master."

"Good," Koran said with a weary smile. "May the Force be with you, all of you. Stay safe."

And with that, he was gone, leaving Master and Padawans alone again.

"Time to leave," Jae Dyn said. "We will go to the city. I believe there are vacancies in the building where Keeve lives. We can stay there for now. I don't believe we have time to grab anything else. We have to hurry."

Zari was on her feet, and helped Eiden to his. His injury was still painful, she could see. "I hope Orn will be safe."

Eiden stood from the pad he had been sitting on, wincing slightly.

"I'm pretty sure Orn can take care of himself," he said. He turned to Jae Dyn. "Do we have time to gather our things? And who's Keeve?" His questions came in short succession as he heard more bustle beginning in the corridors.

"Keeve is a good friend," Jae Dyn answered. "And we don't have time. We'll take an alternate route away from the Temple. The main path will certainly be watched."

"There's only one thing I need to get," Eiden said as he bolted from the room. He ran down the corridors, dodging other students and masters along the way, his wound giving him grief with every step. A short time later he burst into his quarters and dove straight for the drawer that held his personal, though non-functional lightsaber, which he quickly clipped to his belt before breaking back into a run, back toward the training rooms.

When Eiden reached the training room, he found only Zari waiting for him. "Master Brael went out to get the speeder started," she said as she reached out and grabbed his hand. "We have to hurry." Despite her worry, she gave him a smile and started forward, as if she'd be able to drag him along if he didn't follow himself.

"I'm right behind you," Eiden said as he snatched up the book from the Library he'd left on the floor.

They ran to the outbuilding where the vehicles were kept, Jae Dyn had already started the speeder, and was parked and waiting as other conveyances sped off around her.

Eiden and Zari piled in.

"Let's go," Eiden said as he settled into the back seat.

Jae Dyn glanced at the lightsaber hanging from Eiden's belt and smiled. Then, she spun the speeder around and raced off on a path that would lead them deeper into the forest and keep them far from the road as well as the approaching danger.

---

"Going to Ground, Part 2"
by Eiden
Jae Dyn Brael
Zari Zathmir

Location: New Plouton, Tae'Karada
Date: Selene 21, 5 ABY

***

"I will secure a place for you to live in the same building, Eiden," Master Jae Dyn Brael said as she and her two students sped along an ill used road leading to New Plouton. "Zari and I have rooms in Keeve's suite, but we will spend our days training. Once we are settled, we can do some shopping for provisions and other essentials."

"Sounds good," Eiden said, "I might also be able to get some help from my friends at the spaceport. You'd be surprised at the kinds of things I've run across there..."

He trailed off as they sped through the tree-line. Though it had actually been less than a week since he came to the temple, leaving New Plouton behind, it had felt much longer, almost like it had been another life altogether. He knew it was going to be difficult explaining things to Marl, but he also knew that Marl was someone in a position to help.

"How long until we get there?" he asked after a few moments.

"Shouldn't be much longer now," Zari said. "Five minutes tops."

***

A short time later the speeder glided into a large, below ground, parking structure underneath a towering building that stood among the many other that reached skyward in the metropolitan landscape of New Plouton.

After they came to a stop Eiden climbed out and shrugged of his robe and removed both his own lightsaber and the one he'd been entrusted with from Master Darr from his belt. He wrapped his robe over his arm, hiding both weapons underneath the heavy brown folds.

"This is it," Jae Dyn said. "Zari, take Eiden upstairs. I'll make arrangements for an apartment. I'll come get you."

With that, she was gone.

Zari had removed most of her robes, as well, leaving her in what appeared to just be a pair of tan pants and shirt. "Come on," she said with a grin. "I'll show you my room."

"A home away from home, eh," Eiden joked as he followed her to the lift.

The ride up was fast, and the lift's huge window offered an expansive view of the city. Eiden could even see the bustling spaceport. He found it odd that there were still ships coming in, but none going out. What's going on, he thought.

Zari grabbed Eiden's hand as the lift stopped. "Come on," she said. "Did you want something to drink? I don't know if you really want to see my room or not. I share it with Talara. I think she's supposed to get back today. You have to meet her."

"I'll take some water," Eiden said as Zari led him through the palatial apartment, "and I'd be very interested in meeting Talara, I've already heard so much about her."

"When she gets home," Zari said as she grabbed a glass and began filling it with water, "I'm sure she'll do some sparring with you. Just be careful though, she's really pretty so you might fall in love with her."

Eiden nearly spat his water across the room at the statement, but was able to regain control barely in time.

"Uh--okay," he said after swallowing down the water, "but I don't think I'll have much trouble, considering that I've been in the presence of beauty every day of my training so far."

Zari grinned at him. "I'm sure Master Jae Dyn would appreciate hearing that."

Eiden just chuckled and shook his head.

"So, let's have a look at your room."

"Sure," Zari said, motioning her to follow. She led him to a door that was decorated artfully with a jungle scene with both Zari and Talara's names rendered within the vines and leaves. Inside were two beds, one stacked atop the other. Overall, it was kept fairly tidy with a desk in one corner, a pair of dressers in the other, and what appeared to be a large closet hidden behind double sliding doors. "Here it is. My bed's on top. Tala will be on the bottom if she decides to live here, that's why I put her name on the door." She grinned at him.

"It literally is a home away from home," Eiden said as he took in the accommodations. "Someone went to great trouble to make this as comfortable for you as possible."

"Keeve started it, and Kim really helped a lot," Zari said. "I did most of it, I think. They got all the stuff, but I sort of put everything where it was supposed to be. It's really nice, and I get my privacy if I need it. Though, I haven't spent a lot of time." She looked up at him and smiled. She reached out tentatively and took his hand, slowly leading him over to the desk where some more of her drawings were, including a sketch of the one she and Kim were going to paint across the wall behind the bed. "So, you like it, Eiden?"

"Yes," he said as he continued looking over the surroundings, "It reminds me a bit of a place I've seen in my dreams, though with much less rain." He looked down at the drawings. "Future plans, I see," he said of them, "your imagination is boundless, perhaps it will rub off on me in time," he added, with a warm smile.

Zari grinned happily at him. "And, maybe your muscles will rub off on me," she said. After a moment, she realized a possible meaning for what she'd just said, and blushed furiously.

Eiden smiled and was about to say something when Jae Dyn walked into the room.

"Master," he said straightening up, "have you found out anything?"

"The Jedi have gone into hiding for now, as you know," Jae Dyn said. "Earlier today, it sounds like reports of our giving asylum to Dani and Nieme was spread throughout the populace, and public opinion of the Jedi crashed. I don't have conclusive reports yet, but the High Princess was pressured into declaring Jedi outlaws, and they sent troops to apprehend us. I doubt that the troops were meant to do anything other than force us to fight them, which would then further damage the situation. Master Novix has a particular talent that will allow him to find us, and he'll be acting as a liaison between the different cells of Jedi. For now, we will remain here and continue our training." She held up a keycard. "Your new apartment will be ten floors down from here, and that's where we will meet for training. Zari and I will remain here, using the rooms Keeve has provided for us."

"Master, can I visit Eiden when I want," Zari asked.

"Of course," Jae Dyn answered. "Make certain to keep out of your Jedi robes, and lightsabers are only to be used inside Eiden's apartment. Not even removing them from there would be best. We need to ensure that we don't get caught. Eiden, the apartment is yours. The only catch is that enough room for training and meditation must be kept free. Otherwise, you may do as you like. We can purchase appropriate furnishings and other essentials if you'd like."

"Can I have a room in Eiden's apartment too?"

Jae Dyn smiled. "If it's alright with Eiden."

"Absolutely it is," Eiden said without missing a beat. "Why don't we go down now and check it out?"

"You two go ahead," Jae Dyn said. "I need to contact Kimara and let her know what's happening."

The ride down was very fast, and the lift doors opened onto a short corridor lined with a few doors. Eiden looked down at the key Jae Dyn gave him and found the appropriate door. It slid open almost silently, revealing a large, though still smaller than the one they had just left, unfurnished apartment.

"After you," he said to Zari with a grin.

"It's so...empty," Zari said as she wandered further inside. "I bet that room is big enough for a training area. Oh, this hall leads to the bedrooms, I think."

Eiden walked through the large main room as he behind her. This is rather big, he thought as he put down his robes and other things he'd brought from the temple in the huge room. Then he walked down the hall, following Zari. There were two other rooms and a lavatory at the end of the hall, and Zari was in the larger of the two, looking around.

"I imagine this is where I'll be sleeping," he said, "I might still be able to get my old stuff from the starport to put in here."

"I can help you bring it here," Zari said as she turned around to look up at him. "If you want, I can help you decorate. Whatever you want. I bet Kim would help too, she loves painting."

"I'd like that," Eiden replied, "the place could definitely use a splash of color. Why don't we get started tomorrow?"

"I'd like that," Zari said with a grin. She looked around the room, then back to Eiden. "You don't have a bed for tonight. I'd offer you mine, but Talara will be back today and she'll probably stay with us since she can't go back to the Temple. Besides, I don't think Master Jae Dyn or Keeve would be very happy about you sleeping in my bed."

"There's still enough day left to make arrangements for a bed," Jae Dyn said as she entered the room on silent feet. "And, as long as you weren't in the bed at the time, I don't see an issue. Talara and Keeve have returned, but there were problems. Dargus Kandran was killed. They're currently at Zenarr Inc. and will return tonight. The attack happened shortly after they landed."

Zari frowned as she watched Jae Dyn, and could see the emotional cracks in her calm exterior. "Master, are you alright?"

It took a moment for Jae Dyn Brael to firm up her emotional defenses before she managed a response in a shaky voice. "No, I'm not, but I will manage. Sari and Yara aren't old enough to understand that their father is dead." She took a breath and let it out. "It was unexpected."

Zari reached out and put a hand on Jae Dyn's forearm. "I'm sorry, Master."

"Thank you," Jae Dyn said, then gave both Zari and Eiden a smile. "Come on, let's go see if we can find you a bed."

Eiden stood mute, no idea how to respond to the situation except to simply go along.

He followed them back out to the lift. The trip back down to the garage was silent, and Eiden just watched the odd goings on at the spaceport again. It really began to trouble him, something was going on, something bigger than any of them knew.

Zari nudged him with her elbow. "What are you thinking about?"

He nodded to the large complex across the cityscape.

"Look," he said, "something isn't right. Ships are landing as usual, but do you see any taking off? I used to work there, things aren't normal."

She did look, and saw what he was pointing out. "I bet Talara and the others are involved in that somehow," she said. "They were supposed to be coming back today, and...I bet it has something to do with the attack on the Temple. I bet they don't want any of us getting off the planet."

---

"Outcasts, Part 1"
By Gideon Kherris, Jedi Master
Jeron Kes-Allia, Padawan

Location: New Plouton
Date: Selene 21st, 5ABY

***

Gideon and Jeron had walked from the forests surrounding New Plouton into the city. For the most part the walk was one of peaceful reflection. Jeron had much to think over, as any Padawan would; Gideon too had many thoughts on his mind- though his were darker.

It was not his state-of-mind, rather the foreboding intuition the Force continually and naggingly impressed upon him. Stronger yet since he had arrived on Tae'Karada, the Force pulsated with an elusive shadow that increasingly weighed down upon the Jedi Master's shoulders. Try as he might, Gideon could not pin-point what was being warned. Though it had been all over the news; the public outcry of the apparent harboring of the Jedi's two failed Padawans Dani and Nieme by the Jedi- Gideon could not foresee why that would cause such a troubling ripple through the Force. He could understand the public's concern, as the two former self-proclaimed Empresses had caused much havoc.

He also could understand the Jedi's decision to keep the two women, they were one of their own and if there were anybody to properly assess and rehabilitate the two, it was the Jedi. It was always a tricky game as such, Gideon's only thoughts on the matter was that it was a foolish mistake on the part of the Masters to allow Dani outside of the temple. One of their own or not, she had committed crimes and he thought quite adamantly that she should not have been allowed such freedom. Now the Jedi would have to deal with the fall-out.

As the two entered into the city limits they left behind the peacefulness of nature for the bustling chaos of urban civilization. The two Jedi blended in, Gideon left his robe, the only Jedi apparel he truly wore, and he had helped Jeron to fashion some clothes from the temple; something aside from his Tusken garb. He could tell the attire did not fully sit well with the young man, probably for more reasons than the obvious of Jeron's natural attachment to his past; of what he had always been.

"Things do not define us Padawan," Gideon had told him as they had first struck out. "An old saying: 'Clothes a man does not make'." After having made their way into the city he said: "You see Padawan, people are by nature slaves to their own desires. In general their lives are dictated by that of those around them; they strive for success of power, materialism, self-worth. They seek to have what their neighbors have, to them it is a signification of their achievement and symbolism of their self-worth. It is these ideals and these things that are so often the object of people's ill-will towards one another. They become jealous, they covet, they act irrationally in such pursuits to the point that produces anger, hatred, loathing, theft, assault, murder, even wars have been fought over for the sake of materialism and the desire for power and control over others and what they possess," he said as he pointed out the shops that displayed goods, the holo-commercials that glorified ownership and subliminally as well as out-right showcased that a person was better than the next with such items and that their self-worth was not up to standard without such things. "You will find such criteria in most every culture to one degree or another Jeron."

Jeron looked around. The streets were crammed with people all over. Most were human, though there were also some other species from other planets. They all seemed too busy in their own thoughts to even acknowledge those that passed by them, as if it was unimportant. This wasn't very appealing to Jeron, not near as much as the forests around the Temple or the calm beauty of the deserts. Still, the tall buildings were a magnificent display of what people were capable of building, though it had desecrated nature for sure when they built it.

Jeron heard Jedi Master Kherris and sighted at first. He touched his clothes, which seemed to resemble much some of the garments that smugglers wore in Tatooine, only without all the gear attached to it. Much different from the Jedi attire due to the current matters. As it seemed, it was better to pass unnoticed. Jeron disliked the garments, but said nothing. Still, inside the small duffel bag he carried he had stashed his Tusken garments and mask and had taken his gaderffi apart and placed it inside as well. It just didn't feel right for him to leave it behind just like that.

"If all these things are origin to such ill-matters, why not simply ban them from society in general? Wouldn't it be easier to live with one another if there was no materialism, no source of such bad feelings to one another?" Jeron commented. "In my former tribe, there were little personal belongings. Instead, we would share what we had for the good of the tribe. And that is one of the Tusken's greatest honours... To serve well one's tribe."

"There are societies who try to live without such pursuits," Gideon replied. "Civilization is not all bad, like most things in nature it has its deserving qualities. As I have said before you take the good with the bad, it is the circle of life. As Jedi we try to transcend from those things that set society back so that we may serve them better. Were we to dictate how people lived their lives then we would not be their servants, rather their benefactors and that means holding power over others lives. A Jedi does not seek that. Instead, we offer our wisdom to help society grow and mature, we are often a buffer between advancement of civilization and its utter failure. Just as in nature when it is survival of the fittest, so is true of society. There is a balance we Jedi try to help maintain. We cannot work miracles and we cannot save or change everyone. But the lives we do touch in turn touch other lives, and other lives...again, all things are relative and to all things there is a balance. Being that we are just as much imperfect beings, we rely on the Force for our wisdom and guidance. Though people commit such grave injustices to themselves and one another, there are so many aspects that make mankind so precious. Each person is unique, and can bring so much peace, joy and beautiful wonders to civilization."

"And so, we Jedi would rather watch and offer counsel and guidance, and only act more intensively based on our instincts and on what we consider to be wrong...to be unbalanced," Jeron commented. "Is that true?"

A holo-vid flashed across one of the large advertising projectors that took up a considerable area of the side of a building. Gideon held up a hand in response to his Padawans question as text was scrolled across the screen in Basic and Tae'Karadan as the news reporter stated the update: "In a surprising declaration by the High Princess and by vote of the High Council, warrants for the immediate arrest and detention of the Jedi have been issued under crime of high treason for the harboring of the fugitives: former Empresses Dani and Nieme Yaresh. Recent reports and holo footage had showed the fugitive Dani and known Jedi Kael Selrid at a popular local establishment in new Plouton just days before, sparking public outcry and concern within the newly established government in regards to a cover up. Sources from the Palace state that the order comes directly from High princess Neerou herself...we are going live now as the High Princess speaks to the public..."

"I think we will attend to this conversation later Padawan," Gideon said as he squinted against the bold flashing letters of the marquis: JEDI...WANTED...FUGITIVES...ARMED AND DANGEROUS...

"We should probably get back to the others," Gideon said as he turned to head back towards the temple.

The voices from the public penetrated his ears and thoughts. The emotions had grown thick of fear and anger. He had felt these before, lived through such ignorance and misfortune. He had a really, really bad feeling about it all.

His comlink chirped. It was Vaya. "Master? Where are you?"

"I am in the city with Pad...Jeron," he replied, catching himself before using such Jedi-like words. "Please, just call me Gideon, Vaya, all things considered."

"So you have heard," she said. "We received a warning just prior to the public announcement. We are evacuating now. You need to hurry."

"Understood," he replied looking to a bewildered Jeron. "Fine a day as any to be declared fugitives. We will pace ourselves back the way we came. We are not dressed as Jedi and we are both fresh faces here. I have no doubt that we will not attract any attention. Remember Jeron, as I told Vaya, call me by name only. No need to tempt fate, as some would say."

"Very well, Gideon Kherris," Jeron nodded. He noticed that many people were watching the screens with the news. It was odd that Jedi were being considered enemies of the ruling government. "I'm confused... If the Jedi are supposed to be peace keepers, then why are they being considered as wanted criminals? I was under the impression that people regarded the Jedi with good will."

"People fear what they do not understand and are quick to judge without all the facts. That is why the Jedi always strive to offer enlightenment," Gideon replied in a hushed tone. "As for our present situation, we have not all the facts. I am sure that the government believes it has good reasons for its declaration, though foolish. The Jedi have kept two of their own who have been less-than-Jedi like, considered wanted criminals. However, being who they are, no jail could possibly ever hold them for trial or sentence. Cause and effect, yes?"

"Perhaps..." Jeron stated, unsure of whether it would be easier to simply give the government the two supposed criminals they wanted. On the other hand, he could understand why they would not. After all, it didn't matter whether the anyone would want some Tusken warrior for a supposed crime. No Tusken would deliver his brethren just like that. They would rather die protecting his family than live as a coward. "We should get back, help the others get out before matters get worse."

Gideon's com chirped again: "Yes? We'll be fine. Be safe," he said as he deactivated the comlink. "Too late," he said to Jeron as he looked around the city. There were no immediate lynch mobs, but the Jedi were still very much the talk of the town. "We are going to Thanatos."

"Thanatos?" Jeron inquired. "But what of the others?" he asked. In fact, he was thinking more on Lani than anyone else. Was she alright? Had she made it out of the Temple? He knew that she was quite capable, but if they were wanted by the government itself, where would they go?

Ultimately it seemed ironic that Jeron and Gideon should find refuge back in a city near the desert... Perhaps the desert was more a part of Jeron's life than he knew. "Thanatos isn't exactly a safe place... Besides, if Kael lives there, wouldn't government know that too? Perhaps hiding in the desert itself would prove a safer environment..."

"It may come to such," Gideon replied as they casually yet purposefully made their way down the avenue. He didn't like the idea of being separated from the others when he only held a general knowledge of the workings of all forces involved. But he was a Jedi, and not a stranger to finding his own way in unknown territory. "Thanatos will suffice for now, perhaps if Kael is there we can find out more of what is going on and how best to get back to the others. If we must flee into the desert, we shall. I don't intend on spending much time with my head in the sand."

---

"Complications, But Not Medical"
By Vincenzo Lapenta - Neurosurgeon
Sarah Lapage - Neurosurgeon (NPC+)

Location: Vincenzo's apartment, New Plouton
Date: Selene 21, 5 ABY

***

Sarah sat on the monorail from Arcadia to New Plouton, staring out of the window. For 10th time in just as many minutes she wondered why she was doing this. When her husband had called from work that he needed to go on a business trip to Corellia, she had just nodded. It wasn't the first trip, and it certainly wouldn't be the last either. She knew where she would end up, and she really wondered why she was doing it. She had never felt the urge to visit other men before, but now she had tried to stop herself, but here she was, sitting on the monorail.

Half an hour later she arrived at Vincenzo's apartment, where she rang the chime. Vincenzo had just returned from his office and answered the door dressed in only a towel, as he had just taken a shower. When he saw who was in front of him, he smiled. "Sarah, please do come in," he said, "what brings you here?"

"I don't know, Vince," she said, "I honestly don't know." She had seen him like this before, and it brought back feelings inside her that she thought were gone.

"Have a seat," he said, "I'll go and get dressed."

Somehow he simply knew that she was following him with her eyes and he simply walked into the bedroom, but as soon as he had closed the door he sat down on the bed. Why had she come here, while yesterday she had said that she was married, on a tone that said 'this was the end, and have a nice life', and now she was sitting in his living room. He quickly selected some clothes and threw them on, before going back into the living room. There he found Sarah looking out of the big living room window/terrace door. He walked up to her and put his arms around her waist.

"Why don't you have a drink and then tell me what's bothering you," he said, leading her towards the couch. He quickly went to the kitchen to fetch a bottle of wine and a couple of glasses. He poured two glasses and put one in front of Sarah. Then he sat next to her. "So, tell me," he said, "is there anything wrong?"

"Yes there is," she suddenly said, "you shouldn't have come back in my life, that is wrong."

"Well, I didn't know you were married," Vincenzo said, "but don't worry, I can stay out of your life."

"No you can't," Sarah said, "you've come here."

"But...," Vincenzo started, but she cut him off.

"I still love you, idiot," she said, throwing herself in his arms and kissing him. Vincenzo was startled, but after a while he kissed her back. It was only when she started tugging at his shirt that he broke of the kiss.

"But your husband...," he started.

"He's on his way to Corellia on a business trip," she said, "it will take at least a couple of weeks before he comes back."

"Are you really sure about this," Vincenzo asked. Even though he still loved her, just as she seemed to love him, he didn't want to cause more trouble then it was worth. Even a couple of months ago he wouldn't have cared, but being chased by police forces change your outlook on these things a little.

"No, I'm not sure," Sarah said, wondering why he made things so complicated, "just shut up and kiss me."

Vincenzo wasn't going to argue about that, and did as he was told. She started tugging at his shirt again, and now he did as well with hers. They only broke the kiss to get their shirts out of the way, and with their mouths locked together, their hands started roaming around. Sarah hadn't been wearing a bra, and Vincenzo's hands soon found their way to her breasts.

"You 'christened' your rooms already, Vince" Sarah asked, breaking the kiss.

"Nope," he said.

"Good," she replied, "let's do so now then."

Vincenzo smiled and started undoing her clothes. He would worry about the complications tomorrow.

---

"Making New Friends"
by Talara Sorenne
and Dev

with appearances by: Jae Dyn Brael
and Zari Zathmir

Location: Keeve's Apartment, New Plouton
Date: Selene 21, 5ABY

***

The biggest problem with living on the top floor of a really tall building was that when shopping was finished, it was a long way to haul purchases. With a very full apartment, Kimara had needed to purchase more than her usual amount of groceries from the market down the street, and that meant extra hauling to get it all up and into the kitchen. As Talara Sorenne pulled the last of the bags from the speeder and moved back toward the lift, she was glad that the chore was finally coming to an end.

She, Kim, and Zeezee had taken care of bringing the bags up. They hadn't had enough arms between them to get the last bag, so Tala volunteered to retrieve it. She stepped back into the lift and managed to tap the penthouse button with her forehead. As the lift surged upward, she continued the song she'd been singing. It was a Merrick Braston song, one of the livelier tunes he sang. She'd been begging Kim to go to a show, but there'd been no time. Tala was scared to see Merrick again, but longed for it all the same. She knew he had a new girlfriend, and hoped that they were happy.

The lift stopped, and a boy stepped in. She stopped singing and stepped aside so he could make his floor choice. He pressed the button for the level just below Keeve and Kim's.

The lift started up again, and they rode in silence for a few moments before he said. "You have a very pretty voice. I heard you before the lift arrived."

Talara regarded him, and decided he was probably a couple years older than her. He was taller than her with a thin build and cute face. His dark hair seemed to flop into his eyes, prompting him to occasionally brush it aside. He gave her a smile.

"Thanks," she said. "It's a pretty song."

He nodded. "Braston, right? I think I've heard that playing recently."

"That was probably me," she said sheepishly. She indicated the two illuminated floors. "I live on the level above you."

He laughed. "I meant on the SatLink," he said. "I haven't noticed you playing anything too loud, but I think the floors are pretty thick and soundproofed."

Talara laughed and nodded. "You're lucky for that or you'd have to also listen to Keeve and Kim and the babies."

"I'm Dev, by the way," he said, holding out a hand but then retracted it when he saw her hands occupied holding the bag.

"I'm Talara, but everyone just calls me Tala."

"That's a nice name," he said, and she could tell he was looking at her.

She suddenly felt self-conscious under his gaze. She wore a pair of pants cropped about mid-calf, a thin-strapped top that essentially left her shoulders and arms bare, and a pair of sandals.  With her hair pulled back into a knot at the back of her head, she was sure she must look a mess to him.  Why do you even care? she asked herself, but then decided that she liked the way he was looking. She liked the way he looked interested. Unlike certain other people who can't see that I'm grown up.

"Thanks," she said.

"Grocery day?"

"Yeah, most of it is already in, but there was just this last one," Tala answered. It was then she noticed the slender board he had leaning against his leg. "Oh! You have a hoverboard!"

He laughed. "It's what I was doing outside before coming in," he said. "I figured I should get cleaned up before I get yelled at."

"I've wanted to ride one for so long," she said. "It's been so long since I had a chance."

"You're welcome to join me if you like," he said, his look hopeful.

"I'd like that very much, Dev," she said. "Maybe tomorrow?"

"Drop that stuff off and we can go down now," he answered with a grin.

"What about getting yelled at?" she asked.

"Oh, I've been yelled at before," said Dev. "Besides, how often will I get the chance to go hoverboarding with my pretty neighbour?"

Talara blushed again. "I don't think Kim hoverboards anymore," she said.

"I was talking about you, silly girl," he said.

"Were you?" asked Tala. The chime toned that they'd reached Dev's level, but he didn't move The doors closed again, and up they went. She reached out and took his hand. "Come on, it'll just be a tick while I take this in."

Laughing, he followed her out of the lift as they entered the penthouse. Talara introduced Dev to Kim and Zari, and told him that he might be able to meet Kallia and Keeve later. Zari took the bag from Tala and started putting them away, while Dev explained to Kim that they'd be going down to hoverboard around a bit.

"Just be careful out there," Kim said with a look for Talara.

"I'll be fine," she said. "Don't worry about me. We'll do our workout when I come back, okay, Zee?"

Zari grinned and nodded. "Perfect," she said. "It'll give me a chance to look through the name book again."

With a laugh, Talara pulled Dev back toward the lift.

Once the doors closed, he stared at her. "No way Kim's your mother," he said.

"Nope, she's just my guardian, sort of," said Talara. "I'm from Naboo, and came here on an educational exchange program. Keeve and Kim are watching after me while I'm here, though Keeve is very overprotective. It's a really messed up situation altogether, but I love them more than anything. I'll explain to you sometime when I have it all figured out."

"Do you have a boyfriend?" There was a hopeful, anxious look in his eye, as well as a hesitation at hearing an answer he wouldn't like. The look turned to relief when she told him she'd had one, but they broke up several months ago.

"I just wasn't ready," she told him. "And, he was very pushy. So, we broke up, and now I'm unattached. I thought I still loved him, but I found out that he's a real jerk. Zari's actually pregnant with his baby."

Dev spluttered at the news, then openly gaped at her. "She's-- He-- Wow..."

"It was really bad," said Talara. "After I broke up with him, he took it out on her. She got pregnant."

Dev shook his head and whistled.

"I hope you don't...we're still...it was a bad situation, but we're getting better. If you don't want to hoverboard with me now, I'll understand, Dev."

He recovered quickly. "It's not that, it's just...I mean, how old is she?"

"She's fifteen," Talara answered. "She'll be sixteen soon. I'll be fifteen soon."

"That's a lot of bad poodoo to have to go through," he said. "I'm sorry you had to go through it, both of you."

"That makes three of us." She gave a laugh that held more than a touch of bitterness. "But, it's all lessons learned now."

"Does that mean, you've...you know...with...with guys?"

"It does," Talara answered honestly. "I'm damaged goods."

"Don't say that," Dev said, putting a hand on her shoulder. "You're still an interesting, fun person, and I still want to hoverboard with you. So you've had sex. The world hasn't ended or anything. I still like you."

She smiled. "Thanks. You hardly know me, but thank you. So, have you ever? With a girl?"

Talara couldn't help grinning as he blushed. "Yes," he said. "I guess neither of us is pure as a New Plouton snowfall."

They both laughed as the lift deposited them at ground level, and they raced out toward the park across the street.

---

"Not Your Average Padawan, Part 1"
by: Lani Vissip - Padawan
Various NPCs

Location: Jedi Temple
Date: Selene 21st, 5ABY

***

The serene pool of water was cool on Lani's skin as she lay naked in the water. It was the same pond that she and her new friend Jeron had been to just days ago and ever since then the redhead had spent as much of her free time as possible here. It was a warm day, the sun shining just right, and not a cloud in the sky.

The young padawan she had met only a few days ago was on her mind as she lazily floated. Jeron was strong, handsome, and quick. Not to mention the fact that he loved a good fight and had even managed to strike her on their first bought. With the right training, he could grow to be an extremely deadly opponent. Lani sighed and dove under the water. Why was she thinking about him at all? Especially since many of her thoughts would never be considered chaste even by some of the whores in Thanatos. Just weeks gone from a man she thought she loved and already she was culling the herd looking for a new....

Danger.

The thought flashed across her mind like a bolt of black lightning. Honed instinct took over and she banished all confusing thoughts from her head. It was time to be clear in her actions. The reeds along the side of the pond would provide good cover.

Lani's head broke the surface of the water slowly, her eyes scanning the banks of the pond for any sign of what triggered the danger sense. Breath control was difficult to begin with and even harder with adrenaline pumping through your system. Just as Lani thought she was going to burst from the anticipation, as well as from her lungs from holding her breath too long, three figures in black carapace armor came out of the underbrush. They looked human, as much as one could wearing bulky combat armor, and she could hear them talking amongst each other as well as over their radio circuits. Stealth was obviously not on their agenda.

"Charlie Six this is King Six, negative movement in sector twelve."

"This is Delta Four, I've got a runner. Looks like one of the students."

"Take them down softly, we need one for questioning."

Gods above! Lani hoped it wasn't one of the younglings or the younger padawans but one who could take care of themselves. The three figures had their blaster rifles drawn and were doing a professional sweep of the pond's bank. But like many soldiers, they had already swept behind them and so felt no reason to turn around.

Lani emerged from the water silently using slow, deliberate movements. Without looking she snatched a fist sized rock from the ground before ducking into the underbrush. The thick leaves of the bushes that were growing around the water would be perfect cover. The rock went sailing and thudded on the sand with just enough impact to register as something large by the three soldiers.

"What's that?"

"Go check it out."

The shorter of the three broke off, walking quickly to the site of the rock's impact. "Nothing he...URRRK!!" It's very hard to talk with one's esophagus crushed. Lani had jabbed her fingers underneath the soldier's helmet at just the precise angle and strength needed to pulp cartilage. The body collapsed twitching to the ground as the other two soldiers spun, looking for the source of the sound. Lani had already ducked back into the foliage.

"Looks like King Two."

"What the fuck? I didn't hear anything else."

They walked so close to her she probably could have licked one. Naked and unarmed, Lani wasn't sure she could deal with both of these soldiers at the same time. Her one chance at a distraction had been used. Once she was able to get to her clothing, and her concealed daggers, the playing field would be equal.

"This is Delta Four, that runner is..." the transmission ended in a scream and a burst of static. Electrocuted? Perhaps the student they had been chasing had a stunner on them. It didn't matter, for it wasn't the here and now. Both of the black-armored men standing on the beach had looked over their shoulders into the forest. Perfect.

The two troopers were definitely not expecting a very nude woman to burst out of the bushes. Nor were they expecting her to wrap her legs around on of their heads. It wasn't until the sound of bone breaking did the older of the two men, who thought his buddy was just getting a show, realize that this amazon intended to kill them. His blaster rifle didn't even get a chance to be brought to bear as Lani ripped out the first soldier's combat knife and drove it under the helmet of the elder. Hot blood flooded down her hand as the man burbled, twitched, and died.

A few minutes later Lani was dressed and flashing through the forest with Force enhanced speed. Since she had shown a knack for the most physical Force applications, and had in fact used them a time or two without realizing it, Master Darr had already shown her how to do this simple trick. Simple, but one of the base powers that Jedi used all the time to survive.

At the edge of the forest she noticed an black-armored trooper wrapped in a stun net. She skidded to a halt, breathing hard, next to the fallen man and watched as a shuttle took off from the temple grounds. It had to be the Jedi Masters, getting the younglings and other padawans to safety. That they left her didn't matter, she could survive on her own. It would be better if this was like Hoth, where she still had members of the SpecOps team she had helped train there.

But it was still time to act. There were many valuable things in the Jedi Temple that simply couldn't let the palace troops get their hands on. If she had to, she would wait here in the forest, silently removing any and all intruders until at last they failed to come around.

What but had happened? Who were those troopers? The armor looked familiar but Lani just couldn't place it. Were they mercenaries or an invading force? Information was vital at this stage of survival, but first she had to eliminate the threat.

---

"Quick Escape"
By Jeron Kes-Allia - Jedi Padawan
And Gideon Kherris - Jedi Master

Location: New Plouton
Date: Selene 21, 4 ABY

***

For over an hour the two walked among the angry and confused citizens of new Plouton, making their way towards the outskirts of the city on their way to Thanatos. Gideon would acquire transportation for the trip into Thanatos, but for the time being he had wanted to immerse himself in the mood of the city and to keep an ear on the media. Neither men were dressed as Jedi; Gideon rarely dressed as such so it wasn't so much a matter of luck - but of coincidence.

He overheard all manner of opinion, ranging in varying depths on the spectrum. It disappointed him to some degree, only serving to show that the new generation of Jedi had a long way to go in their revival - but that people in general had much further to go themselves.

Gideon spotted a speeder taxi up ahead. The driver was enjoying a break, shoveling his mouth with food by the four hands of his four arms.

"Hello there," Gideon greeted the Xexto.

"Looking for ride?" the Xexto said with a full mouth.

"That would be very nice, yes. How much to Thanatos?"

"Ugh, no good. Cost extra. Dangerous."

"That is fine," Gideon said, having expected as much.

He could have easily used a subtle suggestion to acquire a free ride, even though the current situation was less than optimal he and Jeron were not in immediate danger. And the Xexto needed to make his living. Gideon produced a few local coins, asking if it would cover the trip with a tip. The Xexto quickly threw down his remaining food and nodded eagerly, opening the doors for Gideon and Jeron. More than enough, Gideon thought as he had yet to learn the currency exchange between the common credits and the local values. He didn't mind, it was only money.

A man ran up to the taxi, rudely trying to cut in on Gideon's side. "Hey driver, 209th and Royale Boulevard."

"That on other side of city, I have fare," the Xexto said. "Go other side of city. You wait for next cab, ok?"

The man looked unbelieving at the driver and then to Gideon and Jeron. "You can't refuse a fare!"

"They first!" the Xexto enforced.

Not wanting a scene, Gideon offered to take another ride.

As the man pulled his brief case in after him, it displaced a length of Gideon's jacket, revealing a metallic cylinder.

"Well I'll be..." the man gasped as he saw the object hooked to Gideon's belt. By this time, of course, a small on looking crowd had developed from the exchange just a moment before. Before Gideon could react the man lurched up and yelled, "Jedi! He's a Jedi! Call the authorities!" as he shot a judgmental finger in the direction of Gideon and Jeron.

"Do we still get our ride?" Gideon asked the Xexto.

He seemed to be thinking about it, weighing the credits or the possibility of providing a getaway to two fugitives. Gideon didn't wait for an answer.

"We're leaving, now," he emphasized with a push from the Force.

"Ok, yes we go now," the Xexto replied as he got into the driver seat.

Jeron moved behind Gideon as the Jedi Master got into the vehicle, while the other man moved back out, perhaps out of fear of what would happen if he didn't. As Jeron himself was about to get in, someone brushed his path from amidst the crowd. Jeron didn't have to wait to realize that it was some sort of law enforcement agent who sported a blaster rifle in hand. Jeron stepped back towards the crowd and grabbed the nozzle of the blaster rifle as the man made it just past the crowd assembled there.

With a swift punch, Jeron succeeded in striking the guard down to the ground, while taking his blaster rifle from his hands. He then made a loud noise, one of the infamous Tusken cries of war, and jumped into the taxi. There was no need to tell the driver to get on the move. Alas, they were already being followed by another law agent on board a swoop bike. The former Tusken raider still had the blaster rifle with him, so he turned to the Xexto.

"Don't stop," Jeron told him simply. He then leaned out a window and positioned his blaster rifle. The swoop fired a couple of times but missed the taxi. Jeron, on the other hand, had had much training back in Tatooine when it came to shooting down objects that were in motion. Many times he had fired upon humans who would try to kill Tuskens, or even at some podracers who would pass through Tusken sacred land, desecrating it. He could almost see the shot before he even pressed the trigger. He aimed for a lower joint part, which he knew would cause minimal damage while stopping the swoop. Something that training had provided him with, so that they could salvage parts afterwards.

Finally alone and free, Jeron sat back and sighted. "I think we are safe... For now."

---

"Many are the Miles"
by Mies Aune (NPC+)
Fiamas Phade (NPC)
Kallabow (NPC)

Location: Drogen Shipyards
Date: Selene 21, 5 ABY

***

The old and rusted freighter drifted along the sea of stars slowly, its hull pockmarked with the signs of age. The paneling showed that the ship had seen much in its service and was in dire need of being soon refitted. Several ships could be seen departing and entering orbit as they went by going about their day-to-day businesses. Two individuals watched from within the freighter as the Drogen Shipyards loomed closer.

The taller male individual leaned forward on the headrest of the pilot's seat with his hand, his green eyes scanning their surroundings carefully. Before him in the pilot's seat sat a young auburn haired woman, her long hair tucked back behind her ears in a loose low slung ponytail.

"You're putting yourself at an awful big risk doing something like this for me you know Fiamas." The redhead named Fiamas drew her lips tight, her hands gliding smoothly over the control panel.

"I owe you more then a few favors don't I Mies? The least I can do is help you find *her*, at the very least it'll shut you up." She replied a slight smirk crossing her lips.

"You don't really mean that Fia, besides I'd think you go insane first talking to fuzzy over here the rest of your days." He stated gesturing to the long limbed female Wookie helping Fiamas copilot the ship.

At his remark, the Wookie growled loudly expressing her disagreement.

"Don't worry Kall I'm sure he didn't really mean it, besides look at it this way we'll soon be rid of him and his bellyaching." Fiamas quipped glancing over to her lanky friend who rumbled an approving howl in agreement.

"Bellyaching? I'll have you know that." Before Mies could finish, he felt the ship lurch forward as they approached the landing platform. With a practiced ease, Fiamas guided the ship smoothly, taking great care as she lowered the old freighter downwards. The landing gear groaned in protest as the legs of the ship swung into position soon afterwards followed by a loud dull thunking noise as they made contact with the platform.

"We're here." Fiamas commented rising out of her chair. "And thankfully in one piece still." Mies quipped.

Fiamas ignored his remark and turned to Kallabow, "Go look over the cargo, I'll be along shortly." Kallabow growled lowly as she stood. For once the cargo they were transporting was not that of the kind which would warrant unwanted eyes, how she and Kallabow got talked into it Fiamas would still never quite figure out, but the next thing she knew they were lugging along a few containers worth of full of dried fish. Still these days money was money no matter how odd the job.

She watched as Mies stood quietly, his face appearing otherwise expressionless before he finally turned and followed behind the Wookie before stopping at a small room that was his sleeping area for the trip. Stepping inside the room Mies walked over to a single cot that sat tucked away in the corner, the blankets neatly made and folded. Kneeling he reached under the cot grabbing an empty duffel bag which he began filling with the various items he had kept in the room.

As he gathered his belongings, he paused stopping as his hands passed over a small data pad containing a picture of him and his sisters Sinikka and Mielikki in their youth. He held the pad tenderly, his fingers lightly tracing their faces. That was a happier time for all of them, a time free of war and hardships. He couldn't help but wonder if being led here was a sign of good fortune smiling down at him for once or if he was doomed to again continue chasing shadows. He barely looked up knowing that Fiamas had been standing at the doorway watching him silently.

She knelt beside him touching a hand to his shoulder, "Mies?" He shook his head pocketing the pad in his back pocket as he returned to his packing. "I'm okay, just recalling a time long since past." He muttered more to himself than anyone else. Freezing he felt her arms wrap around his shoulders as she held him close. "Just remember, Mies you know where to find me if you ever need my help. I mean that." He wrapped an arm around her shoulder returning the embrace and nodded, closing his eyes. "I know Fia, I know."

The pair released each other from the embrace and Mies grabbed the now overstuffed duffel bag slinging it over one shoulder, afterwards he then grabbed a smaller knapsack holding his tools and slung it over his other shoulder.

"Take care of yourself Fiamas." He stated touching a hand to his friend's shoulder before he stood to his full height. Fiamas stood watching as Mies walked through the doorway a heavy burden on his heart and mind as he left her ship. "I will Mies don't worry, just you remember to take care of yourself."

***

Walking down the main corridor of one of the station's many levels, Mies let his eyes wander about aimlessly, drinking in his surroundings. Taking care to walk with a casual air as he did so as to not draw any unwanted to himself, Mies noted that the shipyards seemed to serve as a central hub of sorts. All around him aliens and species of various origins conducted their businesses with one another, each more strange and exotic looking than the next.

Looking up he noticed a sign marked in Huttese "Hostel Tardocca". Stepping inside the establishment Mies spotted a large heavyset four armed alien sitting behind a desk. The creature was multitasking, typing away at a panel with one set of limbs while the other held up a sandwich just as bizarre as the alien himself. He looked up noticing Mies enter.

"Can I help you?"

Stepping up to the desk Mies nodded. "I need a room."

The creature took a large bite of his sandwich and spoke around a mouthful of food, "Howsh long yoush planning tuh stay fur?"

"To be honest, I'm not altogether certain of that myself." Mies remarked scratching behind his neck.

Belching loudly the creature laughed slapping a hand down on the counter. "AHA! Another permanent resident I see!! I should probably turn this place into a condominium what with all my visitors becoming permanent fixtures." He added grinning.

Mies couldn't help but crack a smile; he had humor this alien he had to at least give him that. "So do you have anything available?" Mies asked again his tone taking on a serious nature.

Chewing his food carefully as though contemplating that thought, the owner gulped down another mouthful of his sandwich before speaking again. "Availability is not a problem, it's more the matter of if you can or cannot supply the hard cash for one. Rooms usually run about 3,000 credits a night but if you're like one of our longer term residents I charge a fee of 7,000 credits each month. Boarding fee is 10,000 creds even, how much do you have?" He asked reclining in his seat. Dumping the contents of a leather pouch onto the counter Mies swept a hand across his funds, "Here you are all 11,345 credits. What I can't pay you now I will pay back to you in double the amount once I have acquired a means of replenishing my funds."

The large alien looked down at the credits and then at the young Veaseph sighing. "Times are tough, normally I wouldn't so much as take what you have then just as soon throw you out, but you seem like an honest sort, and that in itself is a rarity these days. You have yourself a deal my good man."

"Thank you sir."

Hopping off his chair the alien dusted both sets of hands off on his clothing. "Think nothing of it, and just for the record call me Tar, sir is far too formal even for this old fool." He then added as an afterthought, "And just between you and me don't go telling everyone on the block about my new discount rates yah?" He added chuckling.

Mies smiled. "No worries your secret is safe with me."

"Come I'll show you where you'll be staying."

---